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.
