Moving to Ecuador
Living in Ecuador is extremely affordable in many ways.  The prices of food, gas and rents are low. Unfurnished apartments can still be had for $200 per month.

When we first came here, there were very few rentals. Now, as more ex-pats purchase houses and condos, there are quite a few furnished condos and houses in the rental pool, but since more people are renting long term, they are frequently filled.  Rents for a furnished unit usually start around $500 per month. The best way to find an apartment or house is to come here and look around. 

Eating Well in Ecuador.  Move to Ecuador for the markets! Market days are often the highlight of the week for many locals and markets are bustling on those days.  Cotacachi’s market day is Sunday and Otavalo’s is Saturday.  

Market day is a day for vendors to socialize as well as profit from the literal “fruits” of their labor. The markets ring with laughter, lively conversation and bartering as each buyer looks for the best produce at the best price. For $15-20 USD a week will buy all the fabulous fresh fruits and vegetables needed for a whole week of munching for two. 

Many different brands of cars are readily available. New cars range from 15% to 30% higher than in the U.S. depending on the make. Used cars tend to be significantly more expensive than in the states. It is not possible to import a car into Ecuador from another country at this time. 

Gasoline and diesel fuel in Ecuador is subsidized and has held steady at $1.48 per gallon for many years.  A tank of propane gas costs about under $2.00 if you pick it up from the distribution center or around $2.50 to $3.00 delivered.

The People and  Culture of Ecuador-  As a rule, we find that Ecuadorians are friendly and helpful, communal and generally non-aggressive. They are not outspoken or vocal in most situations.  I have rarely seen a mother or father reprimand or physically punish a child in public.  

The indigenous tend to group together in rural areas, keeping the surrounding land for only agriculture.  Life in Ecuador moves at a slower pace than in North America.  Mañana rules. And it doesn't necessarily mean tomorrow, it means "not today." 

Each indigenous village or community has its own individual dress.  In Cotacachi that means skirts and white sequined blouses for women and white pants, shirts and shoes with blue ponchos for men.  Each village is distinctive.  Village life is agricultural, centering around fiestas and the church, which is mostly Catholic.

Large cities are like most others in the world—a variety of cultures and races, including those from other countries.  International dining, fine hotels, opera, theater, music, shopping malls:  all are available.  There are coffee houses, bars, delis, English bookstores, good public transportation and a multitude of nightlife to choose from.  Your move to Ecuador will provide a wide range of experiences and cultures.  If you are friendly and open, you can assimilate into the Ecuadorian culture fairly easily.