==============================
           ECUADOR
==============================

Ecuador is an Andean country
situated in the northwest of
South America. It is bounded
to the north by Colombia and
to the east and south by Peru.
The country contains over
thirty active volcanoes. The
climate varies from equatorial
through warm temperate to
mountain conditions, according
to altitude. In the coastal
plains plantations of bananas,
cocoa, coffee and sugar cane
are found. In contrast to
this, the highland areas are
adapted to grazing, dairying
and cereal growing. The
fishing industry is important
on the Pacific Coast. Oil
produced in the tropical
eastern region is Ecuador's
most important export.
Ecuador spans the equator and
has little seasonal variation.
The warmest and therefore
busiest months for beach
holiday's are from December to
May.

Area (Sq. Km.): 283,560

Population: 10,782,000

Capital: Quito

Language:
Spanish

Religion:
Roman Catholic 95%

Government Type:
Republic

Currency: Sucre

Embassy:
3 Hans Crescent,
London,
SW1X 0LR
0171-584-1367

«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»

Foreign Office Advice:

There has been a serious
upsurge in the number of
reported cholera cases both
along the coast and in Sierra.
Travellers should observe a
strict regime of personal
hygiene, drink only bottled
water and avoid the cheaper
restaurants and street food
vendors. Fruit and vegetables
should be thoroughly washed in
sterilised water before
consumption. There is also an
outbreak of Dengue fever in
the Esmeraldas area.

The police and military make
random security checks. Carry
identification at all times.
Travellers must take sensible
precautions and not carry
large amounts of money or wear
jewellery. If threatened, do
not resist.

In Quito, visitors should not
walk up or down the steps to
the Panecillo. Travel as a
group and take a taxi which
should be asked to wait. The
historical centre is full of
pickpockets. Avoid travelling
on roads outside the main
cities at night.

For more information ring:

 Foreign Office Travel Unit

       0171-270-4129