Under $100: Guayaquil

Guayaquil is one of the largest cities in Ecuador, home to a wonderful array of colors and cultural experiences tourists love. Visiting the city is not cheap; however, so you’re limited as to what you can see and do in one day on a budget.

Start out at Dulceria La Palma, a delightful French café that serves traditional French and Austrian foods for affordable prices. The atmosphere is a little hectic but you can get in, out and filled up quickly for less than $15.

Next, make your way to the Las Penas neighborhood to explore the wonderful colors the area is widely known for displaying. Each of the houses is brightly colored, making it one of the most beautiful in the city. Climb your way to the top of lighthouse for great views of the city. From there, head on over to Malecon 2000, the boardwalk overlooking the Guayas River, also home to numerous monuments, sculptures and gardens to explore.

For lunch, seek out Corozo El Verdadero for a truly authentic meal. You’ll rarely find tourists inside which means you know you’re getting a great deal and true Ecuadorian flavors no matter what you order. A meal here will cost around $15.

Once stuffed, head over to Parque de las Iguanas to see a quaint little park full of iguanas roaming around searching for something to eat. They’re not dangerous, but you probably don’t want to stick a hand near their mouths. Directly across from this, you’ll see the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil, an impressive piece of history and an architectural wonder you can visit for free.

Finally, head over to the Parque Historico, a small zoo that showcases much of the flora and fauna indigenous to the region along with a wide variety of animals. Entrance is free.

If you’re hungry at the end of the day, grab a bite at Marrecife Marisqueria and try some of its delicious ceviche. Dinner should cost no more than $20.