Why Ecuador? $300 per month cost of living?

People often ask me why, why do I live in Ecuador and with the current crisis why I remain in Ecuador? I try to explain the reasons in this video as I show you a little more of my farm, my life, and explain my cost of living here on the farm in rural Ecuador just a short drive from the international airport, the capital, Quito, and all the services such as healthcare and shopping you could want;

[@sergheiceban538]

I built house one year and half ago in Ecuador. It is in Mirador San Jose, which is in 50 kilometers south of Manta. My expenses in US dollars in Month (I'm alone): $20 maintenance fee (it is an association place), about $40 for hydro (have two airconditioners, refrigerator, water heater, but still have not TV and washer/dryer), $6-water, $5.5-drinking water, $35-Internet, $0.6 (yes, just 60 cents) for propane tank (cook myself, never eat out), $217 for food (bus fare to Manta back and forth included), $0.83 (yes just 83 cents) land fee (pay to Goverment), $50 for extras. Total: $375. Let's asume my expenses will increase du to buying car and some aplliances and it will reach plus $125 in month. In this case I'll get $500 in month. I guess $500 in month is good number for anybody. Off coars, if you owe the property at ocean coast.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thank you for sharing this. I’m pinning this comment so others will see it. I am happy to see others adding to the conversation by sharing their experiences and expenses.

[@staciarn1]

Today’s episode was very interesting and open. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about the short term impact of what’s going on in that beautiful country.

[@angelofamillionyears4599]

How man SF is home? What was total cost of home,land and labor? Can you share a photo?

[@toddmaek5436]

Very dope. This is a very good comment.

[@gta-6837]

What size is the house. I'm building in the desert

[@patsonmandaza936]

I bought a small..terono tiny piece of land for 5000 cash and I am single. I spend less than 200 a month. I am happy here in Ecuador.

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome. Where is your land, what province/city?

[@fastneataverage]

Yes what part of Ecuador are you in?

[@user-oy7ev4hy5t]

I can't believe you people like Ecuador vs. high industry country

[@chrismcfarland2494]

I live in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador with my wife and two young children. We LOVE it here. My 8yo daughter is at dance class with my wife right now. I’m a dive master and love diving at Isla de la Plata. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

[@FallofftheMap]

I really like Puerto Lopez. When I first arrived in Ecuador I tried to buy a farm there but I had a hard time finding anything in my budget except comuna land. Out of curiosity, I heard some rumors about there being problems with a lot of extortion going on there now. I suspect it’s just made up nonsense, but the rumor was that the gangs were charging all the taxis $30 per month to operate and charging tourists to access the beach or go in the ocean. Any truth to the rumors? Was anything like that going on?

[@evangelicalsnever-lie9792]

What kind of life can 100k /year obtain in Ecuador?

[@FallofftheMap]

@evangelicalsnever-lie9792 a very good life. At 30k per year you’d be upper middle class.

[@ESL-O.G.]

I can't believe you're raising a family on a divers income

[@miguelponceespinel5666]

As an Ecuadorian I love to hear the point of view of a foreigner that likes my country. Keep it up 👍🏼

[@FallofftheMap]

I think that the majority of foreigners that move to Ecuador love Ecuador, in the same way that immigrants to the U.S. tend to love America more than citizens that were born in America and take it for granted. Ecuador isn’t perfect, but when you travel and see enough of the world you realize that there are problems everywhere. Nowhere is perfect, but for me and the things I value Ecuador is better than anywhere else.

[@microfarming8583]

I love your country. I had the most amazing 6 weeks there. Special people and special.place, magical

[@katipohl2431]

Hi from Germany and with the increasing crisis I plan to leave Europe. As a child I lived in Chile for 3 years, learned Spanish and love South America. Now I am a graduated biologist and professional gardener who studied some agriculture too. It is time to get my own house and land. Just discovered your channel.

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome. There seems to be quite a movement of people leaving the developed world and taking steps to become as self sufficient as possible. South America isn’t perfect by any means, but it is a place that seems better suited to get through various global crisis without too much trouble. In Ecuador people are so used to difficulties that they’re able to kind of shrug off problems that would cause riots and looting other places. Do you know where you want to go yet? Chile sounds amazing, but expensive.

[@katipohl2431]

@@FallofftheMap Am not sure yet and have heard about Chile beeing expensive. On holidays I have already visited Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Venezuela. Ecuador appeared friendly and peaceful.

[@theonefromtheworld]

Ich werde Europa auch verlasse. Wahrscheinlich auch richtig Latin Amerika

[@rf3596]

Stay in Europe

[@FallofftheMap]

@@rf3596 stay home, eat microwaved dinners and watch the nightly news. Take your vitamins and antidepressants. Vote for people that look like you, talk like you. Take no risks.

[@adventurefreaksss]

That is beautiful country! Ecuador is an amazing country!!

[@jackgoldman1]

When you live the life you think you ought to be, your life comes the life you want. True bliss.

[@FallofftheMap]

Or something like that

[@ecuadorexpat8558]

I moved to Cuenca EC 4 Yrs ago and I am deeply in love w this beautiful country and its people ..

[@FallofftheMap]

I wish I could have convinced my family to live near Cuenca. I love my little farm near Quito, but Quito is definitely too big and crowded for me. If I could have made the decision on my own I probably would have bought land near Chordeleg for my farm journeyed into Cuenca for shopping, medical care, etc…

[@kargs5krun]

Thanks. Answered my question(s) re: Cuenca & your opinion. @@FallofftheMap

[@FallofftheMap]

@kargs5krun glad I could help. Though, my land would likely have cost about twice as much if it were a similar distance from Cuenca and had the same climate, soils, tractor-able topography, and services. Demand has driven up costs near Cuenca.

[@WasLivingTheDream]

I'm from the United States and have resided in Ecuador for over two decades, spending 8 years in Quito and the subsequent 12 years just north of Manta in Bahia de Caraquez. Interestingly, I find myself feeling more secure in Ecuador than I ever did in my home country. While there is certainly an element of narco-related crime, it has not directly impacted my personal safety. My social circle in Manta also attests to the lack of issues they have encountered. Bahia de Caraquez, where I reside, is a serene coastal town. Like any other city, there are areas with higher crime rates, but steering clear of these locales ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

[@FallofftheMap]

Nice. I used to live in Canoa and still hope to complete an apartment complex project there, though I put it on hold to reassess after the 2016 earthquake. Bahia is beautiful.

[@WasLivingTheDream]

@@FallofftheMap Hey there! Things are really picking up in Canoa's real estate scene, and Bahia's condos are making a comeback. Lots of new buildings are popping up, and guess what? We've got a fybecca now! Personally, I'm getting a bit worn out with the whole landlord gig, so I've decided to sell six apartments with an awesome view of the bridge. It's been a while since you swung by, right? Why not plan a visit and check out all the cool developments yourself? Oh, by the way, I own CoCo Bongo Hostel in Bahia. If you have any questions about what's happening down here, just shoot me a message. Cheers!

[@garlandetheridge9902]

Former resident of Bahia as well as well as Banos. Truly a wonderful experience. I Still have F/B friends there who were a great part of my life. I love Ec and will revisit again soon. Most of the fear of what is going on there now can be avoided. Thanks for your post.

[@d.f.9064]

In Cotacachi there has been no effect from recent events. Love this place.

[@dagramirez]

For us it was USD $500 a month. Family of 5 , staying at a at a one room apartment in Quito in 1985! That’s about $1800 today

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome. I hope more folks will comment with their experiences and living experiences in Ecuador to help provide a more complete picture.

[@stevenvillines6771]

I really enjoy the direction of your channel. It is incredibly interesting being along for the ride this long! The American exceptionalsim stuff gets really old. I have four kids, like my parents did before me in Indiana. And I clearly see that the despite a great job my kids will have a lower quality of life than I did. Nothing happening here is sustainable.

[@FallofftheMap]

That is something I think about a lot and discuss with my family. The American dream is still alive and well, but it moved overseas. I am trying to get my kids to focus on careers that can’t easily be replaced by AI and are location independent so they aren’t stuck in some town dependent on the whims of a factory.

[@user-oy7ev4hy5t]

Don't move to Ecuador ​@@FallofftheMap

[@FallofftheMap]

@@user-oy7ev4hy5t too late. I moved to Ecuador over a decade ago. Yes, it’s not as safe as it used to be, but I still love it here.

[@MikeLlerena]

Well, speaking as an expat, we have a different income from locals and that gives us the advantage in any country in the world… when I was living in Ecuador I was making $1100 and as a single person is really good… but if you have a family it’ll hit your pocket… I miss many things from Ecuador for example food, people, how accessible and cheap is health care, Quito in general… of course there are many negative things but they are not the 100%, just look at other countries. I’ll definitely go back after I reach my goals… in the meantime keep enjoying Ecuador.

[@Hewhogreetswithfjre]

I was in Ecuador 2019 it’s a beautiful country. I miss Quito. I hope someday I return.

[@lesliekwan6654]

Oh my goodness such a beautiful country.

[@FallofftheMap]

It really is one of the beautiful places on earth.

[@TIG2MAN0]

Man thats great. I love that. Look at those green mountains

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks 👍

[@mr-vet]

My wife was born & raised in Ecuador (I was born & raised in the US). We’ve been married 30 years this May. I’ve been considering getting my Ecuadorian citizenship (so I can have a 2nd passport) but I need to be a resident for 2 years first.

[@thedude8503]

You'd be very welcome!

[@xiaobao4757]

30 Years!! Congratulations, Sir!

[@FallofftheMap]

I have considered doing the same, but I’m a bit worried an about potential tax consequences.

[@MidnightWednesday]

Thanks for sharing! I enjoyed listening to your perspective. I'm planning to visit Ecuador in June! I loved Nicaragua and can't wait to explore more of central/South America! I'm working hard to become a future expat. Salud! 😊

[@FallofftheMap]

You’re welcome. I make a point of being accessible and answering questions, so if you need any advice feel free to ask. I enjoy helping others make this leap into becoming an expat.

[@Ed.V]

I'm Ecuadorian and I'm thinking to back to my country... I found u video very helpful. Cheers 🤙🏾✨ 💛💙❤️🇪🇨 See you on the road 🛣️

[@FallofftheMap]

There have been many Ecuadorians returning lately. Don’t forget to look into the import tax incentives that are specifically designed to get Ecuadorians to move back. customs.sirva.com/countries/ecuador/ecuador---returning-citizen

[@LivingLovingAbroad]

Appreciate the shift in focus! Affordable living is the number 1 reason we chose the country.

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, creating content about crime and a crisis gets views, and I don’t mind touching on it in a couple videos to share my perspective and experience, but it quickly becomes toxic and doesn’t represent the Ecuador I know and love. I noticed your channel and Lewis in Ecuador also sensed it was time to pivot back to positivity on at about the same moment. I just came in from shooting another positive vid, this time rambling about how awesome my neighbors and community are and then mucking around in the garden. Got the idea after my 81 year old neighbor called to me from atop his horse and gave me a bag of corn. He didn’t want money for it. He had extra and wanted to share. I happen to know he has a leaky roof and I have some left over roofing panels, so of course I insisted he take what he needs. This is how my community works and how everyone out here thrives without needing much money.

[@LivingLovingAbroad]

Awesomeness!!!! @@FallofftheMap

[@niko_walks]

This was a great intersection of your "farm life" motivations and the current happenings. Keep on keeping on. Thanks.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks, will do!

[@user-wi4nn3vd9l]

Great perspective! Thank you brother!☮️❤️🙏🏻

[@davidkoziar1811]

Loved this video. Appreciate you being upfront with the costs. Hope to see how much food you’re getting out of your land and what you’ve got growing. Congrats on making it out!

[@FallofftheMap]

Eventually I will make a detailed video about what I’m growing on my land, but I’m not ready yet. All of my fruit trees are young so right now the things I’m growing are not very impressive. I do get all the kale, chard, and spinach I could want, and often have plenty of fava beans, potatoes, passionfruit, squash, corn, hot peppers, and asparagus. I think as soon as the avocado trees start to produce and the aquaponics system is fully set up then I’ll be ready to show off the farm and explain my project in greater detail.

[@davidkoziar1811]

@@FallofftheMap Amazing. That’s a good variety to start with. Pineapples, apples, citrus and watermelons would be excellent additions. How does it all work with two seasons? Is there a particular time to plant and harvest or can it go year round? Looking forward to when you’re ready to show everything off!

[@jeffbeck8993]

Budget overview sounds good, thanks. 👍 By comparison, Northeast Thailand, wife, no kids, average 3bed/2bath house in an older development was about $50,000 to buy + about $35,000 improvements over past 6 years. - Monthly passive income (enlisted mil pension) is about $2,800. - $700 off the top goes into several buckets like medical/dental contingencies, periodic bills pro-rated out over 12 months like cars/motorcycle insurances/registration, and then monthly utilities which runs about $120 variable for all including internet. - $600 lump sum monthly saving amount in a decent interest% account. - $1,500ish remains, so that's what we both share during the month. We live on the edge of a good size metro/city, so there are all sorts of pubs, restaurants, malls, etc., for discretionary spending, which we do, but keep it in check. Most often $100~$200 left over at the end of the month.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks for the comparison. The time I spent in Thailand trying to figure out if it was a place I wanted to move to I was mostly in a place south of Krabi. Tourist area for rock climbers called Ton Sai that has since been bought up by a developer. Being a bit of a dirtbag I stayed in a $5 a night bamboo shack, but food prices there pushed my expenses up. I think I was spending about $1500 per month at the time. Insurance is one expense I didn’t talk about and should have. I do pay for some low cost insurance for my kids, but for myself I always just pay out of pocket, I’m uninsured. Over the long run this has paid off, but at the moment I need to have a surgery to reattach my ACL (motorcycle crash) which will cost me about $3500. This will be my most expensive and serious medical expense so far in my very lucky life. 9 years ago I did pay $7000 when my wife had an emergency c-section and my son spent a week in ICU. She was insured but the government insurance required using government hospitals and when we needed them most they shrugged and said they were too busy that day. It’s experiences like that which really put my off of paying insurance, at least for myself.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

@@FallofftheMap on the whole insurance is a scam.

[@jeffbeck8993]

@@FallofftheMap Roger that, landing in Thailand never would have occurred to me 20/30 years ago. Always thought I'd end up in Baja or other Spanish speaking country. Thailand is ok, would be far more challenging, and less appealing, w/o a Thai wife. /// Similar reservations about local Thai medical insurance. Pay out of pocket same as you do, the costs are very reasonable here for routine/minor things. Imagine the big stuff will come in the future, eventually. Heard some expats here go through companies in the UK or US for reliable, but costly, international medical insurance./// Good luck down there. Somehow managed to get through the last election here without a coup, but plenty of shenanigans.

[@jm-bv1wh]

@@anniesshenanigans3815 Unfortunately, a scam that you can't live without. Everybody is in good health until they're not.

[@mauimixer6040]

So, Now, you don't have rent to pay, since you brought, when the buying was good ?? Looking to scout chang Mai again, but more so,Pai , in next couple months. Not a fan of too much heat, especially with brown outs etc.

[@ZombiePowerDrink]

So cool to see

[@FastFredRuddock]

You are living a good life with great balance! I love Ecuador too!

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome. What’s your favorite place in Ecuador?

[@janscriptz1049]

Wow it's so lovely... air seems super fresh and crisp.

[@FallofftheMap]

Outside the pollution of the city at 2390m elevation, with winds blowing in alternating from the Southern Pacific Ocean and the Amazon basin, yes this is some of the cleanest air in the world.

[@agcala9619]

Thank you. I am saving your video and will consider what you have said. Eva

[@FallofftheMap]

You’re welcome. Feel free to ask questions here. I do my best to answer any serious questions

[@floridakeysfarmgardenservi160]

Thank you for your help 🙏

[@FallofftheMap]

You're welcome 😊

[@Stoicbreath]

I homestead by myself very remotely in Intag and grow most of my food, raise rabbits, and have goats for company. I bought raw land and have been developing it for the last 4 years. I could not have the lifestyles here I enjoy so much without hired help, something I could never have afforded in the states.

[@FallofftheMap]

I love the Intag valley. I wanted to buy there but it was too remote for my family.

[@Robert_Bubba_Baker]

Interesting discussion you have given.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks.

[@carlosparedes2381]

Good decision you have made. Congratulations for loving my country

[@FallofftheMap]

Ecuador is an easy place to love. I spent years traveling there world before I decided that Ecuador was my forever home. I just with more Ecuadorians understood how precious their country is.

[@andrespazymino1616]

Que viva mi ecuador!

[@gentlebeestar3140]

Thank you for sharing.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks for listening

[@FactFinderer]

I'm a new subscriber... Your video came up on my list. You seem very knowledgeable and I will look forward to future videos.

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome and welcome to my little corner of KZbin. Feel free to ask questions or reach out on FB. I do my best to answer any serious questions and try to help others understand and learn from my experiences. If you’re going to have a hobby, might as well make it something that educates and helps others, right?

[@rafaelsolorzano700]

I'm totally impressed 😮😮😮excellent video

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks.

[@a.alexandrajimenez8437]

Fascinating life. The view is fantastic! SO peaceful. I love it! I grew up in NYC and always thought I was a “city girl” until I relocated to a quiet State. Then, I realized how much I enjoyed the silence. You look happy and content. I'm so glad for you.😊

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks. Yeah, I spent many years in and around Seattle, dealing with city life, traffic, etc… I knew with certainty long ago that my place was somewhere in the campo. If I were singe and able to make the decision on my own I would be much farther out I. The countryside, somewhere that I couldn’t even hear the airplanes passing overhead.

[@a.alexandrajimenez8437]

@@FallofftheMap El Campo is nice but a little too calm. Lol, ~what about the beach, any information on beachfront properties? One day I'll live in Ecuador again. Thanks! 😊

[@valarieknight7990]

You probably won't enjoy Ecuador if you value quiet. They don't know what quiet is. In my area, if it gets too quiet, the police will run up and down the street with their sirens blasting, for no reason. Do more research and you'll see what I mean. And the homes have no sound insulation. Most people have to buy a white noise machine to sleep.

[@FallofftheMap]

@@valarieknight7990 I’ve lived in several different parts of Ecuador. Yes, most places are quite noisy. Where I have my farm is quiet. There are quiet places but you really have to look for them.

[@cerrocampana7191]

You are doing a really nice job with these videos 🙂

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks.

[@terrencegibbons3351]

Looks great

[@TobiGhielifelovestory]

I enjoyed watching your videos because of the beautiful view.I like the place peaceful and wonderful .Soon I am there ❤…watching from Hong Kong…

[@FallofftheMap]

Awesome. Yeah, the views in the mountains are spectacular.

[@dongarcia6491]

It looks beautiful where you are.

[@FallofftheMap]

It is beautiful. I tend to wake up before sunrise when the birds start making noise. I get up, make coffee, and eagerly await daylight so I can go outside and be in the garden.

[@Yvanna-ko4dm]

My husband and own a home in a small town about 30 minutes from Ambato, Provincia de Tungurahua. The cost of living is very low. Monthly expenses: Electric, water, phone, and internet approximately $60; Groceries $200-$250. Eating out: $2.50 up to $15 per person, depending on the restaurant. Of course, you can spend more but, the daily specials are $2.50-$3 for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Public transportation is very cheap and reliable. The temperature is 50-60s at night and 70s in the daytime, mostly sunny. The downside is that not many expats live in this area. Otherwise, it is a safe place to live. Apartment or house rentals under $250 per month.

[@FallofftheMap]

Sounds like you might be Patate or Pelileo. I would love to own land for a small orchard in that area.

[@georgedanmurariu7350]

What's the name of the town you guys are living in? By your description of the cost of living, it looks very attractive to me. I am actually prospecting the best low budget area to visit and retire later on. Thank you in advance!

[@Yvanna-ko4dm]

@@georgedanmurariu7350 I prefer not to give the name of the town that I live in. But I can give you the names of a few small towns nearby Ambato that you can check out. These are all non-expat community small towns. Montalvo, Cevallos, Quero, Pelileo, Pillaro, and Patate. Good luck and you're welcome. :)

[@dan33462]

@@Yvanna-ko4dm Fair enough. Thank you so much!

[@carlanderson4832]

Congrats! I'm living my dream thru you bro.

[@FallofftheMap]

Hopefully you find a way to live your dream through yourself.

[@jlb2275]

I've been in Ecuador since early 2014 now in Cuenca. Love it here, the climate, no mosquitos and low cost of living BUT earlier on I used to spend about 1100 a month renting a small apt. I now spend about 1600 a month still renting a small apt. I've been living all by myself fromm start. So, 300 a month is not something realistic if you want a reasonable standard of living so you can be happy here.

[@FallofftheMap]

What’s the breakdown on what you’re spending $1600 per month on? Admittedly, I save a lot by owning my little farm, both in rent and food costs. In my opinion $300 is absolutely doing and can provide a great quality of life in you live on the right part of Ecuador, make an initial investment so that your long term costs are lower, and are generally a low maintenance person. For entertainment I’m either out in my garden or riding my motorcycle, so my entertainment budget is extremely low. I’m also younger than the typical retiree crowd so my healthcare costs are also low.

[@ReportToTheAmericas-eh6zc]

Megamaxi is a much more pleasant experience than Walmart:)

[@FallofftheMap]

True. Just comparing the layout, selection, and format… not the clientele and service.

[@ReportToTheAmericas-eh6zc]

@FallofftheMap I'm visiting my parents in the States right now. Later today, I'll be going to Walmart to buy a few things to take to Ecuador next week:)

[@FallofftheMap]

@@ReportToTheAmericas-eh6zc stocking up on tablets, phones, MacBooks, cameras, and name brand clothes?

[@ReportToTheAmericas-eh6zc]

@@FallofftheMap Nope:) Just a few food items for friends back home.

[@VentrueMinis]

Super interesting to find out that some of your videos blew up. As a small video creator too, I also find it funny how much KZbin likes negative videos. My most informative ones are always at the bottom. Anyways, I've loved following your journey, back when you were in the arctic and Afghanistan. It's videos like yours that I hope will be helpful for the historians 100 years later, if we're still keeping on by then. Do you think you'll ever get a tractor? Cheers.

[@FallofftheMap]

I have no plans to buy a tractor. I’m working hard to regenerate and restore the soil and using a tractor is not beneficial in the long run. It’s always great to hear from folks that have been following the channel for years. What’s your Channel about? Feel free to link it here.

[@VentrueMinis]

@@FallofftheMap I had no idea that tractors were deterimental to the soil, that's fascinating. I make videos about miniatures wargaming, like Warhammer - very different subject than yours, haha. Quite nerdy. But I like to get as diverse worldview as I can and your videos help. So many people view life as linear, but there's so many paths like yours people don't realize are there. kzbin.info/door/g9G42hVrqdrkrbgimuQsiQ

[@FallofftheMap]

@VentrueMinis went to go check you out and subscribe and realized I was already subscribed to your channel.

[@VentrueMinis]

Haha, I bet that was from the last time I commented many years ago, before I made videos! @@FallofftheMap

[@SUNSHINE-mc4tr]

View is beautiful

[@FallofftheMap]

Yes it is. Just wait for the view from the new farm in the Amazon. Rolling hills of green for as far as the eye can see.

[@francelarebelle1138]

This is beautiful

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks.

[@IntentionalGravity]

Thanks for being real

[@FallofftheMap]

You’re welcome. Thanks for not being fake. Seriously though, what’s up with your pic? Are you a pilot? Have you seen my video about the helicopter flight over Antarctica?

[@4n6wizard]

For me best place to live in Ecuador is in the mountains. Weather is beautiful, the landscape is gorgeous, lot things to do like hiking, bicycling, mountaineering, hot springs, etc. I grown up in Guayaquil, never like it a lot of crime in the coast hopefully one day I would come back and retire in the mountains.

[@FallofftheMap]

I agree. I love the sierra. I also really like Napo province. The coast has always been too hot and had too much crime for me.

[@AdamEgret]

Love a video that gives you the bottom line up front, right in the title.

[@FallofftheMap]

I try not to clickbait or fall into any of the shitty KZbin douchebag traps. Best to provide all the info folks need immediately and hope that the video is good enough for people to stick Arjun, around

[@AdamEgret]

@@FallofftheMap I love it. Sharing your videos with all my friends looking to eventually become expats.

[@commonman711]

This is good content. 👍🏽

[@FallofftheMap]

This is a good comment. 👍

[@pabs8]

Gracias por la información. Si en verdad por acá en estos países “desarrollados”la inflación es alta. Vivo en NJ y las rentas por los apartamentos están de promedio en los $2000 por mes. La calidad de vida de vida en ese campito se ve genial.

[@user-cy2yq7qf4o]

good vid, thanks

[@FallofftheMap]

Glad you liked it!

[@danieldztn3450]

Hey, good job. I love your videos

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks

[@Anomaly66666]

​@@FallofftheMapI want to live there too. Would 600$ cut it in a small town?

[@FallofftheMap]

@Anomaly66 it depends on you, your standards, needs, and your willingness to negotiate prices the way locals do. There are many people that live just fine on $600 per month, but they either have very cheap rent or no rent because they own, they speak Spanish and they understand that negotiating prices is both expected and necessary, they don’t have costly health issues, and they are able to be happy with a simple lifestyle.

[@billearnshaw1074]

Well Done, was there in 95 looking at gold deposits in the North of Ecuador. Sounds like Santa Domingo, when you say northwest, shitload of mosquitos there.... When the politics shifted i changed my plans to move there, due to my profession, hear the new President is more friendly to commerce. Loved the people, loved the climate, and there is good gold there.

[@FallofftheMap]

Speaking of gold deposits… in the mountains in the north near a town called la Merced de Buenos Aires there has been a major gold discovery. I have 91 hectares up there that has not yet been explored for gold, but the moment gold was discovered in the area the guy that sold it to me tried to buy it back and the municipality raised the valuation by 250% because everyone in the area seems to assume that my land has gold. I don’t have the means to legally exploit any gold deposits there. It would require someone with a lot of money behind them to navigate the regulatory complexities of mining in Ecuador.

[@ninjagenjin9510]

Good man❤

[@jayparsons6005]

Sir, Ecuadorian wife and I bought property in Puembo several years ago to build retirement home; however, with the current situation, we are on hold. During this interim period, we have discussed buying a small finca too. So, when we viewed your Why Ecuador? video we said to ourselves, "That's is pretty much what we want." Close to the capital, and the airport, and with fertile soil, and good climate for us to get out fingers dirty. Bottom line, can you give the name of the closest pueblo or zone where you found your little bit of paradise? Thanking you in advance for your time.

[@FallofftheMap]

There are several nearby towns such as Puéllaro, Perucho, Atahualpa, and Chavezpamba. This area is called the Ruta Escondida because the network of backroads here are how the Incan general Atahualpa escaped from the conquistadors.

[@davidburke2697]

I've been in China for 11 years. I gotta go soon as I'm too old for the Chinese work visa. Ecuador is a great option.

[@FallofftheMap]

I didn’t know the Chinese work visa had an age limit.

[@101life9]

Luxurious living😊

[@FallofftheMap]

All about perspective

[@anndrake492]

wonderful video! Looks serene. I envy you. I have lived in California, farming, most of my life and the cost of living is crippling.

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, even back in 2010 before prices went crazy the cost of living in Washington State was too much for me. It made me depressed to work all the time just to survive. I’m glad I made the decision to move out of the US when I did.

[@fluffy5534]

Hi: enjoy your videos. Question: can you grow the hot red chili Peppers in your farm? I was in Mercado the other day and found the dry hot red chili peppers expensive. Another question: do pomegranate, sour cherries, and persimmons grow in your farm? Selling pomegranate juice, dry sour cherries and dry persimmons can bring an excellent income. You can sell them in health food stores and your own online store.

[@FallofftheMap]

Thanks for your questions. I grow two types of hot peppers here, rocoto peppers love this climate and fortunately they are my favorite hot pepper. I also grow some sort of chile pepper that has a decent amount of kick but a boring flavor in my opinion. I have not yet attempted pomegranate or sour cherries. I suspect pomegranate would do well here.

[@luisaceo00]

Love these videos! Out of curiosity, what is your plan with the plot of land in Napo?

[@FallofftheMap]

Great question. My plan is to take this cattle pasture with exhausted soils and plant mostly balsa and bamboo. I want to demonstrate a way to make some money from the land while also restoring the environment. I hope the balsa crop will support the taxes a d maintenance on the land while I protect the 1/2 of the land that is still forested. I hope the bamboo crop will generate a little income. I will also raise tilapia and have a a small food forest of assorted fruit trees.

[@jayparsons6005]

Sir, Per my note of about 5 minutes ago..... I see that you answered my question in a previous post.... Ruta Escondida. Best regards,

[@FallofftheMap]

Yes, Ruta Escondida, similar elevation and climate, and not far from where you are, though a significantly different vibe and local culture.

[@mathewmeihofer7456]

I currently live in Ecuador as well, I am a American Resident, But my wife is Ecuadorian, And we are in the process of trying to legalize our marriage in Ecuador, and I gotta say, The Ecuadorian people are so friendly, and yeah I think the Media likes to blow up how dangerous it is, and to me, I feel safe here, it's safer here then living in a American city full of drugs and crime

[@FallofftheMap]

Ah, you’ll want to avoid my most recent video then where I talk about the newly released 2023 crime statistics and my friend that was murdered on her farm in Ecuador. By the numbers Ecuador’s homicide rate is now 8 times higher than the US, and higher than any other country in South America… yes, Ecuador shot past even Venezuela in homicides per capita last year.

[@angelofamillionyears4599]

Thanks

[@FallofftheMap]

Welcome

[@YogaBlissDance]

Good for you! Every country has problems. that sounds like a high price for land though.

[@FallofftheMap]

It is a high price for land, but not for this particular land.

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

I enjoyed Colombia the times I was there for work, great food and lots of nice people alongside the beautiful countryside, 1000% understand why you stay in Ecuador alongside the relatively low cost of living for a family.

[@FallofftheMap]

Colombia was a close second when I was deciding where to live.

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

@@FallofftheMap Nice

[@msbeecee1]

Colombia is 2nd on my list, too... because cost of living is slightly higher and it's part of NATO. I also want 2nd passport, and I'm not sure abt their process w that, or taxes

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

@@msbeecee1 Taxes aren't bad from other expats I know that live there, not totally sure on the process though, certainly something worth researching.

[@queen452010]

Colombia has gotten extremely expensive, I’m from there wanted to buy some land but the prices of housing and land are out of site even for us living in the USA , could be caused also by the invasion the country is going through, as everywhere else. 😡

[@mauimixer6040]

Thanks for sharing the truth.

[@FallofftheMap]

You’re welcome. I do my best to present my reality honestly.

[@ADONAIsays-so]

Thanks!

[@FallofftheMap]

Welcome!

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

Im glad you are making Real videos about the safety in Ecuador. Ive wanted to go to Ecuador for years. The farthest south I've ever been is Guatemala in 1978. I really want to visit & perhaps retire there. Im retired now. I am a single woman & will be traveling alone. PS Do your kids go to school there?

[@FallofftheMap]

Yes, my kids are in a private school in Quito. School is are biggest monthly expense and it’s been challenging finding a school we can afford that meets our expectations.

[@estelamino6356]

Gracias x compartir tu campo y experiencias...que siembrans...???,🇪🇨

[@joshuataylor1642]

I enjoyed your video and found it very informative. From what I have heard the “crisis” in Ecuador isn’t much different than we are used to in the USA. We have our high crime cities as well. Really interested in eventually moving to Ecuador if I can ever talk my wife into it. Really considering Cotacachi or someplace about that size but close to Cuenca. I really like the temp highs in the high 60s to low 70s. Got any recommendations? Would hope to buy about 30 acres or more wherever I end up.

[@FallofftheMap]

There are some areas no far from Cuenca that I like. In the Yungilla valley none of the towns were quite Cotacatchi size, but you’re close enough to Cuenca that you can just go there for things like medical care and shopping. Like Cotacatchi, it has an expat community and real estate is a bit more expensive there. I also really like Chordeleg. That small town has something about it that reminds me of Cotacatchi. Both of these areas are going to require a significant investment to buy 30 acres because they are popular retirement areas for both Ecuadorians and foreigners.

[@joshuataylor1642]

@@FallofftheMap thank you for the help and advice.

[@muntiibaiului1276]

Thanks for the interesting video. Really beautiful nature! Best wishes to you from Dnipro, Ukraine!

[@FallofftheMap]

Best wishes to you as well. Stay safe out there.

[@muntiibaiului1276]

@@FallofftheMap Thank you!!!!!

[@christopherkirwan7999]

Great content hermano! I've been going to Ecuador since the 70's. Looking to relocate from US. The people are so amazing there! Extraño Ecuador! Check out Abundant Living Ecuador... looking to meet Jesse and the crew. It would be great to connect with you as well.

[@FallofftheMap]

I’ve been watching their channel and talking to them. They suggested I sit in on one of their videos.

[@msbeecee1]

​@FallofftheMap pls do!! I think they're great and ur along same lines! Seem very compatible. I like that u have experience from different areas of Ecuador. U would get lots of new subs from appearing on the channels of others. I'm arriving Cuenca end of March for solo retirement.

[@larrypicard8802]

I wanted to go to Puerto Lopez for whale watching (I live in Cuenca) but given all that's happened I'll postpone that for a bit.

[@FallofftheMap]

I heard rumors that Puerto Lopez was experiencing a bit more trouble than most of the smaller towns on the coast. Specifically, there were rumors circulating that opportunistic locals seized te moment to start extorting tourists by charging a $10 fee to use the beach and charging taxis a $30 month fee to operate in the city. Not necessarily mafia connected extortionists, but corrupt locals that were sympathetic to the cartels and saw an opportunity in the chaos. I don’t know how valid these rumors are and haven’t been able to get any first hand news from the town to confirm or deny.

[@furrfurr]

I was in PL the last 10 days and everything was fine

[@furrfurr]

​@FallofftheMap all rumors. Was just there and none of that was going on

[@FallofftheMap]

@@furrfurr good to hear. Was something I heard from my Ecuadorian wife. Perhaps it was sort of true but only in the first few days of this conflict or perhaps it was something dreamed up by the Ecuadorian rumor mill.

[@furrfurr]

@FallofftheMap Love Ecuador and the people. Been going there for 20 years and wishing them the best as they work through this

[@tadatomalinakloans5995]

Great to hear your thoughts. But your acre seems surprisingly expensive. That's comparable to an acre of tillable Iowa farmland.

[@FallofftheMap]

Yes, as I mentioned this is expensive for Ecuadorian land. It’s 90 minutes from the capital city and less than an hour from the international airport. That definitely makes it an unfair comparison to Iowa. Think of the cost of an acre of farmland 90 minutes outside of Washington DC. Developers would be driving up the price. Similar thing is happening here, and farmland is being turned into expensive homes about 5 km from here. Also, Iowa farmland is cheap because the economics of starting a farm there are brutal due to the operating costs. Here, water, labor, electricity, and taxes are cheap and because you can grow high value crops like avocados there is a lot of investment driving up land costs.

[@bjwilson669]

Hi. I noticed the barb wire around your farm. I’m just curious what creatures you’re trying to keeping out? I just discovered your channel as I’m planning a trip to Ecuador this March, and your recent videos came up when I was researching the current situation. Thanks for your perspective. It’s much appreciated.

[@FallofftheMap]

The barbwire fence is to keep out horses, cows, and one particular old woman with some sort of developmental disability that liked to take items whenever she cut across my property.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

To keep the bad guys out?

[@jaliscoguanajuatotravelsan5679]

Thanks for video. Expats in Lake Chapala are too prideful to admit there is crime. They downplay it when it happens. Many crimes go unreported but it is still a safe place to be.

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, there’s a lot of that sense of denial here too, especially for expats that bought in relatively expensive coastal areas that are now extremely high crime.

[@jdsantibanez]

I am Ecuadorian, living in Guayaquil. My electric bill is around $40!! He, he. Nice meeting you!I

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, this particular area has cheaper than average electricity and significantly cheaper water. I also don’t use much electricity. Most moths I just have the minimum bill possible to run a couple lights and my internet.

[@msbeecee1]

Yes the inflation here in USA is horrible and no way could I *ever* retire here. I'm ready to take the leap. I will probably end up in Cuenca, Catacochi or Loja or Vilcabamba. Even though there are the local bad spots in Ecuador, I value: - it being overall geopolitically off the radar (not a part of NATO), - overall food & energy security, - the new President, - the climate, - excellent Healthcare - lack of inflation is HUGE for any retiree - rock bottom cost of living 🎉

[@sburger1685]

Have you ever been there? I have. I liked it. Not Quito so much. Vilcabamba was beautiful.

[@CheerfulDragon703]

I lived in Loja, Southern Ecuador for 7 years……it was WONDERFUL. Amazing friendly, caring people, extremely manageable cost of living. If I were younger, I’d still be living there, but my children thought it would be better for all of us if I were closer to them, so here I am, an expat Ecuadorean.

[@msbeecee1]

@CheerfulDragon703 hey! So where are u living now ? Glad to hear good things abt Loja. I'm so excited to go to Ecuador. I feel like there's so much great diversity in the country I won't be able to pick where I wanna live!

[@CheerfulDragon703]

@@msbeecee1 yhv

[@msbeecee1]

@CheerfulDragon703 what's yhv ?

[@georgebalaur]

Beautiful landscape! Congratulations ! What is the name of this village?

[@FallofftheMap]

The area is known as the Ruta Escondida. I deliberately avoid naming the nearest towns and villages because I have a family and kidnapping is a concern in Ecuador.

[@jvin248]

Looks great. Get some Tomatillo seed and grow your own. They are easier to grow than Tomatoes and are more durable. Save your own seeds and replant each season.

[@FallofftheMap]

Tomatillos are absolutely 💯part of the plan.

[@castingseedsministries9183]

Just wondering what part of the Napo you are planning to move too? I too live in the Napo. Peaceful and quite here. Love living in the jungle!

[@FallofftheMap]

So I’m not planning on moving out there, but rather starting a reforestation project, setting up a food forest, and tilapia pond. I hope to keep the forested part wild and expand it a little, plant balsa and bamboo on most of what is currently cattle pasture, and plant thousands of fruit trees. I might hire a caretaker or I might try to find volunteers that want to live there in exchange for a few hours of work per week to care for the land. It’s about 30 minutes south of Tena and 3 km from the awkwardly named town of Carlos Julio Arosemena Tola. I love that area for visiting and vacations, but I prefer to live in a cooler climate.

[@Anomaly66666]

​@@FallofftheMapdo you speak their language?

[@FallofftheMap]

@@Anomaly66666 I speak Spanish, yes. I don’t speak Kichwa, the indigenous language that is also spoken in the area.

[@jimhilstad5227]

I lived in Equator as a kid, I love the country. I went to school at the Alliance academy in Quito. It is a wonderful school. Where do your kids go?

[@FallofftheMap]

As much as I would love to share where my kids go to school, that isn’t something I can put out in public on the internet. I can mention that they used to go to the USA Academy but that school seems to have gone downhill in the last few years.

[@jimhilstad5227]

I had friends that went to the USA academy but that was many years ago. I hope you stay safe in this troubled time.

[@FallofftheMap]

My kids used to go there. It was ok a few years ago but in the last couple years went downhill.

[@BibleSamurai]

what do you think about living in stand alone properties in rural community vs living in the city or gated community in terms of safety, robberies, etc?

[@FallofftheMap]

My personal preference is for independent rural property, but it absolutely requires a lot of research because you’re definitely more vulnerable if you find yourself with bad neighbors. Most expats here go the other route and buy in residential gated communities or condos with a secure entrance. It really depends on your needs.

[@spanishwithrobyn]

Hi, I live in Ecuador. I live where the property is expensive, of course not as much as the US. You mentioned the cost to build your house, but you didn't mention the cost for property like yours more or less. I can get a very small lot that could fit one small house without a yard for 18k or I can get a large piece that would fit 6 small lots for 85k. I am super curious about costs near you. Thank you!🎉

[@FallofftheMap]

I did mention the cost for this half hectare. It was $16500. I also mentioned the price for the 14.5 hectares I’m in the process of buying in Napo province, $22500. I tend to negotiate hard and buy cheap. If I see a property for sale for 20k, I offer 10k and don’t budge much on my offer. I negotiate like an Ecuadorian abuela in the mercado.

[@carola4452]

​@@FallofftheMap😂😂😂..

[@cerebral-liberty]

I lived in Ecuador,the city of Manta in 2003, i worked as an English teacher & earned $250 American/month , rent was $80 for my own apartment, it was enough ,just.

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, if you’re renting it would have been hard to live on $250 even back then. I was offered $300 to teach in Canoa in 2013. I turned it down. At that time the cheapest rent I could have found in town was $150.

[@ruolov1]

Ok. I want to visit your farmland in Ecuador. I live in the US and the Northeast. I'm a bit tired of spending most of my life in the winter. That looks like Switzerland of Ecuador. The weather in either South America and Southeast Asia are the best for health reasons. I would need a trusted, property manager if I have to build out of the country. Though, I'm not comfortable with filming if I get a property in another country for safety and security reasons.

[@FallofftheMap]

I let this comment sit here for a bit before responding. I am careful about putting too much out there online. Perhaps we could meet somewhere like a café to hash out the details.

[@tonytillman316]

What would be the best way to look for property in Ecuador? Where can you see the properties available? We were there last August and we feel in love with this country…we have been thinking seriously about researching moving there..

[@FallofftheMap]

The best online resource for looking at property is FB marketplace simply because it’s the most popular. The best way to find good deals is to rent in the area you’re considering and talk to people in the community.

[@brandonwoodley5198]

Love it man. I want to be your neighbor 🤔

[@FallofftheMap]

That would be cool

[@brandonwoodley5198]

Truly appreciate your honesty

[@mountaindreamer7883]

Interesting, very interesting. I would like to travel more of South America, but don’t speak Spanish. Maybe someday, sure looks beautiful

[@FallofftheMap]

When I first arrived in Ecuador I had very little Spanish. I could order an “almuerzo” and ask “¿Dónde está baño?” That was about it. You quickly learn to communicate with creativity, humor, and patience. Putting yourself in that situation is a great way to learn quickly. It’s actually kind of fun being in a situation where you don’t know the language. It removes a lot of social pressure to be normal and instead you can just step back and observe the sea of humanity flowing around you. It’s later when you know how to speak Spanish but have a frustratingly small vocabulary that it becomes more challenging because that’s when there is an expectation to understand and be understood.

[@ecuarazongmailcom]

Do you learn Spanish

[@FallofftheMap]

@@ecuarazongmailcom Puedo hablar y entender español, pero todavía estoy aprendiendo a comunicarme de manera más efectiva.

[@ff11dream]

❤

[@rogerkenworthy6380]

Great info, thanks. What about healthcare - cost? Cheers Roger

[@FallofftheMap]

Healthcare is super affordable and very accessible, but you get what you pay for. I pay out of pocket and for a typical doctor’s visit it costs between $15 and $30. I recently crashed my motorcycle. My MRI cost $120, if I remember right. I paid $60 for X-rays. I need knee surgery to reattach my ACL. Costs were quoted at 5 to 10k here. I’m traveling to Bogota Colombia to get my surgery done for 3.5k with a more experienced surgeon who was highly recommended. Medical standards in Ecuador are not as high as I would like.

[@rogerkenworthy6380]

Thanks for this information. That's really cheap!! I'm a rider as well and you took a nasty spill. All the best for your upcoming knee surgery. R@@FallofftheMap

[@jayklink851]

👍👍

[@egds64]

Hi, great advice to consider. Where are you currently located: town/province/city?? Thanks a lot!!

[@FallofftheMap]

Well, today I’m in Mompichi in the infamous Esmeraldas province, but I’m just here for a few days. My farm is in Pichincha province near the Ruta Escondida about 90 minutes NE of Quito. When I’m not on the farm I’m in Quito (I maintain an apartment there to be close to good schools for my kids).

[@kathywilson9257]

Ecuador´s problems seem miniscule compared to what is going on in the US.

[@FallofftheMap]

I would not go that far. Ecuador’s problems feel like an extension of what is going on in the US, a fragile economy, rampant crime, ugly solutions that are outright authoritarian, lack of faith in public institutions and society as a whole.

[@wendyfielding5649]

Can you tell me anything about Ibarra ? I still want to move there.

[@FallofftheMap]

I’ve spent a bit of time in Ibarra but I don’t consider myself knowledgeable enough to give educated advice about the city. I love the climate there and the cost of living is low even by Ecuadorian standards. It’s not far from the Colombian border and border cities always have an ugly undertone. It’s ethnically very mixed with a lot of Afro-Ecuadorians, Colombians, and Venezuelan refugees. The architecture, history, and parks are spectacular. The original conquistadors in Ibarra were Basque and seeded the city with a slightly different culture than other parts of Ecuador.

[@jerrystraka7856]

the first thing i learned as a journalism student was....."if it bleeds, it leads" that's what's being reported sadly. I live in Cuenca. absolutely love it. i'm a disabled retiree with limited income and couldn't afford the U.S. but i left because of the proliferation of guns and violence, not cost of living Cuenca is very safe, great climate, friendliest people, and the food - the food, oh so good!

[@FallofftheMap]

Yeah, I really wanted to move to or near Cuenca but my family’s attachments to Quito caused me to stay up north. It really is a wonderful city.

[@jerrystraka7856]

@@FallofftheMap anywhere in the Andes in Ecuador is beautiful and "tranquilo". the coast is different. but i've always been a mountain man (35+ years living in NW Montana)

[@tracycrouse8470]

I miss those views!

[@romgl4513]

And the song!

[@FallofftheMap]

The song at the beginning is by Buena Vista Social Club but slowed down and run through a cathedral filter.