Questions.... many questions.....

I did a fair bit of research on driving down as I would love to drive my convertible vette there but it became very clear that this would be unrealistic.  Between the fuel expenses and the fact that u would have to ship the car over from panama(very expensive) to the fact that if u were to import the car the duty cost would be approx. 40% of the car's value , and then that is even if they allowed u to import it as cars over 4 years old cannot be imported (It may be 1+ yrs old now!).
So buying a car here is another choice .  But the downside to that is that new cars here are approx. 25% more than in the US and used cars are about 40% more than in the US.
  The good thing is that u should get a good price for the car u buy here as they hold their value pretty well.
Matt

Gypsy, I can't tell you about the need for mechanics in Ecuador, but I can only imagine that mechanics are usually needed just about anywhere. Vehicles are always gonna break, right?

But I will say that driving down through Central America is very iffy. There's a 95% that you won't come into any troubles. However, if you should encounter trouble, they might be of the worst kind. There was a story just today of hundreds of burned bodies being found along the US/Mexico border. I feel like none of those were likely Gringos, but whenever in Central America, you're a target. I've been all over Central America and they can be bad places if you're unlucky. And it's not just the bandits. The police will jack you up in a heartbeat just for driving while Gringo.

I know people that have traveled through Central America in rental cars and they had no troubles. And you likely won't have any troubles either. I've personally traveled all over Central America without too many troubles myself aside from some troubles with corrupt police. But a U-Haul driving down the highway with Gringos in it might make some bad guys think that there's some nice things in the back of your truck.

I felt safe in Ecuador. I've never felt completely safe in Central America aside from perhaps Belize which is a fairly civil country. I'm not going to advise you not to do whatever you need to do. I'm only trying to give you my own perspective to help you make your own decision.

I wish you the very best and hope everything works out for you.

Folks that drive down end up not knowing what to do with their cars, because they can't get them licenced and legal here. I had a guy try to sell me a sweet BMW GS 800 for about half the US price because he didn't want to ship it back to the US and could not get it registered here.

I think you'll find, that most mechanics here get paid so little that it will be tough to do anything more than just survive. I hate to be so negative, but your plan sounds like a difficult one to follow. Now, if you've got enough capital, starting your own shop might be a good way to go. Because labor is so cheap here, it's not a bad place to own a business.

Based o your bio, I'd say you are really up against it. Toolbox costs are prohibitive to ship. Driving down, really?? Not likely.
As for work, difficult at best unless you plan on doing work from your house which poses another set of issues. If not you may need to visit Guayaquil or Quito where there is a larger more auto driven populace as well as dealerships. Cuenca has a few but not like the other cities mentioned.
You'll also need to come to grips on the wage differences. Very substantial. Minimum monthly wage is about $350 bucks. Paints the money picture you're up against.
You will also need to get work approved and that usually requires a special skill set that isn't normally available through the normal populace.Auto mechanic maybe a challenge on that point.
These are just some of the difficulties yo're faced with.
Ecuador is for retirees.

Good luck

My understanding is a shipment of house hold effects in a shipping container is priced by size, not weight. You can get a 20 ft or 40 ft container. Check with Gary at 305-647-3237 in the USA, quoted 20 ft from Oregon about $7500, $9300 for 40 ft, from door to door.

Both Jesse and Tim are right on. What kind of business might your wife and M-I-L be interested in? Do you have any start up money?

Mackbutter.....Yeah, I read about the price difference between the vehicles there and "here", but was unaware about the "age" of the vehicle to be transported. I was hoping it might have been a viable choice, I just installed a brand-new engine in my Suburban.... (sigh).... Thank You for the info!

BrandonBP.... I too have heard some horror stories about people traveling through, and getting jacked by both bandits AND police.... yeah, I'm not too fond of burlap bags over my head, and my son would totally freak out. I would be, however, not towing a U-Haul, but a brightly colored "Gypsy Wagon" or "Vardo", if you will.... that would be used for my tool boxes going down, and extra living space when we arrive. Much to think about. And yes, cars do break... thankfully I am my own mechanic! Thanks!!

jessekimmerling..... Good to know, and like I mentioned before, I just put a new engine in my Suburban, I'd hate to let it go while it's so "young". I might think about the prospect of opening a shop. Mechanics do serve a purpose, and as it is now, I do quite a bit of "bartering" for goods/services... just traded a cord of fire wood for a tune-up... carpentry work for an intake gasket... so, with that, fresh food is just the same as money in my eyes... Much to think about... Thanks!

timo31750..... Yeah, I kinda figured about the shipping cost without doing any research yet. Since I am a "specialist" in Nissan Products, I did search for Nissan dealerships and found them in the major cities like Quito. I have also been a trainer for new techs that just came out of school, so maybe that could be my "niche" as well.... I'm not looking to be "money hungry" as some of my "American Brethren", we just want to "live well", or rather "work to live" as opposed to "live to work". We will have a retiree with us, so anything else would be supplemental.... Thanks for your input!!

BZULAUF..... Excellent info.... I'll be giving him a call.... We've already started the "give-away/sell" process in our minds (making mental notes) to minimize the amount of goods to ship. From what I've read so far, we'll need to snatch the stove and refrigerator also..... Thank You!

suefrankdahl..... Both my wife and M-I-L are artists... my M.I.L. happens to be one of the most talented multi-media artists I've met, creating some of the most beautiful jewelry I've seen. However, she also has "Macular  Degeneration"... her eyesight is failing, so, her artistic days are numbered. My wife, however, creates jewelry of her own kind, and by the time we're ready to move, she can step in as a Bellydance Instructor, well, to those who have an interest in Bellydance (don't foresee a huge market), and I am a drummer for Middle Eastern rhythms, so, I could work with her on that....

There would be lots of competition from local artisans and artists. Touristy towns on the coast maybe. Belly dancing might fly in expat communties where pensioner ladies want to stay fit. Can't remember which city but there is an Indian restaurant run by Pakistaniis. Can't remember where I read it. Training new Nissan techs? how's your Spanish? Very important, you need to check out the visa types and requirements if you want to make this more than a fantasy. My fantasy is the cruise down the Pan American with top down on my little Miata. I'd have to be 6'4", 3rd degree black belt, eyes in the back of my head, trunk and front seat full of automatic weapons and machetes,truck full of  SEALs following me and probably helicopter gunship too. Do you think I could get into the Navy at 57yo. Who would I write to to DC? Do they have female SEALS???

Suefrankdahl~
Yeah, I've read in other blogs and pages about the competition amongst artists, and can truly say my M.I.L's jewelry is truly unique and might add an extra flavor to the community. I've also been to resorts where bellydance classes were offered and most of the students were over 50, so it's definitely do-able with the right marketing. As far as my Spanish, well, "Spanglish" would be more apropos, and still learning. Hopefully, when the time comes, I'll have a good grasp.

Gypsy:

I hope I'm not bringing up something you are already aware of, but I mention it only because many people are not aware of the Darien Gap, which makes a drive down here impossible (without taking a boat around the gap). Most people have heard of the Panamerican Highway, and think it runs the full length of the two continents. If you already know about this, I apologize for bring it up.

Bob

Jesse:

The Canal isn't the issue. The Darien Gap is an area of swamp and mountains about a hundred miles long in southern Panama/northern Colombia -- it is, in practical terms, uncrossable (it's been crossed a few times by specially-equipped teams).

Bob

This well illustrates the Darien Gap problem.


Darien Gap: The Most Dangerous (Absence of a) Road
http://www.darkroastedblend.com/2008/09 … ce-of.html

I remember reading about a car ferry that went around the gap. There were a couple guys that drove a Dodge Omni from the US to Argentina. I did hear that the ferry was sort of an on again off again thing...

Here's some info on the ferry service. It looks like it just started opperating again in 2012.

Hello!

The rigth to import a vehicle is only, just only for ecuadorians (accord to SENAE)
After you get your residence visa, you can ship your stuff to Ecuador and dont pay taxes. I suggest get very sure that you can import your toolbox. You could ask SENAE, they are in Twitter.
If you want to drive all the way down here, you will have to meet the customs in the border and I think it is going to be pain in your a.. Because of the regulations on importing vehicles.

The cities with more oportunities on mechanic are Quito and Guayaquil. (personal opinion) I dont beleive Cuenca could be one because (I was told) people dont want to pay for a top line car service.

My husband bought a Mahindra pick up and the dealer in Cuenca has no tools to fix little things, they send the truck to another place (where they have no tools either) The last time that we went to the dealer, we decided dont let them take the truck without our presence. (because of previous issues) we found out that the mechanic was doing a low quality job. (no wonder so many problems)

We were told that they dont have all the tools because there is not market for top quality service.
People dont want to pay for it. We were told.

For you wife I think Guayaquil or Quito are better because there is bog malls and market for the stuff that she makes.
I say so, becaue my aunt make jewerly and she sell it in the malls. Then they re sell for 100% profit.

What about contacting the car dealers in mayor cities and send them your curriculum?

MariaPiaBlog~
Great info, and have already started researching dealerships. As far as your comnent about "mechanics in Cuenca", it seems as if it's more the reason to start something up, and be the "go-to guy". I have enough tools to perform minor repairs like a tune-up, to heavy mechanical like engine/transmission replacements. Being a "Master" certified mechanic doesn't come easy, and has its own challenges. I am by no means expecting "American wages", if I wanted that, I'd stay. A simpler life is what we're seeking, and with that, if a customer can't pay with money, a chicken or a basket of veggies will do just fine. I will seek your suggestions, and will remain optimistic about the results. The Universe is abundant, as long as you ask the right questions....

Thank You!!
Scott

BobH~
No, I was not aware... all this info is unfolding as time goes on, and I thank you for bringing it to my attention. I was already aware of the possibilities of problems crossing borders, being "gringo" for one, and being an "American gringo" for another. Once we collect the right info, we'll make our decision based on the facts provided. You, and the rest of the responders have been providing good food for thought!

Thank You!
Scott

I would like to clarify something here... I personally traveled through nine different countries, and felt the weight of our leader's decisions resting on my shoulders. I almost got into a fight with a bunch of Britts on a cruise ship to Libya, when they decided to close the ports to any vessel containing Americans. I'm tired of what "we're" doing to the rest of the world, and just want to live in peace. We're not looking to start a "Little America", or be a part of one... lord knows our reputaition is enough in the crapper. Having been blessed with growing up in NY, I had the opportunity to live/work/play with people all over this world. I ate what they ate, danced their dance and sang their songs... and that's what we're looking to accomplish upon moving to the area... to be in love. I was one of the only "gringos" accepted in one Spanish dance club in Queens... I didn't really speak their language, but had a common interest... dance. Not being an asshole helped too.

Upon moving down, breaking bread, opening a bottle with other Americans, sharing stories about people/places/things would sure provide a comfort level, and make us feel less "alone", but living with the locals... and I mean tuly "living", to be a part of something bigger than us, is what we've been trying to here, but our elected "gubbermint zombies" make it harder and harder....

So, we're looking for acceptance, and we're aware that we need to earn trust, and that we're not the assholes that are giving other Americans a bad name....

Our expectation aren't high, we don't need that much... we already live a simple life. To quote one of our favorite movies: "The things you own, wind up owning you"... here in America, you may own land, but do not own time... we would like to start owning time....

Namaste to all...

Also many expats in the urban areas seem to enjoy the freedom and lack of responsibility that comes with not owning a car.  So even if you could set up shop, you would probably have to get started with the locals, not many gringos.

Mugtech~
Yeah, heard about that too, and it just "might" be a welcoming change. As it is now, I literally have customers waiting in line, working 6 days a week, 10 to 14 hours a day. I live to work... and I'm very tired. The only day off is Sunday, and during warmer days, spend it working around the house. I miss my family, even though we live together....

Since you have your mind open to new adventures, I think you will find your little spot in Ecuador.

Most of ecuadorians are friendly and helpfull, specially the little guys who are not rich. They smile, the say: Buenas! When they see someone, no just to other ecuadorians or gringos, to everybody.

How is yor spanish is doing? That will be a key that could open so many doors!

I have an idea, is just a suggestion.

What about finding a ecuadorian friend? I know friendship is develop after years, but I mean, someone to hang out with. Some guy who is a mechanic and work hard but has no tools or not enough knowledge...

Could be trade thing.. You use their mechanic shop and you teach them new things.
Should be a little guy, not one who is rich and maybe does not care of people.
One who is friendly, smiles, a nice guy with no budget for education or tools.

BTW, I check senae website and airport customs, they say is ok to import car tools if it is not for sale. If you can read spanish, I suggest you take a look at.

When I have send them an email, they respond. Maybe if you ask them about what you will like to bring with you, they will help you.

MariaPiaBlog~
Right now I know enough Spanish to get slapped across the face. I have been listening to CDs that spit out words and simple phrases. Rosetta Stone will be my next purchase... I've been able to communicate with other Spanish-speaking people by use of pictures and charades, but I know that only lasts so long before I have to know something.

Hooking up with another mechanic sounds like a great idea. In fact, I'm doing that now with a small shop, and have helped increase sales/profits, securing more return customers with no vehicles returning due to something not repaired properly. When we come down for a visit, I'll speak to some local shops and see what they have to say....

Mugtech~
Our prices are competitive with other "mom 'n' pop" shops, and have been discussing raising prices already. As of now, we're the only shop in town that handles any make/model vehicle, with the addition of farm equipment. We are registered with AAA, so we get stranded travelers all the time. We are one of two shops in our region that offer Nationwide warranty as well... we couldn't reduce business if we tried. In today's economic times here in the States, it's not a bad thing... but it's wearing us out. While other shops are starving, we're eating well... We're going to be expanding the building, add another service bay where we can hire another mechanic, and train him correctly.... to be my replacement. Our business is founded on morals and ethics first and foremost... and we are loved for that.... It's getting to the point where if I want a break, I need to go, and there is no other shop right now that pays as well.... I'm a single income household... and here in the States, that's almost unheard of....

If you have not visited to check out how car reapirs work in Ecuador, it would be wise to do so…….it is a very different game here………there is much competition and the people do not expect to pay much in general.
Parts (repuestos) are a problem also……..depends on the make/model if they are even available.

I was not aware of the Darien Gap and thanks above for mentioning this……at one point I considered driving here but decided not to because of the very real risks.

In my experience (having studied in Mexico and Spain, spent time in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and having retired to Cuenca two years ago) -- the most important thing in moving to another country is your ATTITUDE -- having an open mind, being accepting of differences and willing to adjust to the local community and customs - rather than expecting them to adjust to yours.  From what I've read of your messages so far, it would appear that you have the right attitude.  While it is true that the presence of a large, active expat community and the fact that Ecuadorians are taught (to read) English in school, makes it possible to get by without Spanish (mime comes in handy!) -- learning the language not only makes living here so much less stressful -- the locals really appreciate expats making the effort and usually bend over backwards to help you.  I teach Spanish to expats because I truly believe you need to speak and understand the language to be happy here.  I also teach English to Cuencanos and enjoy the similarities and contrasts between the two languages.

First, you cannot drive the entire way.  There is an impassible stretch that you must ship your car around, which is _very_ expensive.

Second, you can't bring in a car anyway.  Only Ecuadorian citizens can import a car, and then only under very strict limits on age, milage and price.

Third, if you want to work here, realize you will earn Ecuadorian wages, which average just a tad over $300/mo.  Yes, costs are lower, but so are salaries... which after all is exactly why costs are lower.  I doubt you could earn enough to live the way you would like for a family of 4.

About the only way working here makes sense is if (1) you are willing to live a very poverty based lifestyle, or (2) you are actually working for a North American company getting North American wages.  That usually means something in the IT industry.  I know software developers, web designers, and other types of "you can do it anywhere" consultants that do quite well.  Those working locally for Ecuadorian companies, not so much...

I would think, the first thing to think about is how well you speak the language. The next thing is the location in Ecuador or for that matter in south America, ( there are other great places) to locate.  I would think a visit to desired places would be worth while before burning bridges.  Do you want to live in a big city? for example.  The cities there are very different from each other and have a very different feel about them. Not saying one is better than another but it depends on what you are looking for.  Some folks like to be near the ocean and Ecuador has some beautiful coast too.  Of course you know all this stuff.  I think you will need to be s citizen to get a job like the one you are interested in.  To my understanding, only top level management type jobs are for non citizens and are temporary for a set time for instruction.  I may be mistaken here but I think thats it. You may be able to teach over there in dealerships though??  I met a guy there that was there with CAT and instructing  on the new machines just sent there. Again it was temporary.   Good luck.  Look on you tube for videos in cities in Ecuador  and coastal towns if interested the the coast. It may help you.  Again good luck, If you want it bad enough you will find a way.   Phil.

I believe you can work any job you're qualified for once you have permanent reisdency and you cedula.

You guys are correct.
As soon you get your cédula you can aply for any job in Ecuador.

Most of the top jobs are for the owners or the familiy/friends of the owner of the company.
But also is true that top jobs are also for the most qualified person. Specially if the job is specific in something and there is not many people with the degree/education to do it.

When they bring someone is just temporary. Foreigns expect to get pay the same as in their countries and many times companies stop themsleves of paying that high.

Now,  I think you can develop your own bussines.
I have noticed that people dont want to pay the high rates of the mechanic shop in the dealer where they bought the vehicle. So, they look somewhere else, wich is an oportunity for someone like Modern Gypsy.

Hi,

Developing you own bussiness is a very good idea, and also this may allow you and your family to get a residence visa. Let me know if you decide to come to Quito!