Salinas, Ecuador

"Expat retirees should be aware that healthcare in Salinas can be limited and may not meet the standards of many Western countries. It may be useful to secure private health insurance. The local currency is the U.S. Dollar so exchanging foreign currency may not be necessary. Salinas is fairly remote, so public transportation is limited and having a car is highly recommended. As with most places in Ecuador, the climate is very warm and the sun is strong. Expats should be sure to use plenty of sunscreen and drink plenty of water to avoid heat-related illnesses," commented one expat who made the move to Salinas, Ecuador.

"Do not listen to anyone initially, feel the place out first and make sure you enjoy the area. When buying or renting a place such as apartments be careful of all Brokers, even the Licensed, who both I and our friends have seen on many occasions add 20% or more to the costs and who also try to get paid both sides, by in effect charging innocent foreigners much more, where as if you deal with owners directly you will pay less! Brokers means that they are more broke than you so be CAREFUL. I recommend either Tucasaecuador.com on line or their magazine you can buy in the main Shopping center or in Petrol stations. Personally we bought from the Best Tower in Town the PHOENIX LUXURY TOWER who were in this magazine in front of the Banco Pacifico on the second street in Salinas which has over 9 nationalities based there and found that in dealing with the OWNER we got the best and fairest deal and no broker crap trap! They have suites, medium and large apartments but are over 80% sold now," remarked one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador.

"Get to know the place before you commit, as everywhere else, you have to like the place with its pros and cons. In getting a place for rent or purchase, stick to licensed real estate brokers as there are many "unofficial" brokers who will get you in trouble... guaranteed. I was a victim of one of them until I contacted the Coldwell Banker people. As far as I go, they are the only professionals I trust," wrote one member in Salinas.