Guayaquil, Ecuador

• Most people come to Guayaquil for one reason: catching a flight to the Galápagos. It's Ecuador's biggest city and sits at sea level on the Guayas River. Crime is a real concern here - even Ecuadorians from other cities will tell you to be careful.
• The waterfront tourist strip (Malecón 2000, Las Peñas, Puerto Santa Ana) has heavy police presence during the day and feels reasonably safe. The rest of the city needs more caution. Almost no one speaks English outside the tourist zone and expensive Samborondón hotels.
• It's hot and humid year-round, typically 77-90°F. No altitude adjustment needed like in Quito, but the sticky heat takes getting used to. The city gets quiet early - locals head home by 10pm even in safer areas, leaving empty streets.
• Use Uber or registered taxis only, never flag down cabs on the street. The Metrovía bus system runs during the day but pickpockets work the crowds. If you're just passing through to the Galápagos, a safe hotel near the airport makes more sense than exploring the city.

Spanish is the main language. Very little English spoken outside tourist areas and upscale hotels in Samborondón. Emergency services (112) may have some English-speaking operators. Tourist police can provide assistance if you request transfer at 911.

• The coast is way less conservative than the highlands. Sleeveless tops, shorts, sandals - all fine for the heat. Just cover up a bit for churches.
• Almost no English outside the tourist zone and fancy Samborondón hotels. Learn basics: hola, gracias, disculpe, dónde está. Download Google Translate offline.
• People are polite and somewhat formal. Say buenos días/tardes when entering shops, restaurants, taxis. Handshake and eye contact for first meetings. Use Señor/Señora unless they invite you to use first names.
• Lunch runs 12-2pm, dinner after 7pm typically. Ecuadorians tend to be more reserved than in other South American countries - not unfriendly, just quieter and less openly warm than, say, Colombians.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. ECU 911 (police, ambulance, fire): 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Use Uber or Cabify - both work well here, you get a set price upfront, and there's a record of the trip. Especially important at night.
• The Metrovía bus system runs north-south and east-west for under a dollar, but it gets packed during rush hour and pickpockets are a problem. Hide your phone and valuables completely. Daytime only.
• Don't flag down yellow taxis on the street - robberies happen. If you need a regular taxi, have your hotel call a registered one. Still, Uber is the better option.
• Only walk in the tourist areas (Malecón 2000, Las Peñas, Puerto Santa Ana) during the day. Even there, head back before sunset and stay on main streets.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Guayaquil with local guides and curated experiences.