HGQ2112
American expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
262
Contacts
10
About me
American
Lives in Salinas
Registration: 28 March 2011
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
Ricardo, really liked your point about an attorney. Hope the public will listen to a fellow property buyer, with more attention than they listen to a real estate industry professional. A good lawyer will run you between $800 - $2,500. Yep, quite a ... Read More
Ecuador Coastal Towns and Cities by jwhalen55
Happy New Year all, You all have been helpful on my previous forum topic on moving to Ecuador but now have some additional questions on the coast in general as compared to the mountain cities (Quito/Cuenca). Bear in mind that my wife has arthritus ...
To OP: 1.) Cost of living in Salinas or Manta etc. compared to Cuenca/Quito. Similar, though Cuenca offer better values on housing rentals. 2.) Overall better climate (ie. Salinas vs. Cuenca. We like it warm. We use to live in Fort Lauderdale. If ... Read More
The Elephant in the Room - Mirador San Jose - 'Development' in Manabi by Gringointhesand
Good blog post on Mirador San Jose ... the development no one wants to talk about! From someone who LIVES there: https://www.papajefe.com/mirador-san-jose/elephant-in-the-room/
Smh ... and then we get grief when we try to warn folks about the perils of buying into the latest "pipe dream by the ocean" in Ecuador. You either need to do your own due diligence, carefully, PRIOR to signing papers, let alone putting ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Cumbaya is on the outskirts of Quito. I would not define it as isolated, but definitely less congestion and density than Quito city proper. Cumbaya has been experiencing a growth rebirth over the last 7-8 years, however. Will that trend continue and ... Read More
Black Americans by Seminole13
Good day, I was wondering how the reception is for black Americans? I have been reading post but I don't think I have read anything from a black American perspective on living in Ecuador. Please give us any input on the reality in Ecuador. We are ...
Keljam, You have been there ... liked what you saw, so seems good enough. It is an industrial-based town, founded on the tuna industry. It is a somewhat typical port town environment. Remains Ecuador's largest truly coastal city. If you were ... Read More
Payment methods in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Ecuador, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
The advice provided above, as daunting as it may appear, is accurate. Don't let the "sunshine and roses" crowd tell you differently. Ecuador is a good place to live for some. However, it does not come without its own very real ... Read More
Does Ecuador screen for mental illness? by cre8onlyluv
I have been diagnosed with Bipolar Type II. In type II the only mania is a very low-grade one - i.e. I feel happier and talk a little faster than usual but still within the normal behavior range. I do take my medicine regularly so generally no ...
[Does Ecuador screen for mental illnesses in their residency processes like the USA does?] No, but based on some of what I see posted here ... perhaps they should. Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
If the property is well run and professionally managed ... bed linens, towels and all the customary items will be available. Specifically referring to Salinas, here, because it is set up as a vacation rental market, primarily, and thus most people ... Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
Really? Many? Then why is it always the same 2-3 uninformed? Curious, no? Yeah, very well qualified. A full 35+ years of well versed and qualified. If you are not -- and that was your characterization, not mine -- by all means choose to remain ... Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
Smh. If you have a point ... state it ... openly. If not, why go misdirecting folks that just need help? Exactly the opposite of what a forum like this should be. I will stack up the credentials of Mr. Camacho and Vivanco y Vivanco against anyone ... Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
To the OP: Vivanco y Vivanco are one of the premier law firms in Ecuador. They have offices across Latin America and in Miami. Mr. Camacho, Esq. has received his legal education from one of the finest law schools in Ecuador, as well as receiving ... Read More
Living on the coast around Manta! by dltoomey
Need more recommendations on where to settle around Manta! Where do you live by the ocean?
How are you defining "around Manta", because some of the responses I am seeing don't seem to mesh with my interpretation of your question? Read More
Best cities for retirement in Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everyone, An increasing amount of people want to spend their retirement abroad. Would you consider giving a few tips to those looking into Ecuador for their retirement? What are the most attractive cities for retirees in Ecuador? Why ...
There is no best city or best cities. Too much depends on individual lifestyle preferences, budgets, Spanish proficiency, climate preference, need for socializing, and ... the list goes on. Like anything else, there will be a bit of give and take ... Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
You will hear all about the do it yourself crowd. For every one good story, I hear two bad ones. The temptation is obvious ... cost savings. Hard to argue with that sirens call. My suggestion is fight the impulse and just go to a true quality legal ... Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
You got the best advice already ... get a reliable lawyer ... and they are rare. I can give you recommendations for Quito, Guayaquil or Salinas/Southern coast. Think in terms of what your true lifestyle is ... not what you imagine it might be. Folks ... Read More
International Livings seminar, Worth it? by Txsbigfoot
We are planning to retire and move in late spring 2013. Been reading about the fast track conference in Quito sponsored by International Living. Cost 850, flight from Houston 1000, Hotel for 4 nights 400. I am trying to justify this trip for the ...
Gayle, crime DOES exist in Ecuador. For all types of violent personal and routine property crime, Ecuador actually does not fare well statistically. One particular crime statistic, rape, is notably high per capita. Where Ecuador does rate well is in ... Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
Exceptional attitude. Good for you! Read More
Accommodation in Ecuador: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Ecuador just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
My side ... always buttered on the consumers and expats side ... not the side of those looking to exploit faux terror as a manipulation tool. You can get murdered, robbed, and snookered in Ecuador ... Colombia ... USA ... France ... and Hong Kong. ... Read More
International Livings seminar, Worth it? by Txsbigfoot
We are planning to retire and move in late spring 2013. Been reading about the fast track conference in Quito sponsored by International Living. Cost 850, flight from Houston 1000, Hotel for 4 nights 400. I am trying to justify this trip for the ...
I was just reminded by this of the old song from the 40s that had a chorus that went: "You've got to accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative..." That seems to be IL's theme song.The concluding line in that refrain was: ... Read More
Accommodation in Ecuador: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Ecuador just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
Bhavna, while my response is truly being offered respectfully, from the perspective of a truly global industry professional of 35-years, I won't hold my breath that it will see the light of day. If I honestly can point to one thing that is ... Read More
thinking of buying a house with a piece of land around it by Khaledamr
Hello I am Khaled Amr from Jerusalem currently living and working in Amman Jordan. I have been thinking about retiring in Loja Ecuador. I don't really want to completely retire though. I want to do something like raise sheep. I am thinking of ...
Khaled, You need to go into Loja, or anywhere in the world, and explore for yourself. One person's experience, or even 10, does not necessarily define what your own experience might be. By way of full disclosure, I am global real estate ... Read More
Oceanside Farms - Another Las Olas? by SawMan
I was surprised to see this real fluff piece today on a new coastal development touted as a "luxury agrihood community" in Puerto Cayo offering "luxury farm ...
As I do, whenever I post on the topic of real estate ... by way of full disclosure, I am a real estate investment consultant, with client interests remaining in Ecuador, though we have the country presently rated a "Sell". That about ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
I would just point out that 2.5 million firearms in a country of about 50 million is not that much - that's just one firearm for every 20 people - the USA by comparison has more firearms than ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Nope, I will just restate what I posted earlier for the sake of members who read this board. HGQ2112 posts are biased and quite desperate in an attempt to portray Ecuador negatively. More importantly, HGQ dishonest argument in trying to equate ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Well stated, JadeRIver. Sadly, your closing line is notably factual. Some folks feel the Internet is their personal bullhorn for disinformation, which will, of course, go unchallenged. When challenged in a public or semi-public forum, they can only ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Setting up what is commonly known as "strawman arguments" is a common way those without facts debate topics. The facts: 1. I am very open to criticism, regardless of how it is presented. I will, however, reserve the right to respond ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Murdered by a Venezuelan citizen. This is why local authorities are demanding police/judicial certificates from Venezuelan citizens in order to enter the country.Favorably noted. Now ... why wasn't that same distinction made about the recent ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Listings, as defined as properties for sale ... as of today ... about even. Now a smart person would just leave it there, at a very honest response, especially since it is obvious the game you are playing. Maybe you should try straight up ... direct ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Ahem ... just sayin'. U.S. citizen from Washington State Murdered in Ecuador Posted on March 5, ... Read More
Moving Family To Ecuador All Advice is GREATLY Appreciated by mtownsell
Hello, I'm a father of 3 beautful kids, 5 year old boy, 3 year old girl and 1 year old boy. My partner I have been doing a lot of research on moving to Ecuador for a simpler life as far as family time, healthy food and day to day exploring ...
Outskirts of Quito, perhaps. Areas like Cumbaya. If you prefer ocean ... Outskirts of Manta, or live in Salinas proper and utilize the big city of Guayaquil 2 hours away. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Generally, good ... sage advice ... based on a realistic assessment. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Yeah :.. when commenting specifically on real estate topics, I have always, by way of full disclosure, mentioned that I am a global real estate investment consultant. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
My team that has remained loyal throughout are not just good ... they are truly exceptional. And, yes, I owe much of my success to their valiant efforts in uncovering dynamic off-market opportunities globally and servicing our clients to standards ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Conjecture should never be accepted for anything other than that ... an opinion yet to be substantiated by fact. If someone wants to turn that into a sliding scale, based on their own conjecture of others ... well ... have at it. I will stack up my ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Cali is a violent city of 2.4 million people and on our avoid list. Ecuador ranks low in homicide rates. It was already stated that it is the ONLY major reported crime category in which it bests Colombia. This does support what I already stated. I ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Like most "big boy" capital city airports, Quito's airport is usually pretty busy and well used. Smartly laid out airport. Guayaquil's airport is also fairly well used ... enough to warrant consideration of building an expansion ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Well ... speaking of cafes ... yum. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Lol. Thanks for the thoughtful tip. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Ok ... I didn't initiate the use of the term ... for the record. But if we want to talk about "bs" ... then we have well strayed into the realm of the laughable. Economy does not matter to the current and/or future improvement of ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Yes ... and residential real estate is a foreign asset. I was presuming very few, if any, of our readership here was holding on to a large, Chevron-sized oil refinery, for example. Now ... who knows, I could be wrong. Hence my comment about yeah ... ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Venezuela has reached such an extreme, more than Nicaragua, and just about as bad as Cuba. Both Bolivia and Argentina have nationalized several Spanish companies. An interesting list by country of nationalizations is ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
If we think about it, a bad economy is inconsequential for expat retirees. For example:, in Quito some of the best areas in the city have much cheaper rent compared to the oil boom years. I posted an article stating such somewhere on this forum. An ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Yeah, numbers look much better for Colombia and Panama, without either the debt risk or political uncertainty. Ecuador has a long way to struggle in returning from the triple whammy of the oil price drop + earthquake + strong US$, against the ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
More objective data for the topic, as we look to Ecuador's immediate future. ECUADOR – ECONOMIC OUTLOOK Public Cuts Will Weigh On Growth Key View • Ecuador's economic growth will slow in 2019, as President Lenín Moreno ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Thank you for the much needed dose of reality, from those actually living there. Some would have the gullible believe that Quito is like having the Autobahn to one's self ... nary a wisp of traffic. Smh. Bad enough my career industry perpetuates ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Good luck on your search. Enjoy immersing yourself in each area as much as you can, to best understand it and whether it is right for you. Sometimes ... great places to visit, reveal challenges once you actually live there. Looks like you are going ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Dumluk, Astute observation. I know for some it is hard to hear, but with the inexplicably sustained valuation of the US$, Ecuador is just no longer the bargain it once was. I will stick solely to my industry, but the US$ can buy so much more real ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Mtownsell, You seem to reference someone in your post. Might help if you use the quote function or otherwise identify the individual you appear to be referencing. Just friendly advice. Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Brad, hard to over-generalize. Playas is the mythical beach town that the good folks of Guayaquil keep trying to build up, in order to replace Salinas, because they resent the independence that Salinas has shown, ever since it broke away from Guayas ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Thank you for the much needed dose of reality, from those actually living there. Some would have the gullible believe that Quito is like having the Autobahn to one's self ... nary a wisp of traffic. Smh. Bad enough my career industry perpetuates ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Brad ... genuine ... no sarcasm ... truly appreciate the concern and advice. I have been doing this globally for 35 years. It teaches you a lot. One thing it teaches you is that its a big world out there. Everyone's got options and it's ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
And I would strongly urge that anyone considering a move or vacation to Quito consult the map frequently, read up on the bazillion traffic horror stories in the public press, and consult a wide cross-section of folks living in Quito. Balance is ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
I live in Colombia. Am on constant travel because of my business. We are a global real estate investment consulting operation. As part of the consulting services, we handle certain types of financial matters, for our clients. Just to be clear. Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
No one stated that Quito has "no traffic." The Google traffic map that I posted does however contradict your claim that Quito has "horrid traffic." Again, anyone can access the map, and as a matter of fact one can even view how ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
No traffic in quito? Interesting. Traffic was listed as THE primary reason for building the rail, as cited by Quito politicians. They have pico y placa restrictions, where cars with certain license plates cannot even be on the road on certain days, ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
No ... NM does not use the UN source. They POORLY use an amalgamation of varied sources, many of them dated. This has been the source of much online discussion. The problem is that what they don't know is that many of these sources use the same ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
User friendly is not accurate. It is just ... that ... friendly ... like the local barfly. Very ... friendly. There is no tie ... facts bear out that Ecuador ranks MUCH worse, in most major crime categories, except homicide. I already wrote about ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
NationMasters is no more a definitive source than Numbeo. Neither trumps the UNODC data, from a standpoint of credibility. Go anywhere, with NM data and UNODC data and see which gets recognition ... lol. But I will play .. from NationMasters rapes ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
OsageArcher - respectfully ... that is wholly INACCURATE. That is a report directly from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, with ASSISTANCE from other sources. Mislabeling data that goes against your inaccurate statements, does not negate ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Well ... actually, yes. They are right there in the report. And I just broke out another three and provide. Btw, while I would agree with your observation on rape states and their inaccuracy, the ratio differential reported is still consider, the ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
ps. Because it occurred to me that most won't want to cull through the massive UNODC report, some other random violent and major crime related stats summaries ... all listed as XX.X per 100,000 pop. Robberies: Colombia - 61.7 Ecuador - ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
OsageArcher, I just about already conceded that in my opening comment, when presenting the original data. Here is a link to the comprehensive UNODC report, clearly refuting anyone's position of Colombia's crime dominance over Ecuador. ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
I never said the car bomb was ... "nothing". That would be both silly and irresponsible. It is the even worse hyperbole that comes after that statement which is what I accurately referenced and you distorted. No! Car ... bombs ... NEVER ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
I would offer, instead, that this is not borne out by the statistical data at all. It wasn't borne out by the data I provided yesterday, at all. In fact, only in one crime category does Colombia clearly present itself as more violent -- ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
BigBrad to the point, I think your position glosses over a period of Ecuadorian history, dating from 1845-1925 that was rather violent and certainly more extensive than Colombia's largely 30 years of violence. However, if you want to argue that ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
OsageArcher, actually as you already accurately state, Colombia's era of violence really extends to 1948 and after. The only place that 1948 would be considered long ago history is in the USA, where what happened last month takes on historical ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
I’m rather astonished by that comment. Thinking there’s a semblance between some military coups, some of which were bloodless to the Colombian conflict. A conflict that has left more than 220,000 dead, most of whom were civilians which ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
For the purposes of the broader points I am making, which mostly embody sentiment, culturally consistent traits and government bureaucracy, I would say my reference is to literally all cities in Ecuador, especially on a comparative model basis to ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Ok, but quick replies to each topic separatly, ccmedia. I will start, by basically pointing out that I am not making a historical context argument, for or against, the Ecuadorian economy. Though that might be a lively debate, given accurate comments ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Hey, Lebowski ... I assure you that if you have 3 homes in your vicinity properly permitted in Guayaquil, that is not just progress ... it is an actual recorded miracle in the making. Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
Fiege 1224, Yeah ... crime down dramatically from a decade ago. Lol, smh ... folks still talk about Colombia like it is still the wild west days of Pablo. Dude has been buried for almost 30 years, now. As for climate, someone else already addressed ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
This reminds me of a member (cowboy something) who believed there was some kind of conspiracy that prevented him from obtaining residency. :D In Ecuador, we (individual expats) are nothing but a mere number on paperwork , a mere formality. So, ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
I could elaborate, but then I'd have to kill all of you ... lol. Our consulting services is part of what we get paid for, but in short, it involves the right type of corporate structure and one has to be willing to surrender a bit of control, or ... Read More
How has Ecuador been improving? by vsimple
As an expat, one of the things that I look for when living in a country is the direction that it’s going. Simply put, is it becoming better or worse. Living in Ecuador, I can say that things for the most part have been improving and below is a ...
Is Ecuador becoming better or worse? To some that means ... this thing ... or that has improved. I am going to offer a different perspective. When I first moved to Ecuador (no longer live there), it was with eyes wide open. I had done business in ... Read More
Why or Why Not Ecuador? by vsimple
Members who have been reading this forum know there is a lot of subjective information being shared. This is perfectly normal because we all have different viewpoints, and it’s great to share opinions. This thread is to share why Ecuador is ...
Thank you to the OP for this thought provoking thread, It is appreciated. Rather than offer "a position", I will simply suggest that maybe first questions should be ... "What am I looking for in a home/business overseas? Followed by, ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
Lol ... short version? Strong US$ vs. weak Colombian Peso (COP) -- near all time lows for the COP vs. the US$ -- means real estate bargains galore, if you know where to shop in Colombia. Stable government. Diverse economy. More of everything than ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
Well, earthquakes are indigenous to Ecuador ... all of Ecuador. Nothing special about the coast. Actually, the most devastating and most casualty causing earthquakes have been in Ecuador's interior, not the coast. Also, there is a stark ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
Attorneys there are quoting 181 days as a safety zone "couple of days". Either way, an extra 2 days doesn't change that NFLFAN's post accurately pointed out one of the few flaws to living in Colombia. However, if you structure your ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
To NHLFAN and a comment on one of his observations. Comment first. NHLFAN is correct, spend 181 days or more in Colombia and income is taxable. One of the things my firm does is create LEGAL vehicles to overcome this challenge. Still, doesn't ... Read More
Coast location recommendation by Sibylleanne
I am Belgian, and I will be retired in about a year and I am planning to spend 2-3 months in Ecuador end of 2019, Olón, Puerto Lopez, Crucita or San Clemente. My intention is to retire there if things go on well. However, I am a single woman, ...
Sibylle Anne, What cccmedia said. For example, Olón/Montañita get lots of rain. Hence the lush/tropical feel. Tonsupa/Atacames was suggested as an option, but, again, lots of rain and the highest per capita crime Province in all of ... Read More
nicest beach community with lots of cheap rentals by gregnisbet
I am wondering, besides Salinas, what beach community would you recommend an ex pat to move to that has a good selection of cheap rentals? Salinas sounds too cloudy too many months, so what would be your 2nd choice for a person who loves the beach ...
Having lived in Salinas for almost 8 years, I can tell you that the cloud cover issues is over-dramatized. It is not complete cloud cover, like London. It does not run 6 months unabated. And I should mention that similar occurs at varying times ... Read More
property lawyer in Santa Marta by frpeter
We are looking to buy property in Santa Marta, and we are traveling there soon, but we would like to find a good, honest, reliable property lawyer there to help us through the process. My wife and I speak Spanish, so we don't need a bilingual ...
canoebum, just as an FYI, as someone active in the real estate market of both cities, HUGE price difference for comparable property, when you compare Cartagena and Santa Marta. By way of full disclosure, I am a real estate investment consultant, ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador by DanteNXS
Hello, I know my title is dependent on one's personal taste and experience, so let me break it down a little more. I am looking for a place to retire that is not in a big city, but not totally isolated either. A place where the people are ...
Dante, I am a realist. If I take into account ALL your desired qualifications, I would have to say no place in Ecuador meets your criteria, unless you are comfortable with cities of approximately 2 million people, as not being "too big". ... Read More
Trying to set an itinerary for a coastal exploratory trip by heyjude71
I've been an expat but not in Ecuador - yet. I know what I'm looking for but not where to find it. A small coastal town/village/neighborhood where I can live - with a water view - cheaply (on small fixed senior budget) - and safely for ...
The advice offered by Susan, at least in terms of target communities, is likely ideal as a cross-section for you. Yes, bus service now exists along the coast, thanks largely to the road construction initiatives by the previous President, Correa. ... Read More
Ballenita and Punta Blanca by Denham2
Hello everyone, Me and my wife are looking to buy around Punta Blanca or Ballenita for the dryness and the heat in the period between December and may. I would love to get your experiences about these two areas. Looking for a secure area with ...
I give both Punta Blanca and Ballenita high ratings for livability and long-term investment value, relative to the broader Ecuador market. There are a few caveats. You might not notice as much high-season, but in the off-season, both can feel a bit ... Read More
property lawyer in Santa Marta by frpeter
We are looking to buy property in Santa Marta, and we are traveling there soon, but we would like to find a good, honest, reliable property lawyer there to help us through the process. My wife and I speak Spanish, so we don't need a bilingual ...
cccmedia, Precisely. Besides, even with 35 years in the field, having discovered likely most legal nuances on a global scale, my forte is the real estate product, within an investment structure. Not the technical legalese, or always keeping up with ... Read More
property lawyer in Santa Marta by frpeter
We are looking to buy property in Santa Marta, and we are traveling there soon, but we would like to find a good, honest, reliable property lawyer there to help us through the process. My wife and I speak Spanish, so we don't need a bilingual ...
Salazar Pardo & Jaramillo Abogados Address: Calle 54 A 5 - 19 Bogotá D.C. Cundinamarca Colombia Telephone: +571 3104877 Fax: +571 310 2606 http://www.spjlaw.com Comment: While HQ is in Bogotá, they have a presence in Santa Marta, as ... Read More
property lawyer in Santa Marta by frpeter
We are looking to buy property in Santa Marta, and we are traveling there soon, but we would like to find a good, honest, reliable property lawyer there to help us through the process. My wife and I speak Spanish, so we don't need a bilingual ...
I have to say I fully concur with cccmedia. I have lived in Ecuador for 8 years, now live in Colombia for 2 years, and have a business history with both that spans 30 years. Ironically, that business history is in the real estate investment ... Read More
Investment Visa (securities) into an Investment Visa (real estate) by Paternostro18
Hi-Ya, Has anyone out there done this? I am a bit nervous that I might not find a home to purchase before my paperwork (like federal BG check) expires. Therefore I was wondering if I decide to apply for an investment visa with Ecuadorian securities ...
You can make the switch, but ... a VERY important "but" ... there can be no lapse time in between, so timing is critical and the use of a knowledgeable attorney essential. If a gap exists, then you could be in technical violation of your ... Read More
Real estate market in Colombia by unleashedsoul99
Hello I am planning to move to Colombia and maybe later buy a flat/house/land there. I know that the Colombian economy is doing good and the prices of real estate have been going up a lot in the last 5 or 10 years or something and that Colombia ...
Cartagena has many real estate submarkets. The old historic district center is overvalued, because of simple supply and demand factors, combined with the difficulty of accommodating that demand with new construction in a historic area. A typical ... Read More
Overseas Real Estate: Is It the "Smartest, Sexiest" Investment Today? by cccmedia
Investing in overseas real estate is the "smartest and sexiest" investment one can make right now, according to a mass-email sent out today by overseas-investment writer Kathleen Peddicord, linking to a long marketing letter by her ...
There is no "one" real estate investment strategy or "one" likely return rate. Each should be tailor made to the specific client. That is why working with a real estate investment consultant (I am one), rather than a "run of ... Read More
My name is Angel and I am 44 years old by Angel2018
Hello, My name is Angel and I am 44 years old. I plan to move to Ecuador in a couple of years. I am still working on convincing my husband that it is a good idea :) My son is 2 years away from obtaining a BA of Accounting, and says he may want to ...
Angel, Short answer is "fairly difficult". Mid-range answer is "depends on where you exactly wind up settling. Best answer is: "contact Deloitte, as they have the best presence here". Better to have a job in hand prior, ... Read More
Moving to Ecuador !! by vpbuzz
A Big hello to all the Ecuadorian friends on this forum. Let me start by apologizing if the same question has been asked on this forum a multiple times. I will try to be more precise and would appreciate specific answers. I'm a professional in ...
I appreciate the question and request for clarity. As most that have read my posts over the years know, I will respond to just about anything...sometimes incessantly. The one area I don't tread is legal advice. Hence, my suggestion that folks ... Read More
article - Will Ecuador turn into Latin America’s Greece? by gardener1
From the Economist - [b]Scraping the barrel Will Ecuador turn into Latin America’s Greece?[/b] Aug 1st 2015 http://www.economist.com/news/americas/21660140-will-ecuador-turn-latin-americas-greece-scraping-barrel
Would you be so kind as to elaborate, Hector?Sure...I mean an in depth answer is way beyond the scope of a forum environment. Ecuador's GDP to debt ratio is nowhere near what is found in Greece. Ecuador mostly funds social workfare and ... Read More
High-Speed Broadband Internet - Salinas by HGQ2112
It took me almost 1 year to analyze all the options - and there are more than you can imagine - through a constantly changing landscape of Internet services. It took me almost 90 days to actually get the service installed from inception of the ...
1) Extremely high prices, reduced somewhat, for same source fibre optic service. Still exorbitant, just less so. 2) NetLife service introduced into region, which is a midway point between true fibre optic coverage and the previous snail speed of ... Read More
High-Speed Broadband Internet - Salinas by HGQ2112
It took me almost 1 year to analyze all the options - and there are more than you can imagine - through a constantly changing landscape of Internet services. It took me almost 90 days to actually get the service installed from inception of the ...
Hello runawayfromwinter, Was here in 2011...still going strong in 2015...be here in 2020...lol. The key question is what's your budget? Do you need oceanfront or ocean view? Hector Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
I am a big fan of the north coast of Ecuador, from a perspective of real estate investment (I am a real estate investment consultant) or from the standpoint of starting your own business, etc. Basically, financial reasons, or just a beautiful place ... Read More
International Livings seminar, Worth it? by Txsbigfoot
We are planning to retire and move in late spring 2013. Been reading about the fast track conference in Quito sponsored by International Living. Cost 850, flight from Houston 1000, Hotel for 4 nights 400. I am trying to justify this trip for the ...
Quite a few possible scenarios. Not really sure any of them will be particularly pleasant. Would say as of now both Europe and the U.S. are trying to go more the route of financial repression. Seldom heard term, but not a new concept.Exactly. ... Read More
International Livings seminar, Worth it? by Txsbigfoot
We are planning to retire and move in late spring 2013. Been reading about the fast track conference in Quito sponsored by International Living. Cost 850, flight from Houston 1000, Hotel for 4 nights 400. I am trying to justify this trip for the ...
Quoted: "Am pretty well hedged, and not really concerned what happens with the U.S. to be perfectly blunt. Whatever happens will have a minimal impact on me." Amen, to that. Same boat. However, candidly, the impending USA implosion will ... Read More