We came up from Quito (2hr on bus) on the Friday to be there for the market. The animal market is wonderful but start very early so you will probably miss it if you don't stay over.

Hostal Maria has an absolutely perfect location, just around the corner from the square where the artisan market area is.

The rooms were spotless, airy, en-suit (with hot water which isn't always a guarantee in Ecuador) & had a comfy double bed.

I really liked that for safety they had a gate that locked at night. You just pressed a buzzer to be let in & there someone was always at the front desk.

& for $10 for the both of us - what an excellent value for money.

There is no breakfast - I recommend to go to "La Tabasco" in one of the squares. It's one floor up, has a balcony which overlooks the artisan market square & has a stunning view of snow-capped volcano! Actually I recommend it for the view for any meal...
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