First I should point out by way of full disclosure that I love Ecuador. I chose this country after taking a hard look at a dozen others and, after two-and-a-half years, have no regrets.
Read OnWhile Ecuador may sound exotic to some, I have found it surprisingly approachable since moving to Quito, the nation's capital, two years ago. My husband, Luca, had been working for the United Nations Development Program in New York, and this was our first overseas posting. We both felt right at home. In fact, I was comfortable enough in our new quarters that, seven months pregnant, I embarked on a road trip through the mountain highlands, with my 2-year-old son, Matteo, and my 56-year-old parents, Harold and Georganne. My growing belly hadn't shrunk my spirit for adventure, and my parents' visit seemed like the last chance for a while to explore. I planned a 10-day trip, and Luca would join us on the weekends.
Read OnAlthough real estate prices are moving up in Ecuador, particularly on the coast, prices remain far below those in the hot spots of Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Read OnEcuador mostly appeals to the adventurer, expat, or investor willing to take a leap of faith, both geographical and psychological, across the continental divide from Central to South America.
Read OnEcuador is working hard to attract foreign investment. It has liberalized investment regulations and foreign investors are now treated as Ecuadorian citizens in all regards. Profits and capital can be repatriated without restriction. Good labor isn't hard to find. Nor are good private sector partners if you know where to look.
Read OnPerched at 300 feet above sea level, and 150 yards from the Pacific, you can stay at Samai, eat organic fare, and undergo a variety of holistic services and programs.
Read OnThe more I travel around Ecuador, the more I notice that many of the International Living readers moving here aren't retiring as much as starting a new life.
Read OnHis hand-made guitars have been owned by Freddy Fender, Judy Collins, and Spanish classical musician Pablo Menendez.
Read On