Hi guy.....listen to this guy ....I live in Ecuador Im Ecuadorian.....all he says is absolutely accurate....also dont trust to much in police members specially in Guayaquil or thought the whole cost line most of them send to rob u ....sad but true...some security guards could do the same ....
Words of wisdom Don, I have lived here for 10 years and have learned a few lessons the hard way, nothing major but you as a gringo stand out and you are always being watched.
I use a neck strap connected to my phone that I carry in my shirt pocket. Saved me many times. I have a belt loop and chain on my wallet. Do not pay attention to anyone saying there is a problem with your car.
Thank you, Don. Most of this is just common sense, but sometimes we get caught up and comfortable in our daily lives and forget to be cautious. Take care of yourself, too!
Have been enjoying your channel, Don! We are traveling to Ecuador July 2023. Flying into Guayaquil and staying 1 night on the way to Manta. Do you have any recommendations for where to stay that 1 night for 3 people?
This was a great video and served as a great reminder for me. Throughout my travels, I find it’s easy to relax and not always be alert to those around me. I will be more vigilant going forward! Btw, Mr. Parker had your back in this video. Great watchdog!
Good points Don. When I go to an ATM, I look all around before approaching the machine. Stay aware of those around you. When walking on the street, I keep my wallet in one front pocket and phone in the other. If the street is crowded, I have my hands in my pocket holding both. I never put valuables in my back pack. Just sweater, water, etc.
ATM tip: if your card doesn't insert smoothly into the machine, use another one. Thieves will insert a device that will lock the card once inserted, then they retrieve it when u go away. Also refuse any help from people around you.
Awesome list, Don! The things that you listed apply to any country/city in the world. (including the U.S.) - Thank you. - First spanish words to learn -> NO! Lo siento - and like you said - walk away fast.
There are certainly dangerous cities in the US but in general Anytown,USA is 100 times safer than any so.american city, especially big cities. I lived in So America many years so I know what I'm talking about
Greetings: great video. Nearly all your security points apply to Las Vegas or any city in the U.S. I like to add one item that has saved me. Add alerts to your credit and debit cards. Any charge in excess of a dollar should trigger an email alert. This allows you to check your account and call your bank or credit card company if you don't recognize the charge.
I carry a copy of my passport in any foreign country. Loss of your actual passport can ruin your vacation. I never carry a purse. Use front or chest pockets for cash.
I think one point Don makes is that while no country is without crime, there are variations as we go from one society to another, and so he appears to have tailored his safety tips and recommendations for Ecuador specifically.
Hey Don! Suggestion: If you spray pepper spray with your index finger (instead of your thumb) you reduce the chances of your other fingers getting in the way and deflecting pepper spray back to yourself.
Hi Don, I am going to visit Ecuador in a few weeks. First time in Latin America for my daughter and me. Should I be looking over my shoulder at all times? God bless.
That's a very difficult question to answer. It depends on where you are, really. As a general rule, I say no but just be aware of your surroundings and use common sense wherever you are.
Great video! This is common sense wherever you are. I don't wear flashy jewelry here in TX anymore. Just my wedding band. People here have been followed from banks and robbed (usually when they leave their withdrawn cash in the car) in a practice that's called "jugging." You've got to be careful wherever you go. We older folks must be extra careful, as most times we are an easy target that won't / can't fight back.
I was a pizza delivery driver for several years in university in the very dangerous early 90’s. You always split your cash. Some in one pocket, some in the other. The wife will carry some “back up” cash in her purse. I will be the only one to take out money to pay for anything, and the small bills are on the outside of the folded money. No wallet ever. Just money in each pocket. That said, keep your head on a swivel. If you look aware, you’re not a target. Make eye contact and be active with people. Say hello, or good afternoon as is customary in most areas. If you don’t look like a target, you won’t be one.
@@DonShader, thanks Don. I’ve worked in more dangerous areas than I care to remember. Had guns pointed at me in anger a couple of times, knives, dogs, etc. I came out ok each time. Listen to the little voice in your head that warns you. It’s probably right. You don’t have to be scared, but you also shouldn’t be stupid. I’ll be in Guayaquil tomorrow, a little time spent in Cuenca, then back to Guayaquil. I love it there.
Those are great tips Don, reminders are always helpful. Looking forward to the upcoming vids, especially the cooking class. The ceviche in the Sierra is different than in the coast, can't wait to see which you'll be making.
Thanks so much Don.. This could be said about all European cities as well.. Some worse than others.. What happened to your break from TH-cam - did you miss us all 😊 Take care - thanks again and, have a great week!!
Hello Don! This is probably off the subject of security, but I think a subject that hadn’t been mentioned and I found frustrating not knowing! It’s called JEP Token. A subject maybe you can elaborate on. As an expat, something as important as JEP Token should be discussed! Thanks Don!
Hello don! JEP Token is a security code generator that allows you to access your JEP account t out side of Ecuador. I have a CLARO phone but no international features. As you know to Access your JEP account a security code is generated and sent to your Ecuadorian phone number. JEP offers this security feature so you can access your account outside ecuador, for the expats who are not there full time. Javier, your go to JEP account rep was very helpful in helping me set up mine, so account access is possible outside ecuador.
@@rono1338 I have a Jep account and don't use a token like you are talking about, When I access my account online, I recieve a text message on my phone with the 6-digit code that I then enter into the web interface. I have a friend that recently opened a Jep account and she has a JEP token app on her phone that generates the token for her. Is that what you think I should do a video on?
Yes, when I opened my JEP account , I wasn’t aware of this app. I am sure glad you had Javier’s info on your TH-cam video about CD’s ! With out the JEP Token you can not access your account Outside of ecuador, unless ur ecuador phone number has international capability. Javier was literally a life saver!
Don, it seems like the cons far outweigh the pros of living in Manta. Have you considered an "exploratory" trip to Daytona Beach FL for example? You can rent 1 bedroom condos on or near the beach for around $1,100 + sign up with one of the many Medicare HMO plans available that cover 100% of the cost for physician visits/surgeries.
Hi Don, we're going back through some of the videos on your channel. They age very well. When you have a moment, would you please consider adding Spanish subtitles to this video? Thanks for your consideration. I'm Like # 317.
Ecuadorians also get robbed, my friend had her gold ear rings pulled off, in Guayaquil. It's mainly in the cities, like anywhere I suppose. I've had more problems in Spain, Barcelona, lots of tourists.
By the way, since the middle of this summer it’s now against the law in Ecuador for two guys to ride together on a motorcycle (it’s still OK for a guy and his wife). Because of crime.
@@DonShader It depends on the situation. I have a young friend in Guayaquil with a motorcycle, and he’s super sensitive to these changes in the law. He sees cops pulling people over for this sort of thing all the time, and being Venezuelan he really doesn’t want to have anything to do the police.
Ecuador is the sixth safest country in South America. I think some of your advice is a bit too much, like carrying your bagpack on your chest. Maybe in Quito, but certainly not necessary in Cuenca.
How very cool. I'm looking forward to the cooking ceviche class. Also, how is that not common sense? I'm always alert and aware of surroundings being flashy in downtown Austin Texas can get you followed and robbed, literally happens every week and during major events here.
Great video. Sounds exactly like my day to day life back in Lima Peru. Bottomliine: when u are out in the street, trust no one. Also try not to look too "gringo". Gringo means money plain and simple.
Good PSA (not prostate specific antigen 🤣) - there's a little more content on your channel regarding hazards lately. Hoping it's not because of a bad personal experience.
I have seen information that gangs are a problem in some parts of Ecuador. I believe that there was a state of emergency declared in parts of the country becasue of gang activity. Some of the other ex-pat people on U-tube appear to down play the crime risks, not that we do not have them in the USA.
And I do too. Percentage wise, crime is on the increase but you still can't compare it to North America. I still feel safer here. I'm more worried about earthquakes than I am being a victim of a crime. I can use common sense as a first line of defense against crime but I can't do squat about these damned earthquakes.
Robert, it's possible that some expats in Ecuador downplay crime, but the ones I watch most are only trying to put the level of crime in its proper perspective and to provide a balance to some of the sensationalized reports we may hear in the news media. In my opinion, Don falls in this latter category, and a few other TH-camrs do as well. To be sure, the more severe crimes will seize the headlines; but it behooves us to understand that it tends to be concentrated in certain pockets in Ecuador and that even as no one will ever be completely exempt as a potential victim, crime is not spread evenly in all provinces of the country.
Kurt, this makes a good sound bite, but I don't hear calls for anyone to live their life in fear. It's not unreasonable for people to have some concerns about their safety and for them to take practical measures to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime. Besides which - it's irrational fear which is the enemy. (Not all fears are irrational.)
@@DonShader Being relaxed and calm are not only abilities of our mind but also being ready to fight! Again not having fear is the first and over most condition of mind!
Those are good comments, I have traveled a lot those are good safety rules for anywhere even here state side . But I seem to feel you are very biased toward Venezuela, criminals and bad people come from everywhere.
Hardly! Check out Zillow Daytona Beach condos for rent to fact check. All of my elderly family members use Medicare HMO's such as Healthnet. As a collective group in their 70's-90's they've never paid out of pocket for in hospital surgeries etc. Don STOP trying to convince yourself that you've made the right move. Hubby and I have been following your channel since you moved to Manta. You look unhappy and stressed out.
Martin, what am I missing here? "Hardly"? Please explain. Is your comment in response to my Security and safety in Ecuador video? Or what are you talking about?
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 88 | คู่เอก "ป้อมเพชร vs อัสลามจอน"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1ZqTVVbMgbo/mqdefault.jpg)
Hi guy.....listen to this guy ....I live in Ecuador Im Ecuadorian.....all he says is absolutely accurate....also dont trust to much in police members specially in Guayaquil or thought the whole cost line most of them send to rob u ....sad but true...some security guards could do the same ....
Words of wisdom Don, I have lived here for 10 years and have learned a few lessons the hard way, nothing major but you as a gringo stand out and you are always being watched.
I use a neck strap connected to my phone that I carry in my shirt pocket. Saved me many times.
I have a belt loop and chain on my wallet.
Do not pay attention to anyone saying there is a problem with your car.
Thanks Don we all need to hear this so we can stay safe.
Thank you, Don. Most of this is just common sense, but sometimes we get caught up and comfortable in our daily lives and forget to be cautious. Take care of yourself, too!
You are a good soul, Don.
Thank you.
Have been enjoying your channel, Don! We are traveling to Ecuador July 2023. Flying into Guayaquil and staying 1 night on the way to Manta. Do you have any recommendations for where to stay that 1 night for 3 people?
I would either get a AirBnB, or you can probably get a good rate at the Holiday Inn Airport.
@@DonShader Thanks so much!
This was a great video and served as a great reminder for me. Throughout my travels, I find it’s easy to relax and not always be alert to those around me. I will be more vigilant going forward! Btw, Mr. Parker had your back in this video. Great watchdog!
Yep, he's always trying to steal the show.
Always appreciate your valuable content, Don.
Don, this is an excellent video!!! THANK YOU for your no nonsense approach!
David,
I've removed you from this channel. Go somewhere else to troll.
Thanks Don.
Thank god you came back early. We’ve missed you!
Good points Don. When I go to an ATM, I look all around before approaching the machine. Stay aware of those around you. When walking on the street, I keep my wallet in one front pocket and phone in the other. If the street is crowded, I have my hands in my pocket holding both. I never put valuables in my back pack. Just sweater, water, etc.
You're a smart man Tom.
Thanks for your feedback.
-ds
ATM tip: if your card doesn't insert smoothly into the machine, use another one. Thieves will insert a device that will lock the card once inserted, then they retrieve it when u go away. Also refuse any help from people around you.
Awesome list, Don! The things that you listed apply to any country/city in the world. (including the U.S.) - Thank you. -
First spanish words to learn -> NO! Lo siento - and like you said - walk away fast.
Well said!
There are certainly dangerous cities in the US but in general Anytown,USA is 100 times safer than any so.american city, especially big cities. I lived in So America many years so I know what I'm talking about
Greetings: great video. Nearly all your security points apply to Las Vegas or any city in the U.S. I like to add one item that has saved me. Add alerts to your credit and debit cards. Any charge in excess of a dollar should trigger an email alert. This allows you to check your account and call your bank or credit card company if you don't recognize the charge.
That's good advice. Thanks.
And the 5K Subscribers milestone is coming to you SOON, Don!
You Deserve it, too!
Your channel is a wonderful resource! Thank you!
Thanks again!
Good Tips for anyone, everywhere. Thank You for having us as pert of your family. It is a pleasure.
I carry a copy of my passport in any foreign country. Loss of your actual passport can ruin your vacation. I never carry a purse. Use front or chest pockets for cash.
Thanks for the smart tips.
You bet!
Good video Don. Seems like it could be applicable anywhere, not just EC.
I think one point Don makes is that while no country is without crime, there are variations as we go from one society to another, and so he appears to have tailored his safety tips and recommendations for Ecuador specifically.
That is true, and a lot of this is based on some experiences I've encountered myself.
Great information...very helpful..stay happy and healthy...and (safe)
Thank you! You too!
Thanks Don, good advice and some things I for sure wouldn't have thought about.
Glad to help
Most will feel this is all common sense, but we all need to be reminded from time-to-time. Especially me.
Hey Don! Suggestion: If you spray pepper spray with your index finger (instead of your thumb) you reduce the chances of your other fingers getting in the way and deflecting pepper spray back to yourself.
Don! It's GREAT to see you! Serious, but important video with some good, practical advice. Always looking out for your viewers. Thank you!
I appreciate that!
Hi Don, I am going to visit Ecuador in a few weeks. First time in Latin America for my daughter and me. Should I be looking over my shoulder at all times? God bless.
That's a very difficult question to answer. It depends on where you are, really. As a general rule, I say no but just be aware of your surroundings and use common sense wherever you are.
Don, just take a break when you need to. We will be here. Rakacheeratcha forever
Thanks a heap for your advise ,people need to be alert...at all times.
Personal security is very important, especially for foreigners in any society.
Appreciate all you do Don. Keep up the fine work
Much appreciated
Great video! This is common sense wherever you are. I don't wear flashy jewelry here in TX anymore. Just my wedding band. People here have been followed from banks and robbed (usually when they leave their withdrawn cash in the car) in a practice that's called "jugging." You've got to be careful wherever you go. We older folks must be extra careful, as most times we are an easy target that won't / can't fight back.
I was a pizza delivery driver for several years in university in the very dangerous early 90’s. You always split your cash. Some in one pocket, some in the other. The wife will carry some “back up” cash in her purse. I will be the only one to take out money to pay for anything, and the small bills are on the outside of the folded money. No wallet ever. Just money in each pocket.
That said, keep your head on a swivel. If you look aware, you’re not a target. Make eye contact and be active with people. Say hello, or good afternoon as is customary in most areas. If you don’t look like a target, you won’t be one.
That's a great answer Andrew. I'm going to use that in response to some others.
-ds
@@DonShader, thanks Don. I’ve worked in more dangerous areas than I care to remember. Had guns pointed at me in anger a couple of times, knives, dogs, etc. I came out ok each time. Listen to the little voice in your head that warns you. It’s probably right. You don’t have to be scared, but you also shouldn’t be stupid. I’ll be in Guayaquil tomorrow, a little time spent in Cuenca, then back to Guayaquil. I love it there.
Those are good tips for anywhere. We learned those living in Chicago. Except for the girl in the bar. I think she really likes me 😀
Those are great tips Don, reminders are always helpful. Looking forward to the upcoming vids, especially the cooking class. The ceviche in the Sierra is different than in the coast, can't wait to see which you'll be making.
Great tips Don. My wife just emailed you regarding cartels activity in manta. Looking forward to your responses. Ricardo.
Thanks so much Don..
This could be said about all European cities as well.. Some worse than others..
What happened to your break from TH-cam - did you miss us all 😊
Take care - thanks again and, have a great week!!
Yes, I just couldn't break away. I had a meeting with someone and got some ideas for additional content. So here I am.
@@DonShader Happy you decided to stay dear Don... Take care 😊
Excellent video about safety.
Thanks Don!
We appreciate your continuing with the helpful videos with useful information.
Thanks so much.
Hello Don! This is probably off the subject of security, but I think a subject that hadn’t been mentioned and I found frustrating not knowing! It’s called JEP Token. A subject maybe you can elaborate on. As an expat, something as important as JEP Token should be discussed! Thanks Don!
I don't even know what JEP Token is. Can you please elaborate?
Hello don! JEP Token is a security code generator that allows you to access your JEP account t out side of Ecuador. I have a CLARO phone but no international features. As you know to Access your JEP account a security code is generated and sent to your Ecuadorian phone number. JEP offers this security feature so you can access your account outside ecuador, for the expats who are not there full time. Javier, your go to JEP account rep was very helpful in helping me set up mine, so account access is possible outside ecuador.
@@rono1338 I have a Jep account and don't use a token like you are talking about, When I access my account online, I recieve a text message on my phone with the 6-digit code that I then enter into the web interface.
I have a friend that recently opened a Jep account and she has a JEP token app on her phone that generates the token for her. Is that what you think I should do a video on?
Yes, when I opened my JEP account , I wasn’t aware of this app. I am sure glad you had Javier’s info on your TH-cam video about CD’s ! With out the JEP Token you can not access your account Outside of ecuador, unless ur ecuador phone number has international capability. Javier was literally a life saver!
@@rono1338 Glad to hear. Thanks so much.
Don, it seems like the cons far outweigh the pros of living in Manta. Have you considered an "exploratory" trip to Daytona Beach FL for example? You can rent 1 bedroom condos on or near the beach for around $1,100 + sign up with one of the many Medicare HMO plans available that cover 100% of the cost for physician visits/surgeries.
Martin, are you on drugs?
Hi Don, we're going back through some of the videos on your channel. They age very well. When you have a moment, would you please consider adding Spanish subtitles to this video?
Thanks for your consideration. I'm Like # 317.
Ecuadorians also get robbed, my friend had her gold ear rings pulled off, in Guayaquil. It's mainly in the cities, like anywhere I suppose. I've had more problems in Spain, Barcelona, lots of tourists.
By the way, since the middle of this summer it’s now against the law in Ecuador for two guys to ride together on a motorcycle (it’s still OK for a guy and his wife). Because of crime.
Yes, this is true but I still see it today. People around here don't really pay a lot of attention to minor details like changes in the law.
@@DonShader It depends on the situation. I have a young friend in Guayaquil with a motorcycle, and he’s super sensitive to these changes in the law. He sees cops pulling people over for this sort of thing all the time, and being Venezuelan he really doesn’t want to have anything to do the police.
Ecuador is the sixth safest country in South America. I think some of your advice is a bit too much, like carrying your bagpack on your chest. Maybe in Quito, but certainly not necessary in Cuenca.
Great video! Keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do!
I’m in a taxi and in an accident. Get out and get in another taxi.
Hi!!! Blessings and lovely weekend!! 🤗🙏💝
Here in Cuenca 👋
How very cool. I'm looking forward to the cooking ceviche class.
Also, how is that not common sense? I'm always alert and aware of surroundings being flashy in downtown Austin Texas can get you followed and robbed, literally happens every week and during major events here.
It saddens me to hear that. Since I grew up in Austin, I remember when it was probably one of the safest places to live in the US.
Great video. Sounds exactly like my day to day life back in Lima Peru. Bottomliine: when u are out in the street, trust no one. Also try not to look too "gringo". Gringo means money plain and simple.
So true!
hey my friend i will be visiting quito is it true i need a yellow fever shot
Not that I know of. But you better check with your doctor. I was told I would need shots if I was going to the Amazon but not anywhere else.
I have known women visiting in Peru that were drugged and sexually assaulted in high end restaurants and bars in Lima.
Oh! Sounds just like the US.
Lo siento.
Good PSA (not prostate specific antigen 🤣) - there's a little more content on your channel regarding hazards lately. Hoping it's not because of a bad personal experience.
No, just trying to share information.
this honestly seems like living in a prison or jail. sad to say, this just isn't a way to live for anyone.
Your friend should be thankful that all he lost was 'only' money and electronics, not his kidney(s).
I have seen information that gangs are a problem in some parts of Ecuador. I believe that there was a state of emergency declared in parts of the country becasue of gang activity. Some of the other ex-pat people on U-tube appear to down play the crime risks, not that we do not have them in the USA.
And I do too. Percentage wise, crime is on the increase but you still can't compare it to North America. I still feel safer here. I'm more worried about earthquakes than I am being a victim of a crime. I can use common sense as a first line of defense against crime but I can't do squat about these damned earthquakes.
Robert, it's possible that some expats in Ecuador downplay crime, but the ones I watch most are only trying to put the level of crime in its proper perspective and to provide a balance to some of the sensationalized reports we may hear in the news media. In my opinion, Don falls in this latter category, and a few other TH-camrs do as well.
To be sure, the more severe crimes will seize the headlines; but it behooves us to understand that it tends to be concentrated in certain pockets in Ecuador and that even as no one will ever be completely exempt as a potential victim, crime is not spread evenly in all provinces of the country.
@@lvovodessa What are the units for these numbers? Per 100,000 residents?
Fear is the enemy! Get rid of it and you can see how calm is reality! Enjoy being relax and flexible in mind!
Tell that to a type A personality and let me know how it works out for ya.
Kurt, this makes a good sound bite, but I don't hear calls for anyone to live their life in fear. It's not unreasonable for people to have some concerns about their safety and for them to take practical measures to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime. Besides which - it's irrational fear which is the enemy. (Not all fears are irrational.)
@@DonShader Being relaxed and calm are not only abilities of our mind but also being ready to fight! Again not having fear is the first and over most condition of mind!
Doesn't sound like a good place to live to me
Then by all means, don't come here. King Jesus?
Those are good comments, I have traveled a lot those are good safety rules for anywhere even here state side . But I seem to feel you are very biased toward Venezuela, criminals and bad people come from everywhere.
It is.
Don, I hope you aren't pushing your too hard. Love your videos...but please take time for yourself! Us.
Don't wear your jewelry and don't open carry your gun.
Carry a gun go directly to jail
Hardly! Check out Zillow Daytona Beach condos for rent to fact check. All of my elderly family members use Medicare HMO's such as Healthnet. As a collective group in their 70's-90's they've never paid out of pocket for in hospital surgeries etc. Don STOP trying to convince yourself that you've made the right move. Hubby and I have been following your channel since you moved to Manta. You look unhappy and stressed out.
Martin, what am I missing here? "Hardly"?
Please explain. Is your comment in response to my Security and safety in Ecuador video? Or what are you talking about?