Moving to Loja, Ecuador

"We are retired and wanted a change from the U.S. at least for a few years, perhaps longer. That being the case we considered and visited several countries. We came to Ecuador at the start of August spent some time in Guayaquil which we liked and enjoyed and then moved on to Loja our target city. We absolutely love Loja, have rented an apartment and have started on our papers. Jona Poma of Life in Loja has assisted us greatly in showing us around the city and even found our apartment for us. Maite Duran of Gringo Visa is looking after our visas. Loja is a very walkable city so we wonder around daily to the markets, the parks and enjoy the artwork and monuments of the city. The people have been very pleasant and accepting of us and recognize us when we visit their market stalls, restaurants etc. People we pass on the street greet us and we respond with our limited Spanish. This is not North America and yes service can be slow. You have to learn how to work with it as the pace here is indeed slower. Come and see and decide for yourself. We love it here in Ecuador and hope that you will too. Good luck," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

"Loja is a city known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Before moving to Loja, expats should know that Spanish is the primary language spoken, so it would be beneficial to learn the language or at least basic phrases. The cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it's important to understand that salaries are also lower. Loja's climate is mild and spring-like year-round, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. The city is located in the Andean highlands, so altitude sickness can be a concern for some people. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate to the altitude. Loja is a safe city with a low crime rate, but like anywhere, it's important to take basic safety precautions. Healthcare in Loja is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available, but health insurance is recommended. The city is known for its music and arts scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. It's also home to the National University of Loja, making it a vibrant student city. Public transportation is widely available and affordable in Loja. However, driving can be challenging due to the hilly terrain and narrow streets. Ecuador uses the US dollar as its currency, so there's no need to worry about exchange rates. However, it's important to note that credit cards are not widely accepted in smaller establishments, so carrying cash is advisable. Finally, Ecuador has strict customs regulations, especially for bringing pets and certain goods into the country. It's recommended to check these regulations before moving," said one expat in Loja.