Useful Everyday Spanish Phrases

Here are some useful Spanish phrases that will help you with your daily travel through Ecuador.

One word you really need to remember is “Bano” which means bathroom. You may also want to remember these words as well “Varones” and “Mujeres” which mean “Men” and “Women” just in case the bathrooms are not marked.

Spanish is not entirely necessary in Ecuador but of course it is an advantage.  English is part of the curriculum for school children.  You will also find many Ecuadorians speak English.  Generally they have been educated or lived overseas.

Introductions and Greetings

We found the Ecuadorians are extremely polite.  You will always be greeted by a “Buenos Dias” or a “Hola” and always a hand shake and a kiss on each cheek.

Good morning (before noon)            Buenos dias
Good afternoon (before sunset)       Buenas tardes
Good evening/night (after sunset)    Buenas noches
Hello                                                 Hola  (pronounced ola)
Goodbye                                           Chao   
Please                                              Por favor
Thank you                                        Gracias
You’re welcome                               De nada
Congratulations                               Felicidades
I’m sorry                                          Lo siento
Excuse me                                      Disculpe/perdon
Come in                                          Adelante
What is your name?                       Como se llama?  
My name is ___                              Me llamo
Pleased to meet you                       Mucho gusto
How are you?                                 Como esta?
Very well                                        Muy bien
See you later                                 Hasta luego
I don’t understand                          No entiendo
Please repeat                                Repita,  (ray-peeta) por favor
To your health – Cheers to us       Salud
Enjoy your meal                            Buen provecho (As mentioned above the     Ecuadorians are very polite and will say this if passing your table in a restaurant).