new year in Quito

I went to Quito for new year.. some of it was really good fun and some was surprisingly quiet.  The main streets were full of stages and music and rammed with people, but only til about 8 oclock and then everyone goes home to be with their family, or to church.  Then at midnight they´re all out again making a bonfire in the street.  They get these maniquins called manigotes, dress them up like politicians and burn them.  There were about 6 fires in our street alone and everyone was shaking our hands and saying feliz año.. it was really sweet.  They then start hurling insults at the old year and telling how the new one will be loads better!

I tried to make a bit of a video, but after my camera was stolen I had to do it on my phone; anyway, if its any good I´ll put it on here.. I also made one down in the jungle in an attempt to inspire all the snowbound teflers still doing there course. Hope it works out.. meanwhile, happy new year to everyone! I hope you all had a really cool time.

Now I´m in the bus terminal waiting 2 hours for my bus.. then it´s about 14 hours back to Loja! Not looking forward to it, but it was worth it cos I´ve had such a great holiday.

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