Quito, 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.

"Before retiring in Quito, expats should become familiar with the different neighborhoods, research the cost of living, check visa and residency requirements, find out what healthcare providers and services are available, and get a good understanding of local language, customs, and culture. It is also important to know the basics of Ecuadorian law, taxes and banking regulations. Additionally, expats should look into any social and security programs offered by the government and make sure they are aware of any restrictions on retirees," said one expat in Quito, Ecuador.

"Come visit first, stay in a travelers hostel if you want to meet people, doesn't matter your age...see where you want to live, then check the local paper to find rental listings..," said one expat in Quito.

"THis process esp with minimal Spanish is NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART, trust me. I have struggled at times and have lived before out of the United States in South America. Visit, do your homework, trust that you will be taken advantage of (as I have several times with trusted Ecuadorians) and you REALLY have to WANT TO MOVE HERE sometimes to simply stay here. I am overall happy with my move/immigration to Ecuador but it is tough and challenging esp as a soltera at times, very tough," said one expat who made the move to Quito.

"One way to find a place to live in Quito is to use online resources such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and websites like olx.com. Additionally, you can consider contacting local real estate agents if you would like assistance in your search. Looking at local newspapers and digital listings can also be a great way to find an apartment in Quito. Finally, if you’re looking for an affordable option, you may find luck in negotiating with local landlords directly," wrote a member in Quito, Ecuador.

"Not easy... I was offered a teaching job at PUCE , then denied it when my papers came through very late but I knew the barrio where I wanted to live -- however, it has gone up in price and there were few options available. I walked around in the neighborhood I wanted to finally settle in and found what I need. This is a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED way to discover a good apt in Quito," commented one expat who made the move to Quito.

"A "suite" or two rooms and bath, lovely little place, good dueno and furnished nicely with condominio fee monthly it's $460. in the swanky neightborhood of Gonzalez Suarez. Noise here is bad," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Quito is usually modern and spacious, with large windows offering beautiful natural light and magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Many apartments come with contemporary, open plan designs and full kitchen amenities, whereas others feature colonial-style buildings and high-ceilinged apartments with Spanish-tiled courtyards. In addition, most expat homes and apartments offer high-end security systems and off-street parking, making them very safe and secure," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Much lower. I bought an apartment for under $30k and I have rented another for just $150 a month," remarked one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"The cost of housing in Quito varies greatly depending on size and location. However, both short-term and long-term rentals tend to be on the lower end of the international market, and for those who are looking for a more permanent living situation, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $200 to $500 per month. Longterm rental costs for a two-bedroom apartment range from $500 to $1,000 per month," wrote one member in Quito, Ecuador.

"DAMAS - Damas Norteamericanas y Britanicas - meets once a month and does service projects for the community, we have an English book library and a play group for moms with young kids. English Fellowship Church - all English speaking Advent St. Nicholas Church - 3 services in English, Spanish, and German," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito.

"Expats living in Quito have the opportunity to join many different clubs and activities, such as book clubs, hiking groups, language lessons and art classes. Additionally, there are many meetup groups and expat activities that are organized on a regular basis. For those that are interested in joining a church, there is also a range of religious and spiritual organizations that offer a great way to meet new people and make connections. Additionally, expats can attend local sporting and cultural events or go to pubs and restaurants. Meeting people from other cultures or backgrounds can also be achieved by participating in volunteering activities or joining a gym, yoga studio or martial arts class," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"When moving to Quito it is important to bring warm clothes such as sweaters, scarfs, and hats, as Quito has a cooler climate year-round. You may also want to pack rain gear as Quito has a distinct wet and dry season throughout the year. Sturdy and comfortable walking or hiking shoes are recommended due to the many outdoor activities the city has to offer. You may also want to bring over-the-counter medications, as some medications can be difficult to find in Ecuador. Lastly, it is important to bring any documents you will need to live and work in the country, such as your passport, visas, and work permits," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"I wish I had brought digital camera, laptop and more books...I wish I had left home medicines (widely available and cheaper in Ecuador), basics like towel, socks, etc (also easily available), furniture (very beautiful pieces avialable locally)," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"More books - not the Kindle I was given --personal effects, small paintings, items you love at home (small and transport friendly) Nothing in 2nd category," said one expat in Quito.

"When considering retirement in Quito, expats should become familiar with the cost of living. Expats should also consider researching their visa options and the process of becoming a resident. It is also important to understand the accessibility of healthcare, so expats should research the Ecuadorian healthcare system and whether public and private health insurance options are available. Expats should also become familiar with the language, as Spanish is the main language spoken in Ecuador, and may benefit from taking language lessons. Additionally, expats should consider the safety of their potential neighborhood in Quito, as well as the city’s climate and attractions that they may want to explore," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"The city has all sorts of businesses and industries, but most expats will find quick employment in some sort of education job. The universities have many opportunities for those with degrees and the English institutes are always looking for native English speakers. Small business owners find it hard to get started here, but some do very well," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito.

"Foreigners often hold jobs in Quito in the hospitality and tourism industries, such as hotel and tour guide positions. Additionally, some foreigners may find employment teaching English or working in various service industry jobs. Other roles may include working as a nanny or tutor, or providing IT, business, and marketing expertise. Additionally, there are often opportunities to work with embassies or international organisations," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"The Latino life focuses on family and friends. The Expat community focuses on service projects, mountain sports activities, and traveling around the country," remarked one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Quito is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the city's colonial architecture to hiking in the nearby mountains. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city also offers a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to stay connected and productive. Overall, Quito is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and affordable place to live," wrote one member in Quito.

"Expats in Quito appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals that create a welcoming environment. Additionally, many expats appreciate the art, music and cuisine of Ecuador, with a variety of culturally traditional dishes, vibrant fashion trends, and arts and crafts. The picturesque views, wildlife and natural beauty in Ecuador are also popular amongst expats, with many choosing to explore national parks and volcanoes to experience the country's stunning landscapes. Additionally, Ecuador has a wide variety of cultural and historical sites to explore, making it a great places for expats to explore and learn about the culture," said one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"Expats in Quito find it challenging to become accustomed to the local culture as the language of instruction and communication is predominantly Spanish. Many expats also experience a learning curve when it comes to understanding local customs, as Ecuador has its own unique regional customs and traditions. Additionally, expats find it difficult to navigate Ecuador's stricter gender roles, which are more rigidly defined than they may be accustomed to in other countries. Finally, Quito's high altitude can take some getting used to for expats since it is located in the Andes Mountains," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"Crime is a problem in the capital city of Quito. The city experiences high levels of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and robbery. Reports of violent crime are also common. Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the city, especially at night and in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, tourists should monitor local media to stay up to date with security alerts and warnings in the area," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Quito is a diverse city that embraces numerous cultures and people. People living in Quito come from many different backgrounds, and this variety is evident in the city's art, architecture, foods, and festivals. The people of Quito display a strong commitment to open-mindedness and tolerance, creating an atmosphere of respect and acceptance for differences. As a result, people in Quito are warm and welcoming to visitors of all backgrounds," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Quito is very diverse. We have a growing Asian community as well as a large expat community. The Quitenos are very nice and accepting of other cultures and people. The Latinos in general do not mix classes (the city is separated into neighborhoods of different classes.)," said one expat in Quito.

"I would highly suggest taking a look at all options in Quito. This school has made a rapid change to being an elitist, local school where students of powerful local families are given preferential treatment and their parents are allowed to dictate what is done at the school. Discipline is non-existent. The curriculum is constantly "being worked on" and the school is all about how it appears, not substance. Bullying by local, wealthy is prevalent and the school takes no action. The answer is to make the target and their family the problem and wait for them to leave while the bully is allowed to continue for years to come," wrote an expat with kids at Academia Cotopaxi in Quito.

"The Colegio Alemán, located in Quito, is one of Ecuador's top international schools, offering German-style primary and secondary education in English, Spanish and German since it was founded in 1960. It has earned a reputation for its top-notch academic culture and wide range of extracurricular activities, from cooking classes to robotics. The San Esteban International School, founded in 2002, is another popular bilingual school in Quito, EC. Its mission is to provide quality education in English and Spanish to an international student body. The school offers a wide range of advanced and specialized courses and integrates innovative teaching technologies, like project-based and online learning, into its curriculum. The French School of Quito, also located in Quito, is an excellent option for students interested in bilingual French education with the aim of teaching children to have the tools to change their world and shape their future. The curriculum focuses on languages, sciences and technology, sports, and arts, while also instilling values such as respect, discipline and perseverance in students. The American School of Quito is another renowned bilingual school in Quito, offering quality education in both English and Spanish since 1936. The school is known for its rigorous curriculum, dedication to student success and efficient delivery of diverse educational opportunities, such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and the co-curricular arts program," commented one expat when asked about in Quito, Ecuador.

"My wife and I live in north Quito, near the old airport. We really like this area because we are a short drive to downtown, close to a few malls, within walking distance to a great supermarket and a public park and many nice restaurants. We both love the old historic part of the city and we're only a 15 minute drive away. We go regularly and check-in to a hotel and spend the weekend there. It's like a little mini-vacation for us," commented one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Quito often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. They also enjoy the city's stunning mountain views, colonial architecture, and easy access to outdoor activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's traffic and air pollution to be a downside. Additionally, the city's high altitude can be difficult to adjust to for some," remarked one expat living in Quito.

"Expatriates, retirees and digital nomads living in Quito typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through language exchanges, meet-ups, and social events. Expats often join local clubs and organizations, such as the Quito Expat Network, which provides a platform for expats to connect and share experiences. Retirees and digital nomads often find themselves in the same social circles, as they often share similar interests and lifestyles. Additionally, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes in Quito, providing a great opportunity to socialize and make new friends," remarked one expat in Quito.

"It is best if you join an expat group. In my case, at 63 years of age I took a 3 month Spanish course, avoided English speakers, and joined a Rotary Club where I received a very warm welcome into the Spanish community," wrote one expat living in Quito.

"The Ecuadorian people have been very accepting and friendly to me. This is my home now and I'm very happy with my decision to move here," said one expat living in Quito.

"Quito is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of live music, dancing, and socializing. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and exploring the city's many parks and plazas. Quito is a great place to meet new people and make new friends, and the city's friendly locals are always happy to help visitors explore the city," mentioned one expat inQuito.

"I believe it's better to rent rather than buy immediately when first arriving in Quito so that you can check out other parts of the city," said an expat in Quito.

"When looking for housing in Quito, it is important to research the area thoroughly and visit the property in person before signing a lease. Make sure to ask about the security of the area and the availability of public transportation. It is also important to check the condition of the property and the quality of the appliances and furniture. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cost of utilities and other services, such as internet and cable. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding rental agreements," remarked one expat in Quito.

"Quito offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services and often have shorter wait times. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores throughout the city, providing access to a variety of medications and medical supplies. Quito also has a number of medical tourism companies that offer services such as cosmetic surgery, dental care, and fertility treatments," mentioned an expat living in Quito.

"My health insurance is with IESS and I've been completely satisfied with the care I've received. I have high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease. When the doctors at the IESS hospital learned this they ordered a complete lipid profile, an EKG, treadmill stress test and echocardiogram and placed me on a statin drug for my cholesterol and a drug for high blood pressure," said an expat in Quito.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Quito can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public health insurance is available, but it is limited and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Quito can be high, especially for specialized treatments or procedures," remarked one expat living in Quito.

"The cost of medical care if much cheaper than the United States. I had back surgery for $8,000 and I only had to pay $1,000 deductible," said one expat living in Quito.

"The cost of living in Quito is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Quito is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Quito can cost around $10 USD per person," said one expat living in Quito.

"In order to visit Quito, visitors must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Quito, Ecuador, applicants must submit an application form, provide a valid passport, and pay the applicable fee. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of financial stability, a criminal background check, and a medical certificate. Once the application is approved, applicants must attend an interview with the Ecuadorian consulate in their home country. After the interview, applicants will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," mentioned one expat inQuito.

"Quito is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and affordable cost of living. The city is home to a diverse population, with a mix of modern and traditional influences, making it a great place to experience a unique culture. The city is also surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Additionally, the cost of living in Quito is much lower than in many other cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budget," remarked one expat in Quito.