Today was another mixture of pageantry and antiquity. Every month a new Battalion comes to the presidential palace to serve as guards. This is quite an event. The old lancers march away from the place, new lancers take their place, bands play and horses carry the cavalry to some mysterious somewhere. The band plays the National Anthem and a lot of John Phillip Sousa. A good time was had by all.
The President and Miss Quito applaud the changing of the Guard.
The band played as the lancers left and new one came on board. Bet you can spot the secret service agent. Marines in full attack gear were at the ready.
The funny thing is that most of these officials were waving, blowing kisses and checking their cell phones.
This market sells everything from coffee and ice cream to beautifully crafted clothing and linens. All at a good price just for you lady.
The Andean pan flute player depended on technology to sell his haunting melodies. One of my favorite moments of the day.
The Arca de Reina that leads to the Ronda the oldest street in the city.
Plaza San Francisco. Part of really antique Quito. The outside does not do justice to the interior of this church.