ECUADOR
A unique landscape awaits visitors as Ecuador hosts warm sunny beaches of the Pacific, impressive mountain villages in the Andes, Amazon rain forests, and the world’s great ecological wonder - the Galapagos Islands.
Why study abroad in Ecuador?
Ecuador is the South American capital of Spanish study. Ecuadorians use much less slang than many South and Central American countries, thus one can learn the basis and apply them easily. It has a very low cost of living and is therefore a very affordable location to come stay for a long period of time while studying in depth. Also, it´s steeped in cultural and geographical richness and bio-diversity. There´s plenty outside the classroom to enrich your experience.
- first-hand prehistoric creatures roaming their indigenous habitats,
- see giant marine tortoises and marine iguanas,
- trek alongside active volcanoes, immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the Inca civilization,
- visit a world capital city standing only 15 miles from the Equator and situated at 2850 meters (9,000 feet) with over a million inhabitants!
Practical information
Visa
Travelers do not require an entry visa to visit Ecuador as a tourist for up to three months. Check with the nearest Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate in your area to get details. If you wish to study for more than three months, the School can assist you in obtaining a student visa.
Immunizations
Traveling here is very safe, but you should obtain a few travel vaccinations based upon the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC)
The following are required for travel
Yellow Fever
The following are recommended for travel
Measles/Mumps/ Rubella(MMR):
Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus(DPT)
Hep A and B
Typhoid
You can read more about travel safety on the CDC's website. Visit: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/Ecuador.aspx
Money matters
Ecuador has switched to the US dollar. So for North Americans its great because it saves you the hassle of currency conversion. Atms are everywhere, as are banks. Budget travelers should plan to spend about 15$ per day. A meal here in Montanita costs anywhere from $1.50 to 12$ but average about 4$(of course, it is always dirt cheap to self cater). A beer costs about 1$ in the shop and $1.50 in the bar. You can read more about hotel costs in the Accommodation section
Getting There and Away
Flights
It is probably easiest to fly to Guayaquil. From there we can arrange pickups or you can go on your own with public buses. Fly into Quito and you will either have to bus or fly down to Guayaquil and then take a bus or shuttle to Montanita. We suggest checking on www.orbitz.com for the very cheapest flights available. A one way flight from Quito to Guayaquil costs about $55 with taxes and can be acquired from any travel agent in Quito.
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AIRPORT PICKUPS
Our students can be
picked up at the airport by
school personal and taken to Montanita in a secure and comfortable
taxi. Please contact us for more info.
price $ 60
In
case of flight delay or cancellation, our team should be informed
so we can arrange to meet you at the airport. Our 24-hour emergency number
is +593.81868213 or 593-04-2060001 you can contact us by e-mail at: info@ecuador-spanishschool.com
Buses
Quito to Guayaquil: Buses leave from the Terminal Terrestre all throughout the day and night every hour, 24 hours a day. So don't worry about space unless you are traveling during holidays. These executive buses are comfy and safe and take about 8-9 hours to arrive. Cost is about $9 one way.
Guayaquil to Montanita: whether you fly or bus into Guayaquil, you must make the transfer by bus or shuttle to Montanita. You can take a direct bus from Guayaquil to Montanita on the CLP lines. There are regular services between 5 a.m. till 7 p.m. at night and will cost about $5.50. Travel time is about 4 hours.
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