Manta, Ecuador
An Expat Talks about Retiring in Manta , Ecuador
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Manta
Why did you choose to retire abroad?
I have traveled through work domestically and internationally so I am accustomed to making changes or adjustments. I decided to live abroad during my retirement not only for lower cost but for seeing as much of the world as possible. I lived in Mexico, France , England, Colombia, and now Ecuador. I have traveled to 24 countries and hope to add a few more as long as I can stay healthy.
Are you retired abroad all year or part of the year?
All year
Why did you choose the country you retired to?
Ecuador was next on my travel list and after living in Mexico for 3 years with the 3rd year during the Pandemic. I was ready to see more of South America. I was also looking for a cooler climate with an affordable lifestyle equivalent to my life in Mexico.
Did you ever live abroad before you retired abroad?
Yes. I lived in London, Bogota, Brittany, and Puerto Vallarta.
How long have you lived abroad since you retired abroad?
4 years
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How many countries (other than your home country) have you lived in as a retiree?
Five
What have been the most challenging aspects of being retired abroad?
Learning the language is first. But trying to maneuver logistics like where to live, shop, visas, and adjusting to differences on ways things are done, ie wait times for repairs and quality control meaning that if you buy something — food, service or products they are never the same.
What have been the most rewarding aspects of being retired abroad?
I enjoy the respect older people are given. You can board flights first. Get in special lines at banks and grocery stores and you get discounts on prescriptions, utilities and transportation.
What would you do differently if you were just starting the retire abroad process?
Nothing
What is life like for a retiree in your city and its surroundings? (Is there an active expat community? Cultural Attractions? Recreation? Nightlife?)
There is a very active expat community. There are lots of activities and meet ups. You can find music, decent restaurants and cool beaches. Pretty much whatever you need is in Ecuador.
What residency documents or visas did you need to obtain to retire in your host country? How difficult was this process? (Please describe)
Temporary residency visa. I used a lawyer to process the paperwork. The process was easier than Mexico.
Did you buy a home or apartment, or rent one? Is this a difficult process? (Please describe)
Rent for now
Financially, has living abroad in your host country met your expectations? Exceeded them?
Exceeded
What are the most important financial considerations for retiring to your host country?
Finding modern housing with reasonable rents.
How much can a retiree live on comfortably in your host country?
Very comfortable Under 2,000. It depends on where you live — mountains or beach.
Do you have access to quality medical care? (Please describe - is it close? Expensive?)
Yes. I had an issue when I fist moved here. A doctor visit cost $40. I paid $40 for a nutritionist and $70 for a cardiologist included an EKG. Full lab cost $70. Excellent care and follow up. I was able to communicate directly using WhatsApp and they spoke English. I now have the national health insurance for $75 per month.
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With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaWith Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Is there a lot of crime where you live? (Please describe)
Not at all. Some petty crime but you have to be vigilant just like any other place in the world.
Describe available transportation where you live. Do you need a car? Is there access to safe public transportation?
Good buses. Depends on where you live city, mountains, small towns. I use taxis due to Covid.
Is there high-speed internet access where you live?
Internet is good. High speed is available
Do you have any other thoughts you would like to share about retiring abroad?
Visit for awhile before you choose your new home. Don’t come and try to make things like your home country. You are a guest and should respect the laws and customs. No where is perfect. Accept the good and the bad. Most of all don’t bring your negative political views and stop complaining about what you can’t find.
