La Cleta

Tucked away in east Quito is La Floresta: a quiet neighborhood with an almost Bohemian flare. A roundabout stands at the heart, where bakeries, mom-and-pop shops, and small diners bring people out on the streets. There is a rock wall and two bouldering walls within walking distance, but most importantly (IMO), is one of the best coffee joints in town: La Cleta, a "bici" café. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves:

 

 The café is less than a mile walk east from la Mariscal and a bus ride away from la Patria. The prices are decent and their cappuccinos are delicious.

Location: Calle Lugo N24-250 y Guipuzcóa, Quito, Ecuador
Hours: Mon-Sat, 15:00-23:00

When in Quito

Quito, Ecuador: The capital city of Ecuador who's main roads are like gladiator arenas for vehicles. Buses quarrel with taxis who wrangle with cars who hate motorcycles and the sum of all these give pedestrians and cyclists no room to breathe. Those non-motorists who dare trespass the domain of exhaust-spitting fiends have death wishes. Several times did cars actually speed up just as I was crossing the street, only to miss me by inches.

Riding in the bus rapid transit lane--the only"safe" zone for cyclists

I didn't expect to find in this tangled mess of a city any desire to move towards more livable streets. But there is hope. There is a distinct cycling community that is getting frustrated, and is on the brink of gaining momentum. Already there are some rad initiatives that are making clear to that pedestrians and cyclists alike demand space and respect.

Every Sunday from 9am-2pm, one of the main roads is closed and transformed into a 20km bikeway. The Ciclopaseo began in 2007, in collaboration with city council and Ciclopolis--Quito's very own bike advocacy organization. For most people, this is the only time they feel safe enough to ride their bike in the city. At least there's a start.