​QUITO

Hello, ​Quito.

At an elevation of 9,350 feet (2,800 meters above sea level) and surrounded by huge peaks, Quito is the highest official capital city in the world.

The city's Old Town is a must-see, a Unesco World Heritage site packed with colonial monuments and architectural treasures. Wandering about the cobblestone plazas and passing churches and cathedrals that date back to the early 16th century makes you feel like you are back in time.

Women digital nomads should keep their wits about when traveling around in Quito. ​There has been an increase in robberies and petty crimes (as of 2019), and many of the city's streets can feel dodgy after dark and on Sundays.

When choosing a place to live, avoid the historical area if you like to go out at night. ​Most locals in this area won't leave their houses once it's dark due to crime. During the day, it is relatively safer to walk around, although working out of a coffee shop with your laptop might attract unwanted attention.

The area with the most guesthouses, restaurants and nightlife, the Mariscal Sucre, remains a target for muggers and pickpockets. You would also want to be careful of fake taxis that resemble the official taxis.

Neighborhoods that are safer and have more modern apartments available on AirBnb are Iñaquito and La Carolina.

Cost of living in Quito is one of the lowest for a capital city in South America. "New towns" like El Marsical or Gringo Town has many eating and drinking establishments with strong wifi connections.

June to September has the best weather due to less rain and warmer, clearer days. October to May is slightly cooler but rainier, and the tourists have left the city.