Offer
Premium Members Receive 1 Spa Treatment or 1 Horseback Riding Session, Additional 30-minute Private Pickleball Instruction/Evaluation Plus Deluxe Welcome Basket & Bouquet of Roses in Your Suite
About Singles Spa & Pickle Ball Retreat
Calling all Pickleball Players! Are you craving something new and adventurous? Try our Singles Pickleball Hotel Takeover in Ecuador! Spend the week with 16 other single, pickleball fans, honing your skills and learning from our USPTA Pro. We’ll enjoy each other’s company with added sightseeing and activities such as hiking, salsa dancing and optional horseback riding or spa treatments to soothe our muscles. Enjoy your own luxury suite equipped with a kitchenette, private terrace, living room and spacious bathroom. Our ALL LUXURIES INCLUDED package is an unbeatable value!
Discover the atmosphere and culture of Ecuador along with unlimited Pickleball play at our luxurious Spa & Polo Club property. Singles Travel International is taking over the entire resort for an ALL SINGLES EVENT! Our event is hosted by USPTA Certified Pickleball Pro Robert Fernandez Bucheli not far from the picturesque city of Quito, Ecuador. Designed exclusively for pickleball players of all levels, this immersive experience offers a unique blend of incredible instructional and open play on professional pickleball courts, insightful education from a certified pro, and luxurious relaxation in a South American paradise.
In addition to honing your skills as a player, we’ll have the afternoons for site-seeing, exploring, hiking, horseback riding and spa indulgences! The upscale La Palma Polo Club is perfectly located in the tranquil valley outside Quito and will be our Ecuadorian ‘home away from home’. Savor the tranquility and bliss of the Andes in a week packed with exhilarating play with a perfect blend of excursions, culinary treats and unique experiences you’ll be talking about for a lifetime!
Our local concierge team will be sharing their passion for Ecuador, answer any questions and keep the fun building all week!
Exclusive Singles Travel International Benefits:
- All Premium Members Receive 1 Spa Treatment or 1 Horseback Riding Session, Additional 30-minute Private Pickleball Instruction/Evaluation Plus Deluxe Welcome Basket & Bouquet of Roses in Your Suite
- Round-trip Airport Transfers from Quito Airport to our Resort
- Expert and Professional Assistance
- Virtual Pre-Trip Get-Together to get to know one another and create clarity for memebrs on the tour.
- Free Membership to our online Community and live, virtual events to connect with singles ages 50+ all year round!
- Private and Secure Chat Reserved Exclusively for Members on Your Vacation
- Fit & Willing to Travel Commitment signed by all members assures a mutually respectful environment.
Inclusive Features of our Tour:
- 7 Nights, ALL SINGLES, Luxury Suite Accommodations in Your Own Space™ at the La Palma Polo Club
- All Taxes and Service Fees (24%)
- 20 Meals: All Breakfasts, Lunches and Gourmet Dinners
- 24+ Hours On-Court Training and Open Play for each Player
- 30-Minute Small Group Instruction and Evaluation Session
- The Pickleball Playbook
- Video Recorded Pickleball Sessions
- Photos while Playing and Touring
- Daily Excursions & Group Activities According to the Daily Itinerary
- Private Guides for all Included Excursions via Modern, Air Conditioned Coaches
- Ecuadorian Canelazo Cocktail, Wine & Chocolate Tasting, and Salsa Socials
- Restorative Visit to the Odorless Thermal Springs of Papallacta
- All ticket and transportation costs for itinerary excursions
- Special Attention from our gracious hosts at La Palma Polo Club and our USPTA Pros!
- Company of Other Pickleball Playing Singles!
Our pickleball program is directed by Robert Bucheli, a longtime Singles Travel International Host in Ecuador and USPTA Certified Pickleball Instructor. After over a decade of teaching as an Elite Tennis Pro, Robert has caught the Pickleball bug and created professional pickleball courts in his family’s home of Ecuador. The only thing he loves more than getting on the court is sharing the delights of this beautiful country, as he’s done with Singles Travel International Adventure Tours for years. As your host on and off the courts, Robert will have you learning, laughing and loving every minute of this incredible luxury experience.
Inclusive features are subject to revision at the discretion of the local staff. Ages listed are not meant as a restriction, but are simply used as a guideline. Singles Travel International does not guarantee the number of guests, ages or ratios.
Itinerary
Tour Begins in Quito, Ecuador (UIO) on March 9, 2024 and Ends March 16, 2024.
Day 1 – Saturday (March 9)
Welcome to Ecuador (D)
Upon arrival, you’ll exit customs to be greeted by your driver. Travel to the luxurious La Palma Polo Hotel, where you’ll be welcomed and guided to your room. Guests arriving in the afternoon may enjoy the many onsite amenities before joining the group for a Welcome Dinner and Orientation at about 7:00 PM. Meet your Singles Travel Concierge and fellow travelers. Our friendly, professional welcome will have you relaxed in no time and we’ll answer any last minute questions about the week’s itinerary.
Day 2 – Sunday (March 10)
La Palma Polo Hotel (B, L, D)
Today we’ll kick off our morning routine of 90-minute Pickleball Clinic, followed by 30-minute Q&A with the Pros and 2-hour Open Play. We’ll plan all our court time in the morning so that you are free for other activities in the afternoon. Staying in one location for our first day gives us the opportunity to socialize and learn Pickleball Strategies from the Playbook. We’ll give every person a Playbook with tips, techniques, and activities. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a special treat of Empanadas and Coffee!
We invite you to sign up for individual or small group sessions to work on a specific technique or aspect of the game. These sessions will be recorded for guests to have access to.
This evening our pro, Robert, will stay onsite after dinner for a social Trivia Night, sharing a warm canelazo for dessert.
Day 3 – Monday (March 11)
Pickleball Plus Chiche Canyon (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we’ll enjoy an invigorating morning of pickleball followed by lunch in the heart of the Chiche Canyon.
We’ll kick off our pickleball training with a 90-minute Instructional Clinic on the Court followed by a 30-minute Q&A with the Pros and 60-minutes of Open Play.
After showers we’ll transport players to the heart of the canyon where we’ll dine on steaks cooked on volcanic stone, wood-fired pizzas and refreshing salads. Everyone is welcome to sit back and enjoy a beer, or walk around the base of the canyon, taking in the beautiful sights.
We’ll return to La Palma at 3 pm so players can get back on the court at 4 for some additional Open Play before dinner.
Day 4 – Tuesday (March 12)
Pickleball Plus Tour of the Equator (B, L, D)
After pickleball and lunch we’ll take off on an adventure to see the magical sites at the middle of the world. We’ll travel about 60 minutes to the equator line where everyone can see the natural effects of nature on weight and strength and try to balance an egg on the head of a nail.
After the 3-hour tour, we’ll drive about 30 minutes to an exquisite restaurant overlooking Quito called Rumi Loma, where we’ll enjoy an incredible dinner with beautiful views before returning to the hotel.
Day 5 – Wednesday (March 13)
Pickleball Plus Wine & Chocolate Tasting (B, L, D)
We’ll start with another instructional clinic and Open Play with lunch onsite at the hotel.
This afternoon, sign up for individual or small group sessions to work on a specific technique or aspect of the game. These sessions will be recorded for guests to have access to.
We’ll offer a fun afternoon social of Chocolate & Wine/Liquor Tasting. Savor award winning chocolate paired with some of South America’s finest wines and even whiskey or tequila pairings. A representative will be onsite to talk about the history of chocolate in its true home of Ecuador and the secrets to amazing South American wines.
For dinner this evening, we’d love to treat everyone to a Sushi Bar that amazes us every time. Every dish is a work of art! The menu is expansive with dishes to delight everyone from vegans to carnivores. Afterward we’ll take some time to stroll through the beautiful plaza of Cumbaya.
Day 6 – Thursday (March 14)
Pickleball Plus Old Town Quito (B, L, D)
After the morning’s pickleball time, we’ll take off to stroll the cobblestone streets of Old Town Quito. A 50-minute drive takes us to the city center where we’ll see the beautiful colonial architecture, take in some historical sites like the Presidential Palace and La Compañía church.
After walking the town, we’ll be ready for a phenomenal Ecuadorian dinner at our favorite 5-Star Restaurant, La Vida Restaurante Quito!
Day 7 – Friday (March 15)
Pickleball Plus Papallacta – Hot Thermal Springs (B, L, D)
During the players typical morning of training, it would be an awesome opportunity to review goals set from the first day of training and record how far all have progressed as a group.
In the afternoon, everyone will get the opportunity to soak up the rewards of a hard week of work at the Papallacta Thermal Spring Pools. These thermal springs are amazing – they are naturally heated by the volcanic terrane and sulfur-free. There are a variety of different pools and the perfect way to soothe body and mind in our natural surroundings.
After a thoroughly rejuvenating afternoon, we’ll all head back to the hotel for a special departure banquet at the hotel with some unique surprises awaiting Singles Travel International members!
Day 8 – Saturday (March 16)
Departure (B)
Unfortunately, our fun-filled trip comes to an end but leaving us with new friends, memories and an improved game! Enjoy the hotel amenities until 12:00 PM or make arrangements at the hotel for a late check-out for a small charge. Each member will be taken to the airport 3 hours before the scheduled departure. We look forward to having you, your family and your friends return.
Itinerary Changes: Itinerary details are established in advance and subject to change according to unforeseen factors and local conditions such as weather, traffic, construction, or other unforeseen factors. Our itinerary is established in advance by our local operators and may vary due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event that conditions prevent an excursion, the staff will accommodate to the best of their ability and per group consensus. Singles Travel International is not liable for itinerary changes.
Personal Itinerary Requests: We understand that personal needs or preferences might not align with a certain day or portion of the trip, and the staff will do everything possible to accommodate all member’s needs. If possible, please notify Sarah in advance regarding any concerns or requests. If you are not able or choose not to join the group on an excursion you may enjoy a day of rest and relaxation at the resort with all on-site accommodation at no charge. If you opt for a personal change outside of the day’s schedule there will be additional charges for personal transport, lunch and fees, payable to Sarah onsite. Additionally, if you arrive early or stay late, you may inquire about additional tours or excursions.
Meals: Get ready to experience the best of South American cuisine. Our local Concierge Sarah loves sharing her favorite Ecuadorian treats with you. Breakfast will be served daily onsite at our resort. Lunch and Dinner locations vary based on the day’s excursions.
FAQs
Congratulations on making a reservation with Singles Travel International for your next vacation!
WHAT NEXT?
Complete your profile and post a message on the chat to say hello to your fellow travelers.
REVIEW the important information on the FAQ tab for this trip and visit our Help Center. We strongly encourage all our members to check the latest travel recommendations by the US State Department, CDC and air carriers to review the latest information for travel risks in order to make an informed decision about their travel safety.
SOCIALIZE Say hello to your fellow travelers on the chat and join our Free community for Singles 50+ and meet singles your age all year round. Join Free Today!
DON’T MISS OUT
Get the best deals on optional “Add-ons”. Review the Trip Options and make all reservations so you don’t miss out on any limited or time-sensitive offers.
PASSPORT MANDATORY
A passport is required for US citizens and be sure to confirm that your passport is current and will be valid at least six months after your return date. If you do not have one or need a new one, contact the State Department Passport Office in your area immediately or visit their website.
Non US Citizens are responsible for verifying their own required documentation for this tour.
FLIGHT & PASSPORT INFO
Two months prior to your vacation, you’ll receive a Get Ready email with a link to a Fit & Willing to Travel Vacation Form. The form will ask for all your pertinent information such as passport info as well as flight info. Note: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return.
INSURANCE
Medical insurance is mandatory for all tourists visiting Ecuador. All tourists and travelers entering Ecuador will be required to submit a certificate, invoice or proof of international travel insurance, whether public or private, valid for the duration of their stay in Ecuador. In addition to direct access immediately upon completing your purchase, you will receive a quote from Travel Guard regarding travel insurance after reserving your vacation.
When selecting a travel insurance policy, we recommend that you are covered for a minimum of $50,000 of medical expenses and $100,000 of emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage. We also strongly recommend that the policy cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
If you have any questions, Travel Guard professional, expert agents are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us, if you have not received your quote within 3 days, or CLICK HERE to go directly to Travel Guard and request a policy quote. It only takes a few minutes.
NEED MORE HELP?
Questions and comments after you have reserved your vacation are addressed promptly when you send a message to us at service@singlestravelintl.com.
The tour begins in Quito on March 9, 2024, and ends the March 16, 2024. Therefore the tour is 7 nights/8 days.
A deposit is due at time of reservation and final payment is due on December 6, 2023.
If you make a reservation after December 6, 2023, full payment will be automatically charged at time of reservation and penalties will apply.
Changing lives through traveling the world together is our “why” and we want to make it possible for every member to achieve their personal vacation dream goals. Sometimes, it takes extra care and attention to helping you make it a reality. Below are payment options to accommodate every need.
Final Payment Options
Credit Card
We’ve made paying your balance online as easy as 1-2-3! You’ll be able to see your balance directly within your Singles Travel International profile. Under the shopping cart icon, choose “Reservations and Payments” from the drop down to view your dashboard. To see how to use this NEW reservation and payment feature, watch this quick VIDEO. You may also call us at 877-765-6874 ext. 4 and provide us with your preferred payment information.
Check
Contact our team at service@singlestravelintl.com and request the Pay-By-Check discount. Your final payment balance will be recalculated deducting the Pay-By-Check discount. Then be sure to mail your check with the revised balance total to our office so that it arrives by December 6, 2023 in order to secure your reservation and price. Late payments will not be accepted.
Mail checks payable to:
Singles Travel International
7491 N Federal Highway
Suite C5328
Boca Raton, FL 33487
IMPORTANT: If you pay online using your credit card on the Reservations & Payments dashboard, be aware that the discounted rate is no longer valid and that the higher price applies. We will contact you to collect the non-discounted price balance due.
Zelle®
Contact our team at service@singlestravelintl.com and request the Zelle® discount. Your final payment balance will be recalculated deducting the Zelle® discount. Then be sure to send your payment with the revised balance total to EZPay@singlestravelintl.com so that it arrives by December 6, 2023 in order to secure your reservation and price. Late payments will not be accepted. Should you pay via credit card, the discounted rate is no longer valid, and members will be charged the original non-discounted price.
Make sure that you are using the correct EZPay@singlestravelintl.com email address for Singles Travel International (listed as Tammy Weiler) because once you press “Send”, the payment cannot be canceled. Singles Travel International is not responsible for payments sent to the incorrect Zelle® account.
Customized Payment Plan
Find your dream trip and “Pay Over Time” to make your vacation goal a reality. Contact our Accounting Team at 877-765-6874 ext 4 to set up a customized payment plan designed to meet your individual needs.
Yes. All cancellations must be made in writing to Singles Travel International at service@singlestravelintl.com and are subject to per-person penalties as follows:
After deposit and at any time of cancellation, refunds may be requested – less a minimum charge of $250 – in addition to other penalties listed below.
* After December 6, 2023 – any cancellations or “no-shows” – 100% penalty.
Air packages and air tickets are subject to cancellation policies imposed by the airlines.
Cancellations made prior to December 6, 2023 (final payment date) may request a Future Trip Credit, and the $250 minimum cancellation fee will be waived. The Future Trip Credit may be used toward any future Singles Travel International vacation within 1 year of cancellation, for travel at any time. No refunds will be given on any unused portions of the trip.
Our package includes airport transportation and a guide will meet you at the Quito Airport (UIO). After exiting customs, you’ll find your guide holding a sign with your name and the Singles Travel International logo. Your guide will take you to the hotel, approximately 15 minutes away, where you will meet your fellow travelers.
As members arrive through Day 1, feel free to explore the grounds and enjoy the onsite amenities. Everyone who arrives at the hotel by 7:00pm will meet at the restaurant for a special welcome dinner. Meet your Singles Travel Concierge Sarah and fellow travelers while enjoying a fantastic traditional Ecuadorian dinner.
All meet-up details will be provided in your Final Vacation Details & Meetup Information document posted to our FAQ tab, 21 days prior to departure.
Singles Travel International is a vacation event company that plans singles events and markets our events at our expense to create a “singles only” experience. We do not allow guests to join the group unless the reservation has been made by Singles Travel International. Our policy is firm for tours and cruises, as well as pre and post trip hotel stays. Members and friends that “show up” will not be allowed to participate without paying an equivalent fee to the rest of the group that made the reservation with Singles Travel International. Your credit card on file will automatically be charged.
Of course! Additional nights in Quito may also be purchased for before or after the tour. Add the options to your retreat at time of checkout for best rates and availability.
To accommodate singles from all over the world, our tours and cruises are priced as land/cruise only. Therefore, international airfare into Quito (UIO) is additional. Singles Travel International is a licensed ticketing agency and oftentimes has low negotiated fares. Contact a reservation specialist for help purchasing your airfare.
March 9, 2024: Schedule your flights into Quito (UIO) to arrive by 5 PM in order to enjoy the welcome dinner at 7 PM.
March 16, 2024: Schedule your flight to depart Quito (UIO) anytime. If your flight departs late night, you may purchase a “Day Room” to enjoy the resort amenities and have access to a shower to make it more comfortable to get ready before your flight.
Add options at the same time that you checkout for the retreat or come back and add them later after you reserve your flights.
Your Airport transfer in Quito on the main tour arrival day (March 9, 2024) and on departure day (March 16, 2024) are complimentary for Singles Travel International members.
Please be sure to complete your Fit & Willing form by the required deadlines in order to qualify for the complimentary transfer. Reminders will be send starting 90 days prior to departure.
The tour does not include round-trip airfare or travel insurance. Book airfare as soon as possible for the greatest savings. As of August 2018, in order to enter Ecuador, all tourists will be required to show proof of travel insurance.
Our package does not include gratuities to our Singles Travel International Concierge ($15 per day for excellent service) or local guides ($2-10 for excellence on special excursions).
You are responsible for alcoholic beverages, personal purchases such as souvenirs and snacks, incidentals such as massages, laundry and meals outside of the established itinerary.
The itinerary is established in advance and may vary due to unforeseen circumstances. However, if you opt to do something that is different than or in addition to what is planned for the group, you are at your own expense.
The currency used in Ecuador is the US dollar.
Many locations do not accept major credit cards and ATM machines availability may be limited. We recommend you bring US dollars in small denominations, $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills that are not too old, worn or ripped for personal purchases, souvenirs, incidentals and tipping.
Ecuador requires a valid passport from all people entering the country and proof of return tickets to the traveler’s home country or another country after Ecuador. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your departure from Ecuador. We recommend keeping your passport safely at the resort, and carry a copy with you at all times while in Ecuador. No Visas are required for entry by US citizens at the publication of this program.
Starting August 6, 2018, Medical insurance is mandatory. All tourists and travelers entering Ecuador will be required to submit a certificate, invoice or proof of international travel insurance, whether public or private, valid for the duration of their stay in Ecuador.
Travel Insurance is available through Travel Guard and in addition to direct access immediately upon completing your purchase, you will receive a quote from Travel Guard regarding travel insurance after reserving your vacation. If you have any questions, Travel Guard professional, expert agents are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us, if you have not received your quote within 3 days.
Our affordable Premium Memberships allows solo travelers the ability to have Your Own Space™️️ for a lot less so that you never have to share. Review the special Premium Member rates on the Book Now page. You may join at the same time that you purchase your vacation or click here to learn more and purchase your membership.
Roommate matches are available by request if you already have a traveling companion. Contact us at 877-SOLO-TRIP to speak with one our teammates to make your reservation.
The lodging for our retreat is the luxurious La Palma Polo Hotel, located 20 minutes from the airport in Puembo, a green and peaceful neighborhood of Quito, Ecuador’s capital. La Palma Polo Hotel has reinvented and innovated spaces that honor its climate and green scenery.
Singles Travel International is taking over all 16 finely decorated luxury suites equipped with a kitchenette, private terrace, living room and spacious bathroom. All rooms have incredible views that overlook the polo fields and lakes, in order to make our stay an unforgettable experience and a restful night of sleep.
We’ll enjoy unlimited pickleball play as well as access to the Spa, Equestrian Club, Tennis, Bikes, Kayaks and More!
An onsite, gourmet restaurant offers us a variety of fresh, farm-to-table cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Of course not. This is an all singles vacation. In addition, you will be pleased to find out that nearly 90% of our guests on every trip sign up and have never met anyone before joining the group. In 30 years, we have perfected the singles vacation experience. It is paramount that our guests meet each other right away and have opportunities to mingle every day.
From the moment you join our tour , our Concierge Team is waiting to meet you. Our first day begins with an orientation and the camaraderie builds as we go along. The nature of the trip is trying something new, challenging yourself and motivating those around you. The bonds that develop on our adventure tours are by far the strongest and longest lasting.
Be sure and take advantage of our community features including the viewing of profiles of those already signed up to go. Send messages and meet your fellow travelers even before you take off!
Our Singles Spa & Pickle Ball Retreat in Ecuador is perfectly suited to physically active members in the 45-75 age range, who are fit and practice a regular routine of exercise, especially pickleball. We generally have a ratio of 60/40, women to men. As a travel club, matchmaking is not our focus. Ages listed on our page are not restricted. They are simply used as a guideline. We offer an opportunity for single travelers to see the world in the company of other singles and do not guarantee the ages or ratios.
Weather in Puembo is similar year-round, with warm sunny days giving way to cool nights. Our resort enjoys perfect weather with 60’s in the early morning and nighttime, but reaches temperatures of 75-80 during the daytime, all year round.
Our excursions will take the group on sunny canyon walks, into the misty cloud rain forest, and to a windy 14,000 ft. Rain is a possibility throughout the week, varies year to year and can make cool evenings feel chillier. Due to the high altitude, the sun on clear days can feel more intense. So be prepared to experience a range of temperatures and climates with comfortable layered clothing.
Currently, most airlines will allow you to check two bags, weighing 50 pounds each, for a fee. In addition you may carry-on one bag plus a personal item such as a purse or briefcase. Please check with your air carrier for up-to-the minute regulations and fees for checked baggage.
Get ready for a packed adventure itinerary combined with Pickleball play! Bring your favorite gear for the courts, then comfortable, casual clothes are recommended for touring throughout the trip. No need to pack separate, dressy clothes for dinner in the evenings.
Ecuador is at a higher altitude than most travelers’ home city. Be prepared for cool evenings and a much hotter sun. Not only are we higher, we are traveling near the Equator, making sunburn possible even if you rarely get burned. Rain is always possible, and mixed with high altitude can make you feel very chilled.
Prepare for temperatures between 55-88 F. Bring along spring/summer clothing with lots of layers. Lightweight long sleeves and long pants are most flexible for a variety of temperatures and provide protection from the sun. Bring a warm sweatshirt, fleece or jacket for chilly evenings. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must. You will also need a swimsuit for rafting at the hot springs. Water shoes are recommended for rafting as flip-flops or sandals can be lost to the river.
**Packing Tips:** Take only what you need; don’t over pack. Save room for souvenirs and purchases. Pack flat and full to avoid wrinkling. Bring wardrobe basics; mix and match around one or two colors. Don’t pack anything valuable, fragile or perishable. Label your luggage with an outside tag, and place an identification card inside each suitcase.
**Essential Items: We highly recommend that you bring the following items.**
– Pickleball Raquet
– Court Gear & Shoes for Play
– A good, comfortable pair of broken-in hiking shoes for easy to medium terrain
– A pair of shoes for restaurants (loafers, sandals, etc.)
– Water shoes for Thermal Springs of Papallacta
– Eyeglass/Sunglass cord for protection when rafting
– Clothing for walking/light hiking, lightweight long sleeves and long pants are the most flexible for a variety of temperatures and provides protection from the sun
– Bathing Suit
– Lightweight raingear, poncho
– Sunglasses, sun block (30 or higher for face), sun hat, baseball cap or visor
– Toiletries: all your daily essentials
– Personal washcloth, make-up remover towlettes
– Prescription medications: sufficient supply for the entire trip plus legible written prescription in case of loss. Keep medications in their original, labeled container. Always pack your medications in your carry-on bag!
– Eyeglasses, contacts, contact lens solution. You may want to bring along a written prescription for your eye-wear in case of loss.
– Over the counter medications: cold remedy, aspirin/pain reliever, antacid/stomach upset remedy, Band-Aids, anti-bacterial medication, Dramamine (if prone to motion sickness), neosporin, anti-itch cream.
– Mosquito repellant
– Photography Equipment: Water Protection, extra memory cards and batteries recommended
– Ziplock baggies to carry wet clothing
– Binoculars
– Old clothing to donate to local churches & schools
Ecuador’s food and water systems are well developed, but safety is recommended to ensure you have no problems during your trip. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Bring a reusable water bottle which can be filled at the filtered water stations in the hotel.
Your tour includes a full meal package with carefully planned meals and restaurants. The water and ice provided with your meals can be well trusted. If you choose to eat at restaurants outside the group itinerary, it is recommended to take care or avoid street vendors and small restaurants. Raw fruits and vegetables must be cleaned properly to ensure they are sterilized and not contaminated with untreated water.
110 Volts, 60 cycles which is the same as the US.
Ecuador does not practice daylight savings time in comparison with the US. Quito is at UTC -5:00. During our tour, Ecuador will be in EST.
Although no inoculations are required, pre-departure health checkups are essential for any major Latin American trip so do check in with your doctor for vaccinations in plenty of time before journeying, we recommend at least 3-4 weeks. Today immunizations against smallpox and Cholera are not necessary or recognized even by the World Health Organization.
The major vaccinations recommended for Latin America travel to combat diseases are as follows: Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria, Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Infectious Hepatitis, & Rabies in the jungle areas or other epidemics that may have recently sprung up such as Meningitis.
Two excellent websites outlining the major precautions are CDC and WHO, which are the official sites for the centers of disease control prevention and the World health organization respectively.
**Take Precautions:** Never eat from street vendor stalls due to contamination of the handlers or street pollution from passing vehicles or drink the local water unless you have purification tablets, preferably iodine based.
Use bottled water when possible as the iodine taste can be overpowering. Also, always wash and clean fruits thoroughly before eating as well as washing and drying your hands on clean hand towels or paper tissues. Brush teeth with bottled water and avoid eating uncooked foods unless you are familiar with the source.
Our hotel is located in a beautiful valley outside Quito, at a height of about 7,000 feet. The excursions on this tour will be at varying altitudes from 6,000 feet to nearly 14,000 feet. Altitude sickness is rare and very few guests have had problems due to the altitude. Sickness is usually avoided by acclimatizing during the first 1-2 days of the trip, not ascending over 9,000 feet in a single day, drinking lots of fluids and avoiding cigarettes and alcoholic beverages until adjusted to the change. Please note that if you have a history of altitude sickness, diabetes, hypertension, or any medical problems that affect breathing, you should check with your doctor before traveling to Quito.
It is very important to dress in layers including warm jackets and sweaters to adjust for temperature changes throughout the day.
With the high altitude, you will be at higher risk for sunburn. Always use a high S.P.F. sun block, minimum 15 for body and 30-50 for face and shoulders. Sun block should be used daily and reapplied as needed. Light weight long sleeves and pants, hats and visors are also recommended.
Your “Final Vacation Details & Meetup Information” including transportation and how to meet up with the group will be available on the YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS button on the left navigation bar on the trip site, 21 days prior to trip start date.
Questions and comments after you have reserved your vacation are addressed promptly when you send a message to us at service@singlestravelintl.com.
Our office is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. In an emergency after hours, please contact Tammy Weiler at 815-715-6998.
All countries you will visit have laws against the purchase and export of certain items, including antiquities, national cultural property and certain animal products, especially endangered species (ivory, rhino horn, tortoise shell, coral, feathers, etc.). Additionally, the United States has laws prohibiting the import of certain items, which include many of the same things. You face having your purchase confiscated and/or heavy fines for exporting or importing prohibited items.
On return to the U.S., your baggage is subject to search by U.S. Customs. Currently, you are permitted to bring back $800 of goods duty free. Persons aged 21 or over may also bring in one liter of liquor and one carton of cigarettes. If you plan to purchase a lot of souvenirs or expensive items, it is important to retain all purchase receipts. However, please note that U.S. Customs may not accept a receipt as true cost if it seems unusually low for the estimated value of the item. You may access the regulations and restrictions governing US Customs on their official website, click here to learn more.
Chat
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Who's Going?
Meet Your STI Concierge
Rob
Hi, I'm Rob. After over a decade of teaching as an Elite Tennis Pro, I have caught the Pickleball bug and created the first professional pickleball courts in my family’s home of Ecuador. The only thing I love more than getting on the court is sharing the delights of this beautiful country, as I have done with Singles Travel International for years. As your host on and off the courts, I promise to have you learning, laughing and loving every minute of this incredible luxury experience.

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