GAIAS Pre-departure Information1

GALAPAGOS ACADEMIC INSTITUTE FOR THE ARTS & SCIENCES (GAIAS)

PLANNING YOUR TRIP ABROAD

INTRODUCTION TO ECUADOR

With its relatively small territory (256.370 sq. km/ 98.985 sq. miles), Ecuador has the biggest biodiversity per area in the world. In a study of Conservation International, Ecuador is among the 17 “mega diverse” countries, such as the United States, China, Australia, Brazil and Mexico. With 9.2 species per km2, it occupies the first place in the world in regards to species per area.

The richness of this country lies in its diversity, both natural and cultural. Ecuador has four diverse and rich regions. They are the Amazon rainforest, the coast, the Andean highlands and the Galapagos archipelago. These four regions are subdivided into twenty- two provinces. Besides its exuberant biodiversity, Ecuador embraces an impressive variety of ethnic groups, including some untouched communities, which still preserve traditional values and cultural manifestations from ancient times.

ACCOMMODATION

Quito

While in Quito, everyone will stay in Hotel Walther where all rooms are suite style with a kitchen and living room space. Students will be placed in triples and quadruples.

Hotel Walther

Address: Apallana 300 & Almagro

Quito, Ecuador

Phone: (593 2) 2228552 (To call from the US, please first dial 011 and then the number listed

here)

Fax: (593 2) 2225586

Email:

Galapagos

In San Cristobal where GAIAS is located, each student will stay with a host family. In Santa Cruz, everyone will stay in a hotel. Santa Cruz hotel to be confirmed.

MEALS

Quito

Breakfast and dinner will be in Hotel Walther and lunches either at the university or on field trips.

Galapagos

In San Cristobal, all students will have breakfast in the homestay, lunch in restaurants and dinner will be alternated between homestays and restaurants.

In Santa Cruz, meals will be in restaurants.

CLIMATE:GALAPAGOS:

The Galapagos Islands are located near the equator, approximately 1000 km (600 miles) off the west coast of Ecuador. The climate of the Galapagos is influenced by a rich system of both cool and warm oceanic currents. The Humboldt current brings cool water to the islands.

The Galapagos year can be divided into two “seasons:” the “hot” or “wet” season which lasts from December to early May with an average temperature of 25 C/ 77 F; while the “cool” or “dry” season from May to December has an average temperature of 18 C/ 64 F. In San Cristobal, where GAIAS is located, the water temperature normally averages 22-23 C (71.6-73.4 F), although it can range from 19-26 C (66.2-78.8 F). Other islands such as Española can have lower water temperatures depending on the time of year. Despite the lower temperatures, it is possible to swim year-round in the Galapagos without a wetsuit.

** Although Quito is relatively warm year-round, evenings get cold. Be sure to pack clothing to keep warm at night (sweaters, light jackets, sweatshirts, etc.)

ELECTRICITY

Ecuador's electrical current is 110 volts 60 cycles (the same as North America) and thus adapters for North American equipment are not needed. However, plug converters may be necessary in older buildings (if you are planning to travel).

INTERNET ACCESS

There is a computer lab at GAIAS offering high-speed internet access at no charge. Students can also use local internet cafes in San Cristobal. Internet access costs an average of $2.50 per hour in town.

If you have a laptop, you may want to consider bringing it to GAIAS. The campus is equipped with wireless internet access.

INTERNATIONAL CALLS TO ECUADOR

To call Quito, Ecuador:

011-593 (country code) + 2(regional code) +7 digit phone number

To call a cell phone in Ecuador:

011-593 (country code) +7 digit phone number

To call San Cristobal, Galapagos:

011-593 (country code) + 5(regional code) +7 digit phone number

CURRENCY

US$ Dollars are used in Ecuador and the Galapagos.

HANDLING YOUR MONEY

It is recommended that you bring US dollars in small denominations (many places often do not have change) and a debit card. Other foreign currencies are difficult to change outside of Quito and other major cities.

Throughout Quito you will find a wide variety of banks, ATMs, casas de cambio (money changing houses), and money transfer facilities that will cover most of your financial needs.

Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm; a few in Quito stay open until 8pm. Likewise, casas de cambio are open Monday through Friday from 9 to 6. A few banks and casas de cambio are also open on Saturday mornings.

Traveler's Checks

Most past students do not recommend bringing too many traveler´s checks as they can often be difficult to change. If you decide to bring some, American Express traveler’s checks are the most widely accepted in Ecuador. It can sometimes be quite difficult to cash traveler’s checks from other companies such as Visa. Not only are American Express checks accepted in more places, but there is an American Express office conveniently located in Quito in case they are lost or stolen.

Cash

Carry mostly small denominations (USD 1, USD 5, and USD 10 bills), and make sure they are in good condition or you might have trouble using them -- damaged, torn, ripped or written on dollar bills may not be accepted by other banks or businesses.

ATM Machines

Debit cards with a CIRRUS or Mastercard symbol work best. Cards with the Visa symbol are not always accepted by the ATM in San Cristobal.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are accepted in Quito.

Mastercard and Visa have only recently been implemented in San Cristobal, Galapagos but in very few places. It is always better to have cash, and students should not rely on being able to use their credit cards. On the island of Santa Cruz, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are usually accepted (but in higher-end places). In general, Mastercard is the most widely accepted card in the Galapagos.

Money Transfers

Most of Ecuador's urban areas have international money transfer offices where you can pick up money sent from abroad. Your credit card company may also be able to make an emergency advance against your account to one of these money transfer offices. If you are going to use a credit card for cash advance

Banking: Galapagos

Banco del Pacifico is the only bank for foreigners in San Cristobal. Traveler’s Checks can be changed by banks in San Cristobal with a fee of $5 for the total transaction. Traveler’s checks from American Express work best.

HEALTH INFORMATION

Immunizations

See your physician at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for immunizations to take effect. The CDC recommends the following vaccines for Ecuador (as appropriate for age):

  • Yellow fever vaccination
  • Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG).
  • Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, stay >6 months in the region, or be exposed through medical treatment.
  • Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or domestic animals through your work or recreation.
  • Typhoid
  • As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria and measles.

Malaria

Malaria is not a problem in Quito or the Galapagos, although it is found in Ecuador at altitudes below 1500 meters. There will be a short trip planned to the Amazon jungle and malaria medication is strongly recommended for this region. Students should discuss the proper malaria medication with their physician and take the necessary precautions.

Heat & Sun Exposure

It usually takes several weeks to adjust to the heat and humidity. (Note: In Quito you will experience dry heat because of the high altitude. For students traveling to the Galapagos and Amazon jungle, you will experience high levels of heat and humidity.) During this time, one should reduce the amount of strenuous exercise performed and gradually build back up to one’s former level of exercise. If possible, try to schedule exercising during cooler parts of the day and drink plenty of water before, during (if possible) and after exercising.

Sun exposure can ultimately result in sun-damaged skin or even skin cancer. Due to the altitude you are at greater risk of sun and ultraviolet exposure. The period of time between 10 AM and 3 PM is when tanning (and skin cancer causing) ultraviolet light is strongest. If you can, cover your skin and wear a hat with a brim. In addition, applying sunscreen with a minimum SPF factor of 15 will provide additional benefit. Sunscreens may need to be used repeatedly if they are removed during swimming or exercising.

Eye Irritation

The dryness combined with altitude sometimes makes contact lenses uncomfortable or difficult to wear in Quito. If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring rewetting drops which can be used to sooth dry/irritated eyes, as well as a back-up pair of eyeglasses just in case you find wearing contacts too uncomfortable.

The intensity of ultra-violet rays on the eyes can also cause discomfort. It is wise to wear quality sunglasses anytime you are in the sunlight for long periods of time.

Adjusting to Altitude

Students will first arrive in Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Quito has an altitude of 2850 m (9350 ft) above sea level, and at this altitude even healthy, athletic individuals may become ill. Once you have adjusted to the altitude, your life will be the same as it was at lower elevations. However, upon arrival, some individuals experience increased rate of breathing, faster and pounding heart rate, headache, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and sleep disorder. These sensations are normal and will disappear as you acclimatize.

When going to high altitudes, you should rest during the first 12-24 hours there in order to adjust to the lowered oxygen content in the air. If you are prone to acute mountain sickness, you may also want to consult your physician about obtaining some acetazolamide (such as Diamox).

Important notes:

  • Dehydration naturally occurs at altitude because the air is thinner and drier. For this reason, the human body loses water in larger amounts. To prevent headaches and lightheadedness, increase your fluid intake by at least two glasses of liquid per day. The liquids can be juices, soft drinks, broth or water. If you’re physically active, it’s recommended that you drink 12-13 cups of fluids per day to compensate!
  • Alcohol and sedatives may have greater effect at high altitudes.
  • The first few days in the altitude you should eat less in order to allow the stomach to adjust to the reduction in oxygen. Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine.
  • Carbohydrates can help to relieve altitude symptoms. Foods high in starch (pastas, potatoes) and non-chocolate candies are good sources of carbohydrates.
  • Exercise and activities should be limited the first week or so in the altitude. When acclimatization has occurred, the individual should begin exercise slowly, not at the same rate as lower elevation.
  • WEAR SUNSCREEN! Because of the altitude you are at greater risk of sun and ultraviolet exposure, which will increase the possibility of sunburn and skin damage. A sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 is recommended.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Leave copies of your important documents, such as your passport, as well as traveler’s check and credit card numbers, with someone who can fax them to you if they are stolen and/or give a copy to a trusted traveling companion. E-mailing numbers to an on-line e-mail account on Hotmail or Yahoo is also a good idea since you can access the Internet from almost anywhere.

Some students also find it helpful to add a parent/guardian to their personal bank account while they are abroad. This helps in case of emergency or if a student needs to manage funds from overseas.

WHAT TO BRING

Recommended Packing List (*items are required)

  • Original passport
  • Photocopies of all documentation/tickets/passport *
  • Health and Travel Insurance policies (health insurance required)*
  • Emergency contact information
  • Money, credit cards (Mastercard is best), Travelers checks (American Express)
  • Day pack
  • Sleeping bag or sheet for camping trip
  • Money belt
  • A full prescription of a doctor prescribed antibiotic or any other medication you are currently taking.
  • Feminine hygiene (tampons are especially difficult to find)
  • Beach towel
  • Bathing suit
  • Specialty toiletry items
  • Spare contact lenses and solution
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunblock or Sunscreen (high factor, waterproof)
  • Light rain jacket or rain poncho
  • Shorts and lightweight slacks
  • Swimsuit(s)
  • Light fleece jacket, sweater or sweatshirt (evenings and camping trip)
  • Warm, comfortable pants and socks (camping)
  • Short- and long-sleeved shirts
  • Hat
  • Sandals
  • Sunglasses (with strap is best)
  • Extra batteries (or rechargeable batteries and a battery charger)
  • Chapstick
  • Camera and film
  • Spanish phrase book / dictionary
  • A personal first aid kit with the following items may be useful: pain reliever/aspirin, cold medicines, diarrhea medicine, laxative, insect protection, sunburn relief, antibacterial cream, prescription medication, Benadryl, Band-Aids, motion sickness medicine, an extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses, moist towelettes, and a sewing kit.
  • Sneakers
  • Flashlight/headlamp and batteries (camping)
  • Disposable underwater camera (make sure the maximum depth is greater than 15 feet)
  • Motion/sea sickness pills (also available at pharmacies in Quito San Cristobal)

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Exit Tax

There is an international exit tax (approximately $45) to leave Ecuador. This must be paid in the airport (in CASH) upon departure from the country. This cost is not included in the program fees.

Baggage Restrictions-Galapagos

The airlines which service San Cristobal have a maximum weight limit of 40 pounds per person (excluding carry-on). Each passenger is allowed two suitcases, with a maximum weight of 20 pounds each. No exceptions apply. There is an excess baggage charge for your luggage of $1 for every 1 kilo (2.2046 pounds) over that limit. You are permitted two carry-ons: 1 bag and 1 personal item (purse, laptop, etc)

Please note: Your luggage and/or carry-on will be subject to inspection by SESA (the Ecuadorian System for Agricultural Sanitation) in an effort to prevent the introduction of foreign plants and animals to the Galapagos Islands. These inspections take place before your flight to the Galapagos and upon your arrival in the Islands.

DETAILED SITE INFORMATION

Galapagos Academic Institute for the Arts & Sciences (GAIAS)

GAIAS is located in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos Archipelago, on the island of San Cristóbal. The island has a population of around 6,000 inhabitants, most of whom make their living principally by artesanal fishing and tourism. In February 2002, the government of Ecuador assigned USFQ a beautiful site of 4.5. hectares (11 acres) overlooking the bay.

GAIAS is the most important educational and research entity of all the islands. Not only does it serve students from the mainland and abroad, but it also functions as a community college and cultural center for residents of the Galapagos.

San Cristobal Island

San Cristóbal, named for the Patron Saint of seafarers, (St. Christopher), is the easternmost island in the Galapagos. It is home to the oldest settlement of the islands, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Alternative name: Chatham

Area: 558 Km2

Maximum Altitude: 730 Mts

Population: 6,000

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the capital of the Galapagos Islands and the oldest settlement of the Archipelago. This small bayside village is home to the Galapagos Academic Institute for the Arts & Sciences (GAIAS), the Galapagos National Park Interpretation Center, a small museum, souvenir shops and local townspeople.

The people of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno make their living principally by artesanal fishing and tourism.

Two important problems of the town include increased migration and efforts to stop it, and conflicts between the fishing and conservation sectors. One key issue is the illegal fishing of sharks, lobsters and sea cucumbers outside of their permitted seasons.

Despite these problems the Galapagos Islands are considered to be a good example of the way in which environmental conflicts can be resolved in a peaceful manner. During the last decade various institutions have been created in order to allow different stakeholders a participatory role in the decision making process.

GAIAS was created as part of an effort to generate sustainable development in the Islands. In order for conservation efforts to be effective, alternatives must be given to the local population which depends so heavily upon fisheries and bureaucratic jobs. The only way for people to look at other alternatives is for them to become involved in sustainable tourism and other non-extractive activities.

GAIAS Mission:

  • Teaching and research at an international level.
  • Promoting sustainable development of the islands by enhancing the educational level of the local population and establishing volunteer services.
  • Supporting and providing sustainable economic alternatives to fishermen and other local stakeholders.
  • Participating in the conservation efforts of the Galapagos.

Useful websites about Ecuador:

(Official website of the Galapagos Conservation Trust, a charity committed to conservation of the Galapagos. You'll find information about the islands, flora and fauna, conservation issues, news and current projects being funded by GCT).

(Human and Cartographic History of the Galapagos Islands)

(Official website of CAPTURGAL, the Galapagos Tourism of Commerce)