| Porto Alegre, the largest city in the south of Brazil, is the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The city was founded in 1742 by immigrants from the Azores. Since the 19th century the city has received numerous German and Italian Scot settlers. Lying as it does at the junction of five rivers; it has become an important port as well as one of the chief industrial and commercial centers in Brazil. Products of the rich agricultural and pastoral hinterland, such as leather, canned beef, and rice, are exported from Porto Alegre to destinations as far away as Africa and Japan It is a city of striking beauty and stark contrasts. Sebastian de Ben alcazar founded Quito in 1534. If he were to walk the streets of Old Town today, he might still feel right at home. Many of the original colonial structures here have been magnificently preserved and restored. your travel to Quito, you will have a chance to explore the historical Old Town, with its churches and plazas. Feel like being in the center of the earth. Well, its just 45 minutes from Quito. Don't forget to visit the Cotopaxi National Park. The Cotopaxi is the world's highest mountain and also one of the most active volcanoes.Dump the idea of filling your shopping bags with clothes and fill them with the traditional handicrafts of the Ecuadorian people instead. Alpaca sweaters, figurines, tapestries, hats and jewellery - you will find these products in the arts and crafts market held in weekends. Don't be disappointed if you can't be present in the weekends, you will get your favorite items in the Exedra, Galeria Aymara, Galeria Latina, LaPosta Art Form and the Olga Fisch Folklore. You will get cuisines from all around the world to satisfy your hunger pangs. In the New Town, the La Vina serves the best international cuisine. If you are looking for the Chinese dishes, then ask for "Chifas" because that is how the local people refer to the Chinese restaurants as. The Theatrum Quito Fine Restaurant & Wine Bar is a place where you can expect to get a feel of the culture of Quito along with the taste. Indian food is available in places like Chandani Tandoori and the Hare Krishna. If you are really thirsty for alcoholic drinks. The Guapulo area has some great Cafes and bars to keep you munching and drinking. |
