Quito and more.

Quito is the capital of Ecuador, 2nd largest city in the country.  A mere 40 minute plane ride from Cuenca, where we live.
We were advised to go there, by our lawyer, to finish our paperwork for our Cedula's which will allow us to become residents of Ecuador and take part in the benefits of being over 65 years old.  Namely, a 50% discount on travel, electric and water bills and tax rebate.
Boarding and landing are done outside in Cuenca and sometimes with a jetway in Quito.          

First impression of Quito?  Big! Ecuador's New York City.

The traffic is horrendous - A new roadway was just opened that cuts the travel time from 1.5hrs to 1/2hr from Airport to Quito

Beautiful Hotel with bedroom, great room and bath.

Scenes from "new" city vs. old city below

Large bike lanes - pick up a bike (free) at one end of the road and return it at the other.

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All kinds of traffic.

We decided to stop at an outside café for an afternoon treat.

Love that chocolate/coffee

Next to where we were sitting, a fellow was repairing the awning (with duck tape).

Nice, even, walkways.

 Part of a city view - it's so large and goes on forever .......

More of Quito

Quito city streets

Most if not all of the walls around new construction had art work rather than graffiti  

On Sunday, Quito closes a few downtown streets for bike riding

Old Town Cathedral

 Old Quito

Very, very narrow streets 

Plaza

Clearly visible from the historic center of Quito is the 150ft. high winged madonna statue called the VIRGIN DE QUITO.  It is made of thousands of individual aluminum pieces.

The Virgin is standing on top of a globe under her feet is a dragon representing the devil in chains.

All the stops on our bus tour.

A meeting place on Sunday morning - in front of the cathedral .

More street scenes.

Shared dinner at Italian restaurant

We joined the 'clean plate club'

More to come of our Quito trip.