Montanita

We had 2 1/2 days in Guayaquil.  That is really too much time.  So since we were close to the coast we decided to go to the beach.  It is possible to take a bus but it was very easy and not overly expensive to take a taxi.  Plus having a driver is great because you can learn about the local customs and people by speaking with him.  At our hotel, they found us a taxi and we were on our way. 

It took about an hour to get there.  There are closer beaches but I heard this one was the most interesting.  We arrived in the town and walked through the shopping area.

Here is where we bought a hat for our son.  Maybe the woman didn't want her picture taken.


Next we ate lunch.  John was amazed at the size of the shrimp.  I had the most delicious ceviche I have ever eaten in my life.

After lunch, our taxi driver took us to the studio of an artist.  We looked at his carvings but didn't buy any as they were big and we don't know how we would get them home on the plane.  He was from Argentina and had come to Montanita and simply stayed.

Now it was time to go to the beach.  We didn't swim because we weren't staying very long but I did wade.  The water was very beautiful.  Next time I would stay one night in Montanita and go swimming.

Here I am speaking with our driver Alfonso.

Montanita is famous for surfing. 

Then it was time to go back.  We didn't get too sunburned.

So here is traffic back in Guayaquil.