Ibarra: The White City of Ecuador

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dyohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/de nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-syahs]
• Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Lo siento
  [dees-kool-pe/loh syen-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyen-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
• Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dyah (dee-ehs)]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
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• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
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• 2Dos
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• 3Tres
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• 4Cuatro
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• 5Cinco
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• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
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• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ....)]

Ibarra, also known as 'La Ciudad Blanca' (The White City), was founded on September 28, 1606, by Cristóbal de Troya. The city was established during the Spanish colonization of Ecuador and named after Miguel de Ibarra, the president of the Royal Audience of Quito. The city's foundation was a strategic move to consolidate Spanish control over the region.

One of the most significant events in Ibarra's history is the devastating earthquake that struck the region on August 16, 1868. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 6.7, caused widespread destruction and claimed thousands of lives. The city was almost entirely destroyed, but the resilience of its inhabitants led to a remarkable rebuilding effort that shaped the modern layout of Ibarra.

Following the 1868 earthquake, Ibarra underwent a significant period of reconstruction. With the help of the Ecuadorian government and international aid, the city was rebuilt with improved infrastructure and architecture. This period also marked the emergence of a more diverse and vibrant cultural scene, as Ibarra began to attract settlers from various parts of Ecuador and beyond.

Ibarra is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which is showcased through various festivals and traditions. The 'Fiesta de los Lagos,' celebrated in September, is one of the city's most famous events, featuring parades, music, and traditional dances. Another significant celebration is the 'Semana Santa' (Holy Week), which includes elaborate processions and religious ceremonies, reflecting the deep-rooted Catholic traditions of the region.

In recent decades, Ibarra has experienced significant economic growth and modernization. The city's economy has diversified, with agriculture, commerce, and tourism playing vital roles. Ibarra's strategic location near the Pan-American Highway has facilitated trade and connectivity, making it a key hub in the northern highlands of Ecuador. Modern amenities, hotels, and restaurants have flourished, catering to both locals and visitors.

Ibarra is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and forests. The Yahuarcocha Lake, located just outside the city, is a popular destination for water sports and leisure activities. The Imbabura Volcano, an iconic landmark, offers hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. The city's commitment to eco-tourism is evident in its numerous parks and reserves, promoting sustainable travel and environmental conservation.

Ibarra is located in the northern part of Ecuador, about 115 kilometers from Quito, the capital. The most common way to reach Ibarra is by bus from Quito's Terminal Carcelén. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi or use ride-sharing services for a more comfortable journey. For those driving, the Pan-American Highway (E35) connects Quito to Ibarra, offering a scenic drive through the Andean highlands.

Ibarra has a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the city and its surroundings. Local buses are frequent and inexpensive, providing access to most parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through mobile apps. For a more leisurely exploration, consider renting a bicycle to enjoy the city's parks and lakeside areas. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the nearby attractions at your own pace.

The official currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Ibarra, but it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to rural areas where ATMs might be scarce.

Ibarra is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel location, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and stay vigilant in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. The neighborhoods around the central market and bus terminal can be busier and may require extra caution. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Ibarra has local police stations and medical facilities available to assist tourists. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs. While there are no strict dress codes, showing respect for religious practices is appreciated. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight nod of the head can also be a respectful gesture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Ibarra like a local, visit the bustling markets where you can find fresh produce and traditional Ecuadorian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their city. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Lago Yahuarcocha, a beautiful lake with historical significance. For an authentic experience, try the local specialty, 'helado de paila,' a traditional ice cream made in bronze pans.