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Transportation
Ecuador Dos and Don'ts
Do carry your passport with you when traveling between provinces in Ecuador. By law, visitors are required always to have their passports in their possession, but this is less likely to be an issue if you're not traveling long distances (do carry a photocopy of the passport at all times, as well as a copy of the page with your customs entry stamp/printout).
Don't point at people with your finger. Use your chin or your entire hand.
Do say "buen provecho" (enjoy your meal) to companions before a meal and to fellow diners when leaving a restaurant. Also say "con permiso" to get past someone.
Don't be surprised to see a lot of uniformed people toting machine guns. They might be soldiers, police or security guards at banks and money-exchange houses.
Do ask for permission first before photographing Amerindians.
Do shake everyone's hand and peck everyone's cheek upon being introduced.
Do remember to take photos of your family and/or hometown. Ecuadorians are very family-oriented, and a chat about your relatives will always get the conversation going.
Do take lots of small-denomination bills with you (US$20 maximum). Changing a US$50 or higher is nearly impossible.
