1. If Cortés could do it, why can´t we? Who led the Spaniards to the territory that is now Ecuador and when did they arrive? What were the Spaniards hoping to accomplish? Who inhabited the region at that time? Why was their society crumbling? When was conquest complete?

2. Beside every great man, there is a great woman! When did Ecuador gain independence from Spain? How was independence achieved? Who was Manuela Saenz and what role did she play in Ecuador´s independence?

3. This land is my land, it is not your land!!! Why did war break out between Peru and Ecuador in 1941? What was the end result of the conflict? What were the Paquisha and Cenepa wars and when did they take place?

4. Whew! It’s heating up down in Ecuador! What is Ecuador's "Avenue of the Volcanoes"? What is the name of the highest active volcano in Ecuador? Why are there so many volcanoes in Ecuador?

5. It’s evolutionary! Who was Charles Darwin? When did he land on the Galapagos Islands? Why are the Galapagos Islands so important? What is unique about the flora and fauna of the Galapagos? What is the difference between a Red and a Blue Footed Booby?

6. I get so lonely, baby, I could die! No, it’s not Elvis, it’s George—“Lonesome George.” Who is he and why is he lonesome? Where does he live?

7. Is your mama a llama? Or is she a vicuña? What is the difference between guanacos, llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas? What purpose do they serve?

8. Through the eyes of a humanitarian. Who was Oswaldo Guayasamín and when did he live? What are major themes in his work? Find examples of his work on the internet. Does it remind you of anything you have seen before?

9. You can´t get this at Burger King! Some of Ecuadorean staple ingredients are found in these common dishes: cuy al horno, llapingachos, and patacones. What are the principal ingredients? And you might actually find Charqui at your local convenience store. What is it? And where does the name come from?

10. The best and longest Christmas Pageant ever! What is El Pase del niño viajero? When and where does it occur? Who participates? How long does it last? Find images of the festival on the internet. Have you experienced similar festivals in other countries?

11. Legend has it. Ecuador is a country rich in culture, legends and folklore. When traveling through Cuenca, you will be able to hear the story of the Enchanted Stone. Also, according to legend, the indigenous foundation of Quito revolves around the story of the King and a falling star. What are these two legends about? Can you think of any similar legends in your country?

12. More reasons to drive a hybrid. Where is the Yasuni National Park and why is this region important biologically speaking? What is happening in this area that is endangering the park and its indigenous inhabitants, the Huarorani?

13. Where north meets south. What is the Mitad del Mundo and where is it located? What is special about this city? What happens during the equinoxes on March 21st and September 21st?