Your horse drawn carriage clip clops you through the narrow streets of old Quito, past illuminated colonial facades and through elegant plazas. It is a beautiful warm evening and the whole town seems to be out on the streets, engaged in people-watching and being seen. The restaurants and colourful cafés are overflowing onto the squares. And at the centre of it all is the wonderfully atmospheric Patio Andaluz.

You were right to specify this hotel as part of your tailor-made holiday to Ecuador. It has a timeless elegance borrowed from the surrounding colonial architecture, and a sense of style all its own. Gracious arches and cool inner patios typify its look, whilst quiet, dignified furnishings and superb city views from grand windows add to its appeal.