Accommodation in Quito
The first night's (arrival day Saturday) accommodation in Quito is in a shared twin or triple room at the volunteer house, which is located in the lively neighbourhood La Mariscal surrounded by restaurants and bars. The house has a spacious living room with a TV, DVD and a comfy sofa, a big table to eat with all your housemates and a great kitchen that is fully equipped for you to cook your meals. You will also be staying at the volunteer house if you choose to participate in the Intro Week in Quito.
Accommodation in Puerto Lopez
The volunteer cabins with dorm-style beds are located on the family grounds of the organizer of the soccer project. You will not actually be living with the family, but will be on the same premises. The wooden cabins are basic, with a private bathroom in each cabin. There is a social area in a bigger cabin, where meals are also served. Accommodation is basic and it is your duty to keep your living area clean.
You can choose this project with or without an arrival transfer. This project is available with or without an arrival transfer from Quito Airport to your accommodation. Arrival transfer is included with the Intro Week, if you choose that option.
How to Get to the Project:
A transfer from your accommodation in Quito to the bus station is provided, from there you take a direct bus at 8:00 to Puerto Lopez which arrivea around 18:00. The ticket will be bought for you in advance, you just need to pay the cost back to the volunteer coordinator in Quito, it costs between USD 8-10. When you arrival to Puerto Lopez, you should take a moto taxi and say at driver “Quiero ir a la escuela de español de Freddy Soto”. The cost for take a taxi is $2.
3 meals a day while at the project are included on weekdays, and on Saturdays only breakfast is included. All meals served are in coastal Ecuadorian style so lots of rice, beans and fish.
Climate
The climate on the coast is hot and humid. The weather can change, however, it is often quite hot and sunny. Rainy season runs from January to April.
What to Bring
Lightweight, long & fast-drying work trousers
Shorts
Short-sleeved & long-sleeved shirts
Work gloves
Rubber boots
Rain jacket
Cardigan
Sunglasses
Sunblock
Swimwear
Mosquito repellent
Small daypack
Prescription medication (if applicable)
Flashlight/torch