Yesterday's magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the northwest part of the country, along the coast.  Heavy damage was reported in towns of that area, with large buildings up to six stories high having crumbled.  The latest death toll is skirting 300.   

The effect of the earthquake was felt as far away as Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main commercial port.   Some houses were damaged, and some road infrastructure also.  Quito also felt the quake, but with little effect there.    

For visitors to Ecuador, unless you are traveling to that part of the county (cities of Esmeraldas, Manabi and Guayas), your travel plans should proceed without any interruption.