Our 7 BIGGEST Mistakes when we LEFT the United States (and moved to ECUADOR)
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- Опубліковано 5 сер 2024
- A lot of YOUR recent comments have voiced the same concerns we had BEFORE and DURING our move from the United States to Ecuador. That sparked the idea for this video where we share the BIGGEST mistakes we made on our expat life journey. Hopefully, we can save you some of the self-inflicted suffering we imposed on ourselves during this HUGE change in our lives.
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Thanks for the advice!
Would you pls talk about shipping personal items from the USA to Ecuador
Also how can be to older people regarding nursing homes
Thank you much !!!
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TANG - how could you survive without the delicious taste of TANG for breakfast ? ;-)
I moved from Hawaii to Thailand, it was like moving from an economic third world to a modern country. I'm afraid there is too much negativity about safety outside of the USA, To me that would be the scariest thing is to move BACK to the USA. congratulations on your move and choice... Most people in America are so unaware, their idea of going to another country is Las Vegas. Expat living is amazing, but having the money and income is the first priority, same as anywhere.
Thats one of the worst parts- its way harder to acquire new money in those countrys. After that, life is easier ofcourse.
I'm looking forward to retiring abroad in 2 years. Before that, I'll do a lot of vacation explorations
Congratulations on being honest and humble enough to admit that you made mistakes during your first year living in Ecuador.
This is the first expat vid I've seen where you discuss mistakes that you were made and things that could've been done differently. Thanks for you honesty. I learned a lot!
I lived 10 years in Cumbaya, Quito. This place is becoming a city now. But Tumba o, Puembo.. are still nice. It is in the valley and the climate is very nice. You have all the facilities, shops and good hospitals at liitle distances,
A Belgian woman loving Ecuador
I agree with you how not to
Love Ecuador ?, loving it too ❤️🙏
@@alexaao1063 🙏 🤲 🕍
Usually internet access is easier in countries that had a less developed telecom system. It is much easier to introduce advanced systems when no existing system has to be included. When I was informed by message in my mailbox in city center St Petersburg Russia that our building was updated to fiber optic. I sent a message saying wanted it an 2 days later an installer was there and they ran fiber directly into my living room, no community router or anything. It was 330mb/sec unmetered. They said it would be $72 which I thought was pretty high but Comcast in California was charging $240. I misunderstood the rate, he quoted the YEARLY cost. That was 11 years ago, perfect reliability. Now they offer 800mb/s unmetered but $6/month for what I have is good enough for me.. My cell phone account is 45gb/month for data, which is 10 times what I have ever used, and it is $4.40 a month
My utilities per month are totaling about $80/mo because it is a a 3 bedroom apartment and rates are influenced by size.Every apartment has hot water for space heating pumbed into every home from center boiler plants in each district. My Electric bill in California was close to $900/month because PG&E was scammed by the Enron scandle and we lived just 6 miles north of San Francisco where we never used air conditioning. During a drought, we paid $1000/month for water even though no plant watering or more than 1 toilet flush a day was allowed. Property taxes alone were more than my total cost of living including nightly dining out, world-class opera, ballet, jazz clubs, museums...very active social and culture life for around $1000 a month.
That is why there is no homeless here, with almost everyone over 20 owns their home free and clear of debt and has a college degree with debt due to free university, and no medical costs. The result is the bare minimum cost of living is VERY low so even a street musician working 2 days a week lives a normal life with no debt. That also means little or no crime.
One thing that every visitor gets for their first time, lectures by all their friends about how dangerous it is, and how the police will kidnap you, or rob you. I tell visitors to enjoy their visit they must erase their memory of all the well-meaning but totally ignorant friends and media claim about countries they know nothing about. Is it every country where people who do not even have passports trying convince travelers that they are making a serious life-threatening mistake? I get that even on Facebook from people in the US who have never been out of their state telling me they know more than me about how dangerous it is despite me living here just shy of 21 years and know more than any 10 reporters combined. Are they just envious because they are too frightened to travel that they want to ruin the trip for their "friend"? They probably get it from the most dishonest media and news system in the world, but assume they are the only ones with the truth when in fact they have no truth. If someone wants to move, and if they are able I highly recommend it, they should. One way to avoid bad information is travel to their chosen country and a lot 6 months of non-tourist exploration, learn areas with the weather or environment they prefer, learn how to do basic living tasks like opening a bank account, or rentals, transportation. If they are already sure of where they want to settle it will not take 6 months but a good solid month to learn just how little is needed to bring. I knew a lot about my destination due to visiting many times and owned property 4 years before, which was sold ...stupidly..when its value doubled by 1999. Not that prime beautiful location after the country's deep depression was ended with a new president in 2000, that same apartment is now worth over $1million. I paid $23,000 and invested $6k in remodeling and installing a full marble kitchen and bath.
A simple solution to the earnest advice is asking "oh, thank you, how long did you live there?" That advice always comes from envious people, who never travel and have no clue about what is happening in their own city so surely know nothing about a country thousand of miles a way that does not speak their language.
Overall, every one of the 91 countries I have spent time in, was better than any published account or general belief. Some like Iran or Libya(before the destruction by NATO/US) were amazingly different than was assured they would be. I read daily statements in the west about Russia that are all negative, and all completely fabricated. Same with Cuba. There is strong political motives in lying to the public.Every country has been better off, safer, friendlier in better condition, and safer than claimed by non-travelers, newsreaders, and politicians. After you have lived in your new home country 3-6 months you will see the same, you know of absolute direct knowledge the claims are fabricated for consumption by American non-travelers.
I love this couple, I an Ecuadorian 32 years old... arrive in United States when I was 17 and I work hard to make sure i have enough money to go back to my country when finally i can retire and enjoy my family and country ...god keep blessing you 🙏
I wish you luck and good health ....and don't wait too long! When you have enough, go. :)
Best wishes to you
Im a 35 yr old americam rryinf to visit ecuador and maybe get second citizenship. Me and you are almost exact opposite sides of same situation. So what do you like about usa?
I lived in Cuenca three months.....after travelling all countries south n central America.....I found Cuenca the safest place......but not all Ecuador is safe......Guyaquil and coastal places are dangerous. Cuenca is great mainly due to the amount of expats that do live there....bringing in their money and pensions etc......but where there is a non expat community.....it's different!
You betcha, William
Personality type has got to make a lot of difference in whether you succeed or not when moving abroad . .
Very true.
Yes ! I am fortunately an adventurous person (altho critical :-) ) and that helped, as I had travelled to about 25 countries before leaving the US, 20 years ago.
Seriously the cutest couple
I opened the video and thought the same thing, then saw your comment. 😃
Right? You two are adorable and we love your content! When I retire to Ecuador, I’m buying you guys a drink.
7:17 OMG, I am Ecuadorian, and this stresses me out A LOT, especially with public officials, the sometimes have that attitude of I am just paid for answering the questions I am being asked.
I've just discovered you guys and am binge watching your youtube channel. Of course I have subscribed!! Very recently I happened to chat with a couple who now live in Colombia in a town where alot of ex pats have migrated to. These folks love it there, (wish I coule remember the name of the town), and it got me thinking about South America. Now that I have found you guys online, I am really getting interested in the possibility of making a move. You are providing a wonderful service to others, so Thank you so much!!!
Amelia & J.P. : You two were clearly meant to be together. And obviously, y'all are quite happy in Ecuador. Entonces, FELICITACIONES ! 👍😎
¡Gracias!
I went there in the late 80's. Interesting flora because it was high in elevation (Quito) , but on the equator, so there were hibiscus growing with tulips. Beautiful architecture.
When we visited Ecuador in 2008 we wished we would have stayed. But I did want to mention that I had my purse stolen in Quito in a ladies room, it was in front of me and they used a broom, I couldn't chase them with my jeans around my ankles. Thank goodness I didn't have money BUT I did have both of our passports. I do admit the process to get one wasn't to bad, just wasted 3 days, but when leaving at the airport, it was returned... No phone, no camera, no glasses, no makeup. But passports we're there, I had more trouble explaining and getting rid of one (cause now we had 2 each) in the US. We will be back. I'll stay in touch. LOL. Bless you guys!
Crime was a lot worse 10 years ago. It has been in steady decline since 2011. However, theft and pickpocketing is still an issue.
Good stuff as usual!
We moved a 150# mastiff down here - it was a nightmare. It probably cost us $4,000 more than to would have cost to bring an in-cabin pet. Customs was closed on Sunday when the dog finally arrived. So, don't arrive on Sundays, and be sure to verify (multiple times) the airline requirements for flying pets.
Also, I learned from an Ecuadorian friend that you can transfer money to pretty much any other Ecuadorian financial account for your payments. So we now use this method to pay our rent and pay our online Spanish teacher without the need to leave the house. The fee is less than 50 cents for the service at both JEP cooperativo and Banco Guayaquil.
Thanks for sharing the additional info!
Hola JP and Amelia!! In addition to Schwab, Capitol One and Citibank has No foreign transaction fees on some of their accounts. Also, we made sure to have two separate US bank accounts to draw from just in case there was a problem with one or we lost our bank card etc we would have another to use as a back up. Another good idea is to renew your drivers license and passport just before your move☺️
Great suggestions! We use CapitalOne as our credit card because they don't charge international transaction fees. It's a really good idea to renew your passport before you get your visa, especially if your passport will expire before your visa. You don't want to deal with transferring it, and we've heard you may need to start the visa process over with the new electronic visa process. We haven't confirmed that yet, but better safe than sorry.
We use Radius Bank in the US for our debit card and we have a backup account like Tammy L. No foreign transaction fee and no monthly fee.
Hi guys, do you Know Discover card, no international transaction fee and most of the places accept that card, I know because When I am goint to Ecuador, always use mi Discover🙇♂️
@@AmeliaAndJP Ive had to renew my residents visa a couple of years back, your residents visa is valid for the life of your passport so starting with a new ish passport is a good idea. the visa renewal was less painful than renewing my US visas, ( I'm a brit hence the US visas) THe cedula is valid for 10 years, that needs to be current as well. if you try to open a new bank account or something it will cause a little grief.
Great video! Luckily I was watching you guys before I came here and you saved me from some of your pain:) A couple things to add. You have to pay your water bill in person, at least in smaller towns, I am not sure about the bigger cities. The bank lets you open up a savings account but it is VERY difficult to open up a checking account as well as to get a national Ecuadorian credit card. I have two savings accounts but the requirements for a checking account are ridiculous. Besides a Schwab ATM card, TD bank also lets you withdraw for free abroad as long as you have a minimum balance of $2500. I highly recommend having two ATM cards from two different banks and a bunch of different credit cards. The phone company Claro lets you auto-pay your phone bill only with an American Express card or if you have a checking account for more than four months, which is crazy. I hope that helps!
We paid our water bill at JEP in Cuenca and it's paid by our building HOA here. We just have a savings account and an ATM card with JEP. Do people still use checks in Ecuador? We've never seen one. Schwab doesn't have a minimum balance, so that's nice. Great advice on having multiple cards! We've been paying our Claro bill online using our JEP savings account since the quarantine started.
My wife and I have been researching living in Ecuador for several years and a friend just sent me your link.
Welcome to our channel!
Thanks for talking about the internet, really good information especially for those of us who make part of our living online. Hope you all are having a good 2021 so far
Thanks John!
You guy's are adorable, It really seems like your enjoying making these videos and living in Ecuador. thanks for all the tips.
If there ever was a country where I would gladly move to. It would be Ecuador. So I am vicariously living through you. Thanks for putting in the effort to post your experiences online, it's just beautiful to watch. Amelia and JP, You are much appreciated .
As of this time, I am not called to move there but Lord willing maybe that could change. If for some reason I start picking up Spanish I could take that as a sign.🙂
SALUDOS !! After 26 years I plan to return to live in my beautiful Cuenca.
When i was younger used to see this kind of videos thinking how someone could be interested but as a culture lover seeing You reviewing our culture is just lovely ! ❤️✨🇪🇨
Interesting to hear your experiences.
I recently saw an episode of 'House Hunters International' about a US family who moved to Cuenca (can't remember the date of the program but between one and three years ago). They had a boy and a girl (who they bribed by getting a dog) and moved to a downtown high-rise apartment. Maybe you came across them if they are still there.
A lot of Americans (Norte-Americanos) are surprised how much safer it is outside the US. I found that from Americans while living in Japan; they seemed almost annoyed to find how much safer it was there! Ditto re my original country of New Zealand.
Enjoy your life in Ecuador.
Norte,Am ,that would be here🇨🇦😉
Just to clarify a point, the term "chao" (spelled as it is spoken in Spanish) is NOT Spanish. Although it is widely used in most countries in South America the term is actually Italian. In other words, the locals have borrowed the term from Italian to use it as a form of parting salutation, a rather informal parting salutation that is. Never let anyone make you believe that is how to say bye in Spanish, because it is not. By the way, in Italian it is written as Ciao.
I just started watching your channel a week or so ago and I am already enthused about Ecuador as a potential retirement country. Obviously we would first want to come and stay for a moth or so to get a feel for the country but you've already laid the ground work for that. Thanks for sharing so much information and being so open about it all. I am working on my list of questions, observations and other preliminary matters already.
Hey!! I am from Colorado as well, but an expat for over a decade in Mexico! Cheers!! Thanks for the video! I enjoyed it a lot! :)
Namaste!
I've been to Ecuador and had thought about moving there, in the Olon area, but it didn't come about. I thought life was wonderful in Ecuador, just loved the food and the temperature! If I could have taken my whole family with me, I would be living there now!
I am still trying to get over Americans being open minded enough to, firstly, go and live in another country and secondly, realizing the necessity to adapt to the new environment. Congratulations!
This is pretty common, I know people to have left the US to live in Belize, Costa Rica etc
I lived in the Philippines for three years. Nearly died from sexual exhaustion. I am back in the land of size 16 women, no danger here in the US.
Living in Sweden for years. Have many American friends as well as Swedish. I think your negative view of us is what needs to be reevaluated.
@@KenHelsingborg I don't have to reevaluate anything. It is.
Hi guys, great video! We'd done so much research we really didn't have any issues leaving the US. The most annoying thing was the timing of pet shots and departure. We had 10 days from shot to plane and it was a little anxiety producing, but all turned out well. We did have to re-home our beloved Labradoodle because since the Max 8 planes were grounded there wasn't a large enough cargo height for her. The limit was 30" and she required 35". 😭 Our bank offered ATM reimbursement so that was no hassle. We still haven't opened an account here yet though, I don't know what we're waiting for.
Amelia, I feel your pain with hot flashes, but I went on HRT and am much happier! So is Pat, lol! 😆
Love you guys! 😘😘
Thanks for sharing Connie! Tell Pat I want some BBQ Sauce!
@@AmeliaAndJP Maybe we'll get to Olón one of these days! 😁
The coconut oil was liquid! 😭 oh to be in warm weather right now 🥶
How did you organized your pay Social Security and Pention? How and when you paid Taxes in USA?
During the late 1980's I spent some time in Manta, Ecuador at that time it was a very small fishing village, it was a wonderful simple life; It was around Christmas or New Years when they cook the entire pig under ground, it is the most delicious of all pork I have ever eaten so tender and tasty Having been raised along the Gulf Coast of Florida as a child it never dawned on me that in Ecuador the sun is super hot because of the Equator, I burned the upper part of my feet for the first time ever. Next we had delicious lobster, potatoes and salad as well as fish some days and finally we had to hop on the bus with wooden plank seats and open sides for our trip back to Quito, I really enjoyed the coast of Ecuador and the people. Today it is totally different with high rise fancy hotels.
HEMOS IDO A ECUADOR VARIAS VECES !!QUEDAMOS ENAMORADOS CON EL PAIS, TIENE TODO LO QUE UNO ASPIRA.
Too funny! I moved to Greece last year & had problems with my visa due to the virus. Was very scary for a while about maybe having to get kicked out. Last minute and many wonderful people here to help me through the transition !!
What's the cost of a Visa to live in Greece as "pensionista"? What is the minimum income requirement?
@@justinajones3000 Sorry I am married to a Greek Citizen. My Visa was around 100 Euro plus the small cost of a lawyer to help things through. I believe you need to show in an account of at least 30.000 Euros. Best way to go is google the exact requirements and make sure you are doing what Greece requires !!
@@MrBlaser51 Thanks for the quick reply. I am of Greek descent, moved out of the states to Colombia for lower cost of living, but I don't have a bank account with about $24,000 to qualify. But your intel was worth knowing.
@@justinajones3000 Please google the requirements because its different for different people. I could we wrong !!!
If you’re still making the same money you’re making in USA you can have a good life in our poor countries but local people living check by check whit pitiful wages it’s imposible to have all those commodities. That’s why we’re immigrating to USA 😭😭😭.
It's not a good reason to emigrate, sir. With all due respect, you should rather try to change the circumstances in your own country and fight if necessary instead of choosing the easy way out.
@@towaritch I dare you to live in a poor country in the same circumstances the population is living in. You don’t know what your talking about. You think that that dangerous journey to USA is an easy way out. I came to USA legally but left behind my children because they didn’t have a visa. I’ve been crying for years because I have missed part of their lives. For all of us is emotionally hard to make this decision but for many of my people is physically dangerous as well if they come illegally. It’s not an easy way out, it’s a desperate way out. Many of our political situation has been created by USA government. In one hand USA help whit charities but in the other one it screwing us up whit their policies. I’m living here for years, working hard, paying my taxes but I’m still poor, however, I’m able to financially support my children in my country and still have a decent life but as many Americans I can’t afford healthcare that’s why I said I’m still poor.
@@ermopa7633 Then fight your government if you think it doesn't give you opportunities to live a decent life. The majority of the people in 3rd world countries stay home and don't emigrate and so they can see their children grow up.
@@ermopa7633 "Many of our political situation has been created by USA government."
Lelz. You guys actually believe this.
"screwing us up whit their policies."
Such as?
@@ermopa7633 u have to do what's right for u. Good luck to you!
13:00 Ally bank also doesn't charge for ATM use internationally
I saw someone say they can get 200/200 fiber in Cuenca as of last year. Is there more than one fiber provider there?
There’s more than one internet provider in most developed areas like Cuenca but I’m not sure if they’re all fiber. We can get 200mb for $80/mo where we live now. www.netlife.ec/planes-hogar/
I really enjoyed your vid folks I’m thinking about moving down there
Great video! I lived in Ecuador in the early 80s for a few years! It was "!Chevere!" in every way! You make me want to go back! Keep the updates coming :)
Thank you!
My wife says "ahorita " . It translates to " in a bit " , but she means maybe later or maybe never.
Good to know, thanks!
Gracious for the information! very helpful. i never would have even thought of Ecuador but after watching your videos it is extremely enticing. so glad that i stumbled upon them. what is healthcare like in Ecuador? i have some health issues that require on going care nothing intense just some routine scans. is healthcare expensive in Ecuador? i know what you mean about the manana mentality. i live in Pennsylvania but i have had the privilege of working in a warehouse the last two years that employs i am guessing somewhere between 85 to 90% Hispanic people. most of which are from Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. they are definitely much more laid back about life than we here in the US are. at first i kicked against it especially when it came to work ethic but now i have come to accept it and i am sincerely glad for the friendships that i have made. plus it has been fun for me even at my age, i am 61, to learn the Spanish language from the people that i am working with. i have found Spanish people to be mostly very friendly people
We're very happy with the healthcare here and it is less expensive than in the U.S.
Hello Amelia and JP. You guys are an awesome and inspiring couple. I was born in Quito and have been living in Southern California for 23 years. I've been enjoy your videos and love seeing the pretty locations that I've never seen myself. The information you always provided is extremely helpful and makes me just want to be there. I've haven't been back to Ecuador in 15 years (doing too many cruises around the world) but all that's happen has made me think is time to go back. So thanks again for the wonderful videos and for showing others around the world how wonderful is Ecuador.
I'm curious what you're jobs are? You would like too get an idea so I can spend more time in Ecuador if I could work online.
We have a video about our jobs and online earning options: ua-cam.com/video/ntmkGq2Gn-4/v-deo.html
As in the Philippines, things are fluid! Good song from the 40's, "Mañana Is Soon Enough For Me!"
Good points to know. thank you YALL
I love that you say chao like the locals in Ecuador.
Gracias por compartir sus experiencias!
We are your opposites in a sense, a couple from South America living in the US... We learn a lot watching your videos (we may consider to retire in Ecuador come the time) and at the same time we laugh with some of your experiences because we went through them when we came here, reversed of course. Thanks again and keep them coming! 🙂
Thanks for demystifying those rumors. I myself felt quite safe there last year when I visited. Even in Esmeraldas. But you have to use common sense. Thanks very much for the sanity check!
Thank you, this was so informative, my husband and I are thinking on doing this next year
Glad it was helpful!
It was a pleasure to see and hear you couple so happy . Thank you both it is a pleasure.
Hi Amelia and JP! I could tell you had fun with this vlog! Remember guys, not all communities are created equal. No way to practice Spanish here in northeastern Montana. As far as safety in Cuenca...at least two years ago...I walked home alone from the Inca Lounge next to the river to my apt. by the flower market at 10:30 p.m. by myself. I felt perfectly safe. I might think twice now with all the pandemic craziness.
P.S. Amelia...I would imagine you're getting close to the end. I was 54 when it ended for me...such a wonderful gift! (Your comment about hot flashes)
You can also do Skype Spanish lessons with people who live in Ecuador using a site like this: spanishviaskype.com/. We haven't tried it, but we've heard good things.
@@AmeliaAndJP Aha! Now is your chance! Thanks for the idea!
@@kristybobby We both started working at 5:30am. I'm still working while Amelia is doing yoga. That's a typical day for us, with a couple beach walks thrown in for sanity. We're thankful to have income, but we don't have nearly enough time to study Spanish other than talking to our neighbors when we go outside. We probably have another year before we're earning enough to outsource some of the work and free up some of our time.
@@AmeliaAndJP No worries! I'm just teasing you!
@@kristybobby I keep beating myself up for not studying more, but given the current economic climate, maximizing our income while it lasts is more important. It's a sore spot for me because I really want to be fluent 😔
People who is considering to live abroad should consider to live in Turkey. There are lots of expat from Europe and US live in Turkey, Couples can live comfortable around 1200 US dollars which is way above mid class.
Great video. Thx for advice. Love that Ecuador is flexible. It sounds like a forward thinking country.
I visited Ecuador last August and loved it. I am a permanent resident of Peru, and just wanted to explore and found the coast to be really wonderful. . . I stayed in a very rustic, but cool place in Ayampe, up north from where you are now. . .I think you two would love it. You should go stay for a weekend there at an AirBnb. . . as there are some great ones there. I am enjoying your videos. . .good job of exporting the Expat life. Once the pandemia subsides I hope to visit up there again. Chau, chau!
We hope to spend some time in Ayampe! We've heard great things!
Great video! However, from my experience living in different parts of Ecuador security can be an issue. I personally suffered a number of threatening muggings and a violent break in. I agree, precautions are needed in any country. I live here in in Ireland and it too has its safety issues. However, I always felt that as a "gringo" I was more of a target for the criminal element in Ecuador. Just my experience - not everyones! Thanks again for the wonderful videos! Keep safe!
How long ago was that and in which city? The country has become a lot safer over the past 8 years.
@@AmeliaAndJP Amelia and JP, I was in Ecuador from 2007 until 2011; during my time there I lived and worked in Guayaquil, Quito and La Libertad, Santa Elena. Of the three locations, I personally felt less safe in Quito. It was there that I was accosted on the street on two occasions. My house was broken into in La Libertad. Like yourselves, I also was the victim of pickpocketing a number of times - mostly whilst on public transport. Take good care of your phone!! I also found that the Police force wasn't the best to deal with. Please forgive me if I'm been negative or have frightened you or others; my time in Ecuador was a fantastic experience and I would encourage anyone to move there. I still miss its beauty and people. Also, it's important to state that my work often brought me to areas that were notorious for high crime levels. As I said, that was only part of my experience there. As you have stated in your videos, you just need to take precautions and be security conscious - probably more so as a foreigner. My Ecuadorean wife always felt more nervous for my personal security that her own. She misses her country but feels safer here in Ireland than in Ecuador - we came to Ireland as we felt it was a better place for raising a child. I can't comment how Ecuador equates to the United States with regard to personal security -I get the impression it's similar. I look forward to your upcoming videos and wish you both every blessing in your new life.
Tom Byrne crime in Ecuador has been in significant decline since 2011 so you were here when it was more dangerous. Quito and Guayaquil are still the most dangerous cities in Ecuador, but to put that into perspective, they’re still safer than Chicago, Detroit and Baltimore.
@@tombyrne7784 I get what you’re saying, that period of time was the worst! But now, as the law keeps changing, I do see a brighter future for Ecuador though.
We are currently living in Denver and YES! Internet is soooooo bad in here, so people need to understand that it depends on where you are, internet connection is vary in US as well. Thank you for your videos.
Same on Spanish. I did Duolingo 1.5 times, watched Spanish class UA-cam videos, traveled here 7 times before moving here a year ago. I'm still in preschool after a year. I teach cello to 7 students. That is helping more than anything. But it will be many years before I am conversational I'm afraid.
Our Spanish skills have doubled since we left Cuenca. It was so easy to speak English there, but most locals only speak Spanish here so it forces us to use it more.
Tom: Try watching ONLY Spanish language TV, even for news. It will FORCE you to "pick up" the language. Also, it is VITAL that you THINK in Spanish - not English. Forming thoughts in English, and then translating them to Spanish, is FATAL to speaking the language. And another thing - avoid conversing with expats in English !
very informative video(s) and JP is a very formulate man...and I am not speaking of moving to Ecuador. Anyways, I lived in Thailand for about 3 months a year for about 9 years. Yes, geographically farther, but the national/culture difference is "tranquility" of the world-no where else like it. One of the aspects is the "western" living/mindset and when you balance that with what Thailand offers with the "counter" couture...pure and beautiful tranquility...and I would say a bit, maybe like 10% less than Ecuador. Sawadee Krup...is music to my ears...
I was a tourist in Sud America in 2000, for about 3 months, including about 2 weeks in Ecuador, mostly Quito. The 1st thing that surprised me was that the Ecuadorians use US $. I had been in Peru for the prior 2 months and got so used to what things cost in Soles, I converted $ to Soles in my head to determine if the cost was reasonable.
Me encanta su energía en sus videos. Disfruten mucho de Ecuador. Saludos desde Cuenca
I'm so glad you mentioned pets. I have 3 cats.
Thanks for another enriching and encouraging expat video. You did it again--you taught us some more important things about moving to Ecuador. I think I am going to have trouble with patience like Amelia did!
Glad it was helpful!
Best expat type couple and videos. We have committed to Mexico for 4 months starting this month, but we have decided to try Ecuador next year. Perhaps an exploratory trip in mid April 2022?
Speaking of hot flashes… what about Compouding medication pharmacies there? Like hormone replacement medications that are not chemicals but compounded naturally-? Anything like that? Like a “holistic doctor” office in USA…
Love you guys, so grateful for your content! This is my 2nd time watching this one, as I'm still going back and forth between Cuenca and a beach community. Question (a bit crazy, but I gotta ask anyway :). I understand Cuenca doesn't have a huge bug issue because of the altitude and cooler climate, but living near a beach at my age sounds so much better. Do you guys get a lot of bugs inside the house? Is there a natural bug repellant you recommend?
The bugs aren’t as bad as we were expecting. Mainly tiny sugar ants and fruit flies.
@@AmeliaAndJP That's good to know! Stay safe guys!
Great video! I lived in Costa Rica 3 years, very similar situations. Thanks for being so open and honest !
Nice work on this!
Thank you!
Thank you too!
GOOD LUCK...!!!!! Nice knowing you.
Thank you!
I love the way you see my home country. I see it the same way. Keep up your good work.
....i really admire you making this video.....it lends more legitimacy to ANY business/channel/person who's not afraid to admit "mistakes".........we all have a learning curve. Smart post.
Thanks! That was interesting and it made me feel great that you two seem so happy there!
I haven’t even watched this video yet but I’ve watched a ton of your other ones while researching places to live. You two make me want to come to Ecuador just so I can meet you! You’re great! Kind, funny, down to earth and real. Keep enjoying life, each other and making videos!
Hi guys we are planning to move to manta in 4 weeks house has sold from uk ect and just want to say your the inspiration behind our move I’m 26 husband is 32 and we are excited to finally enjoy life xx
That is awesome! Best of luck!
Such a wealth of information. Bless you
Maybe a little tour video on the services available and what is the local equivilant? I'm Canadian and was surprised to see how the Bank of Nova Scotia was in the Caribbean.
This was such a well thought out video and so informative on major issues. Wonderful work!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Very professional presentation ... well done.
I’m moving there soon
Always a big thumbs up 👍🏽 - your comments about mañana made me laugh out loud and brought back wonderful memories of living in Mexico for a couple of years; there too, EVERYTHING was Mañana! 😊 ciao.
Thank you! Enjoy you folks.
Thank you. This was excellent. Re learning a language, immersion is the best method
I'm new to your channel but I love you guys already because of driving to Miami to get your dog Daisy on the plane. What big hearts you have. :-)
Thank you!
I am from Colorado! I just subscribed to your channel. Good for you! I wish you the best! I only wanted to say that my parents were paying $1400 to rent a one bedroom apartment in a middle class part of town in the suburbs. What amenities did they get? Drugged out, homeless people wandering unlit streets at night and threatening to beat up older patrons at the neighborhood library during the day. And then when you made a complaint, you were told that you didn't understand other people's suffering. In other words, you did the right thing. I am sure that for $1400 a month, you could probably take out a mortgage in a nice, quiet, calm safe, and not to mention (un) politically correct part of Ecuador. Adelante!
Thank you for all of the information. I can't wait to move there.
Our pleasure!
Love Ecuador. Have spent quite a bit of time there.
Great video . Love your perspective living abroad.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I love the internet prices. Thanks for all the information. I wouldn’t walk alone at night in ANY PART of the world. For the most part. That’s just common sense
GREATNESS!!! AIR HUGS.
I used a Schwab account on my last trip to Europe. Great tip!
I truly appreciate your videos. They have answered a lot of questions. I subscribed to keep up with any info you care to share.
So, it's Nov 4, 2020...we're still not clear which direction this will go, but I'm sure I've given up on trying to love a country that's so divided. My only reservation is how well do you think my sons and I will be recieved? We are an interracial family (I'm black, kids are black/white). I'm nervous about if people are kind. Can you share any info on this? It would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Fred, people seem to be very welcoming here. We haven't heard of anything specific to interracial families but we do know several LGBTQ couples here and they haven't experienced any discrimination. Not the same the same I know but I think you'll be fine.
Hi, this is the 3rd video I have watched and I thoroughly enjoyed them. Normally I do not spend time watching videos about every Tom Dick and Susan, but you guys are delightful. You are both eloquent and fun to watch. I just subscribed even though Ecuador is not on my radar. Keep posting guys. Good luck to you both!
Thank you!
Hello .yes..both of ate correct .I'm from Ecuador .and .i.was completely..insecure of walking around Quito. And the rest if the Sierra villages..since I..havent been in Ecuador..for 15 yrs....🇪🇨
Thank you for your video. This will decide whether I move or not from the UK which isn't that safe anymore
Great information..... Thank you for your video. Are you back in Cuenca or still living in Olon ? How is the current Covid crises effecting your movements now ? I saw one of your recent videos about the Covid situation... are you still a form of "lock-down" with few mercado outings due to closure ? I hear that Ecuador is particularly suffering.
Best of luck to you both, I'm a recent subscriber. And I found it delightful that Amelia's recent birthday of the 18th is also mine ! Happy Birthday !
Thanks for your work to make the information available through your eyes.
As soon as I can and the Covid situation allows, I"ll be coming Ecuador-way to check it out. I'd be leaving beautiful Maine, but who knows ? Cheers, Terry
Most places are "yellow" light. Curfews, driving restrictions, masks required by law. I think Ecuador is treading water on the virus. Tremendous improvement in Guayaquil, but a big increase in Quito. I live in Riobamba. I think hospitals are at capacity.
It feels close to normal where we are. We haven't heard about a new case or death in our area in over a month. We have an 11pm to 5am curfew. It's worse in Cuenca and Quito right now.
@@AmeliaAndJP Cheers, thanks for the reply and information, great to have 'on the ground' feedback. You guys are great.
@@tomsaxton970 thank you for the update ! Good to hear from you 'on the ground', terrific info. Best of luck to you !
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Stay happy, flexible, relaxed and joyful.
I spent a great deal of time in Brasil working for a Brasilian company, and am familiar with the Manana attitude. I think you are both being overly harsh on yourselves (Amelia & JP) suggesting lack of patience is your "mistake". As a native New Yorker (You know what a NY minute is) I see this as essentially South American attitude. When working with my techs, it was always "cinco minutos por favor". After a few weeks I asked my tech, is that five American minutes or five Brasilian minutes? He smiled and asked me for a half hour. The time for them to perform is always later... It's up to us to continue to pursue. If they say tomorrow (Manana) ask them WHAT TIME TOMORROW and mention the date (August 15th, at what time?) When they are done, I tell them "Time is of the essence". That's a concept only a handful of executives will come equipped with unless they are from somewhere else. If you do NOT take a more aggressive tact with these folks about getting things done, you will have to do it all three times. Getting it done right the first time is not being rigid, it's being efficient. That is a good thing. This is why Americans excel at business IMHO.
Great info. Thanks for sharing.
Enjoyed your video. Out of curiosity, regarding banking, do you have HSBC in Ecuador? I live in Mexico and HSBC is very prevalent here. I have both an HSBC account in the U.S. and in Mexico, and it is really easy to transfer money between the two accounts, literally instantaneously. Regarding learning Spanish, I've been speaking Spanish off and on since I was kid, but before I made the move I started watching telenovelas and it really helped with the comprehension. Oddly enough, I read an article featuring a linguist, and that expert also recommended watching telenovelas. However, as you pointed out in your video, the best way to learn Spanish is actively conversing in it, not studying it. Studying it gives one the foundation, but actual use is the best method. Consequently, I'm extremely conversant in Spanish and hope to be fluent before I croak. LOL Saludos de Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
We haven’t seen many foreign banks here. No HSBC.
Telenovas is a great idea! So many times people come to the US saying they learned English from watching television!