Safety in Ecuador: Recent Events, Travel Advisories, and Insights From a Foreigner's Perspective

Let's discuss safety in Ecuador. Through exploring Ecuador's safety landscape, we'll delve into recent events, official travel advisories, local safety measures, and personal insights.
Post For This Video: thejazzynation.com/safety-in-...
Resources Mentioned:
Vice News (general articles about Ecuador): www.vice.com/en/topic/ecuador
Vice News Report: • Mexican Cartels, Cocai...
Washington Post Article: www.washingtonpost.com/busine...
Travel.State.Gov (Ecuador): travel.state.gov/content/trav...
Gov.UK: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-adv...
STEP Program: step.state.gov/STEPMobile/Def...
Work with me! thejazzynation.com/services
📹 Watch Next - Mindo, Ecuador Family Travel Vlog: • Exploring Mindo, Ecuad...
✨ My Favorite Things: thejazzynation.com/our-favori...
📕 Get My Free Guide for Working Abroad! thejazzynation.com/digital-pr...
Check out the blog for articles and so much more! thejazzynation.com
Let’s Connect:
Email: [e-mail]
Instagram: @thejazzynation | / thejazzynation
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/thejazzynation
🔔 Don't miss our adventures! Subscribe: bit.ly/3mZt5LH
💬 Sign up for My Weekly Newsletter: the-jazzy-nation.ck.page
✨ Let’s Chat: Have a question or comment about today’s video? Leave a comment
✨ What topic would you like me to cover next?
// Some More Of My Favs:
I love using Epidemic Sound for my music. Start your free trial here: bit.ly/42Ks8Mu
Our Amazon StoreFront Travel Essentials: www.amazon.com/shop/thejazzyn...
Camera Gear: amzn.to/42Ilh6q
// Check Out Some Of My Other Videos:
Ecuador: Expat Lifestyle Vlogs: bit.ly/3u0RZPh
Living In Morocco As A Black American Expat (A Typical Day In The Life): • Living In Morocco As A...
10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Ecuador: • 10 Things I Wish I Kne...
Living In India As An American Expat: • HONEST OPINION: Living...
Mindo, Ecuador Family Travel Vlog: • Exploring Mindo, Ecuad...
The Best Food I Ate In New Orleans, Louisiana: • The Best Food I Ate In...
Life As A Foreign Service Officer Living In Ecuador: • Life As A Foreign Serv...
// Table of Contents: TBA
#thejazzynation #expatlife
// About & This Channel
Our mission is to inspire you to create intentional moments through motherhood, travel, life abroad, and more!
I post new videos every week! Subscribe: bit.ly/3mZt5LH
More About Me: thejazzynation.com/about/
This video and description may contain affiliate links, meaning I'll receive a small commission if you click on one of the product links. I won't put anything I haven't verified and/or personally used myself here. Thank you for supporting my channel so I can continue creating free content for you every week.
Please be aware that the viewpoints shared in this content are those of The Jazzy Nation and do not represent the official stances of the State Department or the U.S. Government. We aim to equip you with knowledge and strategies to make informed choices about your safety during your time in Ecuador.

[@rvdareyet7201]

My opinion only, but the crime and violence here is just different than in the U.S. In Ecuador, the vast majority of violent crimes are linked to the drug trade, whereas in the States you are vulnerable to mass shootings and other "random" violent acts. I feel safer in Ecuador than I did in the States.

[@spark_6710]

I believe you're right !! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 years & I agree that this is the most dangerous developed/ richest country in the world !! There are too many crazy people in this beautiful country !! And other countries like Ecuador ,Nicragua ,etc are so much safer than U.S.in general. As long as we use good common sense there ,we'll be o.k. ! But,here it is not good enough often !! Because of those drive by shooting ,active shooter cases happen too often everywhere in this country !! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I believe you are right. Thank you for your comment.

[@jond181]

the biggest difference is that in the USA the police, judges, etc., are not for sale. Of course, it’s not perfect … but in Ecuador, the corruption w/ police, judges, etc is beyond repair …. according to independent news sources. The cartels hold all the power and therefore not only are you not safe (relatively speaking), neither is property or your money.

[@Popotla]

Thanks. I’ve been going to Ecuador for the last 25 years with my Ecuadorian wife. We’re astonished how much crime has gone up. Buén día

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for your comment. Will you be returning anytime soon?

[@wakeupstylellc]

I was born in Ecuador, been living in the U.S. for most my life. I am going back in a week, and the idea that now it’s more dangerous than what I remember, scares the 💩 out of me. I have family there, I’m sure they will keep me safe. But they tell me how things are now, compared to 30 years ago. I’m going with my oldest attire, no jewelry, barely any luggage. I am excited to see the cobblestone floors, and the beautiful volcanos, in the north of the country. Obviously excited to see my family. I can’t wait to buy some native Ecuadorian beaded accessories ❤ it’s going to be a bittersweet experience. Thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I truly hope you have a wonderful experience. Despite what is happening here, Ecuador is an amazing place.

[@alexandrialgardner]

Thank you for your great update on events in Ecuador. I was just there in December and sounds like things really have shifted significantly. I would definitely consider moving there. I was only there 2 weeks but definitely plan to spend more time in South America.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

You're very welcome. I hope the information I shared will be valuable to you if you decide to return one day.

[@Explorer63-k6d]

Thanks for your content.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

My pleasure!

[@rochellewilliams6399]

Thanks for this video. I've planned an 11-day solo trip to Ecuador. Because I was born and raised in L. A., and with the current state of our own nation, I've decided to go. Awareness is needed no matter where you go as is common sense. I'm enrolled in STEP and got my first alert! We're better off seeing the world and engaging in it rather than assuming we know everything. I'm excited for this adventure!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

You are so welcome. I hope your trip to Ecuador is/was a good one. Yes, the current state of our own nation is dangerous as well so I understand the need to get away. I’m glad that you were able to enroll in the STEP program and that you were doing all of the necessary things to keep yourself safe during your trip abroad.

[@rochellewilliams6399]

@@TheJazzyNation1 I'll be in Quito, Mindo, Otavalo and Banos next month. I'll be bingeing more videos.

[@lukeswain1752]

​@rochellewilliams6399 how did it go/how's it going for you?

[@rochellewilliams6399]

@@lukeswain1752 I had a fantastic time. I really didn't plan the trip as well as I could have, but it turned out beautifully. I stayed at locally owned lodgings, took the bus to all my destinations (except for Mindo, where I was put on the wrong bus, but wound up being just 20 minutes away) and met the kindest people there. The best parts of the trip were the interactions with those I met. I plan on going back, especially to spend time in the Amazon and more time in Banos (I only had two days). Given what I came back to (work, world, ugh!) I'm planning my next adventure. It was a time for rest, reflection and rejuvenation.

[@lukeswain1752]

@rochellewilliams6399 thanks for the info! Much appreciated. Did you feel safe? I hear it's been bad for a couple years down there. Can you speak Spanish, did you get by with English? Hope all is well!

[@krystelvalverde7976]

Thank you so much for this information. Its really helpful to receive information from a local verses biased news. Prayers and love for our beautiful Ecuador❤

[@TheJazzyNation1]

You are welcome! I am not a local but as an Expat, who has lived in Ecuador for two years. I am happy to share what I know and my opinion on what is happening. Thank you for watching.

[@thewayfarist]

Thank you for presenting this information with such thoughtfulness, clarity, and integrity. Public discourse on these sorts of issues (I’m from Chicago, so I’ve heard my fair share) are so often lead with pure emotion, and without fail it quickly becomes exhausting - and honestly a little heartbreaking to see so much offense and defense, but no real communication. Just know it’s refreshing to get a nuanced view without any sense of sensationalism. After listening to your take, I feel a little more prepared should I visit Ecuador anytime in the near future, as I hope to.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Hello! My apologies for the late reply. Thank you for watching my video. I am happy you felt this way after watching my video. I was very intentional in presenting the facts without being sensational. If you decide to visit Ecuador in the future, stay safe and enjoy your time here. Despite the current situations, Ecuador is truly a wonderful place.

[@jonathancun694]

Woaaaoooo muy interesante 😊

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I am glad you found it interesting.

[@MattCouzensMusic]

I've lived in Oakland and Philly...... I have definitely experience with everything you discussed here either directly or by my friends' first hand experiences. I know it's not the same, but I also feel undeterred because I have lived near major crime areas most of my adult life.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Yes, a lot of what we see can be a result of living in bigger cities. and your experiences and those of your friends are very valid and I hope you start to feel safe where you live soon.

[@Zabu_23]

Thank you so much for making this video. We are coming there in a month and have been scared to come wondering if we should cancel our trip. This has made me feel better about it. We will be with guided tour guides the whole time with sacha lodge. We will briefly be in Quito but will only be driving through there.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I’m glad this video was helpful and informative. Take care, be safe, and have a wonderful trip.

[@nenascriollo9057]

Excelente

[@TheJazzyNation1]

thank you for watching

[@magalydelpozo8963]

Me gusta 😊

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for watching

[@jandresmatailo4411]

Es una hermosura mi latinoamérica

[@TheJazzyNation1]

❤

[@whacked00]

It is so easy to assume that the United States is safe" when we evaluate other countries. I definitely am careful where I go and when in Denver. So, I think that is a truism everywhere. This may be totally wrong, but from what I have read and experienced when in Ecuador - I feel less likely to be assaulted when in Ecuador than the US - but more likely to be robbed. And I think mass shootings are more likely in the US.

[@ThePlairent-ev6dd]

Wow-great information! The safest place is under a rock unless someone steps on it. Continue to be safe 😘!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I hope no one assumes the U.S. is safe because it’s not always the case. That’s why it’s vital for me to always caveat that safety is not just something we need to be aware of when traveling or living in Ecuador or abroad. Unsafe occurrences happen in all countries, even in the United States. I am glad you feel less likely to be assaulted in Ecuador than in the U.S., but I’m sorry you feel more likely to be robbed. Mass shootings happen more in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world, from what I’ve read and seen.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for watching. Yes, anywhere in the world can be dangerous. That's why we must have good personal preparedness practices.

[@ThePlairent-ev6dd]

@@TheJazzyNation1 This certainly helps-thanks!

[@meowco69]

I would respond with this. Do you feel safe taking your child to the park in your neighborhood with the fear of being killed? Walking to a cafe and being assaulted with men with guns or knives with the police response lacking, are you afraid to walk outside your street in both the daytime and especially evening feeling like you have a target on your head, looking at every person around you like they may the person to do you or your family harm? Well that is life in Ecuador now. I have family living there who used to have ordinary lives. Nowadays it's go straight to work and go straight home. No one cares venturing outside. They fear speakjnf out with the risk of someone being tied to some narco.

[@celenehi1648]

Me gusta

[@TheJazzyNation1]

thanks!

[@lukeswain1752]

How is it down there now 3 months after you posted this? Thinking of heading down there for about 10 days some time in January. Thanks for the info!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Honestly, a lot better. I have felt comfortable traveling more and getting out into the city of Quito.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Enjoy your time here! Thank you for watching.

[@lukeswain1752]

@@TheJazzyNation1 good to hear. Thank you! Much appreciated 😁

[@ConnylisbethGil-pg3xc]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@TheJazzyNation1]

thank you for watching.

[@bibekghatak5860]

Very tragic situation !!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Yes. Thank you for watching.

[@noburlaXD]

❤

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for watching.

[@eduardor5899]

Lol my parents are Ecuadorian I love how everyone says “ecuador used to be a peaceful nation “ since I can remember ( I am 28) people (locals or Ecuadorians who immigrated ) always complained about corruption and crime.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for your comment. I would definitely love to hear more about this perspective as I can’t speak on it as an expat who has only lived in Ecuador for two years. I honor and respect the experiences of those who know more than I do especially as locals, so thank you for sharing.

[@mbwahaha]

That's a thing in Ecuador, it's like a sport, telling stories about something bad that happened to some random person a long time ago (so you must be careful). But now it feels different, not only becouse of the cartels and political corruption, but becouse of the inmigration that came in a very short period of time.

[@eduardor5899]

@@mbwahaha from my knowledge the immigration started getting out of hand 2015-2016 in Ecuador.

[@mbwahaha]

@@eduardor5899 Yes, but integrating 10% of the total population in less than 7 years is impossible, and I'm talking only about venezuelan migrants, but there has been a spike of Cubans, Colombians and Peruvians too. I can feel the change in Ecuador, not only in crime but in the behavior of the ecuadorians too, I'm really sad that the candid goodness of our society is getting lost.

[@eduardor5899]

@@mbwahaha you do realize this “change” in behavior of Ecuadorians is not unique to only Ecuador right. This change has happened world wide due to many factories , covid + different migrant crisis world wide . Even in USA. There’s a shift in the world.

[@levistidham9298]

could you do a summer 2024 update video

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I'll add it to my list of topics. But if I don't get to it or you are visiting soon. Send me an email to [e-mail] if you have any questions.

[@Ed_Gein]

Is Cuenca safe (r)? I was in Cancun a few years ago and being a tourist city, if tourists were afraid to come, that place would fold so they had armed security in grocery stores and meant business to protect the economy. I always felt safe there .

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I am sorry for the late reply. Friends have said they feel Cuenca is safer than other cities in Ecuador. I really enjoyed my time there.

[@LukYZee]

Hello! I was just wondering if you could comment on the safety from getting from quito to guayaquil. I am not staying in guayaquil but just need to go their for a flight. Is there a best safe bus option you know of?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I have only flown that route and it felt very safe.

[@PhoenixBeI]

Thank you for the video. Could you please be so kind as to let us know in which city you live? We're considering the Olón-Ayampe area between Manta and Salinas. We've been told that this area is safer, but it's hard to get local news from there, so I have no real way of knowing. I'm curious to see if you live in an area more or less prone to crime since that impacts my perception of the Olón-Ayampe region. Thanks!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I live in Quito.

[@D33Lux]

What are the defence laws and availability of firearms for defence in Ecuador?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

I don’t know the defense laws but I have hear rumors of recent change. It would be a good topic to research.

[@user-mg7eu4pb4z]

Megusta

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you!

[@BPe-ie9je]

Really great! Thank you, Jazzy. Buy a small container of mace. Practice, once, around corner of building , wind to your back. Long pin like strong stream, so you know how to use. Carry in your pocket, or around your neck. You show you have that, is a HUGE deterant, if needed. Cheap. When I moved to Denver, Colo, years ago, rape was a massive probllem in Denver. The police gave mace in leather bound mace keychain holders out ($5.) to women.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you so much I’ve never been one to carry around mace so I will consider it!

[@BPe-ie9je]

@@TheJazzyNation1 It has a unique safety cap/ Your little boy wouldnt be able to spray it. I highly recommend. Just putting it in your fist, obvious, in sight would be huge deterant. I'm getting one or two, the day or two after arriving in Ecuador. (You cannot fly with them. I took mine in Denver to DIA a few times, by mistake on business flts, and I had to go into basement, check it in with Security. Pick up when I got back. . ooops! )

[@david.t7336]

Que dice

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for watching

[@spark_6710]

I do remember that news !! When it came to my feed ! So sad ! I don't know anything about the presidential hopeful candidate got assasinated !! How awful !! Looking like 1960's !! I hate that !! So sad.💔💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Yes! It was sad. Thank yo for watching and commenting.

[@spark_6710]

@TheJazzyNation1 Thanks you so much for the video & your replies !! 🙏💕👍💜

[@et1221a]

Why can't you say those words at 3:34 ?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Because the video will be at risk of being taken down by KZbin due to harmful or triggering language.

[@et1221a]

I think you're being a little too cautious, no? I doubt just relating general facts would get your channel taken down. It's not like the video is titled "how to do armed robbery in Ecuador". Many people, self included, are seeking up-to-date info on the safety of moving to Ecuador.@@TheJazzyNation1

[@darrellandsondraholden9457]

u-tube, I mean word police, why can't this lady say homicide, gunpoint, etc?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

No, I cannot.

[@wawacameroon]

Because certain words are flagged and could result in the video being flagged and taken down.

[@prestongarvey1344]

Aint no playground in ecuador especially since the start of the year shit aint a joke dont go to ecuador if you dont have to especially if you aint ecuadorian

[@TheJazzyNation1]

That’s an interesting perspective. Thanks for watching.

[@diegoandrade1736]

Estafa

[@betainc4315]

Te escribieron también a ti?

[@diegoandrade1736]

@@betainc4315 si supuestamente me pagarían $5 por darle like a este y otros 4 videos

[@charliealay]

​@@diegoandrade1736a mi me escribieron por lo mismo pero tengo una duda, responda

[@TheJazzyNation1]

thank you for watching.

[@bhavanova2849]

“He was unalive last week”?! 😅

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thanks for taking time out of your day to watch. Take care.

[@planetag310]

"Un-alived"? How about 'assassinated'?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

The document I shared said that but I can’t say that word in speech form or else the video will be taken down.

[@Anonimo-qp8ip]

Bery nicel country ( dont go ) to mmuch .......

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thanks for watching

[@eddy9027]

do you feel you are a prisoner in a beatiful jail ?

[@TheJazzyNation1]

No.

[@darrellandsondraholden9457]

do you folks at u-tube really think that if you don't allow certain words to be used, that it really makes a difference? well, maybe y'all enjoy trying to control people's lives.

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Yes, they don't allow certain words.

[@pangchweeijn3607]

Avoid ecuador at all cost till things get better

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you for watching.

[@bhavanova2849]

So much editing … I don’t feel more informed. And I certainly don’t “feel safer”!

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thanks for taking time out of your day to watch. Take care.

[@user-ym1op6dr8r]

Me gusta

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you!

[@jhonfranciscojeencham.kaje6221]

Me gusta

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thanks for watching.

[@mayrachiriguayo1826]

Me gusta

[@TheJazzyNation1]

Thank you!