We have recently returned from a 10 day trip including 3 days in Quito and 7 days on the Celebrity Xpedition. Prior to our departure, we scoured a multitude of websites looking for information about what to expect. So much of what we read helped us prepare for this exciting venture. I decided that I too wanted to offer some of my experiences in the hope that it would help some future travelers be better prepared for their adventure. I do not intend to review what was done on each excursion as that information is readily available everywhere. My intent is to try to provide some information which will help you decide to take Celebrity or if you have already chosen this cruise, how to prepare for it.

Upon arrival in Quito, we were quickly met by representatives from Celebrity, our luggage was taken from us and we were boarded onto a bus for a brief 15 minute ride to the hotel. Upon entering the lobby of the JW Marriott, we were offered hot towels and fresh local fruit juice while our check in was expedited. We were booked in the PH Suite for the cruise and therefore requested 2 rooms or a suite at the Marriott to accommodate our party. This was confirmed prior to our departure from the US, however upon arrival, Celebrity did not have a record of it. A quick check at the front desk resolved the oversight and we were given a suite as well as a second room. Additionally, about 30 minutes after check in, we received a call from the front desk asking us if we would like to have the room adjoining our suite so that our party of 3 could share the common living area. We graciously accepted and within 5 minutes someone brought us a key to our new room. Within a very short period of time, the bellman delivered our luggage to the appropriate rooms, although we have no idea how since there was no identification on the outside and we never identified our bags at the Quito airport. Just the first bit of magic Celebrity pulled off during our visit.

We enjoyed a quick drink and snack in the bar and turned in for the evening. Read more