Universidad Católica De Santiago De Guayaquil

UNIVERSIDAD CATÓLICA DE SANTIAGO DE GUAYAQUIL

Programa Internacional de Español para Extranjeros

Curso FALL 2015

Dear Student:

Welcome to Guayaquil!!!!!. Your first formal session will be on September 7th. at 10:00 a.m. at “Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil”. We will meet you at Philosophy Faculty – Spanish as a Foreign Language Program office.

The first day, your host family will assist you in getting to the university and back home.

Please bring the following items with you for the orientation meeting:

PASSPORT, TWO PHOTOCOPIES OF PASSPORT & VISA THIS BOOKLET

WELCOME!!!

DANIELA ZEVALLOS JANETT SALAZAR Director Academic Coordinator

STAFF DIRECTORY

DANIELA ZEVALLOS Spanish as a Foreign Language Program Home: 2295683 Cell Phone: (09)95101765 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

JANETT SALAZAR Academic Coordinator / Advanced Spanish teacher

Licenciada de la Facultad de Filosofía ,Letras y Ciencias de la Educación. Profesora de Segunda Enseñanza Especialización Lengua Española y Literatura. Profesora del Pre- Universitario de La Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil. Profesora de Idioma Español en la Facultad de Artes y Humanidades en la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil. Asesora Acádemica de la Facultad de Especialidades Empresariales en la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil.

E-mail: [email protected]

MA. LEONOR BAQUERIZO Oral and Wrtiting Spanish teacher

Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil – Facultad de Filosofía, Letras y Ciencias de la Educación (4to. Ciclo). Taller de escritura con Miguel Donoso Pareja. Cursos abiertos de varios autores con Joaquín Hernández – Difusión Cultural Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil (1998 – 1999). Universidad de Loja – Lengua y Literatura (2006).

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

STAFF & FACULTY

FALL 2015

PHONE NAME

Janett Salazar Coordinación y Tutoría 2853250 – 854913 - Académica 0993185059 Ma. Leonor Baquerizo Profesora de Español 2834404 – 2834405 Expresión Oral y Escrita 0998420421 Daniela Zevallos Directora Programa de Español 2209210 ext. 1417 para Extranjeros 0995101765

STUDENTS AND HOST FAMILY INFORMATION

ADDRESS NAME FAMILY PHONE

2384796 / Ave. Costanera 617 y Las Gary Klubok Sonia Burbano 09984754659 Monjas (Urdesa Central)

COURSE OFFER

FALL 2015

ADVANCED I – 60 HOURS (4 CREDITS)

Students will learn to use appropriately the Spanish language for the oral and writing communication through creative, correct and adequate communicative strategies that will incorporate the using of the indicative, subjunctive and imperative mood tenses; passive and active voice, connectors, as well as, the correct use of accentuation, punctuation and prepositions in order to communicate participatory in the Hispanic speakers community with security, efficiency and fluency.

ADVANCED II – 60 HOURS (4 CREDITS)

Students will be able to demonstrate their abilities in the different stages of the writing process. They will develop the ideas of the interactions between the writer and the reader, the purpose and the message. They will be able to increase and define the tools for writing in Spanish, control grammar, vocabulary , rhetoric techniques in real life situations.

ORAL AND WRITING COMMUNICATION – 60 HOURS (4 CREDITS)

Students will be able to communicate clearly, fluent and effectively in all the real situations; comprehends and use an extend vocabulary and expressions using complex texts; elaborate critical analyze of different kinds of texts with diverse styles.

ACADEMIC POLICIES

Diagnostic Exam

Students will take a diagnostic exam for teacher information only. Students are placed according to their previous Spanish approved courses. If a students wishes to be placed in a level already approved in the USA (repetition). He may do so, but will not obtain credit for it. Written request needed.

Attendance

Attendance and class schedules must be observed by all students.

Minimum of 80% attendance is required to pass each course.

Students that do not complete minimum attendance will not be eligible for credit.

Teachers can not change their academic program due to non attendance of the students.

Evaluations and Grades

There will be written and oral evaluations in each course, as well as presentations.

100 – 90 = A 89 – 80 = B 79 – 70 = C 69 – 60 = D 59 – – = F

Students with 69 and under will not receive credit for the subject

Field Trip and or Excursions

There will be a field trip and / or several local excursions organized by the program, which are part of the academic activities. It is recommended to participate in them.

Dress Code

There is a dress code that all program students must observe. Shorts, tank tops and flip flop are not allowed.

HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

In Study Abroad as in any other settings, participants can have a major impact on their own health and safety abroad through the decisions they make before and during the program and by their day - to - day choices and behaviors.

As participants in our international Program you should do the following:

1.- Read and carefully consider all materials that relate to safety, health, legal, environmental, political, cultural and religious conditions in the country.

2.- Make available to our staff any special health cares you might be in need of at any given time.

3.- Assume responsibility for your personal preparation for the program and participate fully in orientations.

4.- Understand and comply with the terms of participation, codes of conduct, and emergency procedures of the program, and obey the country’s law.

5.- Be aware of local conditions and customs that may present health or safety risks when making daily choices and decisions. Take appropriate action and request assistance in resolving any health and safety concerns you have.

6.- Behave in a manner that is respectful of the rights and well being of others, and encourage others to behave in a similar manner.

7.- Accept responsibility for your own decisions an actions.

8.- Become familiar with the procedure for obtaining emergency help.

9.- Keep the program staff informed of your whereabouts and well-being.

The Catholic University and CCIS Program:

 Cannot assume responsibility for the actions of persons not employed by the college for events that are not part of the program, or for situations that may arise due to participants negligence

 Cannot guarantee or assure the safety of participants or eliminate all risks from the study abroad experience.

 Cannot monitor or control all of the daily personal decisions, choice, and activities of individual participants.

 Cannot prevent participants from engaging in illegal, dangerous or unwise activities.

 Cannot assure that the US standards of due process apply in the country’s legal proceedings or provide or pay for legal representation for participants.

SAFETY.-

Your safety is our main concern, we want you to enjoy your stay here in Ecuador and to feel free to explore and venture.

Guayaquil is no different from any other city. Precautions must be taken when out late at night. Taxis are safer late at night and buses become scarce past 11: p.m. Stay in lighted areas when walking around.

When you decide to travel around the country, please inform the administrators and your family of your plans and when you expect to return home. It is highly recommendable to travel in pairs.

Families expect you to let them know when you will be home after classes or after going out in the evening.

Ecuador

OFFICIAL NAME: REPUBLIC OF ECUADOR LAST UPDATED: JULY 16, 2014

Quick Facts

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months

BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp

TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days per calendar year.

VACCINATIONS: Suggested

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Quito

Ave. Avigiras E12-170 y Ave. Eloy Alfaro (next to SOLCA) Quito, Ecuador

Telephone: +(593)(2) 398-5000 GRATIS +(593)(2) 398-5000

Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(593)(2) 398-5000 GRATIS +(593)(2) 398-5000 Fax: +(593)(2) 398-5100 [email protected]

CONSULATES U.S. Consulate General Guayaquil Calle Santa Ana y Av. Jose Rodriguez Bonin Sector San Eduardo, Guayaquil, Ecuador

Telephone: +(593)(4) 371-7000 GRATIS +(593)(4) 371-7000

Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(593)(4) 371-7000 GRATIS +(593)(4) 371-7000 Fax: +(593)(4) 371-7045 [email protected]

Destination Description Ecuador is a Spanish-speaking country approximately the size of Colorado. It has a democratically elected government. In general, tourist facilities are adequate but vary in quality. Crime is a significant concern. Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency, and U.S. bills and both U.S. and locally minted coins are accepted everywhere. Read more about U.S. relations with Ecuador.

Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements Visa Requirements to Enter Ecuador: If you are a U.S. citizen wishing to enter Ecuador, you must present a U.S. passport with at least six months remaining validity. Ecuadorian immigration officials also sometimes request evidence of return or onward travel, such as an airline ticket.

Under Ecuadorian law, U.S. citizens traveling for business or tourism on a tourist passport can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa. Extensions for up to another 90 days can be requested through the provincial migration offices.

If you are planning a visit longer than 90 days, you must obtain a visa in advance of your arrival.

More detailed information and requirements for visas in Ecuador can be found at the website of Ecuador's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You can also visit the website for the Embassy of Ecuador in the United States for the most current visa information, or for further information regarding entry, exit or customs requirements. If you stay in Ecuador beyond the terms of your visa, you may be deported or barred from re-entering Ecuador in the future. A substantial fine may be imposed by Ecuadorian Immigration prior to your departure.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Ecuador.

For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page.

Proof of Legal Status While In Ecuador: Once you have entered Ecuador, Ecuadorian authorities require you to carry identification, including proof of U.S. citizenship, at all times. Because of the frequency of passport theft in Ecuador, you should carry a photocopy of your passport (including the personal data page and the entry stamp and/or visa) rather than your actual passport.

Departing Ecuador: To depart Ecuador, you must again present a U.S. passport with at least six months validity remaining.

Special Entry/Exit Instructions for U.S. Citizens Born in Ecuador: The Government of Ecuador considers any person born in Ecuador to be an Ecuadorian citizen. U.S. citizens born in Ecuador will be required to show an Ecuadorian passport or national ID card (“cedula”) to Ecuadorian Immigration authorities upon entering and exiting the country. Dual citizens who do not comply with this requirement may not be allowed to enter or exit the country. Be

aware that all U.S. citizens, regardless of dual citizenship, must present a valid U.S. passport upon returning to the United States. For additional information, visit the Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Travel Documents website. Information about dual nationality can be found on our website.

Special Exit Requirements for Minors: Ecuador has implemented specific procedures to prevent international child abduction. Under Ecuadorian law, children under the age of 18 who are citizens or residents of Ecuador and who are traveling alone, with one parent, or with a third party, must present a copy of a birth certificate and written authorization from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian. When a parent is deceased, a notarized copy of the death certificate is required in lieu of written authorization. Please see the website of the Embassy or Consulate for further details about how to prepare written authorization for a child’s travel. Further information about the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website.

Lost/Stolen Passports: If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Ecuador, you must obtain a police report in order to replace your passport at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, and then obtain a “Movimiento Migratorio” from an Ecuadorian immigration office in order to leave the country. Please see the website of the Embassy or Consulate for further information.

Safety and Security Natural Disasters: Ecuador has many active and potentially active volcanoes, including around the capital of Quito and other popular tourist destinations. Other potential environmental threats include flooding, earthquakes, and tsunamis. In the event of a natural disaster, transportation, water, communications, and power systems may fail due to damaged infrastructure or heavy ash fall. Roads may close and flights in or out of Ecuadorian airports might be cancelled due to adverse conditions.

Three active volcanoes within 100 kilometers of Quito threaten the city primarily with ash fall. Baños, a popular tourist destination, is located at the base of the Tungurahua volcano. Tungurahua has erupted explosively several times in the last decade, including several eruptions throughout 2010 and 2011 that produced significant ash fall. Travelers to Baños, especially on the western side of town, should be aware that mud or lava flows could pose a significant and immediate threat. If you are in Baños when a volcanic eruption occurs, stay alert to the sirens and instructions from local authorities, and follow the arrows on the street to reach the evacuation shelters in the Santa Ana neighborhood on the main road on the east side of town, towards Puyo.

Earthquakes sometimes trigger deadly tsunamis, which could strike coastal areas of Ecuador or the Galápagos Islands. Ecuadorian national authorities put out warnings of potential tsunamis, but the response on the local level is uneven, and on one recent occasion in the Galapagos Islands, there was no coordinated evacuation when a tsunami struck.

Ecuador’s National Risk Management Secretariat and the Ecuadorian Geophysical Institute monitor Ecuadorian volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Ecuador, issuing regular reports on their activity. In the event of a natural disaster, pay close attention to the news media for updates.

Civil Unrest: Political demonstrations occur frequently throughout Ecuador. During demonstrations, protesters often block city streets and rural highways, including major arteries such as the Pan American Highway, disrupting public and private transportation. Protesters sometimes burn tires, throw rocks, damage cars and other personal property, and on occasion detonate small improvised explosive devices. Police response to demonstrations varies, but may include water cannons and tear gas. U.S. citizens and U.S.-

11 affiliated interests are not usually targeted, but you should avoid areas where demonstrations are in progress and be prepared with back-up transportation plans. Peaceful demonstrations can turn violent with little or no warning, and you could become a target.

Northern Border Region: Due to the spread of organized crime, drug and small-arms trafficking, and incursions by terrorist organizations near Ecuador’s border with Colombia, the U.S. Embassy in Quito advises caution when traveling to northern Ecuador, including the provinces of Sucumbios, northern Orellana (including the city of Coca), Carchi, and northern Esmeraldas (including the city of Esmeraldas). U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the northern border unless case-specific permission is granted. Embassy personnel are not permitted to go to this region on personal travel of any kind. At least 11 U.S. citizens are known to have been kidnapped in this region during the past 11 years.

Safety in the Galapagos Islands: The Galápagos archipelago is located more than 600 miles to the west of continental Ecuador. Geographic isolation and the lack of local resources may present challenges to travelers there. Dangers posed by lax enforcement of marine safety laws and rudimentary medical facilities are exacerbated by the difficulty of performing evacuations from the islands. A significant number of Ecuadorian tour vessels operating in the Galápagos do not meet international safety standards. The Government of Ecuador requires that vessels carrying more than 16 passengers comply with the International Safety Management Code established by the International Maritime Organization. However, the quality of oversight, crewmember proficiency, and other requisites for safe vessel operation may vary substantially. Travelers should inquire about safety features when boarding vessels. Be sure to look for life boats, flotation devices and, if possible, take a moment to inspect the life vest you would be using if there were an accident.

Medical resources in the Galápagos Islands are severely limited. Acute surgical, cardiac, and other types of specialty medicine are not available. There are two hospitals, located on the Santa Cruz and San Cristobal Islands. These facilities have limited personnel and resources, and often do not have basic medical supplies. Some cruise ships have on-board physicians available, who charge a fee for their services. Scuba divers in the Galápagos Islands should be aware of limited facilities for decompression. Serious injury or illness in the Galápagos typically requires costly medical evacuation to the Ecuadorian mainland or the United States for treatment. Medical evacuations by air ambulance can run upwards of $50,000 and take significant time to arrange. For that reason, the purchase of traveler’s health insurance that includes air evacuation is strongly recommended.

Stay up to date on safety and security information:

Bookmark our Bureau of Consular Affairs website which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook.

Call 1-888-407-4747 GRATIS 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the U.S. and Canada, or a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Take some time before you travel to consider your personal security. Here are some useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: Crime is a severe problem in Ecuador. Crimes against U.S. citizens in the past year have ranged from petty theft to violent offenses, including armed robbery, home invasion,

12 sexual assault, and several instances of murder and attempted murder. Very low rates of apprehension and conviction of criminals – due to limited police and judicial resources – contribute to Ecuador’s high crime rate.

“Secuestro Express” Taxi Assaults: Robberies and assaults against taxi passengers, known locally as “secuestro express” continue to present a significant safety concern, especially in Guayaquil and Manta, but also with increasing regularity in Quito. Shortly after the passenger enters a taxi, the vehicle is typically intercepted by armed accomplices of the driver, who threaten passengers with weapons, rob passengers of their personal belongings, and force victims to withdraw money from ATMs. Increasingly, victims have been beaten or raped during these incidents.

When in Ecuador, you should call to order a taxi by phone or use a service affiliated with major hotels. If you must hail a taxi on the street, seek out those that are officially registered and in good condition. Registered taxis in Ecuador are usually yellow, display matching unit numbers on their windshields and doors, feature a taxi cooperative name on the door, and are identified with an orange license plate. Still, be aware that passengers have been victimized even in taxis that meet these criteria. U.S. government personnel in Ecuador are forbidden from hailing street taxis.

If you become a victim of express kidnapping and/or robbery, cooperation with the assailant usually results in the best outcome, as nothing material is as valuable as your life. Following a criminal incident, U.S. citizens are encouraged to immediately file a police report with the local authorities and to inform the American Citizens Services Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Quito or the U.S. Consulate General in Guayaquil.

Violent Robberies: Armed or violent robberies can occur in all parts of Ecuador, not just the major cities. Many travelers have been robbed after using ATMs or when exiting banks. Travelers should avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash at one time from banks and ATMs, and should use ATMs in protected indoor areas like well-guarded shopping malls. In some cases, robbers have used motorcycles to approach their victims and flee the scene. Tourists have also been robbed at gunpoint on beaches and along hiking trails.

Non-Violent Robberies: Pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, robbery, bag-slashing, and hotel room theft are the most common types of crimes committed against U.S. citizens in Ecuador. They occur throughout Ecuador and incidents have increased significantly in recent years. Pickpockets and other petty thieves are particularly active in airports, restaurants, on public transportation, in crowded streets, bus terminals, public markets, and grocery stores. Backpackers are frequently targeted for robbery, as are travelers carrying laptop computer bags. On buses, luggage stowed below the bus or at a traveler’s feet is sometimes stolen. Thieves in Ecuador often distract the victim, sometimes by purposefully spilling liquid on the victim and pretending to help the victim clean it up, while accomplices snatch the victim’s bag or pick the victim’s pocket. To lower your risk of these or other non- violent crimes, leave valuables in a safe place, or don’t travel with them. Make use of hotel safes when available, avoid wearing obviously expensive jewelry or designer clothing, and carry only the cash or credit cards that you will need on each outing. Stay alert to pickpockets when in crowds and when taking public transportation, and be conscious that distractions can be created to target you.

Carjacking and Thefts from Vehicles: To avoid carjacking or theft from your vehicle while you are stopped at intersections, drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up. “Smash and grabs” occur when thieves break into parked vehicles, but have also been known to occur in slow-moving or stopped traffic, particularly when cars are driven by females in the car alone. Do not leave anything of value in plain view in a car, including sunglasses, sports

13 equipment, purses, briefcases or valuables. Always be aware of your surroundings, and try to travel in groups.

Sexual Assault: Incidents of sexual assault and rape have increased, including in well- traveled tourist areas. Criminals generally target women who are alone, and use alcohol or incapacitating drugs on unsuspecting tourists to rob and/or sexually assault them. These so- called date-rape drugs disorient the victim and can cause prolonged unconsciousness and serious medical problems. To lower your risk, travel in groups, don’t leave food or drinks unattended in public places, and never allow a stranger to give you a drink.

Murder: Since September 2009, at least four U.S. citizens in Ecuador have been victims of murder. In most cases, the victims and alleged perpetrators personally knew each other. Investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators is the responsibility of the Ecuadorian government, and do not proceed with the speed and thoroughness we are accustomed to in the United States. Although the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General monitor and encourage these investigations, our ability to intervene is extremely limited. The Ecuadorian government has established an emergency hotline that callers can use to inform police about murders or contract killings. The number is 1-800-DELITO (1800 335486 GRATIS 1800 335486 ).

Credit Card Fraud: Increasing numbers of U.S. citizens in Ecuador have fallen victim to fraud related to their credit or debit cards. “Skimming,” the theft of credit card informationduring an otherwise legitimate transaction, is most likely to occur in restaurants or bars, where the skimmer takes the victim's card out of the owner’s view. To avoid skimming, take the credit/debit card to the register yourself and never let the card out of your sight. Also, be sure to monitor your bank account or credit card statement frequently.

Staying Alert in Quito: Stay particularly alert for crime on the crowded streets of south Quito, at the Panecillo, the Historic District, and in the areas of El Tejar, Parroquia San Sebastian, Avenida Cristobal Colon, and Gonzalez Suarez. Quito’s Mariscal Sucre district, a popular tourist area with restaurants, bars, hotels, hostels, and shopping, is increasingly a site of crimes; reported incidents in recent years range from petty theft and sexual assault to shootings. In Mariscal Sucre, travel in groups when possible, avoid hailing taxis off the street or using unofficial taxis, and exercise caution in the early morning hours. Outside the city, stay alert if hiking to the summit of Pichincha, as violent crime has been known to occur there.

Staying Alert in Guayaquil and Elsewhere on the Coast: In Guayaquil, visitors should exercise extreme caution in the downtown area and the southern part of the city. Tourist sites such as the Christ statue (Sagrado Corazon de Jesus) on Cerro del Carmen, the Malecon 2000, and Las Peñas, though well-patrolled by police, are still targeted by criminals hoping to prey on unsuspecting tourists. There have also been reports of armed robberies at restaurants in the fashionable areas of Urdesa and Samborondon.

At the airport in both Quito and Guayaquil, arriving passengers have been targeted by armed robbers who follow them from the airport to rob them. Cases have been reported involving multiple vehicles that cut off and intercept the victim as well as just a single motorcycle rider who robs the victim while they are getting out of their car. The perpetrators appear to focus on travelers who are returning from overseas trips laden with gifts and large amounts of cash.

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime, you should immediately contact the local police to file a crime report (known as a “denuncia”) and inform the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. The Ecuadorian Tourist Security Service has 14

opened a number of service centers throughout Quito, which provide general information and a location to file police reports.

If you are a victim of crime, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General can:

Help you find appropriate medical care for violent crimes such as assault or rape. Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities and contact family members or friends on your behalf. Replace your stolen passport. Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to Ecuadorian attorneys or law enforcement officials.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, regardless of your gender, you may receive assistance from a local branch of the Commissioner’s Office for Women and Family Issues, which has a listing of their branches available on their Spanish-language website.

Emergency phone numbers in Ecuador vary by region. In Quito and Ibarra, dial 911 for all emergencies. In Guayaquil, Cuenca and Loja, the number is 112. Elsewhere, dial 101 for police,102 for firefighters or ambulance, or 131 for the local Red Cross. Operators typically speak Spanish only. Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States for crimes committed overseas.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While you are traveling in Ecuador, you are subject to Ecuadorian laws even though you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. Criminal penalties will vary from country to country. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States. For example, you can be prosecuted under U.S. law if you buy pirated goods. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is also a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Ecuador, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not where you are going.

If you are arrested in Ecuador, under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and customary international law, you have the option to request that the police, prison officials, or other authorities alert the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Outside of Quito and Guayaquil, awareness of international protocols is uneven. If you are arrested in Ecuador, request that the Ecuadorian authorities do this on your behalf. Please note, however, that the U.S. government has no authority to intervene in Ecuadorian legal matters.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal to bring back into the United States, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Drug Trafficking: Each year, approximately 20 to 25 U.S. citizens are arrested by Ecuadorian authorities for attempting to traffic drugs between Ecuador and the United States, or between mainland Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. Many of those arrested claim not to have known they were transporting drugs. Under no circumstances should you ever accept gifts, packages, or suitcases from anyone you do not trust and know well. If you are arrested for drug trafficking, you can expect to serve a lengthy period in pre-trial detention, and if convicted you will likely be sentenced to a long prison term and fined heavily. In nearly all cases, U.S. citizens convicted of drug trafficking in Ecuador must serve their sentences in Ecuador, where conditions of confinement are harsh and far below U.S. standards. 15

Retiring In Ecuador: In recent years, Ecuador has become a top overseas destination for retiring U.S. citizens. Bear in mind that organizations promoting Ecuador or any other place as a retirement destination may have a financial incentive to attract retirees, and may not always present a balanced picture. Consider multiple sources before choosing a destination.

Remain vigilant when contracting professional services for assistance with Ecuadorian visas, real estate transactions, or customs brokering for imported household effects. U.S. citizen retirees regularly complain about unethical practices by lawyers, real estate agents, and others who have taken advantage of their lack of knowledge about local language, laws, and culture, resulting in costly losses and little hope for a remedy through the local judicial system.

As in any country, Ecuadorian rules governing visas and customs are subject to change with little notice. The Ministry of Foreign Relations and other Ecuadorian government agencies publish little information in English, increasing foreigners’ reliance on lawyers or other facilitators, some of whom have distorted the true cost or requirements for obtaining Ecuadorian visas. Staff members at the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General are not in a position to give detailed advice about Ecuadorian immigration law.

Accessibility for Disabled Persons: While in Ecuador, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from U.S. standards. Although Ecuador’s constitution prohibits discrimination against the disabled, travelers with disabilities may have great difficulty traversing public walkways and accessing buildings.

Ayahuasca: Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychotropic plant, generally brewed as a tea, which has traditionally been used for religious, ritual, and medicinal purposes by the indigenous peoples of the region. It is said to elicit intense modifications in thought processes, perception, and emotion. The psychoactive ingredient is Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a drug classified as Schedule I in the United States under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “substances in this schedule have no currently accepted medical use in the United States, a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision, and a high potential for abuse.”

Ayahuasca tourism, in which shamans “guide” visitors through psychedelic rituals, is a burgeoning industry in the jungle regions of Ecuador and Peru. There is no way to thoroughly vet ayahuasca tourism operators, and if you choose to participate, please be aware of the potential risks involved. Some participants have reported adverse experiences during the rituals, including being seriously assaulted and robbed. Victims report a range of scenarios, from being alert but unable to maintain control of their surroundings, to total amnesia. In 2012, a U.S. citizen died in Peru while under the influence of the drug.

Female Travelers: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips on the Women Travelers page on Travel.State.gov.

LGBT RIGHTS: Although Ecuador’s constitution includes the principle of nondiscrimination and endorses the right to decide one’s sexuality, LGBTI persons nonetheless may face censure and discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Health Adequate medical and dental care is available in the major cities of Ecuador. In smaller communities and in the Galápagos Islands, services are limited, and the quality is generally

well below U.S. standards. Ambulances, with or without trained emergency staff, are in short supply in cities, but even more so in rural areas.

Pharmacies are readily available in any city; however, you might find that the availability of some medications is sporadic, and formulations and brand names will differ from products available in the United States. Narcotics and tranquilizers are extremely limited in availability. Pharmacists sometimes dispense medications without requesting a prescription. These individuals may have little training and often prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics. Consider any advice from them accordingly. Folk healers and traditional markets in some parts of the country offer herbal and folk remedies. You should exercise caution when exploring these remedies, as the formulations can be questionable and some components may interact with other prescription medications.

Many tropical diseases are present in Ecuador, including malaria, dengue and yellow fever (which are transmitted by mosquitoes at lower altitudes), leishmaniaisis (transmitted by sand flies), chagas disease (transmitted by triatomine bugs) and tuberculosis (transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets). To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases while at lower altitudes, use insect repellants, clothing treated with permethrin, and bed nets.

In Ecuador, yellow fever is found only in the Amazon basin. Ecuadorian authorities might require you to show a certificate of yellow fever vaccination when entering or leaving this area, or when continuing travel to other areas of South America. If possible, you should obtain a yellow fever vaccine prior to departure from the United States. You can also obtain the vaccination in Guayaquil from the Jefatura Provincial de Salud, Panama y Padre Aguirre, (tel): 04-230-3160, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The vaccine is free if you do not need an international certification; otherwise it costs $10.40. Antimalarial medication significantly reduces the risk of contracting malaria. There are no vaccines or prophylactic medications for dengue, leishmaniaisis or chagas. If you become ill with fever or flu-like symptoms during or after travel in a high-risk area, you should promptly seek medical attention. Note that the onset of these diseases may be delayed by up to a year.

You can find good information on vaccinations and other health precautions, on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.

Your Health and High Altitudes: If you travel to Quito (elevation: 9,400 feet) or other highland areas, you will typically require some time to adjust to the altitude, which can adversely affect your blood pressure, digestion, and energy level. Mountain climbers in particular should be cautioned not to underestimate the time required to adjust before beginning a challenging climb at altitude. Consult with your personal health care providers before undertaking high-altitude travel, as there are medications available to help combat the effects. If you have heart or lung problems or the sickle cell trait, you may develop serious health complications at high altitudes.

Travel & Transportation TRAFFIC AND ROAD CONDITIONS: Driving in Ecuador: Although some of Ecuador’s roads and highways have greatly improved in recent years,road travel throughout Ecuador can still be dangerous, especially at night. Some roads are poorly maintained, or affected by heavy rains and mudslides. Mountain roads may lack safety features such as crash barriers or guard rails, and conditions are frequently made more treacherous by heavy fog. Highways are often unmarked and unlit, and do not have signs indicating destinations. In addition, slow- moving buses and trucks frequently stop in the middle of the road unexpectedly. In the

17 countryside, livestock is often herded along roads or grazes on roadsides. Lacking sidewalks, many roads are also used by pedestrians.

Driving practices differ from U.S. standards, and drivers often disobey traffic laws and signals. In all areas, buses stop without warning to pick up or drop off passengers. Drivers often turn right and left from any lane and rarely yield to pedestrians and cyclists. You might encounter intoxicated drivers at any time, though the chances of a drunk-driving accident are higher on weekends and Ecuadorian holidays. On the coast in particular, many vehicles are poorly maintained and breakdowns are common.

If you are the driver of a vehicle involved in an automobile accident, even if you are not at fault, you may be taken into police custody, especially if injuries are involved or if you do not have insurance. If injuries or damages are serious, you may face criminal charges.

Driver’s Licenses: You may drive in Ecuador using your state-issued driver’s license for up to 90 days. If you are staying in Ecuador for a prolonged period, you should contact the Comision de Transito del Ecuador to obtain a valid driver’s license.

Importing a Vehicle: You should investigate local regulations before attempting to import any vehicle into Ecuador on a temporary or permanent basis. If you are able to register a vehicle in Ecuador, you will be required to buy local liability insurance, called SOAT.

Bus Travelers: Intra- and inter-city bus passengers are often targets of crime, including robbery and sexual assault. Numerous bus accidents occur every year in Ecuador, and many buses are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack seat belts or other safety features. In Guayaquil, security on public transportation is a major concern. Armed criminals have been known to board local city buses and rob passengers of jewelry, money, and other valuables. There have been instances in which routes between cities are blocked by criminals, who force the bus to stop and then board the bus to rob passengers.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Spanish-language websites of Ecuador’s national tourist office.

AVIATION SAFETY: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Ecuador’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ecuador’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

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The travel and contact information you enter into our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program will make it easier for consular officers in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to contact you and your loved ones during an emergency —including situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having problems trying to contact you with important news. Stay Safe. We believe that a well-informed traveler is a safer traveler. Our consular officers around the world compile country-specific information, travel alerts and warnings, fact sheets and emergency messages to provide you with timely and accurate travel information about every country where you may travel. We include reports on possible risks and security threats so that you can make informed decisions about your travel plans and activities.

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U.S. Embassy Quito

Ave. Avigiras E12-170 y Ave. Eloy Alfaro (next to SOLCA) Quito, Ecuador Telephone: +(593)(2) 398-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(593)(2) 398-5000 Fax: +(593)(2) 398-5100 [email protected]

CONSULATES U.S. Consulate General Guayaquil Calle Santa Ana y Av. Jose Rodriguez Bonin Sector San Eduardo, Guayaquil, Ecuador Telephone: +(593)(4) 371-7000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(593)(4) 371-7000 Fax: +(593)(4) 371-7045 [email protected]

The Consular Section in Quito is open for American Citizen Services, including registration, from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, excluding U.S. and Ecuadorian holidays. In order to provide better customer service and reduce waiting times, the American Citizen Services section in Guayaquil uses an online appointment system. Appointments are available from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Notary appointments are Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., excluding U.S. and Ecuadorian holidays. Walk-in service remains available, but customers with appointments take precedence. To make an appointment, visit the online appointment website.

* * * This replaces the Country Specific Information for Ecuador dated November 5, 2008 to update sections on Safety and Security, Crime, and Disaster Preparedness.

ECUADOR Magic by Nature or the Magic of Nature

Ecuador is located in northwestern South America, straddling the equator. Ecuador shares its northern border with Colombia and its southern and eastern borders with Peru. The Pacific Ocean lies to the west Ecuador. The presence of the Andes, maritime currents, and the Amazon Rainforest give rise to significant variations in the country’s climate. Geographically, the nation can be divided into four distinct regions: the Coast, the Highlands, the Amazon, and the Galapagos Islands. Politically, It is divided into 22 provinces. Ecuador's total area is 256,370* square kilometers and its population is over 12.5 million inhabitants.

* According to information provided by the Military Geographical Institute.

To learn more about any one of our travel destinations, click on one of the regions in our map of Ecuador shown above or, to go directly to a specific province, click on the province that interests you in our list of destination guides listed below.

TOP

Our Destination Guides:

Amazon Northern Andes Southern Andes Coast Amazon North Andes South Andes Esmeraldas Overview Overview Overview Manabí Provinces Provinces Provinces Guayas Overview Overview Overview Los Ríos Sucumbíos Carchi Cañar El Oro Napo Imbabura Azuay Pastaza Pichincha Loja Galapagos Islands Morona Cotopaxi Galapagos Santiago Tungurahua Islands Zamora Bolívar Chinchipe Chimborazo Orellana

Introduction

Straddling the equator in western South America, Ecuador has territories in both the Northern and the Southern hemispheres. It borders Colombia to the north and shares a border Peru to the south and to the east. The Pacific Ocean is Ecuador’s western border. Ecuador, 256,370 square kilometers in size, is geographically divided into four regions (the Amazon, the Highlands, the Coast, and the Galapagos Islands) and is politically split into 22 provinces, which, in turn, are split into 205 cantons. The coastal provinces (from north to south) are Esmeraldas, Manabí, Los Ríos, Guayas, and El Oro. Highlands provinces are Imbabura, Pichincha, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua and Chimborazo, in the north, and Bolívar, Cañar, Azuay and Loja, in the south. The Amazon is comprised of the provinces (from north to south) of Sucumbíos, Napo, Pastaza, Orellana, Morona-Santiago and Zamora-Chinchipe. Ecuador’s 22nd province the Galapagos Islands.

Pacific Coast

Ecuador’s coastal region (a.k.a. the western lowlands) is made up of fertile plains, rolling hills, and sedimentary basins traversed by a plethora of rivers that rush from the heights of the Andes to the Pacific Ocean. All five coastal provinces, encompassing 640 kilometers of coastline between them, have attractive beaches and plenty of hotels and resorts for tourists. Crisscrossed by an expansive network of rivers and home to the nation’s most spectacular beaches, the provinces of Esmeraldas, Manabí, and Guayas quite impressive destinations frequented by tourists from all over the world. Geographically speaking, much of this area is part of the Guayas River Basin, which has at least twelve major tributaries located primarily near the communities of Daule, Babahoyo, Macul, Puca, Paján, and Colimes.

The Highlands - The Andes & the Austro

The Andes Mountain Range crosses the country from north to south. The Occidental and the Oriental Ranges are born from this mountain system as it divides in the province of Loja, forming plains and valleys along the Andean Corridor. Between the two ranges there is a plateau which reaches heights of three thousand meters. The Highlands Regions, commonly referred to as La Sierra, is made up of ten provinces, each of which have important peaks such as Chimborazo, the Illinizas, Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Antisana.

Chimborazo: 6,310 m Cotopaxi: 5,897 m Cayambe: 5,790 m Antisana: 5,758 m Altar: 5,320 m Illiniza: 5,248 m Tungurahua: 5,023 m Cotacahi: 4,944 m

The highest peaks are found in central and northern Ecuador. From Riobamba towards the south there is a decrease in altitude and an increase in the width of the mountain range, forming a kind of plateau known as the Austro.

The Amazon Region

The Amazon Region and its five provinces can be geographically divided into two sub regions: the High Amazon and the Amazon Lowlands. The Highlands is comprised of the Andean foothills which slowly descend towards the Amazon River Basin. Here, you’ll find the Napo, Galeras, Cutucú, and Cóndor ranges. The most impressive elevated regions of this area are in the north and include Volcano Sumaco. The Lowlands, found further to east, are home to some of the nation’s most beautiful and important rivers: the Putumayo, the Napo, and the Pastaza.

Galapagos

The Archipelago of Colón (commonly known as the Galapagos Islands) is made up of 13 main islands, 17 islets, and dozens of ancient rock formations ( table: map of the islands). The volcanically formed islands, encompassing an area of 8,000 kilometers in all, lies roughly 1,000 kilometers off the coast of the Ecuadorian mainland. Apart from its beautiful beaches and unique and varied ecosystems, the Galapagos Islands are home to towering active volcanoes that reach altitudes up to 1,600 meters. 22

Ecuador Vacation Budget

In general terms, Ecuador is one of the cheapest countries in Latin America. Here you’ll find good quality food, lodging and transport at low costs compared with other countries of the region.

Daily Budget

You can survive in Ecuador with: Low-budget: from US$15 Mid-budget: from US$30 to US$60 High-budget: from US$100 and upwards

Food Budget

You can get a good meal in a good restaurant for an average price between US$5 to US$7. Still you can find good quality meals for lower prices but then you may sacrifice comfort. Nevertheless you may find some places where you can get a complete meal between US$3 to US$5. Of course, there is the luxury stile, fancy restaurants may charge US$15 and upwards for a meal.

Lodging Budget

There is a great variety of hotels and hostels in the Country which means that there is a great variety of prices too. You can find surprisingly clean and comfortable places for a range of prices between the US$5 and US$15, however, price may be a good warranty at the moment of choosing a place with all the necessary services. Most of the good hotels are between US$15 to US$70. This places have better facilities and comfort is assured. You will find also top-end hotels from US$70 and upwards.

Transportation Budget

Maybe transport is the cheapest service in Ecuador. A bus ride will cost US$0.25 and a taxi ride will cost between US$1.50 to US$5. If you want more information about transport make a click in our transport link.

Ecuador Taxes

Good quality restaurants and hotels will add a 12% tax to your bill, and another 10% for service charge.

Tips

Tourist guides, porters, waiters and other people related to the tourist industry will expect a tip from you, but taxi drivers wont.

Health in Ecuador

If you are planning a trip to Ecuador you should take some considerations on your health care. Our country's geography and climate, in certain cases may influence in the appearance of some ills. Also you should be precautious, specially in tropical areas, from diseases transmitted by insects. Last but not least, you need to be particularly cautious with respect to what you eat and drink because in some places food isn't always prepared with the best conditions of cleanness.

Weather and Altitude Sickness

Ecuador's weather is characterized for being very variable. In some places you can experience, in a single day, strong changes in temperature. This very common in the Andean region, where you can enjoy sunny mornings and electric storms followed by strong rains in the afternoon. High factor sunscreen, sunglasses and also warm clothes are recommended.In the Andean region you should be also cautious of altitude sickness. Ecuador is home to some of the highest volcanoes and mountain peaks in the world. Someone flying from New York City to Quito, for example, experiences an elevation change of nearly two miles in a little more than 6 hours. Abrupt changes in elevation such as this sometimes have ill effects on travelers.Altitude sickness usually manifests itself in insomnia, headaches, and/or nausea. To prevent altitude sickness, or to at least stave off some of its effects, ascend gradually to provide your body with time to adjust to the change. Obviously, if you are flying into Quito this will be impossible. The first thing you have to do is to avoid extreme physical efforts for the first two or three days. (Ex: running, lifting heavy objects, practicing sports) In the event that you do experience symptoms of altitude sickness, in most cases, they can be remedied by drinking lots of water, getting lots of rest, and taking aspirin.

Insects

No vaccine is required to enter Ecuador, but is good to know that in certain areas of the country, (tropical areas) exist the presence of insects that may transmit illness. The most common illness founded in tropical areas are malaria and yellow fever.

Malaria

On account of Ecuador's diverse geography, there is risk for Malaria in some parts of the country and not in others. Mosquitoes, the primary carriers of malaria, do not like heights. As a result, travelers run little risk of getting Malaria while in the mountains and mountain valleys of Ecuador's High Sierra Region. On the other hand, because mosquitoes thrive in the Ecuador's hot and humid Coastal region and the Amazon jungle lowlands, you must take the appropriate precautions while traveling in these regions.Travelers can eliminate much of the Malarial risk by taking prescription antimalarial drugs and protecting themselves against mosquito bites. You can protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent (the repellent must contain DEET), always wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and sleeping beneath mosquito nets.

Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever is a very rare cause of illness for travelers, but, if you plan on spending time in the rainforest or coastal lowlands, you should get immunized. Like Malaria, Yellow Fever is a disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Likewise, you should follow the same precautions as with Malaria. Employ insect repellent, protective clothing, and mosquito netting to minimize the risk of bites from infected mosquitoes.

Food

One of the most common problems for travelers are the effects of food and water. This may occur because of two reasons. First, food may not be prepared hygienically (food vendors, popular markets, restaurants that may not seem clean) and second, the foreign immune systems are not accustomed to some bacteria or parasites present in food. (fruits, ice, tap water). The symptoms appear as relatively mild stomach and intestinal tract problems (diarrhea and occasionally vomiting).While in Ecuador, eat only well cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself, do not eat un-pasteurized dairy products, refrain from eating food sold by street vendors, eat only in restaurants that seem clean, and avoid ice in drinks. Drinking tap water is not advisable anywhere in Ecuador, so drink only bottled or boiled water. In case of a long trip to a place where you can't buy bottled water, you should buy water- purifier pills. Water-purifiers can be found in most camping/outdoor supply stores.

Pharmacies

You can find hundred of pharmacies in urban zones. Usually, in the big cities they are open in regular business hours, and you can find many of them open 24-hours a day. Some others (usually in residential neighborhoods) operate on a rotation system - look out for an illuminated "Turno" sign outside. It's very common to find a medic in each pharmacy, and they are pretty reliable for recommending a medicine or place injections. But in case of a serious illness or symptom is better to find an specialist.

Medical Care

Good medical care is available in Quito, Guayaquil, and most of the big cities. There is a lack of hospital infrastructure in small towns but you will find health centers that provide first aids. In Quito, Guayaquil and most of the province's capital cities you will find well trained and specialized doctors, many of them bilingual. Some embassies have lists of excellent multi-lingual doctors.

Part of this information was based in the Health section of http://www.ecuadorexplorer.com/.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Ecuador

A few tips to keep you sane and safe. You should read them all before embarking on your journey through Ecuador.

Safety in Ecuador

Ecuador is considered one of the safer countries in the Andean Region, however, it is always a good idea to be cautious during your visit. Ecuador's urban centers, especially Quito and Guayaquil, are generally more dangerous than the countryside. The best way to prevent crime is using your common sense and reduce the likelihood of being a crime victim by following a few basic precautions:

Safety in the City

Travel with trustworthy companions. Find out where the unsafe sectors are and avoid them. Find out which are the best hours to visit tourist sites. Keep all important documents in a secure place, such as an inner pocket or a pouch that is hidden under a layer of clothing.

Make copies of your important documents, such as passport, travel ticket and card numbers. Leave originals in a safe box in your hotel. Keep always a copy of your passport with you. Carry travelers checks and credit cards instead of large sums of cash. Walk confidently with your head up. Never stare at the ground, it makes you look nervous and weak. When you feel unsafe listen to your instincts. If you get that feeling grab a taxi or go into a place with lots of people. Be wary of people who are too friendly too quickly, or that offer to show you around. Use your judgement. Don't wear expensive jewelry or wristwatches. They make you a target. Your cameras are also valuable, take them inside your bag or keep them out of sight. Keep an eye on your carry shoulder-bags and purses. Take them in front of you in crowded places. Keep all bags and other valuables where you can see them in restaurants, ground terminals, and other public places. Change your currency in a bank or in your hotel. Don’t do it in the street If you rent a car, park it in parking lots, don’t leave valuable objects in the car. Don’t take hitchhikers.

Safety Outside the of City

Watch out for the security terms in National Parks. Use the paths. Before getting into the sea, ask if there is any dangerous zone. Ask about the tides. If you feel that a strong current is taking you apart from the shore, swim in parallel in relation to the coast until you reach the shore. Maintain calm

Special recommendations

Avoid travelling by yourself if you plan to visit the Ecuadorian northern border (limit with Colombia). We recommend to use a travel agency’s service. At this moment subversive groups operate in Colombia, a few miles from the Ecuadorian border. Even though there hasn’t been known any cases of assaults lately, is better to prevent.

Passports

Always carry your passport while traveling in Ecuador. Police checks are semi- frequent and it may be a problem if you are caught without your documents. However, if you are staying in Quito, Guayaquil or another large city for an extended period, it is advisable that you carry only a copy of your passport. Most foreign embassies provide their citizens with an "official" copy of their passport that is recognized by Ecuadorian law. Report lost or stolen passports immediately to your embassy or consulate.

For more information about the oountry visit the website http://ecuador.travel/en

LIVING IN ECUADOR An easy written by a former program participant

Family: The Latin American concept of family is different than that of the North Americans. that is to say that the families are large and more extended. Whereas the North Americans consider family to include the nuclear: mother, father, brothers and sisters, the Latin Americans include grandparents, cousins, second cousins and in-laws. It is very common for married children to visit their parents nightly, bringing their own children along. Grandparents, especially grandmothers, are well respected by everyone in the family. Children, especially daughters, are expected to take care of their mothers until their death. Cousins are often close friends. Family members help each other out in all types of crises financial, health, etc. and are very generous with what they have. They are very welcoming, and will tell you straight off the bat that “Mi casa es su casa”, which means. Expect to meet and see extended family members on a regular basis.

Living with a Latin American family varies greatly, and perhaps one of the most influential factors is whether or not the family has a maid. Some maids live in, others work during the day and travel home at night. Those that live in are usually considered part of the family, but don’t assume that means that they are treated as equals. Many students become upset with the inferior, their families give some maids distant treatment. For example, maids eat in a separate room and arrange their schedule around family members needs, regardless of their own personal plans. You will probably find yourself being served every meal, which may seem awkward or simply just not right, but this habit is a part of the culture. Families who do not have maids usually have someone come wash their clothes weekly. Maids are from a lower socio-economic class and are paid sufficiently by their employers and their relationship with your family is a good one.

Another thing to expect is less privacy. Because of the large size of families and the smaller living quarters, family members are constantly in and out of each others rooms. Kids in the family may be unaware of your need to be alone sometimes, but this is not something to be worried about. Noise is also a factor, as Latinos love to play music and socialize almost constantly. Houses are built very close together, so it is not rare to hear neighbors conversations from your house, nor is it rare to hear their dogs or parrots. Never fear though, because this way of life quickly grows on you and silence may seem lonely after a while.

Families chosen by UCSG are very friendly and usually understand the needs of students living with them. However, girls may have some troubles as families are traditionally very protective of girls reputations. They may ask you to home by a certain hour when you go out at night, but this is all negotiable and students end up with freedom. Guys should not have any such problems. If your family doesn’t provide you with a locked drawer in which to keep you passport and money, don’t be shy to ask this is an essential they know about. A key to the house is also a good idea, so you can come and you go at your leisure.

Despite the warnings we have provided, Living with a family is really a great experience. There is absolutely no better way to learn about the culture and specially the language than from your family. They are used to students coming and knowing very little Spanish and will have all the patience in the world in the conversations. Although you may get down at times, this is natural and inevitable but it quickly passes. Chances are that you will make good friends with some of your family members so don't ever be afraid to approach them about anything. They were the ones who wanted to share their culture having you in their house.

Ann Maushammer.

L I V I N G W I T H Y O U R H O S T F A M I L Y

A U N I Q U E E X P E R I E N C E

Living with your family will be the most rewarding part of your experience. Many people travel abroad as tourists, Business people, Diplomats. But few have the opportunity to enter someone’s home and be treated as a member of the family. This means that when you leave you can take not only souvenirs but more importantly a relationship that may last a lifetime. Living with a family provides this opportunity but a lot depends on you.

Family participation is a two way experience. You can learn from the family just as they may also learn from you. However remember you bear the major responsibility as you choose to become a member of their family and not the other way around. You come to learn and not to teach. But if they show interest in learning about you and you language by all means share.

A word of caution: Since cultures differ, you must be careful as you explore not to ask questions or do things that may be considered inappropriate. For example there may be rooms in the house you may not enter , or may not be ok to help yourself to food in the refrigerator, or there might be certain topics never discussed. Remember courtesy and ethics vary from culture to culture.

HOW WILL I ADAPT?

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”

T.S Eliot

Taking risks can be both exiting and frightening. It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Set realistic goals for yourself. In addition, be willing to approach new experiences with your eyes and your mind wide open.

HOST FAMILY ADAPTATION RECOMENDATIONS

Just a reminder to International Students about respecting your host country’s customs / rules. Please be considerate of your host family’s culture in regard to the following:

Noise: Be observant of the amount of noise that is usually evident in the house, especially in case of close neighbors.

1. Visits in The House: Please ask your family before letting anyone in the house, Usually visitors of opposite sex are not allowed in bedrooms of females / male..

2. Personal Neatness: Guayaquil is usually somewhat humid. Ecuadorians are judgmental of people’s dress. Be conservative in your dress. For classes men must wear pants, shirts or T shirts, however tank tops are not permitted. Women should be more conservative in their dress since short skirts or transparent clothing will attract more attention than desired.

3. Communication: Families expect to be informed of your daily schedule (Leaving and returning time) Please make you best effort to maintain communication with them. Let them know if you have will be late or staying the night with a friend etc.

4. Drinking alcohol/ Smoking in the house: Most Host families do not allow their siblings to drink unless there is a social occasion. Exercise consideration if you smoke.

5. Privacy: The concept of privacy will more likely differ within your host family in comparison to your own. Usually bedroom doors are not kept shut and family members interact quite often during the day.

6. Opposite Sex in Your Bedroom: Reunions with people of opposite sex in the bedroom are not acceptable in Ecuadorian culture.

7. Image To Children: If there are young children in your host family, remember you will be seen as a role model by them. Please make sure you clear any doubts they or their parents might have, concerning any aspect of your culture they observe.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Your stay may be a series of exiting as well as difficult moments. Ups and downs are normal and healthy and should be expected. The important thing is to learn from the difficult moments. Here are some of the phases you may experience in adjusting to your new culture.

The honeymoon: Everything is new and exciting.

Culture shock: The excitement is gone, differences begin to emerge; questions arise about how to relate to the opposite sex and to the host family.

Surface adjustment: It’s starting to make sense. You can communicate basic ideas. You are making some friends and feeling more comfortable.

Unresolved problems: With friends or family may surface. You may Wonder why you ever came here and feel homesick.

I feel at home: You accept the new culture as just another way of living. You may not approve of it always, but you accept and understand differences.

Departure concern: You begin to sense personal changes. You have mixed feelings about returning home.

CROSS – CULTURAL SKILLS

 Tolerance for ambiguity

 Low goal/task orientation

 Open

 Open – mindedness

 Non – judgmentalness

 Emphaty

 Communicativeness

 Flexibility, adaptability

 Curiosity

 Sense of humor

 Warmth in human relationships

 Motivation

 Self – reliance

 Strong sense of self

 Tolerance for differences

 Perceptiveness

 Ability to fail

From “Survival Kit for Overseas Living” by Bob Kohls.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Maids: Most families receiving students have maids. The treatment of maids varies from household to household. However, in many instances, the relationship between the family and the hired help is very formal. The work day is often quite long for maids, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and they have short rest periods during the day. Since the work is quite demanding it is not considered appropriate for you or other guest to assign additional duties to the maid.

Meals: In many families breakfast is small. Lunch on the other hand is quite substantial. It is eaten anywhere between 12:30 and 2:00 p.m . You will probably be offered generous quantities of food, and sometimes it will result difficult to refuse your host’s family offer. The best way is always to communicate your eating habits your family. A light dinner is eaten between 7:00 and 10:00 p.m . Ecuadorian meals are well seasoned though usually not spicy . If you have specific nutritional needs, please talk to you host family about it, and they will try their best to accommodate you.

Transportation: “Busetas” or small buses offer very inexpensive transportation to areas in Guayaquil, they all charge about the same which is 0.25 cents of a dollar. Taxis are relatively inexpensive.

REGULAR TAXIS: (Yellow) Most of these taxis operate without taximeter. If they do not have meter, ask for the fare before getting into the taxi.

FAST CAR: phone 2823333

TAXI “AMIGO”: They operate by demand. Rates are higher than regular taxis and they are given upon request.

UCSG Taxi Stand PARAISO: phone 2204232-2201877-2204542 NEW YORK: 2475560-2476228- 09743587 Currency:

Ecuador’s currency is the US dollar. Bills are the same as in the USA, however, there are American and Ecuadorian coins, which have the same value.

Valuable Object:

It is recommended to keep all valuables in a safe and locked place. Please ask your host family where you can store money, passport, and other valuables

Mail:

You may have your mail sent to the following address in Guayaquil-Ecuador:

(Your Name) c/o Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil Facultad de Filosofía

Programa de Español para Extranjeros. P.O Box 09-014671 Guayaquil - Ecuador

You can mail letters at the Ecuadorian Post offices. They will weigh your letter and tell you how much it costs, however be aware it may take anywhere from 8 – 15 days to arrive to destination.

The post offices are located:

Main Post office (Aguirre y Chile) Policentro Shopping Center (Second Floor) Alban Borja Shopping Center

Telephone calls:

Domestic Calls: Rates for domestic calls are reasonable, however the costs of these calls vary substantially according to the length of time and they can become expensive for your host’s budget. You can buy a local calling card called “Contigo” de Pacifictel to make these calls from private phones. ($8.00 approximately) .

International Calls:

Rates have increased significantly over the past few years. Try to avoid international calls from your host family.

The best way to call the US is by means of a prepaid card.

 Tarjeta “Contigo de Pacifitel” (local card) approximately US$ 0.50 per minute

Other cards:

AT&T 1-800-225528 MCI 1-800-999-170 SPRINT 1-800-877-800 Rates are expensive.

The Spanish as a Foreign Language Program offer you international call services (we have our own international line which you can use when ever you want to call your parents during your stay).

Cell Phones: ______

Calls to and from a cell phone are expensive. Please talk to your family about the use of their phone to make any type of call. There are three cell phone companies Allegro, Movistar, Porta.

Public Phones: ______

There are public phones booths that work with phone cards. ($6.00 to $10.00)

Porta (Red) Movistar (Blue) CNT

Internet: ______

There are plenty of cyber cafes in the city, the average rate for an hour is approximately $1,50

Please talk with your host family, from the first day on, about what they consider appropriate regarding the use of their phone(s) and internet service (if they have one).

Exit Tax: An exit tax must be paid by everyone when flying abroad, It is US$ 27,00 dollars.

Credits Cards

DINERS – VISA- MASTER CARD- AMEXCO

 Are usually accepted in most places, however, an minimum amount charge could be demanded.

 USA American bank personal checks are not accepted.

LOCAL MAIN BANKS:

 Pacífico, (Nexo, Mastercard, Cirrus)  Banco del Pichincha, (Nexo, Plus, Cirrus, Dinners).  Banco Guayaquil, (Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Banred)  Banco Bolivariano, (Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus)

There are branches of these banks in all shopping malls.

Banco Bolivariano and Banco de Guayaquil, have a teller on campus.

EMERGENCY:

HOSPITAL CLINICA KENNEDY Av. San Jorge y la 9na. Tlef: 2286963 2292797

ON CAMPUS

GYM # 11

GIMNASIO DE LA UNIVERSIDAD CATÓLICA Machines, Aerobics, Dance classes, Spinninng, Martial Arts,

Locker room with showers

Prices: UCSG students US$ 14.00 per month

Open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

EATING ON CAMPUS

Deliccato: Main building BOPAN: El Mirador La Canchita: Football field Sweet & Coffee

SNACKS BARS

School of Engineer School of Philosophy School of Economic

INTERNET

Cyber Coffee

BOOKSTORE

Librería La Científica Librería EL CODEU

FIRST AID

Medical School Building

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Church

BUS ROUTES

LINE ROUTE Metro vía MIRAFLORES-UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA

Runs through Miraflores, Ave. Carlos JulioArosemena. It will take you to and from this area, to the Catholic University.

Metro vía URDESA – DOWTOWN

Runs the length of Victor Emilio Estrada, passes Shopping Mall Policentro Goes on to Ave. de las Americas - to – Universida Laica – on to Downtown and eventually along Malecón 2000 Riverfront.

54 URDESA – DOWTOWN

Runs the length of Victor Emilio Estrada, and continues on to La Kennedy - to - Downtown.

65 BELLAVISTA – TERMINAL TERRESTRE – BELLAVISTA Bellavista, Miraflores, Urdesa, Universidad Laica, on to, Terminal Terrestre and back.

EBENEZER BELLAVISTA- UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA- UNIVERSIDAD LAICA-TERMINAL TERRESTRE

Mini busses run from Bellavista, Universidad Católica, 9 de Octubre, Universidad Estatal, Universidad Laica, Aeropuerto, Terminal Terrestre and back.

48 UCSG – Malecon 2000 – UCSG

BUSSES FOR THE SHOPPING CENTERS FROM UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA

Río Centro Ceibos: Cooperativa Chongón Albán Borja: Florida Norte Policentro, San Marino: Ebenezer + Taxi Mall del Sol: Ebenezer + Taxi

++++ ROUTES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE++++