Appreciate your of bservations on life in manta. St. Louis is just asfuc up as what you are talking about. Used to stay in Virginia beach by the ocean when my ship was in harbor. Nice life.
Don, great (and hilarious!) video. When I lived in Manta nearly 40 years ago, it was exactly the same. It’s a shame that with regards to culture, things haven’t improved. Thanks for sharing! 👍🏻
So Lima is more hospitable than Manta? Can you please share details? Traffic etiquette better/safer? Mañana syndrome? Service at restaurants? Public loudness? Terrible driving/parking? Do you have a recommendation for an English language expat in Lima? Elsewhere in Peru?
I am chilean living in Lima, nice people . Peruvians are very respectul with me. I think this city has made a lot of improvements the last decade. Traffic is chaotic , very bad, but good manners while walking across the sidewalk or going in and ot of an elevator. I am refering to the middle / high class areas , best restaurants , good mild climate, Not recomendation driving in Lima though , it is like crazy , but cheap public transportation and taxis. Pooping of dogs is fined , people have a lot of pets walking around with a plastic bag, in case of ? the low class people is another story, In General Terms a society searching for better quality of life , several of them speaks good level of foreign languages, at least in some areas of Lima . I am a businessman in agro-exportation of fruits. law supporting elderly is a must everywhere at banks, restaurants, waiting in lines , very respectul with abuelitos and abuelitas , silent people no noisy cellphones , but honking is a national sport , car driver do not respect pedestrians probably same as in Manta , that is my experience the last 12 months.
Wow, thank you! I visited EC and took a 4-day side trip to Chile. I was stunned. In EC if I needed help with something, an Ecuadorian was happy to help me if I asked. In Chile.......I didn't have to ask! Chileans volunteered assistance with things! One man in Valpo, who changed my money and helped me get a SIM card, took me on a 3-hour tour of his city! I could not believe the hospitality. I have a friend in Lima who loves it. Glad people pick up after their dogs, as they do not in EC. I am looking to expatriate from the USA and looking for a good place to land. The jury is still out, but ty so much for your comments. Please add more if you like. @@marcelodeSantiago
You crack me up!! I love watching your videos even though i know you’re telling the truth. If I need my laugh for the day I can come watch Don. Glad to see you got out for some music.
Mate, we may not agree on everything but man, I agree with you on all these points and I laughed my arse off at the way you described them all. Nice work mate! Seriously, I really enjoyed this. Cheers!
HaHaHa, YES, your observations are valid. My husband and I have been in Ecuador, living in the Andes about an hour south from Quito, for 6+ months now. I'm American and married to an Ecuadorian. We have lived in the USA all our married lives (36 years) and are now retired here. He too is feeling the culture shock of Ecuador. We do miss the organized, law-abiding traffic controls of the USA. We are amazed by the craziness of the drivers and those who stop their cars and trucks anywhere they please and block traffic in the process. But that's because there is such a lack of city planning. There are no parking areas provided for most stores that are built right up to the street. I have not seen a "traffic cop" enforce any "no parking" rules. Concerning the ability for a workman to keep an appointment...you are mostly correct about that too. There are exceptions and it's a great joy when they show up on time and are ready to help. You cannot depend on most workers to show up at the time they say they will, or to complete a project on time. Then there is the bureaucracy of accomplishing different paperwork. Half the employees in government offices don't have the right information you need and that starts you on a journey of discovery and great frustration and several trips to the same office to accomplish anything. Another thing we are used to in the USA is being able to return something if we change our mind about a purchase. Forget about returns here in Ecuador; they won't do it. Another topic is the complete lack of customer service in restaurants. However, the blessed exception is the dining experience at El Lenador in Cotacachi. It's always a lovely experience. Another topic you mentioned was transportation. We bought a truck about two months ago. It has been wonderful to be able to come and go as needed. We live in the countryside and are a long distance from markets and services. We needed our own transportation, and it has been a blessing. Now we can take excursions into other parts of the country or complete simple errands like shopping when needed. The bus system works well here, but I hate the intrusion of the vendors who enter the bus to sell things, and the loud cell phones of the other passengers who don't use earphones/buds, or loud violent movies being shown on the bus monitor. We had to take many long bus rides, before getting our truck, to get to government offices to process my residency visa. And, as I mentioned earlier, it takes several visits to these offices to get paperwork completed. It would always be an exhausting and frustrating day. After these 6+ months of life in the mountains of Ecuador, I guess you could say I'm getting used to it all. You spoke the truth when you said, "there is nothing you can do about it". The frustrations and disorganization of "the system" or "culture" is what it is. I suppose that anywhere outside of the USA is different from what I'm used to or what I would expect. We wish we could have remained in the USA for our retirement years. Familiarity of the culture makes things easier; for the most part. It's a difficult fact that financially it would be impossible. Our savings and social security is sufficient for Ecuador. We have many family members here that enrich our experience. Even they are aware of the challenges of the traffic and bureaucracy of their own culture & country, so we commiserate with them and that helps.
I am in shock as I thought I was the only one experiencing these problems. In my building a guy with this big dog would not move for me to get off the elevator and some girls the next time. When I said something he went ballistic. They dont seem to have any common sense. I also had a really loud partying neighbor for a few months. When he started up I went into the hallways and banged on his walls and door as the guards and admins do nothing. The sidewalk issue also burns me up because yes they block the sidewalks. I try and be very careful crossing the street in Quito. Also Ecuadorians are not dependable. They will say we can meet on a certain day then never follow through or call to set up a time or cancel. I have a great apartment but the daughter of my landlord in my building drives me crazy with maintenance. Either its my father is traveling, he is sick or busy, my nephew is sick or they forget. Then the 3 things they fixed are broke again as the old man wants to save money. So I got smart and paid the building maintenance a few dollars to fix them. She kept saying that they could not sign another lease until my old lease finished. BULLSHIT as I could end up homeless. I wanted to sign again 60 days early. They finally did so after sending me through hell. I really dont think the father knows she is such a pain but I am not sure. I love my apartment and the Carolina area. I pay very little rent but hopefully next year I will have learn to get around their bullshit. So I feel ya. Please dont say go watch Amelia and JP as thats an insult😝
It’s funny you mention them saying they were “travelling”. When I visited Cuenca in August, I had two realtors and one driver NOT keep their appointments, using the same excuse. It definitely seemed like a pattern of behavior that I quickly discovered. Glad to know I was correct.
@@darlinespring4066 Mine never made an appointment. She just had an excuse when I needed maintenance and I got tired of it. I asked her how would she feel if I used those excuses to pay the rent late. That its not fair to me and if her father is not available she needs to hire it done. The last time she said her nephew was sick yet 3 says later she and her mom were flying to the US.
@@darlinespring4066 and they wonder why they are still a third world country AND continent even though they are much older than the US. Do what I did...say I cannot pay the rent now AS I AM TRAVELING 😁
I hope when you made this video, you laughed half as much as I did watching it. I watched it twice. I was rolling at the crosswalk painting explanation. Well done.
The story about people rushing to get on and off the elevator is definitely true. It is exactly the same with exiting a bus or a plane. I was surprised the first few times. It is basically survival of the fittest to get to the exit of the bus or plane when it arrives. Customer service at restaurants is frustrating at times as well and really makes you appreciate your waiters/waitresses in the US who have a process of serving your drinks, checking back with you, asking if you need anything. You have to signal the waiter every time you want a coffee refill, glass of wine, napkin, your table doesn't have silverware, etc. You've said every thing I have been thinking about the timeliness and sticking to a schedule and the lack of safety as well.
Don, you need to put a warning on this video! We laughed so hard I went into a coughing fit and had to get a cough drop. Here in Cuenca it is the same on some things and a bit different on others. For sure, the family march down the sidewalk is true here. We find it amusing and either go on the street to get around if they are moving slow or stand to the side until they pass. They are oblivious to who or what is around them. The way you describe the elevator shuffle fits the Tranvia here. Somehow we all get on and off without anyone pushing or falling, but is is one of those Ecuadorian miracles. Same with traffic. We have yet to see a single fender-bender even though cars, motorcycles and the city busses drive like bats out of hell down these streets. They can sit patiently minding their little tienda or sidewalk sales spot, but get behind a wheel and the horn blowing begins. We cross the streets at any break in traffic-crosswalk or not. As you say its not like anyone is going to yield for a pedestrian. There was a worker putting up some decoration down at the Cathedral standing on the top plastic step of an 8’ ladder and reaching up as far as he could. Somehow he didn't fall, and we were all passing around the step ladder. In El Centro, for sure, Friday and Saturday nights can get pretty loud, but the real mystery (as I see RichardGraham commented on as well) are the near-never ending alarms. I have no idea what good they do. To the good, I have to say we’ve not experienced much in the way of bad customer service. The few restaurants that we frequent are all great. Same at Banco Guayaquil and JEP. I even offered a man clearly much older than me to go before me at the bank and he insisted I go. In many of the stores I have to say, "Solo estamos mirando." Then they leave us to browse otherwise they want to help. Our driver/facilitator friend, Victor Ojeda is always prompt. What a help he has been! EcuaAssist (Danna and Betsy) and YappaTree (Jason, Xavier and Estaban) are all great. Lastly, we have never lived anywhere with such rich cultural traditions. I've never seen so many parades. Cuenca is amazing! Thanks for the great laugh. You capture all the quirks of this culture to a "t."
Don, you are spot on, I've been here for 12 years and have an Ecuadorian wife who keeps me calm and often tells me to be quiet as she handles the situation. I could write a book on the nonsense you have to put up with living here. On the plus side, yes there are wonderful people here, my wife's family are genuinely wonderful souls. Okay, I'll stop now or I'll be writing my book on your website.
The good people here, while maybe being out numbered but the percieved bad make it all worth the effort to stick around. I remember more good people here than I do the bad. I don't have any memories from the states that make me feel passionate for the human race. People from NA are just f'd up and I'm glad I left when I did.
I APOLOGIZE ! I haven't walked in your shoes . My plane arrives in Cuenca aprox. mid December . May even move into the neighborhood you showed me (us) a couple years ago .
How refreshing Don 😂 I sure get your point. I am Swedish a I'll can't even count the amount of times I was so frustrated with things when I moved to America. No details lol. I'm in Mexico now. There are other frustrations here. People here actually stop for pedestrians, sometimes. People don't step in front of you in line but there is some religious fanatics shooting fireworks 247 to remind people which one of the 364 saints have birthday tomorrow. Drives me nuts. I am glad you are in Ecuador so I can learn more till the day I move there. And yes, I promise to take you out for breakfast, and I'll pay too.
Hi Don, I am an ecuadorian and completely agree with your very real "observations" which almost entirely refer to "uneducated people" culture. It is important to undersatnd that Ecuador, as other latin countries, have a larger percentage of non educated people (85% aprox) compared to educated people (15% aprox). In some cities, specially in the coast, like Manta, you will find more uneducated persons with unpolite behavior than in other cities. If you go to Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil probably you will find a better behavior in elevators, restaurants, parties, drivers. All this combination of educated (15%) and non educated (85%) persons comes from our history and the origins and evolution of our population. And one of the most important things that we need here is education, and that lack comes from centuries ago.
All 100 %true. I laughed my ass off because here in Riobamba, its the same. You started with the sidewalk thing, omg, it makes me crazy. I am a very fast walker and can't stand walking slowly. Cars, parking, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. I could talk hours. They double park here. Downtown Riobamba narrow streets, park your car in one lane and go shopping. The city has a $67.50 fine they posted on fb. But there is no one writing tickets. At a stoplight I was in a left turn lane. A bicycle was to my left. When the light changed, the bicycle cut right in front of my big car going straight. I almost hit him. Bicycles no lights at night, no bright clothing. A motorcycle ran into my front driver's side tire while I was pulling into the lane. He was trying to cut me off. I got out and helped him pick up is bike and he went on. So stupid! In stores in restaurants, I've been told its considered rude to approach without asking them too. So I just look at them and motion. I volunteer with the symphony here. If the flyer says the concert is at 7, we usually start about 7:30. They say come to rehearsal at 9am and be Puntual, the director who said be puntual will show up 9:30 or 10. Taxis less than 15 minutes late are punctual. So I usually order a taxi an hour earlier than I need them. If the are coming to pick you up at a certain hour and their car breaks down, they may or may not let you know they aren't coming or that they will be an hour late. I can't say that after 4.5 years I've gotten used to all this, but as you say Don, you can't change it. So, as best I can I've tried to adapt.🤷♂️ People here love to stand in doorways so you can't enter or exit 🤪 like your elevator narrative. People are so polite and kind until one of these things happen. I get road rage everytime some hinks their horn at a light even before it turns green. Thx for letting me vent.
After watching this video, I can surely say that here in Brazil, we have overcome most of these annoying...I here more horns in the U.S than here, just one example!
@@Hi-bt1ef Watch their latest video on minimalism. They sold everything they owned in Ecuador, gave up their apartment in Quito, and moved to Portugal with a few suitcases
You crack me up!!! I think even in the US we have cultural issues and problems. Lately it's becoming more important to be careful and look out for your own safety and just shake your head at the other humans and situations around you. Peace and love Don.
With the driving I just recently learned why it may be so insane. I was thinking about getting my driver's license and studying for the written test and road test and they told me to just skip all that and purchase my driver's license for a fee.
Miss your grumpy self and Stella. Hope to be home before too long. I forgot how slow medical care is here. You want an appointment ? We can see you February 12th. But I’m in a lot of pain! Go to the ER. At the ER they say;”you’re not dying: make an appointment with your doctor.” Get wimpy pain meds and call doctor. We can see you January 9th. Suuucckkks!
Don Shader tienes toda la razón en cada uno de los puntos que expusiste. Y eso que te faltaron muchos más: el escupir en la calle, el soltar a los perros a vagar y que hagan sus deposiciones en la calle, el arrojar basura en cualquier lugar incluso desde las ventanas de los autos, la basura en las calles y parterres, colarse en las filas con el consabido "yo estaba allí", estornudar y no taparse la boca ni la nariz, sonarse la nariz con las manos, limpiarse los oídos con el dedo meñique, en los semáforos los limpiaparabrisas ensuciando el auto, los autos cambiándose de carril, a las mujeres el acoso visual y verbal, la pésima atención al cliente con rostros parcos y maleducados, los locales comerciales de electrodomésticos a todo volumen con música espantosa y un largo etc, etc, etc.
Very interesting video, Don. As always, I appreciate your telling it like it is. I’m still planning to visit in January, but am concerned. The main reason I want to leave FL is because the people are so friggin rude. I’ve lived most of my life in SE US cities, and stupidly thought a small coastal FL town would be similar. I was so wrong. I run into rudeness, sometimes bordering on bullying, nearly every time I go out. Just so strange here. I’ve never experienced anything like it. I appreciate your honesty and directness. I’ll be looking at this more closely on my exploratory trip
The rudeness that I speak of here is not nearly as bad as in North America. But it does exist here and it's worth making note of but it's certainly NOT a show stopper. Come on down and take a break from NA.
@@mikeA2010It’s the locals, primarily. I was born in NY (though lived there only two years-grew up in the South). I can take the directness of NY et al, but can’t abide the rudeness of the locals. I’ve never lived anywhere like it, and pray I never do again.
If you don't like rude, then Ecuador is not for you. Going to the store, is like being in a store full of people with Dementia. They walk around with no clue how they go there or how to get back out of the store. lol
Let’s not forget about the people that let their dogs bark for hours on end, even though they are just inside the house, hearing it the whole time but they’re too stupid to notice. Sometimes the Tranquilo thing goes overboard. We even have a genius in the neighborhood in Quito, that must think a car alarm is a status symbol and plays with the fucking thing for an hour at a time. It’s a lack of intelligence. Let’s call it what it is.
Don...do you have problems with Ecuadorians not following through on things. Like they say they will call you or do something on a certain day or time then you never hear from them. Then when you see them again you want to tell them off but have to act normal.
Hi, Don when I think back of my exploratory trip to Ecuador, I must say I agree with most of the things you mentioned. Especially the fact that traffic doesn't stop when you have green light and are crossing the street. I remember crosiing from old town in Cuenca to Collegio Benino y Malo ( as I stayed near by). The crossing light was on, I started crossing and was almost hit by a public bus! But other than that other things you described did not bother me at all. And, in Cuenca, there are some restaurants where waiters were really nice, like in the US. I think you recommended some of them to me when I asked you in comments before my trip last year:) I would still highly reccomend Cuenca to anybody who wants to live or spend some time in Ecuador.
Wow, I'm a patient man . . but I was sitting here watching just saying yup, yup, yup. On the sidewalk people walking towards me 4 abreast . . I just stop in my tracks and let them walk around me. A common one for me is walking down the sidewalk and a driver turns into a driveway like you're not even there running over your toes.
Not even in the same universe. I’m in American living in Quito Ecuador. These things do not happen in the United States anywhere near to the extent that it does here. That’s an unfair comparison.
Ha-ha-ha 🤗🤗🤗 It's said that, when you start complaining about a place, that:s when you are home!! You've just described a lot of European countries here dear Don 🤗 Take care and, have a lovely day!!
You’re absolutely right. I think age has a lot to do with that. The younger generation is very inconsiderate, ignorant, and self centered while the older generation is the complete opposite. It’s a huge topic for discussion.
ha, ha,ha, fellow Gringo living here in Ecuador, and I can relate to all you have said. Got to make a list of the pro´s and cons. you forgot to mention the car alarms and people sitting in the cars with alarms going off as if its music, what the hell is that about?
Don, look on the bright side. If you persevere another two years to get citizenship, then you’ll have every right to butt in. Maybe head of the new Ministerio de Sentido Común is in your future!
It's not just Manta or even Ecuador. These things are common throughout Latin America! These things are real head-scratchers for us Gringos, but they just have different expectations and culture there.
Sounds like you had enough of that place ? Quite a variety of complaints ! Can't do a damn thing about those things either ? -- I'm sure Google has none of that ! -- I appreciate the absolute honest info we rarely get anywhere. I think I'm too fond of English to come there. If I go anywhere it might be the Philippines. None of the Spanish speaking countries appeal to me & I'm too old to learn it. I would just want a comfortable cheaper place to live than Biden's America where I am now ! Thanks for the honesty Don.
Very important episode for future expats Don, well done mate. Don and myself both live in Ecuador amongst the locals and don't hide blindfolded and protected in urbanisations. We see the true Ecuador 24 hrs per day. I also know some truly beautiful and genuinely good people here that I consider friends and family. This is only an observation from my perspective which could be entirely wrong. I haven't been everywhere or met everyone here so please take with a grain of salt. Ecuadorians are entitled to create the environment they want in their country. It appears they don't want a harmonious society where people have consideration and compassion for others. The Ecuadorian economy will never thrive with the "mañana" attitude. The majority of quality, construction, products and service are rarely above bare minimum. The hypocrisy of "people of god" who discard rubbish in public, destroy nature and have no respect for others. I am disappointed that I cannot survive within this filthy, disrespectful, selfish society and will leave asap. I have no ill feelings towards Ecuador as it is their country and I am not the authority to decide what is good and bad. Myself and Ecuador are incompatible and that's all. I encourage people to visit and live in Ecuador as it may be suitable for you. Good luck to all and thank you for the experience.
@@jessiesheldon-huffey1824 I totally agree with you. I am a stubborn person and I refuse to believe my limited experience so far truly reflects Ecuador. I have already adopted this country as my home and where I want to integrate into, accept and be accepted.
Wow!! Don, you just explained the Philippines. Same things. It boils down to no discipline. We've been disciplined since the day we were born but it's not like that in other countries. But the people are great. I'm from Canada and loving your videos. Will have to visit there some day.
Whelp, living in Cuenca full time since the end of March I can’t disagree with any of this. 🤣 one additional that I observed … parking on hills one should turn their wheels so if the car rolls it’ll roll into the curb to minimize possible carnage. Most people here don’t turn their wheels (not all that different from many parts of the USA to be honest) but the ones that do it have them turned so the car will just roll right into traffic. I’d say only 5% of the cars parked on a hill against a curb here are doing it right
The elevator thing is baffling. But i now just stand in the door and dont move until someone makes a pathway for me. With the waiters I think they are taught to not bother you while eating.
Small town problems. You'll often hear that people are ruder in big cities, but I think they actually have a higher level of education as far as manners are concerned. I've experienced this in Mexico, Spain, Italy, France and Turkey.
Hi, Don. You are correct about the lack of customer service in stores and restaurants, but I have a theory about that phenomenon. Since Ecuador has the lowest percentage of English speakers in Latin America, my theory is that they recognize you as a gringo but are uncomfortable with their English. So, they avoid interaction.
I bet you're right about that and that makes perfect sense to me. I do know that when I attempt to communicate with them, and I screw it all up, then laugh at myself, they laugh too. And that makes it all okay. Thanks for your feedback, I appreciate you. -ds
All true...and even though i m fully ecuadorian 67 is hard for me to get used to all this but i use this as a challenge to my realization of zen no mind attitude..😅 pasala bien Don we love you...nevertheless😂
Common sense is greatly lacking BUT they are also raised differently. I saw a little boy about 4-5 wander out on the street by himself to pee. It caught my attention that he was alone that young and peeing at the side of the street. When I got up there I then saw what I assumed was his mother and 2-3 friends socializing at a table just out of my view having lunch. I suspect they sent him out there so that didn't have to take him inside to pee. 🤷♂️ 🤷♀️ They also pee on the side of the bathroom building on the Malecon. I assume to save the .25 cents. Different culture here
I am sure if they existed he would. lol I live near where they have concerts on the weekend. Sounds like they're torturing cats, and that's what they call "music." This weekend they had a "symphony" it sounded like my brother's friends, when they were 10 trying to play instruments in the garage. I love Latin music, I have no idea what they play here. smh Art? The best you can find is in the museums from before the Spanish showed up. The Indigenous do a good job. But Ecuadorians themselves don't possess abstract thinking from what I've experienced.
Wow Don! Did I just hear you drop "an S bomb?" Lol...we will all give you a break cause we know this video got you all worked up, lol. Maybe a couple of beers before you do another culture video😅. Well, I live in Mexico and most of what you experience there seems pretty common in Latin América. One thing different here is the very aggressive driving and streams of raw sewage running through communities. I live by the ocean and wish I can say all I smell is sea and salt. If you live here, you would need 4 shots of tequila before you did a similar themed video lol Lookn forward to coming down there! Your videos ironically make me want visit sooner! Breakfast on me!
Donny you are so funny. Thank you for your honesty. Man tells it like he sees it. You should write a book…Etiquette for non gringos por favor. YOU bad mood…never. Grrrr…bite me 🤪
WOW ! Wish I had your problems !! My ocean view is only the view behind your back . Wouldn't consider suggesting you move away . Love watching a north american cry baby complain about how everybody in south america is not bending over back words to make his world more comfortable . Instead of excepting and incorporating the differences like Ace an Amelia an many other UA-camrs . Hope you find peace and happiness in your own being ! I'll be in Cuenca soon , Hope I don't run into you until after you have had a couple Hahaha !
@@davidgarner6736 That's because most of the expats here are poor and can't make it in America.It's a personal failure and they deal with it by shifting the blame.
You won’t wanna run into me after I’ve had a couple. Just saying. There’s nothing wrong with blowing off steam and commiserating with other Expats that live in the country and experiencing the same thing. That’s OK. You’ll see everything he discussed if you actually come here.
I have to say there is a lack of perceived respect is different from disrespect. For instance in the US people with large vehicles pulling past the stop line so when you are trying to take a right on red you cannot see around them. I pointed it out to my father when he did it and he said he had no idea. There is actual disrepect. No one can deny that when a new register opens and the cashier actually pulls someone to be their first customer and three people shove ahead that they don't know what they are doing. But I like the people here and, for the most part, just smile and shake it off. Ecuador has afforded me all the time in the world. I just pretend all the honking is for my sweet bod! Lmao.
This video explains a lot about foreign people who come here to the US. They throw trash down on the ground without pause, drive like there are no laws, and are rude and uncouth in general.
@@sinnombre3855, Let's not be coy. We both know that the refugees and immigrants who most raise the ire of Americans come not from Norway, Switzerland, or Australia, but rather across the southern border from Mexico, Central America, and South America. In short, they are Latinos. I'm sorry if it troubles you, but I will call out racism where I see it.
@@gitsome7118, only a racist would think that merely because someone is born into a particular race or ethnic heritage, it means that they throw trash on the ground, ignore laws, and are rude. There are plenty of Latinos of class and culture, just as there are plenty of Americans who lack class and culture. I have no interest in discussing this topic further with you. You can have the last word.
Oh wow! Thats all I have to say bout this video. Except: "Grumpy old Gringo" strikes again!! LOL. My wife and I were there in Manta in 2020 for 30 days to scope out a place to retire. Nope, not the place for us. Never heard so much loud music ALL night, every night. We realized The U.S. is pretty much the safest place on the planet for us. Blessings on you Don. We hope one day to return and actually have breakfast with you. Unlike Amelia and JP!
Your best spot on video to date. I agree 100%. This rudeness is taught to the children by their parents so I don’t expect any changes anytime soon. Nice people but rude.
And one more thing…. When a man or woman gets behind the wheel of their car, their main objective is to pass the person in front of them (motorcycles want to pass the next 10 people in front of them). But on the sidewalk or in any store or mall, it is how slow can I walk and some of them are carrying their helmets in their hands. I don’t get it!
I'm sorry their culture is so irritating. It's one of the reasons I hesitate moving there. But, I like a lot of solitude so maybe it wouldn't be so bad for me. Anyway, keep giving it to us straight brother.
unfortunately it's getting the same way here in the US. I was at a grocery store and this lady had already unloaded all her stuff on the belt to be checked. I am behind her. She then decides that she got the wrong thing and walks away because it's "just over there". Her husband walks up and tells them to go ahead and check them out. They ring it all up and right at the end when he's paying she shows up with whatever it was she had to have. Then she proceeds to have a discussion with HIM about how they were supposed to pay for things separated, and how it was bagged, etc... Finally they pay and start to move on. As I pay and start to walk out, she is standing there in the way, still perusing something or other not moving.. I was just flabbergasted at her lack of awareness of what was going on around her. It was like she was in her own crazy reality where there were no other people around. I am in SWFL and there are lots and lots of people from Latin America and South America so I think it's that culture spreading. Funny part is that these people were obviously white, English Speaking. Just acting entitled. I know people say that the Hispanic people are kind and friendly, but this and what you describe is just rude. The elevator thing drives me fricken NUTS.
So, that's what goes for "culture" in Ecuador, I was wondering. lol I've had a few men pull into a driveway area, as I'm walking across it, then honk. I walk over, tap on the window, make them roll it down and I ask them what their problem is? They either try to ignore me (which is never a good idea) or acted all embarrassed, one tried to get out of his car. I told him, if you get out, you won't be getting back in. I had an Ecuadorian ask me how long I had been in Ecuador. I told him, I'd been here about a year. He said, "And, you don't speak Spanish, yet?" I looked at him and asked him, "You use our indoor bathrooms, washer and dryers, tv's, radio, computers, Internet, wear our clothes, drive our cars, and even use our damn money and have been doing it for more than 20 years and you don't speak English?" smh What I've discovered, is they don't really have a culture. They have appropriated ours, even their Cathedrals are leftovers of the Spanish, which they ran out about 200 years ago. (at least that's their story...I suspected the Spanish gave up and went home. lol) Having dealt with their "maestros" I can tell you, that they don't have the ability for abstract thinking. They can't problem-solve. All they can do is copy what they've seen, and they don't even do that very well. It's like they've watched old movies from the 50's of what the U.S. is like and have tried to copy it, without really understanding what is going on. Their "fast food" places are always amusing to watch. They look like movie sets. They watched the movies and saw that people stand behind the counter but they really don't know what else they're supposed to do. I visit Batan often and some of their "fast food" places may get one or two customers a day. The pizza place is always out of pizza. The London Pub takes forever to make their food. (I suspect they order it from another place and have it delivered). The hot dog place rarely gets anyone. And Dunkin' Donuts is out of Donuts by 11:30 and the guy just sits there the rest of the day. lol The reason why these people are poor is because they really have no clue about how business works. They all have these "pretend" businesses. They remind me of kids playing a game of pretend. I have some Venezuelan friends and they too shake their heads and believe the Ecuadorians are crazy. They say, "Everything is upside down, here." So, it's not just us Expats who shake our heads and wonder, how the hell do they even survive? lol
I like your attitude. I too fight with cars in Cuenca as a runner. They are first in shock and then become angry that I object to attempted murder. Not sure I can agree on the Venezuelans though. Every time I see them in public they are talking loudly and creating a scene. Once the police were called because one of them pushed over a motorcycle.
Valarie, OMG you hit that nail square on the head. Thank you for speaking up. I agree 100% with your assessment. I'm keeping this response in my archives and might even do a follow up video with it. Please keep in touch.
If you’re referring to Don’s takes on Ecuadorian culture, then you’re wrong. I live in Europe and people here are way more slow paced than in Ecuador, they just have a better economy that’s it. South America’s leisure and family centered culture is mostly Spanish and Portuguese heritage, unlike in the US where you have more of an individual centered, fast paced culture
Another great video Don.That’s how it works and there’s absolutely nothing you can do about it. In many cities in So. America they have a fascination with horns, I’ve seen taxi drivers in Lima blowing the horn to the traffic lights!!! Cutting you off is a national sport pretty much. The funny thing is that when they come to the US and drive a car, they do the exact opposite and that’s because the LAW works here. south America is a “me, me, me” culture. They have absolutely no respect for the rest. Worst thing that an expat can do is try to fix the culture, it’s an exercise in futility and the locals will be upset if you try. Still, I plan to retire in Peru basically because most of my family is there, I’ll have to re adapt to the culture but its just a matter of time before i start cutting in line, play loud music until 3am and cutting off other drivers in traffic! Hey if u can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!!
It’s so refreshing to hear honest talk! ❤
Hi Don, thanks for publishing this with Spanish subtitles! I'm like # 313 of this video.
I appreciate your transparency
Appreciate your of bservations on life in manta. St. Louis is just asfuc up as what you are talking about.
Used to stay in Virginia beach by the ocean when my ship was in harbor. Nice life.
Don, great (and hilarious!) video. When I lived in Manta nearly 40 years ago, it was exactly the same. It’s a shame that with regards to culture, things haven’t improved.
Thanks for sharing! 👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it.
Hey Don, it's Paul. I'm in Lima, Peru, and it is great. Super clean and the weather is great. I have to say I don't miss Manta
So Lima is more hospitable than Manta? Can you please share details? Traffic etiquette better/safer? Mañana syndrome? Service at restaurants? Public loudness? Terrible driving/parking? Do you have a recommendation for an English language expat in Lima? Elsewhere in Peru?
Not sure where this person is referring to. Nothing about Lima is better than Manta. Many years experience there.
Paul mentioned he is in Lima and doesn't miss Manta, thus the question.Ty for your response. Gives me perspective.
@@davidgarner6736
I am chilean living in Lima, nice people . Peruvians are very respectul with me. I think this city has made a lot of improvements the last decade. Traffic is chaotic , very bad, but good manners while walking across the sidewalk or going in and ot of an elevator. I am refering to the middle / high class areas , best restaurants , good mild climate, Not recomendation driving in Lima though , it is like crazy , but cheap public transportation and taxis. Pooping of dogs is fined , people have a lot of pets walking around with a plastic bag, in case of ? the low class people is another story, In General Terms a society searching for better quality of life , several of them speaks good level of foreign languages, at least in some areas of Lima . I am a businessman in agro-exportation of fruits. law supporting elderly is a must everywhere at banks, restaurants, waiting in lines , very respectul with abuelitos and abuelitas , silent people no noisy cellphones , but honking is a national sport , car driver do not respect pedestrians probably same as in Manta , that is my experience the last 12 months.
Wow, thank you! I visited EC and took a 4-day side trip to Chile. I was stunned. In EC if I needed help with something, an Ecuadorian was happy to help me if I asked. In Chile.......I didn't have to ask! Chileans volunteered assistance with things! One man in Valpo, who changed my money and helped me get a SIM card, took me on a 3-hour tour of his city! I could not believe the hospitality. I have a friend in Lima who loves it. Glad people pick up after their dogs, as they do not in EC. I am looking to expatriate from the USA and looking for a good place to land. The jury is still out, but ty so much for your comments. Please add more if you like. @@marcelodeSantiago
Good For You Don, tell it just like it is! Thank You...KC
You crack me up!! I love watching your videos even though i know you’re telling the truth. If I need my laugh for the day I can come watch Don. Glad to see you got out for some music.
I appreciate that.
Mate, we may not agree on everything but man, I agree with you on all these points and I laughed my arse off at the way you described them all. Nice work mate! Seriously, I really enjoyed this. Cheers!
Thanks so much, I appreciate you.
Solid review
You have thoroughly convinced me not to move to Ecuador even though I've always dreamed of living near the equator.
Sorry. Stay where you are. I guess you'll be unsubscribing now?
LOOOOL as an Ecuadorian i also HATE the elevator situation in Manta’s Megamaxi😂😂😂😂😂
I also get mad whenever they have their kids making the line for them. I say NOPE, I am not letting you do that today i am on a hurry😂
HaHaHa, YES, your observations are valid. My husband and I have been in Ecuador, living in the Andes about an hour south from Quito, for 6+ months now. I'm American and married to an Ecuadorian. We have lived in the USA all our married lives (36 years) and are now retired here. He too is feeling the culture shock of Ecuador. We do miss the organized, law-abiding traffic controls of the USA. We are amazed by the craziness of the drivers and those who stop their cars and trucks anywhere they please and block traffic in the process. But that's because there is such a lack of city planning. There are no parking areas provided for most stores that are built right up to the street. I have not seen a "traffic cop" enforce any "no parking" rules.
Concerning the ability for a workman to keep an appointment...you are mostly correct about that too. There are exceptions and it's a great joy when they show up on time and are ready to help. You cannot depend on most workers to show up at the time they say they will, or to complete a project on time.
Then there is the bureaucracy of accomplishing different paperwork. Half the employees in government offices don't have the right information you need and that starts you on a journey of discovery and great frustration and several trips to the same office to accomplish anything.
Another thing we are used to in the USA is being able to return something if we change our mind about a purchase. Forget about returns here in Ecuador; they won't do it.
Another topic is the complete lack of customer service in restaurants. However, the blessed exception is the dining experience at El Lenador in Cotacachi. It's always a lovely experience.
Another topic you mentioned was transportation. We bought a truck about two months ago. It has been wonderful to be able to come and go as needed. We live in the countryside and are a long distance from markets and services. We needed our own transportation, and it has been a blessing. Now we can take excursions into other parts of the country or complete simple errands like shopping when needed. The bus system works well here, but I hate the intrusion of the vendors who enter the bus to sell things, and the loud cell phones of the other passengers who don't use earphones/buds, or loud violent movies being shown on the bus monitor. We had to take many long bus rides, before getting our truck, to get to government offices to process my residency visa. And, as I mentioned earlier, it takes several visits to these offices to get paperwork completed. It would always be an exhausting and frustrating day.
After these 6+ months of life in the mountains of Ecuador, I guess you could say I'm getting used to it all. You spoke the truth when you said, "there is nothing you can do about it". The frustrations and disorganization of "the system" or "culture" is what it is. I suppose that anywhere outside of the USA is different from what I'm used to or what I would expect. We wish we could have remained in the USA for our retirement years. Familiarity of the culture makes things easier; for the most part. It's a difficult fact that financially it would be impossible. Our savings and social security is sufficient for Ecuador. We have many family members here that enrich our experience. Even they are aware of the challenges of the traffic and bureaucracy of their own culture & country, so we commiserate with them and that helps.
At the crossing zebra
Cars will not stop for you in Quebec Canada
You are honest unlike some sugar coaters and their little local business clicks
I tell folks that if they want something sugar coated, go buy a donut.
I am in shock as I thought I was the only one experiencing these problems. In my building a guy with this big dog would not move for me to get off the elevator and some girls the next time. When I said something he went ballistic. They dont seem to have any common sense. I also had a really loud partying neighbor for a few months. When he started up I went into the hallways and banged on his walls and door as the guards and admins do nothing. The sidewalk issue also burns me up because yes they block the sidewalks. I try and be very careful crossing the street in Quito. Also Ecuadorians are not dependable. They will say we can meet on a certain day then never follow through or call to set up a time or cancel. I have a great apartment but the daughter of my landlord in my building drives me crazy with maintenance. Either its my father is traveling, he is sick or busy, my nephew is sick or they forget. Then the 3 things they fixed are broke again as the old man wants to save money. So I got smart and paid the building maintenance a few dollars to fix them. She kept saying that they could not sign another lease until my old lease finished. BULLSHIT as I could end up homeless. I wanted to sign again 60 days early. They finally did so after sending me through hell. I really dont think the father knows she is such a pain but I am not sure. I love my apartment and the Carolina area. I pay very little rent but hopefully next year I will have learn to get around their bullshit. So I feel ya. Please dont say go watch Amelia and JP as thats an insult😝
It’s funny you mention them saying they were “travelling”. When I visited Cuenca in August, I had two realtors and one driver NOT keep their appointments, using the same excuse. It definitely seemed like a pattern of behavior that I quickly discovered. Glad to know I was correct.
@@darlinespring4066 Mine never made an appointment. She just had an excuse when I needed maintenance and I got tired of it. I asked her how would she feel if I used those excuses to pay the rent late. That its not fair to me and if her father is not available she needs to hire it done. The last time she said her nephew was sick yet 3 says later she and her mom were flying to the US.
Amelia and JP left I am glad they having other great experiences. Such a wonderful channel. Learnt lots from them.
@@darlinespring4066 and they wonder why they are still a third world country AND continent even though they are much older than the US. Do what I did...say I cannot pay the rent now AS I AM TRAVELING 😁
I hope when you made this video, you laughed half as much as I did watching it. I watched it twice. I was rolling at the crosswalk painting explanation. Well done.
I actually have fun making these. Thanks for watching.
The culture diverse from the coast and the andes the cites and the country siders. And I guess the cultural level
The story about people rushing to get on and off the elevator is definitely true. It is exactly the same with exiting a bus or a plane. I was surprised the first few times. It is basically survival of the fittest to get to the exit of the bus or plane when it arrives. Customer service at restaurants is frustrating at times as well and really makes you appreciate your waiters/waitresses in the US who have a process of serving your drinks, checking back with you, asking if you need anything. You have to signal the waiter every time you want a coffee refill, glass of wine, napkin, your table doesn't have silverware, etc. You've said every thing I have been thinking about the timeliness and sticking to a schedule and the lack of safety as well.
Don, they honk at you because you are a celebrity.
THAT'S what it is. I keep forgetting. My dumb ass.
@@DonShaderremember the bumper sticksers "Honk if you are horny"???
With my luck, either I’d get arrested or some dumb ass old hag expat would be the one behind me. We don’t want that.
If you think the honking is bad in Manta, it’s because you haven’t tried driving in guayaquil!
Don, you need to put a warning on this video! We laughed so hard I went into a coughing fit and had to get a cough drop. Here in Cuenca it is the same on some things and a bit different on others. For sure, the family march down the sidewalk is true here. We find it amusing and either go on the street to get around if they are moving slow or stand to the side until they pass. They are oblivious to who or what is around them. The way you describe the elevator shuffle fits the Tranvia here. Somehow we all get on and off without anyone pushing or falling, but is is one of those Ecuadorian miracles. Same with traffic. We have yet to see a single fender-bender even though cars, motorcycles and the city busses drive like bats out of hell down these streets. They can sit patiently minding their little tienda or sidewalk sales spot, but get behind a wheel and the horn blowing begins.
We cross the streets at any break in traffic-crosswalk or not. As you say its not like anyone is going to yield for a pedestrian. There was a worker putting up some decoration down at the Cathedral standing on the top plastic step of an 8’ ladder and reaching up as far as he could. Somehow he didn't fall, and we were all passing around the step ladder. In El Centro, for sure, Friday and Saturday nights can get pretty loud, but the real mystery (as I see RichardGraham commented on as well) are the near-never ending alarms. I have no idea what good they do.
To the good, I have to say we’ve not experienced much in the way of bad customer service. The few restaurants that we frequent are all great. Same at Banco Guayaquil and JEP. I even offered a man clearly much older than me to go before me at the bank and he insisted I go. In many of the stores I have to say, "Solo estamos mirando." Then they leave us to browse otherwise they want to help. Our driver/facilitator friend, Victor Ojeda is always prompt. What a help he has been! EcuaAssist (Danna and Betsy) and YappaTree (Jason, Xavier and Estaban) are all great. Lastly, we have never lived anywhere with such rich cultural traditions. I've never seen so many parades. Cuenca is amazing!
Thanks for the great laugh. You capture all the quirks of this culture to a "t."
I'm glad I could help Tom. I'm glad you got over the cough.
Don, you are spot on, I've been here for 12 years and have an Ecuadorian wife who keeps me calm and often tells me to be quiet as she handles the situation. I could write a book on the nonsense you have to put up with living here. On the plus side, yes there are wonderful people here, my wife's family are genuinely wonderful souls. Okay, I'll stop now or I'll be writing my book on your website.
The good people here, while maybe being out numbered but the percieved bad make it all worth the effort to stick around.
I remember more good people here than I do the bad.
I don't have any memories from the states that make me feel passionate for the human race.
People from NA are just f'd up and I'm glad I left when I did.
You're lucky.
I APOLOGIZE ! I haven't walked in your shoes . My plane arrives in Cuenca aprox. mid December . May even move into the neighborhood you showed me (us) a couple years ago .
How refreshing Don 😂
I sure get your point. I am Swedish a I'll can't even count the amount of times I was so frustrated with things when I moved to America. No details lol. I'm in Mexico now. There are other frustrations here. People here actually stop for pedestrians, sometimes. People don't step in front of you in line but there is some religious fanatics shooting fireworks 247 to remind people which one of the 364 saints have birthday tomorrow. Drives me nuts.
I am glad you are in Ecuador so I can learn more till the day I move there. And yes, I promise to take you out for breakfast, and I'll pay too.
I'm gonna hold you to that my friend.
What in the US frustrated you?
@@Hi-bt1efnothing.
@@DonShader I was talking to the OP. They said that many things in America frustrated them
Hi Don ❤ I hope you have had a beautiful weekend. Hugs
Hi Don, I am an ecuadorian and completely agree with your very real "observations" which almost entirely refer to "uneducated people" culture. It is important to undersatnd that Ecuador, as other latin countries, have a larger percentage of non educated people (85% aprox) compared to educated people (15% aprox). In some cities, specially in the coast, like Manta, you will find more uneducated persons with unpolite behavior than in other cities. If you go to Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil probably you will find a better behavior in elevators, restaurants, parties, drivers. All this combination of educated (15%) and non educated (85%) persons comes from our history and the origins and evolution of our population. And one of the most important things that we need here is education, and that lack comes from centuries ago.
All 100 %true. I laughed my ass off because here in Riobamba, its the same. You started with the sidewalk thing, omg, it makes me crazy. I am a very fast walker and can't stand walking slowly. Cars, parking, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. I could talk hours. They double park here. Downtown Riobamba narrow streets, park your car in one lane and go shopping. The city has a $67.50 fine they posted on fb. But there is no one writing tickets. At a stoplight I was in a left turn lane. A bicycle was to my left. When the light changed, the bicycle cut right in front of my big car going straight. I almost hit him. Bicycles no lights at night, no bright clothing. A motorcycle ran into my front driver's side tire while I was pulling into the lane. He was trying to cut me off. I got out and helped him pick up is bike and he went on. So stupid! In stores in restaurants, I've been told its considered rude to approach without asking them too. So I just look at them and motion. I volunteer with the symphony here. If the flyer says the concert is at 7, we usually start about 7:30. They say come to rehearsal at 9am and be Puntual, the director who said be puntual will show up 9:30 or 10. Taxis less than 15 minutes late are punctual. So I usually order a taxi an hour earlier than I need them. If the are coming to pick you up at a certain hour and their car breaks down, they may or may not let you know they aren't coming or that they will be an hour late. I can't say that after 4.5 years I've gotten used to all this, but as you say Don, you can't change it. So, as best I can I've tried to adapt.🤷♂️ People here love to stand in doorways so you can't enter or exit 🤪 like your elevator narrative. People are so polite and kind until one of these things happen. I get road rage everytime some hinks their horn at a light even before it turns green. Thx for letting me vent.
Don is looking good especially with the beautiful ocean background. Here I sit freezing myself to death in Gilroy, CA.
Thank you, Don for your candid perspective. I’m about six months out and this stuff is reallyvgood to know. Take Care.
After watching this video, I can surely say that here in Brazil, we have overcome most of these annoying...I here more horns in the U.S than here, just one example!
Great vid Don! Value and humor packaged together nicely. 😅 (I know, my turn's coming).
JP & Amelia already bailed on Ecuador and moved to Europe
Did they? Conned everyone into coming to Ecuador and then left. Figures.
All the YT’ers run out of content eventually and move. But I would be surprised if they stayed in Europe because of the high taxes.
No they didn't. They travel but are still in Quito
@@Hi-bt1ef Watch their latest video on minimalism. They sold everything they owned in Ecuador, gave up their apartment in Quito, and moved to Portugal with a few suitcases
You crack me up!!! I think even in the US we have cultural issues and problems. Lately it's becoming more important to be careful and look out for your own safety and just shake your head at the other humans and situations around you. Peace and love Don.
With the driving I just recently learned why it may be so insane. I was thinking about getting my driver's license and studying for the written test and road test and they told me to just skip all that and purchase my driver's license for a fee.
Go for it!
Miss your grumpy self and Stella. Hope to be home before too long.
I forgot how slow medical care is here. You want an appointment ? We can see you February 12th. But I’m in a lot of pain! Go to the ER. At the ER they say;”you’re not dying: make an appointment with your doctor.” Get wimpy pain meds and call doctor. We can see you January 9th.
Suuucckkks!
Thanks, I enjoyed this! I needed a good laugh. :)
Glad you enjoyed it!
Please Don we love your video you are teaching the whole world. ❤️
Don Shader tienes toda la razón en cada uno de los puntos que expusiste. Y eso que te faltaron muchos más: el escupir en la calle, el soltar a los perros a vagar y que hagan sus deposiciones en la calle, el arrojar basura en cualquier lugar incluso desde las ventanas de los autos, la basura en las calles y parterres, colarse en las filas con el consabido "yo estaba allí", estornudar y no taparse la boca ni la nariz, sonarse la nariz con las manos, limpiarse los oídos con el dedo meñique, en los semáforos los limpiaparabrisas ensuciando el auto, los autos cambiándose de carril, a las mujeres el acoso visual y verbal, la pésima atención al cliente con rostros parcos y maleducados, los locales comerciales de electrodomésticos a todo volumen con música espantosa y un largo etc, etc, etc.
It's simple. Some people in some places never learned the basic manners and courtesy that others were taught.
Very interesting video, Don. As always, I appreciate your telling it like it is. I’m still planning to visit in January, but am concerned. The main reason I want to leave FL is because the people are so friggin rude. I’ve lived most of my life in SE US cities, and stupidly thought a small coastal FL town would be similar. I was so wrong. I run into rudeness, sometimes bordering on bullying, nearly every time I go out. Just so strange here. I’ve never experienced anything like it.
I appreciate your honesty and directness. I’ll be looking at this more closely on my exploratory trip
The rudeness that I speak of here is not nearly as bad as in North America. But it does exist here and it's worth making note of but it's certainly NOT a show stopper. Come on down and take a break from NA.
Rude? Maybe cause all the new Yorkers have moved there to florida?
@@mikeA2010It’s the locals, primarily. I was born in NY (though lived there only two years-grew up in the South). I can take the directness of NY et al, but can’t abide the rudeness of the locals. I’ve never lived anywhere like it, and pray I never do again.
@@DonShaderI know it can’t be any worse!
If you don't like rude, then Ecuador is not for you. Going to the store, is like being in a store full of people with Dementia. They walk around with no clue how they go there or how to get back out of the store. lol
Let’s not forget about the people that let their dogs bark for hours on end, even though they are just inside the house, hearing it the whole time but they’re too stupid to notice. Sometimes the Tranquilo thing goes overboard. We even have a genius in the neighborhood in Quito, that must think a car alarm is a status symbol and plays with the fucking thing for an hour at a time. It’s a lack of intelligence. Let’s call it what it is.
Don...do you have problems with Ecuadorians not following through on things. Like they say they will call you or do something on a certain day or time then you never hear from them. Then when you see them again you want to tell them off but have to act normal.
That's the way of life here.
Hi, Don when I think back of my exploratory trip to Ecuador, I must say I agree with most of the things you mentioned. Especially the fact that traffic doesn't stop when you have green light and are crossing the street. I remember crosiing from old town in Cuenca to Collegio Benino y Malo ( as I stayed near by). The crossing light was on, I started crossing and was almost hit by a public bus! But other than that other things you described did not bother me at all. And, in Cuenca, there are some restaurants where waiters were really nice, like in the US. I think you recommended some of them to me when I asked you in comments before my trip last year:) I would still highly reccomend Cuenca to anybody who wants to live or spend some time in Ecuador.
I agree Alex. Cuenca is a wonderful to be. I just wish I could breathe comfortably there.
Wow, I'm a patient man . . but I was sitting here watching just saying yup, yup, yup. On the sidewalk people walking towards me 4 abreast . . I just stop in my tracks and let them walk around me. A common one for me is walking down the sidewalk and a driver turns into a driveway like you're not even there running over your toes.
Hi Don, This is actually what is happening in the good old US of A, so it is not just happening in Ecuador.
Not even in the same universe. I’m in American living in Quito Ecuador. These things do not happen in the United States anywhere near to the extent that it does here. That’s an unfair comparison.
You need to come back to the USa and see what I mean.@@gitsome7118
@@gitsome7118Thank you.
Ha-ha-ha 🤗🤗🤗
It's said that, when you start complaining about a place, that:s when you are home!!
You've just described a lot of European countries here dear Don 🤗
Take care and, have a lovely day!!
Loved your presentation.
I was ROGLOL 😅
Interesting how happy and nice the people seem on one side but completely inconsiderate on the other. It’s a head scratcher…
You’re absolutely right. I think age has a lot to do with that. The younger generation is very inconsiderate, ignorant, and self centered while the older generation is the complete opposite. It’s a huge topic for discussion.
ha, ha,ha, fellow Gringo living here in Ecuador, and I can relate to all you have said. Got to make a list of the pro´s and cons.
you forgot to mention the car alarms and people sitting in the cars with alarms going off as if its music, what the hell is that about?
I was amazingly amused at a girl last week that opened her car door, the alarm went off and it contnued as she drove away.
Yes people like to live where the music is thumping all night , it's called being young,has Don forgot about being young .
Yep, sure have.
@@DonShader great me too
Don the Shader 😂🙂👍
Don, look on the bright side. If you persevere another two years to get citizenship, then you’ll have every right to butt in. Maybe head of the new Ministerio de Sentido Común is in your future!
It's not just Manta or even Ecuador. These things are common throughout Latin America! These things are real head-scratchers for us Gringos, but they just have different expectations and culture there.
Sounds like you had enough of that place ? Quite a variety of complaints ! Can't do a damn thing about those things either ? -- I'm sure Google has none of that ! -- I appreciate the absolute honest info we rarely get anywhere. I think I'm too fond of English to come there. If I go anywhere it might be the Philippines. None of the Spanish speaking countries appeal to me & I'm too old to learn it. I would just want a comfortable cheaper place to live than Biden's America where I am now ! Thanks for the honesty Don.
Very important episode for future expats Don, well done mate.
Don and myself both live in Ecuador amongst the locals and don't hide blindfolded and protected in urbanisations. We see the true Ecuador 24 hrs per day.
I also know some truly beautiful and genuinely good people here that I consider friends and family.
This is only an observation from my perspective which could be entirely wrong. I haven't been everywhere or met everyone here so please take with a grain of salt.
Ecuadorians are entitled to create the environment they want in their country.
It appears they don't want a harmonious society where people have consideration and compassion for others.
The Ecuadorian economy will never thrive with the "mañana" attitude.
The majority of quality, construction, products and service are rarely above bare minimum.
The hypocrisy of "people of god" who discard rubbish in public, destroy nature and have no respect for others.
I am disappointed that I cannot survive within this filthy, disrespectful, selfish society and will leave asap.
I have no ill feelings towards Ecuador as it is their country and I am not the authority to decide what is good and bad.
Myself and Ecuador are incompatible and that's all. I encourage people to visit and live in Ecuador as it may be suitable for you. Good luck to all and thank you for the experience.
Where did you live in Ecuador? Maybe a different location would work?
@@jessiesheldon-huffey1824 I totally agree with you. I am a stubborn person and I refuse to believe my limited experience so far truly reflects Ecuador. I have already adopted this country as my home and where I want to integrate into, accept and be accepted.
@ndthat we are going to explore loja area as a possible spot this winter.
Wow!! Don, you just explained the Philippines. Same things. It boils down to no discipline. We've been disciplined since the day we were born but it's not like that in other countries. But the people are great. I'm from Canada and loving your videos. Will have to visit there some day.
Whelp, living in Cuenca full time since the end of March I can’t disagree with any of this. 🤣 one additional that I observed … parking on hills one should turn their wheels so if the car rolls it’ll roll into the curb to minimize possible carnage. Most people here don’t turn their wheels (not all that different from many parts of the USA to be honest) but the ones that do it have them turned so the car will just roll right into traffic. I’d say only 5% of the cars parked on a hill against a curb here are doing it right
I’m a big fan of noise canceling headphones. Might work in the restaurant situation where folks play their cellphones
Agreed but what if you're trying to visit?
There's a big difference between culture and common social behavior and common etiquettes .
Common behavior isn't culture? That's news to me.
The elevator thing is baffling. But i now just stand in the door and dont move until someone makes a pathway for me. With the waiters I think they are taught to not bother you while eating.
Thanks Don, couldn't stop laughing! You hit the nail on the head.
Small town problems. You'll often hear that people are ruder in big cities, but I think they actually have a higher level of education as far as manners are concerned. I've experienced this in Mexico, Spain, Italy, France and Turkey.
Hi, Don. You are correct about the lack of customer service in stores and restaurants, but I have a theory about that phenomenon. Since Ecuador has the lowest percentage of English speakers in Latin America, my theory is that they recognize you as a gringo but are uncomfortable with their English. So, they avoid interaction.
I bet you're right about that and that makes perfect sense to me. I do know that when I attempt to communicate with them, and I screw it all up, then laugh at myself, they laugh too. And that makes it all okay.
Thanks for your feedback, I appreciate you.
-ds
All true...and even though i m fully ecuadorian 67 is hard for me to get used to all this but i use this as a challenge to my realization of zen no mind attitude..😅 pasala bien Don we love you...nevertheless😂
Hilarious. Soft tortillas. I want to start a burrito place in Loja. Not for money. For the experience
put your arms out and accept what manta sends you
Common sense is greatly lacking BUT they are also raised differently. I saw a little boy about 4-5 wander out on the street by himself to pee.
It caught my attention that he was alone that young and peeing at the side of the street. When I got up there I then saw what I assumed was his mother and 2-3 friends socializing at a table just out of my view having lunch. I suspect they sent him out there so that didn't have to take him inside to pee.
🤷♂️ 🤷♀️ They also pee on the side of the bathroom building on the Malecon. I assume to save the .25 cents.
Different culture here
When I saw the word "culture," I thought you were going to talk about the symphony, art, music, the more refined side of society, that kind of thing.
I am sure if they existed he would. lol I live near where they have concerts on the weekend. Sounds like they're torturing cats, and that's what they call "music." This weekend they had a "symphony" it sounded like my brother's friends, when they were 10 trying to play instruments in the garage. I love Latin music, I have no idea what they play here. smh Art? The best you can find is in the museums from before the Spanish showed up. The Indigenous do a good job. But Ecuadorians themselves don't possess abstract thinking from what I've experienced.
I started to say that but I just wanted to get down to the street level and tell it like it is.
@@valarieknight7990😂you are beautiful but you are mean
Wow Don! Did I just hear you drop "an S bomb?" Lol...we will all give you a break cause we know this video got you all worked up, lol. Maybe a couple of beers before you do another culture video😅.
Well, I live in Mexico and most of what you experience there seems pretty common in Latin América. One thing different here is the very aggressive driving and streams of raw sewage running through communities. I live by the ocean and wish I can say all I smell is sea and salt. If you live here, you would need 4 shots of tequila before you did a similar themed video lol Lookn forward to coming down there! Your videos ironically make me want visit sooner! Breakfast on me!
don is getting grumpier but on point...you would do well in a town in arizona called Mesa...lol...kidding
I love that place. I miss that place. I wanna go home to Mesa.
Hey Don, great video. How would you compare your comments to other parts of the country?
I have been to Cuenca. I see a lot of similarities there as well as here on the coast.
Do you think the culture you describe in Ecuador is the same as in all of the other Latin American countries?
Not at all.
I live in Uruguay and know how cultures are in Brazil , Chile and Argentina and even Mexico .
None of them are like this.
I really don't know, to be perfectly honest. I do know that I've met some extremely wonderful people from Peru, Colombia, and Argentina.
And that makes me sad.
It’s exactly the same in Medellin Colombia, where I live when I’m not in Ecuador. To a T.
Well to be fair coffee refills are not the norm in Ecuador except in Gringo friendly restaurants.
Donny you are so funny. Thank you for your honesty. Man tells it like he sees it. You should write a book…Etiquette for non gringos por favor. YOU bad mood…never. Grrrr…bite me 🤪
Don, I liked this video, so I have no one to bite. And I say it with Peace and Love. 😂
WOW ! Wish I had your problems !! My ocean view is only the view behind your back . Wouldn't consider suggesting you move away . Love watching a north american cry baby complain about how everybody in south america is not bending over back words to make his world more comfortable . Instead of excepting and incorporating the differences like Ace an Amelia an many other UA-camrs . Hope you find peace and happiness in your own being ! I'll be in Cuenca soon , Hope I don't run into you until after you have had a couple Hahaha !
That is pretty rude. You sound like you're new here and one of those expats that talks shit about America at every chance.
@@lovethemountains Correct. Many here think there is virtue in that.
@@davidgarner6736 That's because most of the expats here are poor and can't make it in America.It's a personal failure and they deal with it by shifting the blame.
That's Okay, he will learn.
You won’t wanna run into me after I’ve had a couple. Just saying. There’s nothing wrong with blowing off steam and commiserating with other Expats that live in the country and experiencing the same thing. That’s OK. You’ll see everything he discussed if you actually come here.
I have to say there is a lack of perceived respect is different from disrespect. For instance in the US people with large vehicles pulling past the stop line so when you are trying to take a right on red you cannot see around them. I pointed it out to my father when he did it and he said he had no idea. There is actual disrepect. No one can deny that when a new register opens and the cashier actually pulls someone to be their first customer and three people shove ahead that they don't know what they are doing. But I like the people here and, for the most part, just smile and shake it off. Ecuador has afforded me all the time in the world. I just pretend all the honking is for my sweet bod! Lmao.
I like the people here too, especially the locals. Can't say the same for many of the expats though.
People here don’t care. They are unbothered. Pedestrians won’t get any respect.
This video explains a lot about foreign people who come here to the US. They throw trash down on the ground without pause, drive like there are no laws, and are rude and uncouth in general.
Characterizing an entire race of people (Latinos) as rude and uncouth is racist and highly offensive.
@@sinnombre3855, Let's not be coy. We both know that the refugees and immigrants who most raise the ire of Americans come not from Norway, Switzerland, or Australia, but rather across the southern border from Mexico, Central America, and South America. In short, they are Latinos.
I'm sorry if it troubles you, but I will call out racism where I see it.
@@RJMincey it’s not racism if it’s true. Stop virtue signaling that comment is absolutely spot on 100% correct.
@@gitsome7118, only a racist would think that merely because someone is born into a particular race or ethnic heritage, it means that they throw trash on the ground, ignore laws, and are rude.
There are plenty of Latinos of class and culture, just as there are plenty of Americans who lack class and culture.
I have no interest in discussing this topic further with you. You can have the last word.
laughing in Canada
Oh wow! Thats all I have to say bout this video. Except: "Grumpy old Gringo" strikes again!! LOL. My wife and I were there in Manta in 2020 for 30 days to scope out a place to retire. Nope, not the place for us. Never heard so much loud music ALL night, every night. We realized The U.S. is pretty much the safest place on the planet for us. Blessings on you Don. We hope one day to return and actually have breakfast with you. Unlike Amelia and JP!
Right on! Thanks so much John.
100% correcto!
Your best spot on video to date. I agree 100%. This rudeness is taught to the children by their parents so I don’t expect any changes anytime soon. Nice people but rude.
And one more thing…. When a man or woman gets behind the wheel of their car, their main objective is to pass the person in front of them (motorcycles want to pass the next 10 people in front of them). But on the sidewalk or in any store or mall, it is how slow can I walk and some of them are carrying their helmets in their hands. I don’t get it!
I'm sorry their culture is so irritating. It's one of the reasons I hesitate moving there. But, I like a lot of solitude so maybe it wouldn't be so bad for me. Anyway, keep giving it to us straight brother.
If you don't like it there.......LEAVE!!! 😂😂😂😂
WTF do you think I'm doing?
unfortunately it's getting the same way here in the US. I was at a grocery store and this lady had already unloaded all her stuff on the belt to be checked. I am behind her. She then decides that she got the wrong thing and walks away because it's "just over there". Her husband walks up and tells them to go ahead and check them out. They ring it all up and right at the end when he's paying she shows up with whatever it was she had to have. Then she proceeds to have a discussion with HIM about how they were supposed to pay for things separated, and how it was bagged, etc... Finally they pay and start to move on. As I pay and start to walk out, she is standing there in the way, still perusing something or other not moving.. I was just flabbergasted at her lack of awareness of what was going on around her. It was like she was in her own crazy reality where there were no other people around. I am in SWFL and there are lots and lots of people from Latin America and South America so I think it's that culture spreading. Funny part is that these people were obviously white, English Speaking. Just acting entitled. I know people say that the Hispanic people are kind and friendly, but this and what you describe is just rude. The elevator thing drives me fricken NUTS.
So, that's what goes for "culture" in Ecuador, I was wondering. lol
I've had a few men pull into a driveway area, as I'm walking across it, then honk. I walk over, tap on the window, make them roll it down and I ask them what their problem is? They either try to ignore me (which is never a good idea) or acted all embarrassed, one tried to get out of his car. I told him, if you get out, you won't be getting back in.
I had an Ecuadorian ask me how long I had been in Ecuador. I told him, I'd been here about a year. He said, "And, you don't speak Spanish, yet?"
I looked at him and asked him, "You use our indoor bathrooms, washer and dryers, tv's, radio, computers, Internet, wear our clothes, drive our cars, and even use our damn money and have been doing it for more than 20 years and you don't speak English?" smh
What I've discovered, is they don't really have a culture. They have appropriated ours, even their Cathedrals are leftovers of the Spanish, which they ran out about 200 years ago. (at least that's their story...I suspected the Spanish gave up and went home. lol)
Having dealt with their "maestros" I can tell you, that they don't have the ability for abstract thinking. They can't problem-solve. All they can do is copy what they've seen, and they don't even do that very well.
It's like they've watched old movies from the 50's of what the U.S. is like and have tried to copy it, without really understanding what is going on. Their "fast food" places are always amusing to watch. They look like movie sets. They watched the movies and saw that people stand behind the counter but they really don't know what else they're supposed to do.
I visit Batan often and some of their "fast food" places may get one or two customers a day. The pizza place is always out of pizza. The London Pub takes forever to make their food. (I suspect they order it from another place and have it delivered). The hot dog place rarely gets anyone. And Dunkin' Donuts is out of Donuts by 11:30 and the guy just sits there the rest of the day. lol
The reason why these people are poor is because they really have no clue about how business works. They all have these "pretend" businesses. They remind me of kids playing a game of pretend.
I have some Venezuelan friends and they too shake their heads and believe the Ecuadorians are crazy. They say, "Everything is upside down, here." So, it's not just us Expats who shake our heads and wonder, how the hell do they even survive? lol
I like your attitude. I too fight with cars in Cuenca as a runner. They are first in shock and then become angry that I object to attempted murder.
Not sure I can agree on the Venezuelans though. Every time I see them in public they are talking loudly and creating a scene. Once the police were called because one of them pushed over a motorcycle.
Valarie,
OMG you hit that nail square on the head. Thank you for speaking up. I agree 100% with your assessment. I'm keeping this response in my archives and might even do a follow up video with it.
Please keep in touch.
Westernized behavior is not the norm in Latin America, inner city America, Eastern Europe and parts of Asia.
If you’re referring to Don’s takes on Ecuadorian culture, then you’re wrong. I live in Europe and people here are way more slow paced than in Ecuador, they just have a better economy that’s it. South America’s leisure and family centered culture is mostly Spanish and Portuguese heritage, unlike in the US where you have more of an individual centered, fast paced culture
Another great video Don.That’s how it works and there’s absolutely nothing you can do about it. In many cities in So. America they have a fascination with horns, I’ve seen taxi drivers in Lima blowing the horn to the traffic lights!!! Cutting you off is a national sport pretty much. The funny thing is that when they come to the US and drive a car, they do the exact opposite and that’s because the LAW works here. south America is a “me, me, me” culture. They have absolutely no respect for the rest. Worst thing that an expat can do is try to fix the culture, it’s an exercise in futility and the locals will be upset if you try. Still, I plan to retire in Peru basically because most of my family is there, I’ll have to re adapt to the culture but its just a matter of time before i start cutting in line, play loud music until 3am and cutting off other drivers in traffic! Hey if u can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!!
you are describing a culture created by people with lower IQ's than you are used to. It is not a purely European or Asian population.
That pretty much sums it up. It is what it is.