Otavalo…. What a perfect little tourist trap! Some people go out of their way to avoid touristy locations and I have to say to them – shame on you! There are some places around the world that have every reason to be touristy, because they’re just that awesome!
Otavalo is one of my favourite touristy places, and as touristy places go… it’s really not too touristy. There’s no way you’ll find a maccas on the main strip… or even a main strip for that matter. But the Ecuadorians in Otavalo actually know some English and that’s what gives you the first clue that it is a town for tourists. Apart from that, there are still goats roaming the streets, still strange local food everywhere, still little old ladies in traditional dress and the markets are still filled with absolutely everything…. Just everything.
I know that you’ve already heard me go on and on about Otavalo and its HUGE Saturday markets so what I really want to talk about is Posada Del Quinde (http://posadaquinde.com/). I don’t care who you are, if you go to Otavalo and you don’t stay at Posada Del Quinde for at least one night…. Then you are a crazy person! The price is a little more than some places around the area but it’s worth it. It’s just amazing walking through the dirty, busy goat ridden streets then finding this hotel behind it all, it’s like discovering a secret garden.
The rooms and restaurant is filled with local art, tapestries and throws so it reminds you of where you are. Although you have scorching hot water in the shower, a working toilet and a comfortable bed which reminds you that you’re staying somewhere nice. The restaurant serves a mixture of local and international dishes and the food is good. To the side of the restaurant is a collection of comfy couches surrounding a beautiful hot fire. The staff speak English and make a mean cocktail!
Although I have to say that my favourite part of the hotel was the garden. There was an impeccable open courtyard surrounded by perfectly manicured lawns, local trees and bushes, wildlife (including hummingbirds) and a beautiful view of the hotel which stood like an elegant Spanish elephant. I just couldn’t fault this place! I could have sat in that garden, drank Pina Coladas in the courtyard and lazed next to that roaring fire for ever!
So what I’m really getting at here, is that a fully recommend this place. In fact, I found it an experience of our trip not just a place to stay. If you can spare a little extra for a night or two (or a week or two if you’re lucky!) then do it, you will not be let down. Make sure you stay over the weekend because that’s when Otavalo really shines. I can’t wait till our next visit!
Adios!
Chrissy
