Guayaquil - A Thriving River-Port City
The largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is a busy river and seaport city. It is generally considered to be the economic capital of Ecuador and the thriving entrepreneurial spirit of its people give evidence to this fact. Not only is this city located on the coast, but it is also the center of activity for the Lower Guayas Basin – a fertile valley that has a large agricultural yield. Guayaquil is also the perfect place to start your Ecuadorian adventures as it allows for easy travel through the rest of the country. If you are planning to travel, you might be tempted by the exotic flowers and fruits of Ambato, enjoy the beaches of Playas, Banos and Salinas, or head towards the Amazon Rain Forest – all are within easy reach of Guayaquil. And to top it off, the Galapagos Islands are only a two hour flight from Guayaquil.
While many choose to use Guayaquil as a stopover on their way into Ecuador, the city has quite a bit to offer. Besides historical attractions, museums and archeological ruins, there are a number of reserves on the outskirts that offer ecotourism opportunities. The promenade along the Guayas River makes for a great afternoon stroll. If you're looking for a different way of dining, try one of the restaurant boats bobbing on the Guayas river in the Las Peñas district which offer great seafood. From the deck of the boat you'll be able to watch boats of all kinds – from sea-going vessels to dugout canoes. Fishing trawlers and banana peddlers also make use of these waters.
Also quite interesting is the Church of Santo Domingo and the Cathedral, which were both built in the 1400s. The Church of Santo Domingo houses a water fountain that is said to have restorative properties and the Cathedral boasts beautiful stained glass windows. The Parque Del Centenario is roughly four blocks big and displays a number of monuments that will further educate you as to the city's history. If you'd prefer to head outdoors, the Parque Bolivar is a wonderful botanical garden where you will find turtles and iguanas that have made their homes here.
Guayaquil hotels are usually quite clean and neat and are generally within easy reach of the airport. October is the city's fiesta period and, if you are here during this time, you will likely enjoy taking part in the festivities. There is a lot more to Guayaquil that you will only discover if you take the time to explore the city for yourself.
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User Comments & Reviews
2010-07-22 20:48:00
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2010-07-02 07:35:40
I am a late baby boomer and through a recent divorce and the general dowturn in our US economy. I now find myselfelf anxious at what I may be facing retiring in the US. My once fairly robust savings have dwindled - as I'm sure many readers can relate to. While I still have investment properties here, some cash and a reasonable IRA my lack of faith that politicians will ever agian get it right is leading me to an early retirement in an affordable, safe yet energized countty. I mentioned retirement but as an entrepreneur my entire life I'm certain I will be looking for some type of opportunity to invest in a promising enterprise. With that said I enjoy playing golf, have been an avid scuba diver as well as travelled to many countries although not yet Ecuador. I am planning a trip in August or Septemeber. Would appreciate any advice from anyone reading my post that may be able to point me in the right diection. If you live or will be in Equador while I am visiting I would truly appreciate the chance that we may meet for coffee or dinner, With Regards, Shane
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2010-06-27 14:11:24
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2010-06-17 02:19:10
I am from ecuador i recommended is a beautiful country. i love i am proud is the best country.
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2010-06-10 19:22:22
I am Canadian and I came back from my vacation last week. I visited Quito, Cuenca and Cotachachi. What a wonderful country. The people are (still) honest and friendly; the food is good and if we try not to kill the economy with our "American Values", we may have and hopefully keep a affordable place in the sun. Please help to keep this country honest and clean. I hope to go back very soon.
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2010-06-06 19:49:10
My country. Is prety and wondefull
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2010-06-01 02:30:46
I'm considering moving to Ecuador to work as a teacher (TESL). Is there any demand for my service? Should I look at Quito or Guayaquil?
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2010-02-27 18:37:18
I was born in Ecuador.but was raised in U.S.A I left when I was 8yrs. old but I have gone back afew time with my mom and know that Iam older I wish I could go back again it is a beautiful place, the people are very friendly and the food is great and the beaches are great and so clear.
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2010-02-14 19:21:13
august 10,1980 Iwas in Guayquil and you had a 7.1 EQ. why was this date not published in earthquake data around the world? Date I found was August 18? am I loco? canada
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2010-02-09 21:13:48
hey there yes there is a country-golf club in cities like Guayquil and Quito and I also think they have one in Salinas beach...all you need is a valid Passport and dollars..lol
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