Quito:A maze of colonial streets, wrapped in modern city and surrounded by mountains.

Spread across a spectacular Andean valley, Quito looms 2850m (9350ft) above sea level and is flanked by snowcapped volcanic peaks. While the old town sparkles with indigenous character and recently restored colonial splendor, the 'new town' screams hotels, high-rises and too-trendy cafes.
As a Unesco World Heritage Site, building in the old town has been strictly controlled since 1978. The city is aflush with pride - 2006 marked the final instalment of its huge restoration project. Buildings have been spruced up, historic theaters have been revived and the once-sketchy streets are now safe.

Ecuador may be tiny, but it sure packs a spectacular punch.

The smallest country in the rugged Andean highlands, Ecuador has an array of vibrant indigenous cultures, well-preserved colonial architecture, otherworldly volcanic landscapes, dense rainforest and sublime islands - all in a nation no bigger than the US state of Nevada.
Once a banana republic, Ecuador's politicians still pocket the wealth accumulated from its treasures: a picture-perfect capital, the all-consuming Amazonian jungle, breathtaking wildlife reserves, ancient sites, remote indigenous villages, and, of course, world-famous tropical beaches.
Travel Warning: Floods - Lively Volcano - Dangerous Areas
Heavy rains and floods across Ecuador prompted the national government to declare a state of emergency in February, and the inclement weather continues. Travel to Quito was badly affected by a landslide on 31 March, and floods around the city of Loja have caused serious damage. Travellers should expect delays to transport services, and very poor road conditions.
Tungurahua volcano, south of Quito, is currently more active than usual, prompting authorities to declare a red alert and evacuate nearby residents. Visitors are prohibited from going near the volcano, and entry into the city of Baños is limited. Travelers should heed local advice and be aware that an eruption could occur at any time.
There have been several reports of robberies and rape on Volcán Pichincha, near Quito. Armed with machetes and guns, the robbers have attacked groups of hikers on the main trail up Rucu Pichincha from the telefériQo. We're hoping these attacks will cease with a planned increase in security, but it's best to check with your embassy or with South American Explorers for an update on the situation before considering a hike here.
There is a high risk to the security of those traveling in the northern areas of Ecuador that border with Colombia because of kidnappings, military and guerrilla activity and increased crime. Landmines are also present in the Cordillera del Cóndor region, bordering Peru. These areas should be avoided.

Top Places to Visit in 2008

Beijing: The city that is hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics has been recently abuzz with construction, including the "Bird's Nest" stadium seen here. Beijing is putting on its best face for the event, which will see all of China on the world stage.

Quebec City: This Canadian city, celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2008, is one of the world’s most enchanting destinations. Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City on the St. Lawrence River in 1608, establishing the first permanent French settlement in North America.

Liverpool: The European Capital of Culture for 2008 is hosting a variety of arts-related events, including a comprehensive exhibit of Gustav Klimt's work, Theatre in the Park, the start of the Tall Ships Race 2008, and a once-in-a-lifetime concert featuring one of the “lads of Liverpool,” Sir Paul McCartney.

Bhutan: If the lush valleys and snowcapped mountains, ancient temples and monasteries, and expansive markets full of cheerful locals haven’t lured you yet, reconsider: In 2008, the 101st anniversary of the country’s monarchy will be commemorated by a yearlong celebration.

Greenland: The midnight sun practically guarantees encounters with reindeer, seals, and narwhals, but it's the Arctic island's Ilulissat ice fjord, which has retreated six miles in just a few years, and Warming Island, which was thought to have been part of mainland Greenland until the connecting ice thawed, that tend to leave visitors dumbstruck.

Lisbon: The cheapest capital in Western Europe is worth a visit not only for its affordability but for its dramatic hillside villages, fashionable cobblestone enclaves and innovative cuisine.

Mozambique: This country is poised to become Africa’s next big tourist destination. Its recent economic success allows its natural assets—including 1,500 miles of unspoiled tropical shoreline and pristine reef-fringed archipelagos—to shine, and the government is restoring the million-acre Gorongosa National Park.

New Orleans: Combine a rebuilding boom with powerhouse couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie moving to the French Quarter, and a revitalized Canal Street beckoning musicians and ramblers back to its pretty riverside promenade, and you've got the makings of a fully revitalized city.

Okanagan Valley: Its landscapes are dotted with verdant fields, cascading hillsides and ample lakes, leaving no question the area makes for a great wine-country getaway. This area boasts the climate for traditional grape harvesting and the production of Canada's famous ice wine.

Quito: The capital of Ecuador is coming into its own, thanks to a burgeoning culinary and nightlife scene, new attractions ranging from botanical gardens to cultural heritage museums and the opening of several luxury hotels.

Slovenia: Though Slovenia was one of the first Eastern European countries to adopt the euro, the country’s hesitance to adapt to modern times has made its Venetian-era squares and tiny Alpine cities a fantastic bargain for the buck.

Tobago: New flights allow visitors to bypass Trinidad and reach Tobago's secluded and romantic shores, where an unpretentious, slow-paced and eco-friendly atmosphere prevails, relatively free of tourists and overdevelopment.

Tunisia: Visitors can see the ruins of the ancient Phoenician city of Carthage and historic sites like the coliseum at El Jem; relax and rejuvenate at one of several beach resorts; venture through the Sahara on camelback or 4x4; or camp out in the desert in luxurious linen tents.