Hi Don, I so enjoy your matter of fact chats. You are a warm and generous person to share your experiences and knowledge of Ecuador with us. Thank you.
I agree it's sad , but this happens every day here in the USA . I grew up in Brooklyn NY & USE Common Sence ALWAYS !! Don't go where it don't feel right !!!
Thank you for your candor and calling the shots as you see them. In the next few months I am planning to retire and move to Ecuador so I was glad you raised the subject of Medicare. The conventional wisdom seems to be to at least keep Medicare B until you are absolutely sure you won’t be returning to the US. Since it will be my first move abroad The conventional wisdom makes sense to me. I realize everyone’s situation is different and that would dictate a different solution. It was interesting to hear your reasoning.
Thanks for this mix of important info. I currently get Cuenca High Life in my email every morning. It’s a great source of random news. I’ll have to check out your other suggestion as well. Crime is on the increase throughout the world it seems. So it’s best to use common sense at all times. I’m glad that no one was hurt. Thank you for all the help and useful info you give to your subscribers, we truly appreciate you!
Love your honesty…is the kind of advice and counsel that a friend would give. Keep up the good work. And btw, good luck getting your instant pot out of Aduana. I just bought one…wish me luck!
Another great video Don! This is why you have a great following, you don’t sugar coat everything. There was a TH-camr that suggested not going out at night. I won’t mention his name because I disagree with most of his content. You most certainly can be out and about at night but use sensibility. You are 100% correct, they should have taken a taxi at that hour . The best thing is call a taxi from a cooperative that you always use.
Thanks again Don and, oh so sad for the people who got robbed...thanks for the good advicevandvwarning regarding robbery which sadly happen everywhere. Happy to hear you have reliable news...certainly can't be said about Europe .. Oh and, the protests...I just participated in an Ecuadorian debate about this yesterday! Overall, I admire the indiginous people who have payed so much for generations and, I hope people "just" watching this from the sideline, knows exactly what this is all about..many Western people could learn a lot from these wonderful people..if they Western people wanted to learn that is ....no more about this here. And oh, this import and delivery in Ecuador...second time I hear about this today. Why don't soneone start a postal system in Ecuador?? So many things dear Don....breakfast is on me when I arrive and, we can take a little morning chat about, how to solve/heal the sinking ship called Planet Earth. I'm sure you and I can do that, at least as good as all politicians, living on same planet.. Take care.- tomorrow is Friday 🤗
I also am living outside the US in Brazil. I canceled my Medicare part B. Remember they only cover you for 3 month outside the US. I get my insurance here in Brazil. It cover many things with no deductible. Also there is free local hospital care here. Don right why waste 170 a month when you can’t even use it after 3 months.
Don! Great to see you! We both certainly appreciate all you are doing with these videos! I hope that we are able sit down and have a breakfast or three when finally get there!
Hi Don, Carlos at BlueBox talked about a maximum allowable amount for pre-existing conditions that applies after the 24 month waiting period is completed. He said it's "important for everybody to know that no matter how much is the maximum coverage of my policy the maximum coverage by the law will be $8,500, which is equivalent to to 20 Ecuadorian basic salaries." I believe that applies to all private insurance plans in Ecuador? Carlos said the IESS waiting period is only 3 months, but he didn't mention anything about a maximum on pre-existing for public insurance.
Don I watch all your videos. Great content. Normally I don’t watch all the credits at the end of your videos but today I did. The skit at the end has kept me chuckling ever since. I don’t know where you got that clip but great humor.
Thanks for not e-begging. There are alot of channels out here that ask for money. I'll def make sure to take you out for breakfast tho when I ever get out to Manta.
Are you saying that you would’ve had to wait 24 months in Ecuador for getting any treatment for anything related to your high blood pressure? That’s a long waiting. Period to get medication, etc. Thank you for that information.
In my experience relating to crime in many countries.. I have travelled extensively throughout the world and have visited at great length over 38 countries. I have also lived for decades in both the U.S. and Europe..Indeed crime is everywhere, however, it much more prolific in certain areas of the world.. I can honestly say, that I have never been a victim of violent crime, thank goodness. I have on occasion found myself in precarious situations while living in New York. Also, some areas of Asia and South America are not to be taken lightly regarding safety.. At any rate, now that I am getting older, I am less willing to take a chance regarding crime.. I play it safe nowadays and will never live in a crime ridden area where one needs to look over their shoulder to see if someone is following.
Your common sense advise is really appreciated. With crime increasing everywhere and especially when so many people are impoverished and hungry. I hope the lady who was robbed is ok and doing well. I'm not sure if the links for news sources are in the "show more" area? Looked but didn't see them. I did see Mr. Carter hanging out though 🐯 (so dang cute).😉 Is it ok to pm you? I have a few questions, and certainly would be honored to treat you to an Ecuadorian breakfast when I visit and/or pay a fee too. Thank you for taking the time to make these informative videos. 👍
Thanks so much for the reminder, the links for the papers are now in the Description. Yes, you can PM me or email, either way. I prefer email if possible. And Mr. Parker is blushing that you spotted him.
Hi Don. I appreciate the candor with which you provide useful information. I am concerned about buying electronics in Ecuador such as computer devices, smart TV's, maybe even kitchen appliances. Is it true that these items must be imported as you cannot buy electronics that you want in Ecuador ? And then, as you say, you face delays, costs and the problem of going through customs. Thanks
Don, there is an agency owned by Ecuadorians..Delgado Travel and has agencies in many states in main cities. You can ship 8 pounds for $32 and they have satellites oficies in Manta and all of Ecuador. I believe you can’t send cell phones with them. Just in case somebody needs the information.
Thanks again for the real news Don. Crime happens, but just use common sense. Oh, I would be sending you 40 pounds of solid gold bars, except the customs merry-go-round will be too much of a hassle.
As I am sure you are well aware, the captioning on the bottom of the screen leaves a lot to be desired. As for skipping out on Medicare, Part B late enrollment penalty is as follows: If you didn't get Part B when you're first eligible, your monthly premium may go up 10% for each 12-month period you could've had Part B, but didn't sign up. In most cases, you'll have to pay this penalty each time you pay your premiums, for as long as you have Part B. And, the penalty increases the longer you go without Part B coverage. There is also a Part D penalty. How much is the Part D penalty? The cost of the late enrollment penalty depends on how long you went without Part D or creditable prescription drug coverage. Medicare calculates the penalty by multiplying 1% of the "national base beneficiary premium" ($33.37 in 2022) times the number of full, uncovered months you didn't have Part D or creditable coverage. The monthly premium is rounded to the nearest $.10 and added to your monthly Part D premium. The national base beneficiary premium may change each year, so your penalty amount may also change each year. I would think long and hard about this matter, as a very high percentage of expats return home to the US within a few years.
@@DonShader Nobody, but if you elect to not have parts B&D deducted from your social security, and if you ever decide to return to Joe Bidenland, you will be paying these penalties on both Parts B & D for the rest of your life.
Don, thanks for the update.
Paul
Hi Don, I so enjoy your matter of fact chats. You are a warm and generous person to share your experiences and knowledge of Ecuador with us. Thank you.
Wow, thank you
"along with the sunshine" as the song goes - thank you, Don!
I agree it's sad , but this happens every day here in the USA . I grew up in Brooklyn NY & USE Common Sence ALWAYS !! Don't go where it don't feel right !!!
Thanks Don, as always, for telling like you see it.
You are very welcome
Thank you for your candor and calling the shots as you see them.
In the next few months I am planning to retire and move to Ecuador so I was glad you raised the subject of Medicare. The conventional wisdom seems to be to at least keep Medicare B until you are absolutely sure you won’t be returning to the US. Since it will be my first move abroad The conventional wisdom makes sense to me. I realize everyone’s situation is different and that would dictate a different solution. It was interesting to hear your reasoning.
Thanks for this mix of important info. I currently get Cuenca High Life in my email every morning. It’s a great source of random news. I’ll have to check out your other suggestion as well. Crime is on the increase throughout the world it seems. So it’s best to use common sense at all times. I’m glad that no one was hurt. Thank you for all the help and useful info you give to your subscribers, we truly appreciate you!
Love your honesty…is the kind of advice and counsel that a friend would give. Keep up the good work. And btw, good luck getting your instant pot out of Aduana. I just bought one…wish me luck!
Thanks, you too!
Another great video Don! This is why you have a great following, you don’t sugar coat everything. There was a TH-camr that suggested not going out at night. I won’t mention his name because I disagree with most of his content. You most certainly can be out and about at night but use sensibility. You are 100% correct, they should have taken a taxi at that hour . The best thing is call a taxi from a cooperative that you always use.
You are absolutely right. Thanks so much.
-ds
Thanks again Don and, oh so sad for the people who got robbed...thanks for the good advicevandvwarning regarding robbery which sadly happen everywhere.
Happy to hear you have reliable news...certainly can't be said about Europe ..
Oh and, the protests...I just participated in an Ecuadorian debate about this yesterday! Overall, I admire the indiginous people who have payed so much for generations and, I hope people "just" watching this from the sideline, knows exactly what this is all about..many Western people could learn a lot from these wonderful people..if they Western people wanted to learn that is ....no more about this here.
And oh, this import and delivery in Ecuador...second time I hear about this today. Why don't soneone start a postal system in Ecuador??
So many things dear Don....breakfast is on me when I arrive and, we can take a little morning chat about, how to solve/heal the sinking ship called Planet Earth. I'm sure you and I can do that, at least as good as all politicians, living on same planet..
Take care.- tomorrow is Friday 🤗
I also am living outside the US in Brazil. I canceled my Medicare part B. Remember they only cover you for 3 month outside the US. I get my insurance here in Brazil. It cover many things with no deductible. Also there is free local hospital care here. Don right why waste 170 a month when you can’t even use it after 3 months.
Very good video, very good information, thanks !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Don! Great to see you! We both certainly appreciate all you are doing with these videos! I hope that we are able sit down and have a breakfast or three when finally get there!
I hope so too!
Another informative video..well done....stay safe and happy
Thanks, you too!
Thanks Don, great advice. I'm getting closer to pulling the trigger on moving to ......probably Manta.Have to start the process. Yikes
It's a piece of cake. Once you make that first step, you're on your way.
Hi Don, Carlos at BlueBox talked about a maximum allowable amount for pre-existing conditions that applies after the 24 month waiting period is completed. He said it's "important for everybody to know that no matter how much is the maximum coverage of my policy the maximum coverage by the law will be $8,500, which is equivalent to to 20 Ecuadorian basic salaries." I believe that applies to all private insurance plans in Ecuador? Carlos said the IESS waiting period is only 3 months, but he didn't mention anything about a maximum on pre-existing for public insurance.
Okay. Thanks.
Don I watch all your videos. Great content. Normally I don’t watch all the credits at the end of your videos but today I did. The skit at the end has kept me chuckling ever since. I don’t know where you got that clip but great humor.
I get them from Tic Toc. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the update. Us potential ex-pats appreciate your channel very much.
Always!
Thanks for not e-begging. There are alot of channels out here that ask for money. I'll def make sure to take you out for breakfast tho when I ever get out to Manta.
Don... I am going to send you a free... thumbs up!
Perfect! Thanks so much.
Nice video
Thanks
Are you saying that you would’ve had to wait 24 months in Ecuador for getting any treatment for anything related to your high blood pressure? That’s a long waiting. Period to get medication, etc. Thank you for that information.
It depends on the insurance company.
Have you checked into the 4x4 service to avoid customs fees?
I don't even know what the 4x4 service is. What the heck are you talking about?
In my experience relating to crime in many countries.. I have travelled extensively throughout the world and have visited at great length over 38 countries. I have also lived for decades in both the U.S. and Europe..Indeed crime is everywhere, however, it much more prolific in certain areas of the world.. I can honestly say, that I have never been a victim of violent crime, thank goodness. I have on occasion found myself in precarious situations while living in New York. Also, some areas of Asia and South America are not to be taken lightly regarding safety.. At any rate, now that I am getting older, I am less willing to take a chance regarding crime.. I play it safe nowadays and will never live in a crime ridden area where one needs to look over their shoulder to see if someone is following.
Yeah, thats the key. Don't put yourself in the position to be a victim. Take a cab home at night. If , you have to be out.
Your common sense advise is really appreciated. With crime increasing everywhere and especially when so many people are impoverished and hungry. I hope the lady who was robbed is ok and doing well. I'm not sure if the links for news sources are in the "show more" area? Looked but didn't see them. I did see Mr. Carter hanging out though 🐯 (so dang cute).😉 Is it ok to pm you? I have a few questions, and certainly would be honored to treat you to an Ecuadorian breakfast when I visit and/or pay a fee too. Thank you for taking the time to make these informative videos. 👍
Thanks so much for the reminder, the links for the papers are now in the Description.
Yes, you can PM me or email, either way. I prefer email if possible.
And Mr. Parker is blushing that you spotted him.
Hi Don. I appreciate the candor with which you provide useful information.
I am concerned about buying electronics in Ecuador such as computer devices, smart TV's, maybe even kitchen appliances. Is it true that these items must be imported as you cannot buy electronics that you want in Ecuador ? And then, as you say, you face delays, costs and the problem of going through customs. Thanks
You can get good electronics here but maybe not the quality you might get in other countries.
I am coming to Manta in January and staying on Calle 28. Is that an OK area? Of course same rules, I'm usually inside by night.
I'm sure, and at least hopeful all of this will be resolved by then. There are no protest and riots, etc in Manta.
Don, there is an agency owned by Ecuadorians..Delgado Travel and has agencies in many states in main cities. You can ship 8 pounds for $32 and they have satellites oficies in Manta and all of Ecuador. I believe you can’t send cell phones with them. Just in case somebody needs the information.
Thanks Amelia, I'll look into it.
I want to know about that box of Ritz crackers behind you! Where'd you get that?
Haha, at the Mega Maxi.
Thanks again for the real news Don. Crime happens, but just use common sense. Oh, I would be sending you 40 pounds of solid gold bars, except the customs merry-go-round will be too much of a hassle.
No worries I can keep those for us, send them to me....just like the Federal Res....umm er, no dont think of a monkey...lol
As I am sure you are well aware, the captioning on the bottom of the screen leaves a lot to be desired. As for skipping out on Medicare, Part B late enrollment penalty is as follows:
If you didn't get Part B when you're first eligible, your monthly premium may go up 10% for each 12-month period you could've had Part B, but didn't sign up. In most cases, you'll have to pay this penalty each time you pay your premiums, for as long as you have Part B. And, the penalty increases the longer you go without Part B coverage.
There is also a Part D penalty. How much is the Part D penalty?
The cost of the late enrollment penalty depends on how long you went without Part D or creditable prescription drug coverage.
Medicare calculates the penalty by multiplying 1% of the "national base beneficiary premium" ($33.37 in 2022) times the number of full, uncovered months you didn't have Part D or creditable coverage. The monthly premium is rounded to the nearest $.10 and added to your monthly Part D premium.
The national base beneficiary premium may change each year, so your penalty amount may also change each year.
I would think long and hard about this matter, as a very high percentage of expats return home to the US within a few years.
Who the hell says you have to buy Part B?
@@DonShader Nobody, but if you elect to not have parts B&D deducted from your social security, and if you ever decide to return to Joe Bidenland, you will be paying these penalties on both Parts B & D for the rest of your life.
@@larryhanson6674 I’m not going to need it.
Thank you Larry. I knew about Part B, wasn’t aware about a Part D penalty.
@@ellenzucker6320 I am paying it myself. Sometimes you learn the hard way.
Stupid places, stupid times, don't do it !!!
Getting robbed walking home in Manta and Mass shootings in the US? Now do Laos and Europe... lmao! But uh what about!
What is a scheduler in Ecuador? How do vou cover your ass if you lose your passport and scheduler?
Scheduler? What the heck are you talking about here?