“Chivas” are a great component of the quaint Ecuadorian culture. Although in small towns they are still used for transportation, in the large cities they are used for celebrations, as a way to maintain some of the elements that make up culture. On the upper level of the “chiva,” there is a traditional band playing local tunes, whereas on the lower level passengers can get comfortable, sit, chat and laugh until the chiva arrives at its destination, where everybody gets off to enjoy a drink and a dance, in front of the beautiful backdrop of the awarded colonial Quito.