On May 6, we finally made it to Quito after two flights and a long bus ride. The altitude was already affecting me after the first night, but thankfully it got better after about a day. Despite how tired we were, the whole group decided to go to a restaurant close to the hotel at around 11pm; it was evident how excited we were to get the trip started and try new things.

After our late night and long day, we had an early breakfast at 7:30 to get our first full day started. We first went to Iglesia de San Francisco, a church that was probably the most beautiful building I will ever see in my life. We eventually got to go to the top of the church as a man was playing on the organ, it was an experience I will never forget. There was also a museum next to the church, so we were able to learn a lot of history behind it as well as seeing amazing art.

We had some delicious churros (I got chocolate), as we were walking through the town. There was some free time before lunch, so we got to listen to musicians on the street. Many people were dancing, it was wonderful to watch. Later in the afternoon we got to have a chocolate tasting; it was very enjoyable. During our free time, we decided to walk around and shop and look at everything the street vendors had. Some of us then walked up La Basilica, all 16 flights, but the view definitely made it worth it, as well as the amazing architecture.

Afterwards, the same group of us went up to El Panecillo, a big statue that we could see from almost any point in the city and then we got to go inside in it. It was a quick experience, but it was as though we were up in the clouds because we were so high up. My first day in Ecuador was one that I will never forget.