ARE PEOPLE REALLY HAPPIER IN THE USA? 🇺🇸
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- Опубликовано: 14 сен 2022
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After a LOOOONG month in the United States and our return home to Ecuador, the contrast between the two countries reminded us why we're so much happier living abroad.
In this video, we share the top 10 reasons why we're happier living in Ecuador, and why our quality of life is so much higher outside the United States.
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I'm Ecuadorian and just came back from my last vacations to Ecuador because next time I go there is gonna be forever. It doesn't make sense to me that every time I go there I come back happier and well fed, then I just spend a few months here in the U.S.A and lose weight and get depressed and sick. My country is considered third world country but how it comes my life is better in almost every aspect than here? I'll be back where the weather is nice and food is affordable. Even with a Bachelor's degree here in the States I'm poorer than in Ecuador. I just started my company and I'll get a remote job so I won't care about money neither be stressed here with my sedentary style of life. Thanks JP and Amelia your videos really helped me to make this decision. Sometimes the U.S propaganda of the American dream blinds people but honestly as a person who lived on both worlds I'd say is better to live there and is not that bad as they wants us to think it is.
Great info and perspective. Thanks for sharing. So ready to get out of the US. Just need to compress more into storage or sell it.
It is a dollar value that helps you to live better where you have came from. Everyone comes to the US to work and make more money because the USA gives opportunities to anyone who wants to work hard.
It is because you are wealthy coming back to Ecuador so of course you are happier but the majority who don't have enough money to live and are working 16 hours a day menial jobs to survive, of course they are not happy. The Happiness Index is looking at overall happiness of the population in the country not just the rich or middle class. LOL Are you blind?
@@cathylake9072 16 hours? Lol What are you talking about? That's illegal everywhere except in some places in Asia and in America if you are an illegal immigrant. Please travel abroad and educate yourself.
@@DavidMartinez-im6ln You were probably always in the upper or middle class in Ecuador so you can not relate to the masses. First off to travel to western countries legally you have to get a visa which is almost impossible with no connections and no money. You are so out of touch with reality.
We left the US nearly 10 months ago for the Czech Republic (Czechia), I'm convinced that Americans don't realized how stressed out they truly are until they leave the US!
You're wrong. I KNOW what stress is and I wish I could snap my fingers and go back to 1993. Things would be so much better.
Very true
Hey Bryson - i am considering the same. May I ask, what is your monthly expenditure like ?
@@sunmand6136 apartment with all utilities, cable, and phone is 11,000 CZK (just over $500) Groceries vary and we don't budget so it runs us about $125/week - that's for two adults and two pets.
@@brysonmacdougal7898Bryson, thanks for replying so quickly! I appreciate it. May I ask , How much do you pay for healthcare ?.
Being born in Ecuador and being super poor with little to no prospect of escaping poverty is EXTREMELY different from retiring to Ecuador with nice cushy retirement packages.
Exactly! There is an a country on earth with more opportunities to make good money than the United States. It’s easy for everyone to see how stress-free their life is in another country, after they made all of their money in the United States for years and years and years.
And now you are rich?
@@hectorangel5408 Having a U.S., Canadian, or European income while living in a considerably-cheaper country IS like being rich. It can also mean that you have more to invest and become even richer.
@blaane15. It's a good point. I'm sure being poor in Ecuador is no picnic.
@@aldrob108 If you're Coast F.I. and prepared, life in the USA doesn't have to be stressful.
I don't worry about making the house payment or keeping the lights on. I don't worry about the car making it another year. I don't worry about retirement. I don't worry about the markets or about losing my job.
Watch some videos by Dave Ramsey, Robert Kiyosaki, and Graham Stephan...to start.
I left the US in 1986 and never regretted a moment. It's much more "shocking" to return, and it only takes a few days before I need to get out and back to the real world.
I'm just so angry at the US culture for instilling the fear of travelling that lasted well into my 60s.
Lovely video. ❤️
where did you move to??
I fled in 83 certain Reagan was going to blow up the world best thing I ever did
Best to stay that way, otherwise, all those beautiful countries of paradise will soon have a major influx, or exodus, of expats hiking up prices that you once enjoyed. Look what’s happening in Tijuana and Mexico City many gentrified neighborhoods have now become impossible to afford for the average Mexican wanting to rent.
I’m convinced that it’s expensive to get out of the US and the media makes it seem so scary elsewhere on purpose. Otherwise citizens would demand a better life!
Being angry at US culture for making you fearful of travel? Sounds like you had some issues you needed to overcome. Provincialism exists throughout the world and in many cultures. It’s not unique to the US.
This video is spot on! The older I get, the more I can't stand living in the US. Started traveling to South America in 2019 and fell in love with it. The people, the culture and the pace of life is so much more enjoyable than here in California. I can't wait to make my permanent move to South America!
We lived in Costa Rica for 5 years during the early 2000's, and had to return to the USA to help our adult sons thru the 2008 Crisis. Now, we long to return to CR, this time permanently !
Yeah but not Venezuela? I meet tons of Brazilians and Mexicans who have left for better lives in Canada or US.
Same here.
California, especially LA, suck.
Love y’all! The USA is indeed the land of paying First-World prices for Third-World service & products.. 🤦
That’s just dumb. Rich people from the rest of the world come to America for medical care and other things. They and you are just factually incorrect. And the reason things are so expensive in America is because we’re subsidizing the rest of the world. Medicine and other things are cheap in the rest of the world because they’re being sold for crazy prices in America so they can be sold cheaply and the rest of the world. Because of our corrupt politicians. America is it the problem capitalism and democracy or not the problem. It’s the fact that they have been captured by corrupt politicians.
💯% specially if you live in the Northeast
@@nedhill1242 When you're done fellating CEO's, maybe go look at the numbers. About 1 million Americans LEAVE the country for medical tourism, far in excess than however many rich foreigners come to the US for hospital treatment. Why would they? Most of Europe has great public and private hospitals that don't bankrupt people.
Moved to Thailand as an elderly widower five years ago. Your comments apply here perfectly. My health has improved and my stress level is approaching zero.
I retired to Thailand 5 years ago as well. I love it here
My goal is to move to Thailand in a couple of years. I’ve heard so many stories of peoples health problems disappearing after moving there. I’m so ready to go live off of a thousand a month and enjoy myself.
I lived in Thailand for several years back in the early 2000s. Fell in love with the people and the culture. July, I finally moved here for good and got my Retirement Visa. I left Los Angeles, and I have no regrets. Every day is amazing!🇺🇸🇹🇭
OMG these are all white men saying this about Asia. Of course you like it! You're treated like a god because all the woman want a western man.
Let me guess you bought a young woman!
I really enjoy your positive videos. We moved to Ecuador in July and are loving it. Like all the multiple places I've lived, there are always trade-offs, but here there seem to be fewer sacrifices. Yes, I work remotely, but my wife receives an Ecuadorian salary and we still live very comfortably. The hardest part is to slow down and release those high-strung expectations from living in the US. But as you do you realize it's ok to wait for shared transportation rather than buy and maintain a car; it's ok to make frequent trips to the grocery for fresh food rather than stock up on frozen stuff at Costco or Trader Joe's; it's ok to stumble through learning a foreign language for that feeling of success of when you are finally able to order what you want and actually get it. Keep up the good work, Amelia & JP!
Stocking up on frozen stuff means half of it going to waste for me, more gets thrown away than eaten.
You guys are amazing pointing out exactly how things are about living abroad not only in Ecuador, my birth country, but anywhere in the world. After living in the U.S since I was 14, I decided to move back to Ecuador at 53. I must say, it wasn't easy even for me knowing the language, but I am living life once again. I love the U.S and I'm grateful for all I was able to achieve there and miss certain things, but financially it was impossible for me to stay. We Ecuadorians love having friends and helping anyone in need. Don't believe everything you hear in the news. Give yourselves a chance to be happy and start living. God bless you guys. I hope to see you around Manta one day!!
I like to. heard inspiring stories of Ecuadorian returning to live back home. I hope to be one them to enjoy our beautiful country. Bendiciones!
Thanks for sharing! And welcome home! 🥳🇪🇨
How did your family get green card?
@@Bambotb My father was a U.S citizen. I didn't have to apply for a green card. Although I was born in Ecuador and lived here for 14 years, my father registered me at birth in the U.S consulate in Guayaquil. That makes me pretty much an American...twice!! :)
@@1YuriC nice how did he get citizenship
Life for all but a tiny elite in the United States is a stressful rat race. And even many with money are stressed by their over-committed and over-busy lives. I have lived in both The United States and in Ecuador. For low stress Ecuador certainly takes the cake.
People have been talking me out of moving to Ecuador sometime next year, this has rekindled my desire to leave the insanity of the US behind.
Let me guess, those warning you have no passports....right?
Rode a motorcycle in Ecuador for a month by myself this year and loved it. I used some of your videos as research.
Great! 👍🇪🇨
Hey, Trice, long time no see. This is Mike. I stayed with you coming up from my Darien run in 2010. I ended up in SA in 2013 and left my KLR in Ecuador. Loved Cuenca and hoping to stay there for six months next year. Glad you got a chance to ride down there.
I heard a Mom tell me how she wished they hadn't come to L.A from Mexico. Her son turned from a respectful good student to a disrespectful slacker. The peer pressure on kiddos is unreal and like you said, the pace is so rushed. I started to think of calm as integral to respect. There is a lack of respect in the tyranny of the urgent.
Read Speed and Politics by Paolo Virno.
@@Graeberwave Very interesting...
Thanks for letting me know...I was in France in 71-2 so I might want to read the original in French...I found this: With this book Paul Virilio inaugurated the new science whose object of study is the "dromocratic" revolution.
Speed and Politics (first published in France in 1977) is the matrix of Virilio's entire work. Building on the works of Morand, Marinetti, and McLuhan, Virilio presents a vision more radically political than that of any of his French contemporaries: speed as the engine of destruction. Speed and Politics presents a topological account of the entire history of humanity, honing in on the technological advances made possible through the militarization of society. Paralleling Heidegger's account of technology, Virilio's vision sees speed-not class or wealth-as the primary force shaping civilization. In this "technical vitalism," multiple projectiles-inert fortresses and bunkers, the "metabolic bodies" of soldiers, transport vessels, and now information and computer technology-are launched in a permanent assault on the world and on human nature. Written at a lightning-fast pace, Virilio's landmark book is a split-second, overwhelming look at how humanity's motivity has shaped the way we function today, and what might come of it.
@@karmacounselor Virilio sorry. There is a Paolo Virno in Italy that writes similar stuff. His book "Grammar of the Multitude," also very good.
Tyranny of the urgent so perfectly captures what happens on the streets in commutes and in the hallways at work.
Walked the streets of NYC and had the homeless calling out to me for a hot meal. It was hard to find the happiness I have here in Costa Rica.
The systems of manipulation and control are so sophisticated in the USA that people living there cannot fully comprehend that they are little more than living puppets. The thought of being back there even for a short visit is chilling. Even though there are strong nostalgic feelings, having lived there almost my entire life, the place just scares me. It seems to be getting worse and worse.
It's upside down world. What's true is false. What's false is true. Very Orwellian.
Exactly JP! I've been using that phrase too the past few years...upsidedown world! It's surreal.
Straight truth! My husband is a high school teacher and at last night’s football game, a mass shooting was impeded with minutes to spare. It’s all over the news here in Texas. I am grateful it didn’t happen and that the gunman was apprehended with his AR in his vehicle just in time, but in this country, the mass shooting culture complacency is just….there are no words for it. Chilling does not begin to describe it. I want out. Now.
... wow......... Wish I knew how to escape, but I'm 72 and alone, female, inexperienced and just flat out don't know how to go about it.
SUGGESTIONS???
Can I collect my S.S. in Ecuador?
@@kateoneal4215 hi Kate, we’re the same age. I left the US when I was 67. I just didn’t want to live like that anymore. Everyone said it was a crazy idea but I just had to get out of there. I left with one suitcase and an overnight bag and flew to Southeast Asia, a place I had never laid eyes on. I’ve been living in the mountains of northern Thailand ever since. Maybe it was just dumb luck but any nervousness or apprehension just vanished as soon as I stepped off the plane. This place is great. These people are really nice-genuinely. And even though it was a struggle financially to get by the first 18 months while my NYC apartment was on the market and not sold, I managed somehow on my SS alone while still paying mortgage and NYC bills every month. Nothing was a strain because I was happy, couldn’t stop smiling. I think you should start making a plan even if it seems far-fetched. SS can go a long way in lots of places outside the US…. Besides, it’s exciting just to think about it.
Just one more comment. Your remarks about healthcare outside the U.S. are so spot on. I am having carpal tunnel surgery next month here in Costa Rica, and the cost will be 25% of what the cost would be in the U.S. Healthcare in Costa Rica is outstanding, affordable, and very humanitarian. We have had the experience of doctors coming to our home to check on us also, just as you mentioned in one of your video. Keep up the great work. Paul
I am in the USA and really want to be in Ecuador. So tired of almost everything about it. 😵💫
so true
Don’t let the BS from the US State Dept scare you. There are lots of wonderful places outside the US.
@@MW-nr3lg I don't think any sentient, sensitive or sane person would want to swap places with me. Making such a statement as you did is like making a sweeping assumption that invalidates my experience up to this point showing me that I must flee the only home I've ever known for the last 50 years.
Politics so bad in US that I gave up social media altogether. So stressful.
I need to follow your lead. Good job. Hope your stress dissipates. Follow the JP & Amelia Way.
Same. I quit all but RUclips.
Same!
We love to visit countries outside the US, but choose to say, in part for family reasons. For those who wish to leave the US but can’t for whatever reason, there are things you can do to lessen the stress: spend less time on the internet, consolidate driving trips, start a little garden, avoid processed foods, read instead of watching tv. To a certain extent, we all create our own realities and we do have the power to make some changes.
Very true
Just like the saying goes “wherever you go, there you are “. It’s true. We create our own realities in many ways…
I can totally relate to this video! After living in Spain for three and a half years on my retirement pension, I came back to Canada and realized it was impossible to survive here! My stress level went through the roof, took me four months to see my doctor, couldn't even afford to buy groceries! So, I am moving! Coming to Ecuador in 10 days!!! Yay! 😁
Today’s your day? Best wishes for a sweet landing in your new life! Congrats for having the courage and determination to pick up and go! I’m working on my Spanish and slowly getting rid of things, mustering the courage to make a change and go somewhere where I don’t know anybody!
@@darlin5167
Just arrived, so far so good. People super friendly and helpful. Go for it, enjoy the whole world while you can!
I am SO grateful to be out of the US insanity, and here in Ecuador peace and quiet. A great Blessing 💗☮
Ecuador has it's own problems but overall the good outweighs the bad and a lot is depending in which city or area you are staying. It's definitely a more relaxed and calm way of life for the most part.
Yes, even with the church bells ( still missing. The roosters , the cars honking etc ) here with such long winter, darker. Sjorter days... not really nice at all!
Just always be careful...like lm here in the USA.
Yes, the prices are low from the point of view of former Americans who made their$ at US wages. But for Ecuadorians, the costs are high.
I lived in Greece in early 70s so I totally relate. Now I live in North idaho on 27 acres of forest in the mountains. I have a greenhouse and gardens, fruit trees and berries. We can, freeze and dry our harvest and in our winters I garden in raised beds in our basement and greenhouse. I'm 72 and here to stay with family all around. Sometimes you have to make it work where you are. No stress here.
Great vid, spot on on every point. Been here for 13 years and returned to the US 3 years ago and I still suffer from sticker shock and PTSD. And like you guys, I couldn’t wait to get back. Sleep better, eat better, and exercise more. I have fully embraced the mañana attitude and hence no stress. Interesting thing I just read, there are currently 330,000 expat SSA recipients and the SSA anticipates there will be 3.5 million expat recipients when all the rest of the boomers retire. I expect Ecuador will see a good percentage of those people due to all the points you talked about. Love your videos.
Makes me feel sorry for Ecuador.
Don't count on 3.5 mln more SSA expats. The Republicans are fixing to get rid of it when they get back in power
I am leaving the country of Georgia 🇬🇪 on Monday to head back to the matrix USA 🇺🇸 for two weeks & then back to Ecuador 🇪🇨 in October where I will have peace ☮️ of mind & soul.
Safe travels! 👍
We were planning on doing Portugal and Georgia this summer. But, the Ukraine thing, stock market failures and talk of nukes made us put that on hold. What has the cultural sentiment been like in Georgia this summer?
This phenomenon is well documented with expat American students who go to college in Europe.
Many times an (abused) person doesn’t acknowledge they have been suffering until they are removed from the environment causing it.
Yes! Exactly!
Thanks Amelia and J.P. for another Great video! I just moved back to Ecuador a year ago, and feel I got out right on time. I agree with all you said in video. I still keep up with news of U.S.A. and it makes me glad I am here, not there! The last two week ends they have had Beautiful parades here with horses and brightly dressed dancers and music. Every one was happy and cheerfully celibrating, not angry hateful protests like in U.S. So glad I am here enjoying Beautiful Ecuador like ya¨ll and other expats. Also I am about to start collecting s.s which will go along way since my house is paid for, s.s would go nowhere in U.S.A. !!!
Hey Richard, our S.S. is sent to banks there with no problem?
I need to know the nitty gritty, everyday issues and solutions.
I agree with many things you have mentioned but since the Pandemic, we are actually living a better life. I am retired and my wife works from home permanently. Neither of us have to drive anywhere plus we got rid of one of our cars as well as paid off the other. We have reduced our debt by a large amount and we enjoy our life much more now. When my wife retires, we have plans to move to Queretaro, Mexico. Hope you have a great day!!
Amelia, don't worry of the happiness index since this index is created for propaganda reasons to correlate this happiness index with per capita income. In 2012, when the first of these surveys was, people were asked: "Are you happy right now?". In that first survey, 9 Latin American countries came out in the top 10 for happiness. But this breaks the belief that the higher the per capita income, the greater the happiness. So the following year they changed the question: "Have you been happy all your life?" and for the calculation of the index, they added indicators such as human development, life expectancy, etc indicators that are correlated with per capita income. To show
I live in the U.S. and agree with all you said. Thanks.
Great video Amelia and JP. Great points about the limited scope of friendships people in the States have. It's also depressing to have to drive EVERYWHERE; you never interact with anyone outside of your socioeconomic bubble. It's one of the reasons I like airports and your local division of motor vehicles office... it's the only place where Americans are "forced" into gathering in the same place.
Yeah but even then noone talks to or interacts with each other. I truly believe the American people absolutely hate each other, and when what passes here for civilization collapses, and everyone will be fighting each other like starving rats.
And electric cars certainly won't improve the social distance problem, the living costs or the environment.
Ecuadorians love our country, its flora and fauna, its food, its customs etc, if they emigrate it is out of necessity for something, things in the country have changed for the better in Ecuador, we Ecuadorians prefer to travel to the US or Europe to study or on vacation, not to be a necessity we emigrate, in my case I would like to go to Europe or the US but on vacation, I love my country and what it offers me, I live in the Galapagos Islands I am fortunate to live in a safe place.
Thanks for sharing! 😊🇪🇨
I have lived all over the world. Sometimes for the military, and other times teaching English.
Mostly have lived in Chile but now in Uruguay for the last 5 years.
I agree with most all your points. I aint no vegetarian. The steaks are great in Uruguay and Argentina and the fishing is good too.
Be good. Do right.
Thank you for your content.
I have lived in Kuwait, Iraq, Germany, Turkey, Spain, Chile, and Uruguay as an expat.
I like Uruguay and Chile because the Atlantic and the Pacific are beautiful for different reasons.
The no car thing is awesome, I agree.
Be good, do right
Gracias amigos
Matt, how are things in Uruguay these days? I haven’t been down there for 10+ years, but I love it there! Have dreams of going back…
I cannot wait to get out of the United States. Only 15 more months until I will join y’all in Manta. I’m most likely going to start a business with a friend in Montanita. I was there in July laying the groundwork. Met all sorts of people from all over the globe especially in Quito. The story was always the same how much more they enjoyed life and had zero stress. One of my favorite things in all of Ecuador is the lunches in Manta. Incredible!
Thanks for all of your videos.
I've been watching a YT channel, Sailing Zatara. This family sold everything and bought a sail boat to travel around the world. In Panama,one of their children fell out of a tree and broke her wrist. She was sent to a hospital, had x rays and surgery to pin her wrist, total bill was under 200.00. The Mom had to have a root canal in Jordan and that was less than 100.00. They were impressed with the quality of their healthcare, most drs spoke English and the locals were helpful in recommending drs or clinics
.My brother in law had quad-by pass surgery and several months later his US doctor cleared him to travel to the UK. After the plane landed in the UK, he thought he was having a heart attack. He was sent to a NHS hospital for tests ,he did not have another heart attack and he was never billed by the NHS.
Why can't we have healthcare rather than sickness care
It's a shame that YT only has a like or dislike choice. This video, as is true of so many of JP and Amelia's videos, so deserves a ♥
Awww! Thanks! We would just be happy if YT would recommend our videos to people! And stop unsubscribing our loyal viewers!
Actually YT only has a like choice now. If you choose to dislike thumbs down then it doesn’t record it.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 Is that accurate? I had read that thumbs down responses are recorded and shown to the owner of the video, so they are aware of the negative feedback without creating an overall negativity feedback loop to the watchers in the same way that a ❤option addition might just create overall positivity feedback loop, which might just be a good thing, especially for consistently great content producers like Amelia and JP.
@@johnway9853 I have always given JP and Amelia videos thumbs up because I really enjoy them. It’s a source of great information and they are enthusiastic about their topics
I went to the US as an immigrant but I decided to come back to my home country and don't want to go back to US but I'm applying to to migrate to Ecuador.
Nicely done! The reverse culture shock is real. We've been back in the US about two months and it takes some getting used to.
I've lived outside the US for ten years of my adult life. Bringing our children to live most of their high school years in Nepal and the country of Georgia gave them tremendous insight into what it means to be American and a citizen of the world. We're glad to be back in the US and close to our kids while they're in college, but we bought an inexpensive house to have more money for travel.
About two years ago we started looking at where we might want to retire in seven or eight years. I really zeroed in on Ecuador. I've only seen two of your videos so far, but I'm looking forward to seeing all of them.
Our son may do a language program in Cuenca this summer (if approved, his University would foot much of the bill), and I truly hope he gets it. We will visit him whether he likes it or not. Thanks for these videos!
I'm an expat in Thailand. I think that we are more happy than most people living in these countries because expat are usually wealthier and have more free time. Money doesn't buy happiness but it sure make life more enjoyable.
I've lived in 3 other countries and visited many more in my life. I'm longing to find another country to live in, but due to the whole world situation right now, finding just the right place is a hard decision. I'd love to live in Europe but with what's going on with Russian and Ukraine,, plus their drought, it doesn't seem like the best choice right now. We've came to Cuenca in 2019. I loved the place but had altitude sickness. Mexico would be great if it wasn't so hot. We're planning on checking out Buenos Aires next month and maybe Uruguay. I have so much "treasure" to get rid of, it is really slowing things down. I've made a bit of money selling things, which will not only help pay for the trip, but mean less belongings to ship wherever we end up.
Great adventure! 👍
We were in Cuenca for 8 days and literally just returned home to the U.S. about 6 hours ago. We should have stayed in Ecuador. By the way, Xavier Montezuma says hello.
Oh no! Come back soon!
Xavier and Samara are amazing people!
@@AmeliaAndJP We will be back in Cuenca in the Spring of 2023 for a few weeks. After that we'll start on the paperwork for a permanent move in late 2024/early 2025. Your videos have been quite helpful.
In U.S. people have big houses in debt and are never in them...just to sleep. Always at work, running errands, yard work, maintenance on weekend, back to work on Monday. They drive to work in traffic and car sits all day at work....just live to earn money...what a drag..
I am enjoying your videos so much. My wife and I live in Costa Rica, and so much of how you describe your life, your reasons for leaving the US, and the great benefits of living in another country apply to us. I'm sure we could chat for hours and share so many common experiences and perspectives. We have been to Ecuador many times, and we love it also. Costa Rica is our pais del corazon, and we love living both in the mountains and on the beach here. Keep the great content coming, and if you ever visit Costa Rica, please let us know.
Just got back to the Philippines for the 5th and final time and I wholeheartedly agree with you. My stress level along with my weight has plummeted. No catalytic converter thieves, porch pirates , road rage, incessant politics and a constant diet of bad news/violence/corruption. Sure, the Philippines isn't perfect, but the good FAR outweighs the bad. I can live easily on my SS checks without touching my savings.. It's just more humane and peaceful here..
I have to laugh at your post on this. I also went back to the US for a month and couldnt believe how expensive it was. I dont think I spent less than $35 for a single restaurant meal and my car rental was over $50 a day as opposed to $13 two years ago. And you are right that the outlook and friendliness of people in the US has changed for the worse. I moved to Montenegro 2 years ago and do love it here. Bought a condo on a mountain overlooking Kotor Bay. People are friendly and it is very inexpensive country. Have met many friends here, some from Montenegro but others from England, Wales, Puerto Rico, etc, so going out for coffee or restaurant is always interesting conversation. But the language here is quite difficult. I too was happy to get back after that month. And I do get to drive around the Balkans and see things that people flying around do not get to. So good luck on your adventure. There are more and more of us expats all over the world now.
I have friends from US living here in Mallorca, Spain, that they don't want to leave the island as they are pretty sure that the way they live here can't be matched by the American Way of life: Free healthcare, 40h working (no more), better diet, better weather, we live for friends and families... .
Bienvenidos a casa de nuevo! Me encantan sus videos! Gracias por compartir sus experiencias, en muchas ocasiones me preguntaba porque tantos norteamericanos prefieren vivir acá en Ecuador mientras nosotros queremos ir a US y este video me hace pensar: "cuidado con lo que deseas" 😜
Muy muy cierto!
La vida aquí es muy, pero muy acelarada. A menos que tengas familia que te apoye solo vienes a encerrarte y aislarte. El sueño americano con mucho esfuerzo se lograba en año anteriores pero como puedes ver hoy en día hasta los norteamericanos se quejan. Tengo 63 años y cuido a mi mamá de 98 y que lo poco que tenemos nos alcanza para el pan de cada día. Pero salir a restaurantes o ir a la playa se nos hace muy extravagante. Prefiero estar en casa y preparar la comida y me alcanza para cuatro personas. Mira a tu alrededor y aprecia tu cultura, familia y tradiciones. Esas son irremplazables. Que Dios te bendiga!
i agree that the USA ranking 16 is hard to fathom; Ecuador at 76 less so, remember this is not a poll for people who are moderately well off, but some average for the entire population; certainly for the ex-pats living a fairly prosperous lifestyle in Ecuador I would expect they are way happier on average than being relatively poor in the States
Dear Amelia & JP, thanks for your nice videos ! You mentioned, that the people in every country (you know) want the same...be happy and enjoy life. I´m glad that you see it that way, because that gives me a silver lining on the horizon. I lived my whole life in Austria (Europe) and worked also for many years in Germany. These countries are, in that perspective, incredible toxic and "the writing on the wall" for something bad is huge ! You know the sad history of Austria and Germany :( I hope I can accomplish getting out of here some day. All the best !!
Thank you Amelia & JP ... I always watch your videos and I'm very happy that you found a home here in my beautiful country. This world needs more people like you, sharing happiness to others. God bless you
Gracias! 😊🇪🇨
Great video! I’m from Ecuador (live in Florida at the moment) with more economic opportunity, Ecuador is a no brainer. Once you live abroad, you realize that is so much more out there than just make a living.
While my US life if very stress-free, the thought of dealing with the US healthcare system in retirement is enough incentive to plan my move!
Amelia & JP I can't thank you enough for all beautiful videos you share with your followers ❤️. I want to have the courage you guys had when you left the States and move abroad. Here, I just work M - F, then on weekends I go food shopping, laundry etc. I always look tired. Need to change my life.
You can do it! 🥳
I'm really happy for you and love your videos. I've spent time on multiple continents and I really get it. All of your points are wonderful and legit, I just wish you would have openly acknowledged that many of your economic advantages in Ecuador squarely rest on your relatively high income from US based companies.
We often talk about that and encourage people to bring their income with them when they move abroad.
I'm constantly tired but feel so much more awake when in Peru.
Your list mirrors mine here in Santa maria Haultulco, mexico. My life is so amazing here. I'm 67 and can live with no stress here. I've no plans to return to the United states unless it's to visit family.
Sixteen years ago, at the age of 59, I came to visit Medellin, Colombia and, I never left. Actually, I settled near Rionegro. Like Ecuador, life is far more relaxed and the food is much better than up north. I should add, when I came here I spoke almost no Spanish but, learned quickly. Well, that was pretty easy since I married a Colombian lady. Recently, we have actually considered moving to Ecuador, mostly because we're worried about the hard turn to the left with the new president, Petro. However, after evaluating (on paper) Ecuador, we've decided to stay put. One reason is health care. We have excellent health care here, with full coverage (EPS) and the premiums are only about $35 USD per month. Don't have any English speaking doctors but, since I'm now pretty much fluent in Spanish, it's not a problem. I have had occasions to make significant use of that health care and it is indeed as good or better than in the US and I've never had to pay anything other than the monthly premiums. Per our evaluation, the cost of living here is less than in Ecuador as well, mainly because we eat out very frequently - 3 to 4 times a week - and, I'm pretty much on a carnivorous diet. I do return to the Texas once a year, at Thanksgiving to visit my kids and grand kids and I'm always very anxious to get back home to Colombia. I should say, before moving to Colombia, I lived for two years in Costa Rica and really was not comfortable there. It was just way too touristy for me. Small town central Colombia (Antioquia) is more relaxed, while still having access to all the conveniences of life. I did find maintaining "resident" status here to be a pain so, several years ago i opted for Colombian citizenship (nationalidad colombiana).
How easy/hard is it to get citizenship?
@@amylee9 It can be rather complicated but, I can't offer any specifics as I became a colombia citizen (nationalidad colombiana) almost 10 years ago and the process has changed. I do know, if you're married to a native colombian, you can get citizenship pretty easily, after living here as a permanent resident for 5 years. Although I truly love living here, I wouldn't personally recommend becoming a citizen unless you have a really good reason for it. Taxes in colombia are quite high and starting business is somewhat difficult and difficult to maintain. Being an employer here is very onerous and expensive, even though wages are very low. Once you've hired someone, it's nearly impossible and very expensive to terminate them. If you plan to live here, it's best to get your income from outside the country. Getting cash into and out of the country requires lots of documentation and, if you do become a citizen, subject to high income taxes. I don't want to discourage anyone from moving here but, be aware of the potential burdens and complications. complications. Get an immigration lawyer.
This was such a great video! After watching you guys for a couple years I'm pretty sure that I want to move to Ecuador. But I've never been there before. 🙄😁
I'm hoping to plan a trip next fall. Thank you so much for all the information you share, and for sharing your fun energy and vibrant life. 😁❤️
We retire in 6 months and we are soooo excited. We are STRESSED OUT !
Stress eating… YEP !
Stress napping…. YOU BETCHA !
We are going to start our retirement in Mexico ( San Cristobal de las Casas ) because we can drive our senior dogs instead of fly them. But, when they are gone we will be traveling south and Ecuador is a country we hope to spend some time in.
You all use only the public healthcare there or do you also buy private insurance ? Thx !
We only have private insurance. We know lots of people who use the public IESS healthcare and have good things to say, but it's not nearly as good as the private system.
@@AmeliaAndJP
We are 55 and 60. Curious what private might cost there….and guessing the cost increases with age ?
Thx very much !
@@bananapatch9118 Good question! They have a video on health insurance options.
@@bananapatch9118 My sister paid a private insurance called VERIS something like 180 dollars, but it included her daughters and husband in the same price, they had a very wide coverage, also she as she works for a private company pays the public insurance something like 25 dollars the rest is paid by the company something like 50 dollars, Total cost 75 dollars per month the social security of the government, if you enroll voluntarily costs minimum 75 dollars, private insurance is faster than public.
@@proyectonuevo7487
That seems very reasonable. In Mexico we were quoted $400-$500/month USD for both of us. That seems high, but also the price increase as you age, so even if we started it at 55 and 60, eventually we would get to a point where we couldn’t pay it.
We also thought perhaps we should eventually pay for Medicare and go home for big stuff and pay out of pocket for small stuff. I would rather just have a reasonable private insurance and never need to fly back to the US….and not pay for part B or a supplement.
It may be a couple years but we’ll eventually work our way south and spend some time in Ecuador, and maybe stay. Thx very much !
I lived in Europe for several years, and I can tell you I was much happier in Europe. I love America... don't get me wrong... I'm not sure what the difference is, outside of the obvious differences. Life was definitely lived at a slower pace in Europe, there was always something to do or see, during our downtime, people actually knew how to drive and everyone was super friendly and welcoming. I cried when we left to come back to the States, as the plane taxied down the runway and took off. I wish we would have stayed, at least for a few more years. I cried for weeks after we came back. I definitely understand the reverse culture shock you mentioned. It was sad.
Hyper inflation is really out of control, here in the U.S., and we live in an area where the cost of living is actually very reasonable. I am continously shocked by how much my grocery bill is every time I go shopping. It's stressful and depressing. Honestly if I could go back, I think I would.
Absolutely true. I left the USA back in 2015. I had to return in 2018 for 1 year, then I left again. Haven't been back since. That year in 2018 was the worst one in a long time
Hi guys. Great video. As an ecuadorian I shouldn´t need to wacth videos from american expats, but is it a shock I could benefit from this? I kinda do because you bring a different perspetive and it helps in a way that we appreciate more what we have. So many people suffer so much trying to get into the US and maybe is not really worth it. Learning the language however, is so very much worth any effort.
You are 💯 correct.
I speak Spanish as a second language, but 60 years of visiting and living in Mexico, mainly Acapulco
We have been here for 5 days from Canada and we feel exactly the same way..Glad to be out of the NA and European media matrix.
Great video, we just returned from Ecuador. I truly didn't want to leave. I am suffering from depression since we left. My 4th visit and already planning the next.
I tell my friends all the time that the US paints Ecuador and the rest of the world as such a dangerous place. The only place safe is the US. I say BS and believe it is the opposite. The US is the dangerous place.
Took the condola ride in Quito,
I now know what elevation sicken is. Thanks for all you do.
Roger
Glad you enjoyed your trip! 🥳🇪🇨
Thank you! What I personally like is the positive vibes you send, talking about Ecuador. Again lots of info to know. 👏🏾👏🏾
"Ecuador is a country of friendly people." Many gringos admire that and realize that it is an example to follow and the adaptation is immediate.
I've. been back to the US twice, both times soooooo expensive! Two burgers, fries and cokes $40.
Please don't read this in a rude way, I am just going to be objective.
It would be awesome to have your quality of life with Ecuadorian wages, and that is your advantage, Amelia makes 50k a year probably and JP makes a little less maybe, depends on RUclips I guess. The thing is that here the minimum wage is 425 dollars a month which translates to a bit over 5k a year. And there is where the stress appears, so it would be a cool exercise to try to make a living with only 850 bucks to spend in a month and see if your quality of life gets better or worse and also to see if you need to acquire debt. Again this that I'm saying may sound rude but it is just being objective. Really like your content
Wow. Talk about presumptuous.
That is not our story. We couldn’t live a comfortable life on minimum wage in the US either. Middle class Ecuadorians earn closer to $1000 to $2000 per month, which was our budget the first 3 years we lived in EC and we were quite comfortable.
I wonder if the person that made that survey is measuring happiness by the USA's definition....cars they can't afford..homes they can't afford...jobs they couldn't afford and are still paying student loans on
Great question!
Leaving New York City, and the US of A, was the best decision I ever made. I snicker whenever I hear some idiot in the media say, "America is the greatest country in the world!" Most Americans believe it because they've never ventured outside of the country. The US is all about money money money...especially in the big cities. I've been living in Paris for the last 20 years and though it has its share of stress and neuroses, the human relationship is so much more present here than what I experienced in NY. When I was dirt broke in the early years, I found doctors, dentists, landlords who lent me a helping hand, expecting nothing in return. And if you want to live in France outside of Paris, a friend just bought a little 900 sq/ft house in a village near Poitier for 60 grand. And she has a lot of nature all around her, she's not in some ugly dump with little houses next to one another.
Excellent as usual! If there is a worldwide economic collapse looming, I believe countries like Ecuador will survive it better, which can be another reason to get out of a country that will not fare well without a daily Starbucks fix! Ecuadorians know how to be resilient. They repair instead of replace. As a wasteful gringo, I like how on trash days I can not only put out recyclables for others to take but nice things I may no longer have use for & they find a new home.
You can always try Sweet & Coffee in Ecuador.
I have 2 years, 5 months and that seems like an eternity. I really can’t wait to move abroad. Politics and inflation and crime have taken a toll on me.
I suppose there are folks that feel that way...but, there are people who love where they live here in the USA. I do not wait for months for a doctor & enjoy my neighbors. I love the ranch market I visit weekly and the farmer’s markets are fun to go to also. I have a variety
of friends made from every trip I have taken abroad - several who have visited us here Scottsdale. But, like I said - to each his own.🌵😎✌🏽🇺🇸
Amelia’s dad has to wait 10 months to see his cardiologist. It took 3 months to see my doctor in Denver. Be thankful for your situation.
I just left The US and moved to Vilcabamba Ecuador just 2 weeks ago
So... how's it going so far?
Bienvenidos a Ecuador! 🥳🇪🇨
Great video - again. Thanks! I will be in Quito Sunday! Cuenca on the following Thursday! Three weeks in EC this time. So looking forward to it.😁
Very exciting! 🥳
it's great to hear this...we life in South Africa Johannesburg my husband is from US. he says the same thing food soo much better here we pay cash for most things here in South Africa.
A lot of South Africans is going to South America its nice to see there is options .
we loved you content.
Depends how much weight was given to each factor that contributes to happiness. Here it looks like money (per capita income) was a major factor since I am seeing many developed countries topping the list. Didn't take into the consideration the factors you folks have described in this video.
Exactly 👍
My wife and I are looking at Vilcabama... We want a 'warmer' climate... living here in California is a nightmare, but we love the weather... Where you two live is not for us, way to high in elevation, cold, & cloudy.... but as long as you are happy!
Loved this one! So inspiring! 🦋
My husband and I have watched most of your videos.
I almost cried when you were talking about the positive healthcare experiences you’ve had in Ecuador because I could feel your relief. I’m so happy for you!
I visited Cuenca several years ago and it appeared to me to be a third world country. I shopped at a local grocery store for food and the prices were less but not significantly less. I visited Mexico also and felt the same way about my experience there. I like to travel internationally but I’m happy staying and living in the US. If I were going to move anywhere it would be to Europe probably France.
You make many good points about why it's great to live elsewhere than the U.S. I finally moved last month to Cuenca. However, my desire to stay in touch with not only global events, but those happening in the U.S. hasn't waned. I don't feel it's a burden, but a realm I need to be aware of, as it affects all of us no matter where we live. Everything is political. Thankfully, NPR and PBS Newshour help me to stay abreast of what is going on in our world. I want no surprises.
My grandfather was a career military man and worked for the state department he told me before he died... If you want to know the state of your world all you need to do is look out your window because that is your world. He said that anytime you reach out to a digital source for the information of what's happening in the world they only point you to the information that makes them money. Through your stress through your fear et cetera
We still read the headlines on Apple News, which contains sources from the far left to the far right and several in the middle so we know what’s going on. But we don’t let it rule our lives or dominate our conversations like most Americans.
@@GUITARTIME2024 What do you find listenable now?
@@GUITARTIME2024 so you weather listening to Tucker from Fox News. I feel like Fox News is state media from Russia.
@@kristybobby Try The Duran channel.
Havent been to my "old country" in 16 years until we spent 3 months there last summer. Always felt but never fully realized how unhappy and stressed I am in USA until I went back "home" to Balkans last July. After that, we decided we are moving to Europe in July/August this year if everything works out as planned and right now we are setting thing in motion one by one. Hopefully, it will be forever move.
when you don't have to worry about bills and health cause those areas are affordable stress levels go down ,and the quality of the food helps a lot cause you are what you eat.
Thanks! Always great information and helps reinforce my beliefs that I will be doing the right thing. There are things in the US that are really becoming unbearable such as medical costs, politics and the need and expense for transportation to go almost anywhere. Your video is spot on to the way I feel also. Working on looking for a remote IT position where I can work from anywhere and start enjoying living in Ecuador.
You can get a 2 year visa for remote workers
So glad you made it to Ecuador and are happy and free. Here in my coastal town of Kristiansand Norway we have free healtcare, education, and 6 weeks paid holyday. We work to live ! No need for cars, affordable housing many places outside Oslo. Dont know how you Americans survive living cost, btw!!!
A very inlightening video, I am glad to see life in ecuador is working out for you. I am hoping to travel to areas in south america soon. my best wishes to both and thanks for sharing
I'm happy in the United States 27 years living here married to an American, when I go back to visit my South American country I appreciate US more and more
Good comment about world view! I love this quote from Rick Steves "Fear if for those who don't get out much"
Love watching your videos. Love to imagine living an expat lifestyle in Ecuador. Sadly having no money, I can only dream.
I'm an Ecuadorian living in Denver and I'm looking forward for your videos on remote work. I plan to go back to Ecuador by 2024
Welcome back to the country, you will always be welcome thanks to you the country managed to recover from the bank holiday, you who sent remittances to those who stayed in Ecuador, always grateful for you, Ecuador awaits you with open arms, more than 20 years ago we lived a hard time with the diaspora but that has already happened ...
You are so right about health care. It’s horrible here in the US for so much money
This video really resonated with my wife and I. We can’t wait for your video on remote jobs, we’re so ready to relocate to another country. Keep up the great job, love the videos and all the great info!!
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights. Very powerful. I'm Israeli but I would love to live abroad. Happy for you!
😊😊😊 Agree times 10 +++
I don't think I need to write more!!
Thanks so much for sharing 💕❤️💕
I have spent over 1500 dollars on maintenance on a car and a truck this summer. I still have a problem with the car, and it's not reliable. I'm having to work part time to afford paying taxes now, and that means a lot of miles on vehicles that are being used up. I'm spending 150 for three bags of groceries, and have to eat out when working. Everyone in the states seems to be in a great hurry all the time, and there are more accidents. I am thinking of selling all my stuff and putting it in savings until I get in a position to get the hell out of Dodge. I feel like a prisoner in my own home, the local council think they have a HOA in this little town of 260, like if my lawn is mowed to 1 1/2 inch at all times, their property value will double. It has gotten INSANE here. I used to leave 1/4 acre in alfalfa clover for the bees, but was sued for it, and was forced to cut down trees and to keep it all mowed. The trees they let me keep they sprayed roundup around and killed half of them, so I have some dead trees now. Things seem to be escalating to a tipping point, and I don't want to be around when people start balancing the scales. This is not the world I grew up in, and I can and will protect myself, if need be, I have been wide awake since i was drafted for VN. Most people act like everything is good, but I think they are in denial, and in for a rude awakening.
Amo su contenido, de cada charla, de cada experiencia que nos comparten por aquí estoy aprendiendo y afianzando mas la idea de vivir nuestro retiro en mi lindo Ecuador. Gracias!!
You are spot on about health care in the US! I pay pennies on the dollar for health care/prescriptions in Czechia - hands down a better system!
Great video you two. Thanks. I’ve been to Ecuador twice and thought of living there about seven years ago. Have a great weekend 😎🙏
I LOVE it here in the USA!!! Western VA is temperate climate, low cost of living. My kids and grand kids are here. We all LOVE the USA