Friday, April 02, 2010

Quit boredom, visit Quito!

Situated at the foot of the active volcano Pichincha, and spread across a spectacular Andean valley, Quito enjoys a spectacular natural setting. As a matter of fact, owing to its natural beauty and myriad historical sites, this Ecuadorian city enjoys the reputation of being the first city in the world to be named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Stroll back in time, as you take a horse carriage ride in the old town. The Mirador El Panecillo statue, which is better known as ‘Virgin of Quito’, stands atop the Panecillo at the southern end of this colonial city. Bordered by the Government Palace on the west, City Hall in the east, Archbishop’s Palace in the north and the Cathedral in the south, is the La Plaza de la Independencia, a building compound of great significance in the 16th century, which is now usually jostling with tourists throughout the year. The former Archbishop’s Palace is now converted into a mini market with a series of small shops and boutiques. Walking into the narrow cobblestone streets transports you to another era.

A 20-minute walk from the old town and an entirely different world welcomes you with trendy cafes, multistory constructions, parks and museums. The new town (Quito) has a plethora of options for your itinerary. Do visit La Compañía de Jesús church, which is regarded as one of the most ornate structures in Ecuador. At the very top of the church is a 7-tonne gold leaf covering the ceiling. The church is one of the finest Spanish architectures one can find. To enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Pichincha Volcano and the Quito landscape, head straight to Quito’s best-known tourist attraction – El Teleferico, where the ‘Teleferico’ cable car takes you to an altitude of 4050 meters from where one can start an adventure-filled hike to the snow-capped volcanoes.

Set up on a hill overlooking Quito on one side and the valleys on the other, Parque Metropolitano, with a maze of forest paths, roads, sports fields and picnic areas is a picture of pure bliss!

For those planning to escape the crowds, there are many day trips organised by the city to its neighbouring regions. Visit the thermal springs at Papallacta’s or simply enjoy the picturesque view at the pretty pueblos dotted along the quaint Valle de los Chillos.

With warm, welcoming inhabitants, and myriad museums and plazas to be explored, Quito holds the promise of a rare, unforgettable experience!

For Complete IIPM Article, Click on IIPM Article

Source :
IIPM Editorial, 2009


An IIPM and Professor Arindam Chaudhuri (Renowned Management Guru and Economist) Initiative

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