Has anyone traveled to South America before?  I'm getting ready to go on a month long volunteer trip in Ecuador during April, and I'm a bit worried as it is my first time going somewhere alone.  Any travel tips or stories about South America?  I'd love to hear about other people's adventures!

Hi,

 Ive been to Peru and Bolivia, i went in 2004 for a trekking trip 6 weeks.  It was the most incredible place to visit, and i have often thought about going back and working myself. 

 As your first trip alone, i will warn you it will be a bit daunting.  Especially if you have not travelled to poor countries before.  It is confronting, but still beautiful.  Do you speak any spanish?  If so that will help you greatly. 

 As far as travel tips and safety, never drink the water, eat ice or eat washed wet veggies etc as water borne diseases are everywhere, (my travel partner suffered terrible typhoid even though we had been immunised) so make sure you have hand sanitiser (gel to dry) and just be aware where you food comes from.  But do try Empanadas - great South American snack, like a pastie. 

hope this helps, if you have any questions feel free to ask!