I traveled to Quito in December 2005 due to a family emergency in Ecuador. I had never visited Ecuador before and found Amaranta on the internet. It was the best choice I could have made.
Ramon, the manager, tracked my flight, even when it was delayed by a day and ensured I arrived safely. Anything I asked for they bent over backwards to provide including Ramon providing his personal interpreting skills when I dealt with business at the hotel.
The rooms were extremely clean. They are not elaborate such as a Hilton or Sheraton, but they are spacious, well furnished, and were very well cleaned and kept, and they don't cost nearly as much as those other hotels. I had laundry done while there and it came back folded and hung up in the closet. The food at Serrano's downstairs was terrific and Ramon set up the big screen and provided movies to make a Christmas away from home a little better.
All of the staff were professional, friendly, and I wanted to bring them home with me when done. As a small hotel I got to meet and get to know the other guests and evenings down in Serrano's were nice to chat and relax.
Being in the embassy section of the city, only one block from the U.S. Embassy, and only a block from the police academy, the area of town was very safe, and I felt very safe staying there. There were some small markets nearby to pick up a few souvenirs or some bottled water, cokes, or snacks. Wireless internet access in the business area, assistance with international calls made conducting my business in Quito so much easier.

Overall, I would recommend this hotel to anyone. Ramon, thank you for making what could have been a very difficult trip so much better. Your hotel is great and I hope more people discover your little gem in Quito.