Under The Volcano
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Under the Volcano
Title:
Under the Volcano
Summary:
Nestled at the foot of the Tungurahua volcano, the town of Baños, Ecuador invites visitors to witness eruptions, enjoy dollar meals, trek to waterfalls, and dance the night away.
Keywords:
under the volcano, Ecuador, Baños, Ecuador
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Baños sits gracefully at the base of Tungurahua, often known as "under the volcano." Drawn by the allure of an eruption, we paid a modest $3 each for a two-hour excursion to a hill overlooking the town. From this vantage point, the volcano's summit was visible, and right on cue, it offered a fiery display. A rum drink later, I helped push-start our vehicle, adding a touch of adventure to the outing.
In June 2004, my wife Ana and I spent an unforgettable week in Baños. Our hotel, equipped with cable TV, cost just $6 a night?"half the usual rate due to our negotiating skills. Daily lunches were only $1 each, totaling just $2.25 for both of us, including tips. Normally, we enjoyed a meal of chicken, rice, beans, salad, and juice. Occasionally, we splurged on a $1.50 lunch at a nicer spot.
Hot Springs of Baños
The proximity to the volcano has posed challenges for Baños residents over the years but has also blessed the town with abundant hot springs. Featuring some of Ecuador’s finest mineral springs, Baños has two hot and two cold spring facilities. The most popular one lies at the foot of a cascading waterfall and is within walking distance from anywhere in town. Entry costs just a dollar, or a bit more for a night-time soak under the stars. A sign details the medicinal minerals in the water, attracting many seeking relief from ailments like arthritis.
Visiting the hot springs became a delightful daily routine. While Ana indulged in shopping, I engaged in chess games at the open market with Manolo, Rene, or other locals. The stunning vistas, verdant hills, and colonial architecture were a constant backdrop to our activities.
Evenings were for dancing. Santo Pecado, aptly named "saint/sinner," was our regular haunt where the owner loved to share stories. Our favorite disco, Tuparina, offered more than just music?"it served huayusa, a drink made from a psychedelic plant harvested by the owner's family.
The Active Tungurahua Volcano
Ecuador hosts several active volcanoes, with Tungurahua being one of the liveliest. To see it in action, you must venture out of town, as Baños rests nestled among lush, green mountains that obscure the view. A "volcano tour" is the perfect solution.
Several operators offer these tours. Simply hop onto one of the "chivas" circling Baños, recognizable by their loud music. A chiva is an open-sided bus offering seating both inside and on the roof.
Ana opted for the comfort of inside seating, while I couldn’t resist the thrill of the roof?"just beware of branches! Accompanied by lively party music, we toured the city before heading into the mountains. On a hilltop, fire-jugglers entertained us, and free hot rum drinks were on offer. The lights of Baños twinkled below as Tungurahua performed its lava show. The whole two-hour experience, including drinks and the unexpected task of push-starting the chiva, was a steal at $3 each.
Exploring Baños
Beyond the volcano, Baños offers plenty of attractions. Visit a zoo with bears, birds, and tortoises. Rent an ATV, cycle to nearby waterfalls, enjoy vibrant nightlife, or purchase avocados for just 20 cents. For $1.50 per person, you can watch a recent movie in a private viewing room?"you can even bring your own food and drinks. Nearly everything is within a few blocks of any hotel. Whether indulging in adventure or relaxation, Baños is a haven with its ideal year-round climate.
Officially known as Baños de Agua Santa, this town in Ecuador's Andes is fondly referred to simply as Baños. Nestled at Tungurahua's base, Baños is a mere eighty miles from Quito. Bus fares are less than five dollars. Are you ready for a vacation under the volcano?
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Under The Volcano.
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