Expats choosing to retire to Ecuador are taking the “road less traveled’ and enjoying it. Though not as well-known as other popular Latin America destinations, Ecuador has an untapped potential that could make it the most popular retirement destination in the region.
There are more options for retirees in Ecuador today than ever before. Improvements in the country’s infrastructure have opened more areas for expats looking for a less cluttered existence.
Johnny Gustavo
Retire to Ecuador, Save Money, Live the Life You Want
Ecuador’s cost of living is certainly one of the most affordable in Latin America. It is important to remember, however, that some online claims about living there for practically nothing are overblown. Like anyplace else, how much you spend will depend on the choices you make concerning location, amenities, and luxuries.
The fact that the U.S. dollar is the currency of Ecuador is an important plus. Knowing the cost of things and not having to deal with currency exchange rates certainly makes budgeting for your retirement much easier – especially for those on fixed incomes.
Being able to buy or rent your retirement retreat at reasonable prices is one of the biggest draws of Ecuador. Even in the larger cities like Quito or Guayaquil, a spacious three-bedroom apartment can rent for under $1,500 per month. Rental and sale prices in smaller towns make finding a home much less stressful.
The lower health care costs that are offered in Ecuador certainly make living a healthy lifestyle much easier. Modern state-of-the art facilities provide high quality care at a fraction of the expense for the same procedures in the U.S. Dental care and dental tourism is another area where retiree dollars can go farther and enhance the quality of living for years to come.
An important and intangible benefit to retiring in Ecuador is the more relaxed pace of daily living. Being able to appreciate the natural beauty of the country, without the hectic approach to living found in the U.S., can make those retirement years truly “golden.”
Crucita MLS
Investment Potential Continues to Grow
A decision to retire to Ecuador may also provide the potential for a strong return on investments. There are a number of areas that are primed for new projects as expats continue to arrive seeking new housing and commercial options. In addition to already built properties, there is a growing number of undeveloped lots that are available in a variety of locations; both urban and rural.
The beach towns of Canoa and Ancon have a great deal of undeveloped and underdeveloped property that can be purchased quite reasonably. Crucita has become a world-class destination for paragliders and hang gliders. This increase in the tourist trade makes investing in rental properties a viable and potentially profitable action to consider. Along with San Clemente, this area is well on the way to becoming the next Pacific “Gold Coast.”
The beach is not the only part of Ecuador that is an attractive investment option. Cuenca, a World Heritage city in the foothills of the Andes and the Yunguilla Valley are becoming increasingly popular as expat destinations and potential retirement meccas that combine a moderate climate, rich cultural history, and affordable prices.
International Realestate
The Beauty of Ecuador – So Many Diverse Locations
One of the most unique features of Ecuador is the wide diversity of regions that can be your retirement destination.
For those whose idea of a tropical paradise is a cosmopolitan city with attractions and entertainments, Quito and Guayaquil are both modern and filled with the kind of amenities one might find in any major city in the U.S. These cities also are the locations of the two international airports in Ecuador; Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre in Quito and Simon Bolivar in Guayaquil.
Cuenca captures the flavor of the Andean Highlands and retains the essence of its rich colonial heritage. The coastal villages of Canoa, Ancon, San Clemente are rustic, laid-back beach communities just perfect for those looking for a more authentic Ecuadorian experience.
For those truly seeking to ‘”get away from it all,” Ecuador also has a number of island communities that could be your retirement paradise. Santa Cruz, Isla Isabella, Pena and San Cristobal are just some of the places expats are beginning to pay attention to.
The continued growth in the number of expats and retirees coming to Ecuador will increase the options available. Some of the small jungle towns, such as Banos, are in the earliest stages of moving from tourist attraction to a destination for expat arrivals to settle and develop.
Even beyond the possibilities of places to live, there are stunning natural wonders suddenly much closer if you are living in Ecuador. The Galapagos Archipelago, the Andes, and the Amazon Basin become more accessible and easier to explore; adding another dimension to the desirability of this Latin American gem.
Lobitadelsur
So Many Positives to Choose Ecuador and Things to Consider
For retirees, expats looking for a tropical escape, and investors exploring new options, Ecuador has many features to commend it. Constantly improving infrastructure, growing communities of North Americans and Europeans, and affordable properties are all important reasons to retire to Ecuador.
However, even in a tropical paradise, there are a number of factors that you should examine as part of your decision-making process. First and foremost is that English, while growing in usage, is not the dominant day-to-day language – particularly in the smaller rural villages and towns. An honest appraisal of your comfort level of living someplace where communications may be challenging at times is truly an important step to a happy relocation.
A second consideration is the fact that the more rustic communities also have fewer of the modern amenities of major cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. If having ready access to high speed internet, cable television, etc. is a necessity, this could limit the potential Ecuadorian locations that might be right for you.
Patience is an important facet of expat life throughout Latin America and Ecuador is no exception. Travel, particularly where the only option is driving, can take significantly longer; repairs and improvements to infrastructure items such as roads, electricity, and even water, may involve much more time than one might find in the U.S. or Europe.
In the end, the best way to truly know if Ecuador is right for you (and if you are a good fit for Ecuador) is to talk to others who have made the decision. Do your research and, most importantly, visit this unique land of potential and promise and see if it resonates within you and makes you want to retire to Ecuador.
If you’ve never traveled to Ecuador’s northern coast (or if you haven’t in a while), Bahia de Caraquez, known to the locals as Bahia, Ecuador, is one city that’s worth a second look.
Once a bustling port city, Bahia was virtually devastated by El Niño rains and an earthquake in the late 1990s. Determined to overcome these tragedies, the town re-established itself as an up-and-coming eco-city, and the results have been astounding.
Patriciota Mariz
Bahia’s Climate Makes It an Ideal Coastal Destination
Although it lies just 40 miles south of the equator, on a peninsula at the mouth of the River Chone, Bahia’s climate is surprisingly comfortable. The city lies in a dry tropical belt that experiences relatively low humidity and temperatures averaging around 80 degrees from May through November.
A wet season begins in December or January and can run as late as April. During those months, the sky is often overcast with evening showers and temps closer to 85 and moderate humidity.
There’s a constant breeze blowing off the ocean, which helps considerably with the heat. As a result, there’s less need for air conditioning. You might even find yourself reaching for a sweater or blanket at night.
Such conditions are considered by many expats to be a breath of fresh air from a lot of the hotter, more humid coastal cities. Many also find they prefer mild, coastal living to the thinner air that plagues the colonial cities that lie at higher altitudes.
Bahia Offers a Great Mix of Residents
Bahia, Ecuador is a city of only around 30,000 regular inhabitants, which allows it to maintain a small-town feel, despite its popularity as a beach destination. Most of the locals come from very meager backgrounds, but they aren’t looking to take advantage of visitors and expats.
Instead they’re warm and welcoming to the many middle- and upper-class citizens from Quito and Guayaquil who have vacation homes in the area. In fact, Bahia has a reputation for being an incredibly friendly city.
It’s also extremely safe, with the lowest crime rate in all of Ecuador. Just like with any other foreign city, you should use care not to carry around wads of cash or flash extravagant items. But in Bahia you don’t have to worry about getting swindled by the locals or walking around late at night.
Because Bahia has historically been somewhat cut off from much of the rest of the country, it doesn’t see a lot of international travelers or expats. However, that seems to be changing.
In fact, on my last visit I was surprised to see that an established expat community does exist, albeit a small one.
Bahia, Ecuador Has Just Enough of the Attractions You Crave
Whatever your tropical passion, you’re practically guaranteed to find a place to enjoy it at least near to, if not in, Bahia. Yet at the same time, it’s not overrun with tour buses or overpriced souvenir shops.
There are beaches with small waves that are safe for swimming, yet at times steady enough for long boarding. You can also go water skiing, sail boarding, or fishing. Both hang-gliding and surfing lessons are available just up the road in Canoa.
Bahia offers a plethora of birds and other wildlife. The nearby Isla Fragatas and Isla Corazon are home to a variety of birds. Saiananda is a local park that’s home to deer, donkeys, ostriches, geese, and sloths. Whale-watching is also a popular pasttime.
There’s also the Chirije archaeologial site and the Rio Muchacho organic farm to explore.
It’s worth mentioning here that Bahia’s beaches are somewhat limited. Due to significant beach erosion in recent decades, the south shore of the peninsula is narrow and often crowded. At high tide it can become almost completely submerged. The north (bay) side of the peninsula is polluted and unsuitable for swimming.
In terms of consumer options, Bahia has everything you’d expect to find in a mid-sized tourist destination, including a new modern supermarket. What you can’t find in town you can easily get from a nearby large city like Manta or Portoviejo.
One other area where some expats might find Bahia a bit lacking is in its cultural offerings. While it does have a few attractions, like a great museum, it doesn’t have a lot of them.
Bahia’s Eco-friendly Initiatives Keep Everything Nice and “Green”
Bahia is known throughout the country’s as Ecuador’s cleanest coastal city, ever since it established itself as an eco-city, and the benefits are obvious as you stroll along the beach or through the pristine streets of the city.
Eco-friendly behaviors are a part of life in Bahia. Residents are encouraged to recycle and employ other sustainable practices. There’s daily garbage service, and the town even has its own paper recycling plant.
It was also the first coastal city in Ecuador to ban the use of plastic bags.
Living in Bahia, Ecuador Won’t Break the Bank
Like the rest of Ecuador, Bahia de Caraquez enjoys an extremely affordable cost of living. A mere $1,000 per month could buy you a very comfortable life there.
Factors that contribute to the low costs include government subsidized fuel (currently around $1.50 per gallon) and low wages. As a result, almost everything is cheaper in Ecuador and particularly in Bahia.
An almuerzo (a typical lunch of soup, salad, rice, and beans with meat) is only $1.50. You can enjoy the fresh juice that comes with it or spring for a $1 beer to wash it all down.
Other affordable perks include the services of a domestic helper, such as a maid or gardener, as well as inexpensive Spanish schools.
Bahia Has Bridged the Gap for Expats, Tourists, and Investors
What’s kept Bahia de Caraquez off the radar of most expats and international tourists, has been the fact that it was more than a little off the beaten path. Even merely crossing the Rio Chone, on the most direct route to Quito, once took three hours on a small ferry that held only 12 cars.
After the 2010 completion of the 1.25 mile (2 km) Bahia-San Vicente Bridge, however, the river can now be crossed in only 15 minutes. This longest bridge in Ecuador is expected to considerably boost trade and tourism to the area, as Bahia is now connected to nearby San Vicente, the fishing village of Canoa and basically the entire rest of Ecuador’s northern coast.
Getting to Bahia has never been easier thanks to the new bridge. There’s an airport in San Vicente, but it’s small and doesn’t run regular flights. The next closest are in Portoviejo or Manta, both of which are about 90 minutes or less by bus. The flight to these airports from Quito is only about a half hour.
There are also bus services that run to and from cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Esmeraldas.
Patriciota Mariz
Why Now Is the Best Time to Purchase Bahia, Ecuador Real Estate
Bahia, Ecuador is a town that has clearly reinvented itself. Although it was due to unfortunate circumstances, the city has no doubt benefited from its fresh new eco-friendly image. This fresh start, combined with the drastic increase in accessibility from the new bridge, has brought new life and new interest to Bahia.
In addition to the renewed appeal of Bahia itself, the town is also strategically positioned for growth in the surrounding areas. The area across the bridge just north of Bahia is a naturally beautiful, and largely underdeveloped, coastal region. With the new infrastructure in place, it’s primed for a big surge in property values.
The bridge has also opened up a new path for the transportation of merchandise that can now be brought through Bahia on its way to the port city of Manta just 30 minutes south of town, making what could become a stop on a major thoroughfare.
As a result, the time is right to buy or invest in Bahia before prices start to rise. Here are a few examples of what you can get for your money in Bahia, Ecuador.
- Just $75,000 buys you a 2-bedroom, 2-bath beachfront penthouse with an ocean view in a gated complex with a pool and landscaped grounds.
- For $170,000 you can have a 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo in a high-rise building with panoramic views of the bay, the beach, and the city.
As you can see, Bahia is still a place to score a great bargain on real estate in an area that has the potential for tremendous growth in the near future. Consumer and cultural options that are currently lacking in the area are likely to be introduced soon.
Who knows? Maybe you could be the one to fill a much-needed niche in the city’s scene.
The Ecuador cost of living is among the most affordable throughout Central America for expats, retirees, and investors. Learning how prices may vary from location to location can help make a budget for paradise.
Tibo
Ecuador Cost of Living – Setting Reasonable Expectations
As more and more interest is being focused on Ecuador as an expat “hotspot”, greater attention is being paid to how much it actually costs to live there. Setting reasonable expectations on what the actual cost will be is an all-important first step in making the transition to the Ecuadorian lifestyle.
Factors That Impact the Ecuador Cost of Living
The old maxim “location, location, location” certainly applies when looking at the cost of living in Ecuador. Larger cities like Quito and Guayaquil will be more expensive than smaller cities and towns such as Cuenca or Ibarra.
Property type and size is another important factor. A one bedroom apartment outside a city center will certainly be less costly than a multi-bedroom unit in the heart of the action. Stand-alone properties can carry a higher price tag than apartment buildings or condominiums.
Deciding how modern or how rustic of a lifestyle to follow will also impact a budget’s bottom line. Air conditioning, high speed internet, cable/satellite television are just some items that may come with a higher price tag than expected.
Even shopping for groceries can impact the Ecuador cost of living. Buying local meats, produce, and products will be more economical than purchasing those stateside items that have to be imported.
Property Values – Renting versus Buying
One of the most important decisions impacting the Ecuador cost of living is whether to buy or rent property. Like most Central American countries, expats have the same ownership rights as Ecuadorian citizens.
With a wide selection of properties that range from turn-key residences to land waiting to be developed, Ecuador has many options. If purchasing is not a viable option, countless rental units can meet every taste and lifestyle. Prices overall are more affordable than many other Central American locations.
Medical Expenses
One item often overlooked in making an expat budget is the cost of medical care and insurance. Ecuador is fortunate in that the major cities (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca) provide quality care at a significantly lower cost than the United States. Also there are a number of health insurance providers that are based in Ecuador that offer rates much lower than their stateside counterparts.
Traveling to and from Ecuador
Being able to travel to and from Ecuador is another often overlooked expense in the expat budget. There are several international flights to both Quito and Guayaquil from destinations like Miami (for example).
Since many smaller cities and towns do not have an international airport, an additional cost of shuttle or rental car should be added in. Depending on how often you are planning to travel outside Ecuador, the cost of airfare and ground transportation could be considerable.
Vilseskogen
Ecuador Cost of Living – Comparing Cuenca Ecuador to Tempe, Arizona
Cuenca, Ecuador has a “sister city” arrangement with Tempe, Arizona. Comparing the cost of living in Cuenca and Tempe provides a great illustration of the price differences that an expat could expect.
Below is a brief comparison that illustrates some of the basic differences between these two “twinned cities”. Similar differences are reflected in other areas such as food items, clothing, and entertainment.
| Item | Cuenca | Tempe |
| Utilities Per Month (1 bedroom apt)( includes electricity, heat, water, garbage) | $42.50 | $546.30 |
| Cable/Internet | $43.50 | $29.82 |
| Rent (1 bedroom-City) | $520.00 | $917.50 |
| Rent (1 bedroom-Outside city center) | $446.50 | $650.00 |
The cost of living in Cuenca is clearly lower than Tempe, again, depending on the amenities, lifestyle, location, etc. desired. Factoring in all of the potential costs ahead of time can prevent “expat regret” in moving to Ecuador.
Ecuador Cost of Living – Other Matters to Consider
When potential expats start planning their move to Ecuador some items that are not directly part of the budget should also be given consideration. These matters are often overlooked until the last minute and can throw a carefully planned budget totally out of balance.
Buying or Importing a Vehicle
Depending on the location, having access to a vehicle may not be a necessity. However, living outside a city center will almost certainly require having some kind of regular transportation.
Like most Central American countries, vehicle prices will be higher for the same model than in the U.S. A Volkswagen Golf, for example that costs $20,842 in the U.S. may be $25,000 in Ecuador.
By comparison, some expats choose to import their existing vehicle. While this may be less expensive, there is still a considerable cost plus the various import requirements to bring a vehicle into the country.
Regardless of which option is selected, the cost of having a private vehicle in Ecuador will represent a significant upfront expense that could impact a budget.
Shipping Personal Belongings
Many expats want to bring many of the comforts of home (furniture, bedding, appliances, etc.) to their new location in Ecuador. Shipping via ship container is not a cheap prospect and transporting the items once they arrive in country can also involve a major cost.
Jeffrey Powell
What About All Those Online Claims About Living in Ecuador for Practically Nothing?
There is an old saying that goes: “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Many online articles may contain statements that the Ecuador cost of living is minimal; the question that should be asked is “What does that statement include?”
Often, such claims refer only to property prices without taking into consideration all the other facets of daily life. Rather than take these claims at face value, doing due diligence and learning all that can be learned about life in Ecuador, the pluses and minuses of various locations, and what living as an expat will entail, can provide the necessary facts and figures to make the best decisions.
Ecuador does offer a unique and affordable lifestyle for expats and investors. While less expensive than counterparts in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, Ecuador cost of living isn’t the bargain basement price often touted online. How little or how much is spent will vary from person to person and lifestyle to lifestyle.
What Is the Best Way to Learn What the Ecuador Cost of Living Would Be?
The best way to truly understand what it would cost to live in Ecuador is to visit this beautiful South American country. Experiencing daily living in Ecuador can help develop both a plan and a budget for moving to paradise.
It is no small wonder that Ecuador was recently named the second most retirement-friendly country on the planet.
With top of the line medical facilities, low procedure costs (only 7-10% of the cost of similar procedures in the U.S. and Europe according to Ecuador’s Investment Corporation), and a Ministry of Public Health avidly focused on continually improving the quality of public and private medical care within its borders: Ecuador has become one of the most well-praised medical tourism destinations for retirees and visitors alike.
But before you book your medical visit abroad, start buying property, or get your Ecuador visa, it’s a good idea to take a deeper glimpse at the medical system you’re about to jump into, and what your expat or visitor status means in a country with a well-rounded national health system, a myriad of admired private and specialist hospitals, and a widespread network of local rural clinics.
The most important thing to consider is location. The majority of significant facilities are located in the three largest cities in Ecuador: Guayaquil, Quito, and Cuenca.
If you suspect you’ll be needing high-tech treatment frequently you might want to stay close to these centers. The rural clinics, though well-lauded for their well-trained staff and the pleasantness of the visit, often have less equipment and fewer staff fluent in English.
Mount Sinai
But that doesn’t mean the urban centers will be any less personal than a local clinic—Ecuador’s hospitals are known as bastions of personalized and amiable care at more than reasonable costs.
In fact, on an international scale, the Ecuador health system was ranked in the top 20 of efficient healthcare systems by the most recent Bloomberg analysis of World Health Organization (WHO) information—a rapid rise up, given that in 2011 Ecuador only ranked 111th on similar scales.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most well-noted hospitals in Ecuador to expand on the basic information the U.S. Embassy doles out regarding your expat and tourist healthcare choices in Ecuador.
Construdipro
Hospital Alcivar, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Up first is the Hospital Alcivar. The most well-respected and oldest continual hospital in Ecuador, it was founded in 1937 and has continued operating since its inception.
Located in Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil, the once small clinic morphed over the past century from being a small specialized orthopedics service to one of the largest and most modern facilities in the country, focusing on a wide array of medical treatments.
Though the hospital has expanded significantly, its orthopedic services remain as one of the best regarded in all of South America.
With the most developed post-graduate medical training program in Ecuador, the hospital Alcivar is also the home of Ecuador’s internationally respected premiere medical journal Actas Médicas, which was founded by its former director Dr. Eduardo Alcívar Andretta.
It has 140 prestigious doctors, a staff of 700+, its own theme song (the aptly named Hymn to Hospital Alcivar), and handles everything from trauma to rehabilitative services, including Neurosurgery, Cardiology, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics. Hospital Alcivar is located close to the commercial center of the city and is within ten minutes of the city’s airports.
Dario
Hospital Metropolitano de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
Hospital Metropolitano is the most famous hospital in Ecuador. Located in the capital city of Quito, it was founded in 1985 with support from American Medical International (AMI). It is arguably the most technologically and procedurally progressive hospital in the country.
In addition to its bevy of cutting-edge equipment for medical visualization, intensive procedures, and patient monitoring, it is well-known for performing the most difficult types of surgeries (open heart, spine, brain surgery, etc.) and frequently collaborates with well-recognized American medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Mount Sinai Hospital.
Hospital Metropolitano is a teaching hospital which trains a huge majority of the doctors of Ecuador as well as international students. It has one of the largest and most well-run emergency rooms in the city.
And in conjunction with the Metrofraternidad Foundation, Hospital Metropolitano is noted for its social work and has special programs which provide its already reasonably priced services as no-cost medical care for the city’s poor.
Hospitalario Kennedy
Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy Hospital/Clinica Kennedy, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Back in Guayaquil, you also have the choice of visiting the smaller Clinica Kennedy, one of the Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy’s many hospitals.
Founded in 1978, Clinica Kennedy is a university hospital with a special emphasis on medical visualization technologies and integrated digital medical record services, in addition to programs devoted to in-vitro fertilization, stem cell research, and molecular biology.
With a staff of over 250 staff medical specialists and only 125 hospital beds, the care offered in its emergency and trauma units, clinical laboratory, diagnostic center, intensive care unit, neonatal intensive care, and cardiopulmonary unit is personal and devoted.
Junta de Beneficencia de Guayaquil
Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, Guayaquil, Ecuador
The fourth highest ranked on our list is Ecuador’s premiere children’s hospital: the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde. Also a teaching hospital, it focuses in-depth on all aspects of pediatrics.
It provides medical care at several levels and possesses both regular facilities and specialized private facilities for the children of wealthier clients. The hospital uses the cost of their fancier areas to offset the cost of the cheaper but still nice general facilities.
With historic claims back to a nineteenth century clinic at a different site, the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde is arguably the oldest hospital on our list. However its current building was finished in 1999 and opened in 2000 to much acclaim.
salud de Ecuador
Hospital Eugenio Espejo, Quito, Ecuador
With the best google reviews (all of our entries have over 4 stars, but at 4.5 this hospital has the populist vote), the fifth entry on our list is back in the capital of Quito.
Built in 1912 at the behest of the national government, Hospital Eugenio Espejo is the premiere national hospital of Ecuador and is the epicenter for the Ecuadorian national health policy and medical education. It features the most comprehensive array of general medical practices, including:
- Transplant services
- Service of infectious diseases
- Orthotic and prosthetic workshops
- A service unit of comprehensive care for the elderly
- Rheumatology
- Imaging services
- Clinical neurology
- Internal medicine
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Clinical laboratory and pathology
- Immunology
- Hematology services
- Emergency services
- Epidemiology services
- Coloproctology services
Don’t Worry, Ecuador Has Quality Dental Care Too
Unlike the other entries on the list, Hospital Eugenio Espejo should be especially noted for offering dental services.
Contrary to conceptions of concern regarding dental service outside the United States, Ecuador is particularly well noted for its excellent dental services. Featuring highly trained dentists and dental hygienists, dental clinics in Ecuador are well reviewed for utilizing the most cutting edge dental technologies and their exceptional performance of procedures at a fraction of the cost of similar work in the United States.
Voz Andes
There Are Many Hospitals to Choose from, Even If They Didn’t Make Our List
Also in Quito is the missionary general Hospital Voz Andes. A cozy 104-bed hospital, it was founded in 1955 by the Catholic Ecuadorian-founded enterprise HCJB Global Hands.
With a well-equipped twenty-four hour emergency room, it handles trauma cases, but it is particularly noted for the rehabilitative care of its physical, occupation, and speech therapy programs and its mental health counseling services.
Though none of Ecuador’s third largest city, Cuenca, made the top five list, there are several well deserved honorable mentions. And as medical tourism rises in the region, it is very likely that these already fine establishments will only continue to accrue further and further medical accolades and reviews.
Hospital Universitario del Rio
This hospital is Cuenca’s newest and fanciest hospital. Opened in 2009, it is a mixture of state-of-the-art technology, spacious rooms, and customer service. Located on the edge of Cuenca, it too, is a teaching hospital whose academic profile is rapidly climbing the ranks of the international medical community.
It features a clinical laboratory, microbiology laboratory, retail pharmacy, as well as units devoted to gastroenterology, adult intensive care, surgery, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric intensive care, among others.
Hospital Santa Inés
In the center of Cuenca is the Hospital Santa Inés (or St. Agnes). The Hospital of Santa Inés is a smaller hospital than the Hospital Universitario del Rio, but as it is located proximally to the University of Cuenca and the parts of town where the majority of expats live—it is much closer and easier to get to its emergency room.
Though smaller, Hospital Santa Inés still features seven floors filled with state-of-the-art medical equipment, well-trained staff, and a well-organized ambulance service.
Hospital Mt. Sinai
The oldest Cuenca hospital, the Hospital Mt. Sinai falls between its two sister medical facilities in the city—like the Hosptal Universitario del Rio it is large. In fact, it is based in several buildings, including several modern ones. But its emergency service department is smaller than that at Hospital Santa Inés.
Udri
Medical Tourism in Ecuador
In addition to Ecuador’s well reputed and affordable hospital services, the reasonably priced retirement facilities, rehabilitative training programs, and homeopathic medical communities contribute to Ecuador’s status as a medical tourism destination.
The Ecuadorian government seems committed to providing national healthcare at international standards to citizens and visitors alike, going so far as to recently raise its government health budget and to favorably handle recent debts incurred by private hospitals in the nation.
And with such an emphasis, it seems likely that Ecuador’s health system will only thrive further, extending its top-notch urban care out further into the countryside.
Before you settle down in Ecuador, research your current and speculative health needs thoroughly and make sure you are near to the kind of medical service you might require.
Editor’s Note: The rankings are determined by the Cybermetrics lab of the National Research Council in Spain (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) which is devoted to identifying the best international digital presences of world hospitals and augmented by expat opinions and reviews.
If you are in Ecuador, reading this, and currently experiencing a medical emergency, you can call an ambulance at 911, the Red Cross at 131, the local police at 101, and if in Quito, the Quito Fire Department at 102.
From its lofty perch (9,350 feet) on the eastern slopes of the active Pichincha Volcano, Quito, Ecuador is the highest official capital city in the world.
Long overlooked as a tourist or expat destination in favor what many had viewed as Ecuador’s premier attraction, the Galapagos archipelago, the unique blend of historical architectural neighborhoods, cultural diversity, stunning vistas and surprisingly affordable cost of living for those seeking to retire or relocate to a new and exciting locale, Quito has been “rediscovered” as a place to see and experience.
M. Surgenor
Why Quito, Ecuador has become a new investment and relocation hotspot
Favorable treatment of Ecuador by the U.S. Government as a trading partner
Over and beyond being a prime location to experience South American culture at its finest, Quito, Ecuador has also emerged as a vibrant spot for relocation, investment, and business opportunities for retirees and those who seek new horizons in which financial growth potential abound.
To begin with, the significant upgrades and improvements made by both municipal and Ecuadorian authorities have opened many investment and real estate opportunities both in the central area and in the ever-expanding outlying regions.
In 2011, as part, of the National Export Initiative, the U.S. government made a strong commitment to help U.S. companies grow their export market and expand business operations into Ecuador. Being the seat of the national government, Quito has become a major focal point for much of this growth and activity.
Importantly, on March 13, 2000, the U.S. Dollar became the official currency for the country. With U.S. products being favored by Ecuadorians, there is a real potential to develop business and financial partnerships that can provide true economic potential.
Rinaldo W
A new airport means enhanced access for both passengers and cargo
In 2013 the new Mariscal Sucre International Airport opened for business, expanding the growth potential for both the number of flights and the potential increase in cargo both imported into and exported from Quito.
The new airport also increased the safety of flights which no longer would have the task of taking off and landing over a dense urban area.
A vibrant and affordable real estate market
The real estate market is a strong and vibrant area that should appeal both for the investment potential and in terms of affordable housing. The biggest single draw for settling in a city like Quito is the affordability.
By way of example, an 85 square meter (900 Sq. Ft.) fully furnished unit located in an upscale part of Quito might run in the $700-$800 range with utilities running between $90-$100 per month.
If purchasing an apartment is under consideration, a potential buyer can expect to pay between $800 and $1100 per square meter (roughly 10 square feet) outside the city center and slightly higher ($800-$1200 per square meter) in the central area.
Thomas Obrian
Tax advantages for seniors
Importantly for retirees, seniors can apply for property tax exemptions on the sale of properties. Annual property taxes are reasonable throughout the country as a whole. Taxes are generally assessed at roughly 2%-to 2½ % of the market value.
As might be expected, locations like central Quito might run higher than a rural home. By way of example, a home in an urban area that runs in the $170,000 range could have a taxable value of only $4,250.00.
The advantages of living in a highly developed community, like Quito, Ecuador, combined with the very favorable real estate situation make this an exciting and viable option for a move overseas.
Brian Dubois
Living in Quito, Ecuador – the potential for expats
In recent years interest in Quito, Ecuador has dramatically renewed as the “baby boomer” generation looks toward retirement and new locations where those retirement dollars can return a maximum amount of benefit as economically as possible.
As the nation’s capital, Quito has the kind of benefits one would expect of the country’s second largest city. The infrastructure is constantly being upgraded with such features as an increased number of electric trolleys (for example) that will help reduce pollution in this city of just under two million.
Moderate temperatures, moderate rain
The climate is as unique as the city’s history; most locals would agree that it is possible to experience “four seasons in a single day.” If you are looking for the tropical “beach life,” Quito is not for you. The temperatures are moderate year-round ranging from an average in the mid to high 60s during the day to a comfortable low in the high 40s to low 50s at night.
Like much of central and South America, there are only two “official” seasons – wet and dry. The “dry” season, June through September, matches the summer months in the U.S. and only has an average of 7 days of rain per month.
The “wet” season is far less daunting than other tropical destinations; the monthly average of precipitation during these months is 12.5 days. The most moisture-laden months, March through May and October, range from 13 to 15 days.
Modern amenities and low cost of living
As one would hope to find in a modern city, high-speed internet, cell phones, cable and satellite television are all accessible. Importantly, Ecuador does not tax U.S. social security payments and like other central and South American countries, the cost of medical treatment is significantly lower than in the U.S.
If you are over 65, there are numerous 50% discounts for utility bills, admission to sporting or cultural events and, as the number of expats continue to grow (some estimates put the number at between 5,000 and 10,000) existing expat communities will expand and new ones will be developed as Quito’s real estate potential grows.
Getting around in Quito – lots of options for tourists and expats alike
Inexpensive public transit system makes getting around an easy matter
With all the colonial charm infused in the city, it is easy to expect that transportation from one point to another could be a real challenge. Surprisingly, there are a number of affordable options that make exploring this colorful and historical center much easier and, for those who have decided to make Quito their expat destination, an inexpensive way to enjoy life in Ecuador’s cultural hub.
There are three types of buses that operate in Quito: Metrobus El Trolio and Ecovia. The Metrobus stations are painted blue and are marked with the letter “Q”. They run from the Universidad Central in America to the last station located at Carcelen. This is the best bus to take to visit the Mitad del Mundo Monument.
El Trolio has green stations and run from the La Y location in the northern part of the city to El Recreo in the south passing through the downtown area and runs the closet to Plaza Grande.
The third line is Ecovia. This line has red stations and buses and actually runs inside the historic Old Town district. With stops that range from Rio Coca station in the north to La Marin station in Old Town, this would be the choice to visit the Casa de la Cultura and Estadio Olimpico.
When leaving the airport, there is also the option of taking buses with the “Amazonas” or “Juan Leon Mera” route markers displayed that will take passengers to La Mariscal; buses with “La Marin” indicated will drop visitors within a short walk of Old Town.
Lots of options for getting around town
Public transportation in Quito, Ecuador is much less expensive than their equivalent service in the U.S. or Europe. A typical fare is $0.25 per person (U.S.). Taxis are also much less costly; the minimum daytime fare being $1.00 and the nighttime minimum $2.00.
Just as in the other parts of the world, make sure that the cab is one of the “official” vehicles that are painted yellow with a number on the door and that the driver actually turns on the meter before the trip starts. “Enterprising” taxi drivers looking to improve their daily fares seem to be a worldwide phenomena and Quito is no exception.
For the more enterprising, adventurous and athletic, there are bike rentals available at Yellow Bike or the Ecuador Freedom Bike Rental. There is a well-marked bike path through the northern part of the town.
Motorized scooter and motorcycles are also available at these businesses. While it is possible to rent a car in Quito, the city is better explored using public transportation, bicycling or on foot.
Dogymho
Quito’s past is the cornerstone of its future
As one of the first two cities (Krakow, Poland is the other) designated by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site, Quito can quite rightly be viewed as the cultural center of Ecuador as well as an important location in the history of South America.
Early beginnings as part of the Inca Empire
Quito’s roots were imbedded in time well before Sebastián de Belalcázar and 204 Spanish settlers founded the city on December 8, 1534. The site had been inhabited by the Quitus tribe. The Quitus were part of the pre-Columbian Quechua society that later became the Inca Empire in the early 1400s.
Known as the Kingdom of Quito, ancient Quito was the major community focal point for the pre-Incan people who first settled on the side of Pichincha. Under the Incan rule, Quito became the second most important city of their empire.
Quito figured prominently in the Incan Civil War. Following the death of the Incan ruler, Huyna Capac, in the early 1500s, two of his heirs, Atahualpa and Huscar, fought over who would succeed as the leader of the Empire. Atahualpa had the backing of Quito and several military leaders, while Huscar had the support of Cusco.
Atahualpa prevailed in 1532 only to fall to the Spanish under Pizzaro who executed the Incan in 1533. To spite the victorious Spaniards (and perhaps to keep any valuables from them) a local general, Rumiñahui, burned the city so that when de Belalcázar and his party arrived they found little of value remaining.
Roman Korzh
The Colonial era
During the Colonial era, Quito flourished as a center of commerce and importantly, an artistic pinnacle. The Quito School of Art, founded by students of the Franciscan missionary, Jodoco Ricke, displayed a unique and high quality of painting and sculpture that fused classic Spanish religious and indigenous native themes.
On May 24th, 1822, following nearly fifteen years of attempts to break the stranglehold of Spanish rule, Quito was liberated during the Battle of Pichincha and became part of Bolivar’s “Gran Colombia”.
Simón Bolivar and Manuela Sáenz
One of the key figures of Bolivar’s revolution is still revered as a hero in Quito, Ecuador today; although the correct designation should be “heroine”. Manuela Sáenz was the illegitimate daughter of a Spanish officer and Ecuadorian woman.
When she was born in Quito in 1797 her mother’s family disowned both of them and Manuela was sent to the Santa Catalina convent, located in Quito. A free spirit, Manuela, at age 17, also got involved with a Spanish officer and the nuns threw her out.
Her father decided to marry her off to a English doctor who relocated to Lima in 1819 after the wedding. Being well-to-do, the doctor and his young wife moved in a lot of prominent social circles where Manuela was introduced to the changing face of South America.
The call of revolution was like a siren song to the young woman and, in 1822, she left her husband and life in Lima and returned to Quito. It was there that fate intervened and Manuela met Simón Bolivar. The two fell in love and Manuela soon became part of the fight for independence.
As part of Bolivar’s cavalry, she distinguished herself and, on August 6, 1824 after the Battle of Junin; subsequently, she would rise to the rank of Colonel for her efforts in the cause at Ayachuco on the personal recommendation of Bolivar’s second-in-command, General Sucre.
But it was her bravery on the night of September 25th, 1828 that earned her a place of honor both in Quito and the history of South America.
She and Bolivar were spending the night at the San Carlos palace in Bogotá when political opponents tried to assassinate Bolivar. Manuela threw herself between her lover and the attackers, giving him time to escape.
It was this act of heroism (or love) that moved Bolivar to give her the nickname “the liberator of the liberator.”
Ecuador becomes independent and Quito becomes the capital
In 1830, Ecuador left Bolivar’s Gran Colombia to become an independent nation. As the seat of art, culture and the living symbol of the resistance and struggle for freedom, Quito became the capital city of the fledgling nation and remains so to the present.
Moya Peralta
The sights of Quito – true Ecuadorian works of art
Religion and culture have played important roles in the buildings and streets of Quito. With over 40 churches, convents, and monasteries and 17 public squares, Quito has been labeled as “The Reliquary of the Americas” for the variety, amount and blend of indigenous, colonial and independence eras of influence both in style and utility.
The three zones of Quito
Quito can be roughly divided into three parts; the Old City-which is located in the center of Quito, the modern Northern Zone, and the working class neighborhoods of the southern and northern zone (north of the airport) that have fewer tourist attractions.
Much of the dramatic architecture of the ancient community was constructed using indigenous carved stone and locally made sun-dried brick. Following the Spanish triumph over the Incas and de Belalcázar’s arrival, builders used these materials as part of their construction of many of the monumental buildings still in evidence today in the Old City.
Nicolas de Camaret
Top sites to visit in Quito, Ecuador
Here are just some of the unique and stunning “colors” to the pallet of Quito that completes the picture that this fascinating city paints:
Conjunto Monumental San Francisco: This grand house of worship dates back to the latter part of the sixteenth century. The Franciscan order was the first religious group to settle following the arrival of the conquistadors. The church is home to many fine examples of what has come to be known as “syncretic art”; these works embody the unique fusion of Roman Catholic religious art with native Ecuadorian elements. Perhaps the best known example of this is the sculpture of the “Virgin of Quito” by the artist Bernardo de Legarda.
La Virgin de Panecillo: Located on El Panecillo, a large hill next to the Old City, this sculpture is the inaccurate replica of the Legarda work. Visible from practically any point in the city, local Quitoans often say that she is the only virgin in the city. Given the steepness of the hillside, it is strongly recommended that a bus or taxi be used to make the climb.
Casa de la Cultura: Lots of local artisans can be found here. This is a great location to find handmade craft items and paintings not readily available anywhere else. There is no admission fee.
Mitad del Mundo: Meaning “middle of the world” this monument a short distance outside Quito commemorates the location where measurements were first taken in 1736 by members of the French Academy of Sciences to test the flattening of the Earth’s shape at the poles. The monument contains a marked line that supposedly indicated the path of the Equator; modern GPS technology has established that the actual equatorial line is roughly 240 feet north of the original line. The admission fee to the park is $2.00.
Calle de la Ronda: This street in Old Town was restored in 2007 with the help of the city and the local residents. With quaint shops, romantic cobblestone streets, cafes, restaurants and romantic atmosphere, visitors here are easily transported to the days of colonial Ecuador.
Museo Mindalae: This museum offers a distinct and unique perspective of the ethnic and historical background of Ecuador’s people and cultures. Covering the various societies from the Amazon basin to the Andes mountains, the exhibits demonstrate the rich heritage of Ecuador that Quito so rightfully represents.
Museo de la Ciudad: Located in the heart of Old Town across from the Carmen Alto monastery, this exhibition focus more on the social history of Quito and Ecuador than the other institutions. By viewing re-enacted scenes from the daily life of the common Ecuadorian, a true sense of living in this unique and colorful country can readily be gained. Whether looking at a domestic scene from the 1500s or witnessing a battle for independence with the Spanish, visitors can better appreciate the path Quito and Ecuador have taken.
Parque Bicentenario: The second largest park in the urban area, this open air recreational space is a tribute to the dedication to revitalizing Quito and making it a more desirable residential area as well as a commercial center. The area has actually reclaimed the space of the old Mariscal Sucre Airport that closed in 2013 and contains well marked paths for cycling and walking, outdoor exercise equipment and a man-made pond.
Plaza de la Independencia: Known locally as “Plaza Grande” it is both the physical and symbolic heart of Quito. As the central square of the city, it also represents the political and governmental power of Ecuador’s capital and the location of the offices of the country’s executives. The principal feature of the square is the monument to the heroes of August 10, 1809 marking the first declaration from Quito’s Royal Audience of the desire to be free of the Spanish rule.
TelefériQo Cruz Loma (or Teleferico): Billed as the second highest cable car/aerial lift in the world, these gondolas, located on the eastern face of the Pichincha volcano (which is still active) will carry visitors from a height of roughly 10,000 feet to a dizzying 14,000 in roughly eight minutes. At a cost of $8.50 per person ($4.00 for local residents), the ride is certainly worth it as the entire city of Quito is visible below on a clear day.
Become a part of Quito’s future
With all of the economic, cultural, and lifestyle potential that are contained in this thriving and growing Andean capital city the obvious question is: How to find out if this cultural cradle is a place for you? The only way to find out is to visit and experience all that Quito, Ecuador has and can offer in the future.
With an ever-tightening economy, Quito can provide a potential for those considering an expat lifestyle that is both economically practical and socially and culturally exciting.
There is a kind of magnetism in Ecuador’s capital city that is compelling and desirable. Allow Quito to weave its magic and the possibilities are endless.
Map of Quito, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: 1.6 Million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito
Jorge Luis G
Are you looking for a change? One that involves a healthier lifestyle, a more well-rounded cultural experience, and a fatter wallet?
If so, look no further than Ecuador.
With its beautiful surroundings, ever-improving infrastructure, and near-perfect weather, more and more would-be expats are ending their search by finding themselves living in Ecuador. It’s a great place for investors, young families, retirees, and just about anyone else we can think of.
Here are a few of the reasons that those looking for a better life often find it living in Ecuador.
1. Ecuador is consistently ranked one of the best places to retire abroad.
Each year International Living ranks destinations based on factors like climate, cost of living, and friendliness of the locals in its Annual Global Retirement Index. Ecuador has been performing well in most categories in recent years.
In fact, in 2014, it came in a close second (with a score of 91.2 to 91.1) to Panama as the #2 overall destination. The survey results cite a number of reasons that living in Ecuador in retirement is such a great choice, many of which appear later in this list. Two big ones were its affordability and its variety of lifestyle options.
It’s also an easy place to do business. Processes like buying property, investing in business, and getting a visa are all relatively simple in Ecuador.
2. Its various micro-climates offer a little something for everyone.
Not only is it blessed with immense natural beauty, Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. It boasts close to 50 different ecosystems, in a country that’s roughly the size of Nevada.
Overall, most of the country enjoys spring-like weather year round (with merely a wet and dry season), due to its location along the equator. As in most Central American countries, adjusting the temperature or humidity while living in Ecuador is just a matter of moving up or down the mountain as both generally decrease as you ascend.
The Pacific Coast offers an array of picturesque beaches. There are also two chains of the Andes Mountains, which offer relief from the heat and a number of historic colonial cities.
There’s also the tropical and humid Amazon Rainforest which is largely unexplored, save a recent spike in adventure travel. And don’t forget about the breezy Galapagos Islands, a popular attraction among tourists and scientists for decades.
ARKNTINA
3. Your U.S. dollars stretch a lot further living in Ecuador.
One of the most appealing characteristics about Ecuador is its low cost of living. With the exception of some harder-to-find consumer goods, most everything is considerably cheaper than in North America. Also, we mentioned U.S. dollars, because that’s the currency the country uses, since 2000.
You can find a furnished property to rent for as little as $500 per month. Fresh fruits and veggies for the week (enough to feed two) are fresh, readily available, and will only set you back about $15-$20 per week. Fuel in Ecuador is subsidized and hovers right around $1.50 per gallon.
While real estate prices have been steadily climbing in recent years, it’s still extremely affordable compared to North American prices (although costs can vary greatly from one city to the next). You can also splurge on the services of a maid or domestic helper, which will run you about $10-$15 per day.
All in all, most couples find it possible to lead a satisfying lifestyle living in Ecuador on less than $1500 per month.
4. The country’s conditions are conducive to a healthy lifestyle.
The population of Ecuador is one of the healthiest in the region, particularly in cities like Vilcabamba, which is known as the “Valley of Longevity” as its residents reportedly live longer than in any other place on earth.
Much of their well-being is attributed to the clean air and clean water. There’s little pollution, and the rivers that flow down the mountains are fed by the overflow of glacial pools high in the mountains that are rich in minerals and nutrients.
This pure, healthy water nourishes the fruits and vegetables, most of which grow year-round due to the conducive weather conditions. There’s an abundance of organic oranges, bananas, avocados, almonds, papayas, and more.
Due to the fresh produce, as well as the topographical barriers that make importing unhealthy packaged foods rather difficult, most Ecuadorians eat very healthy diets. They’re also quite active, tending gardens on the slopes of the mountains and using their own two legs as their primary mode of transportation.
Maurizio Costanzo
5. Ecuador is rich with culture of every kind.
Whether you’re looking for the arts and music offerings of a first-world country or the authentic cultural charm of a developing one, Ecuador is happy to oblige. It’s home to 13 indigenous populations, many of whom still adhere closely to their native traditions.
You can find groups of natives who still speak their own language and wear their native dress. Yet at the same time, Ecuador’s larger cities offer many of the luxurious amenities you’d expect from the most highly developed destinations.
Cities like Cuenca, Guayaquil, and Quito have the usual list of cultural happenings, such as symphonies, art exhibits, festivals, and museums. Cuenca and Quito are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which makes for the perfect blend of historic and modern culture.
The people of Ecuador are friendly and welcoming. They’re very receptive to foreigners and, as a result, Ecuador is home to people from all over the globe who’ve embraced the country as a fantastic place for enjoying a rich multi-cultural experience.
6. It’s well-connected, both physically and technologically.
Another thing that makes living in Ecuador so convenient is its easy access. It has two international airports, Quito and Guayaquil, and direct flights from the U.S. are less than four hours long.
You can fly straight to Quito from Miami, Houston, and New York, as well as from nearby Panama City, Panama, and Bogota, Colombia. Once in the country, local transportation is also widely available, reliable, and inexpensive.
The country also has a high rate of internet connectivity. Cell phones have relatively good reception, and there are internet cafes throughout most decent size cities. Many homes have high-speed internet, and the government is actively working to increase this percentage.
7. Ecuador offers excellent healthcare.
While you might have to sacrifice a few first-world conveniences when making the transition to living in Ecuador, quality health care isn’t one of them. Quite the contrary.
In most of Ecuador’s larger cities you’ll find world-class medical facilities with the latest technology. Many doctors speak English, and a large number of them trained in the U.S. They spend more one-on-one time with patients, often offering their personal cell phone numbers or calling patients at home to check on their progress.
Despite the impressive quality of the medical care in Ecuador, the prices are only a fraction of what you’d pay for the same services in North America. As a result, it’s become a popular destination for medical tourism.
Patients travel to Ecuador to receive services such as plastic surgery, dental procedures, orthopedics, and more. The country is also well known for its alternative medicine and natural healing options.
Maurizio Costanzo
8. Ecuador is a great place to pursue the American (or any other) Dream.
Many North Americans these days would agree that the American Dream is broken. It’s becoming increasingly more difficult to realize success and have the things you want for your family, while still having enough spare time and money to enjoy them.
The reality is, though, that all of the things associated with that ideal quality of life we dream about are available in much greater abundance in Ecuador. It’s the South American Dream, if you will.
Living in Ecuador you can spend more time doing what you love (in some fantastic surroundings, we might add) and less time doing the bland, tedious, hurried things you wish you never had to do again.
That’s not to say you can’t pursue your passions and live the life you’ve always envisioned in North America. You can. It’s just that the ability to do so is now financially out of reach for most of its residents.
Who wants to expend every last drop of their time, energy, and money just to pay the bills and stay afloat in a merely nice suburb when you can work less, experience more, and enjoy the unsurpassed beauty of a place like Ecuador?
Give Living in Ecuador Some Thought
These and other reasons are why so many families are realizing their version of the American Dream, just a little further south of the border. Ecuador is a great place to live immersed in authentic culture, without giving up any of the modern conveniences you crave, and with still enough left over to explore everything else the region has to offer.
There’s a reason Ecuador continues to top the charts of best places to retire or even visit abroad. And it’s been further validated by the thousands of expats who now call it home. Living in Ecuador is more than just a bargain retirement. It’s a value proposition that’s definitely worth considering.
Map of Ecuador
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: 15,439,429
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito
When looking at lists published by international living gurus citing the best places to live in and retire to overseas, the nations of Ecuador and Panama consistently appear among the places with the highest rankings.
As beautiful, affordable tropical destinations go, they’re among the best of the best. And, while they’re both excellent overall as places to retire, raise a family, start a business, or just live for a short time, each has certain areas where it shines brighter than the other.
We’d be hard-pressed to say which country is the best or, even more specifically, which one is the best for YOU and your particular situation. That decision is best left up to your family, based on your individual needs and priorities.
What we can do is highlight a few categories that are important to expat families and tell you which country excels in that area.
D. Bmcnicol
Round #1 – Lifestyle Hacks
Winner: It’s a Tie
One of the coolest things about living abroad is the ability to enlist help for tasks that you might be fed up with doing yourself, but would’ve never had the means to hire out in North America. Some examples are maids, gardeners, drivers, tutors, and nannies.
And domestic help is abundant and affordable in both Panama and Ecuador. We’d be tempted to give this category to Ecuador for its lower cost (around $10 per day for the services of a maid vs. $15 for the same work in Panama).
However, as is often true, you tend to get what you pay for. So some might argue that the quality of service you receive from domestic helpers is superior in Panama.
Eddie Codel
Round #2 – Connectivity
Outcome: Panama By a Nose
This is another area where both countries excel far beyond the reach of most of their Latin American neighbors. And, up until recently, this category would have gone to Panama by a landslide.
However, Ecuador is aggressively working to improve its internet coverage. As a result, the country’s connectivity is increasing by leaps and bounds with a goal of access in 50% of households by 2015. (It’s currently closer to 35%.) Free public access centers are also widely available across the country.
While Ecuador’s connectivity is great, Panama’s is excellent due in part to a long-standing U.S. military presence. In fact, it ranks #2 in all of Latin America for technology and internet penetration and #1 for wireless availability.
Most Panamanian cities offer affordable broadband service, and there are free wi-fi hotspots nationwide. Because of its technological advances, companies such as Dell, 3M, and Philips have chosen it for their regional headquarters and customer service centers.
Pavel Kirillov
Round #3 – Living Options
Slight Edge: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama have a lot to offer in terms of variety of living options. When it comes to mountain towns, Cuenca, Ecuador, and Boquete, Panama, are among some of the top expat destinations in Latin America. There are others as well, such as Loja, Quito, and Vilcabamba in Ecuador and Volcan, El Valle, and Santa Fe in Panama.
There are also popular beach towns in both countries. Salinas, Ecuador, has been compared to Miami’s South Beach. There’s also Montanita and Manta. Panama has Bocas del Toro, the quintessential Caribbean beach town, as well as Coronado and Pedasi.
Panama City trumps places like Ecuador’s Quito and Guayaquil if you’re looking for something that more closely resembles a first-world city. The other place where Panama takes the cake is with its options for island living. Ecuador has the Galapagos Islands, a great place for tourists to visit or explore but not necessarily live.
However, Panama offers options like Boca Chica Island, which offer nature-loving expats the opportunity to own their very own piece of a private island that’s only a hour away from the country’s second-largest city and an international airport.
Wogo 24220
Round #4 – Green Living
Winner: Ecuador
While Panama has long had its sights on continuing to improve its infrastructure and commerce, it lags a bit behind in its sustainability initiatives. However, it is making some strides in the right direction. Take for instance the village of Kalu Yala, a development that has a goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable residential community.
Most green efforts in Panama are more grass roots and less government-driven. On the other hand, Ecuador has the unique distinction of being the only country in the world where the rights of the natural environment are protected by the nation’s constitution.
Sustainability issues are on the government’s radar in Ecuador as it battles issues like the threat of drilling in its Yasuni National Park, the most biodiverse place on earth.
Vilseskogen
Round #5 – Cost of Living
Clear Winner: Ecuador
Ecuador and Panama both offer the ability to live satisfying lifestyles for a fraction of the North American budget. As you can imagine, prices vary greatly from one city to the next, with some of the more developed areas running much closer to U.S. prices.
However, overall the cost of living is considerably less in Ecuador. In fact, it’s often one of the country’s biggest selling points, with many expat couples claiming to live just fine on a mere $1200 per month including rent, which averages around $450. This includes luxuries like high speed internet and once-a-week maid service.
Both countries have great discount programs for their senior adults, with Panama’s pensionado program being one of its most attractive benefits for retirees. However for most expats, particularly young families, it’s cheaper to live in Ecuador.
Rivera Notario
Round #6 – Ease of Access
Advantage: Panama
This was an easy one. Mainly because the majority of Ecuador’s incoming flights have layovers in places like Panama City (as well as Miami, Bogota, and places in the Caribbean). As a result, travel to Ecuador is longer and a bit more expensive.
It does have great public transportation once you fly in to Quito or Guayaquil, as well as connecting flights to a number of regional airports.
By contrast, Panama’s recently expanded Tocumen International Airport receives direct incoming flights from multiple U.S. cities, as well as various points in South America. David’s Enrique Malek International Airport will also soon begin welcoming international flights, opening up the western regions of Panama to expats and tourists from all over the world.
Matthew Straubmuller
Round #7 – Business Climate
Champion: Panama, Hands Down
To decide this category, you only need to look at the stats. The International Finance Corporation ranks Panama 55th in the world for ease of doing business, compared to Ecuador’s rank of 135th. This survey is based on factors that affect one’s ability to start and operate a local business.
This comes as no surprise, as Panama’s government has historically been extremely pro-business and pro-investor. It’s also somewhat of a tax haven and an increasingly popular place to open an offshore bank account. Panama also offers a whole host of visa options, with the number of choices increasing frequently.
Ecuador, on the other hand, has a reputation of being a bit unstable and unpredictable. It struggles with issues such as high government turnover rates and an economy that is based a bit too heavily on petroleum.
However, Ecuador’s economy is growing. The country is also taking steps to reduce the government’s influence in certain business sectors.
Gaspar Serrano
Round #8 – Banking
Advantage: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama benefit from having a dollarized economy. However, both have seen requirements tightening in recent years due to laws like FATCA and other U.S. tax evasion agreements. As a result, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for foreigners to open an account.
That being said, the banking process is far more friendly to foreigners in Panama. It’s home to a number of international banks and is emerging as a major player on the global banking scene.
Ecuador, on the other hand, suffers from inconsistent regulations and subpar accounting standards, although its banks’ performance has improved in recent years. Due to the inconsistencies, however, the process of opening an account can be a bit long and tedious.
thinkpanama
Round #9 – Investment Opportunities
Our Pick: Panama
When you look at the ingredients for a savvy investment, they include factors like low costs, massive infrastructure projects, a focus on tourism, and government incentives. Both Ecuador and Panama have all of these. And lots of them.
Panama just has more. Its real estate is still affordable. The government has recently invested $15 billion in projects like airport expansions, new roads, and a metro system. There are tax breaks on everything from the importation of building materials to build a hotel to income tax on land purchased for reforestation.
Ecuador offers many of those same advantages, and often at a lower cost. So you could argue that in Ecuador there’s a bit more room for appreciation. However, the benefits of investing in Panama are just still too good to award this category to anyone else.
Presidencia de Republic de Ecuador
Round #10 – Health Care
Outcome: Another Tie
Ecuador and Panama both benefit from having excellent health care systems, with skilled medical staff and modern facilities. English is widely spoken by doctors in both countries, many of whom trained in the U.S, and hospitals offer the latest in technological advancements.
The low cost of care is also a big plus, with procedures generally running about ¼ of the price for the same service in North America. Health insurance is also affordable and widely available.
Both countries suffer from the same main drawback in this category: availability in rural areas. While they both have state-of-the-art hospitals, they’re found only in the largest cities. Clinics in more remote locations may be limited to basic services or even first aid only.
ThinkPanama
Round #11 – Consumer Goods
Winner: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama have a surprisingly good selection of consumer goods. As a result, you usually need only drive to the nearest city to find exactly what you’re looking for, or at least a comparable replacement.
Where Ecuador suffers in this arena is due to its ever-increasing taxes. Many items have become more difficult to find, or at least more expensive, in recent years. Consequently, fewer and fewer items (like vehicles and cell phones) are being imported.
Panama, on the other hand, has become quite the shopping hub for folks all across Latin America. This is due in part to its low value-added tax of 7% (vs. 12% in Ecuador). We’ve even seen people who traveled from Ecuador to Panama City to buy several flat-screen TV’s due to the better prices and availability.
D. Rorfold
Round #12 – Foreign Land Ownership
Victor: Panama
In both Ecuador and Panama, foreigners who buy property have their rights protected by the constitution just the same as nationals of that country. There are also few restrictions on what land they can buy. Well, there’s only one really, and it’s in Panama where foreigners can’t own land within 10 kilometers of the border.
Both countries offer an abundance of land available at, in some cases, rock-bottom prices. However due diligence is absolutely necessary before buying land in either country.
Purchasing real estate as a foreigner can be a challenge, but the whole process is a bit easier in Panama. A good attorney is a must, so choose one who’s experienced in land transactions and can handle things like researching the title, drafting contracts, and registering the deed.
D Rorfold
And the Grand Champion Is…
Nah. We didn’t keep score. There’s just too much to love about both of these countries for us to try to give the trophy to one or the other.
What’s more important than our opinion is your own experience with each of these fine countries. So, if Ecuador and Panama are on your short list of potential expat destinations, then we suggest you open a new tab and start looking for flights. There’s no better way to pick a winner than to just let the two duke it out firsthand.
Map of Panama
Panama Fast Facts
- Population: 3.8 million
- Typical temperature: Temperature typically varies from 72°F to 91°F
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: U.S. bound flights leave daily from Tocumen International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
Map of Ecuador
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: About 15.49 million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito and Guayaquil
OliverH
There’s a lot of buzz about Ecuador as an expat haven that’s among the world’s best places to retire or live in Latin America. But not a lot of people know much about it.
Like, for starters, where is Ecuador? I mean, it’s on the equator, right? Hence the name. But doesn’t that mean it’s unbearably hot?
And is it a long way away? How do I get there and how long is the flight?
We’ll answer these and other questions you may have about this popular destination. But let’s start with the most important one.
Where Is Ecuador on a Map?
There it is! Right there on the west coast of northern South America. Between Colombia to the north and Peru to the south. The equator does pass through it, roughy ¼ of the way down, near Quito.
Andrew Turner
How Do I Get There?
Ecuador has two main airports. There’s Mariscal Sucre in Quito and Simon Bolivar in Guayaquil. Quito’s airport is new and modern. It even has an on-site hotel that’s currently being built. However, both are a bit of a hike from the city. The old airport, which was more centrally located, is now closed and is being transformed into a park.
Some travelers also fly into Guayaquil on the coast. It also has a modern international airport with all the amenities you’d expect, like restaurants and duty-free shopping. It’s only a few minutes north of the downtown area.
Once in the country, buses are plentiful and affordable. There are also a number of regional airports, including two in the Galapagos Islands, which can only be accessed via mainland Ecuador.
What Airlines Fly into Ecuador?
U.S. Airlines that offer flights to Ecuador include Delta, United, and American Airlines. TAME, an Ecuador-based airline, flies into New York City. LAN Ecuador also flies there, as well as Miami.
From the U.K., you can fly American Airlines from Heathrow to Quito. KLM will also get you to Quito from Heathrow, by way of Amsterdam.
Other airlines that fly into Ecuador from destinations throughout Latin America are Copa, Avianca, Aeromexico, Iberia, and TACA.
Morpholux
Do I Need a Visa to Go There?
Not unless you want to stay for more than three months. By presidential decree, citizens of any country may visit Ecuador and stay for a period of 90 days. You won’t need a visa. However, you’ll want to check with your embassy to see what other paperwork might be required. For North Americans and most European travelers, it’s usually just a passport and a copy of your return ticket.
Sara Y Tzunky
When Is the Best Time to Go?
Because Ecuador is located on the equator, it has roughly the same weather year-round. So there’s really no bad time to visit. However, depending on the region, some seasons are a little better than others, as Ecuador’s climate varies greatly among its four distinct areas.
The coastal lowlands stay between 80 and 90 degrees. During the rainy season (December to April), you can expect a torrential downpour pretty much every day.
The Andean highlands are much cooler with daytime highs in the mid 70s. Nights can get pretty cool with lows around 50 degrees. The rainy season is the same, with April generally being the wettest month and June to September representing the driest period.
The Amazon region is probably much closer to what most people picture when they try to imagine a climate along the equator. Predominantly tropical lowland rainforest, it’s hot and humid with temps in the 80s and 90s and steady rainfall throughout the year.
It’s still popular among adventure travelers despite its challenging climate. The frequent showers make for excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Despite being situated almost directly along the equator, the Galapagos Islands get some relief from the heat thanks to the cool Pacific waters. As result, they enjoy temps between the mid 60s and upper 80s with surprisingly little rainfall.
What Places in Ecuador Should I Visit?
Ecuador is jam-packed with natural wonders and cultural attractions. Here are some of the most popular spots that you won’t want to miss.
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Banos is the adventure capital of Ecuador. It sits at the foot of the active Volcano Tungurahua. It’s also surrounded by a number of hot spring mineral baths.
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Canoa is a beach town that hasn’t lost its appeal as primarily a laid-back fishing village.
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Cotacachi is a small village that’s only 90 minutes from the capital city of Quito. It enjoys a rich cultural heritage.
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Cuenca is a beautiful colonial city in the mountains that’s quickly becoming one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America.
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Esmeraldas is a cozy beach town that’s a little more laid-back but still one of the country’s most popular.
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The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago scattered far off the country’s coast. Made famous by Charles Darwin, they’re visited by scientists and nature lovers from all over the world.
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Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. A bustling coastal town, it’s a functioning port city with a relaxed Caribbean feel.
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Loja is another mountain town that’s growing in popularity. Smaller and more affordable, it’s known for its cultural importance and musical roots.
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Manta is a beach town that offers coastal living combined with all the big city amenities of a modern industrial city.
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Montanita is another popular beach town. Known for its surfing and nightlife, it attracts a whole host of colorful characters from all walks of life.
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Otavalo is another mountain town that has retained its quaint, authentic appeal. It’s most famous for its popular textile market.
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Quito is Ecuador’s capital city. Located in the mountains, it has a well-preserved historic district and a monument situated on the equator marking the “middle of the world.”
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Riobamba is the gateway to Mount Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. It’s also the starting point of the famous train ride down the Nariz del Diablo.
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Salinas is a crowded beach town that’s often dubbed the Miami of Latin America. It’s popular among locals and boasts a number of water sports.
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Vilcabamba is located high in the mountains. Its water comes from melting glacier pools and is among the purest on earth, possibly contributing to the good health and longevity of its residents.
As you can tell, there’s a lot to see and do in Ecuador. It’s also one of the least expensive destinations of its kind. Now that you know how to get there, consider taking a trip to experience the sights of Ecuador firsthand.
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: About 15.49 million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates, learn more here.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito and Guayaquil
Ecuador is about the size of Colorado. It straddles two hemispheres and is a symphony of culture and adventure. We’ve rounded up the best Ecuador has to offer, and if you’ve got six minutes, take an amazing video tour of this South American Gem.
The country is made up of a tropical climate along the coastline, it becomes cooler inland at higher elevations and remains tropical in the Amazonian jungle lowlands. The capital, Quito, is a world heritage site and a favorite expat destination along with the cooler climate of Cuenca.
It is impossible to miss the hill known as El Panecillo Mirador, in Quito, which is topped by its statue of the Virgen de Quito who watches over and protects the city. Although not high in comparison with the volcanoes among which the city nestles, it dominates the skyline when you look south down any of Quito’s colonial streets.
There are two reasons to come here – the statue, and the view. Start with the statue. At 41 meters tall and made of seven thousand pieces of aluminium, it’s pretty awesome in its own right.
Yes, the views – spectacular, on a clear morning you can see Quito spread out beneath you and beyond the city to the surrounding volcanoes.
Don’t forget to look down; just below the feet of the Virgin is another sight, the so-called Olla del Panecillo. This large cistern is traditionally said to be of Inca origin, but recent tests have dated it to after the Spanish conquest.