Anyone Been To Quito, Ecuador?
 

Of course the place has just been pummeled by an earthquake, so it's been drawn to attention:

Ecuador earthquake: Death toll rises to 233 - BBC News

Have you been there and how's the life there?



The weather is good and with over 9000ft above sea level, the air is also very fresh. However, is the crime still a big issue?

the sky is falling!!!!

Amazing city and as with any third world country it is a very laid back city with a very "poor" population as most cities that size. The people are very friendly and welcoming. Crime is low and typical common sense goes a long way. Violent crime is very rare and most incidents tourists experience are the snatch and grab type (leave your camera on the table at an outdoor cafe and someone runs by and grabs it) or pickpocketing.

Really? I heard the exact opposite....

Yes 10 years ago, from memory, Quito - springboard for Galapagos Islands.

Well, you heard but I have been there so now you are hearing something different from me. :thumbsup

Sorry dude, you are DEAD wrong. Unless you are local the crime is very very bad. Most "snatches" are done with knife, and are full on robberies. There are kidnappings, and most people don't go anywhere if they're not in a group. Walking after dark in the colonial area will assuredly get you mugged.

Expats, even people who are fluent in Spanish and have been there for years, go everywhere with drivers they know, or in groups.

Police have very little success despite a crackdown in the colonial area. Quito is a great city, but it is no haven. Also, with Correa on his third 6 year term, and his full throated support of Maduro, everyone is waiting to see whether he'll transition out or "stay in power".