Living in Ecuador

"I have a close friend who is going to move here. He loved his visit here a couple of months ago. I told him that the culture is very different form the US but that is true anywhere in the world. The only way to learn is through immersion into the life here. I took a job consulting for the municipio, another side task of teaching the local kids in our barrio English and I applied to teach at the local University. The more active I am, the faster I get what is going on here. Ibarra is no Quito; it is like most other towns in Ecuador, just a little larger at 150,000 people. My Spanish is constantly improving. Our farm is becoming more productive, our list of freinds is growing. But it all takes lots of time and personal investment of yourself," wrote one member in Ibarra.

"We live in Valle de los Chillos just outside of Quito and did not have any security problems during the nearly 3 week paro (strike) like there were in Quito. Food was in shorter supply and a bit more expensive but available. Propane tanks for cooking and heating water also a bit more expensive but available. Gas stations had gasoline. Pretty quiet. Since Quito is capitol, any demonstrations will likely be there along with the associated disruptions. Outside in the valleys, peace and tranquility," remarked one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Be prepared for pollution and robbery problems. Quito also has a large traffic issue and makes it hard to get around at busy hours of the day. The altitude is sometimes hard for people with asthma or the elderly. In general, it's still a small city and has a friendly welcoming attitude. It's easy to get away on weekends and go to the mountains for fresh air. The night life is fun and exciting in the mariscal area. I would research the city really well before renting or buying. Find the safer neighborhoods like Quito, Tenis or Gonzalez Suarez where there are many other expats," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"The current wisdom is to try any country on for size for a few months and Ecuador is no exception. And happily, the Ecuadorian government makes it reasonably easy to do, for up to six months. When you land and they stamp your passport that gives you a 90-day visa, Basically 3 months. The day after that visa expires you have to present yourself and your passport at an office of "Migración" where they will give you a slip of paper to take to a Banco Pacifico to pay $140 (not positive if that is still the amount but it was a few months ago for my step-son's Mexican fiancé). You take the payment voucher back to Migración and they stamp your passport for another 3 months. Problem solved. Happy exploration. That is the process for both Canadian and US visitors but I don't know the regulations for other countries outside of South America," said one expat in Cotacachi.

"Retiring in Ecuador can be an attractive option for expats as the cost of living is low and the natural beauty of the country is unparalleled. However, before making a decision to retire in Ecuador it is important to be mindful of a few things. Expats should research the local culture and customs to ensure they adjust to their new home in the best way possible. It is also important to research taxation, the pension system, and health care in the country to determine if their retirement plan is feasible. Additionally, it is beneficial to learn some basic Spanish as many people in Ecuador only speak the language. Ultimately, expats should consider how comfortable they will be in a new environment, and whether Ecuador is the right fit for them," said one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Get on online forum and arrange to meet one of the local expats. Ask them about local group and activities. Go online and Google groups for your interests and Ecuador, example pesca deportiva grupos Ecuador (fishing group Ecuador)," remarked one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Here you meet others through shopping for food, necessities for the home, and dining out. There is a Rotary International group here but they only speak spanish. If you have a talent, such as painting, you can set up in one of the parks and meet people. There are a dozen expats here that speak english and most are very helpful for newcomers. Also there are about 30 to 80 boats from all over the world at the marina, depending on the month, and most "boaties" speak English and are helpul. The marina owner, an American, also runs a restaurant there and he and his Columbian wife speak english," explained one expat living in Bahia de Caracruz, Ecuador.

"Weekly expat Fridays at 5, currently held at Sakura Restaurant on 3 de Noviembre in front of the Tomebamba River at the bottom of the Escalinata," said one expat in Cuenca.

"You'll meet a lot of fellow expats at the favorite restaurants in Olon around dinner... Try Roadhouse, Spondylus, Rasimar, Il Pirata, and MoMos. On Saturday afternoons a group meets at Jerry's Cabana on the beach. The pensianado/retirement expats in the area are an eclectic group and you'll find them enjoying the beach, volunteer opportunities in the community, as mentioned dining out, participating in and watching sports, games (poker is big), and generally enjoying life and their community," said one expat who made the move to Olon.

"There are now two expat groups which meet in Cuenca each Friday night at 5 p.m. One is at Zoes and the other at the Ecualyptus. From here you can meet and greet other expats and then extend you network," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"People here have one main priority- putting food on the table and caring for their family. They work 7 days a week when they have work. They sell items on the street, bake bread and torts for sale, clean, do general labor or what they can to exist. They are mostly industrious, though there are those few who will loaf, steal, and rob to stay alive. Those with solid jobs then concentrate on their children and homes. The wealthy associate with others like themselves. Most are middle class here- which would be considered dirt poor in the US. I have not met a single discourteous or unkind person toward foreigners. Everyone says Good morning or afternoon as you meet. They are respectful of older persons and help those whom are infirm and need assistence. In many ways it is like the US was back in the 1950's when life was slower, easier going and people had respect for each other," remarked one expat who made the move to Bahia de Caracruz.

"Salinas is a really nice place. Is like being in Guayaquil, but with a beach nearby, You will find supermarkets, banks, schools, hospitals and many more things than other ecuadorian beach. And a big plus is that is near Guayaquil (the biggest city in Ecuador and main commercial city of the country)," explained one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador.

"Come on over to Malacatos and stay! I have had ZERO crime issues in my neighborhood as we all take good care of each other and watch out for one another! I feel completely safe and live in a beautiful home up on the mountain with wonderful neighbors," commented one expat who made the move to Malacatos.

"The majority of people here are Catholic. There are a large number of Evangelical Prostestant Churches. Also many Mormons are here helping the poor. They are very tolerant of all religious followers here, as long as you don't tell them their religion is wrong," wrote a member in Bahia de Caracruz.

"I believe that the people here are warm and accepting. I certainly have not come across any hostilities to expats. They are very eager to be of helping nature," commented one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Ibarra is considered pretty diverse as far as Ecuador is concerned. The largest group is Mestiza at 75% with an equal amount of Afro, Indegena and Blanca...all at about 8%. There is lots of commerce here and it is surprising to me how quickly people here adapt to the internet and other technologies so readily. I forget that the US was once technology illterate," remarked one expat living in Ibarra, Ecuador.

"Highly recommend this wonderful school. They tailor their program to meet the needs of the individual child," remarked one parent with kids at Colegio Menor San Francisco de Quito (CMSFQ) in Cumbaya.

"I have meet folks who live on $1200/mo including rent. Our lifestyle is more like $1200-1500 and we own our place. That includes eating out, 2 grocery runs/month, beer deliveries and biweekly massages for two," said one expat who made the move to Manglaralto.

"The cost of living in Ecuador varies and depends on what city or region you are located in. Generally speaking, daily expenses can be kept low if you are living outside of the major cities. Groceries, transportation, and rent are generally much cheaper than in other countries. However, prices for imported goods, luxury items, and eating out in restaurants can be more expensive," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

"A couple can live here on $1200-$1300 a month which includes for example 3 bedroom 2 bath modern apartment. A single person can live under $1000 a month," said an expat in Vilcabamba.

"Prices are and product availability and servicing is changing rapidly. Though many things have always been cheaper (food and lodging) technological products were very dear 10+ years ago, they are not now. I bought a new computer yesterday and the price (with a bit of shopping) was 5% more expensive for the same thing on Amazon.com. us. I double-checked, all specifications. That being said, if you are looking for a city and country cheaper than Cuenca, there are plenty. They simply will be far less fun," remarked one expat in Cuenca.

"The availability of fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits delivered to your door or purchased at the market are very reasonable, a household of two adults averages $200 per month for groceries. Rental properties range from $450 up based on location and size. You can purchase a beachfront home for under $200K. or off the beach from $50K. and up. Restaurants offer daily "almuerzo" specials for $3, dinner starts at $4 and up. Utilities are inexpensive, propane gas $1.75 refill, water for the cisterna $15, large jugs of bottled water $1.50, Wifi basic plan $25, electricity varies based on use of AC during the hot season (January - April), no AC. $45 - with AC, $100 and up. Transportation via bus starts at .50 cents and goes up based on destination. Taxi varies based on destination, fare starts at $2," wrote one expat living in San Jacinto.

"Prices have risen some in the past 10 years but still, the cost of living is way better than in the States. My wife and I live very comfortably on little under $1,000 per month and that includes helping out other members of our family and traveling the country ( before the Covid-19 curtailed that! ). We do own our houses - a small 3-story in the city and a casa de campo out of town - but one of my stepsons and his family rent their semi-furnished, three-bedroom, 1 bath, home for about $300 per month. Utilities are very inexpensive. My monthly electric bill, inclusive of service charges for garbage and fire protection runs about $35 monthly. Water is $10.99 monthly, Gas for cooking is $3,00 a canister, and drinking water is $1.60 for a 22-liter container. Our conventional telephone is $8 and cable tv package & high-speed internet runs $85 per month. We pay $90 per month for IESS ( they just went up $5 ) for both of us - My wife is Ecuadoran and I am on her policy, so obviously my rate would be lower than yours might be, but you get a general idea. city-run Busses are 15 cents for Seniors and 35 cents for others. Taxis $1,50 - $2.50 depending on where you're going. My grocery bill at the supermarket for our family averages just under $300 per month and fresh foods, meats, fish, poultry, fruits & veggies, etc., and occasional restaurant take-out is never more than an additional $200 a month. Some imported food items are a bit more expensive than the States but usually not appreciatively. Fresh fish, meat, poultry, pork, etc., and fresh fruits and veggies are plentiful, inexpensive, and a larger variety than you'd find where you are," commented one expat who moved to Machala.

"The beaches are the main attraction in this area. You can participate in a friendly game of soccer, beach comb for shells, go fishing, paragliding or relax in a hammock on the beach," said one expat living in San Jacinto.

"We have a hiking group on Facebook called Vilca Hikers. Every week we explore a trail in our area and other villages around. People also enjoy horseback riding, bicycle riding, tennis, yoga, games like bridge and Texas 42 and dining outside in local restaurant gardens," mentioned one expat inVilcabamba.

"Of course, there is soccer! But I'm finding out from the youth that they are playing basketball and enjoy that very much also, as well as volleyball. They have a Water Slide and Fun place for the young people to go a few miles outside of Catamayo, and there are neighborhood volleyball matches for many ages, bingo, outdoor music concerts in the parks, and artists show their paintings occasionally. No golf clubs, that we know around here, sorry... But I am sure there would be in Cuenca and Quito," commented one expat who moved to Catamayo and Loja, Ecuador.

"There are miles of gorgeous beaches, what more can anyone want? Surfing is possible year round here as is scuba and snorkeling. Golf is a couple of hours north outside Manta," remarked one expat living in Rio Chico.

"I can highly recommend Cabalgatas Canoa. Horseback riding on the beach. The stables are run by Zia Sherrell of the UK who has been here for close to a decade. The horses are very well cared for and she gets top reviews," commented one expat.

"The weather in Ecuador is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The coastal regions tend to be more humid and tropical, while the highlands are cooler and drier. The rainy season typically runs from December to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in March and April," said one expat living in Ecuador.

"I would have to say the best time to be here, for us anyway, would probably be around June. At that time here on the coast, is the beginning of whale watching season. That time of year also is the dry season. If it rains then, it's usually overnight. We are currently in the rainy season, which makes everything green again. There are still alot of clear sunny days now, but when it rains, it rains. There have been times since we have been here, we had 2 inches of rain in 24 hours. But then it dries out pretty fast. Temperatures have been 80-85F for the high to 70-75 for the lows," mentioned one expat inCrucita.

"The climate is hot and dry. It is the rainy season right now so it rains off and on every day," commented one expat who moved to San Clemente, Ecuador.

"Rather warm, sometimes hot, but we have enjoyed warm after so many decades of cold in Minnesota. The rainy season has seemed long a few of the nine years we have been here, and it lasts nearly six months, (Nov. to April)," remarked one expat living in Catamayo and Loja.

"As I'm sure you already know much of Southern Ecuador experiences a rainy and a dry season. The dry season is approximately June through September, while the rainy season is approximately October through May. I actually check the radar on weather.com and find it to be relatively accurate. Right now we are in the middle of rainy season which mostly means daily showers late in the afternoon," commented one expat.

"Good prices for eating out! Variety in both Catamayo and Loja. We can eat a very healthy, good meal for $5.00 in Catamayo. We have not participated in nightlife much just to go out to eat at different restaurants where sometimes you might have someone serenade you at your table," remarked one expat in Catamayo and Loja.

"Seafood is the main course here on the coast of Manabi, there are other restaurants serving grilled pork, chicken, steak with sides of rice, salad and plantains. Chinese cuisine is available as well. There is one pub located in San Jacinto and three in the next village located ten minutes away via bus/taxi or a 25 minute walk on the beach," wrote one expat living in San Jacinto.

"While you will quickly adjust to shopping here, and find the supermercados very similar in layout and product to what you're used to, don't be afraid to go to the central markets to buy your fresh produce, poultry, fish, liver, veggies, etc. and test your haggling skills," remarked one expat living in Machala.

"People living in Ecuador typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and department stores. Many people also shop at small, family-owned stores and street vendors. Additionally, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Ecuador," said one expat living in Ecuador.

"We have organic market on Saturday and general market on Sunday. You can get fresh produce, meat and dairy. During the week many local shops offer fresh fruit, veggies, meat and other products, very plentiful. In Loja there is a supermarket called Supermaxi for more commercial and international products," mentioned one expat inVilcabamba.

"Local shops are terrific for produce, meats and most every day needs. It's like shopping in the US years ago with one shop just for meat and another for fish, etc. Many expats make the trek into Salinas to shop at the big box grocery stores or the mall at least once a month for those hard to get items," commented one expat who moved to Rio Chico, Ecuador.

"Crucita is close enough to Manta or Portoviejo to get the major shopping done. There are small stores here in town and there is a larger grocery store that just opened," remarked one expat living in Crucita.

"As can be expected, this is a whole new experience in itself. My wife is Ecuadorian so the process should have been easy. It was not. I visited numerous offices in several cities and finally got my visa after four months. All I can say is bring your patience and be prepared to deal with zero logic," said one expat.

"There are several types of permanent visa: Pensioner's -based on $900 income for a couple or $800 for a single, Investment - CD in a bank or property for min. $40,000 value, Professional - need a college or university degree. With proper documents the process for residency is not that difficult," commented one expat living in Vilcabamba, Ecuador.

"The latest residency visas are a two year temporary deal that can then be exchanged for a permanent one. Rules for qualifying stayed the same as when I came 3 years ago, but the temporary visa was a new idea instituted in 2017. The requirements of background checks and proof of ability to support yourself are pretty straightforward. Canadians have had good luck at getting visas before they arrive but most expats I know have used an expediting service or lawyer since the actual rules can change," remarked one expat living in Rio Chico.

"That is a tough one! We made some mistakes, but the best way if one would choose to live in the area where we are to go to Cuenca. We know an ex-pat that told us after we had some serious problems, that we should have been able to get everything done there instead of traveling to Machala or Quito.," said one expat living in Catamayo and Loja.

"I have chosen to keep both my US Medicare supplemental and also IESS public insurance here in Ecuador. As you may know the local healthcare here has been experiencing EXTREME financial difficulties so I haven't been so quick to drop my Medicare in the US. I am three years out of cancer and just don't want to take a chance yet in depending on soley on IESS. I've unfortunately watched it fail horribly for some friends. At least with both, I know that I can always return to the US if I need advanced healthcare. If you do plan on dropping it, it's one of those things that needs to be done from the US so something to keep in mind. For me the price is worth the piece of mind to keep both and it's honestly about the same price of getting private insurance here. I pay $170 supplemental in US and $78 here for IESS. Private insurance because of my pre-exisiting here was quoted at $350. Hope that helps! Just my experience," remarked one expat in Malacatos.

"We didn't use our U.S. insurance because the deductibles would have been more than what we paid for care in Cuenca," wrote one expat living in Cuenca.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Ecuador can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide access to higher quality care and more specialized services. Additionally, many employers offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Ecuador.

"So far we have been paying out of pocket for our medical needs. I just received my Visa last week. We do now have private health insurance for about $100 a month total for both of us. It doesn't really cover much but we were told it was needed in order to get our Cedulas. After we get the Cedulas, we can opt out of the private ins if we want. We are going to keep it and also enroll in the public health insurance for the bigger stuff. I believe it is about $90 a month each. Like I said, now we have been paying out of pocket for medical stuff. You can have a doctor come to your house, yes, a house call, for about $20. Medication is way cheaper here than in the states. No prescriptions are needed for most medications. Some common OTC medications in the States can be hard to find here," said one expat.

"I relocated to Ecuador April 2022. On May 2nd 2022 I woke up with slight left hand arm pain. As the day progresses I became nauseated and dizzy. On the 3rd of May I had a buddy take me to a local clinic. They were impressive and within an hour diagnosed me with onset of heart issue and suggested I see cardiologist. Being as I was here only 3 weeks in Ecuador I personally decided to return to Houston Texas immediately and flew back. On the 4th of May I was admitted to Memorial Herman Hospital Woodlands Texas. I received a Quintuple Bypass (CABG) Graft the following day. I recuperated 7 weeks and returned to Ecuador. I fly back to Houston every 6 months and see my Cardiologist for exams and stress test. I've talked to expats who've had good results from Cardiologist in Ecuador and one even had a double bypass surgery in private hospital and is quite happy. I personally carry no private insurance. I'm okay with their health personal they diagnosed my health issues very impressively. Would I go through major health surgery in Ecuador. No. Not unless it was life threatening. But that's just me. ," commented one expat living in Ecuador.