I'm writing this blog as we wait in Quito airport for our flight home. Yes, our extended trip to Ecuador is coming to an end.

We've had a fantastic time. Ecuador might not have quite the kudos of some other South American countries but it packs a lot into a relatively small space. Highlights of our trip have included the colonial centres of Quito and Cuenca, the dramatic train ride on the Devil's Nose, walking the Quilotoa Loop, birdwatching in the cloud forest, the laid back vibe of Banos and the colourful markets of Otavalo. And we haven't even visited the coast or the Ecuadorian Amazon. But there have been two specific highlights for me. Firstly the friendliness of the Ecuadorian people themselves, consistently the most welcoming people we've met in South America. Exemplified by the host of the B&B we've stayed at several times in Quito, Luis (pictured). Nothing has been too much trouble for him. He gave us a free tour of Quito when we arrived. He's helped us book tours and trips, stored some of our things as we've travelled around, arranged transport to and from the airport and bus stations and generally made us feel welcomed into his home. If anyone is thinking of coming to Ecuador then we strongly recommend you stay in dawn's Lodge when you are in Quito.

Bu the absolute highlight of the whole trip has to be the Galapagos Islands. There is nowhere else like it, not just in S. America but in the world. It has been a privilege to be able to visit and the see the singular wildlife of the islands up close. Darwin referred to the exceptional importance of the islands as a living laboratory of evolution. Today they have assumed a new significance. As Jack Shepherd, a marine biologist working with the Sea Shepherd organisation, has said "The Galapagos is our line in the sand. If we can't save something as beautiful, as profoundly unique, as pristine as the Galapagos, what can we save?" Let's hope that ours is not the last generation that is able to enjoy them in something at least approaching a pristine state.

As we say goodbye to Ecuador it has once again confirmed why South America is our favourite ravel destination.