Exploring the Contrasts: Life in the United States vs. Ecuador
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- Опубликовано: 15 мар 2024
- Exploring the Contrasts: Life in the United States vs. Ecuador
In this video, I delve into the striking disparities between life in the United States and my experiences living in Ecuador. As I prepare to return to Ecuador after spending time in the US, I reflect on various aspects of life in both countries:
- Environmental Differences: From the serene tranquility of living on a golf course in the US to the bustling noise of urban life in Ecuador, I discuss how surroundings impact daily life.
- Cost of Living: I explore the stark contrasts in the cost of living, from groceries and gas prices to healthcare expenses, shedding light on the financial considerations of each location.
- Cultural Experiences: Sharing anecdotes of encounters with locals and expats, I highlight the diverse cultural landscapes and interpersonal dynamics unique to each country.
- Challenges and Gratitude: Through personal stories and observations, I touch on the challenges faced by individuals, including seniors struggling with economic hardships, and express gratitude for supportive communities.
Join me as I navigate the complexities of life in two distinct countries, offering insights and perspectives on the joys, struggles, and lessons learned along the way.
#LifeAbroad
#CulturalContrasts
#CostOfLiving
Links:
Facebook - Manta and Manabi Expats and Amigos - / 323275021650751
My Channel Video Index - docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
My Google Docs document of useful information
docs.google.com/document/d/1A...
Document Links
My Checklist for migration - docs.google.com/document/d/1U...
Remember this folks.
A country might look good on paper, or on a RUclips video, but what about the “Chemistry” between you, the individual and the country and culture as a whole?
This is something we can’t know in advance. We can only make our move, dive in and test the waters…….and see how it goes.
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The views expressed in this video are in no way intended to be taken as advice on retirement, migrating to Ecuador, investing, buying insurance, or getting your immigration documentation.
I am not responsible for any decision you make after watching my videos.
I don't give advice and I don't recommend anything unless it is based on my own personal, verifiable experience.
I want to be sure that the information I provide is accurate information and I don't want people to make a poor choice based on anything I say.
If one person comes here based on my influence and doesn't like it at all, then has to return to start all over again, I have failed.
Don, I don't think things will ever be the same in the USA again. Too much drama, hate, division, etc. I hate it. I want to go home sometimes.. I miss my people. I do also love living here in Mexico. I feel peaceful here. BTW. They have skinny pop here. You should come for 6 months, then apply for your Reg program while it's still on the table.
May I ask where exactly are you in Mexico, and ballpark figure of your monthly cost of living?
I'm thinking very seriously about doing just that. But I just don't know where I would go, other than mayby Queratero (sp?). If I came to where you are, we could do some videos about it.
@@DonShaderThat would be awesome! Queretaro is only 2.5 hours from me. I Understand that it’s popular affordable in a great city. Mexico is so huge that you have so many choices. Let me know how I can help to get you down here. What have you got to lose?
@@paulbeaudoin3669 Hello there. I’m am near Mexico City in the mountain range, but in a non tourist/expat area. I started out a couple of years ago living in Quintana Roo. Puerto Morelos and Playa Del Carmen. it’s a great place to live if you’re not sharp with your Spanish skills and love having an Expat community. I grew tired of the outrageous electric bills for air con and living forever in a tourist destination is not my thing. I can tell you that my personal cost-of-living is better than USA, but everyone is different depending on what lifestyle you prefer. I live like a local, mostly and do not own a car. I buy most of my food and household items from the Mercados, and cook most all of my meals at home. I don’t go out to bars, clubs but I do love shopping, taking the bus or colectivos to nearby, magical towns, weekend trips, hiking and exploring. I’m taking Spanish lessons, it’s a must in non tourist areas if you want to have a quality of life and actually save some money. Right now I’m purchasing household things, furniture and appliances so it’s hard to tell anyone what my budget is because of my personal situation. I’m also saving for my retirement, emergencies and purchasing home so my budget is strict due to that. I’m a single woman supporting myself with my small online business. I highly recommend the website numbeo.com . You can plug in cost comparisons between cities. ❤ Best wishes.
@@DonShader- Careful, no insurance in Mexico will cover pre-existing conditions.
Good to see you back! The USA is still a great place, the worry by many is that it is declining. Go to LA, SF, NY, etc.. Its scary! And yes, it is very expensive here.
Thank you for speaking good about USA. Everyone seems to speak negative and trash talk. This country has declined terribly for the past few years. This government definitely needs to get their sh!t together. I want my USA 🇺🇸 back. I have considered moving to Ecuador, my family is from Manabi, just weighing the pros and cons. I love Manta. Hope the situation in Ecuador gets better soon. The world going through many changes, some more than others.
Don! Great to see you! So good to see you doing well and healthy. We were starting to worry. Glad to hear of your love for Ecuador and willingness to live there is undiminished, and you plan to return. As always, we look forward to watching your journey and hearing your insights and wisdom. Thank you for keeping us posted and for your willingness to share.
Thank you for being an excellent person Don what you did for your friend helping him out, in time of need is beautiful.
Great update brother! Hope you enjoy the time over there and it’ll be great to hang when you come back 💯
Love your Chanel can’t wait to be in Cuenca soon
I was just looking to see if you put out a recent video just a couple of hours ago and here you are. Nice to see you.
Thank you for making this video and also making me smile as you talked about hot fudge sundaes one moment and a little later about the wonderful Ecuadorian chocolate. Each place has its good and its bad. Unlike some people you know how to find some of the best in both cultures. May your friendships in both worlds continue to help you thrive and i look forward to your observations after retreturning to Manta!
Thanks for the update, Don! It's always good to hear from you.
Thanks for listening
Good to see you, Don! Be well.
Nice to hear a word from you. Kind of you to help you friend. Good heart. Safe journey when you return.
My girlfriend always tells me that I'm one step closer to heaven.
Thank you for being so kind, we need more people like you.
Greetings from Canada, Great video, thank you Don.
Great to hear you Don, nice video as allways.
Good to see you again, great video
Don, it is so nice to hear from you. We could feel Ecuador is important to you! And you are missing your entourage including your GF. Hang on there, you're the best!! From a faithful listener.. hasta luego
Three weeks of not posting was too long , Don. Thankfully, you are doing fine so there was no need to worry. Abrazos and keep safe. - BTW, we are doing fine in Panamá.
Good to hear your voice, Don.
Thanks for the video. Looking forward to hearing your next.
@Don Shader glad you re ok..Hope you ll be back in Ecuador..I just celebrated my 4 yr anniversary in Cuenca ..God bless you
Good to hear from you my friend. Nice to see you are OK in AZ. One day I'm going to go to Winslow, and stand on the corner, looking for a flat bed Ford... LOL
Great to see you and get an update, Don. (I wish I had double-paned windows for some people I know. ) :)
Thanks for the update Don.
Any time
Don, I love you for your honest talk about Ecquador, totally use ful and true talk.😅😅
Good to hear from you again. Be careful on your motorcycle. 😎
I sold the MC. I ended up not liking it and got rid of it quickly.
another good video for us!
Great video Don,! Yiu are right about cooperate greed. Ecuador was our first choice but we decided on Chaing Mai and we arw very happy, especially with the medical.
Great video, Donnie. I’ve always known you were a big softie and that your bark was worse than your bite. 😂
Your compassion towards the struggling expat was a very moving story.
I’m coming out west mid-April and would love to see you if you’re still there. I know, however, you’re missing your sweetie and ready to get back so no worries if we can’t meetup. Take care young man.❤
I'm leaving in three weeks. You can always call on whatsapp, ya'know.
Thanks so much dear Don.
Hurry up, pack your bags and, go back to your girlfriend and Ecuador..
I agree with someone else here who wrote the US will never be the same again...coming from the oldest colonial and, being able/forced to see - from a distance - the way the place and the people have now been completely destroyed, makes my heart cry and, I will never ever move back to such a place...
I know these western countries all look so nice - on the surface - but we all know by now, they are being destroyed completely and, from the inside..I will never ever deal with this again when I can leave in just under 2 years..the term 'wjen enough is enough" just flipped over and became a thing that no longer matters O me and, I know Americans thinking the same about the US...met some lovely Americans in Morocco a couple of years ago and, we agreed, we are the ones no.longer welcome in our own countries....we were all welcome in lovely Morocco..
And yes, I'm sure/I know Ecuador is not perfect...but it's a country and, the Ecuadorians are lovely...
If I am to die poor, I'd definitely prefer Ecuador to Europe at all times..hence, travel back to the woman you love dear Don..take care 💓
hi don i just wanted to say i enjoy your channel
Oh Don, thought you’d already gone back. Whatever you decide, hope you are happy either way. It’s tough when your heart is split between two countries and you have to say bye to one.
Yes, it's going to be a miserable day when I have to leave here.
God bless you Don 🕊️🙏🏻
Missed you Senor Don
I didn't think you would stay here in the USA. -- INFLATION is ridiculous here in the US !!! -- Many are leaving and/or preparing to leave. The senior situation is absurd for the richest country on earth. Homeless in the streets @ 70 & 80 years old is unforgivable - cause the rent doubled when the lease expired ? -- GREED HERE - GOES BEYOND - 'CORPORATE' !!! - - - Has me about ready to go to the PHILIPPINES - where a place can be had for up to 70% less than the average US cost of living. English is widely spoken and cheap rent can be had. Beats the streets of Biden's America in my view. Affordable housing has dried up with millions of illegals helping the shortage ? Not looking good for the near future here - in my opinion at least. --- All the best Don.
Thanks for the update, Don. I’m been concerned about you. But, it looks like you are doing great in Mesa (at least until it’s gets up to 120 F) 👍🏾 😂
hey Don. LIving in Awhatukee for now but will expat to EC next spring.
Hi Don. You nailed it... corporate greed is driving inflation. Many of the problems in the US are preventable. Most are policy decisions by our government. It will get worse before it gets better. Good day.
I bought double pane windows for my place in Quito. Would never go without them!
Do they work ?
@@Coolman1985 wonderfully
You don't loan money, you gift money. I never expect it back and I often don't get it back. As long as you approach it that way you won't be disappointed.
3:50 Not to forget roosters !! Even in Manta. Depending on where you stay.
Hey Julie. I have chickens and roosters(2) . I love the sound. I'll get rid of chickens and roosters when I move to EC. I'll miss them something terrible. Plus the pastured eggs.
Some people make more than one move after retirement. Try to visit Panama to see if you will like it. I never visit Ecuador, I can't compare the beauty between these two countries, but Panama is a great place for retirees.
A second place would be Merida, Mexico. I know for sure you will like it. It's beautiful and safe. The only thing there is the income requirement that is really high.
Take it easy during this time of changes.
I would not recommend you the DR.
What is the current income requirement for Mexico?
Great advice, Don. The US has some amazing places, people and benefits. But, the cost of living is really high and health care is very expensive. And lets not talk about the politics in the US....
thats a nice patio!
I agree with controlling corporate greed, no doubt,
Nice to see you again Don, was getting a bit concerned that you might not be well. Glad you are doing great. Tell Stella she's a saint for putting up with a fellow curmudgeon.
Exploiting generosity is everywhere, even here in the US. you know when you can't do it 1 month, and they disappear, they were using you, or, if they immediately say your selfish. Nope, you're not. I had to tell a family member, yes, I can afford to buy your groceries, but then, I won't be able to afford my groceries. And, I also knew that they'd never loan me a dime for anything, even if they'd won the lottery. And in South America, it's never a really loan, it's a gift.
I completely agree. Thanks for your feedback Robert.
I'm with you don, ecuador is nice but it has changed a lot in the recent years, would def not say for the better, Usa has its problems but its still better than most countries
Corporate greed isn't driving inflation , it's government spending. They keep printing money like there's no tomorrow. Government debt increases by $1T every 90 days. Just try to wrap your heads around that
Sorry but I don't agree with you.
Hey Don. Couple questions regarding going to , going back to EC: How do you haul back your cash. Everyone says bring small bills. $5's. $1's. Thats a wad!!! And: where did you buy your mace ? Is it easy to buy ? (the simple thingsL any other advice ?) I'm single and will be walking around alone.
Keep your money stateside and use ATMs. When I initially went to EC, I carried a couple thousand dollars in 20s, 10s, 5s, and 1s. Do NOT take any hundred dollar or fifty dollar bills. In retrospect, taking 2k was overkill and dangerous.
I carry pepper spray, it was given to me by a retired cop. You can buy it in EC but I don't know how good it is. I've never had to use mine but I did show it once and I don't know that it helped. Your best defense if to stay in safe areas, don't give reason for being robbed, don't flash your wealth and dress like a local. Also, learn dome Spanish.
@@DonShader ATM's give $20.'s. Everyone says you cant get change for a $20. fromb a vendor, etc.
@@BPe-ie9je Cash management is a major problem in EC and you have to get creative. Most major outlets have change but where people suffer the most is from Taxis. It's always best to ask the driver if they have change before even getting in the car.
o i love coffee...it is better there WOW!
You don’t miss the car & store alarms 24/7?
We're in Cuenca. These are the one thing we just do not get! No one seems to ever respond so I have no clue what good they do. And certainly have never figured out what sets them off. We even see people sitting in their own car with an alarm going. Goofy! But we're not about to leave. ¡Viva Cuenca!
Someone should teach you that you can make popcorn fresh at home very easily.
Janine whats your favorite way ? make popcorn
I do! I make popcorn at home (in Manta) almost daily. What makes you think I don't know how? But if I could find this stuff in Manta, I would buy it simply because of the convenience and it's just good stuff.
@@DonShader when you make it at home try shaking grated Parmigiana cheese on it. No salt or butter needed. Thats the bomb!
@@janina8559Alrighty then, I'll try that. Thanks for the tip.
I´m afraid I have to agree with you about enjoying the peace and quiet, because it´s non-existent here in Cuenca. Not just normal city noises, but the morons shooting off aerial bombs, a million dogs barking, excessively loud music for every single event, even a frickin´medical clinic. Good grief. But Ecuador is expensive is so many ways. Just try to buy anything of decent quality here and not pay a fortune for it. Most of what you buy here is high priced but very poor quality.
I'm convinced there is NO place to live in SA that offers peace and quiet.
How is the Santa Rosa area ? Appreciate your topics, thank you Don
I'm not familiar with the Santa Rosa area you speak of. Sorry.
There are many countries on the world. Not just the US and Ecuador
Wow! Really?
the USA is bad the borders are open and we cant take care of our own Veterans or homeless and health care......sir it is not started yet the problems honest. i want some of that popcorn!
You want to know something I never thought I'd miss from the USA but I do? Grocery store pre-made submarine sandwiches wrapped in Saran Wrap.
Yes, me too. I miss a LOT of grocery options that we don't have in EC.
Hi Don. It looks like Noboa just screwed up royally by arresting Jorge Glass in the Mexican embassy in violation of international law. I wonder what the urgency was. There was no way Glass would get away anyway.....
I could care less, why would anybody else?
@@DonShaderIt will have implications for Ecuador's stability.
@@dovygoodguy1296 So? EC has never had stability and never will. It's going to take longer than my lifespan to see any improvement here.
@@DonShader Yes, but it's been relatively good which is why it has drawn so many expats.
@@dovygoodguy1296 that are leaving now.
Can you do a video on your costs of living in AZ now?
I will when I get back
Hey Don, maybe you could make a video about how to buy a car in Ecuador.
I did. Have you ever checked out my Video index? The link to it is in the description. I did two videos on my car.
I feel ya...it's none of anyone's business the specifics of your life. No one asked for my advice but...I was surprised when you spoke about specifics in your other videos, that I've watched as of finding your channel, this afternoon lol.
I live in mexico and the noise is incredibly off-putting . Those who bitch about this viewpoint are usually jealous locals who wish they were able to work remotely in another country (and would if they could) and fellow expats who are in permanent apology mode for coming from a developed economy. Anyways, I avoid that crap by living in a gated community and when wknd residents flow in I go in the opposite direction.
How do seniors live with social security and medicare,+ subside insurance.
We live in another country
It requires planning years in advance. I live in Manhattan, things are not cheap here. It took some time to find a rent-regulated apartment in a great neighborhood, but it was worth it. My rent is less than what people pay in maintenance fees. If you are over 62 and have less than $50k/year income, you can get rent-freeze from the state government, so your rent doesn’t go up. I have Trader Joe’s 2 blocks for me, so most of my groceries are (semi)reasonably priced. In the city you don’t need a car - you can get anywhere by bus or subway. My Obamacare insurance is fully subsidized so I pay no premiums and have no deductibles. There is a lot you can do if you plan ahead. I am not rich, but lack nothing. Of course, I never had expectations of my retirement consisting of summers in Paris and winters on a cruise ship.
What about your apartment in Manta?
What about it? I still have it unless there's been a major earthquake I don't know about.
uhh ohh Don has a soft spot- not so grumpy...lol....stay grounded
shhhhhhhh, don't tell anyone.
If you have a car in Ecuador, then why choose to live in Manta? I would think you could live in someplace like Santa Marianita and have all of the amenities and conveniences of Manta such as shopping and medical facilities. That's my plan in the not so distant future. My wife and I stayed at the Wyndham Manta Sail Plaza Hotel and the noise we experienced from the discos, as well as from cars with stereos blasting, etc., told me stay away from Manta for my home. IDK how you can stand living there, but you've obviously got your reasons.
Oh boy here we go.
There isn't enough money in the world to make me live in Santa Marianita. I live in a relatively quiet neighborhood, especially compared to SM and Barbasquile.
I don't plan to stay in Manta, at least not for the long run but when I do leave Manta, I'll be leaving Ecuador completely.
@@DonShader It sounds like SM is noisy too, which I wasn't aware of. We'd only live there for a year or so until our home is built a little further south along the beach in San Lorenzo, where I expect the ocean to be the biggest source of noise.
@@GR-ju4db It definitely is noisy. Too many bars on the beach and not close enough to health care either.
VA health care. You can own firearms. You have a usa background The price of things here will never go down. We wait for the next move on the dollar
I love Lesser Evil popcorn 🍿💯 organic, nonGMO, delicious avocado oil... Has a Big Buddha on the package. Next to the Skinny Pop and has no political affiliation.😂
Don, the cost of living is much higher in the U.S. You mention that is the reason why you live in Ecuador.. My question to you is, do you know the average lifespan of a male in the U.S? I think it's about 78.. With this in mind, why would you care what the cost of living is in the U.S.? You can't take your money with you when you're 6 ft under can you?
What money?
While the average lifespan of a male in the U.S. may indeed be around 78 years, several factors influence one's decisions beyond life expectancy. The cost of living in the U.S. is undeniably high, affecting seniors who must juggle expenses like rent, healthcare, utilities, and food. Moving to Ecuador wasn't solely driven by financial concerns, but rather a holistic consideration of quality of life. The inflated costs of groceries and services in the U.S. further strain fixed incomes. Despite statistical averages, personal circumstances and preferences shape our choices. Ensuring financial stability and a comfortable standard of living is a priority, regardless of life expectancy.
@@DonShader This is true.. If you're going to stay in Ecuador for a total holistic experience and thrive during retirement, great! It took me years to find a retirement spot for me and it wasn't based solely on cost. I have lived in the U.S. for a few decades, but never really enjoyed it.. Thus, I am moving to a place where I can assimilate and become part of society.. My goal was to absolutely not live somewhere isolated from local society as an expat..
Damn 2:37
Trump has the answers...good to see you don
I’m in Mexico 2 years...Trump isn’t the answer...believe me
Garden
What about, instead of Ecuador, go to Argentina?
It's certainly in my radar.
Really really enjoyed this vid Don. As usual, you get to he critical points. Candid af. I'll send you an email.
There is no place on earth that is better than USA!
There is a cost associated with opportunities, convenience and infrastructure that are enjoyed in USA. God bless America!
However, try Morocco because it is away safer than South America and many other countries and away cheaper. But try to stay away from big cities and crowded areas.
Good luck for you!
You still got property in Mesa?
No. That was my big mistake in all this, selling my condo.
Would you please speak to the potential double taxation an expat can face? I would think that has to factor into cost of living abroad...paying taxes to US and to Ecuador.
I'm researching it.
Don't, within 12 months or so, your "condo" will be pennies on the dollar. Hang on!
That's my return to US plan.
Don. You're in Bad shape...food in USA has to many calories or what.
Skinny pop not skinny
what?
manta noise is unaceptable
No joke. It's ridiculous and what makes it worse is the beating I take from some people when I complain about it.
It's like "how dare you not liking our noise!"
So, your popcorn is Republican free? Hmmm
If you find popcorn "democrat free" post it! Will sell like pancakes!😂