It's a beautiful thing to hear and see that there are expats, who not only understand the culture clash and the importance of our impact, but are also willing to defend what the indigenous people of Ecuador have established. We must be mindful, considerate, and conscientious of our footprints on a land that isn't native to US. As an Ecuadorian citizen who's lived abroad for many years, it is very refreshing to see an appreciation for this country where the impact from those that don't is becoming more evident. Thank you Don. From a fellow Arizonian. 🤝
I was looking to say something similar in regards to entitled expats but I can say it no better than what you did flor. You would have to be a complete ass to go to someone else's home and act like they should cater to you. Thank these people for inviting you.
Really like your no BS videos Don. Good job!. I'm retiring at the end of the year and I'm interested in Ecuador. Now I just need to convince my lovely wife.
Don, thanks for this video and as usual you always had something in store for us. Ecuador is a great country with great people, culture arts , food and everything there is. Probably I can add two more: Ecuador is definitely among the few countries Monsanto hates most and (2) it is the only country that Mother Nature do have some constitutional right. In short, nature co-exist and enjoys similar privileges as humans do.
You are so right in all regards. If I sat and thought hard enough, I bet I could come up with another ten great reasons for being here. Thanks so much for your valuable feedback.
Even if Monsanto and bioengineered food/veggies are not allowed to be produced in Ecuador, i had heard from others that some Ecuadorian farmers do use some pesticides on their crops or vegetables, while others don't. Is this true?
Hello Don, my wife was born in Ecuador and came to the US when she was 6 years old. I had the opportunity to visit Ecuador in 2017 and fell in love with it. She retired as a teacher and I'm semi-retired (mid 50's). I have been trying to get her to live in Ecuador during our Winters. I think it just might happen (fingers crossed), we both speak Spanish (her more) and she she has family here. We can easily live in luxury there.
My Brother in Law left Atlanta for Ecuador fifteen or so years ago and has never set foot back in the US. It's an awesome place and from where I stand it's looking better by the day.
We retired 4 months ago and we are traveling slowly between Mexico and Argentina, in search of our favorite retirement city. We are currently in my wife’s home country of Nicaragua, in the mountains of Matagalpa. We will be here until February then off to our next countries which are Guatemala and then Mexico ( 6 months each ). But after that we are heading to South America- we are cool weather lovers ! Manizales, Colombia Cuenca, Ecuador Arequipa, Peru Buenas Aires, Argentina Ecuador is very high on our list ! It checks many boxes. Safe, cool weather, good healthcare, we speak Spanish, low cost of living, and walkable. And I believe cities like Cuenca are less expensive than coastal cities, right ? Great video !
Thank you so much for your words about our country. You and your family and every good people from USA and others countries are welcome to Ecuador. Enjoy it. Best Regards.
Great video Don. I am from Ecuador but I've lived in AZ for 20 years, I laughed out loud when you said " You try not to get microwaved outside in AZ" It's so true! I'm glad you are happy in Ecuador!
I’m Ecuadorian I just came back from Ecuador Teo weeks ago can’t wait to go back I’m originally from Cuenca. I own a house in the Remigio area I’ve been living in the states for 25 years I, love it here too. In a couple of year I’m moving back to Cuenca exactly for those reasons that you just mentioned here in your show I’m happy for you
Safe country, cheap to live, perfect weather. That was my Google search criteria and Ecuador was number one. Lived there from 2013 to 2016. Would like to go back after retirement later this year.
Hi Don! Another great and interesting (plus humorous comments) video. Really appreciate your honesty and great insightful descriptions of the Ecuadorean people. Their happiness and love of their daily lives is in stark contrast to a large majority of the U.S. population. I look forward to my exploratory visit to Ecuador in 2022 and all the country has to offer. I am subscribed to your channel and always eagerly await a new video and your personal perspective of life there. Stay safe and healthy(could be the beer and wine that is definitely helping; ha ha)! Joyce
Greetings from Bermuda Don! New sub here ! I am working in Bermuda as Expat! I am looking to purchase a home there!Thank you for all the advice!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾👍🏾😊
Hello Don. I lived in Cotacachi for a few years and moved on to Colombia. I've been struggling with residencia here since coming here. Being canadian does complicste things. The canadian system is burdeles with bureaucracy. Everything in trrms of documentación takes a llt of time. This rant could continue but I shall say I am in my final effort at residency and if it does not happen, I Will return to ecuador. Good work on your blog. Rafa
You sir, are an Ecuadorian! And that’s a compliment, I took my California wife to visit my home country for the first time in 2016. And she want’s to know when we are moving there for good?
Hey Don, “Longtime watcher (4 mos) new subscriber, first time commenter” Great video, good information, as always, love the perspective you give on the country. So, this is not criticism but an observation on my part. From everything I’ve been able to glean about healthcare in Ecuador (and other countries not spelled US) both from your videos and those of others the healthcare that is provided is excellent and AFFORDABLE, not cheap. Cheap, for most people, is indicative of lesser quality ~ poorly made ~ or, second rate. The healthcare experience that you have described is none of that. You have received quality care, provided in a manner most Americans are unfamiliar with (MD’s making “house calls,” seeing you at your convenience on a WEEKEND, come on that’s UN-American) but more importantly it was AFFORDABLE! And certainly not cheap. I think, from a standpoint of comparison, that affordable is preferable to cheap. Keep up the great work and I look forward to more of your interesting posts and perspectives. Can’t wait to join you in your new country!
Don has used the word "cheap" for emphasis. However, I agree with Ole. The word that I was thinking was "inexpensive." Originally from Oklahoma, I live in Ecuador and am married to an Ecuadorian. I am on his social security and therefore, I do not pay one red cent for health care. NONE. And my care has been equal to or better than in the United States. By the way, when I say "health care," it includes my prescription medications. I pay nothing. No copays. Previous illnesses are covered. No paperwork. There are insurance companies but, for sure, I don't need them! So again, I do NOTHING but get my excellent health care. I almost had a heart attack from shock when a doctor came to our home on a Sunday morning. Can you believe this? Well, it's true! One last thing that I think is important concerning health care in Ecuador. If you need a refill of a medication, you do NOT need to go back to the doctor for another piece of paper that says medication refill. I merely take my pill bottles to a pharmacy and it's in Ecuadorian law that a pharmacist refills my medication. Amazing!
Hubby & I continue to enjoy watching your videos! Your factual and honest opinions keep us coming back. I'm very wary of anyone who monetizes their TH-cam channel as their primary source of income. First red flag is when they smile their way through the entire video pretending everything is perfect. Bravo Don and may I say you appear more confident and content!
Thank you so much California Girl. You're very kind. I have no intention of monetizing this channel. It's not worth the effort it takes. If I was at that level, I would be no different than some other TH-camrs I know that won't give you the time of day. That's just not my character.
I really have to stop watching these videos because they make me want to pick up and move to Ecuador. It sounds like heaven! By the way, this is the first video of yours I have seen. I went back to watch your earlier videos and I think you lost weight!
Thanks, My weight fluctuates so much. I want to remove my most recent vid (but I won't) because I look so fat but really, it's just the way I'm sitting. It's very easy to lose weight here because of the lack of junk food, lots of walking and just clean living. I don't have a scale so I can't confirm nor deny if I've lost any. But thanks for noticing though. -ds
Our reason for wanting to leave Texas.Not many kind people here.My sons inlaws are from Mexico.That latin kindness is why I think they are the kindest people I know.So with how you explained how the Ecuadorians are so kind I think Ecuador is our place to retire.The stess here in Texas is nerve wracking.The mass shootings in the US is insane. I am grateful for all of your information and hope to have a coffee with you one day.Thank you again and enjoy you new retirements
Thanks for the video, Don, I really appreciate your insight as to why you chose Ecuador. My wife and I are doing research into Ecuador and have been really amazed so far. We are in the USA and are so tired of the way of life here and want a much slower pace into our retirement. I have been looking at properties in Manta, so might be taking a trip there soon as well as Cotacachi. Take care :).
Dearest Don, I have narrowed my selection down to Portugal and Ecuador . I would live happily in Cuenca. I don’t know deciding which language to master. You make Ecuador seem easy (I lived in NYC for 25 years, I know all about the need for eyes in the back of your head) and I have continued moving west currently living in Mesa!! I do not like the heat!! You don’t understand the heat until you’re in 117 degrees. I am looking at the perks an older person would get. I am 62, there are allot more in Ecuador so far that I can see. I appreciate your honesty and heartfelt information. I live at Gilbert/university in Mesa. Thanks for everything Don. Catherine from Mesa, Arizona
Thank you Catherine. I live in Fountain of the Sun in Mesa since 2010 and in spite of the hot summers, I loved the winters there better. I miss living there and for some reason, I just thought about how much I miss eating BBQ at Rudy's in Gilbert.
Great video ! Cost of living and weather and healthcare are our main reasons to explore Ecuador as a retirement spot. We are starting in Mexico with our very old senior dogs but when they are gone we start heading south…
Love your videos. This makes me so homesick. I grew up in Venezuela but it is no longer a functioning country. Ecuador looks so inviting for my retirement.
Great video! Very informative. I'm planning to live (come back) to Ecuador after I retire, in about 25 years from now. Life is full of happiness in Ecuador
Hey Don. My wife and I have spent time in Quito and Cuenca and we agree with everything you say. Hope to have a coffee with you one day. Take it easy from Canada.
Those $1 coins hold up better than bills. The people won't accept torn or damage bills; so only bring bills in good condition. However many locals do consider $4 and $2 bills to be lucky. KFC is everywhere but different. Great video keep up the great work!
Amazing video! Suscribed. The passion and respect you show through your words while referring to local ecuadorian people is the way it always should be. Congrats. BTW I'm argentinian and have been several times to the USA. I deeply understand every single word you said about the differences between "here and there". I do congratulate you for being courageous enough to take the probably kost important step of your life by moving to Ecuador. Best wishes. Diego.
Hello Don, I'm a new subscriber. I thoroughly enjoyed your video on your 10 reasons for moving to Ecuador. The main reason I'm posting is that it is so wonderful to see/listen to a mature presence describing their live in Ecuador. My partner and I are planning travel in 2023 to Ecuador to consider as a place of retirement. Thank you for the encouraging words and for celebrating the Ecuadorian people and their lives. I'll make sure and review your other postings to keep up before our travel there. Norman and Robert
Don, that’s sure sounds a brutally honest sketch of all things beautiful to experience for anyone wanting a good living there, yeah life can be simple as that as Ecuadorians can show it, yes some expats can be so sophisticated and smug and fail to appreciate. Great points, nice intro 😀
Hi Don... Please do a video on the CD's as you mentioned Also I have been here in Manta all month and I leave on Monday Oct 25th. I would love to buy you a meal between now and then. I'm actually staying at the Ibiza Thank you Steve
Hi Steve, I eat breakfast at Dulce and Cremoso in the mall every morning at 9:00AM. I'm always sitting afainst the far way with a few other folks. Please come and join us at your convenience. It would be my pleasure to meet you. Don
don-just found ypur channel.subbed and rang bell.going through the tragedy of watching my sweet wife die from lung cancer.no one reason to stay here and will be selling everything by the end of the year.medical cost have robbed me .retired to take care of her.looking very hard at ecuador.loved your vid.honest,straight up, and great humor.will be binge watching your chanel.lwill definitely stop by manta and join you for breakfast.new stars are the best.
Great Don, we almost moved to ECUADOR: Villamil, but we wanted to be closer to the US so we settle for the closest thing to the States (we even consider CUBA, but the Real Estate ocean front is too much dinero $) Don you are witty and interesting to watch and your life experience is priceless, are you doing any stock market or how does a brokerage work?, I love the part you talk about food, God bless you in your pH (pursuit of happiness)!
I played around with the stock market and really developed a good understanding of how to earn money in the market and the one thing I learned the most is that to really be successful, you have to think and invest long term, which requires time. Time that I don't have, not to mention money. Thanks for your feedback.
Nice straightforward video. Our plan is to move to Cotacachi in 2 years. We leave for Cotacachi in March to complete the purchase of some rental property! We would move now but we both take care of our moms
I am retiring to Quito next year and want to thank you for all the wonderful advice and information. I am lucky in that I have lived in many countries in my life with my job including Brazil, Argentina and Chile so the culture shock will hopefully not be as bad. I have planned my exploratory trip this September. I do love the beach so I want to live in Quito and spend a month or so annually on the coast. I hope when I move there I get to meet you and buy you lunch and a beer. Thanks again, George
Thanks George, and good luck on your move. If I get the opportunity to meet you, I'll be curious to know why you're picking Quito as opposed to Cuenca. -ds
Just found you and happy I did. We'll have that coffee ☕ at some point. You are funny with your straight talk delivery of 10 reasons. All my in-laws are Ecuadorian.. Maybe that could be the beginning a joke...but no, they are nice folks...and their native son and I will be retiring there soon. We too are enjoying high earning CDs, and will be evaluating a business ownership opportunity next week when my hubby flies there to check it out. I look forward to our future residency there and all Ecuador can offer.
The interest rate on investment CDs here pay 8.5% on one-year CDs. The national insurance provided by the government insures the CDs up to $35k per banking institution which is why it's so important to do your homework/research and pick reputable banks to bank with. I use JEP Cooperative for mine. If you would like to talk to someone, you can reach out to Javier Bermudez at +593 098 129 5366 on WhatsApp and he will be happy to assist. Thanks for watching. Don
Don, u rock! You make me want to visit Ecuador however I went to Medellín, Colombia 3 weeks ago, and I'm going back in 3 weeks for 2 weeks. It wb my new home away from home. I never felt homesick in my life before but when I see vlogs of this Medellin city -- it has touched me in a way I have never experienced before. I'd be scared to see and experience how beautiful Ecuador is! I am so happy that you are happy and #gotitright, in finding and creating a happy place for yourself, and sharing that happiness and protection with the locals. I wish you more happiness if that's possible, and thanks for the vlog. Oh, I just may visit Ecuador if I fully move to Colombia, there's a lot of kerfufflely things with Colombia Visas and Xpats, so instead of treking back to USA, I may take a detour to Ecuador once or twice. I come by for a cup of coffee with you with some port! I hope you love Port!
I will visit Columbia some day as well. I've heard wonderful things about Medellin. As much as I love EC, I feel I just have to get out and see more of this region and I'm getting lots of encouragement to check out Medellin. Please keep in touch with me and tell me more about Columbia and Medellin. -ds
Really enjoyed your video. Laid back and informative. I’m definitely taking you up on that coffee offer when I muster up the courage to throw it all away and make the move.
In Guayaquil we actually do have Carl's Jr, McDonalds, Burger King and Wendy's. Fortunately my wife and I discipline ourselves and seldom go to these places. We enjoy eating healthier. Fruit and vegetable carts come down our street daily.
Hi Don, thank you for the good info. I’m in Canada and looking at the best place to retire to. Many countries around the world are awesome but Ecuador is not that far away from home. Taxation is another important issue. Canada and Ecuador have a non-double taxation agreement which will keep me from having to file annual taxes. Also, Ecuador will give you a credit on taxes you pay abroad; many positives really. Would like to keep in touch and meet if possible once I’ve made up my mind to move to Ecuador.
Don! I could not agree with you more on all you reason. I an an expat retired from Las Vegas and have lived here for over 10 years. I am glad to see you enjoy and respect for the culture and the people here. I could not live anywhere else! Thank You for the video!
Hello, Don! I plan on moving to Cuenca within the next three years. Would love to pick your brain as the time to relocate gets closer . I am very excited as well as a little scared. Your videos reenforce my desire to get to Ecuador as soon as possible. Thank you for that! 😊
@@DonShader Thank you for getting back so quickly! I plan on watching every single one of them! Your videos are wonderful and much appreciated. Please keep it up! Have a wonderful day!
![8 Reasons Why Americans LEAVE Costa Rica [Why I Left]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cbGMngGx2xk/mqdefault.jpg)
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No sugar. No sweet talk. No salesman pitch. Just straight to the point, grown ass man talk. Love it! Outstanding my man!
I fall in love with my own country by listening to you. Thank you for sharing so lovely thoughts about Ecuador and its people 😉
Wow, thank you!
It's a beautiful thing to hear and see that there are expats, who not only understand the culture clash and the importance of our impact, but are also willing to defend what the indigenous people of Ecuador have established. We must be mindful, considerate, and conscientious of our footprints on a land that isn't native to US. As an Ecuadorian citizen who's lived abroad for many years, it is very refreshing to see an appreciation for this country where the impact from those that don't is becoming more evident. Thank you Don. From a fellow Arizonian. 🤝
Thank you! I appreciate this. I'm going to archive this comment.
-ds
Thank you Don. It would be great to meet you someday.
😘 I love you! You are so down to earth and your comment about entitled expats shows you are a good soul.
😊 thank you
I was looking to say something similar in regards to entitled expats but I can say it no better than what you did flor. You would have to be a complete ass to go to someone else's home and act like they should cater to you. Thank these people for inviting you.
He calls a spade a spade.
Really like your no BS videos Don. Good job!. I'm retiring at the end of the year and I'm interested in Ecuador. Now I just need to convince my lovely wife.
Maybe you should consider an exploratory trip.
-ds
Hello Don, thank you for your appreciation and respect for my country and its people, may your path be prosperous with abundant health and happiness.
Man, you have developed your soul with honors. I live in Manta. I am from Spain, and I agree with you 100%
Thank you.
8.5% per month CD where?
Don, thanks for this video and as usual you always had something in store for us. Ecuador is a great country with great people, culture arts , food and everything there is. Probably I can add two more: Ecuador is definitely among the few countries Monsanto hates most and (2) it is the only country that Mother Nature do have some constitutional right. In short, nature co-exist and enjoys similar privileges as humans do.
You are so right in all regards. If I sat and thought hard enough, I bet I could come up with another ten great reasons for being here. Thanks so much for your valuable feedback.
Even if Monsanto and bioengineered food/veggies are not allowed to be produced in Ecuador, i had heard from others that some Ecuadorian farmers do use some pesticides on their crops or vegetables, while others don't. Is this true?
"I like beer and wine." lol - you won me over with that
Hello Don, my wife was born in Ecuador and came to the US when she was 6 years old. I had the opportunity to visit Ecuador in 2017 and fell in love with it. She retired as a teacher and I'm semi-retired (mid 50's). I have been trying to get her to live in Ecuador during our Winters. I think it just might happen (fingers crossed), we both speak Spanish (her more) and she she has family here. We can easily live in luxury there.
I'm rooting for you! Thanks for sharing.
-ds
My Brother in Law left Atlanta for Ecuador fifteen or so years ago and has never set foot back in the US. It's an awesome place and from where I stand it's looking better by the day.
#10 brought tears to my eyes. This is the society I want to live in. Thank you.
We retired 4 months ago and we are traveling slowly between Mexico and Argentina, in search of our favorite retirement city. We are currently in my wife’s home country of Nicaragua, in the mountains of Matagalpa.
We will be here until February then off to our next countries which are Guatemala and then Mexico ( 6 months each ). But after that we are heading to South America- we are cool weather lovers !
Manizales, Colombia
Cuenca, Ecuador
Arequipa, Peru
Buenas Aires, Argentina
Ecuador is very high on our list ! It checks many boxes.
Safe, cool weather, good healthcare, we speak Spanish, low cost of living, and walkable.
And I believe cities like Cuenca are less expensive than coastal cities, right ?
Great video !
I like you Don, for speaing so highly of my country. I wish you a long and happy stay in the country in the Middle of The World.
*speaking
My pleasure Sir.
Thank you so much for your words about our country. You and your family and every good people from USA and others countries are welcome to Ecuador. Enjoy it. Best Regards.
You are so kind
Great video Don. I am from Ecuador but I've lived in AZ for 20 years, I laughed out loud when you said " You try not to get microwaved outside in AZ" It's so true! I'm glad you are happy in Ecuador!
Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you for your video. I am an Ecuadorian living in the USA 🇺🇸 thank you for saying such a nice things about Ecuador 🇪🇨
Thanks for watching!
I’m Ecuadorian
I just came back from Ecuador Teo weeks ago can’t wait to go back
I’m originally from Cuenca. I own a house in the Remigio area
I’ve been living in the states for 25 years I, love it here too. In a couple of year I’m moving back to Cuenca exactly for those reasons that you just mentioned here in your show
I’m happy for you
Safe country, cheap to live, perfect weather. That was my Google search criteria and Ecuador was number one. Lived there from 2013 to 2016. Would like to go back after retirement later this year.
BIG SOFT AIR HUGS ! WISH I WER THER , WITH YOU IN SPIRIT.THANK YOU ....lost volcanos ther 100!! good place to be also when global winter comin.
Global winter? Please explain.
Nice to hear your comments!!
Thanks friend, D
I'm glad to see you watching my videos. Hope all is well with you.
@@DonShader
Forwarded you 10 reason or comments to my daughter. She may be down😀
Don. So happy to find your channel. We are from Gilbert, AZ and considering moving to Ecuador. Thanks for the content.
Don sorry to hear about your recent problems in Ecuador.Hope things work out better
You have been one of the very best videos I have heard on why moving to Ecuador from the USA. And I have researched Alot of them
In a previous video Don did I saw a street view of Manta from his apartment and it reminded me of Miami pre-1955. Nice, uncrowded and innocent.
Hi Don! Another great and interesting (plus humorous comments) video. Really appreciate your honesty and great insightful descriptions of the Ecuadorean people. Their happiness and love of their daily lives is in stark contrast to a large majority of the U.S. population. I look forward to my exploratory visit to Ecuador in 2022 and all the country has to offer. I am subscribed to your channel and always eagerly await a new video and your personal perspective of life there. Stay safe and healthy(could be the beer and wine that is definitely helping; ha ha)!
Joyce
🎉FELIZ DIA del PADRE🎉
🎉HAPPY Father's Day!🎉
To ALL RETIREES here in Ecuador and the wirld😅
You're an amazing person Don. Welcome to Ecuador. Es usted divino, adorable ❤🤗 Feliz Navidad!
Mucho gracias, Feliz Navidad.
Really enjoyed listening to you and now considering Manta as well 😊 thank you :)
Greetings from Bermuda Don! New sub here ! I am working in Bermuda as Expat! I am looking to purchase a home there!Thank you for all the advice!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾👍🏾😊
Hello Don. I lived in Cotacachi for a few years and moved on to Colombia. I've been struggling with residencia here since coming here. Being canadian does complicste things. The canadian system is burdeles with bureaucracy. Everything in trrms of documentación takes a llt of time.
This rant could continue but I shall say I am in my final effort at residency and if it does not happen, I Will return to ecuador. Good work on your blog. Rafa
Love love love your videos. Your happiness and confidence is more evident in every one of them. Makes me want to move there (but not yet😀).
Another excellent video Don. Thank you. I will be reaching out to you soon.
I just discovered your channel. Man, I love how you say it like it is. We need more of that - no sugar-coating BS. Thanks you Sir!
Welcome aboard!
Don! ❤ What a guy! No BS!
You sir, are an Ecuadorian! And that’s a compliment, I took my California wife to visit my home country for the first time in 2016. And she want’s to know when we are moving there for good?
What a great informative video. Straight to the point. Thanksso much.
Thank you Don Shader. You are awesome! I really apreciate your great words about Manabí.
f
You are very welcome
Thank you for enjoying Ecuador and for you honesty, great video
Hey Don, “Longtime watcher (4 mos) new subscriber, first time commenter”
Great video, good information, as always, love the perspective you give on the country. So, this is not criticism but an observation on my part.
From everything I’ve been able to glean about healthcare in Ecuador (and other countries not spelled US) both from your videos and those of others the healthcare that is provided is excellent and AFFORDABLE, not cheap. Cheap, for most people, is indicative of lesser quality ~ poorly made ~ or, second rate. The healthcare experience that you have described is none of that. You have received quality care, provided in a manner most Americans are unfamiliar with (MD’s making “house calls,” seeing you at your convenience on a WEEKEND, come on that’s UN-American) but more importantly it was AFFORDABLE! And certainly not cheap. I think, from a standpoint of comparison, that affordable is preferable to cheap.
Keep up the great work and I look forward to more of your interesting posts and perspectives. Can’t wait to join you in your new country!
Thanks Ole, you make a good point. From now on, it's "affordable", not "cheap". I never really liked that word anyway.
Don
Don has used the word "cheap" for emphasis. However, I agree with Ole. The word that I was thinking was "inexpensive." Originally from Oklahoma, I live in Ecuador and am married to an Ecuadorian. I am on his social security and therefore, I do not pay one red cent for health care. NONE. And my care has been equal to or better than in the United States. By the way, when I say "health care," it includes my prescription medications. I pay nothing. No copays. Previous illnesses are covered. No paperwork. There are insurance companies but, for sure, I don't need them! So again, I do NOTHING but get my excellent health care. I almost had a heart attack from shock when a doctor came to our home on a Sunday morning. Can you believe this? Well, it's true! One last thing that I think is important concerning health care in Ecuador. If you need a refill of a medication, you do NOT need to go back to the doctor for another piece of paper that says medication refill. I merely take my pill bottles to a pharmacy and it's in Ecuadorian law that a pharmacist refills my medication. Amazing!
Hubby & I continue to enjoy watching your videos! Your factual and honest opinions keep us coming back. I'm very wary of anyone who monetizes their TH-cam channel as their primary source of income. First red flag is when they smile their way through the entire video pretending everything is perfect. Bravo Don and may I say you appear more confident and content!
Thank you so much California Girl. You're very kind. I have no intention of monetizing this channel. It's not worth the effort it takes. If I was at that level, I would be no different than some other TH-camrs I know that won't give you the time of day. That's just not my character.
I really have to stop watching these videos because they make me want to pick up and move to Ecuador. It sounds like heaven! By the way, this is the first video of yours I have seen. I went back to watch your earlier videos and I think you lost weight!
Thanks,
My weight fluctuates so much. I want to remove my most recent vid (but I won't) because I look so fat but really, it's just the way I'm sitting.
It's very easy to lose weight here because of the lack of junk food, lots of walking and just clean living. I don't have a scale so I can't confirm nor deny if I've lost any.
But thanks for noticing though.
-ds
Very helpful. Thanks, Don!
Wow can you imagine that? 5:05
Our reason for wanting to leave Texas.Not many kind people here.My sons inlaws are from Mexico.That latin kindness is why I think they are the kindest people I know.So with how you explained how the Ecuadorians are so kind I think Ecuador is our place to retire.The stess here in Texas is nerve wracking.The mass shootings in the US is insane. I am grateful for all of your information and hope to have a coffee with you one day.Thank you again and enjoy you new retirements
I agree.
Terrific video! Subscribed
Thanks for the video, Don, I really appreciate your insight as to why you chose Ecuador. My wife and I are doing research into Ecuador and have been really amazed so far. We are in the USA and are so tired of the way of life here and want a much slower pace into our retirement. I have been looking at properties in Manta, so might be taking a trip there soon as well as Cotacachi. Take care :).
Dearest Don,
I have narrowed my selection down to Portugal and Ecuador . I would live happily in Cuenca. I don’t know deciding which language to master. You make Ecuador seem easy (I lived in NYC for 25 years, I know all about the need for eyes in the back of your head) and I have continued moving west currently living in Mesa!! I do not like the heat!! You don’t understand the heat until you’re in 117 degrees. I am looking at the perks an older person would get. I am 62, there are allot more in Ecuador so far that I can see. I appreciate your honesty and heartfelt information. I live at Gilbert/university in Mesa. Thanks for everything Don.
Catherine from Mesa, Arizona
Thank you Catherine. I live in Fountain of the Sun in Mesa since 2010 and in spite of the hot summers, I loved the winters there better. I miss living there and for some reason, I just thought about how much I miss eating BBQ at Rudy's in Gilbert.
Really kind of words for my people thank you! and thank you for running off bad ex pats 😂🙏🏻 Overall really great reasons!
Love your videos. You're so real
Gracias por tan lindos comentarios de Manta y Ecuador en general .
I'm going to binge watch all your Ecuador videos.
Very nice presentation, you are authentic and sincere. I love Ecuador and I am planning to move there in a year.
You should!
Great video !
Cost of living and weather and healthcare are our main reasons to explore Ecuador as a retirement spot.
We are starting in Mexico with our very old senior dogs but when they are gone we start heading south…
Love your videos. This makes me so homesick. I grew up in Venezuela but it is no longer a functioning country. Ecuador looks so inviting for my retirement.
Come on down Shane.
Great video! Very informative. I'm planning to live (come back) to Ecuador after I retire, in about 25 years from now. Life is full of happiness in Ecuador
Sounds great!
Hey Don. My wife and I have spent time in Quito and Cuenca and we agree with everything you say. Hope to have a coffee with you one day. Take it easy from Canada.
looking forward to it. Thanks.
-ds
I appreciate your down to earth delivery & your humour! Thank you! Jessie Fawn
Thank you.
-ds
Those $1 coins hold up better than bills. The people won't accept torn or damage bills; so only bring bills in good condition. However many locals do consider $4 and $2 bills to be lucky. KFC is everywhere but different. Great video keep up the great work!
Great video
Well hey there Don. You seem a regular sort…… refreshing!
Well thanks Todd, may I say the same for you? :-)
You are awesome. Following. Thank you!
Hi Don, keep up the good work! Could you share the contact name of the bank you are using in Manta? I'm thinking about CDs.
“So what? I really love beer and wine”. Love it! 🤘🤘. I can’t wait to be retired and get out of here.
Well you got my subscription. From one old dude to another thank you and I look forward to more episodes as I've been pondering the move myself.
Awesome, thank you!
Amazing video! Suscribed.
The passion and respect you show through your words while referring to local ecuadorian people is the way it always should be. Congrats.
BTW I'm argentinian and have been several times to the USA. I deeply understand every single word you said about the differences between "here and there".
I do congratulate you for being courageous enough to take the probably kost important step of your life by moving to Ecuador.
Best wishes. Diego.
Thank you for sharing .
Just started to think of doing this .
Watching you and another channel .
Awesome! Thank you!
@@DonShader thank you , and I liked how you present it .mater of fact .
I continue to watch and learn .
Hello Don, I'm a new subscriber. I thoroughly enjoyed your video on your 10 reasons for moving to Ecuador. The main reason I'm posting is that it is so wonderful to see/listen to a mature presence describing their live in Ecuador. My partner and I are planning travel in 2023 to Ecuador to consider as a place of retirement. Thank you for the encouraging words and for celebrating the Ecuadorian people and their lives. I'll make sure and review your other postings to keep up before our travel there.
Norman and Robert
Thank you so much, I appreicate your feedback. Keep me posted on your progress.
Don
Don, that’s sure sounds a brutally honest sketch of all things beautiful to experience for anyone wanting a good living there, yeah life can be simple as that as Ecuadorians can show it, yes some expats can be so sophisticated and smug and fail to appreciate. Great points, nice intro 😀
Thank you for explaining so well why did you pick Ecuador. I want to retire to this beautiful country too 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Don... Please do a video on the CD's as you mentioned
Also I have been here in Manta all month and I leave on Monday Oct 25th. I would love to buy you a meal between now and then. I'm actually staying at the Ibiza Thank you Steve
Hi Steve,
I eat breakfast at Dulce and Cremoso in the mall every morning at 9:00AM. I'm always sitting afainst the far way with a few other folks. Please come and join us at your convenience. It would be my pleasure to meet you.
Don
Hi don. I am mark from Canada I am in manta now, until November 25. I love you videos. I am looking at South America to retire.
Yes, please do a separate video on money and investments, etc. I'd love to know your take on it.
don-just found ypur channel.subbed and rang bell.going through the tragedy of watching my sweet wife die from lung cancer.no one reason to stay here and will be selling everything by the end of the year.medical cost have robbed me .retired to take care of her.looking very hard at ecuador.loved your vid.honest,straight up, and great humor.will be binge watching your chanel.lwill definitely stop by manta and join you for breakfast.new stars are the best.
Thanks Ronald and I'm so sorry to hear that news about your wife.
-ds
Great 👍🏼 blessings
Great Don, we almost moved to ECUADOR: Villamil, but we wanted to be closer to the US so we settle for the closest thing to the States (we even consider CUBA, but the Real Estate ocean front is too much dinero $) Don you are witty and interesting to watch and your life experience is priceless, are you doing any stock market or how does a brokerage work?, I love the part you talk about food, God bless you in your pH (pursuit of happiness)!
I played around with the stock market and really developed a good understanding of how to earn money in the market and the one thing I learned the most is that to really be successful, you have to think and invest long term, which requires time. Time that I don't have, not to mention money.
Thanks for your feedback.
Nice straightforward video. Our plan is to move to Cotacachi in 2 years. We leave for Cotacachi in March to complete the purchase of some rental property! We would move now but we both take care of our moms
I hear this story often and it admirable that you take that approach.
Thanks Don, I like your straightforwardness.
I am retiring to Quito next year and want to thank you for all the wonderful advice and information. I am lucky in that I have lived in many countries in my life with my job including Brazil, Argentina and Chile so the culture shock will hopefully not be as bad. I have planned my exploratory trip this September. I do love the beach so I want to live in Quito and spend a month or so annually on the coast. I hope when I move there I get to meet you and buy you lunch and a beer. Thanks again, George
Thanks George, and good luck on your move. If I get the opportunity to meet you, I'll be curious to know why you're picking Quito as opposed to Cuenca.
-ds
This is great! I'll be 57 in a couple months, so your 1 and 2 on the list are speaking my language.
Just found you and happy I did. We'll have that coffee ☕ at some point. You are funny with your straight talk delivery of 10 reasons. All my in-laws are Ecuadorian..
Maybe that could be the beginning a joke...but no, they are nice folks...and their native son and I will be retiring there soon. We too are enjoying high earning CDs, and will be evaluating a business ownership opportunity next week when my hubby flies there to check it out. I look forward to our future residency there and all Ecuador can offer.
Glad to hear this. Good luck and please keep in touch.
I have an Ecuadorian girlfriend and she's quite special to me.
Thanks for watching.
-ds
Your common sense and your sense of humor are just great, Don.
Thanks!
Don, I sure enjoyed your videos. You are very direct and not afraid to call a cat a cat. You are telling us as it is. No BS. Thanks
Thanks 👍
I would love to have more information about the CD you mentioned. Thanks
The interest rate on investment CDs here pay 8.5% on one-year CDs. The national insurance provided by the government insures the CDs up to $35k per banking institution which is why it's so important to do your homework/research and pick reputable banks to bank with. I use JEP Cooperative for mine.
If you would like to talk to someone, you can reach out to Javier Bermudez at +593 098 129 5366 on WhatsApp and he will be happy to assist.
Thanks for watching.
Don
Great Vid. Would like to meet u bro!
Don, u rock! You make me want to visit Ecuador however I went to Medellín, Colombia 3 weeks ago, and I'm going back in 3 weeks for 2 weeks. It wb my new home away from home. I never felt homesick in my life before but when I see vlogs of this Medellin city -- it has touched me in a way I have never experienced before. I'd be scared to see and experience how beautiful Ecuador is! I am so happy that you are happy and #gotitright, in finding and creating a happy place for yourself, and sharing that happiness and protection with the locals. I wish you more happiness if that's possible, and thanks for the vlog. Oh, I just may visit Ecuador if I fully move to Colombia, there's a lot of kerfufflely things with Colombia Visas and Xpats, so instead of treking back to USA, I may take a detour to Ecuador once or twice.
I come by for a cup of coffee with you with some port! I hope you love Port!
I will visit Columbia some day as well. I've heard wonderful things about Medellin. As much as I love EC, I feel I just have to get out and see more of this region and I'm getting lots of encouragement to check out Medellin. Please keep in touch with me and tell me more about Columbia and Medellin.
-ds
Really enjoyed your video. Laid back and informative. I’m definitely taking you up on that coffee offer when I muster up the courage to throw it all away and make the move.
Sounds great!
In Guayaquil we actually do have Carl's Jr, McDonalds, Burger King and Wendy's. Fortunately my wife and I discipline ourselves and seldom go to these places. We enjoy eating healthier. Fruit and vegetable carts come down our street daily.
Welcome!
I went to ASU and after 5 years in the desert I was ready to leave.
GREAT. Enjoy. 🇪🇨
Can’t wait to take you up on the cup of coffee Don. Next November will be our first visit.
Looking forward to it.
-ds
Thanks for making this video Don, very helpful
Glad it was helpful!
Yes. U have made the right choice. Too expensive in the USA ..
Thanks for Ecuador 🇪🇨 💙
Hi Don, thank you for the good info. I’m in Canada and looking at the best place to retire to. Many countries around the world are awesome but Ecuador is not that far away from home. Taxation is another important issue. Canada and Ecuador have a non-double taxation agreement which will keep me from having to file annual taxes. Also, Ecuador will give you a credit on taxes you pay abroad; many positives really. Would like to keep in touch and meet if possible once I’ve made up my mind to move to Ecuador.
Yes Maria, you are correct on all of the above. Please keep in touch and feel free to write any time you have any questions.
-ds
Great video Don! Just became a subscriber. Can't wait to watch the rest of your videos.
Welcome aboard!
Love your introduction: La Cucaracha-Hello
😂
Thanks Don for being so honest. Live it. And yes, those with the awful attitude, leave!. They always ruin everything
Thanks Jeannie.
-ds
Loved your video😊👍
Don! I could not agree with you more on all you reason. I an an expat retired from Las Vegas and have lived here for over 10 years. I am glad to see you enjoy and respect for the culture and the people here. I could not live anywhere else! Thank You for the video!
Thank you for your kind words and support.
-ds
Hello, Don! I plan on moving to Cuenca within the next three years. Would love to pick your brain as the time to relocate gets closer . I am very excited as well as a little scared. Your videos reenforce my desire to get to Ecuador as soon as possible. Thank you for that! 😊
Keep in touch and watch some of the more current videos. Attitudes and emotions change a lot over time while being here.
@@DonShader Thank you for getting back so quickly! I plan on watching every single one of them! Your videos are wonderful and much appreciated. Please keep it up! Have a wonderful day!