The low cloud cover impeded...

...our view of Tungurahua volcano. Eruption activity and spewing of gases had increased in Tungurahua, near Baños, the week before we  were supposed to go there. The Canadian embassy had issued an Orange Alert (i.e. don't go there). However, it calmed down again and although we were all looking forward to the light and sound show of an active volcano, we didn't see a thing. We did drive up to a special vantage point in the hope of getting above the clouds, but  no luck.

This road snaked back and forth, with hairpin turns, across
 the mountain side, leading to the top, which should be a good
spot from which to see Tungurahua erupting.

 

When the clouds parted - we could see Baños from this
mountain top.



There were many greenhouses on the mountain side, despite
near 40 degree slope.


 



Baños is known for its melcocha - a cane sugar pull taffy.
It was not as good as the Norwood fair pull taffy, though.



Baños is also known for its thermal pools.
We did not go into these - we were holding
out for the hotsprings at Papallacta.



Torsten says this is a Monkey Puzzle tree
in the  park in the city centre.

 

Run, Kelly, Run! Everywhere you go in Ecuador there are Emergency Evacuation plans posted. However, we have never seen one like this painted right on the street.

Ole and I will return to Baños again when there are no clouds :)
We suspect the views are more spectacular without the clouds.

Almost forgot - the Amelia in Baños shots! She loved when we stopped and she could get out of her car seat!