Clearing Up Misconceptions about anti-gringo sentiment | Shopping in Ecuador with Tiendamia.com

Clearning up misconceptions about anti-gringo sentiment in Ecuador | Shopping in Ecuador with Tiendamia
In this video, I address an important issue from my previous upload, where I compared the sentiment towards expatriates in Mexico and Ecuador. After receiving feedback, I realized my mistake and took the video down. I want to make it clear that, in my experience, there's no widespread anti-Gringo sentiment in Ecuador. The people here are humble, polite, and kind, with a great sense of humor. While there may be occasional exceptions, they are rare and no different from what one might encounter in any country. I apologize to those affected and hope this video sets the record straight about the warm and welcoming nature of Ecuadorians.
Additionally, I share my recent experience with online shopping in Ecuador. I recently bought a Fossil watch through Tiendamia, an Amazon partner here in Ecuador, and received it within six days. I explain the process of ordering from Amazon and Tiendamia, the delivery times, and the cost involved. Watch as I unbox my new purchase and talk about the benefits of using PayPal for secure transactions. If you're considering shopping online while living in Ecuador, this video provides useful insights and tips.
Links to know:
Tiendamia - www.tiendamia.com/ec/
Facebook - Manta and Manabi Expats and Amigos - / 323275021650751
My Channel Video Index - docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
My Google Docs document of useful information
docs.google.com/document/d/1A...
Document Links
My Checklist for migration - docs.google.com/document/d/1U...
Remember this folks.
A country might look good on paper, or on a KZbin video, but what about the “Chemistry” between you, the individual and the country and culture as a whole?
This is something we can’t know in advance. We can only make our move, dive in and test the waters…….and see how it goes.
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The views expressed in this video are in no way intended to be taken as advice on retirement, migrating to Ecuador, investing, buying insurance, or getting your immigration documentation.
I am not responsible for any decision you make after watching my videos.
I don't give advice and I don't recommend anything unless it is based on my own personal, verifiable experience.
#ExpatLifeEcuador
#OnlineShoppingEcuador
#LivingInEcuador
I want to be sure that the information I provide is accurate information and I don't want people to make a poor choice based on anything I say.
If one person comes here based on my influence and doesn't like it at all, then has to return to start all over again, I have failed.

[@gford9988]

Don your opening statement is one of the reasons I follow your channel. You are a caring person and try to do the right thing. That is about most we can ask of anyone.

[@JVDAfghan]

After four years in Mexico, two in Colombia, and now just about two in Ecuador, I have not experienced any anti gringo sentiment from the natives, but some from a few Canadians here and in Mexico. When I lived in Vancouver, nothing negative at all-they were pretty much just dissing the French and had nothing left for me, I guess. I use Tiendamia often. No problems.

[@elizabethkeith7283]

You can't make everyone happy. Some people are puckered at both ends. Nothing can be done about people addicted to disapproval. They aim it at anyone who is happier than they intend to be. Don't let them control you. Just be your delightful self.

[@DJarry394]

I don't plan on moving to ECU, but your videos are fascinating

[@eridink]

Aww man, I'm going to miss your 'bite me' sign off. People ruin all the fun!!

[@mrfish1051]

In all South America's Countries ( not Mexico ) the feeling and sentiment is pro-gringo. Loving gringos and foreigners from All over the World. Welcoming and Friendly. Some very few mexicans are anti-gringo due to new nationatism promoted by LopezO. Same group of mexicans sometimes express derogatory comments against South American countries, too.

[@johnhamlett8414]

I think you're right about the differences. The degree of nationalism is a determining factor in sentiment regarding people from other cultures/nations. Except when it comes to football/soccer.

[@Resmith18SR]

I've been living here in Mexico for decades and I've never really run into any anti foreigner or gringo sentiment. After living in here in a fairly large city I can honestly say that the Mexicans I have met are friendly, gracious, and curious about American culture and language.

[@mrfish1051]

LopezO is promoting propaganda for brainwashing youngest mexicans. The problem Ecuador-Mexico was caused by this guy. He blatantly intervened in Ecuador's internal affairs. The ideological concept behind 'Patria Grande' . Where all Latin Countries must be part of a supra national government. As a sort of Federation, losing their independences. Followers of Patria Grande are leftwing. And they think have the right to intervene in internal affairs.

[@michaelbrown641]

I approve. Nice ending. Can I have your old watch? 😲 Stayed at OroVerde last week. That mall is very nice. My gf bought loads of clothes. Didn’t even have enough time to use the swimming pool. I like Manta.

[@stangatev7151]

I applaud you and respect you for posting this follow up to your previous video!

[@debrareynolds9067]

Can you fill your empty luggage while visiting the area with Amazon goodies

[@Matt-ty6pq]

Don with that camera and mike set up you could easily be the Ecuador evening news weather report from Manta. You dont like it? BITE ME Don't change for them they will always find something to complain about.

[@captainmorgan7809]

I've visited Ecuador many times since the late 90s and every visit is always better than the last. My last visit was just before the 2020 pandemic. IMHO the Ecuadorian people are warm, happy, and welcoming and I've always felt appreciated😉

[@whacked00]

Hey Don... Bite me! said with peace and friendship..

[@msbeecee1]

I understand the humor of Bite Me comment. But if I'm being honest, it does sting a little to hear it, after having enjoyed an entire video, to feel insulted even if i know its not aimed at me

[@mrnice1976]

Usually, your sensitivities are the issue. Americans walk on eggshells not to offend anyone with their speech, even make it a legal issue. In most of the world, you will be insulted in everyday situations with anything that stereotypes your person, for example in traffic. Then the next day those same people can sit with you and laugh about it. I have been to both, Ecuador and Mexico, and I felt welcome in both. That doesn't mean I haven't heard the occasional "pinche gringo". It's a more extroverted way of dealing with basic frustrations. In America, you keep it all inside, smile, and then every 4 years you take all of that into the voting booth ;)

[@neosan82]

You seem to be evolving, speaking Spanish now and changing the words you use to end your videos to be less grumpy. Some day you will realize Ecuador is truly a paradise. Meanwhile buy Stella some flowers.

[@waynewhite2314]

Bite mw. Lol. The grumpy is earned and not overdone. Even charming.

[@tomg1247]

I don't know--are yapas a thing in Manta as they are here in Cuenca? We support the same vendors at the mercado week to week and in a reverse of being gringo'ed, they always throw in a yapa or two--that little bit extra. We don't even buy that much but their kindness and generosity are always present. Amor por Cuenca!

[@w8lvradio]

What about AliExpress?

[@Robertsdogs]

I've always enjoyed the "bite me, and I say that with peace and love" But will adapt!

[@juligrlee556]

I'm heading to Caribbean shores of Columbia. I need splashable warm waters.

[@msbeecee1]

Are u saying the water in Ecuador is not swimmable? I'm just curious & confused abt ur statement, not trying to argue. I've heard great stuff abt Colombia, too. It's my 2nd choice to Ecuador

[@whosebonesaresharp]

What!!!? No more bite me?? That was funny and anyone giving you pushback on it needs to ... well .... bite me - with love, peace and unicorns. The scene of the AC compressors was nightmarish and almost as frightening as some electric power poles I have seen that are filled beyond comprehension. Ecuador is a certainly different beast but it is also a wonderful place too. I have a feeling that if all the chaotic things were solved that it would somehow lose some character and become just another place slowly colonized by foreign capital.

[@pascalguerandel8181]

You got my attention 😂❤

[@FightFilms]

Of course there is an anti-gringo sentiment in Ecuador and some of it is deserved. But it's not very prevalent and most Ecuadorians do realize the benefit of foreign investment.

[@tmcdon]

Don! Great to see you! Someday, gonna get to meet you!

[@mdwoods100]

Still have plans on coming to Ecuador in 2025. Put in my passport application this morning.

[@DonShader]

Good for you! Let me know if you need any help with anything.

[@scottjones9603]

You always talk about shipping and handling. Are you not a Prime member? Or is this an additional charge because prime pays for itself if you order just once a month or so. It can save you massively if you buy often

[@DonShader]

No! Prime membership from Amazon is worthless in Ecuador. I order two, maybe three times a year.

[@user-zo6dk5fb4y]

You are very informative and i subscribe for your talks. Keep up the good work. Thanks

[@DonShader]

Awesome, thank you!

[@nancyramsden4130]

Hi Don, thumbs up to you - good judgment call, good save and good new video today. ✴😄

[@greenacresKingFamilyAdventues]

I am going to check it out been here just over 2 yrs only buy local except ordering from a few places in Quito

[@dianamayfield5615]

The main reason I love Ecuador - Most of the people are kind, generous, and loving. Yes, there are problems, but life is not perfect. Actually, I've found those problems are minor when compared head-to-head with the issues in the US. I'll take the Ecuador problems any day! Though I always do a thumbs up, sometimes I hesitate just a bit! LOL, so instead of Bite Me, you can say, Nibble! Not quite as confrontational!

[@emese956]

Don…I think you should change your title to: Don Shader - Delightful Old Gringo…..Whichever subject you talk about it is always one way or other, interesting to many…..As for life in Ecuador, I declare: Long Live Ecuador !! 🌎🇪🇨

[@gillesbelanger1090]

Grumpy is an act, he's a kind person. I like him very much

[@tomsaxton970]

You got your order much quicker than I ever have. Maybe because there is an airport in Manta. Riobamba only has a military airport. My record was 10 days. Usually, it's 15. Nice video, thx!

[@joann5157]

Ah Don. I'll miss the BITE ME said with peace and love........and a smile at the end.

[@richieyyz]

You’re not saying bite me anymore? Well then bite me ! 😅

[@billkipper3264]

When I was in Ecuador last fall I found the people to be nothing but friendly and kind. They are the country's best asset. As for the people that don't like the way you have ended your videos all I can say to them is "Bite me". Don't change Don just for those few miserable bastards that whose only joy is to make others miserable.

[@kilo2bravo007]

A kinder, gentler, Grumpy Old Gringo......who knew?

[@julioalvear1641]

I can't believe you threw the clear plastic out into the air and polluted the environment.

[@DonShader]

Actually, I picked it up and took it to the recycle bin downstairs.

[@Michael-iw3ek]

Just remember, bands are probably mariachi bands. Haven't you watched "Desperado" with Antonio Banderas? Everyone knows mariachi can be deadly.

[@tykellerman6384]

Hey Don people need to get a sense of humour and quit whining 🤠👍

[@johnhamlett8414]

Having lived in both Manta, ECU (4th flr of the same building Don is in) and different towns in Chile the cultures are family-centric. I would say both countries peoples are very indifferent to "gringos." In the US we are often critical on non-US cultures, my experience in those parts of South America they just don't care much about people from outside of South American countries. Ecuadorians don't seem to like Venezuelan's much at all, and the more tribal Ecuadorian's up in Cotacotchi or Otovalo don't seem to like anyone not a native. Fascinating btw, anyone going to Ecuador should make a side trip to either of those cities. The natives are very clear, they're usually dressed up very nice. Black clothing with lots of colorful embroidery, and I don't think any of them are over 5 feet tall. I had some really fun/good interactions with several of them. However, when living in ECU nearly all the non-US friends I made were Columbian or Venezuelan, even Nigerian, but it was pretty rare to strike up a conversation with an Ecuadorian (and Chilian's when living in Chile). I think it's because they have very strong family bonds and don't really try to go outside their circle. Was at one of the better restaurants in Ecuador and it was clear there were two different family units that would eventually be bound by the couple they were waiting for. Neither family group mingled or even talked to the other family until the two young people showed up, then there were introductions and cross family discussions. I'm not a sociologist but this was one of the better examples of how Ecuador operates as a society. Also, say your dad is an auto mechanic, it means you'll most likely be an auto mechanic, probably working at the family shop with your dad and uncles, and your kids will also one day probably work there with their cousins...

[@mrfish1051]

Did you mean that being shy as chilean and not being talkative like ecuatorians means not being friendly or rude ? I am asking because your experience is same as mine while traveling , but my interpretation is they have different ways of friendliness

[@johnhamlett8414]

@@mrfish1051 I don't think they're rude at all, but they're usually not going to make the "first move" to talk to you. It's not that they can't be friendly, it just takes them awhile to "warm up" to you. I wasn't treated any different, clearly from the US or Canada, than they'd treat another Chilean or Ecuadorian that they don't know. Also yes, Chilean's seem quieter than Ecuadorian. Eucadorians seem to contrast Columbian's btw, weird they're so close geographically. Can't tell you how many Columbian's were like "pull up a chair, lets talk at length about XY and Z."

[@mrfish1051]

Valparaiso , Callao and Guayaquil ports were interconnected since Viceroy during hundreds of year. Ecuador + Peru + Chile have similarities, courteus and somehow shy and introvert. Colombia and Venezuela are extrovert . Argentinians are the most easy to strike-a-conversation probably because of italian european influence. They all are friendly .

[@dimensiondimensiones2938]

Ecuador, Peru, and Chile used to be Viceroy to Spain the Spanish Empire. Most Spaniards (are or were) back during the colonial times very reserve, conservative, catholic, and very prideful people, that at times could be confused with arrogance. Specially Northern and Central Spaniards that historically speaking are more reserve, conservatives, and shy than to their fellow countrymen the Southern Spaniards that are more open, friendly, and out spoken. Venezuela and Colombia received a big African slave population maybe that's why they have that Caribbean meaningful happy, dancing, full of life lifestyle. Argentina received millions of Italians immigrants maybe that's why they like to speak a lot more.

[@juligrlee556]

Did you say "lead'em" or "let-em"? I know you are not so grumpy or gringo anymore. Beautiful setting. I'd like to jump in a nice pool and just splash around a bit before jumping into a hot tub and sauna. Enjoy your food and bitty bites.

[@jamielivingston7765]

Bite me Don!

[@Resmith18SR]

Hey Don, Im wondering if you have ever tried Mercado Libre in Ecuador? I have used Mercado Libre here in Mexico many times to purchase small items and the shipping cost is very reasonable. Also if you know of any affordable places there in Manta right now? I just would like something small furnished and in a decent area.

[@DonShader]

I've never heard of them and as far as buying locally in Manta, no thanks, I'll pass on that.

[@DJarry394]

No more "Bite me?". People are stoopid

[@luiscastro5456]

No more biting ? hahaha..

[@dougdileo4727]

that's good news for the shipping...nice watch,,,cool gimble follows face movement-awesome...i left a comment on your anti gringo video yesterday and it was removed...hmmmm.....no one likes truth about anything anymore....

[@DonShader]

The whole video was removed, which includes all comments. Feel free to repost if you like.

[@terryashley4674]

Seems like you have to tread lightly if you want to survive on KZbin.

[@DonShader]

Well, yes and no. If I didn't give a darned, I'd probably never remove a video because someone got their feelings hurt but I care enogh that even if one nerve gets pinched, I do what I can to make up for it.