Experience in Quito, Ecuador by Jorge

What is it like to live in Quito? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Quito is slowly becoming a vibrant city. It's the up-and-coming it place in South America. Our economy is increasing, our public services are getting better, overall life is good. It's a paradise for people from the first world because it is incredibly cheap, you can have great food and find a good place for rent for about 350 hundred dollars.

People that have visited me and the city always get a great impression from it.

What is the student lifestyle like in Quito?

Since we are students we live on a tight budget, and the city is perfect to live on a budget. Most universities are withing the metropolitan area, so getting there and coming back to your place won't be a problem.

How much does it cost to live in Quito?

On nice areas of the city you can find studios for like 250-300, outside of the metropolitan area it would be like 150 dollars. Food is very cheap as well as public transportation. I really think that with 600 a month you are good to go, with that you will survive and have fun.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Quito? Is there any advice you can give?

I don't think it is very difficult, there's room for everyone here. I will suggest surfing the internet to find a place, or maybe come for like 4 days and stay in a hotel until finding something. I bet you will find something on a short amount of time.

What is the food like? What are your favorite dishes?

Food here is delicious. My problem with being abroad sometimes is food. Some countries are very expensive and food is not even that good. Quito has good, organic food for a couple of dollars. You can have lunch for like 2 dollars, and it's fresh food.

What places would you recommend visiting in Quito?

Old town is magnificent. It has two different souls, one during the day and another at night.

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Is it good to eat out in Quito? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

Yes, I think it is. Upper scale restaurants range withing 35-60 dollars. Low scale but still good can be found for 2 dollars. There is something for every pocket.

Is the nightlife good in Quito? Where is good to go?

This is something that has to be developed yet. While nightlife is good, it is not wild like in other places, Bangkok or New York for example. Come help us develop a better nightlife!

What advice would you give future students heading to Quito?

The best advice: start making friends with other students through websites like this one. Make some friends before you get here.