Located on a fairly quiet street on the outskirts of Mariscal (Quito's tourist area), La Casa Sol is colorfully festive, comfortable, and safe. The staff is exceedingly friendly and helpful and speak English. Proprietors Marcos and Lucia are indigenous people of the Peguche community who travelled around the world together. They've made La Casa Sol a showcase for Andean culture and music, where pottery and fabrics are handmade by indigenous artists and available for purchase in the gift shop. If you're lucky, you'll be treated to a private Andean concert in La Casa Sol's yard (check the website for a schedule).
Rooms center around a courtyard, and guests have access to a couple of small living rooms with a fireplace, bookshelf, TV, and board games. Step across the hall into the café for an excellent breakfast of fruit, fresh-squeezed juices, exquisite coffee, and warm breads and pastries. Later in the day small meals, coffee, and wine are available. The cafe is open between 7am and 9pm, but they will probably open early for breakfast if you have to leave.
All rooms have hot water and private bathrooms and offer a variety of combinations of beds for groups of friends, families, or the independent traveller. For a slightly higher price, you can get a suite with a TV, living room, kitchenette, and refrigerator.
Check the website (www.lacasasol.com) for additional information, a schedule or events, or to make reservations.