What do people like (and dislike) about Machala?
When we asked expats and global nomads what they like and dislike about living in Machala, they replied...
"I've lived here in Machala for over 10 years and although I'm very happy here, I'll be the first to say that it's not everyone's cup of tea. City services are surprisingly efficient and the cost of living - even for a growing city - is much more affordable than in a tourist destination city like Cuenca, or ex-pat meccas like Vilcabamba or Salinas. On the negative side ( depending on your expectations ) Machala is NOT a tourist destination. It is the second-largest port city in Ecuador and is a distinct blend of working-class and executive middle class people. Crime is high - particularly in and around the port area ( Puerto Bolívar ) and other less salubrious areas of the city but less rampant than in most U.S. cities this size ( 250,000+ est. pop. ). There's no conclave of English-speaking residents. A "working" knowledge of Spanish is really a must. No beach in this coastal city but there are a couple of Islas that you can boat-taxi out to if you want to spend a day at the beach and plenty of river "beaches" a short drive from the city center. The people here are hard-working, friendly, open, and for the most part very honest folks. They are always willing to help and once befriended, they'll be friends for life. All of us here are rich but none of us has any money," said another expat in Machala, Ecuador.
"it is a nice walking city because there are NO hills and lots to see. Ocean and beaches near by, weather is very consistent, very few insects and the people are great. There is no airport nearby, closest is in Guayaquill, therefore i met very few expats in my daily life. The city, pop of 250k+-, is very clean," wrote a member who made the move to Machala, Ecuador.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Machala?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Machala?
- Will I be able to find a job in Machala?
- What is life like in Machala?
- What do expats in Machala appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Machala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Machala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Machala like?
- What are healthcare services like in Machala?
- What are medical services in Machala like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Machala?
- What are emergency services like in Machala?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Machala?
- How are local medical facilities in Machala?
- As a foreigner living in Machala, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do people like (and dislike) about Machala?
If you live in Machala, newcomers to Machala would love to hear your answer to this question:
