Taking place from October 8 through 10, 2024, this year’s Expo Flor Ecuador — the meet-up for the producers of the best sustainable flowers, and entrepreneurs who value the outstanding quality and unique beauty of Ecuadorian flowers — promises to be much more than just an ordinary floral fair. This is South America’s most important flower business fair, after all, and it has to live up to its billing; to fulfill all the expectations and meet the high standards in which it is held.
The event which takes place at the Metropolitan Convention Center of Quito, will see more than 110 exhibitors showcase the very best of the flower industry in what promises to be a bigger, brighter, and bolder show than any that has been previously witnessed before. And as you sample the floral delights that the region has to showcase, it would also be prudent to have a feel of Quito as a friendly and lively destination, always ready to offer visitors an unforgettable experience.
A City With a Rich Cultural Heritage
Quito, Ecuador's charming capital, is a vibrant mix of sensations and experiences; right from its ancient history, to its thriving cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. A United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site, this city's colonial heart practically rhythmically pulsates with a mixture of exciting sights and sounds waiting to be explored.
Photo by @brave_tracks
From its cobblestone streets to stunning colonial architecture, magnificent and ornate churches, and grand plazas, Quito is ever abuzz with reminiscences of its bygone era. The city is, also, nestled at the foot of the Pichincha volcano, which presents breathtaking views and prospects for hiking and adventure.
The surrounding Andes, also, boast varieties of flora. From the orchids found in the Cloud Forests that straddle the landscape from the north of Quito to the south of Vilcabamba, in Loja, near the border with Peru, to the wildflowers of the high-altitude páramos, there is always something floral to behold.
Photo by @hotelcarlotaquito
One can also, explore landmarks like the Basilica del Voto Nacional and La Compañía de Jesús, where there is an opportunity to have a firsthand experience of the city’s rich Hispanic heritage. There is also the Museo de la Ciudad which presents an occasion to engross oneself in the city’s unique art scene, including its colonial masterpieces. There are other galleries across the city, showcasing contemporary artworks.
Afterward, there is always an opportunity to mingle with the locals in the busy markets which are always thick with the scents and aromas of fresh produce and exotic spices. Here, you can find an eatery and savor the different flavors of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, a delicious blend of both indigenous and European influences.
The Friendly and Welcoming Nature of the People
Also, Quito is not merely a city of stunning architecture and rich culture, but also a place where warmth and hospitality thrive, just like the flowers that flourish in the entire country. Its people are known for their kindness and welcoming spirit.
A simple "buenos días" or "buenas tardes" is often met with a smile and a friendly greeting. You could be, just, wandering the busy markets, exploring the historic center, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in a local café, and you'll be greeted with a sincere desire to make you feel at home.
Photo by @hotelcarlotaquito
The people’s warmth goes beyond mere politeness. They are always eager to share their city with visitors. They offer tips on where the exciting hidden spots are located, recommend local restaurants, and even start lively conversations, mostly, about their cultures and traditions.
So impressive is this friendliness that, whenever they can, they'll happily guide you through the labyrinthine streets, pausing every now and then to share the stories of an exciting landmark and the rich history. This friendly atmosphere gives one the impression of a place where they can easily connect with the locals, learn about their lives, and feel a sense of belonging.
Photo by @quitotourbus
Beautiful Surroundings to Experience
Not only is it a city of exciting culture and friendly faces, but also a place with really beautiful surroundings, for all flower lovers. Nestled amidst the setting of the Andes, the city offers immense floral beauty, perfect for anyone attending the 2024 Expo Flor Ecuador.
Just outside Quito, there are enchanting destinations like Otavalo, known for its vibrant market, Cayambe, with its stunning landscapes and delicious local ‘bizcochos’ with cheese, Cotacachi, renowned for its leather goods, and Cotopaxi, one of the biggest and most beautiful snowy volcanos in the world.
Photo by @emanuel_sgarbi
Aside from that, the city is itself, a living garden. Parks like the Parque La Carolina, a verdant space at the city's heart, always have people intermingling amid nature and floral backgrounds. One can, also, take a stroll through the historic center and admire the colorful bougainvillea cascading down its colonial buildings’ walls.
For those with an adventurous spirit, venturing into the nearby Andean highlands offers a richly colorful experience presenting a spectacle of wildflowers. Picture yourself hiking through meadows featuring carpets of lupines, daisies, and lilies, and the Andean peaks providing a scenic backdrop! Enthralling, to say the least!
Photo by @diana_viajando
Quito’s Modern and Safe Transportation Services
The city also boasts a modern and safe transportation system, perfect for navigation during the 2024 Expo Flor Ecuador. Forget the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets, Quito's public transportation system is efficient and reliable and offers a variety of options to suit every need.
Photo by @quitotourbus
The city's modern metro system — Metro de Quito (MDQ) — provides a quick and comfortable way to reach major attractions and the Expo Flor Ecuador venue. The new Quito Metro, for instance, with a 97% safety rating, ensures you can navigate comfortably and securely, giving you peace of mind as you explore.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the city's extensive bus network offers a glimpse into everyday life, connecting one to diverse neighborhoods and local markets. The Quito trolleybus — also called Troncal Central Trolebús, or Trole — is an effective option, in this case. Taxis are, also, readily available, and offer a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Photo by @visit_quito
What’s important, however, is that safety is paramount in Quito, with well-maintained infrastructure and a dedicated police force ensuring a secure journey. This saves one the headache of exploring its markets, admiring the colonial architecture, or just heading to the Metropolitan Convention Center of Quito for the floral fair.
A Floral Fair That You Can Not Afford to Miss
Expo Flor Ecuador 2024 is one not to be missed. As one of the largest flower fairs in the world, it showcases the practically unmatched beauty and variety of Ecuadorian flowers, which are renowned for their bright and lively colors, fragrances, and long-lasting quality.
This fair, therefore, presents a chance you cannot afford to miss; to discover the best in the floral industry and expand your business network with top-quality, sustainable flowers, while also sampling all the historical, cultural, and natural marvels that this South American country has to offer.
Feature image by @hotelcarlotaquito, header image by @quitotourbus
