Portoviejo, Ecuador
Museums
If you're in Portoviejo, Ecuador and interested in visiting museums, a great option is the Museum of Manta, which is located about 40 kilometers away from Portoviejo. It showcases exhibits on the pre-Columbian cultures of the region, including the Manteno culture, as well as contemporary art and crafts. Other nearby museums include the Museo del Centro Cultural in Manta and the Museo de Artesanias de Montecristi in Montecristi, both of which are also within driving distance of Portoviejo and have exhibits on local culture and history.
Food
Portoviejo, being a coastal city in Ecuador, has a rich culinary tradition that features seafood as a prominent ingredient. Some of the most recommended and popular dishes according to local people include:
1. Encebollado – a hearty soup made with tuna, cassava, onions, cilantro, and spices.
2. Ceviche – a dish of raw fish marinated in lime juice and garnished with onion, tomato, and cilantro.
3. Arroz con menestra y carne asada – rice served with lentil sauce and grilled beef.
4. Churrasco – a grilled steak typically served with rice, beans, avocado, and patacones (fried plantains).
5. Corviches – fried balls of mashed green bananas filled with fish or seafood.
6. Viche de pescado – a soup made with fish, tomatoes, and spices.
7. Salprieta – a spicy mixture of toasted corn, peanuts, chili peppers, and other seasonings.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can try while in Portoviejo, and there are plenty of local restaurants and street food vendors where you can sample them.
Activities
Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Portoviejo, Ecuador:
1. Visit Parque Eloy Alfaro: This is a popular park in the city where you can go for a walk, have a picnic, or just relax on a bench and people-watch.
2. Explore the historic center: The historic center of Portoviejo has many colonial-era buildings, including the Cathedral of San Andrés and the Municipal Palace. You can take a walking tour to learn more about the history of the city.
3. Attend a soccer game: Soccer is very popular in Ecuador, and Portoviejo has its own team, Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Portoviejo. Attending a game can be a fun and exciting way to experience local culture.
4. Shop at the market: The Mercado Central de Portoviejo is a bustling marketplace where you can buy fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods. It's a great place to get a taste of daily life in Portoviejo.
5. Try local cuisine: Ecuadorian food is delicious and unique, so be sure to try some of the local dishes while you're in Portoviejo. Some popular options include ceviche (a seafood dish), encebollado (a soup made with fish and onions), and churrasco (grilled beef).
