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Hi Amelia and JP, we love your channel! We're looking to buy our future home in Central or South America in an area that: 1) does not have mosquitoes; 2) has access to regular clean water; and 3) is very walkable. Would Cuenca be a good option? Cultural events would be great, but we don't necessarily need a huge city or "smart" city. I'm guessing cities at a high elevation would be good. We're studying Spanish regularly. Thanks so much for any advice you can give!
Because of your video I moved to Albania one month ago. There are many Americans and other nationalities here. It is beautiful, safe and inexpensive. So, thank you for that.
I just left Albania after a year; it's pretty much same culture shocks I experienced there: street noise, fireworks, people walking into each other, trash laying around, not a decent infrastructure yet and be careful on taxi scams, BUT nice n friendly people.
I've been living in Colombia for 17 years and I can tell you, most of those problems are solved by moving to small town Colombia. We live in a small town about 25 minutes from the Medellin international airport and it's very comfortable with virtually all the conveniences I was accustomed to in the states... But, a whole lot less expensive and less pressure. Great and inexpensive healthcare too. We thought about moving to Ecuador but it just didn't compare.
I'm an Ecuadorian living in NYC basically my whole life and trust me, your culture shocks are MY culture shocks as well. I've also noticed that the staff in shops and stores don't usually like to go "above and beyond" with their customers. They'll help you, but you'll notice they'll give you a little attitude while doing so. This shocked me, as here in the US, customer service staff is usually very polite and helpful, with a few exceptions, and always go the extra mile to help you with your needs.
If you have lived in the U.S. almost your whole life , shouldn’t you be wearing the American jersey instead of Ecuador’s? Also, I would like to ask you something : Is life in Ecuador almost as though as in Venezuela ? The reason I ask is because I often hear about Ecuadorians attempting to enter the U.S. illegally .. and we aren’t talking about “a few” Ecuadorians , we are talking about a ton of them . Something that confuses me because as far as I’m concerned Ecuador is nothing like Venezuela .
Hi Amelia and JP, local Ecuadorian here, about the anecdote Amelia said about waiting in a bakery and the next person standing right behind you when there was enough room I have to tell I do the same and the reason is so that it is clear I'm next in line, otherwise another person could cut in front of me and not everyone is understanding if you explain to them that you were next, I think is most likely the other person would get rude, maybe even throwing expletives, and not move to the end of the line, so that's why, to protect my place in the line. Sorry for the long explanation haha.
I moved to Ecuador with my Ecuadorian husband, to a small mountain town near Latacunga, 6 months ago. I've visited Ecuador 8 times through the years, so I've been aware of the environment. We have a large family here. We recently retired and can't afford to live in the USA. So here we are. We bought land with a small house, and enjoy this peaceful area with a sweeping view of several volcanoes. There's not much to do in our littletown or in Latacunga, the people are only friendly on the surface. You do have to remain vigilant to not overpay for purchases and services. Everyone assumes we are rich and they can get away with overcharging us. Customer service is absent in most transactions and that frustrates me the most. The lack of ascetics in buildings, and shops is depressing. The average restaurant serve unhealthy plates of fried everything with three starchy items and nearly no vegetables. I need a break from all this. But I will share one excellent experience and that has been at the clinic Saint Cecilia in Latacunga. The staff and my surgeon saved my life during a health crisis. The attentive care was overwhelming in the most wonderful way. Something I never experienced in the United States. My surgeon checked on me 3 times a day during my 7 days stay in the hospital. All my follow-up visits have been very attentive and helpful. These events have been the calm in my stormy adjustment to living here.
Beware, however. I just returned from Quito yesterday. During my trip there I was robbed at 12:30 p.m. on a Sunday. Near Plaza Foch in Mariscal District, I was sprayed with a green mustard-like substance. Immediately, I was confronted by two men who robbed me of my wallet. I lost my driver's license, a debit card, and two credit cards. In total, the thieves attempted to charge nearly $25K against my cards. All of the charges were declined by my bank. Fortunately, I didn't have my Passport in my possession. The thieves also pushed me against a metal electrical-circuit box, injuring my left knee. I'm currently unable to walk or sit without excruciating pain. With all due respect to Ecuador, I've traveled around the world to dozens of places. I've never been a victim of violent crime before. The owner of my hotel contacted the tourist policy. According to the owner, who is bilingual, they declined to take a police report, stating "This happens all the time." The U.S. Department of State cautions, "Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping. "
Sorry that happened to you, but I was robbed in Mexico and Foster City CA. And someone tried to break into my house in Greenwood Village Colorado. It can happen anywhere.
The green spray was clearly to impede your ability to fight. They wanted you to be disadvantaged. Your attackers are cowards, in addition to being thieves.
Nunca había pensado lo del suelto.. es verdad!!! Jajaja I love you guys, thanks for loving my country and making that others get to know a little more about Ecuador! ❤
Very interesting video. Some aspects of Ecuadorian culture sound pretty nice. Real friendships aren't all that common the U.S. anymore and there isn't a sense of community it seems. The reason I rarely go to the doctor is if I call for an appointment, it might be a month before they can see me and the way I see it, by then I'll either be over it or dead! It would be nice to be able to see a doctor more quickly. One thing here in the U.S. is many times, one makes an appointment with a doctor and they either get a Physician's Assistant or a Nurse Practitioner. I was in a car accident some years ago and sent to an orthopedist and never even met the man, just saw his 2 PAs. Back when HCJB was on shortwave still, they would have programs about Ecuador that were interesting so I developed a curiosity about the country. Thanks for these great videos telling the world about how it is.
I was in TIA in Cuenca yesterday. A woman reached over me and my basket to grab some oats. She was touching me. I tried to move but she wouldn't. When I came home I realized that she had robbed me. Went back to TIA. Their security camera captured the thief. The TIA lady wouldn't share copy of picture unless I go get the police. I asked her if she can leave the picture with their security to prevent the thief from entering TIA again. She apologized and said that is not possible. So no more TIA for me.
Man, what a sad story . What is sadder is that the lady who works at that supermarket didn’t try to help you. Did she take your money ? How much did she steal from you in total ? Can people tell that you are a “foreigner”? I’m sorry about what you experienced . Hopefully you will now be more careful whenever you go out.
Well if you want to talk about plastic, here are two New Jersey cliches from the last century: 1) Italian families that got custom-made, fitted, clear plastic covers for their furniture. Couches were mandatory. 2) Lawn fountains. Italian neighborhoods were known for them. There was a retailer on rt 23 called "Fountains of Wayne" that had dozens lined up out front, like a garden of lawn fountains. A NYC rock band in the 90s stole this name as their own. They are best known for the Grammy-nominated song "Stacy's Mom".
Lots of good stories there! In Chile they play "sidewalk Chicken" where they refuse to swerve. I learned to stop and stand still, so they'd be forced to do something. In Portugal, people will walk into you in an open field! And let's not get started about the noise prior to 6 am...
I found Ecuadorians to be exceptionally personable and the costs to be such a relief. The only negative is the Postal System. Even incoming Courier parcels go into it , not a good thing. Had 3 parcels sent from USA and Europe sent via quick delivery. All took 2 months just to acknowledge arrival and another 6 MONTHS to deliver .. despite repeated confirmations they were holding them.
On one of our visits to Quito we went to the Museo Nacional del Banco Central del Ecuador. The guide explained to us why it is so hard to get change and why it is always in coins. Ecuador has to buy new paper money from the US. Since paper money wears out they perfer coins to keep the money supply up. Plus there is the additional risk of pick pocketing with cash. That explanation made alot of sense to us.
Don’t people in Ecuador find it odd that they are using American currency ? As an American I would feel strange if we started using the Mexican peso instead of our U.S. dollars .
Great video! I retired to Ajijic, Mexico in January ‘23. The thing I was most warned about was the noise in Mexico. Well, at my house, after 9pm, you can hear a pin drop! One night I heard a mariachi band but it was painfully faint! I’ve always lived in big cities, so I now have to use white noise to fall asleep! 😂 The best culture shock is the treatment of older people. In the states I’ve started to feel invisible. Not here! I even have friends from Guadalajara in their 30’s! All in all, it’s the best shock I’ve had in many years!!! I love it here! ❤
Mexico is the same in a lot of those quirky things. Like Amelia, it blows my mind how most businesses don’t have change! And most don’t take a debit card either yet the ATMs spit out $500’s. They miss out on lots of sales because of that. I know if I try to make a purchase and they don’t have change, I certainly don’t go get change and go back to make my purchase. I go elsewhere and make my purchase. Blows my mind!
All the countries in Latin America are different. Ecuador doesn't have its own currency so they struggled to get change (coins from the US). The same is for Panama. Mexico has its currency which fluctuates a lot because it's widely used in trade transitions especially in Asia and Europe. Yes, while we sleep the equivalent of around $130 Billions USD in Mexican pesos are used to pay for trade among other countries this due to high liquidity of the peso which is the result of Mexican culture where cash is king. Another consequence of the "cash is king" impacts the banking industry in Mexico which struggles to penetrate into more businesses. Mexico is unique and no other country in the Americans has this problem...
I agree. The businesses that don't have change lose my business. I spend a lot less money in some of these cash based societies that have these kind of currency issues. And if some of the businesses accepted credit cards securely, I would spend even more.
In Chile basically everyone, even most street vendors, have a portable card reader and can accept debit and/or credit. Cash is very much on the decline.
I believe most of the businesses are cash only to avoid paying taxes. I’ve had 2 apartment leases since I arrived and both only take cash. People talk about infrastructure and services being poor. The government can’t afford to make things cleaner/better if these businesses don’t pay taxes.
Adding: Nobody likes to pay taxes. I don’t either. Another thing on the same line: have you ever noticed in Mexico how you’ll see a lot of the houses, etc, have rebar still coming up through the roof? Even older builds. I don’t know how true it is, but I’ve been told that they don’t have to pay property taxes until their house or whatever is completed. And as long as they say the house is not complete like they’re going to build another floor, and have that rebar coming up, the build isn’t finished and they don’t have to pay the tax. Weird.
Another great video! My wife of 22 years is from Colombia and when we visit Colombia, SHE has culture-shock. I jokingly call her my Gringa-wife and “explain” Colombia to her and joke with her that if sticks with me, she will learn all kinds of things about Colombia. And yes, it is maddening, and yes they get a lot of things right that we get wrong! Thanks again for sharing your experiences!
This was a good one. Here in the US I was at Walmart one day looking at a computer item on the bottom shelf. This involved me bending over to get close enough to see if it was the item I wanted. Then along came a spanish speaking person who got right in front of me and plucked the item and moved on her way. It was like I was invisible. I'm 76 so respect for old people didn't transfer over here. Funny. But I enjoyed hearing the odd things that happen there. Good luck on your next journey.
Love this video so funny the stickers in everything and the karaoke 😆😂 so true! Also the friendship part is huge you care about the person not what he does or has just the friendships. It happened to me too that I would find out why a persons does after a long time! People in Ecuador included the elderly in everything they’re part of the society and not just left behind.
hahahahahahaha, We live here and it is so funny because it is true, I can relate! It is still better than what is going on in the U.S.A. right now, it breaks my heart and makes me so grateful that we are here!!!
Amelia, you can add another benefit: looking younger and more beautiful 💖 by living in Ecuador. I visited Ecuador last year and met one of my closest friends who decided to move back with her American husband and two little kiddos. Two things caught my immediate attention: she looked amazing, having lost weight and appearing younger. Additionally, she had a babysitter and a cook, luxuries she couldn't afford in the US. Good luck to both of you!
On a more shallow note: Being a visual person, you two were eye candy today!! The vibrant orange and Amazon greenery was a tropical delight! So I say …. Keep stylin’. I feel it is important to entertain our public with some statement beyond beige and khaki! Again, thanks for letting your color flags fly! 🌈
Great video, thank you. My wife and I moved a year ago to a small Mexican town (no ex-pats here) next to Chapala, Jalisco MX. We love it. None of the cons you mentioned with one big exception, the noise. All night dogs bark, roosters crow and thunder during the rainy season. I want to know how you get the church to wait until 6am to ring the bells and set off fireworks; it starts here sometimes at 5am. It's all Ok. Someone commented they have ear plugs. Years ago, I bought from Sharper Image a "white noise machine". It imitates rain, rivers and my favorite the ocean. It successfully blocks out all the outside noise and I sleep wonderfully without interruption. I have been watching you for years. Quick question, you mentioned you might move back to Cuenca. When you left Cuenca for the coast, you said the elevation bothered you JP. Has your body now adapted to 8,000 foot elevation?
Not only Ecuadorian do that, but also Americans. Where I work, they bought furniture and had it covered with plastic for more a year . The same thing when they put the carpet on, they had sheets on it.
The volunteering information is so accurate - it has taken me months to get documents confirmed with my employment which could have taken a couple of weeks if the lawyer/employer had just given the right info to start with! It has been the equivalent of eye surgery. The rest of the list - 100 percent accurate too! The what's app or only phone calls for super true.
Amelia is right. When we were kids, our parents taught us to walk on the right just like people drive. In most American malls, you see this and it's orderly. You go to the Dolphin mall in Miami or to Sawgrass, and it's chaos. Latins just walk differently and they stroll. Americans walk to get to a place quickly
I have lived in Costa Rica since the late 90. Here you don't dare slam a car door shut the way people are taught in the US. I remember as a kid in the US being scolded by my mom for not slamming the door shut "good and tight." Not here. You will make people really mad.
HI Amelia /JP i have been watching your channel for over 3 years you guys are great i must tell you i went to Ecuador 51 years ago that happen because i married an Ecuadorean wonderful woman i have gone to Ecuador at least 5 times in those 51 years and i tell you big difference the way the country looks today then it did far back the only pave roads or streets in those days were the big cities after that it was dirt roads from Guayaquil to Duran you had to get on an old ferry to cross the Guayas river but we had great times traveling the old way all those towns that i see on your channel been there they look great now but those were dangerous times because of social change that was going in those days this young president that is in office should bring good change over all hope to meet you guys some time in the future i believe your in the best place in the world it is a healthy natural country to live in the USA use to be like that with all that stress that you confront every day it,s no wonder people die young with all the other crap you live with here well guys stay young and healthy remember Vilcabamba.
I love it here in Ecuador. All the things you mentioned are absolutely true. I'd also mention that Cuencanos have a deep respect for the arts. Classical music is taken seriously here, as is theater, literature and poetry. When I mention that I direct plays for a local theater group, that is treated with respect and curiosity. The deep, deep DEEP love of futbol is another thing. We never miss a home game for our beloved Deportivo Cuenca, and we've become noted for our demonstrative support and big, furry hats (seriously, they're very big, and very furry.) I've been interviewed on television about being a fervent supporter. This, of course, raised our profile and we made a lot a friends. Our landlord brought us colada morada and guaguas de pan for Dia de los Difuntos. We were, of course, very pleased and grateful. Next year, we'll be ready to reciprocate!
We flew out of Ecuador to get to the Galapagos Islands. We stayed at the Hilton Hotel back in 2014. I was surprised that even at the Hilton the water was not potable. Bottled water was supplied for drinking and tooth brushing. Otherwise our short stay on the Ecuador mainland was pleasant, The Galapagos tour via Lindblad Expeditions and co-marketed thru National Geographic were EXCELLENT. I've taken other National Geo marketed tours and they were VERY GOOD. The subcontractor for our western tour of National Parks mentioned that our accommodations were upscale compared to the tours normally given by the subcontractor company. @13:50 I had to look hard at the picture of tourists dressed for a safari. It looked like it was taken on the Galapagos. Dressing for a safari fits there. There are daily hikes on various islands and they tended to be HOT and DRY. You are out in the sun for a considerable time and these islands are only about 600 miles from the Equator.
Living in multigenerational households is normal even for Ecuadorians outside of Ecuador. We had four generations living under one roof until my grandma passed away at 93.
I feel you guys. I've been living in the U.S.A for the last five years and still go through a cultural shock every time I flight to my country.That moment alone condensses all you've mentioned throughout your video. People are very rude, disrespectful, etc. It's really disappointing for me because I remember different people while growing up in the same country. You guys deserve all respect. You pointed out these situations and still have a smile in your facee regardless the annoyance.
Just got back from my exploratory visit to Cuenca, and "they don't volunteer information" is the one thing I saw repeatedly. My attorney told me to "stop by" the following day at 3pm and sign a document. So I did. She didn't have the document produced, 20 minutes later it had been created, she said "can you walk?" I said, yes, and we walked nearly a mile to a public notary office, where I was told "have a seat this usually takes an hour or two, and they'll call your name when it's your turn". It was mind blowing.
One thing you left out are sidewalk hazards, especially once you leave the main Avenida, even in nice suburbs. This can range from random metal studs sticking up, to dangerously uneven cracks, and even holes big enough to injure you. Quidado!
Wondering if it is an exaggeration to worry that Equador is falling apart after today's TV insurrection. Hope they can get control of their country again.
So funny about the invasion of personal space! It actually happened to me in the US yesterday at the post office. I told the lady, “ You are right on top of me.” No response. Customer service, in stores and restaurants here, is also dismal. It won’t be that big of a culture shock when I get to Cuenca this fall. At least I won’t expect to walk through a cloud of cigarette smoke to get in a business, which was a pleasant surprise when I was there last fall. Luv, luv, luv your Euro travel videos!
I have a friend who spent more for the plastic to cover their furniture then they did for the living room set!!! Coming to Loja ranked number 2 in the world for the best weather. I hate the cold and utility bills.
Ecuadorian businesses haven't had change since my family arrived there in the mid 70s!!! They treat it like they are worth their weight in gold and won't depart from it if they can. 😅😅😅 As an interpreter, I always tell my clients to answer the question first and tell the story later. Many Latin people tell you the story first and the answer at the end. Lol. I bump into people all the time. I wonder if it's from growing up in Quito. I like to say that I'm attracted to the gravity of other people's bodies. 😅😅😅 Dress-code-wise, I'm sorry to inform you that Americans have a reputation for dressing poorly. When we were looking into Spain, we took a close look at our shoes. No one there wears tennis shoes unless they are practicing some sport. I have fewer tennis shoes now. Dress codes are more relaxed in Brazil. When I was living there, everyone wore sweatpants as regular pants. A friend did an internship in Portugal where he was asked why Brazilians dress like they were wearing pajamas. As a matter of fact, it was trendy for a while to wear pajamas when going out. It was women wearing men's pajamas, lol. Since you mentioned the sierra, yes, people in colder climates generally dress better. That's true even in places with hot summers. Come winter, everyone dresses up a tiny bit. Great point, guys! I didn't know about keeping the wrapper on. Good to know.
Many times Drugstores in Ecuador don't tell you about the medicine they don't have and just bill you for what they have instead, and they do it on purpose. Because many times if they don't have all the recipe, customers prefer not to buy anything at all and go to the drugstore where they have everything to minimize number of bills for insurance reimbursement
It can, I wouldn't run a business or work in south america after living in north america. But if you are retired, take all those bs situations as a way to improve your spanish, that is what I do. Other than that, I agree, it would push me into the guy in the watchtower mode
My biggest challenge is to remember to dedicate the time to the greetings. I love it, it is just a huge cultural difference and I'm hoping it becomes more automatic for me.
leaving the plastic on, and stickers on, is common in countries that are not historically prosperous until lately. People would leave the plastic on in hopes that the item would last longer without showing signs of wear and tear. Leaving the price sticker on was a small way of saying I could afford this luxury item. We are Americans in this day and age do not understand this. I remember my grandparents generation leave in plastic on sofas and lampshades. They lived during the great depression. In those days, you did not redecorate your house every 10 years. Your household furnishings lasted for a lifetime.
Yes! The doctors here are more attentive, but completely unprofessional. There is no quality training for doctors here. I don’t trust their diagnoses and treatment protocols.
Just about everything you covered applies to many South American countries. I probably peeled off an acre or two of plastic film off television screens, computer screens, remotes and even furniture, in less than a year. 🤣 To me, it's like popping those air bubble packing sheets or eating cashews; once you start!!! 😅
Very accurate !! I so agree with most of your points. I laughed hard when you mention the "yes-no questions" because I remember the first months in Ecuador it was driving me crazy! LOL
I live in Quito and needed a special type of dental X-ray and went to the place the dentist told me to go to. They told me that that particular X-ray machine wasn't working and wouldn't be fixed for a month. I did need the X-ray that day. I asked them where, nearby, that I could go to and they insisted they didn't know (or rather, they just continued to shake their heads). I had to contact my dentist and there was a place close by that did that special X-ray machine. I don't know why they wouldn't tell me. It's not like I could've waited a month to go back there.
Costa Rica is the same way with the change. I guess it's a way to get more $$? I'd rather not use a credit card because the stores then have to pay the fee but if they won't give change that's what I do. Edited to add --- yup 99% true for all of that in Costa Rica. Formal lines (banks, post office) are rows of chairs and you move from chair to chair until you are in chair #1. This is a good thing given the amount of time you can spend in lines here!
We are Canadians, living for more than 10 years in Costa Rica and, like you, there are still many things that either make us shake our heads or smile gleefully at the culture differences.
They do the sticker thing here too! I've lived in Asia for 10+ years: Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan, and stickers are left on large appliances and even smaller things like water bottles. It's some kind of cultural phenomenon. The also do the the pedestrian blindness thing in these countries: when turning right onto a street they don't look to the left for oncoming traffic - some kind of "not my problem" thing. Especially dangerous when they're on a scooter, all vying for a Darwin award. Same with personal space: the zone is a fraction of what Americans deem appropriate. Still, it beats living in the USA and adds to the adventure quotient so you just move along and don't let it get to you - or book that flight home because you're not cut out for the life of an expat.
The personal bubble thing is true. Now living in the u.s. ive noticed people step back when im talking to them. Ill stop what im doing and get close and people will ask me why im getting so close. 😂😢
We latinos are used to be close to each other and don't consider it rude or invasive. Same thing about kissing each other's cheek, in the sense that it doesn't mean that you're being romantic or looking for a chance with that person. It's just the way we're used to greet a friend or relative. In fact, it could cause us some shock that Americans tend to dodge when somebody invades their bubble by accident.
Spent a month in Loja/Vilcabamba a while back. Like them both, but prefered Loja as there were no expats there, or very few. Friendly people, diet seemed a bit monotonous but if you're a raw vegan, it was heaven, with out-of-this-world produce and cheap, too, at Farmers' Markets. Could live on nothing but papayas and mangoes all day. Heavy police presence in towns and on roadsides. They were always friendly, but you got the sense authorities could get oppressive quickly. Always carry change and small bills. Most shop owners didn't seem well-equipped to make change, and I felt bad putting them out, sometimes the owner would rush next door to see if a fellow merchant had some change. Even banks were reluctant about giving change unless you had an account there. My espanol was minimal, so I enjoyed the challenge of jumping on a city bus and seeing if I could make my way, complete with a few nouns and a lot of arm-waving. Most city blocks had two or three small family-owned cafe-restaurants. Chicken, rice and beans seemed to be staples, pretty cheap too (this was in 2016). A lot of litter, not so much in the towns but on the highways between towns. Guys would walk down streets in Loja, and if there was a convenient bush it wasn't uncommon to see them relieving themselves openly. And the noise. Dogs running free, barking all night, traffic, and horns...got the feeling it wasn't noise to the locals, its just the way it is. Farmers Markets were a treat...and a trip. Not for the faint-hearted. People would get in your face to sell you something and you had to match their energy. Got the feeling some of these folks wouldn't eat at night unless they sold their wares, so you could understand their assertiveness. Never saw any homeless, yet you'd see someone set up a little portable table at a market and maybe sell nothing but lemons, or a few trinkets, so you'd wonder about the daily lives of some of the citizens. Grocery stores were expensive; not so much the produce as I mentioned, but pretty much everything else has to be imported. Only been in Quito on my arrival in country and departure. Too big, crowded, too close to a volcano...minimal time there. Overall, loved the trip and experience.
The "cash based society not having change" is around the world. 😅 I tend to support businesses that make it a priority to have change on hand. To be honest, I think some business owners hope that you will give them the higher amount.
We in Ecuador leave the plastic on new electronic devices because electronics are quite expensive here. It's a way to preserve the investment. It's maybe not a good thing on the long run, but people feel they are taking care of their stuff by doing that.
I really enjoy your videos and insight into life as an expat and the culture of Ecuador. In fact, my family and I took a wonderful vacation to Ecuador and followed several of your exact itineraries in Manta and Quito all spurred from your wonderful videos. I am 59 and have been to over 60 countries and I appreciate your views and respect for other cultures and the positives you highlight in locals' unique lifestyles. However, I found your recent newsletter dissertation regarding the costs of your recent trip to the U.S. as misguided. We have certainly seen a significant increase in prices here, no doubt. I also agree it most affects those on fixed income. However, blaming "parasitic" corporations for the increase in prices is just not accurate. Companies increase prices when their cost to provide services or goods goes up (labor and cost of goods). Companies are not making more profit margin (the stock market has been relatively flat over the last few years). You and Amelia have in fact worked for these "parasitic" companies and enjoy their U.S. level pay in an environment which is a fraction of the cost of the U.S. Great for you and that is smart. But have you ever stayed at a hotel in Ecuador? I regularly spent $100 per night in very average places. Gas there is 80 cents less per gallon (but still a huge amount for an Ecuadorian) but the cost of my rental car exceeded what you paid in the U.S. The cost of a used car, even an old high milage one is much more in Ecuador than the U.S. The average salary in the U.S is 3.6x that of Ecuador (ave. salary in Ecuador is $16,300 per yr.). Do you think that may be why Ecuador is so cheap and so much more expensive here? If you are upset about the inflation here, blame the politicians and those who make monetary policy decisions and set government spending policy. That is what drives inflation per Econ 101. I greatly enjoy traveling and look forward to living abroad one day. I always am positive and complimentary of everyone I meet in the places I visit. But I rarely bash and criticize my own country, no matter that it is not perfect. There is much here that is positive and sometimes you do get what you pay for.
Hi from Puebla, Mexico where we experience some of those same annoying things. Dangerous sidewalks, vomit along with dog do the change problem , giving you coins in return. The street we live on has become Ted Mack Amateur Hour at any time of day or Night. Mostly recorded music blasting while they pretend to play the electric guitar, fiddle, lip sink...etc.....ugh ! The same songs over and over. Flavorless produce from markets...unbelievable. Where to go next ? ❤️
Customer service in Ecuador does have some issues, but I find it better than the US in many ways. One thing I notice happening more and more in the US are hospitality employees that start fights with customers. They argue with them like they are fighting with classmates or siblings. Years ago, you'd be fired on the spot. Not anymore. I've never seen restaurant/hotel staff get rude or disrespectful in Ecuador.
Here a couple of answers from my life in Ecuador that might solve some mysteries (and I am generalizing here and it is certainly not true for everyone): Ecuadorians don't have change in the cashier, because they are advised not to do so. First, they are often not very good in math and calculating or counting in their head, and secondly they are constantly afraid of being robbed. They are very sparse with their answers when you ask them something, because they are not used to think ahead for themselves and others. They often have a "I don't know, and I don't care!" attitude. The service is just not the same as in the US. They don't give you the simple "yes" or 'no" answer and are talking about other things, because they don't want to admit that they don't have the answer.
As a Canadian it sounds like you are describing when I go to the US. Buying gas in the US is always amazing to me that you need to pay in advance and you can't give a cashier a $20 and 10c coin and 5c coin for 19.65 of gas without them staring at it and after a moment giving me a dollar back!!! Its like they can't understand you want two quarters back and not a quarter and a dime.
@@michaelmilne9914 I think, in the US it is more a 'richness' issue. It is a burden in the US to deal with nickels and dimes. If you give a homeless person in the US, and that happened to me personally, a hand full of nickels and dimes, he will throw it away or, if you are unlucky, at you. That would never happen in Ecuador.
It’s because the computerized registers TELL them what amount of change, and they don’t ever have to think. I grew up in the 60s with a mathematical-minded dad who used to quiz me on the way to church… ‘if I owe you $17.32 and give you a 20, count back the change’ 😂 but most folks here can’t do the simplest equations! And it’s worse with computers; these kids can’t even tell time with a clock v digital display, much less subtract in their head.
@@leapintothewild_original Sorry Americans your education system is ranked about 30th in the world. Sure you have the best universities but that is because of the population size of a western country. It is not computers or wealth issue - it is an economy based on cheap illegal immigration. The homeless people throwing coins at you is probably because they can't count to know what they are getting. I once drove a taxi in Toronto, A street beggar flagged me one day - paid all in nickels and dimes. The conversation was about his kids in university and how he winters in Florida. A great hockey player, a millionaire in the time when players were paid little, used to say "look after the nickels and dimes and the dollars will look after themselves."
The first two bullets of yours are describing the US, not Ecuador. Ecuadorians are much better at math IMHO. I bought a burger combo in Houston and paid in cash. It was like $8.76 and I gave him a $20. He stared at me for 15 seconds, then takes out his phone to calculate the change. Look at some Mark Dice videos on TH-cam and you'll see how bright young America is.
So weird...I'm in Oxaca now and was walking down the street and yes, walked by a family on a side street and the father almost smacked into me... I was surprised but ya know...
One thing I quickly learned living outside the US is that in most countries it's considered rude to ask a person you've just met what they do for a living. It's so common in the US but it's really a private question and it shouldn't be asked of a person you barely know. If they offer the information that's fine. But you shouldn't ask it.
Everything you said about people bumping into you and not giving you space is also true about Vietnam. Waiters will walk behind you and bump into your chair over and over again despite having a lot of space to avoid you. The same for noise levels. Stores will play music so loudly that you cannot shop there. If you ask them to turn down the music they say "Up to you" meaning like it or leave. The only difference between Ecuador and Vietnam is that in Ecuador people are polite and Vietnamese are aggressive and rude. The staff in large department stores will make comments about customers' weight or skin color or facial features like a big nose etc. No manners at all. It looks like Ecuador beats Vietnam hands down!
I dated an Italian fellow a few years back. They had a living room covered in plastic. Plastic on the couch, plastic on the light shades and a perfectly vacuumed carpet. I guess I was never considered a guest enough to be able to sit there. Lol
Great list of culture shockers! I always think about the dog poop thing. I’m in Mexico and it drives bonkers. I’m also a light sleeper but invested in some quality noise cancelling earplugs that are comfy to sleep in. I wouldn’t trade my life here for anything. Amelia, you look amazing in orange! You both look vibrant and happy.
@@grouchynorwegian8690 Sure thing. There are many to choose from on Amazon and I got the Ear Plugs for Sleeping Noise Cancelling, Super Soft Reusable Earplugs for Sleep, Noise Sensitivity, Work, Study - 8 Ear Tips in XS, S, M, L with Small Box -25dB Silicon. I wish I could send you a photo here, but it doesn’t allow
I experience the same type of random order of food service at restaurants here in Japan all the time. At some of the nicer upscale restaurants they do bring out food in the proper order. But it’s very common for a main dish to arrive before an appetizer, etc. they just cook everything at once and bring it out when it’s ready. Even at some really nice restaurants with good food. I’m mostly talking about restaurants serving western cuisine, not Japanese dishes. I think it is because the waitstaff are just part time young people who don’t really care, and also because Japanese food tends be brought out to the table all at once, even if there are several different items being eaten. I’ve learned to order one thing at a time. They also do the drink after the meal thing here, but they will bring it out first if you ask them to. Japan does have very good service in most other aspects. It seems they are just not familiar with the western concept of proper table service. On the other hand, there is no tipping in Japan, so that’s nice. I enjoy your videos. It’s always interesting to see how people experience living in a country that is not the one they are from.
It is true that the medical care is fast, professional and human. But I went only to the hospital in Cuenca of course. I hope that the crime problem will be taken care of soon.
I'm in culture shock just going from state to state. Sometimes a Spanish person will take over my space here too. Once I was in Walmart trying to find a certain small piece of equipment for my computer. Of course it was on the bottom shelf next to my feet. So here I am this old lady trying to read the small print on the containers bent over and wobbly. Here come this lady pushes me to the side, gently, and reaches right where I'm at and grabs one of the containers that I was reading. And off she goes. It was like I wasn't even there. I've experienced a lot of invisibility since I've aged though. Funny how people are.
Live in Costa Rica for 11years, after retired in the U.S. Never had culture shock here. That is nothing more then not excepting reality. People say culture shock cause Costa Rica has allot of bad drivers. Reality is the US also have allot of bad drivers. Time for people to live in the real world. My Dad would say "Grow Up".
I've got a shocker for you. It hasn't been long at all that it got dark at 10PM. Today is the first day of, turn your clocks back an hour. Now it's getting dark at 5PM and not long until it's getting dark at 4PM. It's got to be better in Ecuador where the sun sets around 6PM everyday. Ya know a couple years ago the US Senate unanimously voted to end time change. It went to the House of Representatives for the next step to making it law. Couldn't get it done! Sat so long it died. Most people want to end the time changes. More people die and have accidents when the time changes. At least we're past getting shocked at how bad our government is.
Pedestrian blindness. Yeah. Had a guy honking the horn at us from a half block away (and he was facing a stop sign) because we were crossing the street in front of him - a half block away. They don't like to stop at stop signs at all - and god forbid you need to cross the street. Volunteering info. That's another one. Had some dental work done and a surgeon was called in. He never introduced himself and never told me what he was going to do - I woke up and some work was done. Apparently he had to add some stitches, but didn't tell me how many or if they were there. Went back a week later and he started pulling stitches that I didn't know I had. I literally told him if he did it again I was going to punch him in the eye. Then had to ask him his name. The work was stellar, but the "bedside manner" leaves a lot to be desired.
I lived in Cuenca for almost 2 years - 2012 to 2014 and had originally planned on retiring there. I did go back for a 2 month visit later in 2016. I remember clearly being told not to wear expensive earrings because robbers would rip them out of your ears and to also watch your cell phone because they would grab it also. I found the sidewalks were not maintained in good repairs due to holes, wires sticking out, large cracks or it being just very uneven. I made some dear American friends living there and we are still close today.
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Hi Amelia and JP, we love your channel! We're looking to buy our future home in Central or South America in an area that: 1) does not have mosquitoes; 2) has access to regular clean water; and 3) is very walkable. Would Cuenca be a good option? Cultural events would be great, but we don't necessarily need a huge city or "smart" city. I'm guessing cities at a high elevation would be good. We're studying Spanish regularly. Thanks so much for any advice you can give!
Because of your video I moved to Albania one month ago. There are many Americans and other nationalities here. It is beautiful, safe and inexpensive. So, thank you for that.
Great! 🥳
Where in Albania did you move to?
I'm very interested in Albania.
I just left Albania after a year; it's pretty much same culture shocks I experienced there: street noise, fireworks, people walking into each other, trash laying around, not a decent infrastructure yet and be careful on taxi scams, BUT nice n friendly people.
@@tonyn3227 who cares? I wasn't born then.
I've been living in Colombia for 17 years and I can tell you, most of those problems are solved by moving to small town Colombia. We live in a small town about 25 minutes from the Medellin international airport and it's very comfortable with virtually all the conveniences I was accustomed to in the states... But, a whole lot less expensive and less pressure. Great and inexpensive healthcare too. We thought about moving to Ecuador but it just didn't compare.
What city are you in if you don’t mind saying
@@johnross5722 La Ceja
@@DaleAl-lg4ul I guess we can't have everything. 😰
@@DaleAl-lg4ulit’s COLOMBIA, not Columbia. And it’s not in NATO. NATO is the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and Colombia is in South America. 😂
I’m guessing that DaleAl-lg4ul confused Colombia with some European nation that also ends with “ia”.
I'm an Ecuadorian living in NYC basically my whole life and trust me, your culture shocks are MY culture shocks as well. I've also noticed that the staff in shops and stores don't usually like to go "above and beyond" with their customers. They'll help you, but you'll notice they'll give you a little attitude while doing so. This shocked me, as here in the US, customer service staff is usually very polite and helpful, with a few exceptions, and always go the extra mile to help you with your needs.
If you have lived in the U.S. almost your whole life , shouldn’t you be wearing the American jersey instead of Ecuador’s? Also, I would like to ask you something : Is life in Ecuador almost as though as in Venezuela ? The reason I ask is because I often hear about Ecuadorians attempting to enter the U.S. illegally .. and we aren’t talking about “a few” Ecuadorians , we are talking about a ton of them . Something that confuses me because as far as I’m concerned Ecuador is nothing like Venezuela .
Hi Amelia and JP, local Ecuadorian here, about the anecdote Amelia said about waiting in a bakery and the next person standing right behind you when there was enough room I have to tell I do the same and the reason is so that it is clear I'm next in line, otherwise another person could cut in front of me and not everyone is understanding if you explain to them that you were next, I think is most likely the other person would get rude, maybe even throwing expletives, and not move to the end of the line, so that's why, to protect my place in the line. Sorry for the long explanation haha.
I moved to Ecuador with my Ecuadorian husband, to a small mountain town near Latacunga, 6 months ago. I've visited Ecuador 8 times through the years, so I've been aware of the environment. We have a large family here. We recently retired and can't afford to live in the USA. So here we are. We bought land with a small house, and enjoy this peaceful area with a sweeping view of several volcanoes. There's not much to do in our littletown or in Latacunga, the people are only friendly on the surface. You do have to remain vigilant to not overpay for purchases and services. Everyone assumes we are rich and they can get away with overcharging us. Customer service is absent in most transactions and that frustrates me the most. The lack of ascetics in buildings, and shops is depressing. The average restaurant serve unhealthy plates of fried everything with three starchy items and nearly no vegetables. I need a break from all this. But I will share one excellent experience and that has been at the clinic Saint Cecilia in Latacunga. The staff and my surgeon saved my life during a health crisis. The attentive care was overwhelming in the most wonderful way. Something I never experienced in the United States. My surgeon checked on me 3 times a day during my 7 days stay in the hospital. All my follow-up visits have been very attentive and helpful. These events have been the calm in my stormy adjustment to living here.
Beware, however. I just returned from Quito yesterday. During my trip there I was robbed at 12:30 p.m. on a Sunday.
Near Plaza Foch in Mariscal District, I was sprayed with a green mustard-like substance. Immediately, I was confronted by two men who robbed me of my wallet. I lost my driver's license, a debit card, and two credit cards. In total, the thieves attempted to charge nearly $25K against my cards. All of the charges were declined by my bank. Fortunately, I didn't have my Passport in my possession.
The thieves also pushed me against a metal electrical-circuit box, injuring my left knee. I'm currently unable to walk or sit without excruciating pain.
With all due respect to Ecuador, I've traveled around the world to dozens of places. I've never been a victim of violent crime before.
The owner of my hotel contacted the tourist policy. According to the owner, who is bilingual, they declined to take a police report, stating "This happens all the time."
The U.S. Department of State cautions, "Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping. "
Sorry that happened to you, but I was robbed in Mexico and Foster City CA. And someone tried to break into my house in Greenwood Village Colorado. It can happen anywhere.
I’ll stay away from Quito and Guayaquil . I’ve been in Cuenca for two weeks without any problems but I’m cautious.
The green spray was clearly to impede your ability to fight. They wanted you to be disadvantaged. Your attackers are cowards, in addition to being thieves.
An American woman friend of mine lived in Cuenca for years and loved it but moved to Albania because it was getting less safe in Ecuador.
I had friends in Ecuador and they left because is getting very dangerous.
Nunca había pensado lo del suelto.. es verdad!!! Jajaja
I love you guys, thanks for loving my country and making that others get to know a little more about Ecuador! ❤
I feel SAD that you both are leaving Ecuador. Good luck!
Ecuadorian here: I share all of your cultural shock, even as a local. But it’s nice to hear you explain with such respect for my country.
Very interesting video. Some aspects of Ecuadorian culture sound pretty nice. Real friendships aren't all that common the U.S. anymore and there isn't a sense of community it seems. The reason I rarely go to the doctor is if I call for an appointment, it might be a month before they can see me and the way I see it, by then I'll either be over it or dead! It would be nice to be able to see a doctor more quickly. One thing here in the U.S. is many times, one makes an appointment with a doctor and they either get a Physician's Assistant or a Nurse Practitioner. I was in a car accident some years ago and sent to an orthopedist and never even met the man, just saw his 2 PAs. Back when HCJB was on shortwave still, they would have programs about Ecuador that were interesting so I developed a curiosity about the country. Thanks for these great videos telling the world about how it is.
I was in TIA in Cuenca yesterday. A woman reached over me and my basket to grab some oats. She was touching me. I tried to move but she wouldn't. When I came home I realized that she had robbed me. Went back to TIA. Their security camera captured the thief. The TIA lady wouldn't share copy of picture unless I go get the police. I asked her if she can leave the picture with their security to prevent the thief from entering TIA again. She apologized and said that is not possible. So no more TIA for me.
Man, what a sad story . What is sadder is that the lady who works at that supermarket didn’t try to help you. Did she take your money ? How much did she steal from you in total ? Can people tell that you are a “foreigner”?
I’m sorry about what you experienced . Hopefully you will now be more careful whenever you go out.
Well if you want to talk about plastic, here are two New Jersey cliches from the last century:
1) Italian families that got custom-made, fitted, clear plastic covers for their furniture. Couches were mandatory.
2) Lawn fountains. Italian neighborhoods were known for them. There was a retailer on rt 23 called "Fountains of Wayne" that had dozens lined up out front, like a garden of lawn fountains. A NYC rock band in the 90s stole this name as their own. They are best known for the Grammy-nominated song "Stacy's Mom".
Lots of good stories there! In Chile they play "sidewalk Chicken" where they refuse to swerve. I learned to stop and stand still, so they'd be forced to do something. In Portugal, people will walk into you in an open field! And let's not get started about the noise prior to 6 am...
I found Ecuadorians to be exceptionally personable and the costs to be such a relief.
The only negative is the Postal System. Even incoming Courier parcels go into it , not a good thing. Had 3 parcels sent from USA and Europe sent via quick delivery. All took 2 months just to acknowledge arrival and another 6 MONTHS to deliver .. despite repeated confirmations they were holding them.
That’s crazy . So I guess few people in Ecuador but things online ?
On one of our visits to Quito we went to the Museo Nacional del Banco Central del Ecuador. The guide explained to us why it is so hard to get change and why it is always in coins. Ecuador has to buy new paper money from the US. Since paper money wears out they perfer coins to keep the money supply up. Plus there is the additional risk of pick pocketing with cash. That explanation made alot of sense to us.
The "I have no change" deal happened just as much before 1999. It's always been like this in Ecuador.
Don’t people in Ecuador find it odd that they are using American currency ? As an American I would feel strange if we started using the Mexican peso instead of our U.S. dollars .
@@Dah42 No, they embraced the USD 23 years ago. If your currency is losing all its value, you don't miss it.
Great video! I retired to Ajijic, Mexico in January ‘23. The thing I was most warned about was the noise in Mexico. Well, at my house, after 9pm, you can hear a pin drop! One night I heard a mariachi band but it was painfully faint! I’ve always lived in big cities, so I now have to use white noise to fall asleep! 😂 The best culture shock is the treatment of older people. In the states I’ve started to feel invisible. Not here! I even have friends from Guadalajara in their 30’s! All in all, it’s the best shock I’ve had in many years!!! I love it here! ❤
Mexico is the same in a lot of those quirky things. Like Amelia, it blows my mind how most businesses don’t have change! And most don’t take a debit card either yet the ATMs spit out $500’s. They miss out on lots of sales because of that. I know if I try to make a purchase and they don’t have change, I certainly don’t go get change and go back to make my purchase. I go elsewhere and make my purchase. Blows my mind!
All the countries in Latin America are different. Ecuador doesn't have its own currency so they struggled to get change (coins from the US). The same is for Panama. Mexico has its currency which fluctuates a lot because it's widely used in trade transitions especially in Asia and Europe. Yes, while we sleep the equivalent of around $130 Billions USD in Mexican pesos are used to pay for trade among other countries this due to high liquidity of the peso which is the result of Mexican culture where cash is king. Another consequence of the "cash is king" impacts the banking industry in Mexico which struggles to penetrate into more businesses. Mexico is unique and no other country in the Americans has this problem...
I agree. The businesses that don't have change lose my business. I spend a lot less money in some of these cash based societies that have these kind of currency issues. And if some of the businesses accepted credit cards securely, I would spend even more.
In Chile basically everyone, even most street vendors, have a portable card reader and can accept debit and/or credit. Cash is very much on the decline.
I believe most of the businesses are cash only to avoid paying taxes. I’ve had 2 apartment leases since I arrived and both only take cash. People talk about infrastructure and services being poor. The government can’t afford to make things cleaner/better if these businesses don’t pay taxes.
Adding: Nobody likes to pay taxes. I don’t either. Another thing on the same line: have you ever noticed in Mexico how you’ll see a lot of the houses, etc, have rebar still coming up through the roof? Even older builds. I don’t know how true it is, but I’ve been told that they don’t have to pay property taxes until their house or whatever is completed. And as long as they say the house is not complete like they’re going to build another floor, and have that rebar coming up, the build isn’t finished and they don’t have to pay the tax. Weird.
Another great video! My wife of 22 years is from Colombia and when we visit Colombia, SHE has culture-shock. I jokingly call her my Gringa-wife and “explain” Colombia to her and joke with her that if sticks with me, she will learn all kinds of things about Colombia. And yes, it is maddening, and yes they get a lot of things right that we get wrong! Thanks again for sharing your experiences!
Does your wife know how lucky she is ? Lots of Colombian women would love to marry an American man. Please let your wife know how lucky she is.
This was a good one. Here in the US I was at Walmart one day looking at a computer item on the bottom shelf. This involved me bending over to get close enough to see if it was the item I wanted. Then along came a spanish speaking person who got right in front of me and plucked the item and moved on her way. It was like I was invisible. I'm 76 so respect for old people didn't transfer over here. Funny. But I enjoyed hearing the odd things that happen there. Good luck on your next journey.
Love this video so funny the stickers in everything and the karaoke 😆😂 so true! Also the friendship part is huge you care about the person not what he does or has just the friendships. It happened to me too that I would find out why a persons does after a long time! People in Ecuador included the elderly in everything they’re part of the society and not just left behind.
hahahahahahaha, We live here and it is so funny because it is true, I can relate! It is still better than what is going on in the U.S.A. right now, it breaks my heart and makes me so grateful that we are here!!!
The most shocking thing afther 6 years is : Amelia looking 20 years younger than when she arrived 😂❤
Amelia, you can add another benefit: looking younger and more beautiful 💖 by living in Ecuador.
I visited Ecuador last year and met one of my closest friends who decided to move back with her American husband and two little kiddos. Two things caught my immediate attention: she looked amazing, having lost weight and appearing younger. Additionally, she had a babysitter and a cook, luxuries she couldn't afford in the US.
Good luck to both of you!
On a more shallow note: Being a visual person, you two were eye candy today!! The vibrant orange and Amazon greenery was a tropical delight! So I say …. Keep stylin’. I feel it is important to entertain our public with some statement beyond beige and khaki! Again, thanks for letting your color flags fly! 🌈
Great video, thank you. My wife and I moved a year ago to a small Mexican town (no ex-pats here) next to Chapala, Jalisco MX. We love it. None of the cons you mentioned with one big exception, the noise. All night dogs bark, roosters crow and thunder during the rainy season. I want to know how you get the church to wait until 6am to ring the bells and set off fireworks; it starts here sometimes at 5am. It's all Ok. Someone commented they have ear plugs. Years ago, I bought from Sharper Image a "white noise machine". It imitates rain, rivers and my favorite the ocean. It successfully blocks out all the outside noise and I sleep wonderfully without interruption. I have been watching you for years. Quick question, you mentioned you might move back to Cuenca. When you left Cuenca for the coast, you said the elevation bothered you JP. Has your body now adapted to 8,000 foot elevation?
The elevation doesn’t bother me anymore 👍
Not only Ecuadorian do that, but also Americans. Where I work, they bought furniture and had it covered with plastic for more a year . The same thing when they put the carpet on, they had sheets on it.
Old folks make some good points 👍
The volunteering information is so accurate - it has taken me months to get documents confirmed with my employment which could have taken a couple of weeks if the lawyer/employer had just given the right info to start with! It has been the equivalent of eye surgery.
The rest of the list - 100 percent accurate too!
The what's app or only phone calls for super true.
Amelia is right. When we were kids, our parents taught us to walk on the right just like people drive. In most American malls, you see this and it's orderly. You go to the Dolphin mall in Miami or to Sawgrass, and it's chaos. Latins just walk differently and they stroll. Americans walk to get to a place quickly
I have lived in Costa Rica since the late 90. Here you don't dare slam a car door shut the way people are taught in the US. I remember as a kid in the US being scolded by my mom for not slamming the door shut "good and tight." Not here. You will make people really mad.
Haaha ! We lived in CR, and lots of the cars are so "chatarra" (junkers), that slamming the door might make it fall off !
@@belle42 same here !! 😂
HI Amelia /JP i have been watching your channel for over 3 years you guys are great i must tell you i went to Ecuador 51 years ago that happen because i married an Ecuadorean wonderful woman i have gone to Ecuador at least 5 times in those 51 years and i tell you big difference the way the country looks today then it did far back the only pave roads or streets in those days were the big cities after that it was dirt roads from Guayaquil to Duran you had to get on an old ferry to cross the Guayas river but we had great times traveling the old way all those towns that i see on your channel been there they look great now but those were dangerous times because of social change that was going in those days this young president that is in office should bring good change over all hope to meet you guys some time in the future i believe your in the best place in the world it is a healthy natural country to live in the USA use to be like that with all that stress that you confront every day it,s no wonder people die young with all the other crap you live with here well guys stay young and healthy remember Vilcabamba.
I love it here in Ecuador. All the things you mentioned are absolutely true. I'd also mention that Cuencanos have a deep respect for the arts. Classical music is taken seriously here, as is theater, literature and poetry. When I mention that I direct plays for a local theater group, that is treated with respect and curiosity.
The deep, deep DEEP love of futbol is another thing. We never miss a home game for our beloved Deportivo Cuenca, and we've become noted for our demonstrative support and big, furry hats (seriously, they're very big, and very furry.) I've been interviewed on television about being a fervent supporter. This, of course, raised our profile and we made a lot a friends.
Our landlord brought us colada morada and guaguas de pan for Dia de los Difuntos. We were, of course, very pleased and grateful. Next year, we'll be ready to reciprocate!
Love it! Thanks for sharing! Glad you feel so at home in Cuenca! 😊
We flew out of Ecuador to get to the Galapagos Islands. We stayed at the Hilton Hotel back in 2014. I was surprised that even at the Hilton the water was not potable. Bottled water was supplied for drinking and tooth brushing. Otherwise our short stay on the Ecuador mainland was pleasant, The Galapagos tour via Lindblad Expeditions and co-marketed thru National Geographic were EXCELLENT. I've taken other National Geo marketed tours and they were VERY GOOD. The subcontractor for our western tour of National Parks mentioned that our accommodations were upscale compared to the tours normally given by the subcontractor company. @13:50 I had to look hard at the picture of tourists dressed for a safari. It looked like it was taken on the Galapagos. Dressing for a safari fits there. There are daily hikes on various islands and they tended to be HOT and DRY. You are out in the sun for a considerable time and these islands are only about 600 miles from the Equator.
Living in multigenerational households is normal even for Ecuadorians outside of Ecuador. We had four generations living under one roof until my grandma passed away at 93.
I feel you guys. I've been living in the U.S.A for the last five years and still go through a cultural shock every time I flight to my country.That moment alone condensses all you've mentioned throughout your video. People are very rude, disrespectful, etc. It's really disappointing for me because I remember different people while growing up in the same country. You guys deserve all respect. You pointed out these situations and still have a smile in your facee regardless the annoyance.
100% agreement on the stickers, unbelievable it literally obscures the screen and they don't care!
Just got back from my exploratory visit to Cuenca, and "they don't volunteer information" is the one thing I saw repeatedly. My attorney told me to "stop by" the following day at 3pm and sign a document. So I did. She didn't have the document produced, 20 minutes later it had been created, she said "can you walk?" I said, yes, and we walked nearly a mile to a public notary office, where I was told "have a seat this usually takes an hour or two, and they'll call your name when it's your turn". It was mind blowing.
6 yrs. went fast, glad you've done so well
One thing you left out are sidewalk hazards, especially once you leave the main Avenida, even in nice suburbs. This can range from random metal studs sticking up, to dangerously uneven cracks, and even holes big enough to injure you. Quidado!
So many hazards on the sidewalks!
In a culture where new is not as common an option, a plastic covering reminder of when something was new feels good.
Wondering if it is an exaggeration to worry that Equador is falling apart after today's TV insurrection. Hope they can get control of their country again.
So funny about the invasion of personal space! It actually happened to me in the US yesterday at the post office. I told the lady, “ You are right on top of me.” No response. Customer service, in stores and restaurants here, is also dismal. It won’t be that big of a culture shock when I get to Cuenca this fall. At least I won’t expect to walk through a cloud of cigarette smoke to get in a business, which was a pleasant surprise when I was there last fall. Luv, luv, luv your Euro travel videos!
I'd be clandestinely peeling packaging materials off of everything I see.
I have a friend who spent more for the plastic to cover their furniture then they did for the living room set!!!
Coming to Loja ranked number 2 in the world for the best weather. I hate the cold and utility bills.
Minnie Pearl kept the price tag on her hat, after all.
As a native Tennessean, I got a good chuckle! 😂❤
Minnie Pearl! Wow that takes me back...
Ecuadorian businesses haven't had change since my family arrived there in the mid 70s!!! They treat it like they are worth their weight in gold and won't depart from it if they can. 😅😅😅
As an interpreter, I always tell my clients to answer the question first and tell the story later. Many Latin people tell you the story first and the answer at the end. Lol.
I bump into people all the time. I wonder if it's from growing up in Quito. I like to say that I'm attracted to the gravity of other people's bodies. 😅😅😅
Dress-code-wise, I'm sorry to inform you that Americans have a reputation for dressing poorly. When we were looking into Spain, we took a close look at our shoes. No one there wears tennis shoes unless they are practicing some sport. I have fewer tennis shoes now. Dress codes are more relaxed in Brazil. When I was living there, everyone wore sweatpants as regular pants. A friend did an internship in Portugal where he was asked why Brazilians dress like they were wearing pajamas. As a matter of fact, it was trendy for a while to wear pajamas when going out. It was women wearing men's pajamas, lol. Since you mentioned the sierra, yes, people in colder climates generally dress better. That's true even in places with hot summers. Come winter, everyone dresses up a tiny bit.
Great point, guys! I didn't know about keeping the wrapper on. Good to know.
Welcome to my neck of the woods. Just two years old. I hope you guys are doing OK and still enjoying the country. If your still there .
Many times Drugstores in Ecuador don't tell you about the medicine they don't have and just bill you for what they have instead, and they do it on purpose. Because many times if they don't have all the recipe, customers prefer not to buy anything at all and go to the drugstore where they have everything to minimize number of bills for insurance reimbursement
Yes, sounds like the culture there would drive me mental.
It can, I wouldn't run a business or work in south america after living in north america. But if you are retired, take all those bs situations as a way to improve your spanish, that is what I do. Other than that, I agree, it would push me into the guy in the watchtower mode
Another very helpful video. If the toughest part of getting used to the Ecuadorian culture is plastic covers and price tags, I'll deal with it.
My biggest challenge is to remember to dedicate the time to the greetings. I love it, it is just a huge cultural difference and I'm hoping it becomes more automatic for me.
leaving the plastic on, and stickers on, is common in countries that are not historically prosperous until lately. People would leave the plastic on in hopes that the item would last longer without showing signs of wear and tear. Leaving the price sticker on was a small way of saying I could afford this luxury item. We are Americans in this day and age do not understand this. I remember my grandparents generation leave in plastic on sofas and lampshades. They lived during the great depression. In those days, you did not redecorate your house every 10 years. Your household furnishings lasted for a lifetime.
Yes! The doctors here are more attentive, but completely unprofessional. There is no quality training for doctors here. I don’t trust their diagnoses and treatment protocols.
Love your videos.
Ecuador is unique, with pros and cons.
you two always look like you are in love and having fun ❤
Amelia and JP :
Tks. much.
So many of those annoyances, especially ignorance, would be a dealbreaker for me. 8 years in Vietnam and Thailand, overall happier here.
Just about everything you covered applies to many South American countries. I probably peeled off an acre or two of plastic film off television screens, computer screens, remotes and even furniture, in less than a year. 🤣 To me, it's like popping those air bubble packing sheets or eating cashews; once you start!!! 😅
Very accurate !! I so agree with most of your points. I laughed hard when you mention the "yes-no questions" because I remember the first months in Ecuador it was driving me crazy! LOL
I live in Quito and needed a special type of dental X-ray and went to the place the dentist told me to go to. They told me that that particular X-ray machine wasn't working and wouldn't be fixed for a month. I did need the X-ray that day. I asked them where, nearby, that I could go to and they insisted they didn't know (or rather, they just continued to shake their heads). I had to contact my dentist and there was a place close by that did that special X-ray machine. I don't know why they wouldn't tell me. It's not like I could've waited a month to go back there.
Costa Rica is the same way with the change. I guess it's a way to get more $$? I'd rather not use a credit card because the stores then have to pay the fee but if they won't give change that's what I do. Edited to add --- yup 99% true for all of that in Costa Rica. Formal lines (banks, post office) are rows of chairs and you move from chair to chair until you are in chair #1. This is a good thing given the amount of time you can spend in lines here!
Ecuadorian in the U.S. Subscribed 🙌🏼💖
You guys always look amazing. I thank you for that as for us it’s a sign of respect. ❤
We are Canadians, living for more than 10 years in Costa Rica and, like you, there are still many things that either make us shake our heads or smile gleefully at the culture differences.
Why are you guys in Costa Rica? Were you living there during COVID pandemic ? Don’t you guys miss your beautiful country ?
We were here in Costa Rica through the Covid pandemic. Canada is certainly beautiful, but a lack of snow appealled to us greatly.
😂😂😂 it is halurious to hear how people walk into each other ...
They do the sticker thing here too! I've lived in Asia for 10+ years: Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan, and stickers are left on large appliances and even smaller things like water bottles. It's some kind of cultural phenomenon. The also do the the pedestrian blindness thing in these countries: when turning right onto a street they don't look to the left for oncoming traffic - some kind of "not my problem" thing. Especially dangerous when they're on a scooter, all vying for a Darwin award. Same with personal space: the zone is a fraction of what Americans deem appropriate. Still, it beats living in the USA and adds to the adventure quotient so you just move along and don't let it get to you - or book that flight home because you're not cut out for the life of an expat.
Based on everything you wrote , it surprised me that you said “still, it beats living in the U.S.A.
Thank you for the wonderful videos about Cuenca.I love it here.
The plague of Latin culture, same in the Philippines; so it's transcontinental. Much happier now in Kuala Lumpur.
A big yes but I have grown accustomed to this kind of behavior and still love these people.
The personal bubble thing is true. Now living in the u.s. ive noticed people step back when im talking to them. Ill stop what im doing and get close and people will ask me why im getting so close. 😂😢
We latinos are used to be close to each other and don't consider it rude or invasive. Same thing about kissing each other's cheek, in the sense that it doesn't mean that you're being romantic or looking for a chance with that person. It's just the way we're used to greet a friend or relative. In fact, it could cause us some shock that Americans tend to dodge when somebody invades their bubble by accident.
@@jcrivera24 plena, asi me ha pasado
Spent a month in Loja/Vilcabamba a while back. Like them both, but prefered Loja as there were no expats there, or very few. Friendly people, diet seemed a bit monotonous but if you're a raw vegan, it was heaven, with out-of-this-world produce and cheap, too, at Farmers' Markets. Could live on nothing but papayas and mangoes all day. Heavy police presence in towns and on roadsides. They were always friendly, but you got the sense authorities could get oppressive quickly. Always carry change and small bills. Most shop owners didn't seem well-equipped to make change, and I felt bad putting them out, sometimes the owner would rush next door to see if a fellow merchant had some change. Even banks were reluctant about giving change unless you had an account there. My espanol was minimal, so I enjoyed the challenge of jumping on a city bus and seeing if I could make my way, complete with a few nouns and a lot of arm-waving. Most city blocks had two or three small family-owned cafe-restaurants. Chicken, rice and beans seemed to be staples, pretty cheap too (this was in 2016). A lot of litter, not so much in the towns but on the highways between towns. Guys would walk down streets in Loja, and if there was a convenient bush it wasn't uncommon to see them relieving themselves openly. And the noise. Dogs running free, barking all night, traffic, and horns...got the feeling it wasn't noise to the locals, its just the way it is. Farmers Markets were a treat...and a trip. Not for the faint-hearted. People would get in your face to sell you something and you had to match their energy. Got the feeling some of these folks wouldn't eat at night unless they sold their wares, so you could understand their assertiveness. Never saw any homeless, yet you'd see someone set up a little portable table at a market and maybe sell nothing but lemons, or a few trinkets, so you'd wonder about the daily lives of some of the citizens. Grocery stores were expensive; not so much the produce as I mentioned, but pretty much everything else has to be imported.
Only been in Quito on my arrival in country and departure. Too big, crowded, too close to a volcano...minimal time there. Overall, loved the trip and experience.
You’re cracking us up! 😂
The "cash based society not having change" is around the world. 😅 I tend to support businesses that make it a priority to have change on hand. To be honest, I think some business owners hope that you will give them the higher amount.
We in Ecuador leave the plastic on new electronic devices because electronics are quite expensive here. It's a way to preserve the investment. It's maybe not a good thing on the long run, but people feel they are taking care of their stuff by doing that.
I really enjoy your videos and insight into life as an expat and the culture of Ecuador. In fact, my family and I took a wonderful vacation to Ecuador and followed several of your exact itineraries in Manta and Quito all spurred from your wonderful videos. I am 59 and have been to over 60 countries and I appreciate your views and respect for other cultures and the positives you highlight in locals' unique lifestyles.
However, I found your recent newsletter dissertation regarding the costs of your recent trip to the U.S. as misguided. We have certainly seen a significant increase in prices here, no doubt. I also agree it most affects those on fixed income. However, blaming "parasitic" corporations for the increase in prices is just not accurate. Companies increase prices when their cost to provide services or goods goes up (labor and cost of goods). Companies are not making more profit margin (the stock market has been relatively flat over the last few years). You and Amelia have in fact worked for these "parasitic" companies and enjoy their U.S. level pay in an environment which is a fraction of the cost of the U.S. Great for you and that is smart.
But have you ever stayed at a hotel in Ecuador? I regularly spent $100 per night in very average places. Gas there is 80 cents less per gallon (but still a huge amount for an Ecuadorian) but the cost of my rental car exceeded what you paid in the U.S. The cost of a used car, even an old high milage one is much more in Ecuador than the U.S. The average salary in the U.S is 3.6x that of Ecuador (ave. salary in Ecuador is $16,300 per yr.). Do you think that may be why Ecuador is so cheap and so much more expensive here? If you are upset about the inflation here, blame the politicians and those who make monetary policy decisions and set government spending policy. That is what drives inflation per Econ 101.
I greatly enjoy traveling and look forward to living abroad one day. I always am positive and complimentary of everyone I meet in the places I visit. But I rarely bash and criticize my own country, no matter that it is not perfect. There is much here that is positive and sometimes you do get what you pay for.
Maybe bashing the US is part of their strategy to attract followers.
Hi from Puebla, Mexico where we experience some of those same annoying things. Dangerous sidewalks, vomit along with dog do
the change problem , giving you coins in return. The street we live on has become Ted Mack Amateur Hour at any time of day or
Night. Mostly recorded music blasting while they pretend to play the electric guitar, fiddle, lip sink...etc.....ugh ! The same songs
over and over. Flavorless produce from markets...unbelievable. Where to go next ? ❤️
Customer service in Ecuador does have some issues, but I find it better than the US in many ways. One thing I notice happening more and more in the US are hospitality employees that start fights with customers. They argue with them like they are fighting with classmates or siblings. Years ago, you'd be fired on the spot. Not anymore. I've never seen restaurant/hotel staff get rude or disrespectful in Ecuador.
Here a couple of answers from my life in Ecuador that might solve some mysteries (and I am generalizing here and it is certainly not true for everyone):
Ecuadorians don't have change in the cashier, because they are advised not to do so. First, they are often not very good in math and calculating or counting in their head, and secondly they are constantly afraid of being robbed.
They are very sparse with their answers when you ask them something, because they are not used to think ahead for themselves and others. They often have a "I don't know, and I don't care!" attitude. The service is just not the same as in the US.
They don't give you the simple "yes" or 'no" answer and are talking about other things, because they don't want to admit that they don't have the answer.
As a Canadian it sounds like you are describing when I go to the US. Buying gas in the US is always amazing to me that you need to pay in advance and you can't give a cashier a $20 and 10c coin and 5c coin for 19.65 of gas without them staring at it and after a moment giving me a dollar back!!! Its like they can't understand you want two quarters back and not a quarter and a dime.
@@michaelmilne9914 I think, in the US it is more a 'richness' issue. It is a burden in the US to deal with nickels and dimes. If you give a homeless person in the US, and that happened to me personally, a hand full of nickels and dimes, he will throw it away or, if you are unlucky, at you. That would never happen in Ecuador.
It’s because the computerized registers TELL them what amount of change, and they don’t ever have to think. I grew up in the 60s with a mathematical-minded dad who used to quiz me on the way to church… ‘if I owe you $17.32 and give you a 20, count back the change’ 😂 but most folks here can’t do the simplest equations! And it’s worse with computers; these kids can’t even tell time with a clock v digital display, much less subtract in their head.
@@leapintothewild_original Sorry Americans your education system is ranked about 30th in the world. Sure you have the best universities but that is because of the population size of a western country. It is not computers or wealth issue - it is an economy based on cheap illegal immigration. The homeless people throwing coins at you is probably because they can't count to know what they are getting. I once drove a taxi in Toronto, A street beggar flagged me one day - paid all in nickels and dimes. The conversation was about his kids in university and how he winters in Florida. A great hockey player, a millionaire in the time when players were paid little, used to say "look after the nickels and dimes and the dollars will look after themselves."
The first two bullets of yours are describing the US, not Ecuador. Ecuadorians are much better at math IMHO. I bought a burger combo in Houston and paid in cash. It was like $8.76 and I gave him a $20. He stared at me for 15 seconds, then takes out his phone to calculate the change. Look at some Mark Dice videos on TH-cam and you'll see how bright young America is.
Much to your credit, you two are ever reliably fun while providing a wealth of information. Always a pleasure.
So weird...I'm in Oxaca now and was walking down the street and yes, walked by a family on a side street and the father almost smacked into me... I was surprised but ya know...
One thing I quickly learned living outside the US is that in most countries it's considered rude to ask a person you've just met what they do for a living.
It's so common in the US but it's really a private question and it shouldn't be asked of a person you barely know. If they offer the information that's fine. But you shouldn't ask it.
Haha that is hysterical. Why would anyone leave those stickers on?! 😂 there has to be a logical explanation.
The stickers and price tags drive me crazy!
😂 I have a good friend in Oregon that leaves product stickers on everything.
This is one of my pet peeves, too!
As an ecuadorian, I would say that we do that to protect the screens/gadgets that we use
So when you sell it, it still looks new.
Everything you said about people bumping into you and not giving you space is also true about Vietnam. Waiters will walk behind you and bump into your chair over and over again despite having a lot of space to avoid you. The same for noise levels. Stores will play music so loudly that you cannot shop there. If you ask them to turn down the music they say "Up to you" meaning like it or leave. The only difference between Ecuador and Vietnam is that in Ecuador people are polite and Vietnamese are aggressive and rude. The staff in large department stores will make comments about customers' weight or skin color or facial features like a big nose etc. No manners at all. It looks like Ecuador beats Vietnam hands down!
I dated an Italian fellow a few years back. They had a living room covered in plastic. Plastic on the couch, plastic on the light shades and a perfectly vacuumed carpet. I guess I was never considered a guest enough to be able to sit there. Lol
Great list of culture shockers! I always think about the dog poop thing. I’m in Mexico and it drives bonkers. I’m also a light sleeper but invested in some quality noise cancelling earplugs that are comfy to sleep in.
I wouldn’t trade my life here for anything.
Amelia, you look amazing in orange! You both look vibrant and happy.
Care to share which noise canceling earplug? Thanks in advance
@@grouchynorwegian8690 Sure thing. There are many to choose from on Amazon and I got the Ear Plugs for Sleeping Noise Cancelling, Super Soft Reusable Earplugs for Sleep, Noise Sensitivity, Work, Study - 8 Ear Tips in XS, S, M, L with Small Box -25dB Silicon.
I wish I could send you a photo here, but it doesn’t allow
Yeah, we need to know about those earplugs.
I loved seeing the Zumba in the plazas in Cuenca. It was a surprise to see people assembling in the evening for workout - in various types of clothes.
I experience the same type of random order of food service at restaurants here in Japan all the time. At some of the nicer upscale restaurants they do bring out food in the proper order. But it’s very common for a main dish to arrive before an appetizer, etc. they just cook everything at once and bring it out when it’s ready. Even at some really nice restaurants with good food. I’m mostly talking about restaurants serving western cuisine, not Japanese dishes. I think it is because the waitstaff are just part time young people who don’t really care, and also because Japanese food tends be brought out to the table all at once, even if there are several different items being eaten. I’ve learned to order one thing at a time.
They also do the drink after the meal thing here, but they will bring it out first if you ask them to.
Japan does have very good service in most other aspects. It seems they are just not familiar with the western concept of proper table service. On the other hand, there is no tipping in Japan, so that’s nice.
I enjoy your videos. It’s always interesting to see how people experience living in a country that is not the one they are from.
It is true that the medical care is fast, professional and human. But I went only to the hospital in Cuenca of course. I hope that the crime problem will be taken care of soon.
I'm in culture shock just going from state to state. Sometimes a Spanish person will take over my space here too. Once I was in Walmart trying to find a certain small piece of equipment for my computer. Of course it was on the bottom shelf next to my feet. So here I am this old lady trying to read the small print on the containers bent over and wobbly. Here come this lady pushes me to the side, gently, and reaches right where I'm at and grabs one of the containers that I was reading. And off she goes. It was like I wasn't even there. I've experienced a lot of invisibility since I've aged though. Funny how people are.
Gracias...practico mi Inglés con ustedes...
maybe a little more expensive, but glad I decided on Porto, Portugal
Thanks!
Thank you!
Live in Costa Rica for 11years, after retired in the U.S. Never had culture shock here. That is nothing more then not excepting reality. People say culture shock cause Costa Rica has allot of bad drivers. Reality is the US also have allot of bad drivers. Time for people to live in the real world. My Dad would say "Grow Up".
Yes the no change thing is weird. Also you pay afterward here, even at hotels. They must trust people...
Very interesting indeed ! Half a bag 😊 of nickels . Best wishes .
Very interesting, thank you
I've got a shocker for you. It hasn't been long at all that it got dark at 10PM. Today is the first day of, turn your clocks back an hour. Now it's getting dark at 5PM and not long until it's getting dark at 4PM. It's got to be better in Ecuador where the sun sets around 6PM everyday. Ya know a couple years ago the US Senate unanimously voted to end time change. It went to the House of Representatives for the next step to making it law. Couldn't get it done! Sat so long it died. Most people want to end the time changes. More people die and have accidents when the time changes. At least we're past getting shocked at how bad our government is.
Thanks for the laugh! Most common item where the brand name stickers are left on is the toilet tank. 😆
Pedestrian blindness. Yeah. Had a guy honking the horn at us from a half block away (and he was facing a stop sign) because we were crossing the street in front of him - a half block away. They don't like to stop at stop signs at all - and god forbid you need to cross the street.
Volunteering info. That's another one. Had some dental work done and a surgeon was called in. He never introduced himself and never told me what he was going to do - I woke up and some work was done. Apparently he had to add some stitches, but didn't tell me how many or if they were there. Went back a week later and he started pulling stitches that I didn't know I had. I literally told him if he did it again I was going to punch him in the eye. Then had to ask him his name. The work was stellar, but the "bedside manner" leaves a lot to be desired.
I lived in Cuenca for almost 2 years - 2012 to 2014 and had originally planned on retiring there. I did go back for a 2 month visit later in 2016. I remember clearly being told not to wear expensive earrings because robbers would rip them out of your ears and to also watch your cell phone because they would grab it also. I found the sidewalks were not maintained in good repairs due to holes, wires sticking out, large cracks or it being just very uneven. I made some dear American friends living there and we are still close today.
Where did u end up retiring ?
It’s so sad when thieves and criminals don’t even respect women.