Why do you want to live in Ecuador? If you live in Ecuador, what experiences do you think others need to know about before coming? It’s always great to hang out and get a chance to talk to Don and be able to give everyone insight to what to expect in Ecuador. 💯 Check out the other Ace Talks podcast episodes on this playlist: ruclips.net/p/PLA8t5GzAfuiMHrFIvFap8YWEKl0ElAKvD
I want to live in Ecuador for the cost in living difference. I'm simple in my needs or wants for that matter. I love seafood and rarely get to eat it. In Ecuador I would be able to eat healthy.
@@wiggy5927 oh boy you’re gonna love Ecuador then for sure! Please be sure to try encebollado. Everyone talks about ceviche and it is good, no doubt about that, but it’s more expensive than encebollado and I still keep thinking that encebollado is the best. Other than that it is seafood galore around the beach so it’s gonna be paradise for you!
@@hoppeanofasgard1365 you have great taste Hoppean, but never forget the timeless classic in Ecuador (especially on the coast) which is encebollado. And the best encebollado in all the country is in Portoviejo. Also have you tried breaded fish (pescado apanado)? All breaded food is good but if you’re into seafood then the breaded fish is amazing!
@@GMAceM Thanks! When I was in Ecuador I had never heard encebollado and my spanish was only half as good as it is today so I didn't understand everything on the menus so unfortunately I didn't try it. I did however try the fried breaded fish and yes it's very good, all the fish I had along the coast was great and I've traveled all the way from Salinas in the south all the way as far north a Bahia de Caraquez/ San Vicente.
My wife and I are here in Ecuador as I watch this video. We are on our first exploratory trip to see if we are a good fit, and so far we absolutely love Ecuador! Your advice of “come here and experience this culture for yourself before you decide,” is the best advice you can give! Thanks for the video you two! Love your content!
For those talking about crime in Ecuador. Yes, it has gotten worse thanks to criminals coming in from Venezuela and Colombia. We have our own criminals, we don't need additional ones. Second, in Guayaquil, the Mexican Sonora drug cartel is trying it's best to make Ecuador part of their territory. It will take a bit of time but it will be squashed. There are specific areas that you just shouldn't go to. Just ask, anyone will help you out. Some will say don't go to Guayaquil but that's just rediculos.
The situation with criminals is slowly getting to be quite terrible. Living a normal Ecuadorian life here definitely shows how bad things can be but as long as you’re cautious I always believe you can avoid the majority of the danger. I really hope that the situation with the drug cartels gets better because that could make the whole situation in Ecuador get better overall. And I definitely agree that asking will help you avoid dangerous zones. Something I’ve been saying a lot more recently is that every city has dangerous zones, but the whole city itself isn’t dangerous. The problem is that getting a detailed map or list of places that are dangerous is hard because there are some people who believe that one zone is dangerous while others think that same zone isn’t dangerous. Opinion does play a bit into this. Like I advise people to avoid walking around alone with their cell phones out and yet I see people here do it from time to time BUT those people are residents of that zone so the zone is “safe” to that person but not safe to others. It can be quite difficult when it comes to making recommendations in a situation like that but I will always do my best to help regardless. Thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Great video! You guys provide valuable information in a most enjoyable and entertaining manner. I really appreciate the topic of this video along with your honest, realistic observations. Sadly, there are other expat RUclipsrs in Ecuador that sugar coat and misrepresent how things actually are in Ecuador. Well done gentlemen!
Thank you so much for your comment Richard! It’s always a great time with Don and we’re glad to be able to help. Hope we can keep being of assistance and thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Amazon shipping fees to Ecuador Order Summary Items: $21.99 Shipping & handling: $33.39 Your Coupon Savings: -$2.20 Total before tax: $53.18 Estimated tax to be collected: $0.00 Order total: $53.18 Here an example of shipping to Quita, EC. No free prime shipping, LOL
Hey, GM ACE, I really enjoy yours and Dons joint podcasts. You may not realize at times you two are entertaining funny. Adds alot to your more serious notes. Thanks for all the good information. Looking forward to you two, again. (ps. what I dont like about Ecuador is all the fried food! )
Hello B! Appreciate the kind words! I’m glad we can entertain and be informative, most of all it’s great to be able to help. Don will have a video up on his channel tomorrow so check it out if you get the chance! And as for the fried food, I guess you’ve got to bring some of your specialty dishes to share over here, non-fried of course. Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM Thanks Ace. Yes, and to ask for enpanadas baked.... brings awareness for people wanting baked. They are very comon in Chile and Peru. I see more and more videos, people raving about Ecuador food. Thats a good thing. Thanks again. Keep up good work. (just watched your chocolate video. Cracked me up!!! ha ha)
If you think about the news and advertising industries, the first wants us angry and afraid; the second wants us to go buy stuff to escape the anger and fear. Empire's symbiosis!
For the short time that I was in Ecuador I noticed there was a lot of honking but the intention was different. There it means, "hey, I'm here and I'm passing' where live it means "get the heck out of my way!" Having said that, lanes mean nothing in Ecuador, especially in Manta. Rules, what rules?
Great channel! Followed you from Don’s channel. All these are great points but so much depends on your individual life experience. If you’ve never left suburbia USA and come to Ecuador it’s probably a shock. That wasn’t the case for me. I’ve lived and worked in over 40 countries, including all up and down West Africa. Not much here bothers me.
Appreciate you taking the time to check it out! Well said. The life each person lives will definitely influence how they see the new life their planning to make, that’s just how it’s going to be always. And wow, 40 different countries! Which has been your favorite? Which has been the hardest to adapt to? Thanks a ton for listening/watching! 👏🏼
There is a new Airport Terminal in Manta. Now they have direct flights to Galapagos Island as well as Panama 3 x per week. From Panama you can get direct flights to most places. Also ongoing flights to Cuenca.
Don hit the nail right square on the head for me with his assessment of what I like to call the "collective consciousness" in the U.S. Competitiveness is out of control to the point where people will do things that just don't enter into the minds of people in other parts of the world. It has promoted selfishness as a norm rather than an exception. This that I describe is the "problem" that I am running from. I can't think of a better way to solve it than to change my environment.
What I feel is that that mentality is slowly making its way over here. It’s either that or there are a few people who are just like that but I have seen Ecuadorian people talking about envy and being competitive. Posts and comments from people and such about how they have co-workers or “friends” who don’t want to teach them how to do things because they want to hog the knowledge for themselves. I’ve had my fair share of backlash when trying to help English teachers with their English and they look at me like I’ve done something wrong or don’t want to listen to me. If that weren’t bad enough I’ve heard that that’s also why some people won’t accept you for the job, if you’re too good at it then they’re afraid of losing their job to you. But these could just be isolated incidents and currently I can’t say I have the best idea of what people are like in the states since it’s been a while since I’ve last gone. I have great friends who still write to me to this day and we talk from time to time, Don himself is an awesome friend and it’s always great hanging with him, and I also recently gave a tour to someone from the states who’s also a great person. Maybe I’ve just been lucky to meet great people, who knows lol But I digress, I definitely think it’s great that you look for alternatives. You certainly can’t change the people around you if they don’t want to change, but getting to see a different environment will give you more options and insight into a better life. Ecuador might literally be your paradise and I hope it is. The last thing I want is for anyone to be in a place that makes them unhappy. Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
I hope ACE will share this response - Don, I think you are too removed from the circumstances of the poor in the US who have no insurance and no medical care. Yes, public healthcare in Ecuador is lacking in toilet paper and soap, but at least the patient has doctors and nurses. You and I can afford good private insurance in Ecuador and have Medicare in the US, but many, many of the poor don't.
Real US wages have been stagnant since 1973. Add to that a very diverse population that has difficulty understanding each other. The outcome is anger and disillusionment.
It sounds really tough over in the states. Similarly to the question I always ask myself and others in Ecuador, what do you think the US can do to make things better?
Yea the US is experiencing economic hardships among other problems, I follow a podcast with an extremally knowledgably macro economist and the predictions he makes for the US are not good, of course as any wise person would say there's no certainties only probabilities, but the probability that the US is going to fix it self anytime soon is very low. We have a runaway debt problem, corrupt politicians, crooked corporations and list goes on.
@@GMAceM The population in the US first and far most would have to realize that their politicians and just most of the government in general is lying to them, they have to understand real economics like what's talked about by that channel I told you about, they'd have to understand the entire system of the US is used to support corporations and banks, not the everyday person, and then there would have to be grass roots movements to change it for the better.
Ace, I think you and Don do a great job enhancing the work of one another. Thanks for including multiple language subtitles (Including SPANISH) in this video. I'm Like # 173 for this episode/video. If you're open to a small suggestion, would you consider keeping the interview or table conversation videos to just one primary lens setting? The frequent in and out zooms are attention grabbing, however can make it difficult for a few in my family to look at the screen for more than a few minutes. Thanks for your consideration.
Hello Pedro! Always appreciate your comments and feedback. I will try to limit the lens setting to minimal or no movement. The last video where I talked about healthcare I tested it and in terms of editing it does make it easier that’s for sure. Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
I know this is a month old video but I just wanted to comment about us schools. I live and teach in Las Vegas. So many teachers will be leaving the field. I just retired and am looking forward to moving to Ecuador. Teachers are mistreated by students, by administration, and by parents.
First, thank you for your work as a teacher. I’m sad to hear how bad things have been for teachers in general and maybe one day things will be better and teachers will be appreciated. I definitely know what you mean by the mistreatment and it’s so sad because teachers are part of the foundation for everything but I think that constantly gets overlooked. I hope your transition to Ecuador goes as smoothly as possible. Thanks for listening/watching!
Hello Hoppean! I guess it depends on who you’re working for. The norm is 5 days for public institutions, schools and such but restaurants or small businesses are open 6-7 days a week. If they open all 7 days (like some bakeries/panaderías do) then at least one or two of those days they’ll close early but in other businesses (restaurants mainly) they’re open at least 6 days and if they’re big businesses then there will be shifts so different workers work different days, but if it’s a family business then uh oh. My dad is an example of that except he opens all week and only one day closes “not late”.
That's a good point, if you want ISS the "free" medical care in Ecuador as a resident you have to pay for it, only Ecuador citizens get it for free and even then not really as it's being paid for by their taxs, if they don't work I'm not sure they can get it either, maybe some exceptions are made for the elderly but again they already paid into it most likely.
I've heard a lot of people say crime is increasing in Ecuador and some Ecuadorians are moving abroad. I was in Quito, everything seemed okay during the daytime. During night, someone tried to rob me with a broken bottle. I was lucky that he didn't intend to hurt me and this was on a Ave 6 de Diciembre. Nothing was taken from me. How bad is crime really? On another occasion, I was pickpocketed for my phone and they took it. It really bothers me when people try to steal from me. Are there a lot of home invasions in Quito near Carolina Park?
First I’ll say that I’m sorry you had those things happen to you. I always try to inform as much as possible because I want to avoid these things happening to anyone but it’s hard because the conversation gets muddy when you hear the perspective of other people who don’t go through these things. (Long comment incoming) I respect everyone’s opinion and I know a lot of people have the best time and don’t have anything bad happen to them (I will be talking to someone on my next podcast episode who had the best experience) but I will ALWAYS side with caution. Now, to answer your question. From my perspective as a cautious person and hearing the things that happen here, it certainly has gotten worse than it was before. Petty crime has always been a thing (as you noticed firsthand) but in the recent years it’s escalated enough to the point where a once highly regarded as “safe” city as Quito is no longer completely safe. Are there safe areas? Of course, every city has them. Would I go out at night by myself in those safe areas? No, of course not because I am a cautious person. Not to jinx it but that’s also why I feel I haven’t been the victim to many of the things that happen, because I listen to what people have said and avoid going out late, am always on my motorcycle or in a vehicle, generally hang with someone when out and about, don’t have my valuables in an easy to reach place (pocket, bag or otherwise), leave fancy stuff at home, etc. The majority of the really bad crime is “hit” related like I mentioned when Don interviewed me on his channel and home invasions seem really unlikely to happen because of how much people safeguard their houses. It’s not like the states where there’s a giant yard and people can walk up to your door, most of the time here there’s a ton of security like an electric fence or a gate or some kind of barrier here before being able to access the door (except in poorer parts of the city). I say this because when I once asked why no one has an open garden in front of their house they thought I was crazy lol and gave me that explanation. Regardless, If I have the chance I’ll ask my cousin who’s in Quito about that situation but if I were living in a place similar to what I mentioned (with security such as an electric fence, gated community, or something) then I wouldn’t worry about home invasions, I’d be more concerned about petty crime or if I had a friend who was into really bad things (check the interview with Don to see what I mean by that). I hope this helps! 👏🏼
After watching several thousand first amendment audit videos, I have never seen one auditor harass anyone. If cameras frighten you, Ecuador is a good place to be.
I've been there a few times and yeah life there is different than in the US primarily what I noticed is a greater degree of individual freedom. There are fewer laws restricting people there. You're also more vulnerable to be stolen from there. Any native citizen will tell you that taking your eyes off anything is like relinquishing ownership. Ya gotta watch tap water too. Driving appears to be more chaotic to the uninitiated. There's fewer traffic control devices. Lane markings are more of a suggestion. Speed bumps are all over. Bigger has the right of way there, the reverse of here. If you're stopped at a traffic light in the city, you'd better start moving as soon as it turns green or you might hear some insults! The drivers are paying greater attention to their surroundings on average than here because the consequences for making a mistake are greater. For me it was thrilling to drive in Ecuador because of the competitive nature. Competent and assertive wins the day. It's a motorcycling paradise! (Outside of cities) I can't really imagine cars overtaking me on a motorcycle. I don't believe that's ever happened to me anywhere. Even in a car I rarely get overtaken. But I learned how to handle vehicles from a young age. Another thing for me is that I wouldn't move to somewhere I couldn't speak the language competently. I know that's not "necessary" to survive, but I prefer to thrive. Getting lost in the culture is a big part of the thrill for me and I want to have real conversations with people. A lot of reasons folks give for moving away from here are really city problems in this country. You get out in the country and people have a different mindset. Stuff they let slide in cities definitely won't fly out here where we're spread out and much more prepared to take care of ourselves. And we can get by on less. We spend more time with our kids and teach them more. In general we're more laid back but at the same time we don't suffer nonsense too easily. It's sad to hear of the recent uptick of delinquency in Ecuador. They would do well to follow the lead of president Bukele. Hopefully they get a handle on the situation soon. Blessings!
What a great comment, thank you for taking the time to write this all out! One thing you definitely hit the nail on the head with is the taking your eyes off of things. People always feel they have to watch their things closely because if they don’t then it’ll be gone. Even in the stream I did recently someone mentioned having their bike stolen. People have told me that recently the theft in motorcycles has gone up again (you leave it parked and it’s gone when you come back). It is tough. And speaking of motorcycles, it definitely is a great place to drive one, as long as you’re cautious with the random holes in the street lol Language is one of those things that if you want to fully integrate with everyone, then you need to know it. The best way I know to learn it, is just to practice as much as you can with those who know it and who are willing to have the patience to help you learn it. The discussion around Bukele is more on the side of not becoming like him, but as things gradually get worse I can see how people would definitely start to change their minds. The question is, is there anyone who can be like him in Ecuador and would the way Ecuador is ever permit something like this to happen? We will see. Thanks again for the comment and thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM We were driving on the road between "la T" (the intersection where you turn east to go to Salitre from la puntilla) and Junquillal and the road had deteriorated to the point where everybody was crawling through baches at ten miles per hour, at this point I was jonesin' for having my XR650L there so I could cook that road at 60mph. I got some wide-eyed looks from primos when I told them that (like it was unbelievable but they'd seen me ride so they weren't totally doubting it). This was in the time when Correa was doing obras on the main roads crossing the country, making them quite nice too, but the lesser used country roads were getting ignored and left to pot.
Maybe mention the holes in the road. I have had some flying experience on my moto with them. Especially the , as they say in Africa " sleeping policemen ".
Oh trust me I have. I made mention of them in my driving videos but I get the feeling a lot of people think I’m exaggerating. I literally almost fell in a hole about a month ago on a street that I frequent because I didn’t see it (car that was in front of me made it hard to see) and that hole hadn’t been there before. Worst part is that there’s no knowing when that hole will be patched. Of course it’s not on every street you’ll see them, but there are holes in a lot of places.
You can't get "faster food" than eating the $3 hornado plate in the Cuenca market--and oh, so delicious! "McDonald's, bite me! And I say that in peace and love!"
The markets are always amazingly cheap and the food is so good! I’ve only heard one bad story from a friend (Ecuadorian) at the mercado but aside from that it’s always cheap and good food. I sometimes get my encebollado there!
I would Esther pay a cop 20 dollars which is what I usted to pay panamanian copa when I lived there than pay American systems when you're going to pay many times more if you go to court
Haha, I'd come to Ecuador precisely because there's less traffic laws, I hope they don't change to much, maybe a little more regulation to stop people from weaving in and out of lanes cutting others off, that's not good, but I do so enjoy the freedom otherwise, and yes that also includes the freedom to have an open bottle of beer in the car. Viva Ecuador!
Why would you want to drive and drink? Freedom and careless disregard for traffic rules is not the same thing. Driving is a privilege, even here and anyone that feels like freedom is having the right to drive like an inconsiderate idiot without regard to others safety and right to travel is either a fool or ignorant.
@@DonShader There's matters of degrees to these things, for example, I don't condone recklessly going through a red light when there's alot of traffic, nor do I condone driving recklessly not considering those around you, HOWEVER what we have in the US is a situation where cops will fine you for going through red lights when there is no traffic, that I do not support at all, I do think you have to be considerate of others but when this creates laws so strict that it doesn't even allow you to pass in the right lane for example when the person in the left lane is being inconsiderate of others by driving to slow, that's a problem. Police in the US fine you for very dumb things, and we have to ask our selves what are these laws really designed for, to keep people safe or just to fatten the pockets of politicians and bureaucrats, in the US it's certainly the latter and I hope Ecuador doesn't fall into the same trap from ignorant people like you trying to change the culture.
@@DonShader Oh one last thing I thought of, if you pay taxes for any significant time, 5 years, 10 years, whatever, then driving should not be a privilege, it should be a right! No government should have the ability to take away your drivers license unless you have the unfortunate misfortune of becoming blind, in which case no you shouldn't be able to drive, but they should also refund a portion of your taxes, maybe around half of the amount that would have went specifically for roads, bridges and transit police.
@hoppeanofasgard1365 I tend to agree about the drivers license issue, if you pay for the roads, you should be able to drive on them indefinitely. At least in Ecuador property and gasoline tax is much less though so at least it's not such an insult to your person if you ever got your license taken away and at least in Ecuador it's alot harder for them to take away your license.
yeah man, in the States fucking cops will find any stupid excuse to stop you and once you stopped they will keep looking to find something else to charge you for..
Very true. I’m not exactly team “mega harsh punishment”, I just think there has to be consequences somewhere for what’s happening because clearly when there aren’t consequences, things only get worse before they come close to getting better. Or, the problem has to be eliminated at its core, and that’s definitely at home. A good education at home can at least mitigate what they will become once they leave the house. Having good values will help them make better decisions out on the street. But parents have to take action and teach their kids these things.
@@GMAceM Yes there needs to be. I think, at least in the States, they need to restore type of corporal like Don got and even myself on occasion. Once they took that out of schools the students got much worse (about 10x). Also parents need to take violent video games away from the kids.
I think a very good subject on videos with you guys would be the difficulties involved with easy air travel to and from Manta and Cuenca from many locations in the US and Canada requiring extra long stopovers, which is an obstacle to people who travel frequently or for older people.
@@dovygoodguy1296 Ecuador is not a wealthy country and air travel is a rare luxury there, hence the few available flights per day. If you require more convenience, then perhaps it would be better to remain in the first world with it's more abundant amenities
@@luisdetomaso867 The issue is no different in Nicaragua, Colombia or anywhere else. The issue is not a lack of flights but that they aren't direct from North America.
@@dovygoodguy1296 I'm not trying to be a jerk here but you keep bringing this up, even on my channel. We, nor anyone else in SA can solve this problem for you. Most people that I know just grinned and bore. It's not easy but once you get here, you're here and you can focus on other things. Do you have any other questions you'd like us to answer?
Dont be so gullible.. New York, Chicago and California where most foreigners go are not great places or a good example of the rest of the US. What Don said that people are not friendly in the US and would not wave is untrue. Ecuadorians are as bad. Don also blocks anyone that disagrees with him yet criticizes Amelia and JP and says people in the US are angry? He needs to take a look in the mirror. Many foreigners here are here because they had issues in the US. Don is no different.
Japan is financially better equipped plus their buildings actually sway during an earthquake which greatly reduces damage. All Ecuador leaders need to do is hire a few engineers/contractors from Japan to oversee the construction of new buildings and at the same time train their Ecuadorian counterparts to do it. However, this could increase the cost of real estate to increase by double.
I really must disagree maybe you lived in a bad area. We Have no problem with people in the States when ever I say hello I always 99% of the time get a hello back. We don't have a student/ Teacher problem in the state of Florida
Why do you want to live in Ecuador?
If you live in Ecuador, what experiences do you think others need to know about before coming?
It’s always great to hang out and get a chance to talk to Don and be able to give everyone insight to what to expect in Ecuador. 💯
Check out the other Ace Talks podcast episodes on this playlist:
ruclips.net/p/PLA8t5GzAfuiMHrFIvFap8YWEKl0ElAKvD
I want to live in Ecuador for the cost in living difference. I'm simple in my needs or wants for that matter. I love seafood and rarely get to eat it. In Ecuador I would be able to eat healthy.
@@wiggy5927 I've been to Salinas and Manta and the ceviche and tuna is amazing!
@@wiggy5927 oh boy you’re gonna love Ecuador then for sure! Please be sure to try encebollado. Everyone talks about ceviche and it is good, no doubt about that, but it’s more expensive than encebollado and I still keep thinking that encebollado is the best. Other than that it is seafood galore around the beach so it’s gonna be paradise for you!
@@hoppeanofasgard1365 you have great taste Hoppean, but never forget the timeless classic in Ecuador (especially on the coast) which is encebollado. And the best encebollado in all the country is in Portoviejo. Also have you tried breaded fish (pescado apanado)? All breaded food is good but if you’re into seafood then the breaded fish is amazing!
@@GMAceM Thanks! When I was in Ecuador I had never heard encebollado and my spanish was only half as good as it is today so I didn't understand everything on the menus so unfortunately I didn't try it.
I did however try the fried breaded fish and yes it's very good, all the fish I had along the coast was great and I've traveled all the way from Salinas in the south all the way as far north a Bahia de Caraquez/ San Vicente.
My wife and I are here in Ecuador as I watch this video. We are on our first exploratory trip to see if we are a good fit, and so far we absolutely love Ecuador! Your advice of “come here and experience this culture for yourself before you decide,” is the best advice you can give! Thanks for the video you two! Love your content!
Glad we can be of help and I hope you and your wife are having the best exploratory trip of your lives!
Thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
No expectation. Love the kind Ecuadorian people. Grateful for the hard working people who are always helpful. Appreciate this video.
You guys collaborate so great together. This is the second talk between you two that I have enjoyed.
Thanks so much.
Appreciate you checking it out and glad you enjoyed it! 👏🏼
Thanks for keeping it honest and talk about daily life stuff. I am sure this will help a lot of people.
For those talking about crime in Ecuador. Yes, it has gotten worse thanks to criminals coming in from Venezuela and Colombia. We have our own criminals, we don't need additional ones. Second, in Guayaquil, the Mexican Sonora drug cartel is trying it's best to make Ecuador part of their territory. It will take a bit of time but it will be squashed. There are specific areas that you just shouldn't go to. Just ask, anyone will help you out. Some will say don't go to Guayaquil but that's just rediculos.
The situation with criminals is slowly getting to be quite terrible. Living a normal Ecuadorian life here definitely shows how bad things can be but as long as you’re cautious I always believe you can avoid the majority of the danger.
I really hope that the situation with the drug cartels gets better because that could make the whole situation in Ecuador get better overall.
And I definitely agree that asking will help you avoid dangerous zones. Something I’ve been saying a lot more recently is that every city has dangerous zones, but the whole city itself isn’t dangerous. The problem is that getting a detailed map or list of places that are dangerous is hard because there are some people who believe that one zone is dangerous while others think that same zone isn’t dangerous. Opinion does play a bit into this. Like I advise people to avoid walking around alone with their cell phones out and yet I see people here do it from time to time BUT those people are residents of that zone so the zone is “safe” to that person but not safe to others.
It can be quite difficult when it comes to making recommendations in a situation like that but I will always do my best to help regardless.
Thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Don hooked me up to your channel, loved his interview with you so I'll be tuning in
I appreciate you taking the time to check it out and I hope you enjoy the content! 👏🏼
you guys have great chemistry on line. love y'alls collabs!
Always appreciate you checking out the content and giving the kind feedback, thank you! 👏🏼
Enjoyed the video. You guys make a great team!
It’s always a great time getting to work with Don and have these talks.
Thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
First time watching your channel. Good interview. I am a subscriber of Don's channel. thanks
I appreciate you taking the time to check it out! 👏🏼
I remember Jim Trotter. He was my shop teacher at Moore before he became the principal. Jim Plyler was the principal at the time.
THIS video I wanted, thanks GM and Don! great collab!
Glad you got value from it and thank YOU for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Don you nailed it on the head with leaving expectations behind, along with baggage, and having an open mind.
Great video! You guys provide valuable information in a most enjoyable and entertaining manner. I really appreciate the topic of this video along with your honest, realistic observations. Sadly, there are other expat RUclipsrs in Ecuador that sugar coat and misrepresent how things actually are in Ecuador. Well done gentlemen!
Thank you so much for your comment Richard!
It’s always a great time with Don and we’re glad to be able to help.
Hope we can keep being of assistance and thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Nice & interesting discussion . Kindly introduce Mr Shader is he a celebrity or an academician ?
I'm just a grumpy old Gringo that also happens to have a RUclips channel here in Ecuador. 🙂
Don is a superstar 😎
@@GMAceM Ok thanks 🙏 for the information.
Excellent podcast.
Appreciate you checking it out! 👏🏼
Amazon shipping fees to Ecuador
Order Summary
Items: $21.99
Shipping & handling: $33.39
Your Coupon Savings: -$2.20
Total before tax: $53.18
Estimated tax to be collected: $0.00
Order total: $53.18
Here an example of shipping to Quita, EC. No free prime shipping, LOL
Oh my goodness $33.39 shipping? Is that the norm? I always see that shipping in the states is free so if it’s $33 here then that’s quite a bit 😰
Hey, GM ACE, I really enjoy yours and Dons joint podcasts. You may not realize at times you two are entertaining funny. Adds alot to your more serious notes. Thanks for all the good information. Looking forward to you two, again. (ps. what I dont like about Ecuador is all the fried food! )
Hello B! Appreciate the kind words! I’m glad we can entertain and be informative, most of all it’s great to be able to help. Don will have a video up on his channel tomorrow so check it out if you get the chance! And as for the fried food, I guess you’ve got to bring some of your specialty dishes to share over here, non-fried of course.
Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM Thanks Ace. Yes, and to ask for enpanadas baked.... brings awareness for people wanting baked. They are very comon in Chile and Peru. I see more and more videos, people raving about Ecuador food. Thats a good thing. Thanks again. Keep up good work. (just watched your chocolate video. Cracked me up!!! ha ha)
If you think about the news and advertising industries, the first wants us angry and afraid; the second wants us to go buy stuff to escape the anger and fear. Empire's symbiosis!
For the short time that I was in Ecuador I noticed there was a lot of honking but the intention was different. There it means, "hey, I'm here and I'm passing' where live it means "get the heck out of my way!" Having said that, lanes mean nothing in Ecuador, especially in Manta. Rules, what rules?
I noticed the same thing when I was in Brazil. I would love to visit Equador. I would love to back to Brazil.
Great talk guys.
Thanks for listening! 👏🏼
Great channel! Followed you from Don’s channel. All these are great points but so much depends on your individual life experience.
If you’ve never left suburbia USA and come to Ecuador it’s probably a shock.
That wasn’t the case for me. I’ve lived and worked in over 40 countries, including all up and down West Africa.
Not much here bothers me.
Appreciate you taking the time to check it out!
Well said. The life each person lives will definitely influence how they see the new life their planning to make, that’s just how it’s going to be always.
And wow, 40 different countries! Which has been your favorite? Which has been the hardest to adapt to?
Thanks a ton for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM my favorite is Denmark. I loved Singapore as well. The hardest to adjust to was Gabon.
good chat with Don
It always is! Thanks for checking it out 👏🏼
There is a new Airport Terminal in Manta. Now they have direct flights to Galapagos Island as well as Panama 3 x per week. From Panama you can get direct flights to most places. Also ongoing flights to Cuenca.
To learn the state of the public hospitals was a shock.
Don hit the nail right square on the head for me with his assessment of what I like to call the "collective consciousness" in the U.S. Competitiveness is out of control to the point where people will do things that just don't enter into the minds of people in other parts of the world. It has promoted selfishness as a norm rather than an exception. This that I describe is the "problem" that I am running from. I can't think of a better way to solve it than to change my environment.
In Ecuador people are even more selfish than in the USA. I think Asia would be a better fit for you.
What I feel is that that mentality is slowly making its way over here. It’s either that or there are a few people who are just like that but I have seen Ecuadorian people talking about envy and being competitive. Posts and comments from people and such about how they have co-workers or “friends” who don’t want to teach them how to do things because they want to hog the knowledge for themselves.
I’ve had my fair share of backlash when trying to help English teachers with their English and they look at me like I’ve done something wrong or don’t want to listen to me. If that weren’t bad enough I’ve heard that that’s also why some people won’t accept you for the job, if you’re too good at it then they’re afraid of losing their job to you.
But these could just be isolated incidents and currently I can’t say I have the best idea of what people are like in the states since it’s been a while since I’ve last gone. I have great friends who still write to me to this day and we talk from time to time, Don himself is an awesome friend and it’s always great hanging with him, and I also recently gave a tour to someone from the states who’s also a great person. Maybe I’ve just been lucky to meet great people, who knows lol
But I digress, I definitely think it’s great that you look for alternatives. You certainly can’t change the people around you if they don’t want to change, but getting to see a different environment will give you more options and insight into a better life. Ecuador might literally be your paradise and I hope it is. The last thing I want is for anyone to be in a place that makes them unhappy.
Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Tu’ Pais, Tu’ Reglas. Simple as that. 😊☮️
Es verdad! 💯
Waiting for the next video from my 2 favourtie Ecuador stars. It is about all the positives why come to Ecuador.
I hope ACE will share this response - Don, I think you are too removed from the circumstances of the poor in the US who have no insurance and no medical care. Yes, public healthcare in Ecuador is lacking in toilet paper and soap, but at least the patient has doctors and nurses. You and I can afford good private insurance in Ecuador and have Medicare in the US, but many, many of the poor don't.
Hello Diana! I showed the message to Don yesterday. Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
Real US wages have been stagnant since 1973. Add to that a very diverse population that has difficulty understanding each other. The outcome is anger and disillusionment.
You nailed that one.
It sounds really tough over in the states. Similarly to the question I always ask myself and others in Ecuador, what do you think the US can do to make things better?
Yea the US is experiencing economic hardships among other problems, I follow a podcast with an extremally knowledgably macro economist and the predictions he makes for the US are not good, of course as any wise person would say there's no certainties only probabilities, but the probability that the US is going to fix it self anytime soon is very low.
We have a runaway debt problem, corrupt politicians, crooked corporations and list goes on.
@@GMAceM The population in the US first and far most would have to realize that their politicians and just most of the government in general is lying to them, they have to understand real economics like what's talked about by that channel I told you about, they'd have to understand the entire system of the US is used to support corporations and banks, not the everyday person, and then there would have to be grass roots movements to change it for the better.
@@GMAceM I really don't know. Not sure the US is salvageable.
Ace, I think you and Don do a great job enhancing the work of one another.
Thanks for including multiple language subtitles (Including SPANISH) in this video.
I'm Like # 173 for this episode/video.
If you're open to a small suggestion, would you consider
keeping the interview or table conversation videos to just one primary lens setting?
The frequent in and out zooms are attention grabbing, however can make it difficult for
a few in my family to look at the screen for more than a few minutes.
Thanks for your consideration.
Hello Pedro!
Always appreciate your comments and feedback.
I will try to limit the lens setting to minimal or no movement. The last video where I talked about healthcare I tested it and in terms of editing it does make it easier that’s for sure.
Thanks for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM Thanks for your response Ace. Es un placer escuchar, ver y aprender de una persona honesta en Ecuador.
To me, in Bogota, the 'fast food' is roast chicken because it is always ready , and it tastes so good I just don't care if it's healthy or not !! . .
I know this is a month old video but I just wanted to comment about us schools. I live and teach in Las Vegas. So many teachers will be leaving the field. I just retired and am looking forward to moving to Ecuador. Teachers are mistreated by students, by administration, and by parents.
First, thank you for your work as a teacher. I’m sad to hear how bad things have been for teachers in general and maybe one day things will be better and teachers will be appreciated. I definitely know what you mean by the mistreatment and it’s so sad because teachers are part of the foundation for everything but I think that constantly gets overlooked.
I hope your transition to Ecuador goes as smoothly as possible. Thanks for listening/watching!
Thank you. Since coming here I fell 6 times since coming to Ecuador. Lots of health problem, socials security was taken away so it is difficult.
Hey Ace, does Ecuador have a 5 day work week for most jobs or a 6 day work week?
Hello Hoppean!
I guess it depends on who you’re working for. The norm is 5 days for public institutions, schools and such but restaurants or small businesses are open 6-7 days a week. If they open all 7 days (like some bakeries/panaderías do) then at least one or two of those days they’ll close early but in other businesses (restaurants mainly) they’re open at least 6 days and if they’re big businesses then there will be shifts so different workers work different days, but if it’s a family business then uh oh. My dad is an example of that except he opens all week and only one day closes “not late”.
That's a good point, if you want ISS the "free" medical care in Ecuador as a resident you have to pay for it, only Ecuador citizens get it for free and even then not really as it's being paid for by their taxs, if they don't work I'm not sure they can get it either, maybe some exceptions are made for the elderly but again they already paid into it most likely.
I've heard a lot of people say crime is increasing in Ecuador and some Ecuadorians are moving abroad. I was in Quito, everything seemed okay during the daytime. During night, someone tried to rob me with a broken bottle. I was lucky that he didn't intend to hurt me and this was on a Ave 6 de Diciembre. Nothing was taken from me. How bad is crime really? On another occasion, I was pickpocketed for my phone and they took it. It really bothers me when people try to steal from me. Are there a lot of home invasions in Quito near Carolina Park?
First I’ll say that I’m sorry you had those things happen to you. I always try to inform as much as possible because I want to avoid these things happening to anyone but it’s hard because the conversation gets muddy when you hear the perspective of other people who don’t go through these things. (Long comment incoming)
I respect everyone’s opinion and I know a lot of people have the best time and don’t have anything bad happen to them (I will be talking to someone on my next podcast episode who had the best experience) but I will ALWAYS side with caution.
Now, to answer your question. From my perspective as a cautious person and hearing the things that happen here, it certainly has gotten worse than it was before. Petty crime has always been a thing (as you noticed firsthand) but in the recent years it’s escalated enough to the point where a once highly regarded as “safe” city as Quito is no longer completely safe. Are there safe areas? Of course, every city has them. Would I go out at night by myself in those safe areas? No, of course not because I am a cautious person. Not to jinx it but that’s also why I feel I haven’t been the victim to many of the things that happen, because I listen to what people have said and avoid going out late, am always on my motorcycle or in a vehicle, generally hang with someone when out and about, don’t have my valuables in an easy to reach place (pocket, bag or otherwise), leave fancy stuff at home, etc.
The majority of the really bad crime is “hit” related like I mentioned when Don interviewed me on his channel and home invasions seem really unlikely to happen because of how much people safeguard their houses. It’s not like the states where there’s a giant yard and people can walk up to your door, most of the time here there’s a ton of security like an electric fence or a gate or some kind of barrier here before being able to access the door (except in poorer parts of the city). I say this because when I once asked why no one has an open garden in front of their house they thought I was crazy lol and gave me that explanation.
Regardless, If I have the chance I’ll ask my cousin who’s in Quito about that situation but if I were living in a place similar to what I mentioned (with security such as an electric fence, gated community, or something) then I wouldn’t worry about home invasions, I’d be more concerned about petty crime or if I had a friend who was into really bad things (check the interview with Don to see what I mean by that).
I hope this helps! 👏🏼
I'm here because of Don the Gringo's channel and he talked about you
Thanks for checking it out!
i like the bitcoin payments that is legal now can you do a video about that plz nice video mate 😁
After watching several thousand first amendment audit videos, I have never seen one auditor harass anyone. If cameras frighten you, Ecuador is a good place to be.
I've been there a few times and yeah life there is different than in the US primarily what I noticed is a greater degree of individual freedom. There are fewer laws restricting people there. You're also more vulnerable to be stolen from there. Any native citizen will tell you that taking your eyes off anything is like relinquishing ownership. Ya gotta watch tap water too.
Driving appears to be more chaotic to the uninitiated. There's fewer traffic control devices. Lane markings are more of a suggestion. Speed bumps are all over. Bigger has the right of way there, the reverse of here. If you're stopped at a traffic light in the city, you'd better start moving as soon as it turns green or you might hear some insults!
The drivers are paying greater attention to their surroundings on average than here because the consequences for making a mistake are greater. For me it was thrilling to drive in Ecuador because of the competitive nature. Competent and assertive wins the day. It's a motorcycling paradise! (Outside of cities) I can't really imagine cars overtaking me on a motorcycle. I don't believe that's ever happened to me anywhere. Even in a car I rarely get overtaken. But I learned how to handle vehicles from a young age.
Another thing for me is that I wouldn't move to somewhere I couldn't speak the language competently. I know that's not "necessary" to survive, but I prefer to thrive. Getting lost in the culture is a big part of the thrill for me and I want to have real conversations with people.
A lot of reasons folks give for moving away from here are really city problems in this country. You get out in the country and people have a different mindset. Stuff they let slide in cities definitely won't fly out here where we're spread out and much more prepared to take care of ourselves. And we can get by on less. We spend more time with our kids and teach them more. In general we're more laid back but at the same time we don't suffer nonsense too easily.
It's sad to hear of the recent uptick of delinquency in Ecuador. They would do well to follow the lead of president Bukele. Hopefully they get a handle on the situation soon.
Blessings!
What a great comment, thank you for taking the time to write this all out!
One thing you definitely hit the nail on the head with is the taking your eyes off of things. People always feel they have to watch their things closely because if they don’t then it’ll be gone. Even in the stream I did recently someone mentioned having their bike stolen. People have told me that recently the theft in motorcycles has gone up again (you leave it parked and it’s gone when you come back). It is tough.
And speaking of motorcycles, it definitely is a great place to drive one, as long as you’re cautious with the random holes in the street lol
Language is one of those things that if you want to fully integrate with everyone, then you need to know it. The best way I know to learn it, is just to practice as much as you can with those who know it and who are willing to have the patience to help you learn it.
The discussion around Bukele is more on the side of not becoming like him, but as things gradually get worse I can see how people would definitely start to change their minds. The question is, is there anyone who can be like him in Ecuador and would the way Ecuador is ever permit something like this to happen? We will see.
Thanks again for the comment and thank you for listening/watching! 👏🏼
@@GMAceM
We were driving on the road between "la T" (the intersection where you turn east to go to Salitre from la puntilla) and Junquillal and the road had deteriorated to the point where everybody was crawling through baches at ten miles per hour, at this point I was jonesin' for having my XR650L there so I could cook that road at 60mph. I got some wide-eyed looks from primos when I told them that (like it was unbelievable but they'd seen me ride so they weren't totally doubting it).
This was in the time when Correa was doing obras on the main roads crossing the country, making them quite nice too, but the lesser used country roads were getting ignored and left to pot.
Porqué hablas mal del Ecuador.
Para mí todo mi país es hermoso, una bendición de Dios. Mientras otros admiran a Ecuador, tu hablas mal de Ecuador.
Maybe mention the holes in the road. I have had some flying experience on my moto with them. Especially the , as they say in Africa " sleeping policemen ".
Oh trust me I have. I made mention of them in my driving videos but I get the feeling a lot of people think I’m exaggerating. I literally almost fell in a hole about a month ago on a street that I frequent because I didn’t see it (car that was in front of me made it hard to see) and that hole hadn’t been there before. Worst part is that there’s no knowing when that hole will be patched. Of course it’s not on every street you’ll see them, but there are holes in a lot of places.
Great interview. Can you say what private health provider you signed up with since it sounds like a very good policy.
Thanks Roger
I have Humana, through Blue Box.
@@DonShader Hi Don; Thanks, we'll look them up when we settle in the city. Cheers Roger
Student get a pass in the USA also
You can't get "faster food" than eating the $3 hornado plate in the Cuenca market--and oh, so delicious! "McDonald's, bite me! And I say that in peace and love!"
The markets are always amazingly cheap and the food is so good! I’ve only heard one bad story from a friend (Ecuadorian) at the mercado but aside from that it’s always cheap and good food. I sometimes get my encebollado there!
I would Esther pay a cop 20 dollars which is what I usted to pay panamanian copa when I lived there than pay American systems when you're going to pay many times more if you go to court
In Hawaii people is friendly , they say hi or aloha to anybody .
That’s always great to hear/read. Nothing wrong with friendliness and kindness, it can really make a person’s day!
Maroc 🇲🇦👍👍👍❤
Haha, I'd come to Ecuador precisely because there's less traffic laws, I hope they don't change to much, maybe a little more regulation to stop people from weaving in and out of lanes cutting others off, that's not good, but I do so enjoy the freedom otherwise, and yes that also includes the freedom to have an open bottle of beer in the car.
Viva Ecuador!
Why would you want to drive and drink?
Freedom and careless disregard for traffic rules is not the same thing. Driving is a privilege, even here and anyone that feels like freedom is having the right to drive like an inconsiderate idiot without regard to others safety and right to travel is either a fool or ignorant.
@@DonShader There's matters of degrees to these things, for example, I don't condone recklessly going through a red light when there's alot of traffic, nor do I condone driving recklessly not considering those around you, HOWEVER what we have in the US is a situation where cops will fine you for going through red lights when there is no traffic, that I do not support at all, I do think you have to be considerate of others but when this creates laws so strict that it doesn't even allow you to pass in the right lane for example when the person in the left lane is being inconsiderate of others by driving to slow, that's a problem.
Police in the US fine you for very dumb things, and we have to ask our selves what are these laws really designed for, to keep people safe or just to fatten the pockets of politicians and bureaucrats, in the US it's certainly the latter and I hope Ecuador doesn't fall into the same trap from ignorant people like you trying to change the culture.
@@DonShader Oh one last thing I thought of, if you pay taxes for any significant time, 5 years, 10 years, whatever, then driving should not be a privilege, it should be a right!
No government should have the ability to take away your drivers license unless you have the unfortunate misfortune of becoming blind, in which case no you shouldn't be able to drive, but they should also refund a portion of your taxes, maybe around half of the amount that would have went specifically for roads, bridges and transit police.
@hoppeanofasgard1365 I tend to agree about the drivers license issue, if you pay for the roads, you should be able to drive on them indefinitely.
At least in Ecuador property and gasoline tax is much less though so at least it's not such an insult to your person if you ever got your license taken away and at least in Ecuador it's alot harder for them to take away your license.
yeah man, in the States fucking cops will find any stupid excuse to stop you and once you stopped they will keep looking to find something else to charge you for..
Here in texas you don't need a license to carry a gun anymore
That’s not good. Do you happen to know what the restrictions are if any? Like maybe age or not having a criminal record?
Same in Florida and West Virginia. In WV for years now. And it is safe as before. Nothing has changed. Probably more safe.
This guys from the loan star state, he's generalizing TX with the US, I'm from IL , it ain't open n carry here buddy
Yes Ace. But that type of punishment was basically in Catholic Schools back in the day. They can't do that, or any corporal punishment, today.
Very true. I’m not exactly team “mega harsh punishment”, I just think there has to be consequences somewhere for what’s happening because clearly when there aren’t consequences, things only get worse before they come close to getting better. Or, the problem has to be eliminated at its core, and that’s definitely at home. A good education at home can at least mitigate what they will become once they leave the house. Having good values will help them make better decisions out on the street. But parents have to take action and teach their kids these things.
@@GMAceM Yes there needs to be. I think, at least in the States, they need to restore type of corporal like Don got and even myself on occasion. Once they took that out of schools the students got much worse (about 10x). Also parents need to take violent video games away from the kids.
Good lord
Gossip?
Out
I think a very good subject on videos with you guys would be the difficulties involved with easy air travel to and from Manta and Cuenca from many locations in the US and Canada requiring extra long stopovers, which is an obstacle to people who travel frequently or for older people.
Book a hotel room near the airport and just relax or explore the area
@@luisdetomaso867 That doesn't address the travel problem. Or having to hang around ...
@@dovygoodguy1296 Ecuador is not a wealthy country and air travel is a rare luxury there, hence the few available flights per day. If you require more convenience, then perhaps it would be better to remain in the first world with it's more abundant amenities
@@luisdetomaso867 The issue is no different in Nicaragua, Colombia or anywhere else. The issue is not a lack of flights but that they aren't direct from North America.
@@dovygoodguy1296 I'm not trying to be a jerk here but you keep bringing this up, even on my channel. We, nor anyone else in SA can solve this problem for you. Most people that I know just grinned and bore. It's not easy but once you get here, you're here and you can focus on other things. Do you have any other questions you'd like us to answer?
Dont be so gullible.. New York, Chicago and California where most foreigners go are not great places or a good example of the rest of the US. What Don said that people are not friendly in the US and would not wave is untrue. Ecuadorians are as bad. Don also blocks anyone that disagrees with him yet criticizes Amelia and JP and says people in the US are angry? He needs to take a look in the mirror. Many foreigners here are here because they had issues in the US. Don is no different.
Japan is financially better equipped plus their buildings actually sway during an earthquake which greatly reduces damage. All Ecuador leaders need to do is hire a few engineers/contractors from Japan to oversee the construction of new buildings and at the same time train their Ecuadorian counterparts to do it. However, this could increase the cost of real estate to increase by double.
I really must disagree maybe you lived in a bad area. We
Have no problem with people in the States when ever I say hello I always 99% of the time get a hello back. We don't have a student/ Teacher problem in the state of Florida
Sounds horrible down there, ill just stay here in the good old US of A
No hay peor lasca que la del mismo palo 😢
Two ways to move aboard: 1) leave the spit-of-a-village and start a new life; or 2) bring the spit-of-a-village with you and be miserable.
Kids can’t read a book when they are all being banned!!! Like in what’s going on in Florida!!!!
They are not All being banned. Just the ones intentionally Grooming.
Thankfully, Florida has an excellent Governor.
We need more governors like the one in Florida.