Expat Community > Ecuador

relyondiana
Joined 2016
Posts: 29

Checking out Ecuador

8 years ago

Just saw the message from Joe and I have similar plans though I am apparently on a tighter budget. I hope to come in November for 2 weeks and see Cuenca, Loja, Vilcabamba, Manta and Crucita. That may be a lot in such a short time but if Ecuador is what I dream it to be, I'll be retiring next year and would like to make it my home. If I can narrow the search a little with this trip, I'll come again in the spring and try to decide which part of the country is most attractive to me and finally make the move (& probably one more short trip) by next fall.
Here are most pressing my questions:
I am a single woman in my 60's, not fluent in Spanish but working on it and have a translator app!
I will be dependent upon buses and staying in inexpensive hostels. Will I be safe? I know not to flash money nor expensive jewelry or electronics, but...
Can you suggest places to stay that won't break my budget?
Are the buses really as dependable/comfortable as one is told in the mags?
Which places might one have a problem with the water or street vendors? I have a pretty strong system, but would hate to spend most of my trip in the loo.
& like Joe's wife, I am mosquito fodder. If one is within 50 miles they will seek me out. Any places to avoid and should I bring my own supply of Cutters?
This may sound silly, but I'm going to try to pack all into one small suitcase. Would I be better off with a backpack? & where can I store it during the day? Do the hostels or bus stations have storage lockers?
Any information or advise that you can give me will be really appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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