Found on Plaza de la Independencia in the Old Town, this building’s colonial architecture is very much in keeping with the neighbourhood (which is best seen via one of the Hotel Plaza Grande’s moonlight horse-drawn carriage tours). 15 suites with sitting areas are decorated in classic Ecuadorian style; dark wood furnishings, heavy drapes with period pelmets and marble bathrooms (plus the more modern addition of hydromassage tubs). The hotel has three restaurants; La Belle Epoque where gourmet meals are accompanied by operatic serenades;, Café Plaza Grande for traditional Ecuadorian cuisine to the sounds of live guitar; and El Caustro wine cellar with Flamenco music and shows.