Quito or bust

It is 20 years since I was last in Quito.  I remember it being hilly but I don't recall it being as hilly as it is and it was certainly not where we were staying 20 years ago.  This was taken from the van in the transfer from the airport. so not the best of photos but it will give you a feel for the place.   

If my directions are correct we are staying not far from that white tower which is the steeple of the church (I think).  My bearings could be completely off of course as we have been up since 3 am.  What in the world our agent was thinking of putting us on a 5.30am flight from Santiago.  We had to change in Lima so the flight took a little longer.  Still we have arrived safely and are right in the heart of the old part of Quito. 

What has struck me is the very colonial Spanish buildings, lots of people out and about and lots of street sellers.  We had a thunderstorm this afternoon and I thought we were having an earthquake.  It was very close.  It's a wonder the huge BVM overlooking the city wasn't struck. 

We have been out and had dinner at a local restaurant.  There was something happening in the Plaza (don't know which one).  Lots of police out and about and also this small fire engine came blazing up, stopped and a fireman and firewoman got out and moved some motor bikes and it carried on blazing up the narrow streets.

There is wifi at the hotel so I am able to upload this but from tomorrow I will be off the air.  I know I said that yesterday so I really really mean it this time, hasta luego blippereros.