The greatness that is Imbabura

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I decided to travel to the Imbabura province during some time off. I headed towards Ibarra, which is the capital of the Imbabura province. “The White City” (Ibarra) lies at the foot of the Imbabura Volcano. It’s 115 km northeast of Quito, but it takes like 3 hours to get there from Quito (because of the roads and the mountains but mostly due to the fact that the bus stops for every single person even though the bus is completely full). I was super impressed when I got there, it’s a very attractive and clean city. Ibarrarenos (people from Ibarra) are friendly and welcoming. I spent most of my time in the downtown area (Old town). I explored the area by foot, admiring the many parks, churches and the cathedral. There was an earthquake in 1868 that destroyed the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city. Locals call it "The White City" because the majority of the buildings in the Old Town are white.

Typical Ibarra treats: “Helado de Paila”, “Arrope de Mora” and “Nogadas”. Well this was probably my favorite part about going to Ibarra haha… food! “Helado de Paila” is handmade ice cream; which is produced in front of customers. They use a large bronze pan surrounded by ice shavings. The natural flavors are stirred into the pan to freeze. I got chocolate and mora (blackberry), I love learning about new cultures! 😊 The Indigenous people of Ibarra started making this in the Incan times. They used to make this ice cream using the snow from the Imbabura Volcano. “Arrope de Mora” is Blackberry syrup (delicious goodness). “Nogadas” are almonds mixed with this sugary substance.

Ibarra I headed towards Laguna San Pablo, which is the biggest lake in the Imbabura province. This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains and the “Volcan Imbabura”. This place is a great retreat for Quitenos, because of its proximity to the big city. When The people working at and staying in “Jatuncocha Hosteria”, were friendly and welcoming.

If in the Imbabura province on a Saturday morning, the Otavalo market is a must. The creative and smily folk of the area sell everything from crafts to food. The market seems to go on forever.

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Photos

Laguna San Pablo
Self portrait when kayaking... (Im so multi tasked! lol)

Comments

[lorenkahle]

Really nice pictures and blog! Are you there for mission work? It sounds like you enjoy every minute of your travels. That is teriffic. I've been to Lima, Peru years ago visiting my cousins who are missionaries and translate the bible to people in the jungle. ~ Loren Kahle, Orlando, FL

[mike]

just venting
those damn spaniards !!!!

[Jeh Jeh]

MIKE!!!
LOL... mike you are so bad hahahaha