(Monday, August 16, Day 56)

"The contents of this website are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps."

Phrase of the day: Estas seguro que no podemos estar aqui por nuestros dos anos?... Are you sure that we can't stay here for our two years?

Last night we arrived in Quito.
I realized that this is definitley the Ecuador I wanted to see! Definitely not all of it by any means... as 4 more trainees have been mugged here already. But I like the old parts of town, which remind me of Europe.
Don't let the muggings deter you from visiting ever, but do know that the State Department deems Quito as "Critical" when it comes to security for US Citizens. We had a wicked talk from the head of security from the US Embassy here. He was definitely a Marine; crazy as ever. The trainees have really just had bad luck in my opinion. They stand out with their blue eyes and lighter hair. (See Willy, aren't you glad you don't have blue eyes now?) I do stand out being Inidan, but I think I've been okay because who would mess with me!?! Just kidding! I am always on my toes.

Hopefully I didn't scare you. I'd love to see you here! This place is just like anywhere else, you just have to know when to go where, which I am learning. I am hoping to scope out all of the good spots in this country in case any of you do have time! The Mariscal is a really happening district with tons of restaurants and a great nightlife. All of the tourists do go there, so you have to be on your toes for thieves. Last night we went to a Mexican restaurant there called Red Hot Chili Peppers (thankfully they were playing some Stadium Arcadium, or else we would have had some issues). I especially like downtown, where the government buildings are.

This is some super old church filled with gold. I couldn't take pictures inside, but we can pretend I did!

Tomorrow we have more sessions at the headquarters, and then on Wednesday we swear in.

Hope all is well back home!

As for Cayambe, I will definitely return at some point. My host family there mentioned how all of their past trainees said they would visit, and never did. Naturally I can't let that happen again. (Plus I want some pie in Otavalo!)