So sorry to see you go Don. I think your videos were of great service, informative, honest & to the point . And as you always said “ if you don’t like it Bite Me! And I say that with peace & love.”
There is always a time we all must go. Even JP and Amelia left Ecuador for greener pastures. They claim to still be Ecuadorians, but I doubt it. Good luck Don!
Thanks for your honest and insightful commentary on Ecuador. I have followed your channel since meeting you in Manta. It was on our discovery trip to Manta that we became aware that other TH-camrs (JP & A) promote every place they've been as "sunshine and lollipops". Your integrity has been unwavering and I hope you know what a wonderful resource you have been. I will miss your videos and wish you all the best!
It's true what you've said, Susan. Many people were upset at JP & A because of not sharing the negative news early on. It's always refreshing to hear the truth. Many people need that, especially newbies! Yet, some people (especially those with a money-related conflict of interest) don't want folks to share the truth. I'm sorry to say, but those real estate agents are not acting ethically. Especially on the coast where there is still so much crime, it shouldn't ever be hidden. Don -- You are not killing the real estate market, the crime is. Just pretending crime doesn't exist in order to get back to selling or renting like hotcakes is unconscionable. You're just the messenger, & I hope people can just accept that.
Don't worry about the haters / "professionals" Don. You're genuine and your input has helped many. That has value. Enjoy the rest of your time in Ecuador and please do hit me up if you get to Cuenca. Be great to catch up again.
Don, I for one have appreciated your efforts and if not for you and the married couple, I’d have never tuned into Ecuador! Take a break and if it turns into a forever break, well thanks for being frank and informative . Best to you, Don F
Thanks Don for all the insight. I’m also part of the silent crowd, but really appreciated your channel. I will miss your honesty and humor, there aren't so many channels like yours! I totally understand the pressure, though. Take care!
Thanks, Don for all your effort, you were right on. My Ecuadorian wife and I live in the countryside where it's still civil and quiet. She has her family who are wonderful people and our neighbors both Ecuadorians and ex-pats are respectful of each other and we all mind our own business. We did live in Manta and I'm so glad we got out of there.
@@gw5033 Looks like Don might be getting harassed. He put up with a leaking apartment, loud motorcycles, dogs barking, car horns and alarms. His license number has been used illegally by criminals. He has experienced earthquakes and unfriendly neighbors as well. Now, he's being harassed by some locals, I think.
My wife is from Ecuador. I am a gringo. Both she and I are part of the quiet majority and really don’t comment…maybe we should have, we have thoroughly enjoyed your channel.
We are in the US now sailing our boat up the east coast after leaving the Bahamas. I have visited Ecuador multiple times. My favorite place is Banos. We are not sure if we will live in the NC mountains in the U.S. or go back to Ecuador. It is an adventure.
You will love it. If we move there my wife wants to live near Cuenca but outside the city in the mountains. The traffic there is terrible but it is beautiful and the only city we visited where you can drink the city water. It is beautiful and very clean. There are a lot of gringos there as well. But for me that does not matter.
In true grumpiness Don, Fak em all. Thank you for all the Ecuador updates for me it's been educational and entertaining. Sad to see you go but you come first, good luck and Chao Chao!
Don, I watch your videos all the time, I am currently looking into moving to Ecuador in the next five years, I hope you reconsidering continue making videos. You give a very candid view of things and with that you can always expect some negative feedback, but I have appreciated your videos and hope you reconsider and keep making them. And with anything in life, it’s a damn if you do and damn if you don’t 😂
Don, I understand what you are saying. But I think you should know that as I consider relocating to Ecuador, I genuinely consider your experiences and perspectives. You are helpful. I sincerely hope you find a way to comfortably continue. Of course you are not going to avoid trolls and idiots. They are too plentiful. Remember that 'stupid' is a diagnosis and there is no cure. You are not the problem. Too many are not willing to take responsibility for themselves. But for those of us who do, you are tremendously helpful. Each video I have seen is much appreciated. I look for your posts. If you discontinue, I think it is safe to say that a lot of us will be sad and feeling a little more adrift than we used to. Whatever you choose to do, I wish the best for you. Please know that you and your efforts are appreciated.
I know this video wasn’t a spare of the moment decision. I respect your decision. Please know I really enjoyed each and every one of them. You helped me in many different ways. I do hope we get to visit with you someday once we move to Ecuador. I hope we can keep in contact…best to you always! Thank you Don!
Perhaps a grumpy old man is grumpy wherever he lives. And his infection spreads to whomever he contacts. May the grace that God has given you pne day open your eyes to the beauty of His creation.
Sir! Thank you for being you! I love your videos. You inspire me. I lost my father a couple of years ago and you’re a bit younger than he was but you’re the first older gentleman I’ve taken the time to listen to. Please don’t stop your videos. I love listening to you.
Hi Don, I can't tell you whether to stop or not. Just, I have enjoyed your candor. I can imagine traveling to Manta or different places around the world. Plan to for the next 5 years. I can not imagine any place in the world is perfect all the time. I am not happy with Tampa Bay or the USA in general, All The Time. I would encourage you not to carry this too heavily on your shoulders. Thank you for all you do. Best wishes for you. High regards, Rock
Hi Don! You’ve been a great provider of info and humor! I appreciate all your efforts over the years. I enjoyed meeting you a couple of years ago. If you are ever in Cuenca, look us up and we will buy you a meal. Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do. We wish you the best always!
I have always appreciated your experience and candor, plus the honesty you bring to your videos. I certainly can relate to your perspectives and always value that you tell it like it is. I wish you the best friend.
Don, I’m really sorry you’re stopping the videos, but I appreciate all the information you’ve provided over the past few years. Thank you! I will be in touch by email when I finally get there. Hoping for November now!
Don I have appreciated your grumpiness,humor and most of all your honesty in sharing with us your adventures ups and downs.thank you again and am wishing you and colonel Parker all the best.
Would you ever want to discuss what it was like getting a driver's license? Really wondering what the steps were, how it went in Spanish, how you practiced, were there required lessons, etc. Maybe you made a video on this already? Anyways, it's so sad you're leaving YT (for the most part), but wishing you the best! Thank you 👍
Hello my friend. I'm sorry to see you go, but definitely understand that you have to do what's best for YOU. You have accomplished a great mission here, and you have helped a lot of people both virtually and in reality and I am one of those people. You are a great guy Don, and I know your heart will continue to help in whatever way you can. Enjoy the chill and be blessed!
Ok, just some notes: 1) Many thanks to you for the pertinent and valid and dam honest information you have provided, from Cuenca to Manta and beyond. EC is not perfect, but it is certainly ok. I've seen not all, but at least 95% of your vids, and I thank you for them, 2) I met you because I had seen your channel, and what I saw is a Usonian in Ecuador, representing the USA well, a person not being an ugly American, a decent person, 3) I'm happiest for you that you found someone to be with in EC, nothing better than that, 42) Personally I just sent, this morning, my residency application to another country........because my ins, prop tax, and HOA fees (largely more insurance) have risen 80% since 2020. That's 20% raises per year. Idk who gets raises of 20% per year, but it's def not me. You nailed it when you said EC is cheap. It is def affordable compared to the USA and a magnet for average people driven out of the USA by greedy corporate yacht monsters who have a licence to bill. I hate to leave the USA, but the USA is giving me no choice.
I really liked your "driving around videos". We got to see the place some more...and you were happy in those. Those were the good old days, I guess. We understand your predicament. Surprise us all with some good news sometime. Thanks for all of it. See ya 'round, gringo.
Don, Thanks for all of your videos. Appreciate all that you have done and welcome any new videos. If not enjoy your life in retirement and keep on keeping on!
Hi Don, Ive been following you during your journey in Ecuador from the beginning. I have always found your videos inspirational. Sometimes we just need a break from the routine and that's understandable. Hopefully you'll return with updates, you'll be missed. Farewell my friend.
Don. Your content has always been fair and objective, which has made it so compelling! You should feel free to do whatever you want in choosing a home or running a You tube channel. Thank you so much for what you have shared over the past few years. We wish you the brightest future!
This makes me sad. I have enjoyed your straightforward stories and quirky humor in these videos. I hope you reconsider sometime to come back and make more videos. Best of luck to you!
You've done a good job with your channel and you've put yourself our there. That's more than most people have the courage to do. I'm sorry to see you leave because of how you were treated by other people. I have enjoyed your channel and wish you all the very best.
Nice work mate. You're a true gentleman. I've enjoyed all your hard work and I know exactly how hard it is. Seriously, good job. We'll all miss you mate. Enjoy whatever is next and all the best 🍻
Oh nooo. That's sad. I will miss U. I learned from u many things. I hope u where not threatened and feel u have to stop. I truly wish u all the best in whatever u do and wherever u will be. Take care u honest and funny human with a big Heart. Please "Bite Me" and I say that with peace and love🙏.
My wife and I have been following you a long time. We considered retiring to Ecuador. But we found rural Arkansas is very affordable. We have been living in Arkansas for two years. And the flights back to Chicago are very cheap too. I made some spreadsheets comparing cost with Ecuador and it's breakeven. Plus we get to keep all our stuff.
Thanks for all your contributions, videos and insights. I totally understand what I think you might be going through. I concur that the best thing in Ecuador is that everything is cheaper; Then there are food items that are unique and tasty too; but there are also genuinely good people here and there as well. Be on the look out for my email... I'd like to talk to you for like you I am a resilient survivor too.
Thank You Don for your videos. I really enjoy them, and I think all of us who commented did as well. Keep doing them! But if this is really it, then i understand. May God continue to bless you! Stay safe!
While I completely understand your reasons for no longer posting Ecuador related vids, I think it's a shame you have soured on posting videos altogether. More than the valuable information provided, it is your affable personality and humor that kept me coming back. Heck, you could start doing instructional cooking videos and I would set you to Notify. I just plain enjoy watching and listening to The Grumpy Old Gringo. If it is the end of the road, then I wish you as much happiness and joy that you have given us.
I have learned a lot from your content. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your time Ecuador. I hope you take a break and come back with more.😊😊😊😊
Thank you Don. This is the first time I have commented on in five years of watching TH-cam videos. I have enjoyed and appreciated all your videos - and I have felt part of your life. I am moving to Ecuador next month and your videos have been enormously helpful to me. I just enjoy your voice and genuine kindness, and your personality. I hope you realise give much sunshine you have brought to our worlds. I wish you great happiness in your future. Susie
Don, I will really miss your videos. I really enjoyed your sense of humor, all the information, the details, and how you said it like it is, to the point. I'm sad over you being done, but I also understand and wish you happiness & no stress. Maybe you'll reconsider in the future........I hope. ❤❤❤❤
You need to worry about yourself. I like your videos by the way. Do you have another topic you want to start doing videos on? I would watch no matter what the content.
We are sad to see you go. Always looked forward to seeing you in our notifications and always appreciated your honesty. Hope to see you later if you do choose another adventure.
Maybe continue with coverage of everyday community events and photos of the places you visit? Not so much narrative about the ups and downs of living there, but like a travel diary.
Hi Don😊 i wish you happiness & success whatever you decide for yourself. I'm an expat living abroad. I always enjoyed your frankness to be honest. I think it's important to remember to be true to yourself and not worry so much about what others think, say or do. Whatever makes you happy and gives you peace, do that ❤
I have thoroughly enjoyed and received value to your videos!!! Yes, sometimes you are “grumpy” but you say that and that’s who you are! Your info is real and funny and I will miss you!!!😢❤
Well Don, the only thing for sure is change. Life is a journey and I'm glad you were kind enough to share your experiences. I will miss your content and screw em if they can't handle the truth. Stay safe, enjoy your life and maybe you will get bored and power back up! Best wishes to you Don. 😢
Best to you in the future, Don. With so many political problems here in South America right now, not to mention the U.S. and many other areas of the world, it does seem like making your videos would be almost impossible. Life here was so different 3 years ago or 8 years ago for us, but now, who the hell knows what will happen from day to day, month to month, not to mention the upcoming elections. And then when angry subscribers try to make you the scapegoat, well, you don't need that. I would not go back to the US ever, but neither would I want to give anyone else advice at this point in time. Hugs and stay safe.
Hello Don, I am sorry to see you go. Your videos were not only informative but also entertaining. I have enjoyed your views on living abroad and about life in general. I will most likely be emailing you but I have my fingers crossed that you are only taking a well-deserved break from the videos and will continue at a later date. Take care Don and good luck moving forward. You have a lot of fans.
Thanks for the videos Don. Sorry things got to the point where they interfered with your channel. I've found your vids informative and entertaining. Good luck to you and again, thanks.
Don, it's GREAT to see you! We respect your decision, but we will miss your videos, candor, advice, and sense of humor. You have certainly made an impact and been a great influence on our plans to retire to Ecuador. You will be greatly missed and I hope that it is okay to keep in touch via email from time to time. - Tim and Tracie
Well, first of all, you do have thousands and thousands of viewers. 7.69K to be exact. :) Your content is great. However, you are even greater than that. You have lifted my spirits several times. I thank you, Don. ¡¡Cuídate!! 💙
Always enjoyed your videos Don. They were helpful to me in planning my exploratory trip to Ecuador. I hope that in the future you may find a reason to return to YT. I hope to see you return to Instagram as well. What ever you do I wish you happiness and success. Thanks so much.
Sending many regards from The Netherlands 🌷🇪🇺🧀🚴🏻♀️🇳🇱🚴🏼💐 Don. Thank for your videos and informations you’ve been posting. Best off luck 🍀 with your future plans /decisions. Ciao Ciao
Your the best! Ive seen others. I always come back to yours! You are loved! Because of your realism and honesty and you speak from the heart! Another words you give of yourself! Viva Ecuador!
Thanks friend, for all your great information. I've learned a lot from you over the years. Your contrary view on things has kept my eyes open to many things about Ecuador. I hope you can give us some "final chapter" videos once you know how things are gonna be for you in the future.
Thank you, Don, for your dedication through the years in helping and educating complete strangers from around the world. I appreciate your many dedicated efforts and refreshing honesty. (You could never be a U.S. journalist or politician!!) Best wishes to you in your future endeavors. Head held high, sir!
Don, very sorry if you leave. One of the best and most honest and real reports from anywhere. so upfront and from the heart. I always looked forward to them! Thank you for your honesty. You are appreciated! Whatever you decide I support you. Thank you!,,
Well Don, I for one have enjoyed your commentary. Before and after I moved to Manta.So excited to have met you in person, out and about here. ENJOY your free time
Don, So sorry that people are such that you feel you need to go. Personally I've always enjoyed your content and humor and the way you tell it like it is. I'm not really considering moving to Ecuador but my wife and I did retire and traveled for about 2 years and lived in Colombia. We did finally decide to come back to the USA. We also looked into Ecuador which is where I found your channel. I watched it because of you and your sense of humor and topics. If I ever did decide to move to Ecuador I thought you gave a lot of good information. Some people are just idiots. As the saying goes, "You can't fix stupid." Enjoy your time off and know that so many people enjoyed your content and that you will be missed. Hope after some time you will come back and don't give a dam about what people say.
Going to miss your videos. I learned a lot from them. Hoping that maybe after a break you'll change your mind and create another video or two. Glad you're keeping the channel up. Take care and thanks for the entertainment.
I have enjoyed your videos, I looked forward to them every week. I am going to Ecuador next week, I will be there for almost 2 months. It is an exploratory trip. I will see locations from the beachs to the mountains. Best of luck to you. I hope to see more videos from you they are really enjoyable. If not bite me!
I'm so sorry to see you go, Don. Since joining you channel, I have thoroughly enjoyed the content that you shared as well as your honesty. I especially enjoyed your interviews with GM Ace. I finally arrived here in Cuenca 3 months ago and your channel has helped shape some of my decisions (ex. not to own a car due to the cloned tag issue). Anyway, best of luck to you and Stella. Just know that you have an audience that loves you should be ever decide to return to TH-cam.
So sorry to see you go Don. I think your videos were of great service, informative, honest & to the point . And as you always said “ if you don’t like it Bite Me! And I say that with peace & love.”
One of the more honest accounts of things I’ve seen on TH-cam in awhile. Refreshy
There is always a time we all must go. Even JP and Amelia left Ecuador for greener pastures. They claim to still be Ecuadorians, but I doubt it. Good luck Don!
Thanks for your honest and insightful commentary on Ecuador. I have followed your channel since meeting you in Manta. It was on our discovery trip to Manta that we became aware that other TH-camrs (JP & A) promote every place they've been as "sunshine and lollipops". Your integrity has been unwavering and I hope you know what a wonderful resource you have been. I will miss your videos and wish you all the best!
I appreciate that!
It's true what you've said, Susan. Many people were upset at JP & A because of not sharing the negative news early on. It's always refreshing to hear the truth. Many people need that, especially newbies! Yet, some people (especially those with a money-related conflict of interest) don't want folks to share the truth. I'm sorry to say, but those real estate agents are not acting ethically. Especially on the coast where there is still so much crime, it shouldn't ever be hidden.
Don -- You are not killing the real estate market, the crime is. Just pretending crime doesn't exist in order to get back to selling or renting like hotcakes is unconscionable. You're just the messenger, & I hope people can just accept that.
Thanks for all the hard work you’ve put into this channel over the last three years. I wish you the best of luck Don
I’m sad to hear this has been a drag on you, Don. Your videos are always a delight in my inbox. Thank you for this great service ❤
Don't worry about the haters / "professionals" Don. You're genuine and your input has helped many. That has value. Enjoy the rest of your time in Ecuador and please do hit me up if you get to Cuenca. Be great to catch up again.
All the best to you, Don. Thanks and I hope to hear good things from you in the future.
I have learned so much from your videos. Thank you for sharing your experience with boots on the ground.
Don, I for one have appreciated your efforts and if not for you and the married couple, I’d have never tuned into Ecuador! Take a break and if it turns into a forever break, well thanks for being frank and informative . Best to you, Don F
Thanks Don for keeping it real. I pray for good health and happiness for you in your future endeavors ❤.
Happy trails to you. Thank you for your information and best of everything.
The world was better with Don around.
Thanks Don for all the insight. I’m also part of the silent crowd, but really appreciated your channel. I will miss your honesty and humor, there aren't so many channels like yours! I totally understand the pressure, though. Take care!
Hi Don. I am sorry to see you go! You were honest and informative. Thank you for all your hard work! Life is short and you have to be happy!🎉
Thanks, Don for all your effort, you were right on. My Ecuadorian wife and I live in the countryside where it's still civil and quiet. She has her family who are wonderful people and our neighbors both Ecuadorians and ex-pats are respectful of each other and we all mind our own business. We did live in Manta and I'm so glad we got out of there.
@@gw5033 Why did you leave Manta? Where did you go?
Wanted a more private life where it's quiet , we are 5 km inland from Manglaralto
@@gw5033 Looks like Don might be getting harassed. He put up with a leaking apartment, loud motorcycles, dogs barking, car horns and alarms. His license number has been used illegally by criminals. He has experienced earthquakes and unfriendly neighbors as well. Now, he's being harassed by some locals, I think.
My wife is from Ecuador. I am a gringo. Both she and I are part of the quiet majority and really don’t comment…maybe we should have, we have thoroughly enjoyed your channel.
Do you & the wife live in USA or Ecuador?
We are in the US now sailing our boat up the east coast after leaving the Bahamas. I have visited Ecuador multiple times. My favorite place is Banos. We are not sure if we will live in the NC mountains in the U.S. or go back to Ecuador. It is an adventure.
@@CinthyaFranklinBanos is on my radar. Visiting, researching this Winter 2024. I meets a lot of my criteria
You will love it. If we move there my wife wants to live near Cuenca but outside the city in the mountains. The traffic there is terrible but it is beautiful and the only city we visited where you can drink the city water. It is beautiful and very clean. There are a lot of gringos there as well. But for me that does not matter.
In true grumpiness Don, Fak em all. Thank you for all the Ecuador updates for me it's been educational and entertaining. Sad to see you go but you come first, good luck and Chao Chao!
Don, I watch your videos all the time, I am currently looking into moving to Ecuador in the next five years, I hope you reconsidering continue making videos. You give a very candid view of things and with that you can always expect some negative feedback, but I have appreciated your videos and hope you reconsider and keep making them. And with anything in life, it’s a damn if you do and damn if you don’t 😂
You will be missed so much!
Don, I understand what you are saying. But I think you should know that as I consider relocating to Ecuador, I genuinely consider your experiences and perspectives. You are helpful. I sincerely hope you find a way to comfortably continue. Of course you are not going to avoid trolls and idiots. They are too plentiful. Remember that 'stupid' is a diagnosis and there is no cure. You are not the problem. Too many are not willing to take responsibility for themselves. But for those of us who do, you are tremendously helpful. Each video I have seen is much appreciated. I look for your posts. If you discontinue, I think it is safe to say that a lot of us will be sad and feeling a little more adrift than we used to. Whatever you choose to do, I wish the best for you. Please know that you and your efforts are appreciated.
I know this video wasn’t a spare of the moment decision. I respect your decision. Please know I really enjoyed each and every one of them. You helped me in many different ways. I do hope we get to visit with you someday once we move to Ecuador. I hope we can keep in contact…best to you always! Thank you Don!
Perhaps a grumpy old man is grumpy wherever he lives. And his infection spreads to whomever he contacts. May the grace that God has given you pne day open your eyes to the beauty of His creation.
Today is a sad day, really enjoyed your videos. Thank you for your time and honesty.
Sir! Thank you for being you! I love your videos. You inspire me. I lost my father a couple of years ago and you’re a bit younger than he was but you’re the first older gentleman I’ve taken the time to listen to. Please don’t stop your videos. I love listening to you.
Good luck Don. I know it's not easy living long term in another country.
Hi Don, I can't tell you whether to stop or not. Just, I have enjoyed your candor. I can imagine traveling to Manta or different places around the world. Plan to for the next 5 years. I can not imagine any place in the world is perfect all the time. I am not happy with Tampa Bay or the USA in general, All The Time. I would encourage you not to carry this too heavily on your shoulders. Thank you for all you do. Best wishes for you. High regards, Rock
Hi Don! You’ve been a great provider of info and humor! I appreciate all your efforts over the years. I enjoyed meeting you a couple of years ago. If you are ever in Cuenca, look us up and we will buy you a meal. Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do. We wish you the best always!
Let’s vote:
👍 Don stays
👎 Don quits
stay Don!
The council has spoken. Don stays
Dan should stay!👍🏽
Stay
I would love for him to stay. One of my favorite channels of all subjects, truly. But I also respect that he needs to do what’s best for himself.
I have always appreciated your experience and candor, plus the honesty you bring to your videos. I certainly can relate to your perspectives and always value that you tell it like it is. I wish you the best friend.
hanks for your opinions and insights. I appreciated them. Best of luck to you in what ever and where ever you choose to operate.
Don, I’m really sorry you’re stopping the videos, but I appreciate all the information you’ve provided over the past few years. Thank you! I will be in touch by email when I finally get there. Hoping for November now!
Don I have appreciated your grumpiness,humor and most of all your honesty in sharing with us your adventures ups and downs.thank you again and am wishing you and colonel Parker all the best.
Great run, Don... but hope you will pop in randomly here and there. Rock on Don.
Would you ever want to discuss what it was like getting a driver's license? Really wondering what the steps were, how it went in Spanish, how you practiced, were there required lessons, etc. Maybe you made a video on this already? Anyways, it's so sad you're leaving YT (for the most part), but wishing you the best! Thank you 👍
I appreciate your videos, keep making them Don, don’t stop!
Thank you!
I've learned a lot from your channel over the years and appreciate all the effort that goes into your videos.
I appreciate the videos and info you provided over the years. All the best!
Don - thanks for your work - I really do appreciate it. Thanks again.
Hello my friend. I'm sorry to see you go, but definitely understand that you have to do what's best for YOU. You have accomplished a great mission here, and you have helped a lot of people both virtually and in reality and I am one of those people. You are a great guy Don, and I know your heart will continue to help in whatever way you can. Enjoy the chill and be blessed!
Thank you so much Terri. You'll hear from me again. Don't tell anyone but I'm going to start a audio podcast very soon.
@@DonShader Awesome! Let me know when and I will support you with my listernership.
Ok, just some notes: 1) Many thanks to you for the pertinent and valid and dam honest information you have provided, from Cuenca to Manta and beyond. EC is not perfect, but it is certainly ok. I've seen not all, but at least 95% of your vids, and I thank you for them, 2) I met you because I had seen your channel, and what I saw is a Usonian in Ecuador, representing the USA well, a person not being an ugly American, a decent person, 3) I'm happiest for you that you found someone to be with in EC, nothing better than that, 42) Personally I just sent, this morning, my residency application to another country........because my ins, prop tax, and HOA fees (largely more insurance) have risen 80% since 2020. That's 20% raises per year. Idk who gets raises of 20% per year, but it's def not me. You nailed it when you said EC is cheap. It is def affordable compared to the USA and a magnet for average people driven out of the USA by greedy corporate yacht monsters who have a licence to bill. I hate to leave the USA, but the USA is giving me no choice.
I really liked your "driving around videos". We got to see the place some more...and you were happy in those. Those were the good old days, I guess. We understand your predicament. Surprise us all with some good news sometime. Thanks for all of it. See ya 'round, gringo.
Thank you so much for all of your input
Don, Thanks for all of your videos. Appreciate all that you have done and welcome any new videos. If not enjoy your life in retirement and keep on keeping on!
Thanks Don. Appreciate the effort. Stay safe.
Hi Don, Ive been following you during your journey in Ecuador from the beginning. I have always found your videos inspirational. Sometimes we just need a break from the routine and that's understandable. Hopefully you'll return with updates, you'll be missed. Farewell my friend.
Don. Your content has always been fair and objective, which has made it so compelling!
You should feel free to do whatever you want in choosing a home or running a You tube channel.
Thank you so much for what you have shared over the past few years. We wish you the brightest future!
Thanks for your honesty.
This makes me sad. I have enjoyed your straightforward stories and quirky humor in these videos. I hope you reconsider sometime to come back and make more videos. Best of luck to you!
Best of luck Don you will be missed. You honestly have been one of my favorite people on TH-cam. Thanks for all of the information and entertainment.
I'll miss ya. People are fools. Take care.
Please don’t take down your channel! There is sooooo much great info.
Been in Fortalez Brazil for almost 20 years, amazing place to live.
Thanks for your insight! Be safe!
Thanks for your candor.
Sorry to see you go Don. I have followed your channel for some time now. Good luck to you ,wherever life takes you !
You've done a good job with your channel and you've put yourself our there. That's more than most people have the courage to do. I'm sorry to see you leave because of how you were treated by other people. I have enjoyed your channel and wish you all the very best.
So sorry Don thank you for all your offerings.
Nice work mate. You're a true gentleman. I've enjoyed all your hard work and I know exactly how hard it is. Seriously, good job. We'll all miss you mate. Enjoy whatever is next and all the best 🍻
Oh nooo. That's sad. I will miss U. I learned from u many things. I hope u where not threatened and feel u have to stop. I truly wish u all the best in whatever u do and wherever u will be. Take care u honest and funny human with a big Heart. Please "Bite Me" and I say that with peace and love🙏.
Thanks Don
Thank you. I hope you don't think you are not appreciated. You cannot please everyone. C'est la vie! Well, we'll be here if you change your mind. 🌞
My wife and I have been following you a long time. We considered retiring to Ecuador. But we found rural Arkansas is very affordable. We have been living in Arkansas for two years. And the flights back to Chicago are very cheap too. I made some spreadsheets comparing cost with Ecuador and it's breakeven. Plus we get to keep all our stuff.
Thanks for all your contributions, videos and insights. I totally understand what I think you might be going through. I concur that the best thing in Ecuador is that everything is cheaper; Then there are food items that are unique and tasty too; but there are also genuinely good people here and there as well. Be on the look out for my email... I'd like to talk to you for like you I am a resilient survivor too.
Don, I have watched several of your videos and I appreciate you and your perspective. Thank you for all you have shared.
Thank You Don for your videos. I really enjoy them, and I think all of us who commented did as well. Keep doing them! But if this is really it, then i understand. May God continue to bless you! Stay safe!
While I completely understand your reasons for no longer posting Ecuador related vids, I think it's a shame you have soured on posting videos altogether. More than the valuable information provided, it is your affable personality and humor that kept me coming back. Heck, you could start doing instructional cooking videos and I would set you to Notify. I just plain enjoy watching and listening to The Grumpy Old Gringo. If it is the end of the road, then I wish you as much happiness and joy that you have given us.
I have learned a lot from your content. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your time Ecuador. I hope you take a break and come back with more.😊😊😊😊
Thank you Don. This is the first time I have commented on in five years of watching TH-cam videos.
I have enjoyed and appreciated all your videos - and I have felt part of your life.
I am moving to Ecuador next month and your videos have been enormously helpful to me. I just enjoy your voice and genuine kindness, and your personality.
I hope you realise give much sunshine you have brought to our worlds.
I wish you great happiness in your future.
Susie
Don, I will really miss your videos. I really enjoyed your sense of humor, all the information, the details, and how you said it like it is, to the point. I'm sad over you being done, but I also understand and wish you happiness & no stress. Maybe you'll reconsider in the future........I hope. ❤❤❤❤
You need to worry about yourself. I like your videos by the way. Do you have another topic you want to start doing videos on? I would watch no matter what the content.
So would I. There are so many awesome places in South America to visit. I would follow right along with you.
Good idea
We are sad to see you go. Always looked forward to seeing you in our notifications and always appreciated your honesty. Hope to see you later if you do choose another adventure.
Maybe continue with coverage of everyday community events and photos of the places you visit? Not so much narrative about the ups and downs of living there, but like a travel diary.
Hi Don😊 i wish you happiness & success whatever you decide for yourself. I'm an expat living abroad. I always enjoyed your frankness to be honest. I think it's important to remember to be true to yourself and not worry so much about what others think, say or do. Whatever makes you happy and gives you peace, do that ❤
I have thoroughly enjoyed and received value to your videos!!! Yes, sometimes you are “grumpy” but you say that and that’s who you are! Your info is real and funny and I will miss you!!!😢❤
Well Don, the only thing for sure is change. Life is a journey and I'm glad you were kind enough to share your experiences. I will miss your content and screw em if they can't handle the truth. Stay safe, enjoy your life and maybe you will get bored and power back up! Best wishes to you Don. 😢
Really enjoyed your videos! Just enjoyed the simple life of what's going on in Ecuador.
Sorry to see you go! Thanks and good luck to you …
Best to you in the future, Don. With so many political problems here in South America right now, not to mention the U.S. and many other areas of the world, it does seem like making your videos would be almost impossible. Life here was so different 3 years ago or 8 years ago for us, but now, who the hell knows what will happen from day to day, month to month, not to mention the upcoming elections. And then when angry subscribers try to make you the scapegoat, well, you don't need that. I would not go back to the US ever, but neither would I want to give anyone else advice at this point in time. Hugs and stay safe.
Hello Don, I am sorry to see you go. Your videos were not only informative but also entertaining. I have enjoyed your views on living abroad and about life in general. I will most likely be emailing you but I have my fingers crossed that you are only taking a well-deserved break from the videos and will continue at a later date. Take care Don and good luck moving forward. You have a lot of fans.
Thanks for the videos Don. Sorry things got to the point where they interfered with your channel. I've found your vids informative and entertaining. Good luck to you and again, thanks.
Bro..I like your channel….I always go back to older videos for answers….good info…sorry to hear your woes….keep the faith and enjoy the view!
Don, it's GREAT to see you! We respect your decision, but we will miss your videos, candor, advice, and sense of humor. You have certainly made an impact and been a great influence on our plans to retire to Ecuador. You will be greatly missed and I hope that it is okay to keep in touch via email from time to time. - Tim and Tracie
Well, first of all, you do have thousands and thousands of viewers. 7.69K to be exact. :) Your content is great. However, you are even greater than that. You have lifted my spirits several times. I thank you, Don. ¡¡Cuídate!! 💙
Don your real and honest commentary from your point of view is going to be sorely missed.
Always enjoyed your videos Don. They were helpful to me in planning my exploratory trip to Ecuador. I hope that in the future you may find a reason to return to YT. I hope to see you return to Instagram as well. What ever you do I wish you happiness and success. Thanks so much.
Oh no sorry to see you take a break. It's been lovely to see your point of view.
Sending many regards from The Netherlands 🌷🇪🇺🧀🚴🏻♀️🇳🇱🚴🏼💐 Don. Thank for your videos and informations you’ve been posting. Best off luck 🍀 with your future plans /decisions.
Ciao Ciao
Hate to see you go, your videos are great info, wish you the best of luck!!
Your the best! Ive seen others. I always come back to yours! You are loved! Because of your realism and honesty and you speak from the heart! Another words you give of yourself! Viva Ecuador!
Thanks friend, for all your great information. I've learned a lot from you over the years. Your contrary view on things has kept my eyes open to many things about Ecuador. I hope you can give us some "final chapter" videos once you know how things are gonna be for you in the future.
Thank you, Don, for your dedication through the years in helping and educating complete strangers from around the world. I appreciate your many dedicated efforts and refreshing honesty. (You could never be a U.S. journalist or politician!!) Best wishes to you in your future endeavors. Head held high, sir!
Don, very sorry if you leave. One of the best and most honest and real reports from anywhere. so upfront and from the heart. I always looked forward to them! Thank you for your honesty. You are appreciated! Whatever you decide I support you. Thank you!,,
Well Don, I for one have enjoyed your commentary. Before and after I moved to Manta.So excited to have met you in person, out and about here. ENJOY your free time
Don, So sorry that people are such that you feel you need to go. Personally I've always enjoyed your content and humor and the way you tell it like it is. I'm not really considering moving to Ecuador but my wife and I did retire and traveled for about 2 years and lived in Colombia. We did finally decide to come back to the USA. We also looked into Ecuador which is where I found your channel. I watched it because of you and your sense of humor and topics. If I ever did decide to move to Ecuador I thought you gave a lot of good information. Some people are just idiots. As the saying goes, "You can't fix stupid." Enjoy your time off and know that so many people enjoyed your content and that you will be missed. Hope after some time you will come back and don't give a dam about what people say.
Going to miss your videos. I learned a lot from them. Hoping that maybe after a break you'll change your mind and create another video or two. Glad you're keeping the channel up. Take care and thanks for the entertainment.
I have enjoyed your videos, I looked forward to them every week. I am going to Ecuador next week, I will be there for almost 2 months. It is an exploratory trip. I will see locations from the beachs to the mountains. Best of luck to you. I hope to see more videos from you they are really enjoyable. If not bite me!
You will be missed ! And I completely understand. We all have hard choices, and they are ours alone.
I think you’re right… 👍🏻
I'm so sorry to see you go, Don. Since joining you channel, I have thoroughly enjoyed the content that you shared as well as your honesty. I especially enjoyed your interviews with GM Ace. I finally arrived here in Cuenca 3 months ago and your channel has helped shape some of my decisions (ex. not to own a car due to the cloned tag issue). Anyway, best of luck to you and Stella. Just know that you have an audience that loves you should be ever decide to return to TH-cam.
Thanks for your honest opinions, and views of Ecuador.