Saturday January 18, Manta, Ecuador

First off pictures from last night as we crossed the equator. The ship log pictures of our location showing .02 N at 11:19 PM and then .03 S. It was like 5 seconds later.

Then today we arrived in Manta, Ecuador. We had been told by a fellow passenger that the town of Manta is a common industrial port city and that the town of Montecristi was more interesting. We took a cab and ventured out on our own. First stop was an Ecuadorean Panama hat factory which was just a family shop. Both Steve and I purchased an authentic hand woven Panama hat. 

Our next stop was Ciudad Alfaro, located in the heights of the Montecristi Hill. From this strategic vantage point you can view the village below and the nearby port of Manta. The beautiful facility contains four main components: National Constitutional Assembly & event hall, historical museum, the mausoleo for General Eloy Alfaro, and an artisanal exhibition and market. The museum pays tribute to the construction and operation of the railway lines, with a restored narrow gauge steam engine and historic tools and equipment, and has the national collection of legal seals and stamps. It provides an overview of Ecuador's History, changing exhibitions, and an active legislative assembly.

Our selfie inside the general assembly hall. “Nothing for us , all for the country” on the wall behind us. “Nada para nosotros, toda para la Patria”

Outside the mausoleum again showing off our new original Panama hats.

And then into the old town of Montecristi which of course has an historic cathedral and a busy market since it is Saturday. 

From the cathedral steps looking down into the square.

The vendors selling lots of Panama hats and local trinkets.

Our final stop with our driver was the local golf club which I had been told served great food. Not a typical tourist stop I am sure but it was recommended by a friend from the ship knit group that grew up in Ecuador. She suggested the local cerviche. The waiter was great and helped us with the menu. Great food and a beautiful setting, although perhaps not typical Ecuador.