Whistle stop city tour.  The first church we visited was the Quito Basilica Voto Nacional (The Basilica of the National Vow). Instead of having the usual Gargoyles, the church’s were based on the creatures of the Galapagos islands. The next church was a Jesuit church, La Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (The Church of the Society of Jesus).  Inside every feature was covered in gold foil. The newly gilded surfaces (after a fire) were extremely shiny and reflected the lighting in a spectacular fashion. No photography was allowed in the Jesuit church.

On then to the President’s Palace, where he should live, but being a leftist politician he has decided only to work there, and open his palace to the people. The square had a demonstration in progress, with tents and speeches. Was this Occupy Quito? No, instead it the build up to a large demonstration occurring on Thursday, something to do with land rights for the indigenous people.

Next on to an area which used to be the redlight district, but had now been cleaned up somewhat. Apparently if your car radio was stolen, you could guarantee getting it back here. There were a few working girls still available in the area. I do wonder where this clean up has displaced the majority of the women.

Then back on to the bus to get a view of the whole city from El Panecillo where the aluminium statue of the Virgin was sited. This was built in the 1970s and shipped in from Spain in pieces.

Back to the bus and on for lunch, sandwiches and a beer in a cafe, not that good, and not very good value. Taxi back to the hotel for a hat and sun tan cream, I was beginning to burn under the clouds. Quick walk to the Botanical Gardens to photograph some humming birds. The sun tan cream and photo opportunity brought an immediate downpour.

Soaked, we made are way back to the hotel for an evening meal, not tempted out for Guinea Pig, because of the rather inclement weather.