Culture Shock? Embrace the Adventure when Traveling in Ecuador
As someone who has looked back on my introduction to Ecuador and compared it to a Jackson Pollack painting, I understand traveler’s initial immersion into the country.
Splashes of color and disjointed movements catch you off guard-leaving one wondering how things work in the small Andean nation. Keep reading for a few ways to relax and enjoy the ride while traveling in Ecuador.
Look Up the Locals
While at first glance after getting off the plane Quito is confusing, the city is organized and developing quickly to accommodate international travelers. There is also a large expat population-many of whom work in tourism and can help you avoid the bumps in the road.
In addition to the online forums, Facebook groups, and sites like International Living, there are local favorite spots for sitting down for a meal at the end of the day.
These places and the people who work there are often the most up-to-date sources for information about travel in the country. The guides, teachers, backpackers, and hostels, travel agency, and restaurant owners that frequent the establishments travel often and can give you insights about traveling in Ecuador before you set off.
Learn Some Spanish
Having a working vocabulary and a basic knowledge of the Spanish language not only takes the edge off of the language barrier but can lead to new, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The Ecuadorian people are known for their friendliness travelers. They have an inquisitive, disarming curiosity about the visitors to their country-one that often comes out when you are fumbling for words and verb tenses to respond to questions!
Spanish classes are offered in-country for all levels of pupils. For travelers, short day or week-long classes include field trips to practice firsthand and tailor-made lesson plans geared toward helping during your journeys with a lexicon that focuses on your plans.
Traveling in Ecuador – Let Go of Preconceived Notions
Ecuador and Latin America are incredible places to visit that are often shrouded by a cloud of uncertainty. European and North American nations don’t really cover events here unless they deal with a natural disaster, volcano eruption, a criminal bust, or political upheaval. While these things do happen from time to time, Ecuador’s culture revolves around a flexible attitude towards life.
Festivals, parades, concerts, markets, and firework displays erupt at a moment’s notice. A far cry from the media reports of other countries-the people here celebrate living and enjoy showing people why.
Explore as Much as Possible
Culture shock can have an isolating effect. Traveling in Ecuador, facing the language barrier, and hearing stories from others on the road or who live here can lead to intimidating conclusions.
While the initial shock can leave you reeling-after visiting a few different parts of the country the pieces start to fit into place. The people and cultures of the coast have their own traditions, and the same goes for the other three regions of the country. The more of the country you can cover during your time here, the further your understanding and appreciation of the nation grows.
Happy Gringo Travel’s staff and founders are all avid travelers and understand the challenges of traveling in Ecuador. Our trips are designed to give you a well-rounded perspective of the country-while offering guides, help with places to stay, and transportation. For more information about how we can help, contact a member of our team through Skype, this site, or our toll-free numbers.
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