In this edition we take you to the heights of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, a UNESCO world Heritage Site brimming with Spanish colonial architecture and friendly people. We also join the Andean cowboys, at the annual rodeo of Hacienda el Tambo, on the volcano.
Joining the chagras on horseback, to ride into the mountains and round up the hacienda’s cattle. It’s quite a spectacle, to say the least. Hundreds of cows, calves and wild bulls storm down the slopes, surrounded by howling, lasso-wielding chagras. It was an absolute privilege to witness this fading tradition. Small-scale tourism can really make a difference in keeping the chagra culture alive.’
When you make a long journey, having a big bag is pretty convenient. The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP34 has no less than 106 litres of content. More than enough for all your stuff and for souvenirs to take back. But that’s not what makes this safe-like roller case so unique. This is a bag that can’t just be opened or stolen. Equipped with 360° eXomesh, a steel cage in the material can’t be cut open. There are potent locks on it. It is reinforced with Dyneema, the lightest and strongest material in the world (15x stronger than steel, but floats on water). And there’s a steel cable in it that allows you to secure the bag. It's probably the very best roller case on the market. € 349,-
It may be quite an expense, but the Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket is very strong and ultra-functional and in the first decade, you certainly don’t have to buy another raincoat. This super lightweight jacket protects excellently. It is made with Gore-Tex Active, a waterproof membrane that not only ensures that the water doesn’t get through it but also keeps you dry under your coat because your sweat can escape. € 330,-
When travelling to Great Britain, some people forget that the power outlets differ from those in their own country. This sucks because when you finally hit your hotel, you will not be able to charge your devices. The WakaWaka World Charger fixes that problem because it fits the different electrical outlets of One hundred fifty countries worldwide. This is the perfect charger for a world traveller to ensure power and connectivity wherever you go.
As someone who has had the pleasure of traveling to Quito, Ecuador, I can confidently say that it is a destination that should not be missed. This city, situated high in the Andes mountains, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is truly unforgettable.
One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, ornate churches, and charming plazas. It’s easy to spend hours wandering through the streets, soaking up the atmosphere and admiring the architecture.
But what came next was one of the most exhilarating adventures I’ve ever done. Riding on horseback with writer Barbera Bosma, chasing the Andean cowboys, rounding up the wild roaming cattle on the flanks of a volcano. Dodging angry bulls, during the rodeo, that had never been caught before, being splattered by the mud of the chagra horses. Check out this story about the preservation of chagra culture and how you can support it.
Whether you’re a history buff, just want to sniff culture, or if you want to have the adrenaline ride of a lifetime, Quito and the rodeo of El Tambo should be on the bucket list of any adventurer!
Let the best storytellers work their magic for you and share your story with over 180,000 English, Spanish, German and Dutch speaking travel enthusiasts from all over the world.
For more information visit WideOyster Creative or send an email to letstalk@wideoyster.com
Hacienda El Porvenir by Tierra del Volcan is set in a traditional Andean house with adobe walls and thatched roofs. There is a restaurant, and breakfast is included. Cotopaxi national Park is 4 km away.
With parquet floors and large windows, rooms at El Porvenir are very bright. All of them have private bathrooms.
Breakfast including bread, cheese, jam, fruits, eggs, juice, coffee, tea, milk and chocolate is served daily.
Guests can ride horses and bikes to explore the surroundings. Activities not included on the price.
Hacienda El Porvenir by Tierra del Volcan is a 35-minute drive from Machachi city and 1.45 hours from Mariscal sucre Airport in Quito, by car.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Casa Centro is one of the finest examples of a fully restored colonial house in Quito's historic centre. Its history dates back to the 1700s, and preserves its roots with a central patio, street balconies, and spacious rooms, but also, has been re-furnished by one of the best architects in town, equipping it with cutting-edge technology, offering luxury comfort and security of a modern house. It has one of the finest private local art collections in the country, with some iconic paintings from the most renowned artists in Ecuador. Casa Centro has four rooms and a capacity for up to 14 people, different social spaces, a dining room, a central patio, a small wine cellar, and breathtaking views of the historic downtown.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Our team has explored nearly every corner of the world. We've uncovered the most mind-blowing experiences and know exactly when and where to go for that once-in-a-lifetime journey, that epic adventure you've been dreaming about, or that unique family getaway no one else is doing.
Curious what we would recommend based on your deepest travel desires? Drop us a line, and let’s start discussing that once-in-a-lifetime bespoke itinerary that fits you like a soft leather glove.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Hacienda El Porvenir by Tierra del Volcan is set in a traditional Andean house with adobe walls and thatched roofs. There is a restaurant, and breakfast is included. Cotopaxi national Park is 4 km away.
With parquet floors and large windows, rooms at El Porvenir are very bright. All of them have private bathrooms.
Breakfast including bread, cheese, jam, fruits, eggs, juice, coffee, tea, milk and chocolate is served daily.
Guests can ride horses and bikes to explore the surroundings. Activities not included on the price.
Hacienda El Porvenir by Tierra del Volcan is a 35-minute drive from Machachi city and 1.45 hours from Mariscal sucre Airport in Quito, by car.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Casa Centro is one of the finest examples of a fully restored colonial house in Quito's historic centre. Its history dates back to the 1700s, and preserves its roots with a central patio, street balconies, and spacious rooms, but also, has been re-furnished by one of the best architects in town, equipping it with cutting-edge technology, offering luxury comfort and security of a modern house. It has one of the finest private local art collections in the country, with some iconic paintings from the most renowned artists in Ecuador. Casa Centro has four rooms and a capacity for up to 14 people, different social spaces, a dining room, a central patio, a small wine cellar, and breathtaking views of the historic downtown.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Our team has explored nearly every corner of the world. We've uncovered the most mind-blowing experiences and know exactly when and where to go for that once-in-a-lifetime journey, that epic adventure you've been dreaming about, or that unique family getaway no one else is doing.
Curious what we would recommend based on your deepest travel desires? Drop us a line, and let’s start discussing that once-in-a-lifetime bespoke itinerary that fits you like a soft leather glove.
We know where to go. We know the best places to stay. And we know the local partners who turn a trip into something unforgettable. That’s why when we design your journey, it isn’t just a holiday. It’s a story you’ll carry for life.
Our mission is simple: to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and respect. To connect with cultures, to marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and to embrace the beauty of untamed nature.
So, tell us — what once-in-a-lifetime adventure may we design for you?
Let the best storytellers work their magic for you and share your story with over 180,000 English, Spanish, German and Dutch speaking travel enthusiasts from all over the world.
For more information visit WideOyster Creative or send an email to letstalk@wideoyster.com
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