Protests in Quito have contributed to the mid-term ouster of Ecuador's last three democratically elected Presidents. In September 2008, voters approved a new constitution; Ecuador's twentieth since gaining independence. General elections, under the new constitutional framework, were held in April 2009.These days it is quite stable, and ready to show you a good time. Which of these sites would you most like to visit?
Ecuador is located in Western South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean at the Equator, between Colombia and Peru. The terrain ranges from coastal plain (costa) to inter-Andean central highlands (sierra), and flat to rolling eastern jungle (oriente). The people are friendly and welcoming, and would love to show you the sites of their homeland. Which location in Ecuador would you most like to visit?
Cotopaxi, located in the Ecuadorian Andes is highest active volcano in world. It is only one of the many great attractions in the country which draw tourists. There are lots of other great sites to explore in Ecuador the next time you visit. Which of these great sites would you most like to check out with a team of experienced and friendly local guides?
What is now Ecuador formed part of the northern Inca Empire until the Spanish conquest in 1533. Quito became a seat of Spanish colonial government in 1563 and part of the Viceroyalty of New Granada in 1717. The territories of the Viceroyalty - New Granada (Colombia), Venezuela, and Quito - gained their independence between 1819 and 1822 and formed a federation known as Gran Colombia. These days, the region is known as Ecuador. Which of its great sites would you most like to visit?
When Quito withdrew from the territories in 1830, the country became the "Republic of the Equator." Between 1904 and 1942, Ecuador lost territories in a series of conflicts with its neighbors. A border war with Peru that flared in 1995 was resolved in 1999. Although Ecuador marked 25 years of civilian governance in 2004, the period has been marred by political instability. These days it is safe to visit with many sights to see. Which one would you most like to take in for yourself?
Morocco's internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country in 1956. Morocco virtually annexed Western Sahara during the late 1970s, but final resolution on the status of the territory remains unresolved. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature, which first met in 1997. These days the country is still ruled by a king. Which of hist wonderful possessions would you most like to visit?
Vietnam is no longer the site of serious jungle warfare. Rather, the country has developed, since the cease of American hostilities there, towards something of a western democratic ideal, with capitalist businesses flourishing and the local population healthy and well fed. Which of these idyllic locations in Vietnam would you most like to visit on your next trip there?
England seized Jamaica in 1655 and established a plantation economy based on sugar, cocoa, and coffee. The abolition of slavery in 1834 freed a quarter million slaves, many of whom became small farmers. Jamaica gradually obtained increasing independence from Britain. These days it is a free, democratic country and it's people are warm and welcoming of visitors. Which great location on Jamaica would you most like to visit for yourself?
In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, successive Moorish dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad Al-Mansur (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. Many architectural remnants of this golden age are still there for the savvy tourist to visit. Which site in Morocco would you most like to see for yourself?
Vietnam was, at one time, a virtual nightmare of machine gun strafing, bombing runs, and other military atrocities. However, in the years since conflict ended, it has arisen from its humbled slumber and become a vibrant and rewarding tourist destination. It is full of happy and hospitable people who look forward to showing you around. Which of these great sites would you prefer that they take you to see?
