Hi. How are you? Ecuador is so much fun. There are a lot of things to see. But one thing is it is very hot. Make sure you bring shorts, shirts, skirts, sunglasses, suntan lotion, sandals, and other necessary clothes you think is good for summer days. I forgot to tell you but sometimes it could be very cold so bring sweaters, pants, or sweatpants. I have to warn you but it rains very hard so I suggest that you bring a few raincoats, or boots in case of the mud. One bad thing is that it doesn't snow in Ecuador. None of the South American countries snow.

I have chosen a city us to live in. It is Cuenca. It is very beautiful. I have chosen Cuenca for many reasons. It has beautiful buildings and markets. It also has a beautiful church. It is open Saturday and Sunday. Like in America. Markets are open everyday but the big markets are open every Sunday in the center of Cuenca. I was amazed, because the things they make are homemade. Quito is the capital of Ecuador. It is very beautiful too.

You will be landing there about at 7:00 A.M. Be sure to have your passport on your hand and your ticket that let you in Ecuador. When you are in Quito and they have checked your passport and ticket, and you are waiting for the next plane be sure to be careful for pickpockets, and muggings. They are often armed with guns or knives, especially in the cities of Quito and Guayaquil.

The food is delicious but food and eating habits play in important part in Ecuadorian culture. Every holiday is associated with a special kind of food and eating and every town has a specialty dish. Mealtime is considered a food time for conversation, catching up, conducting business or socializing. When invited a guest to a restaurant, the host is expected to pay for the meal. Ecuadorians love corn, potatoes, rice, beans, and bananas.

Spanish is the main language; some words are Buenos Dias! (Good Day, or Como Esta! (How are you), Hola! (Hello) and Como has pasado? A los tiempos que nos vemos. (How have you been? It's been a long time and many more words.

Yawning in public, whistling, or yelling a name to get someone's attention, or pointing with the index finger are considered impolite here. Now it is time for be to say good-bye. I hope you arrive safely. Remember to be careful.

Sincerely,

Diana