Quito is enjoyable when considering the sights and atmosphere in the city as well as in the surrounding area. The immense and breathtaking mountain volcanoes are the most immediate attention grabbers in the area. The city and the people in the city, at a slightly lower elevation, are also quite amazing. Artistry and hospitality are everywhere. From murals on the walls to the chalinas (shawls) that the women wear and from expensive hotels to hostels, Quito is a city to appreciate.
The beginning task is to go about exploring the city. One will of course want to buy food and souvenirs and will also want to pay fair prices for everything that one does buy. Here are a few hints to make a trip that's financially rewarding while avoiding social awkwardness.
How the Money Works
The legal currency in Ecuador is the American dollar. Local currency does exist and is exchanged equally with American money, but it does not have value outside of the country. There is no need to exchange money upon entering the country and so most prices should make logical sense. If an item for sale is valued at a similar amount of money in the United States, it is also fairly priced in Ecuador. Most things will cost less than they would cost in the United States. Some things, such as American chain restaurants, may cost more.
When Bartering is Okay
When a market is open for business and is full of souvenir-type items that are not visibly priced, it is usually a signal to haggle prices. The process begins with a question about the price of an item and the ends when elaborate bartering games reveal a final price. If a person does not wish to barter, he must pay the first price that is quoted. If a person does wish to barter, he should offer a price lower than the one he would ultimately like to pay for an item. Again, United States prices can be used as guidelines.
When Bartering is Not Okay
Whenever a price is clearly marked or listed, a person should not try to offer less money for the item. This includes drugstores, mall shops and restaurants. In small food markets is is also distasteful to barter. Fruit and vegetable options change frequently and may not be marked, but the prices should be considered firm. Bakeries may also have unmarked items, but bread is so inexpensive anyway that a customer should pay the price asked.
It can be confusing to enter into different cultures. Bartering is not especially popular in the United States, but it is in many South American countries. By keeping the above-mentioned suggestions in mind, a traveler can expect to enjoy shopping in Ecuador.
