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Of late, Ecuador has been in the headlines more for its political scandals and street protests than its reputation as a great travel destination.

Add to that volcanic destruction near the popular Bano beach resort, (along with a recent crime wave near the northern border it shares with Peru) and the travel outlook in Ecuador dims even more.

Even so, the country lying right on the equator (Equator = Ecuador) has much to recommended it for saavy travelers willing to stick close to the capital, Quito.

Here, on pleasant strolls in downtown, a warm welcome is promised in many of its cafes, and history comes alive in its original colonial architecture. Also remember to take the camera for a trip on the Teleferico (cable car), transporting tourists to a nearby peak in the Andes for a birds eye view of the entire town and surroundings.

While in Quito, take the short flight to the town of Lago Agrio to tour the country's amazing natural beauty in the Oriente, Ecuador's Amazon River region, for an awe-inspirng look at one of the world's most diverse jungle ecosystems.

Of course, a trip to Ecuador would not be complete without an exursion to the stunning untouched natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands off the west coast, where memorable jungle safaris, exotic flora and fauna, and world-class diving and snorkeling also await ...

More about Ecuador travel & tourist attractions around the Web:

Ecuador Explorer - Complete travel guide to the country's top attractions by major city or national park areas including the coast, Andes and Amazon regions, related hotel and tour information, practical travel tips, photos, maps.

Quito Tourist Portal - Colorful entry to the capital city with helpful guides on restaurants & Ecuadorian cuisine, searchable database of hotels, top attractions, suggested itineraries, maps, event calendar.

Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Guide - Extensive portal to hotels & restaurants, activities, attractions, practical tips, and a huge cache of related travel articles.

Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Travel Information - Lonely Planet guide with insider travel tips on what to see and do, overviews of its culture & history, photos, maps.

Ecuador Travel Blogs - Take your pick of recent travelogues with photos, featuring tips on what to see, where to go, what to avoid and other helpful been-there advice.

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