lebowski888
American expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
318
Contacts
2
About me
American
Lives in Guayaquil, Guayas
Speaks English, intermediate Spanish
Registration: 09 April 2018
Figuring out my expenses for life in Ecuador... by juliet1980
I’ve been trying to figure out approximately how much more affordable would it really be if I were able to move to Ecuador in a few years to live by myself…1.How much does private health insurance cost in Ecuador? In the US it is ...
@juliet1980 1. I pay $36 per month from Ecuasanitas2. Internet, $35 per month for fiber optic. Fiber optic probably won't be available in rural mountains, but Starlink satellite is available now.3. Water & Sanitation $12. Electric $60 (i am in ... Read More
Inflation in Ecuador in 2022 by Mickael
In the various media, inflation in Ecuador is becoming increasingly important. This is becoming a concern for some, with fears of an impact on day-to-day budgeting. Today, how does inflation in Ecuador impact on daily life? Which products and ...
@praxiswebcam0r Getting meat is easy. Getting meat of the quality you demand is going to be tricky. In the farmers markets, vendors tell you what will sell the item. There is no reliable verification system. It's up to the buyer to decide or test if ... Read More
Retirement Visa Income Requirement Triples by cccmedia
Ecuador has tripled its income requirement for a single Expat seeking a Retirement Visa.The requirement had been slashed during The Situation from $800 to $425 per month .. prior to the latest hike.The change has been reported in recent weeks by the ...
It might be possible to create an LLC and/or trust. Then transfer income generating assets into the ownership of the LLC. Then put oneself on the payroll or as benefactor with a paycheck or bank transfer issued and paper trail created. Read More
Guayaquil to Cuenca private van service by harnett95
Hello. My wife and I will be in Cuenca from December 1-5. We are looking for a private van service from Guayaquil to Cuenca and back. We are staying in a hotel right near the airport in Guayaquil. Any recommendations?Regards John
Alianza transportes Cuenca. oficina Guayaquil. Almost walking distance from the airport. Read More
How Many Bank Cards Should an Expat Have on Hand? by cccmedia
How many debit or credit cards should an Expat have?For me, the number is three -- although I almost never carry more than two at a time unless it's a travel day.At the moment, two of my cards are either not operative or are being rendered ...
I use Xoom for small international bank transfers. I use Western Union for international cash transfers. For large international bank transfers, wire transfer done in person during regular banking hours. For purely digital where I don't expect to ... Read More
A Threat at 'Mi Domicilio' by cccmedia
Years ago, I was mugged or robbed on Loja Street and in Parque la Carolina. Tonight, however, was the first time in Ecuador that anyone ever threatened me or my property while inside my condo complex.The threat came from Melba*, a middle-aged ...
That's unusual behavior. Is it possible she had an unrequited crush? Or was setting you up for a con, to fleece or extort? Read More
medications by traveler76
has Ecuador Government removed penalties for buying opioids and taken away the sigma of buying because of chronic pain? It would be nice to live somewhere that I could retire too and be treated properly. thanks
I have occasional need for prescription medications to help with occasional insomnia. My experience in Guayaquil has been simple.I walk down to our neighborhood doctor. His office is attached to his home. My first visit, i explained that my doc ... Read More
Xpats US X military VA disability benefits by cra1948
Hey, glad to join up with fellows living in Ecuador. Diane and I (Carlos) are going through exiting the USA. Didn't thing it's so involved. But we're anxious to get to Qioto then are new lives in Cotacachi. Being an x-military VA ...
@cra1948 Also i pay out of pocket and get private care. A complete blood panel and urinalysis runs about $25. The consult costs me $6 with insurance, $25 without. In Guayaquil Read More
Xpats US X military VA disability benefits by cra1948
Hey, glad to join up with fellows living in Ecuador. Diane and I (Carlos) are going through exiting the USA. Didn't thing it's so involved. But we're anxious to get to Qioto then are new lives in Cotacachi. Being an x-military VA ...
For US Veterans considering the Ecuador expat life, this might help you*Foreign Medical Program*Foreign Medical Program Benefits and Claims Information The Foreign Medical Program is a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care ... Read More
What to Bring to Ecuador by cccmedia
Are you coming to Ecuador to live .. or for an extended stay?Mr. Second Passport has just posted a video to help you avoid scarcity-problems and high prices compared to the USA.What to bring...1. shoes, including Nike-quality athletic ...
@listeningSince 2020, a lot of stores were prompted to put their merchandise online. If you search for "electrodomésticos Ecuador" you will find lots to browse from both major and minor retailers. Read More
How Many Bank Cards Should an Expat Have on Hand? by cccmedia
How many debit or credit cards should an Expat have?For me, the number is three -- although I almost never carry more than two at a time unless it's a travel day.At the moment, two of my cards are either not operative or are being rendered ...
In the name of preventing financial crimes, it seems that banking for US citizens living abroad it getting less free and flexible.In any case i have multiple cards. One always stays at home in a hiding place as a worst case scenario backup. The ... Read More
Cautionary Tales: Shipping Products into Ecuador by cccmedia
On July 15th I arranged for my new U.S.-to-Ecuador shipping company, MyUS, to consolidate three packages and send them to me in one box to Quito. MyUS had been promoting its ability to save money for customers by doing this kind of ...
I imagine this is how many mules start. Let's say you do charge $8 per pound. Let's also say you somehow find an airline that allows you six 50-pound bags on your $350 one way. That would be $2400 gross. Let's say the 6 checked ... Read More
Cost of living in Ecuador in 2022 by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Two years after the start of the pandemic, it is time to take stock of the evolution of the cost of living in Ecuador or more specifically, in the region where you live. The idea is to help people get ready for their expatriation to ...
Cost of groceries 2022, Cuenca.I am impressed by this investigation. 21 common food items were selected among several retailers and the prices compared.The local mercado came out the least expensive, Supermaxi as the most expensive.The table and ... Read More
insurance - can a 65 yr old get medical insurance? What cost? by toniop
Good Morning I have heard stories about older folks having to return to the US and give up their residency in Ecuador because they could not afford to pay for health care in Ecuador. Does anyone know if someone who is older than 65 can get medical ...
You simply need to shop for insurance options and health careThere's the public health option of IESS which is about $80 per month.There's private insurance available from around a dozen private companies. You can choose the coverage and deductible ... Read More
Residency Restrictions for US Registered Sex Offender by My Nomdeplume
So I know that I may receive some hate for this so allow me to explain the full situation up front. When I turned 18 my parents began a very nasty divorce, My mother took my two younger sisters and I chose to stay with my dad. About a ...
Run your background check with the FBI when the time expires. See what remarks are on it.Run your state level background check too. In my experience, migration only goes by what it says on the apostilled paper in front of the agent checking ... Read More
Cautionary Tales: Shipping Products into Ecuador by cccmedia
On July 15th I arranged for my new U.S.-to-Ecuador shipping company, MyUS, to consolidate three packages and send them to me in one box to Quito. MyUS had been promoting its ability to save money for customers by doing this kind of ...
I have used SPUCourier and LaarCourier without issues. keeping the order to about seven pounds to avoid scrutiny issues with customs. In my hands about 12 days after ordering on Amazon for about $7 per pound. I have done this every 90 days or ... Read More
Some Types of Gringos Learn They Must Leave Ecuador by cccmedia
Are you comfortable traveling only on cruise ships or guided tours? Do you get angry when you have to wait longer for something or someone than you had expected? Are you a fussy eater or Vegan? If any of the above are the case, you may be one of ...
I haven't yet done this, but banking issues for expats might be a good reason to buy some cheap desert land in the US. In some states, it might be sufficient to establish a domicile. Many of those desert states have no income tax. Perhaps ... Read More
City in Ecuador among the most violent in the world by Guest7851
Guayaquil Metro area now has the dubious honor of being among the top 50 most violent cities in the world, according to a Mexican ...
That's a bummer. That analysis by the Mexican institute has been a standard for years. I am also surprised by Milwaukee being on the list. The prison riots really pushed the numbers up for 2021. I imagine those counted for a sizable percentage ... Read More
Ecuador Mailbag by cccmedia
From time to time, new members post on our self-introductions thread .. and often have topics for discussion or a request for advice. Such discussion is not generally allowed at the intro's thread per the policy of our home office in the ...
I have sleep apnea treated with CPAP. When I go up to elevations as high as Cuenca or Quito, my apnea gets much worse for 2 or 3 nights and then starts to normalize (based on numbers). I have a BP monitor but haven't used it at high altitude. Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
CCC, I like those ETFs. I bought XYLD last month. I have had QYLD in my portfolio for about 3 years reinvesting the distributions monthly. Boring yet lucrative! I find the risk/reward on these acceptable. Qyld held up well during the March 2020 ... Read More
All you need to know about firearms in Ecuador by 3lckr
You CANNOT legally bring your weapons to Ecuador. Why did I put legally? I wouldn't know any illegal way to do it... Anyway, firearm imports are closed indefinitely by our "beloved" Correa, and import of any other type of weaponry is complicated and ...
Importing is prohibited. Importing or exporting firearms anywhere in the world is generally tricky. However, you might be able to buy certain firearms in Ecuador under limited circumstances. Lasso and others want to expand ownership, but this ... Read More
What are you missing in Ecuador? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in Ecuador, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in Ecuador. Do you miss any aspects of your home culture? ...
I've seen sauerkraut at Coral and Commisarito in Guayaquil Read More
What are you missing in Ecuador? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in Ecuador, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in Ecuador. Do you miss any aspects of your home culture? ...
there are some are imperfect work-arounds that have pros and cons: -- virtual address and mailbox services -- going paperless as often as possible, including workarounds like e-faxes, apps like adobe scan. -- mules -- freight forwarders / cargo ... Read More
Cost of Living by TNVOL1999
Can someone help me and give me a estimate on the cost of living for a single male for a single male who is normal average in his living style 2 bedroom 2 bath Would love to talk to someone about moving to Ecuador
@cccmedia, How do you find personally the overall cost of living in Quito vs. some of the other cities that you've spent time in South America? Read More
If Size Matters, Quito is Number 1
INEC's numbers are reliable. Now for the various expat blogs and Wikipedia to get their data sets and facts updated. Read More
español for Gringos by cccmedia
Let's find out if there's interest in a thread for folks who want to share or expand what they know about the Spanish language. I'm thinking tips, trix, quirks, observations, embarrassing moments, triumphal moments, and other encounters ...
I have enjoyed reading these easily confused word lists over the last few years. It's also something that teachers rarely review with students. Recently I wanted to say "paso a paso" (step by step) but I said "pasa a pasa" ... Read More
Coming Sept 7 by sterlinga5251
I am excited to come and investigate Ecuador as a place to live. I have studied many of the cities and am currently inclined to want the beach (visit the mountains not live there). I am from NC, USA. I plan to fly to Ecuador Sept. 7th. I will ...
I agree with renting here first. The real estate market here is radically different than North America. With the exception of a few hotspots, it is mostly slow. Cash is King. negotiating has a wider range. The majority of sales are For Sale By ... Read More
Cautionary Tales: Shipping Products into Ecuador by cccmedia
On July 15th I arranged for my new U.S.-to-Ecuador shipping company, MyUS, to consolidate three packages and send them to me in one box to Quito. MyUS had been promoting its ability to save money for customers by doing this kind of ...
Yes, exactly. Keeping my order to 7 lbs seems to keep it under the radar. That allows for situations when the retailer underestimates shipping weight. So far that tactic has worked out for me. Read More
Cautionary Tales: Shipping Products into Ecuador by cccmedia
On July 15th I arranged for my new U.S.-to-Ecuador shipping company, MyUS, to consolidate three packages and send them to me in one box to Quito. MyUS had been promoting its ability to save money for customers by doing this kind of ...
There are plenty of legally registered couriers (also known as freight forwarders or consolidators) that specialize in delivery between the US and Ecuador. The cost is about $6 per pound as of 1 August 2021. I have found these shippers to be much ... Read More
Furnished or unfurnished? by kmok1956
How easy and how expensive is it to furnish an apt. in Cuenca? I see great deals on unfurnished apts.
It is about as easy as shopping for furniture and appliances in the US. The only difference in that in some stores you will be expected to negotiate the price of the item and terms of delivery. Cash is king, so ask what the discount is for cash. ... Read More
Rod Will Stay Until He Finds a Better Place Than Ecuador by cccmedia
We welcome new member Rod a/k/a Rodrigo, who was born in Quito and lived in California for 40 years. Now retired, Rod told us in his self-introductory post that he plans to stay here in Ecuador (location not mentioned) "till I find a better ...
I remember when I arrived in London in early summer of 93. The weather was beautiful. It was sunny and warm. Not a bit of rain. After a few more weeks of mostly nice weather, I thought that everyone was exaggerating about the famously miserable ... Read More
Rod Will Stay Until He Finds a Better Place Than Ecuador by cccmedia
We welcome new member Rod a/k/a Rodrigo, who was born in Quito and lived in California for 40 years. Now retired, Rod told us in his self-introductory post that he plans to stay here in Ecuador (location not mentioned) "till I find a better ...
I was just listing comparative factors someone might consider. Cost of living is often the big headline for Ecuador. But there's many other factors an individual might consider and rank. Cost of living is low in Ecuador, compared to North ... Read More
Rod Will Stay Until He Finds a Better Place Than Ecuador by cccmedia
We welcome new member Rod a/k/a Rodrigo, who was born in Quito and lived in California for 40 years. Now retired, Rod told us in his self-introductory post that he plans to stay here in Ecuador (location not mentioned) "till I find a better ...
A better place might have: a lower cost of living, lower crime, less litter, better quality food and drink, more art, purer air, purer water, fairer society, more music, more personal and economic freedom, more equality under the law, more ... Read More
Protect Yourself By Protecting Your Cards and Keys by cccmedia
A potential nightmare for every Expat is losing one or more of his/her cards, especially those issued by a country outside Ecuador. My cards include USA debit cards, my Ecuador savings-account card, a card for exiting/entering my building, my ...
These suggestions are terrific. I follow all of them. I use my laminated copy of cédula all the time. This was something that surprised me about Ecuador, that a copy will suffice in most instances because that isn't the case in the US. I ... Read More
Food in Ecuador healthy? But is it really? by lizzaritimonohi2
My #1 reason for considering Ecuador is due to many, many posts on various forums where folks talk about healthy living, "organic" food and abundance of "clean, healthy produce" and how "fertile Ecuador soil" is. And I ...
Organic food is available. However, it is at a price premium if one buys it labeled that way in a supermarket. It is possible to find organic farmers and buy produce directly from them. Read More
Ecuador's New President 2021 by cccmedia
Sunday, April 11, 2021... The people of Ecuador are choosing their new president in a national election. It's a runoff election and incumbent presidente Moreno is not on the ballot. The authorities say a winner will be posted by 6 p.m. ...
Some interesting points about the reporting and framing by the BBC and others: Arauz was director of Ecudor's central bank. Doesn't that make him a "leftist banker"? He has a Master's in Economics, but has not yet held a job ... Read More
The enormous increase in deaths in 2020 by lebowski888
During the first eleven months of the year, 104,887 people have died in Ecuador (until last Thursday Nov.26) according to data from the Civil Registry. That is, 38,423 more deaths than in 2019. 40,669 more deaths than in 2018. (Roughy 57% higher ...
The difference in information has to do with the sources. In the article i linked, the data comes from death certificates issued by the civil registry. It is all deaths, all causes, during 2020. The data from worldometer comes from covid deaths as ... Read More
Bank Account by 56kathya
Can I open a bank account with my passport for ID?
Yes. I opened accounts with Banco del Austro with a passport. I know other expats who have done this at Banco de Guayaquil Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
There are alternatives to DHL UPS and FedEx. These are logistics / courier / freight forwarder / cargo consolidator businesses. They specialize only in shipping between, say, USA and Ecuador. They are legally registered businesses in both ... Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
I got a replacement card from Schwab delivered to my door in Guayaquil via FedEx in about 7 days in November 2020. Read More
TEFL in Ecuador & cost of living by jfloyd123
Hi all - I am a retired executive living on Social Security Disability Income and a retirement pension in Tucson, AZ. I am divorced, no kids, one pug. I am currently living on about $4000 per month (I make about $1000 a month from part-time jobs ...
Regarding cost of living: Rent is the highest cost. Rent and real estate prices have been falling in general in ecuador,but you will always find some tiny hotspot exceptions. Classical economics explains why: housing oversupply, lower demand. Lots ... Read More
TEFL in Ecuador & cost of living by jfloyd123
Hi all - I am a retired executive living on Social Security Disability Income and a retirement pension in Tucson, AZ. I am divorced, no kids, one pug. I am currently living on about $4000 per month (I make about $1000 a month from part-time jobs ...
My wife recently earned a TESOL certificate online from Arizona State University. I audited the first section with her. I was impressed by the quality. The cost was about $400. I would not bother with TEFL certificates issued by unaccredited ... Read More
The enormous increase in deaths in 2020
During the first eleven months of the year, 104,887 people have died in Ecuador (until last Thursday Nov.26) according to data from the Civil Registry. That is, 38,423 more deaths than in 2019. 40,669 more deaths than in 2018. (Roughy 57% higher ... Read More
Ecuador Real Estate and rental prices drop dramatically in 2020 by lebowski888
The Real Estate and rental markets are slow and cold in Ecuador. Why? There is an oversupply of houses for sale and the demand is diminished and unstable in Ecuador, according to the newspaper El ...
Even in a pandemic, it's doubtful rents have dropped to 20 percent. More likely they dropped by cccmediaGood catch. That's what we get for not double checking a machine translation. Enormous difference Read More
Ecuador Real Estate and rental prices drop dramatically in 2020
The Real Estate and rental markets are slow and cold in Ecuador. Why? There is an oversupply of houses for sale and the demand is diminished and unstable in Ecuador, according to the newspaper El ... Read More
Can you buy Sprite Zero in Ecuador by litlmssunshine
I'm based down near Baños and I've been searching here and in Ambato for Sprite Zero/SinAzucar with no luck at the big S/mkts. I'm heading up to Quito next week anyone know where I can buy it? Can I buy it? Or anything similar like ...
To be honest, I only read the labels on the plastic bottles🙂 Read More
Can you buy Sprite Zero in Ecuador by litlmssunshine
I'm based down near Baños and I've been searching here and in Ambato for Sprite Zero/SinAzucar with no luck at the big S/mkts. I'm heading up to Quito next week anyone know where I can buy it? Can I buy it? Or anything similar like ...
The "regular" sprite and 7up are both sugar free by default in Ecuador. It took me more than a year to realize this, I just one day read the label and saw both were sugar free Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
I will also say, this phenomenon is interesting in reverse. I used to often host Latin American professionals in the US. Many hadn't traveled in the US very often. I learned that most of my clients couldn't understand when I gave an ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
If you rent, your landlord will know the official address. If you rent an Airbnb, the owner will send you the GPS coordinates, Google map link, and if it is urban, then additional directions and possibly an address. Another example is how my ... Read More
Does Google Maps work in Ecuador? by bkiser
It just hit me... this is a tool I use for all my traveling, but have never used it outside the US. It's going to be incredibly useful if it works there.
Yes. Other useful apps are rome2rio (for traveling long distances), moovit (local bus routes in Guayaquil, maybe elsewhere). Uber and Cabify work in Guayaquil and Quito, but is permitted on a city by city basis. Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Example F10. V4. Mz 239. Sauces 8, Guayaquil 090506. This is how I understand it, but I could be wrong: In Guayaquil, f10 is like a house number. V4 (villa 4) is a designation for a small group of homes, like an apartment block or a group of ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
I would suggest specialist couriers serices like SPU Courier, Deblex, Laarbox. They are licenced businesses in Ecuador with warehouses in the US. They tend to be a bit cheaper than DHL or FedEx and thet understand the peculiarities of Ecuadorian ... Read More
Best bank for checking/saving account? by bkiser
Hello, all. I am planning my first trip, and would like to go ahead and start an account with a bank. Would prefer to use a bank that has available ATMs in different locations, if possible, as I plan to do some traveling in country. Also, I ...
If you are coming to Guayaquil, I can recommend a kind bilingual woman who can assist you and facilitate with these kinds of tasks. She is a native of Guayaquil, teaches English and Spanish at the highschool level, and does interpretation and ... Read More
Best bank for checking/saving account? by bkiser
Hello, all. I am planning my first trip, and would like to go ahead and start an account with a bank. Would prefer to use a bank that has available ATMs in different locations, if possible, as I plan to do some traveling in country. Also, I ...
You'll need some paperwork to open an account. And it will be a terrific test of your Spanish. Savings accounts are easier to open in my experience than checking accounts in terms of paperwork burden. Banco de Guayaquil, Banco del Austro, and ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
This is a stellar idea. To take it a step further, bring a camera and notebook and a shopping list of "must haves". I spent many hours in Megamaxi on my exploratory trip, trying to get an idea what foods and household items i wanted and ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Great news. Maybe my wife will finally get the birthday card I sent her from Ohio in 2016! 🤣 Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Occasionally. The only real limits on anything are cell phones and computers (2 each). And alcohol, 2 liters. There might be others but it isn't normal things. The rest is personal. Some expats will max out the limits permitted by the airline, ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
There is plenty of online shopping available here. You just have to order on MercadoLibre, Facebook MarketPlace, or OLX. Amazon just doesn't do business here-- yet. But you can get stuff from there if you can't find what you want locally. ... Read More
Hello from Kentucky, USA! by bkiser
Hello, everyone! I have been a member for probably close to 3 years, but I still feel like a new member, as I don't think I have ever posted before! I have been following Ecuador from afar, in as much detail as possible, over the last 8 or 10 ...
You could tour the coast in a logical way, picking a southern point like say, Playas or Salinas, and work your way northward and stay in each town that interests you for a week or two. It's easy enough to do by bus. Lots of micro-climates on ... Read More
Moving from California to Quito by vynonjon
I am thinking to move to Quito within a year. New condo is in construction near Qui centro. My question is I do have houseful belongings. Anyone used moving company from LA area. If so, Is it ok to bring all my appliances as well as furniture? ...
I sold or donated virtually all my things before coming to Ecuador full time. I moved with just a few suitcases. I thought it would be more fun to start all over and get new stuff. You can easily get global appliance brands like Samsung, LG, ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Ecuador's post office is no longer in operation. totally shut down. https://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2020/05/20/nota/7846971/correos-ecuador-envios-servicio-liquidacion-crisis When people order from Amazon in the US, most Expats and natives ... Read More
How to bring your car to Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Ecuador, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age of ...
I am curious how people go about passing through, overlanders driving the Pan American highway. Or do they avoid Ecuador altogether? Is this an importation of a vehicle, or just ... Read More
Exodus from Ecuador-Real or Imaginary by jwhalen55
Hello Fellow Members, I've heard a number of stories on an Exodus of folks from Ecuador of late and I'm sure it relates to the COVID thing and downstream fallout thereof. In any event, I'm trying to get a feeling for the Expat ...
Wall Street Journal shows Guayaquil in a brighter light: "Ecuador City Beat One of World’s Worst Outbreaks of Covid-19" Guayaquil has largely vanquished the new coronavirus after bodies were left on street corners in a crisis the ... Read More
Pizza Hut in Salinas? by EcBound
Hey everyone, just heard there is a Pizza Hut at El Paseo and another near the San Lorenzo church (used to be a Telepizza) Who owns these? Same person ? Different people? Surprised as franchises not big there. Any info appreciated
Pizza Hut is owned by Yum Brands of Louisville, Kentucky which is: KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, The Habit Burger Grill Wingstreet As far as local franchising rights in Ecuador, I don't know. Read More
Growing pecan, walnut, trees and other nut trees by Chjozie
I want to know if it possible to grow pecans, walnuts and other nut trees here on the coast in Canoa, Ecuador.
I don't know, per se, but I can give you some clues and leads that may answer your questions. some expats on another Ecuador forum were posing similar questions about if particular crops and trees might grow in certain climates in Ecuador. A ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
This is somewhat related to the discussion about food costs and economics, on a more global and macro level, from The Economist: https://www.economist.com/briefing/2020/05/09/the-worlds-food-system-has-so-far-weathered-the-challenge-of-covid-19 Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
my guess is efficiencies and sophistication in the Supply Chain in North America vs. Ecuador is a primary driver of price differences, rather than overheads like labor and property. The US has an extremely sophisticated market distribution system ... Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
In guayaquil it is like MadMax. 80% of the people in my neighborhood are wearing masks, most homemade. Streets are very vacant. most of the stores were well stocked on Monday. Except hand sanitizer and rubbing alcohol. About 10% of the tienditas ... Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
New restrictions of mobility: https://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2020/03/15/nota/7783578/coronavirus-ecuador-nuevas-restricciones-movilidad-pais-partir ...by the way, Ecuador isn't alone in these measures. It has happened elsewhere. Ohio just ... Read More
Medication in Ecuador by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like Ecuador ...
Fybeca, a national pharmacy chain, has a good search tool for medicines. Search for the generic name in Spanish to find out if it is available. Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
moreover https://www.reuters.com/article/health-coronavirus-ecuador-idUSL8N2B70XK Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
So now (Mar 14 2020) the private insurers say they will cover it https://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2020/03/14/nota/7781310/seguros-salud-privados-cubren-gastos-covid-19?device=mobile Read More
Planning a short trip to Ecuador - questions by EveeZee
I am planning a short trip to Ecuador in the near future. I am a procrastinator, so it might take a few months before I actually make up my mind.... I would like to know how does it work with vaccination. What is mandatory and what is advisable if ...
No required vaccinations. However the CDC has a list of recommendations, which I followed and feel safer for it. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/ecuador?s_cid=ncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001#vaccines-and-medicines Read More
Shipping container
I don't know about Salinas, but the big deepwater port close by is Posorja https://www.dpworldposorja.com.ec/en/ Read More
Ecuador's Water Quality 2020
The summary is, according to the article from El Universo, the water might be safe to drink from the tap, by international quality standards in Quito and Guayaquil. Cuenca is expected to be certified in ... Read More
Can I use my fire stick or roku stick in Ecuador? by parrotsrest
Moving to salinas in 5 weeks and started trying to really narrow down what not to bring. I am sure the answer is obvious, but not to this dinosaur😁 Will the typical internet connection be fast enough so buffering will not be prohibitive. ...
Netlife provides their own modems. I am now getting average of 105 Mbps up/down for $55 per month, tax included Read More
Internet
In Guayaquil, we use Netlife, using it for more than a year. Zero downtime except citywide blackouts. We have 100mbps fiber optics for $55 per month. Super fast, we share our connection with my mother in law. Enough bandwidth that I can do video ... Read More
Home Improvement in Ecuador by vsimple
This thread is for members to share information about anything related to home improvement in Ecuador. Recently, I began inquiring about the cost of aluminum blinds. These are called [i]persianas de aluminio[/i] here. Anyhow, the prices I was given ...
a few things I've learned regarding home improvement in Ecuador: Using the wrong term, or the word used in other Spanish speaking places may result in confusion. The maestro or clerk at Disensa or Kywi might not know what you are talking about ... Read More
Secure Banking Options In Loja Ecuador by ecualibrium
Hello friends, first post here. My wife and little one, along with my retiree parents recently visited the Loja/Vilcabamba area and purchased some land to start a new Ecuadorian life on. We will be applying for Investment Visas. My question is: Is ...
You'll need to do due diligence. Ecuador as a country is close to junk bond status. Look at the number of bond defaults over the last 20 years and the history of banking crises. https://tradingeconomics.com/ecuador/rating Fcebook's Ecuador ... Read More
Garbage disposals? by rriiccaarrddoo
When we were down in Ecuador past November we can’t remember if we saw any garbage disposals like they have in the United States where it’s attached to your sink my wife wanted me to buy one here in America and bring it down with us so ...
Poor design plumbing design is right, and very common in anything built before the mid 90s. In our building, the drains were at least sized appropriately. However, our pipes don't have adequate air venting. Leads to frequent back ups and slow ... Read More
Recommendations for best overall coastal city by sayitaintsi
Hi all, Of course, the "where to ____" question is very common but I find that a number of the threads are likely outdated and aged as times, politics, and costs change. So, with that in mind I'm hoping to get some really good feedback ...
The water on the coast has high levels of bacterial and amoebic contamination. This is not only true for Ecuador, but most coastal areas in the tropics around the world. Drinking bottled water or boiling and filtering your own is the safest way to ... 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 ...
2. Weather. The coast of ecuador has a rainy season (December to May) and a dry season (June to November). The rainy season has day and night temperatures 3 to 6 degrees F warmer than the dry season. Microclimates are significant on the coast, so ... 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 ...
6. Manta and Salinas both have expat communities, Manta being larger. 7. Taxis are plentiful, budget $2 to $3 per trip under 8 km. Good quality coach buses go between cities for $5 to $15. Uber works in Guayaquil, Ambato, and Quito but not in ... Read More
Marriage in Ecuador as a foreigner by USluvsEC
So I am looking for an official update for what you need to get married in Ecuador as a US citizen who will marry an Ecuador citizen... the most recent posts I can find are from 2017. Also I have kids, I thought I read somewhere I need to prove I ...
I got married in Guayaquil in May 2019 to a Guayaquileña. I can't express how important it is to follow the instructions exactly. We wasted a lot of time because we confused the paperwork with residency and the paperwork for marriage. ... Read More
Credit Card, Banking and Monthly Rent/Utility Payments in Ecuador by jwhalen55
Happy New Year All, Well, 2020 here we come. Thanks everyone for your inputs over the past weeks in your support of our upcoming exploratory visit and ultimate move later in the year to Ecuador as retired expats. Your inputs/comments have been ...
Banco de Guayaquil, for example, charges $1.50 for a withdrawal, in addition to the fees from your bank. Which is why I use Schwab, ATM fees are reimbursed. Also, having delivered pizza in my early 20s (robbery target) I learned to never carry ... Read More
Retiree Requesting Info on Cities to Live in Ecuador by jwhalen55
Hi Folks, My wife and I are moving to Ecuador in the spring and would like some suggestions on location(s). We are retired. We will be visiting there in March to stay for a month or two and have the following questions... (1) Where should we ...
I would put Manta and Salinas on your list, both on the coast, have hospitals, and are fairly flat. Manta is the larger of the two. There are several hundred apartment listings under $1000 on OLX and MercadoLibre as well Read More
Permanent Residence in Ecuador by Coxhere
I'm married to an Ecuadorian. Does being married to an Ecuadorian make it easier to live permanently in Ecuador?
You can disclose much less money on a Visa de Amparo compared to other visas. I disclosed only the minimum, which I put in a separate account more than a year before I applied. Plus, this account is kept in the USA. Read More
Ecuador Transportation Emergency as Fuel Subsidies End, Talks Fail by cccmedia
October 4, 2019: Ecuador has decided to end fuel subsidies, causing gasoline prices to rise to market levels. The subsidies were eliminated on Thursday after the president announced the change on Tuesday. The national government's talks with ...
As I live in Guayaquil, I can say you are mistaken. Gas here is sold by the gallon. The use of the metric system is somewhat flexible. La Española, a local butcher, sells meat by the pound. Read More
Can I use my fire stick or roku stick in Ecuador? by parrotsrest
Moving to salinas in 5 weeks and started trying to really narrow down what not to bring. I am sure the answer is obvious, but not to this dinosaur😁 Will the typical internet connection be fast enough so buffering will not be prohibitive. ...
Yes, she is now my Ecuadorian wife. Read More
Shipping our stuff over by rriiccaarrddoo
I’m having a hard time getting real answers from different shipping companies. They all have a different answer. We will be shipping 1-40’ container (over sea). Can bring my dewalt battery powered tools? Can I bring 1 atv (four ...
I considered shipping and analyzed the costs. And I did the same for selling my stuff. When I did my personal inventory, I realized I didn't actually have any heirlooms, momentos, antiques, etc. It was a tough decision, but in the end I sold ... Read More
Shipping our stuff over by rriiccaarrddoo
I’m having a hard time getting real answers from different shipping companies. They all have a different answer. We will be shipping 1-40’ container (over sea). Can bring my dewalt battery powered tools? Can I bring 1 atv (four ...
Check MercadoLibre or OLX. DeWalt mitre saw 10" is $234, for example. Just search for DeWalt in the search box, about 1200 other different tools ... Read More
Shipping our stuff over by rriiccaarrddoo
I’m having a hard time getting real answers from different shipping companies. They all have a different answer. We will be shipping 1-40’ container (over sea). Can bring my dewalt battery powered tools? Can I bring 1 atv (four ...
You can get bug spray and spray paint in Ecuador at approximately the same price as USA at supermaxi, megakywi, mi ferrisariato, etc Read More
Building materials
Disensa is the biggest construction material supplier in Ecuador. https://www.disensa.com.ec/ Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
I am writing answers for what I pay: How much do you pay on average for public transportation (bus, subway, train, tram, taxi)? Bus, 30 cents per trip. Taxi $2 to $5, negotiated in Guayaquil. Uber is usually 20% less than taxi for the same ... Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
If I want to be literal with "live like a king" then my lifestyle would be directly financed by the taxpayers of my kingdom. And thus i I would get my monthly payments merely by being born into the royal family, not through a democratic ... Read More
Medical Marijuana by Namaste250
Hi guys. We are both retired and moving to Ecuador in a year. We are going to visit next month for our look-around, with Loja the first stop. Question: I am being treated with sub-lingual cannabis drops for bipolar disorder. I did find (somewhere) ...
I crossposted this in another thread. 17 Sep 2019, ecuador's national assembly approves medicinal cannabis https://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2019/09/17/nota/7523206/cannabis-se-podra-usar-ecuador-uso-medicinal-aprobo-asamblea?device=mobile Read More
Ecuadorian Drug Laws by roybo
Hi! Been trying to find information on what substances are controlled here in Ecuador without any success. Is there a list of controlled substances to find anywhere online? I wouldn't wanna break the law. The traditional San Pedro cactus for ...
Ecuador's national assembly approves medicinal cannabis, 17 Sep 2019 https://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2019/09/17/nota/7523206/cannabis-se-podra-usar-ecuador-uso-medicinal-aprobo-asamblea?device=mobile Read More
Can I use my fire stick or roku stick in Ecuador? by parrotsrest
Moving to salinas in 5 weeks and started trying to really narrow down what not to bring. I am sure the answer is obvious, but not to this dinosaur😁 Will the typical internet connection be fast enough so buffering will not be prohibitive. ...
Netflix is great in Ecuador, but a different selection of programs. Hulu doesn't work without a VPN. my wife and mother-in-law watch a ton of Netflix. Read More
Can I use my fire stick or roku stick in Ecuador? by parrotsrest
Moving to salinas in 5 weeks and started trying to really narrow down what not to bring. I am sure the answer is obvious, but not to this dinosaur😁 Will the typical internet connection be fast enough so buffering will not be prohibitive. ...
My recommendation: get Netlife as your provider, get minimum 30mbps fiber optics. If you have a multifloor home, bring a mesh wifi router system like google wifi (3 router points) Bring Amazon fire stick or Roku. I do this. Our system works ... Read More
90 day visa extention
As of March 2019, The 90 day extension (prórroga) must be applied for in country. Which is when I did mine. I tried to apply for mine early, but the agent told me that isn't the way it works. You apply for it near the expiration date (which ... Read More