Under $100: Quito, Ecuador

If you’re anything like me, coffee is considerably more important than food in the morning and for that reason start your day at Cafe Galletti. While coffee is first and foremost and its staff is comprised of coffee geeks, you’ll have no trouble finding something to eat to get started with your day.

As you exit the theater where Galletti is located, take the time to stroll through Quito’s old town before grabbing a taxi or a bus for the 20-kilometer ride to the Pululahua Volcanic Crater to walk around and look at a truly awesome national park that has a plethora of birds, as well as wealth of butterflies floating around the afternoon sky.

Old Town Quito © Hoang Bao Nguyen | Dreamstime

If mountain biking or taking a guided tour is more your cup of tea, make the Hostal Pululahua your first stop for a variety of tours and bike rentals. They also offer horseback riding as well as butterfly and orchid tours. Even if you’re not interested, the same building is your lunch destination.

The hostel offers a wealth of options from its organic farms, where baked pork with vegetables, creole chicken soup, a salad and coffee or beer will set you back a mere $12. After lunch, spend your day in the volcano’s crater before making your way back to Quito for a quick change of clothes and dinner.

Los Granaderos de Tarqui, Guardians of the Presidential Palace in La Plaza Grande © Javarman | Dreamstime

Nuema for a romantic dinner with about $80 left in your wallet is fantastic. If you’re in a hurry, it’s likely not your best option as it usually has but one waiter, but its charm makes up for it. Local ingredients meet a fantastic chef and multiple plates should be shared family style to make the most of your visit.

After dinner, it’s time to get out and Quito has no shortage of bars and clubs. Finn McCools is my speed, but to get the most for your money you might consider a Saturday pub crawl where $10 will see you get heaps of drinks at multiple locations with like-minded people.