La Carolina: The Green Heart of Quito

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/de nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-as]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pear-dohn/loh see-en-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh es-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-en. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh en-tee-en-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [may goos-tah-ree-ah ver el meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• 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
  [may goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llame a la Policía!
  [yah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llame a un doctor!
  [yah-meh ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [eh-stoy pear-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [eh-stoy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [may goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-to kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh es moo-ee kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har el pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah es]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [es lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Son las diez y media
  [son lahs dyehs ee meed-yah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

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

La Carolina was established in the mid-20th century as one of Quito's modern neighborhoods, designed to accommodate the growing urban population. It is named after the nearby Parque La Carolina, which was created in 1945, transforming the area into a vibrant urban center for leisure and recreation.

During the 1970s and 1980s, La Carolina became a focal point for urban development in Quito. The construction of high-rise buildings and commercial spaces contributed to the neighborhood’s reputation as a hub of economic activity. This era saw the introduction of modern amenities and infrastructure, catering to the needs of a rapidly urbanizing population.

La Carolina is home to Parque La Carolina, one of Quito's largest parks, which hosts various cultural events, sports activities, and community gatherings. The park symbolizes the blend of nature and urban life, reflecting the Ecuadorian ethos of valuing outdoor spaces for recreational and social activities.

In recent years, La Carolina has become a gastronomic hotspot, featuring a diverse array of restaurants and cafes that showcase both local and international cuisines. Additionally, cultural spaces and art galleries have emerged, fostering a creative community that highlights the artistic talents of Ecuador.

As La Carolina continues to evolve, it has experienced gentrification, attracting a mix of affluent residents and professionals. This transformation has sparked discussions about urban identity, affordability, and the preservation of local culture amidst rapid development.

La Carolina is centrally located in Quito and can be easily accessed from other neighborhoods. The best way to reach La Carolina is by using the Ecovía bus system, which connects major areas of the city. You can board the Ecovía at various stations, such as Quitumbe or Río Coca, and get off at the 'La Carolina' station. Taxis are also a convenient option, and ride-hailing apps like Uber operate in the city. If you prefer a more scenic route, consider walking or biking, as La Carolina is pedestrian-friendly and offers beautiful parks.

La Carolina is well-connected through public transport options, including buses, the Ecovía, and the newly expanded Metro system. The nearest metro station is 'La Carolina', providing quick access to other parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented from various points in the area, and bike lanes make it safe to explore. Walking is also a viable option, especially to visit attractions like Parque La Carolina and the nearby shopping areas. For longer distances, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available.

La Carolina is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially near the parks. Areas like El Ejido and some parts of the Historic Center may have higher crime rates, so remain vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spaces and use reputable transportation options. It is advisable to stay informed about local news and updates regarding safety.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Ecuador. The nearest hospital is Hospital Metropolitano, located a short taxi ride away. It is advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. For minor health issues, pharmacies in La Carolina are well-stocked with over-the-counter medications. Always keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, suitable for both the weather and activities. Avoid overly flashy jewelry. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting churches; modest attire is appreciated. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for those in need, including the elderly and pregnant women. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a simple 'Hola'. Don't assume familiarity; maintain a respectful distance initially. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food in markets and restaurants. Don't drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.

To experience La Carolina like a local, visit the parks, especially Parque La Carolina, where you can join in on sports and leisure activities. Explore the local markets for fresh produce and unique Ecuadorian products. Engage with locals in cafes and restaurants; they are often willing to share insights about the area. Don't miss the nearby Quicentro shopping mall for a mix of local and international brands. Try to participate in local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them.