Today, I woke up, got dressed and had breakfast. For breakfast, I had fresh bread, a banana and freshly squeezed maracuya (a native spanish fruit - I'm not sure how to say it in English). YUM! After breakfast, I headed to school. In class, we talked about various grammar rules, and the United States congress, the weather, the marriage expectations in Ecuador, and many other things. At about 10 am, we went up stairs for La Plausa . . its a break in the middle of the school day. We had a very interesting fruit, one that I had not seen before, it was rather delicious. I have pictures included below. After we were done with classes and everything, we went out into the city to explore! We went to a church called La Basilica. It carries major significance to the city of Quito, Ecuador. You can see the church from multiple corners of the city. Within the city, you can climb a set of stairs that grants you view of the majority of the city -- it is very beautiful! That concludes my day in a nutshell . .
Here is a little info on the church we visited earlier today . .
"The Basilica del Voto Nacional, took more than a hundred years to build (the first stone was laid on July 10, 1892) is one of the last samples of ideology and partisanship by the Catholic Church, followingthe request for Garcia Moreno president of Ecuador that is dedicated to the Heart of Jesus.
Father Julio Maria Matovelle urged the building, so that large tracts of land were purchased in San Juan Hill, and today dominates the city and the historic center. The project was contracted in France with the architect Emilio Tarlier, who, inspired by the cathedral in Bourges, drew up the plans between 1890 and 1896.
From virtually every corner of the city, the largest Gothic Basilica in Ecuador and throughout Latin America, is visible. One of the most beautiful churches in the city, adorned with gargoyles inspired by the country's wildlife such as armadillos, iguanas, Galapagos tortoises, etc..Because of its quality, the murals inside and the stained glass windowsmade in Barcelona, worth a look.
If you are not afraid of heights and want to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Quito old and new, can climb the stairs to the main tower. Each section offers spectacular views of a city in continuous growth. And from a height of 117 meters."
It has been majorly challenging for me because I haven't taken a Spanish class in over a year! Here in Quito, there is nothing but Spanish spoken! I am so glad to be accompanied by other students from SIUE . . it feels like a blessing to have a few people who can understand what you are saying -- haha! :) Nonetheless, it has been a wonderful experience. My host family is the greatest. They are all great and very helpful! :)
Another thing .. the city is so fast paced! Back home, cars stop for pedestrians . . here in Quito . . its like playing Frogger . . pedestrians have to stop for cars, and make very informed and precise decisions when crossing streets.
