Manta: 19 Mar 2009 to 21 Mar 2009

Colourful fishing villages, miles of unspoiled beaches and unusual tropical dry forests are each part of Manta’s appeal. Once a trading post for the Manta and Inca people, Manta has grown to become Ecuador’s second-largest port and one of its major cities.

Use Manta as a gateway to the capital city of Quito or perhaps the Galápagos. Or visit nearby Montecristi, famed for its colonial architecture and for being the birthplace of the Panama hat. A rapidly dwindling number of artisans make these broad-brimmed, hand-woven head coverings, much prized by those in the know.