The joy of traveling

A trip lasts forever. It stays etched as a happy moment in our memory, and at any moment, rises to the surface: when we look at the pictures, laugh at the videos, put on that funny hat or use the mug that we bought in that unforgettable plaza.

One of Ecuador's most famous artisanal markets is Otavalo, an hour north of the capital city Quito, in Imbabura province. This multicultural town brings together a number of attractive elements, combining heritage sites, traditional festivals and typical food. The market, which has been held for decades on the festive Plaza de Ponchos, evokes the bright colors and striking patterns of Andean culture, with textiles featuring images in different tones and textures.

Some 30 minutes to the north, in the same province, is the town of Cotacachi. Nestled in the foothills of the volcano of the same name, this is an obligatory stop in any tour of the lakes of this region. Although the main attraction is still Cuicocha lake, in recent years, Cotacachi residents have worked hard to make the town into an icon of leather fashion. Along 10 de Agosto street are rows of shops exhibiting the latest trends in clothing and footwear; the creativity of the local leather craftsmen is also apparent in bags, coin purses, belts and even keychains made of this material.

But if you perhaps prefer other options, you can also find unique souvenirs that are world renowned. This is the case of the carvings made from the tagua nut, known as "vegetable ivory", which have been sold internationally for over 50 years. Although its primary use has traditionally been for making buttons, in recent decades local artisans have found in this material a mold on which they can shape their imaginations.

The tagua nut is extracted from a palm tree that is found primarily in the provinces of Esmeraldas and Manabi. And although the ornaments made of this material are full of life, Afro-Esmeraldan hands have focused their designs on fashioning tools for hunting, fishing, and cooking, like the mate — a utensil used to drink water — or the catanga — a tool for catching fish and river shrimp.

Nevertheless, if we are talking about international recognition, we cannot leave out the Panama Hat, made of toquilla straw. Its production dates back over 100 years, and it is made of a natural fiber that belongs to the cyclanthaceae family, a plant native to Ecuador. The manufacturing process is 100% by hand, and nearly always involves an entire family of artisans, thus passing on their know-how from generation to generation. Currently, the finest hats are found in Manabi, as its residents have not only maintained the tradition, but have introduced innovations in design and colors, taking the classic sombrero and making it into a haute couture accessory, while maintaining the coolness and lightness that these hats are known for.

We can also find places that remain in our memories, not only due to their natural beauty, but because of their aromas. This is what happens when we visit beautiful Loja. Hidden among its valleys is an unequalled recipe for producing one of the best high-altitude coffees in the world. With an acceptable acidity and excellent volume, and an intense and well-balanced sweetness, savoring this drink is a pleasure for the palate. Smells can awaken new sensory experiences, which is why a visit to the Cacao Museum in Quito is also worthwhile. Once here, we are transported back to the 1950s when the cacao or 'golden bean enjoyed its boom. The tour includes a sampling of the different flavors and aromas of this product. At the end of the tour, you will not only find the highest quality chocolates for sale, but also artisanal candles, soap made of cocoa butter and essential oils, cacao liquor, marmalades and other chocolate-themed surprises.

Our final stop is the wonderful province of Azuay, home to the perfect destination for lovers of jewelry: Chordeleg. This small town is located an hour east of Cuenca, and is famous for its fine silver and gold jewelry.

Surely part of the pleasure of traveling is simply to have a story to tell, something exciting, fun, romantic, unforgettable. This triggers our sense of nostalgia, the memories soar, a smile comes to our face. And we might even let out a sigh...