FAQs
Question
Where is the venue?
Answer
Wedding Venue: Vistamar Eventos & Lounge Capaes, Km 1 Ballenita Vía, E15 Ballenita, Santa Elena, Ecuador About Ballenita Ballenita is a small beach town on Ecuador’s coast known for its beautiful sandy beaches and stunning sunsets. It has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with plenty of local restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and unwind. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific coast.
Question
How do I get there?
Answer
Consider riding with The Bartons Bash Shuttle! (You can find more info under the Travel tab.) We usually don’t recommend renting a car here since driving can be a bit hectic if you’re not familiar with local roads and customs. If the shuttle isn’t your thing, there’s a private transfer option from Guayaquil to Ballenita for $20 per person, based on a group of 7. This option is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once we reach 7 guests, it will close—but don’t worry! If you’re interested and miss out, just reach out to thebartonbash@gmail.com. She’ll happily help explore other transportation options for you.
Question
Where should I stay?
Answer
We’ve shared some great recommendations on the Travel tab. If you’re looking for more options or need help finding the perfect spot, feel free to email thebartonbash@gmail.com anytime!
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Think beach chic and breathable! Lightweight fabrics, linen, cotton, and sandals are perfect for the coastal climate. Bring a light layer for breezy evenings. Bring a swimsuit. For the wedding: beach-formal attire (no heels needed—wedges or flats are perfect).
Question
What travel documents do I need?
Answer
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. No visa is required for US citizens for stays up to 90 days. Bring your wedding invitation or event info, just in case.
Question
What currency is used?
Answer
Ecuador uses the US dollar (USD), so there’s no need to exchange currency if you’re coming from the US. Bring small US dollar bills ($1s, $5s, $10s) for tips and small purchases. Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted, but cash is useful for markets and street vendors.
Question
What’s the weather like in Ballenita in September?
Answer
Expect daytime highs around 24°C (75°F) and cooler evenings with lows near 21°C (70°F). The month is typically dry, with only about 28 mm of rain and just 4 rainy days, making it one of the driest months of the year . Humidity is moderate at 81%, and the average sea temperature is a comfortable 22.4°C (72.3°F)
Question
Will my phone work there?
Answer
Most major carriers offer international plans or daily roaming options. Verizon often includes Ecuador in some plans or they often offer international roaming for around $10/day. Be sure to check with your provider before your trip to see what’s included or to enable international service. Wifi is available at all hotels.
Question
What time zone is Ballenita in? How does it compare to US time?
Answer
Ballenita is in the same time zone as CST.
Question
What health essentials should I pack?
Answer
Sunscreen (SPF 30+ is a must under the equator!) Bug spray (especially for evenings) Medications (Tylenol, Tums) Travel tissues & wet wipes Hand sanitizer
Question
Is it safe to eat local food and drink the water in Ecuador?
Answer
Street food is a beloved part of Ecuadorian culture and can be a delicious part of your trip but traveling to a new country, especially one with different food, water, and climate, can be hard on your body. To stay healthy and avoid common travel issues like stomach trouble or getting sick mid-trip, we strongly recommend bringing two key supplements. HealthyGut Restore Helps prevent bloating, gas, and indigestion so you can actually enjoy the amazing Ecuadorian food. CinnaChroma Build your immune system ahead of time so your body can handle new environments, stress, and travel exposure. We’ve arranged a 70% discount on both. If you’re going to pack anything for your health, make it these. Email thebartonbash@gmail.com to claim your discount. https://bartonsupplements.com/products/healthygut-restore
Question
What should I know about bathroom etiquette?
Answer
Toilets in Ecuador typically cannot handle flushed toilet paper. Use the waste bin provided instead of flushing paper.
Question
Is Ecuador safe for travelers?
Answer
Just like traveling anywhere, it’s a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables tucked away, avoid walking alone late at night, and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Taking these simple precautions will help you enjoy your trip with peace of mind.