An Expat Talks about Moving to Salinas, Ecuador

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Salinas

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Three things I wish I had brought were tools, paper products and body wash. Three things I wish I had left at home were many of my shoes, blankets, and hair products (not necessary to do anything but a pony tail)

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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

This is not for everyone so take your time and pick the place you love don't settle. Bring as many of your current household items to make it feel like home and not a beach rental. It will make all the difference in the world. Ask questions to everyone you meet in the area. They will give you honest answers on the pro and cons of the area.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a condo and the majority of the expats here are in the same.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

We came to Ecuador 4 times and fell in love with Salinas. We had a realtor help us find our new condo.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

They are much lower. The average cost is hard to say because the range is so broad depending on what you want. I will say the property taxes are 1% of the purchase price per year.