Has anyone traveled to Ecuador recently?

do you have any suggestions for easy (& cheap) travel? I've never personally been outside the U.S. for vacation, but my husband has. We are going there to visit my in-laws.

Been there! I've been to Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. You will love it! What's nice about Ecuador (and most Latin American countries) is that you have beaches Mountains and jungles all in one country. There are amazing beaches in Ecuador. I recommend you visit Ba帽os and Otavalo while there, and also to jump to neighbouring countries such as Peru or Colombia if you have some time. A trip to Galapagos is worth it but it can be pretty expensive so I would rather go to Peru or Colombia first. There is no negative comment I can make, food is ok, people are friendly and you will have a nice experience. While there, try eating yapingachos which are like smashed potato balls, deep fried and with a tasty cheese filling. You will have no prolems there as your in-laws will make you feel welcomed and will show you around and take you to nice places. Just let yourself be pampred and enjoy the country!

I will be traveling to Ecuador myself for the 1st time in October. I been all over Central America like Panama and Costa Rica and just love it there I just asked the same question you did just 30 secs ago

Yeah, I just got back , I was there less than a week ago approximately, we went to Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands with Adventures Abroad Travel company. We had a great time, it was easy but NOT cheap. Ecuador was really fun, it is hot there, but no one wears shorts, its not really socially acceptable. I would take a cruise on the Galapagos it's so much fun!!! but not for too long, no more than 5 days, it can get a little repetitive.

There is too much to do there. Ecuador is a fascinating and beautiful country. The exotic foods are also very interesting, give it a try! Careful with the water, most of it is not drinkable. Most of the tourist areas and stores are very expensive, but there are markets where you can go, you can also fight the price down on the items. People know you are tourist so they will take the advantage to ask more on what they sell. Manta is wonderful for a beach, and the areas surrounding. Quito has soo many mountains you can hike and enjoy the scenery, never get tired of it. There is also the telegerico you can take. Wear a thick jacket.
The weather in Quito is like 4 seasons in one day so be prepared for cold, wind, sunshine and rain all in one day. Galapagos is also beautiful if you like wildlife, but for a tourist it is expensive to go there, depends on your budget. Guayaquil is a party city, people are much more open and friendly. Cuenca is beautiful. I am sure you will have a great time! Unfortunately Ecuador is very beaurocratic and red tape filled, so there maybe somethings you will have to be patient with, but ENJOY! Take lots of pictures!!!