Sustainability in Banos

The buzz word in the Ecudorian tourism industry is "sustainability". Each and every goverment document that refers to tourism emphasizes "sustainability". Apart from being a politically correct word, is sustainability really a reality in Ecuador? Certainly not in Banos. Visit the official website of Banos tourism authority (http://www.baniosadn.com.ec/   It says "Uno de los centros turísticos más completos del Ecuador, posee una importante oferta turística, naturaleza única y biodiversa, gente amable y acogedora, el lugar ideal para visitar" (One of the most complete tourism centres in Ecuador. The tourism offer is important: unique nature, biodiversity, wonderful and welcoming people). I have spent one night in Banos. Biodiversity was replaced by noisy 4 wheel motorbike and off road buggies. The town used to have a bohemian atmosphere that I loved. Cafes have been replaced by cheap shops. Sustainability is also about providing tourists an experience consistent with the message delivered through marketing communication. This is my farewell to Banos. I hope that Ecuador would start living its promise of being a sustainabile destination.