Los Alpes Hotel in Quito

I read in the October ’03 issue, page 65, about Los Alpes Hotel (233 Tamayoy George Washington, Quito, ECUADOR; phone [593-2] 2 561-110, e-mail losalpes@ecuadorexplorer.com or visit www.hotellosalpes.com). The reader said it was his favorite place in Quito — and now it’s my favorite, too.

I booked a reservation starting Dec. 15, ’03, and a taxi was waiting for me at the airport in Quito ($7 to the hotel; Ecuador uses only American currency). I was royally greeted and accommodated.

My very, very nice accommodation for three nights, three breakfasts and one great supper with fine wine cost $100.

My first morning, I met a young German traveler who had arranged a private tour with a guide and van. She invited me along and we toured the city, markets and rainforest and drove to Baños.

I travel alone and never have plans for the days after I arrive. I’m a straw in the wind and go with the flow. My experience has been that if I make plans, God says, “Well, if that’s all you want, go ahead,” but if I leave it all up to God I have the most memorable adventures.

RAYE TOBIN
Huntington Beach, CA