Backpacking in Ecuador looks set for a boost with the discovery of the spa town of Banos.
The potential appeal for those on
gap year travel or
student travel is such that one New Zealand
backpacking couple have decided to up sticks and open their own eco-friendly
hostel.
But while Rebecca and Doug Greenshields are aware it will be a challenge, but were seduced by the fantastic landscape, climate and "really cruisy" lifestyle.
Mrs Greenshields told the Manawatu Standard: "Ecuador is a naturally beautiful and abundant country, like New Zealand, but isn't being treated so.
"We'd like to educate locals in sustainable living (we still have a lot to learn ourselves as well) and plan on doing this by example."
Ecuador is a somewhat untapped ecotourism resource, boasting a climate of warm days and cool nights that make it perfect for growing plants and vegetables.
Banos has its own geothermal spring that the couple hope to make the site of their new
hostel.
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