· What is the weather like? The winter months are hot, sunny, and wet with an average temperature of 25 degrees centigrade in the day. The summer months are dry and cool with a lower average temperature. The nights are generally cooler in both seasons.   · What kind of clothes will I need? Bring a little bit of everything. Clothes that you can layer are best. If you are planning on arriving or traveling in the Sierra, you will need sweaters, a jacket, good walking shoes, and other warm clothes. In Bahía, you will need shorts, t-shirts, a bathing suit, and sandals. Long pants and shirts may be necessary for a cool night in Bahía.   · Do I need a visa to enter Ecuador? Most travelers do not require a visa to visit Ecuador as a tourist for up to three months. Check with the Ecuadorian Embassy or consulate in your area for specific details about visas.   · Do I need to take malaria medications? You will need to consult your doctor or local health department in order to determine if you want to take malaria medications. There are cases of malaria in the region. Locals do not take medications. Some tourists decide to take medications and others do not.   · Do I need to get any preventative shots or medications? You will need to consult your doctor or local health department in order to determine if you want to get any preventative shots or medications. Some tourists get Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, and Yellow Fever shots and take an oral Typhoid preventative medication.   · What is the currency of Ecuador? Ecuador uses US dollars.   · Is there an ATM machine in Bahía? Yes, the ATM machines accept VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Cirrus, Diner's International, and Banred at the Banco de Guayaquil and Banco de Pichincha.   · Can I use traveler's checks in Bahía? Yes, the Banco de Guayaquil cashes traveler's checks.   · Is there telephone, mail, and internet access in Bahía? Yes, there are internet cafes with internet access and net-2-phone access for international phone calls. There are also telephone companies where you can make international phone calls. Internet use costs approximately $2 per hour. Their is an Ecuadorian postal service, but it is very slow. The minimum time to receive mail is two weeks. Genesis Spanish School offers 30 minutes free internet access to the students for each day of class!!   · What is there to do in Bahía? There are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy Bahía´s natural environment in addition to indoor activities. There are also countless volunteer opportunities. See the "What can you do in Bahía de Caráquez, Ecocity?" page.   · What is there to do at night? The discotecas and bars are open on the weekends to dance salsa, merengue, and popular music or just to hang out and have a drink. Sometimes there are programs at the local theater. You can also rent a movie at the local movie theater.