I have thought a lot about this thread after being asked by others on here to offer a more complete explanation. So here it is.
I am coming to discover for myself if Ecuador is for me. To keep my lodging costs down and at the same time,extend a Christian helping hand to whoever might need my assistance, I will try this avenue.
If anyone has experienced the tragic events of a break-in at their home or petty theft, then you may be able to relate to the following two real life accounts.
The first, living in Guayaquil:
...... " We first visited in 2002, when it was probably the worst of the worst. By 2008, a major transformation: The Malecon was gorgeous, and heavily patrolled by police or private security at all hours.
Fast forwarding to 2010, it is very chancy especially for unaccompanied people at night and often by day. Thefts of personal electronics are minor, though at knife or gunpoint, and everyone buys the cheapest possible cell phones and don’t carry cameras or Ipods in public. Of greater concern is the “express kidnapping”, a group effort requiring at least one vehicle: The mark is either grabbed on the street or takes what he/she thinks is a legitimate taxi. Once inside the vehicle, the victim’s credit card is taken and he/she forced to disclose their bank password. Then the vehicle drives from bank to bank or ATM to ATM while the thief withdraws as much as the card(s) will allow. Then the victim is released."
The next account is from a Quito resident;
........ "I have noticed more street crime over the past year. I have twice lost cell phones from what looked like innocent young people, well dressed; they were pickpockets. I hope that I have learned something from this. In August, alone, three of my close friends were robbed violently, one stabbed in the stomach, and one had a home invasion by 8 masked men in Cumbaya. Other than in the stabbing, guns were used. I normally don’t go out at night unless I use taxi door to door. Two of my lady friends have had the experience of being kidnapped and robbed. One now refuses to take a taxi."
Please do not see this post as a condemnation of Ecuador or it's cities.
As frightening as these reports are, the events can easily be prevented. No one needs to live their life in fear!
This is what my past training has taught me. The bad guys are cowards. They prey on the weak, the old and alone, and usually in the dark. By simply removing oneself from these categories, one can greatly reduce if not eliminate the risk.
So I hope this thread reaches those who may be able to help me with a room or guest quarters. I will be in Salinas and northward up the Ruta del Sol region, from late Nov. thru mid Feb.2011. I am offering my considerable work ethic, my experience in personal and property protection and my everlasting gratitude in return.
I am a Christian man, big in stature and in heart. I hope this will find those that need some assistance.
God bless you all,
K
[email protected]
Both published letters above can be verified with links by privately messaging me.
I am coming to discover for myself if Ecuador is for me. To keep my lodging costs down and at the same time,extend a Christian helping hand to whoever might need my assistance, I will try this avenue.
If anyone has experienced the tragic events of a break-in at their home or petty theft, then you may be able to relate to the following two real life accounts.
The first, living in Guayaquil:
...... " We first visited in 2002, when it was probably the worst of the worst. By 2008, a major transformation: The Malecon was gorgeous, and heavily patrolled by police or private security at all hours.
Fast forwarding to 2010, it is very chancy especially for unaccompanied people at night and often by day. Thefts of personal electronics are minor, though at knife or gunpoint, and everyone buys the cheapest possible cell phones and don’t carry cameras or Ipods in public. Of greater concern is the “express kidnapping”, a group effort requiring at least one vehicle: The mark is either grabbed on the street or takes what he/she thinks is a legitimate taxi. Once inside the vehicle, the victim’s credit card is taken and he/she forced to disclose their bank password. Then the vehicle drives from bank to bank or ATM to ATM while the thief withdraws as much as the card(s) will allow. Then the victim is released."
The next account is from a Quito resident;
........ "I have noticed more street crime over the past year. I have twice lost cell phones from what looked like innocent young people, well dressed; they were pickpockets. I hope that I have learned something from this. In August, alone, three of my close friends were robbed violently, one stabbed in the stomach, and one had a home invasion by 8 masked men in Cumbaya. Other than in the stabbing, guns were used. I normally don’t go out at night unless I use taxi door to door. Two of my lady friends have had the experience of being kidnapped and robbed. One now refuses to take a taxi."
Please do not see this post as a condemnation of Ecuador or it's cities.
As frightening as these reports are, the events can easily be prevented. No one needs to live their life in fear!
This is what my past training has taught me. The bad guys are cowards. They prey on the weak, the old and alone, and usually in the dark. By simply removing oneself from these categories, one can greatly reduce if not eliminate the risk.
So I hope this thread reaches those who may be able to help me with a room or guest quarters. I will be in Salinas and northward up the Ruta del Sol region, from late Nov. thru mid Feb.2011. I am offering my considerable work ethic, my experience in personal and property protection and my everlasting gratitude in return.
I am a Christian man, big in stature and in heart. I hope this will find those that need some assistance.
God bless you all,
K
[email protected]
Both published letters above can be verified with links by privately messaging me.
