Upon finally leaving Ecuador, there is time to reflect on our 39 days in this country, and some of the political aspects. Geographically it is a countryside of great diversity with many different eco systems and micro climates. We really enjoyed these aspect...

The countryside is suffering from the degree of westernisation that has so far occurred. Many people use only biodegradable products. Food is bought locally and there is little waste. However, the countryside is being filled with plastic waste - bags and bottles in particular. There is no infra structure for waste disposal, (no bin men - partly because no one pays taxes) and little recycling. Many areas that should be absolutely beautiful are already scarred.

Politically Ecuador seems to be suffering from the economic crisis that led to dollarisation in 2000 - It sounds like prices of staple goods doubled over night. Hyperinflation occurred for the old currency, savings were wiped out (as many people stored their money under the mattress) - and those with money in the bank got a very poor exchange rate.

It has taken time for confidence to return, for people to again invest in business, buy goods and property. The locals complain about a huge gap between the rich and poor, and the poor distribution of wealth.

Recently a new President was elected on a programme of reform and redistribution. Will Ecuador follow in the footsteps of Chavez in Venezuela?

However, the first new legislation the congress tried to pass would have resulted in a massive pay hike for the congress members. (They wanted over 1000 dollars a month, an English language teacher gets around 250 dollars a month). The President opposed it and the citizens of Quito went out onto the streets. The President really seems to have support from the city dwellers that we spoke to, but is going to find it very difficult to make changes to the constitution in order to modernise and create a more egalitarian Ecuador.

Lesson over !!