This video was brought to you in part by Apartamentos Otorongo in Cuenca, Ecuador. They offer affordable, furnished rental apartments. The property is located on the beautiful Tomebamba River and is walking distance from downtown markets, banks, the migration office, restaurants and entertainment. Happily run by the owners. Pets are welcome. Special discounts available when you book directly through hotelotorongo.com/. Tell them Amelia And JP sent you!
Beautiful, intelligent cool couple. I really enjoy your videos and they are so intuitive. May the good Lord continue to bless you both, you have a new subscriber!!
It looks like you filmed Oloncito beach and Montanita’s chapel in the background. I lived in that beach for 3 years. I’m from Puerto Rico and lived there many years ago and I agree it is a wonderful place to live...enjoy!
I emigrated from England to live in Colombia 2 years ago. You should definitely check out Colombia. Despite the bad press that it gets I've seen more violence and crime on the streets of England than I ever have here. TV programmes like Narcos don't help. Most of the plus point you make about living in Ecuador also apply to Colombia, with the exception of the currency. I just do rough calculations for converting from COP to £ (GBP). Take off the thousands then divide by 4. Not so hard. I've not visited Ecuador, but it's on my list of places to visit, once the pandemic has calmed down.
That sounds great but you got to remember there's crime everywhere in the world and the media makes Mexico look bad saying there's a bunch of stuff that goes on when it's the about the same as the crime in the United States or anywhere else in the world but maybe I could get my fiance in Mexico through live with me to Ecuador
It looks great but you got to remember the media makes Mexico look bad by saying that there's a lot of crime when it's about the same crime as the United States and plus I got my fiance in Mexico so maybe I could convince her to move to Ecuador with me and if I can't I will stay in 🇲🇽 Mexico because she lives in Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico right now but she was born in Acapulco, MEXICO
> Sometimes i feel the ecuadorians don't appreciate how beautiful their country is. They do, but when life is a struggle through poverty, politics, corruption, mismangement the people tend to focus on the immediate issues at hand.
Paul you are correct, we Ecuadorians do not appreciate the how beautiful our country is, I live in NY but I go every two years to visit the family and all I do is travel. Just waiting for my KIDS to be lil older and go to the Amazon. GOD bless you and your family, VIVA ECUADOR!
You’re partially right my friend, we don’t usually appreciate it but I will say it’s because of the fact that we grew up in this environment and also probably because we think about more serious topics like crime and all that stuff. BUT at the end of the days we love our country, with its ups and downs
well we love our country but the people get tired of corruption, high level taxes compared to the minimum an average salary, is very difficult to import something and the industries are very underdeveloped so is very difficult to start a commerce, and usually here you live to work instead of work to live, so for a foreign ecuador is amazing because usually they move here when they want a cheap retirement, so problems like save money, low opportunities of jobs, job´s stress, sustain a family, education for the sons, etc... are not a problem, but for a local these are big problems
Man this country isn’t that good, yeah it’s cheap to live here, but it still is a 3rd world country plagued by corruption, poverty, unemployment, etc. expats love it here because it’s dirt cheap, it’s beautiful and nice for tourism yeah but most Ecuadorians don’t have good income to have a decent life, Healthcare isn’t as good as they say in the video, it’s free but overloaded so unless you are literally dying you have to wait months for a turn to see a doctor, just get a private insurance. anything that is imported, specially technology, is super expensive, if you work with tech and anything breaks, good luck, because it’ll cost a lot to import hardware.
As an ecuadorian I can say that we love foreing people, who loves our country, so welcome. I would like to share your videos with spanish subtitles, So we can feel pride of what we have
Dear John, I can't belive that I found you here..! I was reading the coments and I saw your picture..! After to see this video I fell like I love my country even more.
John, from what I can see after watching many videos, Ecuador is a country to be proud of. I sincerely hope to come there one day, learn the language, the customs, and the culture and be a part of it. I have never wanted to leave the U.S. until I started learning about Ecuador.
My dad built a pipeline over the Andes mountains in ‘69 - 71 in Ecuador. It was the most logistically challenging pipeline in history at the time. I have always wanted to travel there and just see his work. I conducted his funeral in Texas and after the funeral pipe-liners approached me who had been in Ecuador to service the pipeline stated that they could not imagine how he did it. Thanks for your video and I hope to visit some day.
I never thought about moving to Ecuador, but I did make a pleasant business trip there a couple of years ago. We met with our client in Guayaquil, then drove across the mountains to visit his customer in Cuenca. What a drive! I never thought I would see the tops of the clouds unless I was in an airplane! Of course, we drove through El Cajas National Park to get there, stopping at Tres Cruces for a few minutes (it was pretty cold) and while there we saw a condor soaring overhead! We met with the customer in Cuenca, then had a nice lunch at a local "mom & pop" restaurant. I had never tried cuy before, but I enjoyed it. The drive back was just as scenic. I rarely get to do much sight-seeing on my business trips, but this entire trip was almost a vacation! I envy you two!
If that was me I will make like 20 stops...🤣🤣🤣...ille I use to do here when we went on trips. And our dream was to move to the mountains, and my heart wrecks, my husband passed away 2 years ago.
I hope we, Ecuadorians, could build a better country to let our people to enjoy our country as much as you do, thank you for remind us that our country is beautiful even with it's problems.
That's wild that the Natives of the land can't enjoy their land as much as foreigners who are descendants from colonizers that stole the land. Hmm hmm hmm they seem like nice folks though.
Roughly 7% of Ecuadorians self-identify as indigenous. The rest are of Spanish descent. If you go back far enough, we're all colonizers except for native Africans.
@@AmeliaAndJP it's a funny concept if you think about it. 7% identify themselves as indigenous, but I will say they identify not just as racially indigenous but also culturally indigenous, because a high percentage of the Ecuador population is indigenous, but is not cuturally indigenous they lump themselves as mestizo as they've integrated to the mestizo culture. I'd say Ecuador's indigenous (native american) population is 30%, 60% mestizo (half Spanish and native American) 6% European (white) and 4%black.
@kill kykes not really. There are to this day pure native Americans. One side of my family is 100 purely native American (Inca) and I can confirm that by dna test
Hola.! ☺️👋🏻 Bienvenidos a mi Ecuador 🇪🇨 ❤️ 🙏🏻 Los encontré por casualidad y son muy agradables personas. Infinitas gracias por haber elegido quedarse y dejar en alto el nombre de mi país. Les deseo todo lo mejor, el tiempo que deseen quedarse. Dios los bendiga.! 🙏🏻 ❤️ 😘 😘
I'm an ecuadorian living in NY and super ready to come back to my beautiful country to live there my retirement, just waiting for the pandemia get over. I was ready to leave six months ago. And, I didn't have to do a research, my country it just what you guys founded out. Thank you for choose Ecuador.
@Hector - Smart move! New York is a mess now. I’m only 40 minutes away from NYC. I have a home in Costa Rica for the past ten years and can’t wait to retire in three more years so I can relocate there. I hope to also visit Ecuador one day, I’ve heard wonderful things.
Hello hector Im also in nyc. I don't know but I have a thing for women of your country. Most of my friends are always visiting the same spot Santo Domingo, Puerto Rico and now they into Colombia. I want something different and wholesome. Will I experience any racism being that im a man of color? Spanish is my first language by the way.
I have been living in Ecuador for 5+ years now...I live in Vilcabamba (which is very far to the south) and is in the Andes Mountains - elevation about 5 thousand ft. - where the temperature is ALWAYS (year round) around 70 degrees F. and virtually no 'seasonal change'. When considering and researching where to live I placed emphasis on a country that was still very much an Agrarian culture which provides an amazing abundance and variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, at very, Very affordable prices, and no GMO produce. Yes, I still miss my homeland of the USA, but spending almost 70 years in America, this is to be expected; however, being totally reliant on my social security income, I live very comfortably, especially considering I have married a Wonderful Ecuadorian woman with a 12 year old son. Viva Ecuador!!!
@@nesq4104 That's difficult to answer because it depends on many factors: how many people to support; where you want to live in Ec; what type of lifestyle you want, etc. A very big Savings is usually in housing - we have a 3 bdm/2 and 1/2 baths, all hand laid hard wood floors, granite counter tops, etc. and pay $300 per month - many, many factors to consider.
@@dutchfuscaldo5344 I appreciate the information. I'm pretty frugal and never lived the high life. 300 monthly for that sounds excellent coming from NYC. So hypothetically would 700 USD monthly provide a descent lifestyle for 1 to 2 people in a good area? That would include food, housing, utilities and going out occasionally?
@@nesq4104 That's going to be a bit tough, and there is going to be a difference in spending depending on 1 or 2 people (you both have to eat!). Also, our $300 rent is for an Unfurished apt. Yes, you probably can find a 'furnished' apt. for as little as $200 - but I wouldn't live there! Probably 1 person on $700 can 'survive', I say 'Survive'...but is that how you want to live???
VEFALI TÜRK_06 Actually I would say the pandemic is worse in USA at this moment. Ecuador has more or less controlled the pandemic. Pretty much everyone wear a mask.
I visited Ecuador a few years ago and loved it there. I had lived in Spain as a child so I remembered a little Spanish, but after about 3 weeks I had no problem in communicating with the people in their own language. I spent a few days in Guayaquil and found it a lovely city. I was warned it is best to be off the streets by 9 pm as there was an issue with petty crime. I spent the bulk of my time in Cuenca, which I loved, and also Vilcabamba. Cuenca reminded me of the Spain I used to live in which no longer exists. I found the people there to be very friendly and there is also a huge ex-pat community there. One thing to understand for Americans, Ecuador is not the US. They do things differently down there. I once saw a man mowing a soccer field with a weed wacker and wondered why he didn’t use a lawnmower. The reason is lawnmowers are expensive and labor is cheap. If you expect Ecuador to be like the US, you will be disappointed, but if you embrace the culture, you will love it there.
Gosh guys! When "we"moved to Ecuador....my husband was finishing up some useless oral Chemo drugs, and amongst the regular crap he was taking...was Morphine 3X/day! We had never had marijuana, and found a source for edibles! The CBD butter turned out to be THE BEST thing for him! He got completely off pain meds for his cancer after moving to Ecuador! This made his last years the best they could have ever been! 💖
Thanks for sharing! I had never tried Mary Jane before my surgeries. It's a miracle drug! The side effects from the prescription drugs took away my will to live. I woke up in the middle of the night once and had know idea who I was, where I was or who Amelia was. It took several days before I felt "love" for her again. She was a stranger to me! That was the most terrifying part of my recovery. She suggested I try edibles and they worked almost immediately. I was off all the other horrible, addictive pharma drugs within days and I stopped using the edibles a month later. Sometimes when my back really hurts, I eat some but I haven't had any in almost a year. It's completely absurd that it's illegal, and even more so that it's classified as a Schedule 1 equivalent to Heroin. So much suffering caused by so much corruption.
ANTONIO ESCOBAR JP’s experiebce with back surgeries is very different than mine. Maybe he can help. I simply had three surgeries that removed ruptured didks, boney spurs and one small mingeoma tumor. The last surgery went wrong, and punctured the spinal cord, loosing all my spinal fluid, so i didntget the fusion i needed.( all in the U.S.) Im trying to live without more surgeries. Just copewith the arthtitic pain
I love Ecuador. It is such a beautiful country, and the people are so warm and welcoming. I sponsor a girl there through Compassion International and was able to meet her for the first time in 2017 when I went on a sponsor tour. The tour was based in Quito, but we did visit some other areas, including the rainforest. The sponsored children were bused in to Quito from various parts of Ecuador to meet their sponsors. I returned to Ecuador with Compassion International last year, and this time we were based in Guayaquil. We visited some other areas, including Manta and Isla de la Plata. The ocean views on Isla de la Plata were stunning. I am now sponsoring another girl in Ecuador and two children in Peru and one in Kenya, and I hope to go back to Ecuador next year when the two girls that I sponsor graduate from the program.
What I like about your videos is that they are to the point and succinct. You don't beat around the bush. You provide information efficiently. You are genuine and it is easy to say you are very good people. Bless you.
I spent christmas break 2017 in Olon , and walked the beach, where you recorded this video, everyday! I had a dejavu on the first scene trying to process that you were on the Olon beach. I have to agree with all your reasons for living in Ecuador. Especially in Olon.
I'm a retired Canadian living in Medellin, Colombia. City has a permanent spring climate, very pleasant, very good exchange rate to Can dollar, almost every North American food product is available here. Absolutely gorgeous country for scenery ! Never regretted coming here for retirement.
I passed the link to your video(s) to a friend who is looking for a place to visit and may move to. Very informative and I enjoy your optimism for the country in general and for life in particular. Thanks for your videos and sharing your knowledge and wishing you Muy Buena Suerte en sus nuevas aventuras en Equador.
I love your video. I lived in Ecuador 10 years ago, but the reason I left was because the crime was getting out of control. I was mugged at knife point at 7:00 am while getting off the tram to walk to my teaching job. Granted, that was in Quito, but it got to the point where even my Ecuadorian students were afraid to sit in the park, as they were also the targets of crime. It may be different now, I don't know. But I did love living there so much. The beauty, the mountains, the lovely people who speak Spanish so clearly. It really is a gorgeous country.
I'm 62, fortunately in very good health, avid hiker, mountain biker and backpacker. I have some money and truthfully I just want out of the u.s. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. I never thought of Latin America as a retirement location, mainly due to lack of research on my part and the generally negative stereotypes. I think Ecuador is worth taking a good look at. I have relatives in Australia and I could easily move there, but was surprised at though they promote a welcoming demeanor, how blatant they were about age discrimination even though I possess a masters degree. Have fun! Be safe.
Hello thanks for the video. I’m 67 year old man. I also just want out. I have been single now for six years. What are prospects for finding a compatible mate. I’m in good health and shape, not rich but not in debt either.
I liked your 10 reasons and fully agree! However, I couldn't believe you didn't mention the WONDERFUL weather! I live in Quito and the weather is the #1 reason I've stayed for ever 8 years. No AC. No heat. People in the US can't even imagine it!!!!
Im glad you guys really studied all your options and not just throw a dart on a world map. Your reasons were excellent. Not only a beautiful couple but a smart one!
I live in England...and i come from Ecuador...i miss my Beautiful Country and my people so much...and my delicious food...can wait to come back one day...you too are so lucky...God bless...
Folks, do not overthink your decision to move to a foreign country. people moved from Europe without making a test visit ... today you can do much research online. If you have a sense of adventure and are unhappy where you are ... then take the plunge and move. For me, money was tight. I just could not visit countries and learn first-hand what the likes and dislikes were. I think your success is to have an open mind. accept your new country. Do not moan and cry and try to change the new country into the country you are leaving ... after all, you do not like where you are now.
Good advice, Frank Miller. For one month, I stayed with a friend who retired in Ecuador. What a sewer! Got robbed the 2nd day in Quito. Soiled toilet paper in the trash cans in the restroom stinks. On the coast, we ran out of water twice, and electricity failed 3 times. Yes, things are inexpensive, so is pitching a tent in the US. I spend a summer in Málaga and a year in Madrid. Oh sooo much better. Of course, it costs the same as living in the US, but you are safer there. It's up to you.
I have always been a very adaptable type person; "Adapt or Die by the side of the road" has been my philosophy. I love adventure and new cultures; I come with open arms. I love all people; everywhere. We are excited about our last Hurrah - the move to Ecuador or Panama; either one sounds lovely...but am leaning more towards Ecuador.
I learned a LOT from this video about Ecuador! I have never been to South America, but I'm thinking about visiting Ecuador first. I was considering about moving to Costa Rica because of people, food, safety, and natural beauty; yet, the heavy rainfall does make me wonder if it would be worth it. Now, Monteverde is a place I could see myself living in Costa Rica as I enjoyed my time in the Costa Rica rainforest. Even so, your reasoning about moving Ecaudor has intrigued me such as the country using the US dollar. I appreciate this video and look forward learning more about your time in Ecuador! Thank you!
I visited Ecuador from January 1st to July 7th in 2020. I had traveled around the whole world before my arrival (February through December of 2019). Before my journey, I read alot, joined a world traveler's online group, watched numerous videos to create my itinerary. Afterward, my gut instinct (due to my personal preferences) considered Cuenca, Ecuador as my (likely) first choice to live (and retire one day). Therefore, I saved the "best for last" on my trip. That being said, I was not disappointed for all of the reasons that you mentioned (and more!) in your top 10 list. FYI. My second choice was and is Ljubljana, Slovenia. Thanks, Amelia & J. P., for your great videos!
The secret to an early retirement is to find a location where your cost of living is 1/4 to 1/3 the cost of living where you currently reside and secondly is to have an incredibly favorable exchange rate. This is why my wife and I have decided on Colombia. Come and visit us in Pereira, Colombia when we can travel again!
@@mynickname4884 The really bad earthquake was in Armenia which is 1-1/2hr drive from Pereira. When we built our house in Cerritos, we paid for a seismic study and designed the foundation accordingly. Our house in Cerritos is 2 stories with two suites on the top floor and 2 bedrooms on the main floor. We loved living in Medellin. Our condo was in El Poblado in Edificio Blux but all our family is in Manizales, Anserma, Cali...so now we are close to family yet still far enough away!
Another key is find a job that will give you a lifetime pension and allow you early retirement. Then work like an animal for 25 years and bail with no regrets when you're still young.
I'm a retired Canadian living in Itagui, South Medellin. Medellin is a great city, you can find almost every product available in North America, great weather, good exchange rate to Canadian dollar and great restaurants. Never regretted moving here.
@@davidkroll4360 Hi David, my name is Jacques and I would like to hear more from you in regards to living in Colombia. It's reputation was bad in the 80's and 90's and wanted to hear your impressions as I am going to be retiring soon and I want to live somewhere modern and affordable. Plus I am tired of winter and the North American politics of BS although that's pretty well everywhere. We currently live in Toronto and I do speak Spanish (lost a bit along the way, lol) and fluent English and French. We are considering going to Spain or Portugal but want to hear about Latin America (Colombia, Ecuador etc... , cost of living, weather, the people, etc...... I am doing a lot of research as the pandemic really screwed the whole world over as we were planning on visiting the countries that would be on our short list. We do live a healthy lifestyle so the importance of gyms and healthy foods are some of the priorities that are a must. My email address is jjconstantin@gmail.com and I do hope to hear from you soon. Take care. Jacques
I plan to retire to Ecuador and know some people down there. COVID has prevented the move (have sell my farm and reduce dog numbers to good homes) but as soon as things open up I will make the move. Most of the reasons are same as JP and Amelia with one added of the higher population of Indigenous people (I'm half Cherokee). I'm really looking forward to the move!
Darlene Cannon i lived awhile in Cotacatchi, a little North of Quito. There, and the towns around, like Otovalo, have a rich culture of Indigenous! Very proud, many proffessionals! The culture pervades the small, every day things of life, which made the experience tranquil and beautiful in manh, many ways!
That's great! Compared to the US, Ecuador treats indigenous people very well. The treatment could be better, especially for those in the Amazon, but we like how everyone lives together in the same areas. There is no separation/isolation like in the US. We could learn so much from other countries.
My wife and I have had a place in Colombia for 10 years now! We lived in Medellin but now have a House in a Secured Condominium Complex in Cerritos by Pereira. You would be welcome to come visit us when we are able to travel there again. Currently we are in Calgary, Alberta.
Coastal weather are doing wonders for both of you!!!!! Gorgeous Emília glows and JP looks so refreshed ‘n relaxed. No chance of missing the Cuenca weather. Although meself partial to the mountains and greenery surrounding the Andean valleys Keep up the great work and blessings for both!!!! 💞🇪🇨♥️
I lived in Costa Rica for a year. The rainy season is awesome. The most beautiful skies after the daily rain showers (which only last about 5-10 minutes). Rainy season brings light rains and I don't recall any storms.
It can raín hard in CR. We call the storm's aguaceros. But they are dramatic and awesome displays of nature. Hard to find a Tico who complains about the rain.
I really enjoyed this video. You all talked about a lot of the places that I have researched and eliminated for almost the same reasons that you did. I have narrowed my choices down to Boquete and Cuenca and will have to make a visit to both places to make the final decison. I'm actually leaning a lot more towards Ecuador, but Boquete is still very much in the running. Thank you so much for sharing so much great information with us, you all are living your best life!
Very well said..what is great for them, maybe not so for others, plus Ecuador have their problems also, there is not a perfect paradise on this planet..regards
I chose to move to Costa Rica in 2014. The weather is amazing up in the mountains here. No complaints! Glad to be away from the riots and craziness of the USA!!!
Yeah, the weather here in Costa Rica varies depeding on the area. It doesnt really rain 6 months a year straight. It only rains really hard from august until the first week of november and even so, you get rain 3 or 4 days a week during 2 month and even during the wet season you get 2 or 3 days of sun.
@ Brian Thompson... Omg Costa Rica is not as good as u make it seem.. I was there and had to move because I hated it... it's a horrible Country i prefer Brazil, Chile and Ecuador my favorite beautiful Countries 😛
We just retired and are looking to leave US we were thinking of panama but Ecuador sounds great but w travel restrictions? Do you have to take c vaccine? I was hoping to travel in 2020 but those plans were dashed and it doesn't look like 2021 will be any better
I hope you are ok guys, nice to hear that you like Ecuador, regarding your reason 6 , You forgot the Galápagos, I have gone there and is a beautiful place You have to go there at least once, greetings from Quito.
I think of Chile my grandfather was from the U.S. my grandmother was from Australia my father was born in Chile due to the fact my grandfather was a mining engineer back in the late 1800's through the 1900's until his death in 1958. He helped on the copper mines in Chile thus my father was born there.Chile is the polar opposite of California.
@Justin Stewart Some Latin American cities are located at a higher elevation where it's not very humid at all. If I ever immigrated there I would choose one of those cities to live in.
Thank you for the inspiring words, learning about south America, watched a lot of Mexico and thought Merida would be a good spot, never knew about this spot
Thank you so much for the update. When I’ve been looking for a new place to move to from Thailand I saw many benefits and pluses in Ecuador. It is very encouraging to have them verified by yourselves after having moved there and experienced the life there. Thanks so much 👍😊
I am so happy that I just found you Unconventional Kids. Happy (belated) Birthday, Amelia! And Happy YT Anniversary to you both!! Thank you for sharing your experiences in Cuenca. I love your open-mindedness and the adventurous spirit. Thank you for your honesty and willingness to share the whole picture of your life in Ecuador. I really love the fact that you both have phenomenal communication skills. I have Liked, Subscribed, and rung the bell , and now I'm watching all your past videos. The Tropics are calling me and speaking fluent Spanish is on my bucket list, so I am looking forward to all your future videos.!! You are both so awesome!
I'm from Ecuador, I live in Ecuador. When you said good health care I was a bit confused. You might be going to private hospitals. But if you rely on public health care (which is what most people rely on), it's horrible :c Still, I'm glad that you're able to get good Healthcare here. And I'm super glad that you are enjoying living in my country. I love my country. 💜💜
They clearly said that they live in a $2000 a month budget for two people, the average Ecuadorian family is 4 people and their budget is $500 a month that is why they are clueless about real healthcare in Ecuador. They are clearly speaking to foreigners with big budgets .
@@slopez7091 yeah I know. The minimum wage is $425 a month, and it's not enough to cover the basic needs of a family. And a lot of people don't even earn minimum wage and have to rely in odd jobs. But I know they are talking to foreigners, and that's okay. That's why I said I feel happy that they are enjoying living here and have a good health care here :)
How does it work with private hospitals/healthcare in Ecuador? Do they only serve foreigners, not native Ecuadorians? If you are a native Ecuadorian and have an accident and need emergency, care can you go to private hospital if it is the nearest hospital?
@@jpny4750 they do serve native people. The thing is that it may be cheap for someone that's lived in the US most of their lives, but for us it is very expensive. So most people use public hospitals. Everyone can use the private ones, it's just that it is expensive for us.
@@jpny4750 and yes, for an emergency you can go to the nearest hospital, doesn't matter if it's a private or public one. Though most people would got to one that their insurance can cover, if they have that.
I always liked the way you introduce my country with an excellent background ever, which is easy to appreciate. I really hope you are enjoying all and each reason that you described here and Ecuador can will give you back the same love with wich you refer to it 🇪🇨❤ Xoxo from Argentina 💙🇦🇷
I visited Colombia a few years back and found it to be beautiful. Our group (a choir) was careful about our safety and we were led by a local. The people we encountered were anxious for tourism and were SO welcoming! Go visit!!
I am loving your videos! Like you, I'm a transplant to Ecuador from Colorado. I left the US for all the reasons you mentioned in one of your videos, and I chose Ecuador for all the reasons you mentioned in another video. I've been in Cotacachi for a little over four months now, and I love it. No regrets about moving. If you're ever in the neighborhood, look me up, and we'll have almuerzo together. Thanks again for your terrific videos.
I found this simply by accident. For years I've wanted to go to Ecuador to live but was unsure how I would do this. Not sure what I would do for work. I guess I need to research what I may be able to do remotely or what is available there. Now it's back on my radar. Thanks for this.
Gracias por elegir nuestro país, me encanta sus videos es muy interesante la opinión que tiene los extranjeros del país y también puedo seguir aprendiendo sobre el idioma inglés. Saludos desde Quito.
I lived in Ecuador for several years, did study abroad there, agree with everything you say and could add more reasons too. Climate is great, for one thing.
Hola hola. I am doing extensive research about relocating there. The cost of living in NY is very outrageous.i think I could get more milage out of my dollars in Cuenca. Love your videos.
You will love Cuenca. Produce and everything you need for the week you will find it in a very low price. I hope you can make a good decision. You'll love Ecuador
Wow!! Very informative video!! I’ve been thinking of moving out of the US for a while now, so, this video truly gives me hope and encouragement!! Thank you!!
I was born in the US but i lived my whole life in Ecuador, its the most amazing country ive ever been to, the people are amazing, the food is delicious ❤️, I currently live on the US but i will travel there soon
Great overview of why you chose Ecuador! We're currently living in Nicaragua due to the pandemic and we're looking at other options for our next place as it looks like it's going to be hard to get back to our home country of Australia for a while. Ecuador seems like a great option!
Great video! I am planning on moving to Ecuador as soon as I get my Temporary Visa. I have been there 3 times and can confirm what was said in this video. Especially the part about no one having change for $20 bills :-). One thing that should be mentioned is that you probably SHOULDN"T move to Ecuador if you need to find a job there. The Covid-19 pandemic and low crude prices globally has hurt their economy a lot. Government employees all had to take a pay cut.
I am hopefully going to Colombia in January. I've done a lot of research on the entire country, and from what I can tell it is beautiful. The people are super nice. The living is cheap. Might be my final destination upon retirement. A lot of Americanos in Colombia.
This kind of videos make me really proud of being ecuadorian, I appreciate you chose my dear country to live the rest of your lives. You are such a beautiful couple and i really hope you guys spend a great time in here. Blessings ( PS. the mister looks like a Jeff Brigdes' Brother XDD )
I stayed in Costa Rica for a couple weeks. The advantage I saw there is you can choose the climate that suits your taste. Sea level is hot and humid, but you can move up in altitude to where the average year around temperature is around 62 to 68 degrees. No need for heat or air conditioning. Of course you won't be on the beach, but in the mountains the weather is more to my liking. So I would never rule out Costa Rica, since I'm not very much of a beach person anyway.
It sounds similar to Ecuador, there you can also choose different weathers depending on the altitude you choose, you can go to the beach, mountains, or Amazon jungle in very few hours.
Ecuador es un país de brazos abiertos, pero espero que los que quieran venir sepan cuidarlo y apreciarlo porque es mi país, y no vengan a contanimar ni a dañarlo.
I've always considered moving to Ecuador. I never thought that my job would let me work remotely from there. Now days I think they would since I have been working remotely for 4 years. I'd love to move there since I married an Ecuadorian citizen. She misses her family but most of all misses her profession, which requires extensive schooling and getting a dental license here. I 'm seriously considering the move now even though we own a home here in the US.
I retire in 4 years and we are starting to look at where we will live in retirement and Ecuador is in our top four choices. Looking forward to learning about it from your videos.
I don’t even need to watch the whole video. I just read the title and my finger moves instantly to the like button! Thank you for choosing my beautiful country! I hope you live a full and happy life in my native land! I just subscribed to your channel! Greetings from NYC! 🇺🇸🇪🇨
We made the move to Ecuador and don't regret it. We are sticking it out through the pandemic. We missed our summer visit back to the US, but we'll survive here. Our reasons were very similar to Amelia and JP after visiting other countries first. (Uruguay was tops, but a little too far away) The people in Ecuador are wonderful and patient, not having to convert money is great. The cost of living is amazing. And, you can choose if you want to live among expats or not. We don't, but that's not for everyone. It looks like they are in Olon, great little town, I love the beach there - among one of the best in Ecuador.
We live in Puerto rico and we have been trying to figure out where to move as well ecuador and colombia are both on our list. However what taxes are expats having to pay what about healthcare insurance? What meds in the us can't you get there??
I suggest that you NOT eliminate Costa Rica as a valuable home. They obviously didn't search out the central plateau which maintains a 75-80 degree temperature throughout the year. I was there in 1980 for 3 months and went back in "81 for another 2 months . I spent my time in Alajuela ( loved it ) but also traveled throughout the country. If you want hot just go to the coastal beaches. It is a gorgeous Democratic Repunlic.
@@bbobrm i've known someone from costa rica for 30 years and it wasn't till about a month ago that an ex-pat convinced me that costa rica is hot and humid, and actually prefers the cold frosty winters of vancouver (i despise the winters here). he's also spent time in mexico and spain, and is very fluent in english, and helps translate for his construction co-workers. the time difference aspect compared to europe also made sense.
@@sandraduncan4372 On my research you do have to file US taxes (If you're an American) but only pay taxes on anything above 104K... Ecuador only pay taxes on income over 12k.(And I don't think pension is considered income)
Thanks for your informatiom and video, I visited for 12 days in Dec. and wasn't long enough. I loved it and definitely thinking of taking the plunge and relocationg to Ecudaor. I also have been considering many of the same countries you ran through. I meant to be an ex-pat but have been living back in U.S. a long time. I have taken a few long trips trying to figure out my next move. Meanwhile i'm stuck in Florida for the time being.
Great! this is amazing, keep making this content to attract foreigners. I live in Quito and can say most positive things about Ecuador. Keep travelling, Ecuador as small as it looks has wonders to see. Move north, Quito and Ibarra are amazing and the climate is way better. I consider myself local, a honest tip Quito has the best Spanish from all 3 major cities. I'm Swiss and Ecuador, like all countries has its pros and cons but it has way more pros than cons, a so underrated country with so much of rich experiences. We have lost many tourist during the years and its a shame because it has so much to show. Keep making this content don't let the cons fool you its a wonderful country.
This video was brought to you in part by Apartamentos Otorongo in Cuenca, Ecuador. They offer affordable, furnished rental apartments. The property is located on the beautiful Tomebamba River and is walking distance from downtown markets, banks, the migration office, restaurants and entertainment. Happily run by the owners. Pets are welcome. Special discounts available when you book directly through hotelotorongo.com/. Tell them Amelia And JP sent you!
Beautiful, intelligent cool couple. I really enjoy your videos and they are so intuitive. May the good Lord continue to bless you both, you have a new subscriber!!
It looks like you filmed Oloncito beach and Montanita’s chapel in the background. I lived in that beach for 3 years. I’m from Puerto Rico and lived there many years ago and I agree it is a wonderful place to live...enjoy!
I emigrated from England to live in Colombia 2 years ago. You should definitely check out Colombia. Despite the bad press that it gets I've seen more violence and crime on the streets of England than I ever have here. TV programmes like Narcos don't help. Most of the plus point you make about living in Ecuador also apply to Colombia, with the exception of the currency. I just do rough calculations for converting from COP to £ (GBP). Take off the thousands then divide by 4. Not so hard.
I've not visited Ecuador, but it's on my list of places to visit, once the pandemic has calmed down.
That sounds great but you got to remember there's crime everywhere in the world and the media makes Mexico look bad saying there's a bunch of stuff that goes on when it's the about the same as the crime in the United States or anywhere else in the world but maybe I could get my fiance in Mexico through live with me to Ecuador
It looks great but you got to remember the media makes Mexico look bad by saying that there's a lot of crime when it's about the same crime as the United States and plus I got my fiance in Mexico so maybe I could convince her to move to Ecuador with me and if I can't I will stay in 🇲🇽 Mexico because she lives in Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico right now but she was born in Acapulco, MEXICO
I have lived in ecuador 7 years now. Sometimes i feel the ecuadorians don't appreciate how beautiful their country is. Glad you are so happy here
> Sometimes i feel the ecuadorians don't appreciate how beautiful their country is.
They do, but when life is a struggle through poverty, politics, corruption, mismangement the people tend to focus on the immediate issues at hand.
Paul you are correct, we Ecuadorians do not appreciate the how beautiful our country is, I live in NY but I go every two years to visit the family and all I do is travel. Just waiting for my KIDS to be lil older and go to the Amazon. GOD bless you and your family, VIVA ECUADOR!
You’re partially right my friend, we don’t usually appreciate it but I will say it’s because of the fact that we grew up in this environment and also probably because we think about more serious topics like crime and all that stuff.
BUT at the end of the days we love our country, with its ups and downs
well we love our country but the people get tired of corruption, high level taxes compared to the minimum an average salary, is very difficult to import something and the industries are very underdeveloped so is very difficult to start a commerce, and usually here you live to work instead of work to live, so for a foreign ecuador is amazing because usually they move here when they want a cheap retirement, so problems like save money, low opportunities of jobs, job´s stress, sustain a family, education for the sons, etc... are not a problem, but for a local these are big problems
Man this country isn’t that good, yeah it’s cheap to live here, but it still is a 3rd world country plagued by corruption, poverty, unemployment, etc. expats love it here because it’s dirt cheap, it’s beautiful and nice for tourism yeah but most Ecuadorians don’t have good income to have a decent life, Healthcare isn’t as good as they say in the video, it’s free but overloaded so unless you are literally dying you have to wait months for a turn to see a doctor, just get a private insurance. anything that is imported, specially technology, is super expensive, if you work with tech and anything breaks, good luck, because it’ll cost a lot to import hardware.
As an ecuadorian I can say that we love foreing people, who loves our country, so welcome. I would like to share your videos with spanish subtitles, So we can feel pride of what we have
Dear John, I can't belive that I found you here..! I was reading the coments and I saw your picture..!
After to see this video I fell like I love my country even more.
@@gysmolina6723 😁
John, from what I can see after watching many videos, Ecuador is a country to be proud of. I sincerely hope to come there one day, learn the language, the customs, and the culture and be a part of it. I have never wanted to leave the U.S. until I started learning about Ecuador.
My dad built a pipeline over the Andes mountains in ‘69 - 71 in Ecuador. It was the most logistically challenging pipeline in history at the time. I have always wanted to travel there and just see his work. I conducted his funeral in Texas and after the funeral pipe-liners approached me who had been in Ecuador to service the pipeline stated that they could not imagine how he did it. Thanks for your video and I hope to visit some day.
I never thought about moving to Ecuador, but I did make a pleasant business trip there a couple of years ago. We met with our client in Guayaquil, then drove across the mountains to visit his customer in Cuenca. What a drive! I never thought I would see the tops of the clouds unless I was in an airplane! Of course, we drove through El Cajas National Park to get there, stopping at Tres Cruces for a few minutes (it was pretty cold) and while there we saw a condor soaring overhead! We met with the customer in Cuenca, then had a nice lunch at a local "mom & pop" restaurant. I had never tried cuy before, but I enjoyed it. The drive back was just as scenic. I rarely get to do much sight-seeing on my business trips, but this entire trip was almost a vacation! I envy you two!
Wow I even didn't finished reading your comment still.
Can feel being there
Cuenca has everything I need, except air. So I'd prefer to be a "mono" and live in guayaquil.
If that was me I will make like 20 stops...🤣🤣🤣...ille I use to do here when we went on trips. And our dream was to move to the mountains, and my heart wrecks, my husband passed away 2 years ago.
My Beautiful Country Ecuador as always!!! You should move here Mr...
@@gordon4385 excepto aire!🤔 Cuenca no está a gran altura como Quito, y además el aire es muchísimo más sano y fresco. Solo lo aclaro 👍
I hope we, Ecuadorians, could build a better country to let our people to enjoy our country as much as you do, thank you for remind us that our country is beautiful even with it's problems.
That's wild that the Natives of the land can't enjoy their land as much as foreigners who are descendants from colonizers that stole the land. Hmm hmm hmm they seem like nice folks though.
Nos encanta su país! Ecuador es mágico!
Roughly 7% of Ecuadorians self-identify as indigenous. The rest are of Spanish descent. If you go back far enough, we're all colonizers except for native Africans.
@@AmeliaAndJP it's a funny concept if you think about it. 7% identify themselves as indigenous, but I will say they identify not just as racially indigenous but also culturally indigenous, because a high percentage of the Ecuador population is indigenous, but is not cuturally indigenous they lump themselves as mestizo as they've integrated to the mestizo culture. I'd say Ecuador's indigenous (native american) population is 30%, 60% mestizo (half Spanish and native American) 6% European (white) and 4%black.
@kill kykes not really. There are to this day pure native Americans. One side of my family is 100 purely native American (Inca) and I can confirm that by dna test
Hola.! ☺️👋🏻
Bienvenidos a mi Ecuador 🇪🇨 ❤️ 🙏🏻
Los encontré por casualidad y son muy agradables personas. Infinitas gracias por haber elegido quedarse y dejar en alto el nombre de mi país.
Les deseo todo lo mejor, el tiempo que deseen quedarse.
Dios los bendiga.! 🙏🏻 ❤️ 😘 😘
I'm an ecuadorian living in NY and super ready to come back to my beautiful country to live there my retirement, just waiting for the pandemia get over. I was ready to leave six months ago.
And, I didn't have to do a research, my country it just what you guys founded out.
Thank you for choose Ecuador.
@Hector - Smart move! New York is a mess now. I’m only 40 minutes away from NYC. I have a home in Costa Rica for the past ten years and can’t wait to retire in three more years so I can relocate there. I hope to also visit Ecuador one day, I’ve heard wonderful things.
Hello hector Im also in nyc. I don't know but I have a thing for women of your country. Most of my friends are always visiting the same spot Santo Domingo, Puerto Rico and now they into Colombia. I want something different and wholesome. Will I experience any racism being that im a man of color? Spanish is my first language by the way.
I have been living in Ecuador for 5+ years now...I live in Vilcabamba (which is very far to the south) and is in the Andes Mountains - elevation about 5 thousand ft. - where the temperature is ALWAYS (year round) around 70 degrees F. and virtually no 'seasonal change'. When considering and researching where to live I placed emphasis on a country that was still very much an Agrarian culture which provides an amazing abundance and variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, at very, Very affordable prices, and no GMO produce. Yes, I still miss my homeland of the USA, but spending almost 70 years in America, this is to be expected; however, being totally reliant on my social security income, I live very comfortably, especially considering I have married a Wonderful Ecuadorian woman with a 12 year old son. Viva Ecuador!!!
How much do you need to survive there Monty USD for all costs?
@@nesq4104 That's difficult to answer because it depends on many factors: how many people to support; where you want to live in Ec; what type of lifestyle you want, etc. A very big Savings is usually in housing - we have a 3 bdm/2 and 1/2 baths, all hand laid hard wood floors, granite counter tops, etc. and pay $300 per month - many, many factors to consider.
@@dutchfuscaldo5344 I appreciate the information. I'm pretty frugal and never lived the high life. 300 monthly for that sounds excellent coming from NYC. So hypothetically would 700 USD monthly provide a descent lifestyle for 1 to 2 people in a good area? That would include food, housing, utilities and going out occasionally?
@@nesq4104 That's going to be a bit tough, and there is going to be a difference in spending depending on 1 or 2 people (you both have to eat!). Also, our $300 rent is for an Unfurished apt. Yes, you probably can find a 'furnished' apt. for as little as $200 - but I wouldn't live there! Probably 1 person on $700 can 'survive', I say 'Survive'...but is that how you want to live???
@@dutchfuscaldo5344 ok. I understand. Thanks
I am glad you like Ecuador so much!! I am Ecuadorian living in New York , When the pandemic is over I will travel there. Best wishes!!!
Ecuador is a very bad situation right now right? When do you think it will be safe
Sounds great!
VEFALI TÜRK_06 Actually I would say the pandemic is worse in USA at this moment. Ecuador has more or less controlled the pandemic. Pretty much everyone wear a mask.
@@wolfseye0614 the problem is the pandemic like un the USA
I visited Ecuador a few years ago and loved it there. I had lived in Spain as a child so I remembered a little Spanish, but after about 3 weeks I had no problem in communicating with the people in their own language. I spent a few days in Guayaquil and found it a lovely city. I was warned it is best to be off the streets by 9 pm as there was an issue with petty crime. I spent the bulk of my time in Cuenca, which I loved, and also Vilcabamba. Cuenca reminded me of the Spain I used to live in which no longer exists. I found the people there to be very friendly and there is also a huge ex-pat community there. One thing to understand for Americans, Ecuador is not the US. They do things differently down there. I once saw a man mowing a soccer field with a weed wacker and wondered why he didn’t use a lawnmower. The reason is lawnmowers are expensive and labor is cheap. If you expect Ecuador to be like the US, you will be disappointed, but if you embrace the culture, you will love it there.
Gosh guys! When "we"moved to Ecuador....my husband was finishing up some useless oral Chemo drugs, and amongst the regular crap he was taking...was Morphine 3X/day! We had never had marijuana, and found a source for edibles! The CBD butter turned out to be THE BEST thing for him! He got completely off pain meds for his cancer after moving to Ecuador! This made his last years the best they could have ever been! 💖
What a wonderful testimony, so happy your husband could finish this life in dignity! be well, cheers!
Thanks for sharing! I had never tried Mary Jane before my surgeries. It's a miracle drug! The side effects from the prescription drugs took away my will to live. I woke up in the middle of the night once and had know idea who I was, where I was or who Amelia was. It took several days before I felt "love" for her again. She was a stranger to me! That was the most terrifying part of my recovery. She suggested I try edibles and they worked almost immediately. I was off all the other horrible, addictive pharma drugs within days and I stopped using the edibles a month later. Sometimes when my back really hurts, I eat some but I haven't had any in almost a year. It's completely absurd that it's illegal, and even more so that it's classified as a Schedule 1 equivalent to Heroin. So much suffering caused by so much corruption.
Please can you explain me what kind of treatment are you talking bout my brother has terrible pain after spinal surgeries
Amelia And JP I’m so sorry you had to go through that! Thank God you are past it now🙏
ANTONIO ESCOBAR JP’s experiebce with back surgeries is very different than mine. Maybe he can help. I simply had three surgeries that removed ruptured didks, boney spurs and one small mingeoma tumor. The last surgery went wrong, and punctured the spinal cord, loosing all my spinal fluid, so i didntget the fusion i needed.( all in the U.S.) Im trying to live without more surgeries. Just copewith the arthtitic pain
Thank you guys. Me and my wife consider Ecuador as one potential retirement destination. Greetings from Houston, TX. Keep up your awesome channel
we send you greetings from Bolivia! (Fellow Texans)
And Central America, also fellow Texan
Ecuador 🇪🇨 is a nice country.
I love Ecuador. It is such a beautiful country, and the people are so warm and welcoming. I sponsor a girl there through Compassion International and was able to meet her for the first time in 2017 when I went on a sponsor tour. The tour was based in Quito, but we did visit some other areas, including the rainforest. The sponsored children were bused in to Quito from various parts of Ecuador to meet their sponsors. I returned to Ecuador with Compassion International last year, and this time we were based in Guayaquil. We visited some other areas, including Manta and Isla de la Plata. The ocean views on Isla de la Plata were stunning. I am now sponsoring another girl in Ecuador and two children in Peru and one in Kenya, and I hope to go back to Ecuador next year when the two girls that I sponsor graduate from the program.
What I like about your videos is that they are to the point and succinct. You don't beat around the bush. You provide information efficiently. You are genuine and it is easy to say you are very good people. Bless you.
Glad you like them!
My first impression too, AND I can definately see the love they have for eachother. like how my husband looks at me😍
I'm moving to Ecuador soon. Ecuador is paradise!
The Crime rate in Ecuador is not low anymore.
Thanks for the helpful video. I'm looking at Central and South America as my next home if things don't improve in the U.S. This really helped.
GO TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC YOU'LL LOVE IT THERE THINGS WILL GET WORST IN AMERICA
You are welcome to come here to Costa Rica 💕 the diversity here is huge, you'll always be at 30-60 minutes from a bunch of national parks
Same here.
Carolyn's RV Life you are welcome and beautiful and getting better.
You are welcome to Ecuador 💕🇪🇨 you'll love it, choose a beach! And you'll be in love
I spent christmas break 2017 in Olon , and walked the beach, where you recorded this video, everyday! I had a dejavu on the first scene trying to process that you were on the Olon beach. I have to agree with all your reasons for living in Ecuador. Especially in Olon.
Moved to Thailand 15 years ago. Cannot begin to express how great it's been
I am happy when expats make videos like this and remind me just how beautiful Ecuador is.
I'm a retired Canadian living in Medellin, Colombia. City has a permanent spring climate, very pleasant, very good exchange rate to Can dollar, almost every North American food product is available here.
Absolutely gorgeous country for scenery ! Never regretted coming here for retirement.
how much tax do you pay in colombia?
@@rocambole93 I don't pay any income tax in Colombia.
probably because you are canadian...but US doesnt have taxes agreement with colombia
I passed the link to your video(s) to a friend who is looking for a place to visit and may move to. Very informative and I enjoy your optimism for the country in general and for life in particular. Thanks for your videos and sharing your knowledge and wishing you Muy Buena Suerte en sus nuevas aventuras en Equador.
Awesome, thank you!
I love your video. I lived in Ecuador 10 years ago, but the reason I left was because the crime was getting out of control. I was mugged at knife point at 7:00 am while getting off the tram to walk to my teaching job. Granted, that was in Quito, but it got to the point where even my Ecuadorian students were afraid to sit in the park, as they were also the targets of crime. It may be different now, I don't know. But I did love living there so much. The beauty, the mountains, the lovely people who speak Spanish so clearly. It really is a gorgeous country.
And this is happening same in peru, Colombia, Chile , Argentina .... I see all the time in the news
I'm 62, fortunately in very good health, avid hiker, mountain biker and backpacker. I have some money and truthfully I just want out of the u.s. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. I never thought of Latin America as a retirement location, mainly due to lack of research on my part and the generally negative stereotypes. I think Ecuador is worth taking a good look at. I have relatives in Australia and I could easily move there, but was surprised at though they promote a welcoming demeanor, how blatant they were about age discrimination even though I possess a masters degree. Have fun! Be safe.
Hello thanks for the video. I’m 67 year old man. I also just want out. I have been single now for six years. What are prospects for finding a compatible mate. I’m in good health and shape, not rich but not in debt either.
I agree with all your reasons to be here in Ecuador..well, my wife is Ecuadorian also😉The biggest reason why I am here...🥰wonderful video guys!
I liked your 10 reasons and fully agree! However, I couldn't believe you didn't mention the WONDERFUL weather! I live in Quito and the weather is the #1 reason I've stayed for ever 8 years. No AC. No heat. People in the US can't even imagine it!!!!
what about the rain there ?
dan hayes It doesn’t rain enough for me anymore. I like rain!
I respect your opinion Ben... but Playas has the best weather LOL... I invite you to go there...
how about the altitude?
and what about the wind - which messes up your hair , blows your hat off etc. etc. Very important to have very low or better yet near 0 average wind.
Im glad you guys really studied all your options and not just throw a dart on a world map. Your reasons were excellent. Not only a beautiful couple but a smart one!
Thank you!
I've had 4 Ecuadorian girlfriends over the years so I'm very familiar with how they speak Spanish.
This has encouraged me to visit Ecuador.
Mis gringos favoritos ❤️🇪🇨🇺🇸 Great video!
I live in England...and i come from Ecuador...i miss my Beautiful Country and my people so much...and my delicious food...can wait to come back one day...you too are so lucky...God bless...
Folks, do not overthink your decision to move to a foreign country. people moved from Europe without making a test visit ... today you can do much research online. If you have a sense of adventure and are unhappy where you are ... then take the plunge and move. For me, money was tight. I just could not visit countries and learn first-hand what the likes and dislikes were.
I think your success is to have an open mind. accept your new country. Do not moan and cry and try to change the new country into the country you are leaving ... after all, you do not like where you are now.
Good advice, Frank Miller. For one month, I stayed with a friend who retired in Ecuador. What a sewer! Got robbed the 2nd day in Quito. Soiled toilet paper in the trash cans in the restroom stinks. On the coast, we ran out of water twice, and electricity failed 3 times. Yes, things are inexpensive, so is pitching a tent in the US.
I spend a summer in Málaga and a year in Madrid. Oh sooo much better. Of course, it costs the same as living in the US, but you are safer there. It's up to you.
I have always been a very adaptable type person; "Adapt or Die by the side of the road" has been my philosophy. I love adventure and new cultures; I come with open arms. I love all people; everywhere. We are excited about our last Hurrah - the move to Ecuador or Panama; either one sounds lovely...but am leaning more towards Ecuador.
I learned a LOT from this video about Ecuador! I have never been to South America, but I'm thinking about visiting Ecuador first. I was considering about moving to Costa Rica because of people, food, safety, and natural beauty; yet, the heavy rainfall does make me wonder if it would be worth it. Now, Monteverde is a place I could see myself living in Costa Rica as I enjoyed my time in the Costa Rica rainforest. Even so, your reasoning about moving Ecaudor has intrigued me such as the country using the US dollar. I appreciate this video and look forward learning more about your time in Ecuador! Thank you!
I visited Ecuador from January 1st to July 7th in 2020. I had traveled around the whole world before my arrival (February through December of 2019). Before my journey, I read alot, joined a world traveler's online group, watched numerous videos to create my itinerary. Afterward, my gut instinct (due to my personal preferences) considered Cuenca, Ecuador as my (likely) first choice to live (and retire one day). Therefore, I saved the "best for last" on my trip. That being said, I was not disappointed for all of the reasons that you mentioned (and more!) in your top 10 list. FYI. My second choice was and is Ljubljana, Slovenia. Thanks, Amelia & J. P., for your great videos!
Thank you guys for the beautiful words and support of my country. Muchas gracias!!
The secret to an early retirement is to find a location where your cost of living is 1/4 to 1/3 the cost of living where you currently reside and secondly is to have an incredibly favorable exchange rate. This is why my wife and I have decided on Colombia. Come and visit us in Pereira, Colombia when we can travel again!
@@mynickname4884 The really bad earthquake was in Armenia which is 1-1/2hr drive from Pereira. When we built our house in Cerritos, we paid for a seismic study and designed the foundation accordingly. Our house in Cerritos is 2 stories with two suites on the top floor and 2 bedrooms on the main floor. We loved living in Medellin. Our condo was in El Poblado in Edificio Blux but all our family is in Manizales, Anserma, Cali...so now we are close to family yet still far enough away!
Another key is find a job that will give you a lifetime pension and allow you early retirement. Then work like an animal for 25 years and bail with no regrets when you're still young.
I'm a retired Canadian living in Itagui, South Medellin.
Medellin is a great city, you can find almost every product available in North America, great weather, good exchange rate to Canadian dollar and great restaurants. Never regretted moving here.
@@davidkroll4360 Hi David, my name is Jacques and I would like to hear more from you in regards to living in Colombia. It's reputation was bad in the 80's and 90's and wanted to hear your impressions as I am going to be retiring soon and I want to live somewhere modern and affordable. Plus I am tired of winter and the North American politics of BS although that's pretty well everywhere. We currently live in Toronto and I do speak Spanish (lost a bit along the way, lol) and fluent English and French. We are considering going to Spain or Portugal but want to hear about Latin America (Colombia, Ecuador etc... , cost of living, weather, the people, etc...... I am doing a lot of research as the pandemic really screwed the whole world over as we were planning on visiting the countries that would be on our short list. We do live a healthy lifestyle so the importance of gyms and healthy foods are some of the priorities that are a must. My email address is jjconstantin@gmail.com and I do hope to hear from you soon.
Take care.
Jacques
do you pay taxes in colombia? how much?
His voice is exactly like Jeff Bridges!
I was thinking the travel guide Rick Steves.
I was thinking Rick Steves as well
"now that....is a big door".....Tron :D
Haha! I didn't realize but your absolutely right.
Haha yes!
I plan to retire to Ecuador and know some people down there. COVID has prevented the move (have sell my farm and reduce dog numbers to good homes) but as soon as things open up I will make the move. Most of the reasons are same as JP and Amelia with one added of the higher population of Indigenous people (I'm half Cherokee). I'm really looking forward to the move!
I hope yo can do it and will live an incredible time in my country. You'll be welcome.
Darlene Cannon i lived awhile in Cotacatchi, a little North of Quito. There, and the towns around, like Otovalo, have a rich culture of Indigenous! Very proud, many proffessionals! The culture pervades the small, every day things of life, which made the experience tranquil and beautiful in manh, many ways!
You’re very welcome!! 🤗
That's great! Compared to the US, Ecuador treats indigenous people very well. The treatment could be better, especially for those in the Amazon, but we like how everyone lives together in the same areas. There is no separation/isolation like in the US. We could learn so much from other countries.
if any of the dogs need a home let me know i want to adopt a dog
My wife and I have had a place in Colombia for 10 years now! We lived in Medellin but now have a House in a Secured Condominium Complex in Cerritos by Pereira. You would be welcome to come visit us when we are able to travel there again. Currently we are in Calgary, Alberta.
Coastal weather are doing wonders for both of you!!!!! Gorgeous Emília glows and JP looks so refreshed ‘n relaxed. No chance of missing the Cuenca weather. Although meself partial to the mountains and greenery surrounding the Andean valleys Keep up the great work and blessings for both!!!! 💞🇪🇨♥️
Thank you so much!
I lived in Costa Rica for a year. The rainy season is awesome. The most beautiful skies after the daily rain showers (which only last about 5-10 minutes). Rainy season brings light rains and I don't recall any storms.
It can raín hard in CR. We call the storm's aguaceros. But they are dramatic and awesome displays of nature. Hard to find a Tico who complains about the rain.
I really enjoyed this video. You all talked about a lot of the places that I have researched and eliminated for almost the same reasons that you did. I have narrowed my choices down to Boquete and Cuenca and will have to make a visit to both places to make the final decison. I'm actually leaning a lot more towards Ecuador, but Boquete is still very much in the running. Thank you so much for sharing so much great information with us, you all are living your best life!
Glad you enjoyed it! Let us know what you think of Boquete!
@@AmeliaAndJP I definitely will when I can get there, looking forward to it.
Boquete🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦
Glad to hear a wonderful opinion about my country. Always welcome guys♥️🌺
honestly every Country has It's ups and downs .It all depends on what you are looking for and what works for you.
* its ( it’s = it is )😉😉
Very well said..what is great for them, maybe not so for others, plus Ecuador have their problems also, there is not a perfect paradise on this planet..regards
I love Ecuador! I hope to move there one day! It's literally my dream
Didn't know Ecuador is on the dollar! Interesting
John Flynn since 1999 we have USD💵 in Ecuador 🇪🇨.
Yes that means Ecuador is not only susceptible to the FMI but to the whims of the FED... it may sound like a pro, but it is a con.
I was also surprised to discover this in El Salvador. I now know where all the Susan B. Anthony dollars are!
Panama is too.
Nice video, never thought about Ecuador. Thanks for the info.
Yes, Ecuador is very beautiful and hope the economic will be better.
Thank you.
I chose to move to Costa Rica in 2014. The weather is amazing up in the mountains here. No complaints! Glad to be away from the riots and craziness of the USA!!!
One day I hope to move to Costa Rica 🇨🇷.
Yeah, the weather here in Costa Rica varies depeding on the area. It doesnt really rain 6 months a year straight. It only rains really hard from august until the first week of november and even so, you get rain 3 or 4 days a week during 2 month and even during the wet season you get 2 or 3 days of sun.
@ Brian Thompson... Omg Costa Rica is not as good as u make it seem.. I was there and had to move because I hated it... it's a horrible Country i prefer Brazil, Chile and Ecuador my favorite beautiful Countries 😛
We just retired and are looking to leave US we were thinking of panama but Ecuador sounds great but w travel restrictions? Do you have to take c vaccine? I was hoping to travel in 2020 but those plans were dashed and it doesn't look like 2021 will be any better
@@latinito21 Jajajaja celoso de que tu país se queda atrás de Costa Rica casi que en todo bro.
I hope you are ok guys, nice to hear that you like Ecuador, regarding your reason 6 , You forgot the Galápagos, I have gone there and is a beautiful place You have to go there at least once, greetings from Quito.
You're right! We forgot to mention Galapagos! Hope we can visit there soon!
I think of Chile my grandfather was from the U.S. my grandmother was from Australia my father was born in Chile due to the fact my grandfather was a mining engineer back in the late 1800's through the 1900's until his death in 1958. He helped on the copper mines in Chile thus my father was born there.Chile is the polar opposite of California.
Reason #11 to get away from all the crazies!!
There are crazies there too!
@@universedonut so true ... lol!
No kidding!
@Justin Stewart Some Latin American cities are located at a higher elevation where it's not very humid at all. If I ever immigrated there I would choose one of those cities to live in.
So you're saying Mexicans are crazy? Woah so mature
Thank you for the inspiring words, learning about south America, watched a lot of Mexico and thought Merida would be a good spot, never knew about this spot
You guys have the same reasons for choosing Ecuador as we do! We're going to Salinas as soon as we can get there!
Great!
@@AmeliaAndJP Hopefully we can get together and walk on that great beach at Chipipe!
I must say another great video from you guys , Thank you !!!
Thank you so much for the update. When I’ve been looking for a new place to move to from Thailand I saw many benefits and pluses in Ecuador. It is very encouraging to have them verified by yourselves after having moved there and experienced the life there.
Thanks so much 👍😊
I am so happy that I just found you Unconventional Kids. Happy (belated) Birthday, Amelia! And Happy YT Anniversary to you both!! Thank you for sharing your experiences in Cuenca. I love your open-mindedness and the adventurous spirit. Thank you for your honesty and willingness to share the whole picture of your life in Ecuador. I really love the fact that you both have phenomenal communication skills. I have Liked, Subscribed, and rung the bell , and now I'm watching all your past videos. The Tropics are calling me and speaking fluent Spanish is on my bucket list, so I am looking forward to all your future videos.!! You are both so awesome!
Can't wait to hear about Amelia's job.
I'm from Ecuador, I live in Ecuador. When you said good health care I was a bit confused. You might be going to private hospitals. But if you rely on public health care (which is what most people rely on), it's horrible :c
Still, I'm glad that you're able to get good Healthcare here. And I'm super glad that you are enjoying living in my country. I love my country. 💜💜
They clearly said that they live in a $2000 a month budget for two people, the average Ecuadorian family is 4 people and their budget is $500 a month that is why they are clueless about real healthcare in Ecuador. They are clearly speaking to foreigners with big budgets .
@@slopez7091 yeah I know. The minimum wage is $425 a month, and it's not enough to cover the basic needs of a family. And a lot of people don't even earn minimum wage and have to rely in odd jobs. But I know they are talking to foreigners, and that's okay. That's why I said I feel happy that they are enjoying living here and have a good health care here :)
How does it work with private hospitals/healthcare in Ecuador? Do they only serve foreigners, not native Ecuadorians? If you are a native Ecuadorian and have an accident and need emergency, care can you go to private hospital if it is the nearest hospital?
@@jpny4750 they do serve native people. The thing is that it may be cheap for someone that's lived in the US most of their lives, but for us it is very expensive. So most people use public hospitals. Everyone can use the private ones, it's just that it is expensive for us.
@@jpny4750 and yes, for an emergency you can go to the nearest hospital, doesn't matter if it's a private or public one. Though most people would got to one that their insurance can cover, if they have that.
I always liked the way you introduce my country with an excellent background ever, which is easy to appreciate. I really hope you are enjoying all and each reason that you described here and Ecuador can will give you back the same love with wich you refer to it 🇪🇨❤ Xoxo from Argentina 💙🇦🇷
Thank you! 😃 Ecuador is an amazing country!
I visited Colombia a few years back and found it to be beautiful. Our group (a choir) was careful about our safety and we were led by a local. The people we encountered were anxious for tourism and were SO welcoming! Go visit!!
I've been to Ecuador twice and loved it both times! I have dreamed of moving ever since my last visit...
I am loving your videos! Like you, I'm a transplant to Ecuador from Colorado. I left the US for all the reasons you mentioned in one of your videos, and I chose Ecuador for all the reasons you mentioned in another video. I've been in Cotacachi for a little over four months now, and I love it. No regrets about moving. If you're ever in the neighborhood, look me up, and we'll have almuerzo together. Thanks again for your terrific videos.
Thanks Teresa!
I found this simply by accident. For years I've wanted to go to Ecuador to live but was unsure how I would do this. Not sure what I would do for work. I guess I need to research what I may be able to do remotely or what is available there. Now it's back on my radar. Thanks for this.
Gracias por elegir nuestro país, me encanta sus videos es muy interesante la opinión que tiene los extranjeros del país y también puedo seguir aprendiendo sobre el idioma inglés. Saludos desde Quito.
I lived in Ecuador for several years, did study abroad there, agree with everything you say and could add more reasons too. Climate is great, for one thing.
You have almost talked me into visiting and exploring Ecuador for retirement.
Hola hola. I am doing extensive research about relocating there. The cost of living in NY is very outrageous.i think I could get more milage out of my dollars in Cuenca. Love your videos.
It's much cheaper here!
I live in NYC and spent last summer living in Cuenca. It's AWESOME. And super cheap, at least when it comes to daily living items, housing, etc.
You will love Cuenca. Produce and everything you need for the week you will find it in a very low price. I hope you can make a good decision. You'll love Ecuador
Wow!! Very informative video!! I’ve been thinking of moving out of the US for a while now, so, this video truly gives me hope and encouragement!! Thank you!!
I was born in the US but i lived my whole life in Ecuador, its the most amazing country ive ever been to, the people are amazing, the food is delicious ❤️, I currently live on the US but i will travel there soon
Great overview of why you chose Ecuador!
We're currently living in Nicaragua due to the pandemic and we're looking at other options for our next place as it looks like it's going to be hard to get back to our home country of Australia for a while. Ecuador seems like a great option!
Great video! I am planning on moving to Ecuador as soon as I get my Temporary Visa. I have been there 3 times and can confirm what was said in this video. Especially the part about no one having change for $20 bills :-). One thing that should be mentioned is that you probably SHOULDN"T move to Ecuador if you need to find a job there. The Covid-19 pandemic and low crude prices globally has hurt their economy a lot. Government employees all had to take a pay cut.
It's refreshing to hear you guys since we always complain about the place we live in until someone else makes you remember the positive things.
I'm planning to move there myself. Good luck guys all the blessings
I'm a ecuadorian American living in New York and this is giving me ideas when I retired
Bienvenidos a Ecuador es un país muy tranquilo .me alegro que les guste y el clima es bueno
Great video! Our little family of 5 is considering a few months in Costa Rica, but Ecuador might be pretty awesome to visit too!
Sounds great!
I am hopefully going to Colombia in January. I've done a lot of research on the entire country, and from what I can tell it is beautiful. The people are super nice. The living is cheap. Might be my final destination upon retirement. A lot of Americanos in Colombia.
Thanks for your informative and encouraging videos.
This kind of videos make me really proud of being ecuadorian, I appreciate you chose my dear country to live the rest of your lives.
You are such a beautiful couple and i really hope you guys spend a great time in here.
Blessings
( PS. the mister looks like a Jeff Brigdes' Brother XDD )
Thank you for publishing a thoughtful video. All the best to you in Ecuador, a beautiful country.
Thank you very much!
I stayed in Costa Rica for a couple weeks. The advantage I saw there is you can choose the climate that suits your taste. Sea level is hot and humid, but you can move up in altitude to where the average year around temperature is around 62 to 68 degrees. No need for heat or air conditioning. Of course you won't be on the beach, but in the mountains the weather is more to my liking. So I would never rule out Costa Rica, since I'm not very much of a beach person anyway.
It sounds similar to Ecuador, there you can also choose different weathers depending on the altitude you choose, you can go to the beach, mountains, or Amazon jungle in very few hours.
I'm so glad that you guys liked our beautiful Ecuador
Ecuador es un país de brazos abiertos, pero espero que los que quieran venir sepan cuidarlo y apreciarlo porque es mi país, y no vengan a contanimar ni a dañarlo.
Siiii tienes razón 😂 pero Viva Ecuador!! My country!
Very nice video. I have been living in Ecuador for 4 years now and it is a very beautiful country!!!
I've always considered moving to Ecuador. I never thought that my job would let me work remotely from there. Now days I think they would since I have been working remotely for 4 years. I'd love to move there since I married an Ecuadorian citizen. She misses her family but most of all misses her profession, which requires extensive schooling and getting a dental license here. I 'm seriously considering the move now even though we own a home here in the US.
I retire in 4 years and we are starting to look at where we will live in retirement and Ecuador is in our top four choices. Looking forward to learning about it from your videos.
I don’t even need to watch the whole video. I just read the title and my finger moves instantly to the like button! Thank you for choosing my beautiful country! I hope you live a full and happy life in my native land! I just subscribed to your channel! Greetings from NYC! 🇺🇸🇪🇨
You made the right choice!!!
my parents are from ecuador and although i’ve never been there myself i love my culture and i hope you enjoy your time there!!
We made the move to Ecuador and don't regret it. We are sticking it out through the pandemic. We missed our summer visit back to the US, but we'll survive here. Our reasons were very similar to Amelia and JP after visiting other countries first. (Uruguay was tops, but a little too far away) The people in Ecuador are wonderful and patient, not having to convert money is great. The cost of living is amazing. And, you can choose if you want to live among expats or not. We don't, but that's not for everyone. It looks like they are in Olon, great little town, I love the beach there - among one of the best in Ecuador.
Thanks for sharing! Happy to hear you're enjoying it here too!
As always, great information, thanks for sharing your experience and perspective,
Perfect timing! I think about this every day. I keep researching Ecuador, Columbia, Portugal, Spain, bla bla bla. Cheers from Alaska.
We live in Puerto rico and we have been trying to figure out where to move as well ecuador and colombia are both on our list. However what taxes are expats having to pay what about healthcare insurance? What meds in the us can't you get there??
I suggest that you NOT eliminate Costa Rica as a valuable home. They obviously didn't search out the central plateau which maintains a 75-80 degree temperature throughout the year. I was there in 1980 for 3 months and went back in "81 for another 2 months . I spent my time in Alajuela ( loved it ) but also traveled throughout the country. If you want hot just go to the coastal beaches. It is a gorgeous Democratic Repunlic.
@@bbobrm i've known someone from costa rica for 30 years and it wasn't till about a month ago that an ex-pat convinced me that costa rica is hot and humid, and actually prefers the cold frosty winters of vancouver (i despise the winters here). he's also spent time in mexico and spain, and is very fluent in english, and helps translate for his construction co-workers.
the time difference aspect compared to europe also made sense.
@@sandraduncan4372 On my research you do have to file US taxes (If you're an American) but only pay taxes on anything above 104K... Ecuador only pay taxes on income over 12k.(And I don't think pension is considered income)
Marty, We are searching in Portugal as well and I saw that was on your list. Is there a reason you ruled out Portugal?
Thanks for your informatiom and video, I visited for 12 days in Dec. and wasn't long enough. I loved it and definitely thinking of taking the plunge and relocationg to Ecudaor. I also have been considering many of the same countries you ran through. I meant to be an ex-pat but have been living back in U.S. a long time. I have taken a few long trips trying to figure out my next move. Meanwhile i'm stuck in Florida for the time being.
Great! this is amazing, keep making this content to attract foreigners. I live in Quito and can say most positive things about Ecuador. Keep travelling, Ecuador as small as it looks has wonders to see. Move north, Quito and Ibarra are amazing and the climate is way better. I consider myself local, a honest tip Quito has the best Spanish from all 3 major cities. I'm Swiss and Ecuador, like all countries has its pros and cons but it has way more pros than cons, a so underrated country with so much of rich experiences. We have lost many tourist during the years and its a shame because it has so much to show. Keep making this content don't let the cons fool you its a wonderful country.
Guys! Your channel is amazing. As an ecuadorian I'm feel so happy to see Ecuador through your eyes. Best vibes for you both!
I can’t wait to go back to Ecuador and see u both next time on the beach I would like to try it instead of Cuenca this time
I just found you guys. How i interesting. Yes, I would like to go visit. Love the mountains
Rod here, my wife and I really liked your video. We are looking to leave the US and would like to know more about the country.
We have lots of videos about being an expat here: ruclips.net/p/PLuE28kB_I-cc8RybYLzF1XT_d_GcX3YB0
I’m Ecuadorian ! And I’m happy that you enjoy life there in my beautiful country !