How to communicate in Ecuador
If you go to Quito, the capital of country, during your holiday in Ecuador, you might be lucky enough to meet someone who speaks English. Don't delude yourself though, it isn't very common so don't count on it. Just sometimes you might meet an Ecudorian who has studied in the UK or in an English-speaking school. However, even if you speak only a little Spanish, or you speak it poorly, try to avoid using English. Ecuador happily adopted the dollar as its official currency but nevertheless it's seen as bad form to use the English language. First of all, it's considered too "gringo" and it's also highly likely that you won't be understood. Other than those involved in tourism, very few Ecuadorians speak English. Don't try to haggle in English either. It complicates matters and you'll immediately pay more than you intended. Another unlikely possibility is that you learned Quechua as a second language. However, to be more precise, it's Kishwa that you would need to know, because that's the first language of the Amazon Indians.
Resorting to Spanish
Since English is seen as bad form and it's hardly likely you'll find anyone who speaks French, Spanish is the only solution. Before you leave, learn some Spanish or do some revision, read back over your old lessons and learn a few basic expressions. Often it's enough if you are able to say "Hello" "thank you" "Goodbye" and know how to count in order to get by. All the same, it's better if you can speak enough Spanish to hold a conversation. Without doubt the Ecuadorians are the most outgoing, warm and welcoming people in all of South America. It would be a shame to miss out on these wonderful encounters. Remember to bring a Spanish phrase book with you and revise some basic expressions regularly before you arrive.
