Exploring the Contrasts: Life in the United States vs. Ecuador

[@RM-ud5yv]

Thank you for making this video and also making me smile as you talked about hot fudge sundaes one moment and a little later about the wonderful Ecuadorian chocolate. Each place has its good and its bad. Unlike some people you know how to find some of the best in both cultures. May your friendships in both worlds continue to help you thrive and i look forward to your observations after retreturning to Manta!

[@tmcdon]

Don! Great to see you! So good to see you doing well and healthy. We were starting to worry. Glad to hear of your love for Ecuador and willingness to live there is undiminished, and you plan to return. As always, we look forward to watching your journey and hearing your insights and wisdom. Thank you for keeping us posted and for your willingness to share.

[@lifeofmaxine]

Don, I don't think things will ever be the same in the USA again. Too much drama, hate, division, etc. I hate it. I want to go home sometimes.. I miss my people. I do also love living here in Mexico. I feel peaceful here. BTW. They have skinny pop here. You should come for 6 months, then apply for your Reg program while it's still on the table.

[@paulbeaudoin3669]

May I ask where exactly are you in Mexico, and ballpark figure of your monthly cost of living?

[@DonShader]

I'm thinking very seriously about doing just that. But I just don't know where I would go, other than mayby Queratero (sp?). If I came to where you are, we could do some videos about it.

[@destinationmax]

@@DonShaderThat would be awesome! Queretaro is only 2.5 hours from me. I Understand that it’s popular affordable in a great city. Mexico is so huge that you have so many choices. Let me know how I can help to get you down here. What have you got to lose?

[@destinationmax]

@@paulbeaudoin3669 Hello there. I’m am near Mexico City in the mountain range, but in a non tourist/expat area. I started out a couple of years ago living in Quintana Roo. Puerto Morelos and Playa Del Carmen. it’s a great place to live if you’re not sharp with your Spanish skills and love having an Expat community. I grew tired of the outrageous electric bills for air con and living forever in a tourist destination is not my thing. I can tell you that my personal cost-of-living is better than USA, but everyone is different depending on what lifestyle you prefer. I live like a local, mostly and do not own a car. I buy most of my food and household items from the Mercados, and cook most all of my meals at home. I don’t go out to bars, clubs but I do love shopping, taking the bus or colectivos to nearby, magical towns, weekend trips, hiking and exploring. I’m taking Spanish lessons, it’s a must in non tourist areas if you want to have a quality of life and actually save some money. Right now I’m purchasing household things, furniture and appliances so it’s hard to tell anyone what my budget is because of my personal situation. I’m also saving for my retirement, emergencies and purchasing home so my budget is strict due to that. I’m a single woman supporting myself with my small online business. I highly recommend the website numbeo.com . You can plug in cost comparisons between cities. ❤ Best wishes.

[@jpny4750]

@@DonShader- Careful, no insurance in Mexico will cover pre-existing conditions.

[@wiggy5927]

Thank you for being an excellent person Don what you did for your friend helping him out, in time of need is beautiful.

[@alkubbo1291]

Three weeks of not posting was too long , Don. Thankfully, you are doing fine so there was no need to worry. Abrazos and keep safe. - BTW, we are doing fine in Panamá.

[@GMAceM]

Great update brother! Hope you enjoy the time over there and it’ll be great to hang when you come back 💯

[@samtoo2010]

Love your Chanel can’t wait to be in Cuenca soon

[@JB-uw5yh]

Good to see you back! The USA is still a great place, the worry by many is that it is declining. Go to LA, SF, NY, etc.. Its scary! And yes, it is very expensive here.

[@jmyonan]

Thanks for the update, Don! It's always good to hear from you.

[@DonShader]

Thanks for listening

[@alainbergeron4520]

Don, it is so nice to hear from you. We could feel Ecuador is important to you! And you are missing your entourage including your GF. Hang on there, you're the best!! From a faithful listener.. hasta luego

[@janetrobinson8925]

Thank you for being so kind, we need more people like you.

[@darlinespring4066]

Good to see you, Don! Be well.

[@ecuadorexpat8558]

@Don Shader glad you re ok..Hope you ll be back in Ecuador..I just celebrated my 4 yr anniversary in Cuenca ..God bless you

[@Lazegoose55]

I was just looking to see if you put out a recent video just a couple of hours ago and here you are. Nice to see you.

[@SeabySea28]

Thank you for speaking good about USA. Everyone seems to speak negative and trash talk. This country has declined terribly for the past few years. This government definitely needs to get their sh!t together. I want my USA 🇺🇸 back. I have considered moving to Ecuador, my family is from Manabi, just weighing the pros and cons. I love Manta. Hope the situation in Ecuador gets better soon. The world going through many changes, some more than others.

[@Cuprum46]

Greetings from Canada, Great video, thank you Don.

[@intriagoandrade]

Great to hear you Don, nice video as allways.

[@SoulWhisperer]

Nice to hear a word from you. Kind of you to help you friend. Good heart. Safe journey when you return.

[@DonShader]

My girlfriend always tells me that I'm one step closer to heaven.

[@Jetmab04]

Thanks so much dear Don. Hurry up, pack your bags and, go back to your girlfriend and Ecuador.. I agree with someone else here who wrote the US will never be the same again...coming from the oldest colonial and, being able/forced to see - from a distance - the way the place and the people have now been completely destroyed, makes my heart cry and, I will never ever move back to such a place... I know these western countries all look so nice - on the surface - but we all know by now, they are being destroyed completely and, from the inside..I will never ever deal with this again when I can leave in just under 2 years..the term 'wjen enough is enough" just flipped over and became a thing that no longer matters O me and, I know Americans thinking the same about the US...met some lovely Americans in Morocco a couple of years ago and, we agreed, we are the ones no.longer welcome in our own countries....we were all welcome in lovely Morocco.. And yes, I'm sure/I know Ecuador is not perfect...but it's a country and, the Ecuadorians are lovely... If I am to die poor, I'd definitely prefer Ecuador to Europe at all times..hence, travel back to the woman you love dear Don..take care 💓

[@davidc1961utube]

Good to hear from you my friend. Nice to see you are OK in AZ. One day I'm going to go to Winslow, and stand on the corner, looking for a flat bed Ford... LOL

[@m1952-s1n]

Don, I love you for your honest talk about Ecquador, totally use ful and true talk.😅😅

[@frankkluz9787]

I didn't think you would stay here in the USA. -- INFLATION is ridiculous here in the US !!! -- Many are leaving and/or preparing to leave. The senior situation is absurd for the richest country on earth. Homeless in the streets @ 70 & 80 years old is unforgivable - cause the rent doubled when the lease expired ? -- GREED HERE - GOES BEYOND - 'CORPORATE' !!! - - - Has me about ready to go to the PHILIPPINES - where a place can be had for up to 70% less than the average US cost of living. English is widely spoken and cheap rent can be had. Beats the streets of Biden's America in my view. Affordable housing has dried up with millions of illegals helping the shortage ? Not looking good for the near future here - in my opinion at least. --- All the best Don.

[@michellemanion7031]

Good to hear your voice, Don.

[@carlosrobertoalsina3882]

Good to see you again, great video

[@garylilly8953]

hi don i just wanted to say i enjoy your channel

[@tony-ce7qp]

another good video for us!

[@robbies2604]

Great video, Donnie. I’ve always known you were a big softie and that your bark was worse than your bite. 😂 Your compassion towards the struggling expat was a very moving story. I’m coming out west mid-April and would love to see you if you’re still there. I know, however, you’re missing your sweetie and ready to get back so no worries if we can’t meetup. Take care young man.❤

[@DonShader]

I'm leaving in three weeks. You can always call on whatsapp, ya'know.

[@kimolson5878]

Thanks for the video. Looking forward to hearing your next.

[@Tuffolo]

Oh Don, thought you’d already gone back. Whatever you decide, hope you are happy either way. It’s tough when your heart is split between two countries and you have to say bye to one.

[@DonShader]

Yes, it's going to be a miserable day when I have to leave here.

[@curtismandrake1843]

Great to see you and get an update, Don. (I wish I had double-paned windows for some people I know. ) :)

[@farawayfred802]

Great video Don,! Yiu are right about cooperate greed. Ecuador was our first choice but we decided on Chaing Mai and we arw very happy, especially with the medical.

[@montebrown9528]

Good to hear from you again. Be careful on your motorcycle. 😎

[@DonShader]

I sold the MC. I ended up not liking it and got rid of it quickly.

[@jamesduff6851]

Missed you Senor Don

[@juliebabin]

3:50 Not to forget roosters !! Even in Manta. Depending on where you stay.

[@BPe-ie9je]

Hey Julie. I have chickens and roosters(2) . I love the sound. I'll get rid of chickens and roosters when I move to EC. I'll miss them something terrible. Plus the pastured eggs.

[@James-uk8dx]

Hi Don. You nailed it... corporate greed is driving inflation. Many of the problems in the US are preventable. Most are policy decisions by our government. It will get worse before it gets better. Good day.

[@JonJohnsDad]

hey Don. LIving in Awhatukee for now but will expat to EC next spring.

[@sluiceboxcharlie9836]

Thanks for the update Don.

[@DonShader]

Any time

[@dovygoodguy1296]

Hi Don. It looks like Noboa just screwed up royally by arresting Jorge Glass in the Mexican embassy in violation of international law. I wonder what the urgency was. There was no way Glass would get away anyway.....

[@DonShader]

I could care less, why would anybody else?

[@dovygoodguy1296]

@@DonShaderIt will have implications for Ecuador's stability.

[@DonShader]

@@dovygoodguy1296 So? EC has never had stability and never will. It's going to take longer than my lifespan to see any improvement here.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

@@DonShader Yes, but it's been relatively good which is why it has drawn so many expats.

[@DonShader]

@@dovygoodguy1296 that are leaving now.

[@mrnice1976]

You don't loan money, you gift money. I never expect it back and I often don't get it back. As long as you approach it that way you won't be disappointed.

[@BPe-ie9je]

Hey Don. Couple questions regarding going to , going back to EC: How do you haul back your cash. Everyone says bring small bills. $5's. $1's. Thats a wad!!! And: where did you buy your mace ? Is it easy to buy ? (the simple thingsL any other advice ?) I'm single and will be walking around alone.

[@DonShader]

Keep your money stateside and use ATMs. When I initially went to EC, I carried a couple thousand dollars in 20s, 10s, 5s, and 1s. Do NOT take any hundred dollar or fifty dollar bills. In retrospect, taking 2k was overkill and dangerous. I carry pepper spray, it was given to me by a retired cop. You can buy it in EC but I don't know how good it is. I've never had to use mine but I did show it once and I don't know that it helped. Your best defense if to stay in safe areas, don't give reason for being robbed, don't flash your wealth and dress like a local. Also, learn dome Spanish.

[@BPe-ie9je]

@@DonShader ATM's give $20.'s. Everyone says you cant get change for a $20. fromb a vendor, etc.

[@DonShader]

@@BPe-ie9je Cash management is a major problem in EC and you have to get creative. Most major outlets have change but where people suffer the most is from Taxis. It's always best to ask the driver if they have change before even getting in the car.

[@jerrygarcia4390]

Thanks for the update, Don. I’m been concerned about you. But, it looks like you are doing great in Mesa (at least until it’s gets up to 120 F) 👍🏾 😂

[@climber3050]

I bought double pane windows for my place in Quito. Would never go without them!

[@Coolman1985]

Do they work ?

[@climber3050]

@@Coolman1985 wonderfully

[@Vivi30908]

Some people make more than one move after retirement. Try to visit Panama to see if you will like it. I never visit Ecuador, I can't compare the beauty between these two countries, but Panama is a great place for retirees. A second place would be Merida, Mexico. I know for sure you will like it. It's beautiful and safe. The only thing there is the income requirement that is really high. Take it easy during this time of changes. I would not recommend you the DR.

[@DonShader]

What is the current income requirement for Mexico?

[@whacked00]

Great advice, Don. The US has some amazing places, people and benefits. But, the cost of living is really high and health care is very expensive. And lets not talk about the politics in the US....

[@jgonz260]

I agree with controlling corporate greed, no doubt,

[@tony-ce7qp]

thats a nice patio!

[@debrareynolds9067]

How is the Santa Rosa area ? Appreciate your topics, thank you Don

[@DonShader]

I'm not familiar with the Santa Rosa area you speak of. Sorry.

[@chancerobinson5112]

You don’t miss the car & store alarms 24/7?

[@tomg1247]

We're in Cuenca. These are the one thing we just do not get! No one seems to ever respond so I have no clue what good they do. And certainly have never figured out what sets them off. We even see people sitting in their own car with an alarm going. Goofy! But we're not about to leave. ¡Viva Cuenca!

[@Coolman1985]

I'm with you don, ecuador is nice but it has changed a lot in the recent years, would def not say for the better, Usa has its problems but its still better than most countries

[@daviddurango9562]

I'm in Vilcabamba. Don, when I came here, I had high blood pressure too. 4 months later, no more high blood pressure. I'm 68 and go for long walks every day. What you say about Americans here is true. Drunks and losers are common, but I've also met some great people here. Lay off the junk food Don. You know there’s salt that you don't need. Eat fruit instead.

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

There are many countries on the world. Not just the US and Ecuador

[@DonShader]

Wow! Really?

[@tony-ce7qp]

o i love coffee...it is better there WOW!

[@Dahon5]

Can you do a video on your costs of living in AZ now?

[@DonShader]

I will when I get back

[@Robertsdogs]

Nice to see you again Don, was getting a bit concerned that you might not be well. Glad you are doing great. Tell Stella she's a saint for putting up with a fellow curmudgeon. Exploiting generosity is everywhere, even here in the US. you know when you can't do it 1 month, and they disappear, they were using you, or, if they immediately say your selfish. Nope, you're not. I had to tell a family member, yes, I can afford to buy your groceries, but then, I won't be able to afford my groceries. And, I also knew that they'd never loan me a dime for anything, even if they'd won the lottery. And in South America, it's never a really loan, it's a gift.

[@DonShader]

I completely agree. Thanks for your feedback Robert.

[@kathywilson9257]

I´m afraid I have to agree with you about enjoying the peace and quiet, because it´s non-existent here in Cuenca. Not just normal city noises, but the morons shooting off aerial bombs, a million dogs barking, excessively loud music for every single event, even a frickin´medical clinic. Good grief. But Ecuador is expensive is so many ways. Just try to buy anything of decent quality here and not pay a fortune for it. Most of what you buy here is high priced but very poor quality.

[@DonShader]

I'm convinced there is NO place to live in SA that offers peace and quiet.

[@bouuigigw]

Hey Don, maybe you could make a video about how to buy a car in Ecuador.

[@DonShader]

I did. Have you ever checked out my Video index? The link to it is in the description. I did two videos on my car.

[@janina8559]

Someone should teach you that you can make popcorn fresh at home very easily.

[@BPe-ie9je]

Janine whats your favorite way ? make popcorn

[@DonShader]

I do! I make popcorn at home (in Manta) almost daily. What makes you think I don't know how? But if I could find this stuff in Manta, I would buy it simply because of the convenience and it's just good stuff.

[@janina8559]

@@DonShader when you make it at home try shaking grated Parmigiana cheese on it. No salt or butter needed. Thats the bomb!

[@DonShader]

@@janina8559Alrighty then, I'll try that. Thanks for the tip.

[@dgdw]

You want to know something I never thought I'd miss from the USA but I do? Grocery store pre-made submarine sandwiches wrapped in Saran Wrap.

[@DonShader]

Yes, me too. I miss a LOT of grocery options that we don't have in EC.

[@jesseornelas6600]

You still got property in Mesa?

[@DonShader]

No. That was my big mistake in all this, selling my condo.

[@tommyg.9069]

What about your apartment in Manta?

[@DonShader]

What about it? I still have it unless there's been a major earthquake I don't know about.

[@comrade916]

Don, the cost of living is much higher in the U.S. You mention that is the reason why you live in Ecuador.. My question to you is, do you know the average lifespan of a male in the U.S? I think it's about 78.. With this in mind, why would you care what the cost of living is in the U.S.? You can't take your money with you when you're 6 ft under can you?

[@DonShader]

What money? While the average lifespan of a male in the U.S. may indeed be around 78 years, several factors influence one's decisions beyond life expectancy. The cost of living in the U.S. is undeniably high, affecting seniors who must juggle expenses like rent, healthcare, utilities, and food. Moving to Ecuador wasn't solely driven by financial concerns, but rather a holistic consideration of quality of life. The inflated costs of groceries and services in the U.S. further strain fixed incomes. Despite statistical averages, personal circumstances and preferences shape our choices. Ensuring financial stability and a comfortable standard of living is a priority, regardless of life expectancy.

[@comrade916]

@@DonShader This is true.. If you're going to stay in Ecuador for a total holistic experience and thrive during retirement, great! It took me years to find a retirement spot for me and it wasn't based solely on cost. I have lived in the U.S. for a few decades, but never really enjoyed it.. Thus, I am moving to a place where I can assimilate and become part of society.. My goal was to absolutely not live somewhere isolated from local society as an expat..

[@marialennen3660]

How do seniors live with social security and medicare,+ subside insurance.

[@DonShader]

We live in another country

[@jpny4750]

It requires planning years in advance. I live in Manhattan, things are not cheap here. It took some time to find a rent-regulated apartment in a great neighborhood, but it was worth it. My rent is less than what people pay in maintenance fees. If you are over 62 and have less than $50k/year income, you can get rent-freeze from the state government, so your rent doesn’t go up. I have Trader Joe’s 2 blocks for me, so most of my groceries are (semi)reasonably priced. In the city you don’t need a car - you can get anywhere by bus or subway. My Obamacare insurance is fully subsidized so I pay no premiums and have no deductibles. There is a lot you can do if you plan ahead. I am not rich, but lack nothing. Of course, I never had expectations of my retirement consisting of summers in Paris and winters on a cruise ship.

[@rafaeldla]

I feel ya...it's none of anyone's business the specifics of your life. No one asked for my advice but...I was surprised when you spoke about specifics in your other videos, that I've watched as of finding your channel, this afternoon lol. I live in mexico and the noise is incredibly off-putting . Those who bitch about this viewpoint are usually jealous locals who wish they were able to work remotely in another country (and would if they could) and fellow expats who are in permanent apology mode for coming from a developed economy. Anyways, I avoid that crap by living in a gated community and when wknd residents flow in I go in the opposite direction.

[@tony-ce7qp]

the USA is bad the borders are open and we cant take care of our own Veterans or homeless and health care......sir it is not started yet the problems honest. i want some of that popcorn!

[@samlyons3552]

Garden

[@KurtMueller-g2l]

VA health care. You can own firearms. You have a usa background The price of things here will never go down. We wait for the next move on the dollar

[@Cuprum46]

What about, instead of Ecuador, go to Argentina?

[@DonShader]

It's certainly in my radar.

[@dh2392]

I have some properties I'm going to sell, and put the money into cash now annuities. I'll get close to $5000 a month. That plus my social security and small union pension from the 5 years I was in the union will give me a gross income of over $8K a month, and I'll rent a apartment to live in. Yeah, I could sell them, and buy something where I want to retire, but I would be looking at less than $4K a month income. I'm way ahead renting and taking the income.

[@wisdompathconscioushealthe7807]

I love Lesser Evil popcorn 🍿💯 organic, nonGMO, delicious avocado oil... Has a Big Buddha on the package. Next to the Skinny Pop and has no political affiliation.😂

[@dougdileo4727]

uhh ohh Don has a soft spot- not so grumpy...lol....stay grounded

[@DonShader]

shhhhhhhh, don't tell anyone.

[@clasebeta4214]

Damn 2:37

[@pamela5568]

So, your popcorn is Republican free? Hmmm

[@richardcooper4825]

Would you please speak to the potential double taxation an expat can face? I would think that has to factor into cost of living abroad...paying taxes to US and to Ecuador.

[@DonShader]

I'm researching it.

[@dougdileo4727]

Trump has the answers...good to see you don

[@harryrocco7591]

I’m in Mexico 2 years...Trump isn’t the answer...believe me

[@JulioGarcia-rn2lb]

manta noise is unaceptable

[@DonShader]

No joke. It's ridiculous and what makes it worse is the beating I take from some people when I complain about it. It's like "how dare you not liking our noise!"

[@SlaveNation1]

There is no place on earth that is better than USA! There is a cost associated with opportunities, convenience and infrastructure that are enjoyed in USA. God bless America! However, try Morocco because it is away safer than South America and many other countries and away cheaper. But try to stay away from big cities and crowded areas. Good luck for you!

[@relicofgold]

Really really enjoyed this vid Don. As usual, you get to he critical points. Candid af. I'll send you an email.

[@georgeallen7667]

Don't, within 12 months or so, your "condo" will be pennies on the dollar. Hang on!

[@douglasvoncannon3073]

That's my return to US plan.

[@fabianserrano9371]

Don. You're in Bad shape...food in USA has to many calories or what.

[@alananthony6397]

Skinny pop not skinny

[@DonShader]

what?

[@dl1130]

If you find popcorn "democrat free" post it! Will sell like pancakes!😂