Coming up to Christmas!

Christmas Abroad (in Ecuador)

The sun is out, the air is warm, and there's not a hint of ice or snow... Ecuador is on the equator, (where the ozone layer is apparently much thinner) and we had to generously cover ourselves with suncream this morning before leaving home in T-shirts... Franchesca hopes to go with her friend to the outdoor swimming pool this afternoon.

Christmas is totally commercialised in Ecuador. The shops are full of Christmas decorations,little nick-nacks, Christmassy food, and of course, presents - all the latest technology is on sale! The shopping centres are decorated with Santas, Christmas trees, and raindeer, and stars hanging from the ceilings,... probably like any city in the world...

In the shops there are many Nativity scenes, (a great variety of styles and complexities) and all the accessories required: extra cows for the stable... angels, shepherds, etc, which can be bought separately.