Cuenca can be added to the list of cities that surprised me on this trip. It more than surpassed my preconceptions of it being a quiet little colonial town, and made me glad I’d had a few days relaxing with the seniors in Vilcabamba beforehand.

Two big nights on the town were had with some locals I’d made friends with, one night ending with me crawling into bed at 6 in the morning - a rarity for me - usually I'm falling asleep on the dance floor at 2AM.

Aside from the partying, a day was spent in the beautifully peaceful Cajas National Park, where we were treated to some superb scenery, wildlife and a traditional Ecuadorian lunch. Notably delicious was the Canelasco shot and Locro de Papas soup.

Hours were spent at various cafes and restaurants, and it seems like Ecuador is one of few South American countries that has figured out how to do some of my favourite staples properly: coffee and bacon. A benefit of having such a big influence from the United States.

I gingerly strolled around the colonial streets one last time, nursing a slight hangover, and walked up the dizzying stairs of the Cuenca Cathedral to get a decent shot of the city and look back on what was a thoroughly enjoyable 5 days.