Every other Sunday many of the streets in Old Town Quito and Ave de Amazonas, running from the Old Town through Mariscal Sucre (New Town) andout past the Airport some 40k, are closed to cars and open to bicycles, rollerblades, walkers, or any other non motorized means of exercise. Since we joined the Cyclovia in Bogota we figured we should check this one out too. It was to be my birthday event! Unfortunately I had come down with a splitting headache all night, and some stomach thing on top of that so it was a slow morning and we didn’t make it to the ride until 1 p.m. We found some so-called bicycles in the park from a older lady. No info taken, no passport, just bring it back by 6 p.m. It didn't take long to figure out her trusting nature as these were not the type of bikes you would want to have to ride everyday. Mine, notwithstanding the appearance of gears - was essentially fixed. Unfortunately it was set at a very very easy gear. So with a little twist of a knife we adjusted the derailer and put it in the middle ring. Still fixed, but at least I'm not spinning like crazy. We must have missed the crowd as there was little action on the Cyclopaseo. But even still every so often you would run upon a water tent or a mechanic tent which were set up along the way - almost like it was a race or charity event. Again we are wondering how to get this sort of thing started in Los Angeles.
Well my energy was not up to much of a ride and a few hours later we head back to the Hostel. We had moved to the Chicago Hostel upon returning from Otavalo. Its on the border of Old Town facing the Basilica. It has a great roof top area with stunning views and that is where breakfast is served. We were able to score the double supreme room which means cable tv, bath, a small balcony and wifi in the room (sort of) all for only a few dollars more than the normal room. I am thankful as I am still not feeling so good and its nice to just veg-out in front of the black box and relax.
