I have lived part of my life in Montanita and Manglaralto and all I can say is, that is the best place to be and to encounter new people from all parts of the world, so remember to go there for sure, you'll love it.
Montanita is heaven in Ecuador. From New York to Montanita is a dream visit. Montanita is charm.
Montanita was a haze to me, just pure carnage at night, getting absolutely f***ed on all sorts of intoxicating substances. I couldn't leave for about two weeks. I spent about a month there, and am definitely going back when I can next afford it.
Love the city. Full of life, friendly people and very cheap. The U.S. dollar goes a long way there. Been there with my wife to visit her family five times and was also married there. Make sure you visit the Malecon 2000, which is a large waterfront park located on the Guayas river in the downtown area. Lots of tropical plants and flowers and original jungle trees wihch date back to before the city was founded (our wedding portraits were taken in this park). Also visit the small chapel and lighthouse at the top of the Santa Anna hill in the Old Guayaquil section for spectacular views of the city. Lots of shopping and dining. Visit the Mall Del Sol which is a large American-style shopping center located in a very nice area across the street from the Sheraton Hotel and five to ten minutes from the airport and downtown. Don't carry lots of cash because you won't need it.You can find bargains anywhere except the for the malls. Artesanal is a good place to bargain shop for souvenirs…
Baños … We found that Banos was the high spot on our vist to Ecuador.
Ahhhh Montanita sometimes I wonder if this magical town actually existed in my travels. Mostly it's just a blur of laughter, many sunrises, after dancing the night away, and did someone say hammocks? Best place to spend New Year's Eve on the planet! Be sure to get yourself a hookah at Alibabars.
Montanita is great. Go there and relax on the beach all day (or surf) and then party all night.
A Crazy place with the best nightlife in Ecuador. I wanted to go there for a week and ended up there for 2 years! Go to the next town down called Olon to watch the sunset and then make your way back down the hill to Montanita to sip cocktails and start the party!
Montanita is an amazing coastal city in Ecuador. Being a straight up city-slicker from Chicago, it is an amazing get-away to escape to. Be prepared to have fun and stay in your budget!!
I came for a few days and ended up travelling back from Buenos Aires just to live there. I stayed for 5 months - worked at a surf hotel and met cool people. Montanita is amazing, don't miss it! Lots of parties. Oh yes... I killed many brain cells there - and got chlamydia...
I had a great time in Baños. Plenty of restaurants and bars, cheap clean hotels (as low as $4 per night), lots of outdoor activity. Been there twice and going again next year. I recommend it for anyone.
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