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Ecuador | Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador? | Expat Exchange
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La Chocolatera, the westernmost Point in Ecuador is located in Salinas

Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador?

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We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered...

"¡Cuidado! That's the watchword. For many expats, unfamiliar with the language and customs of a foreign country, the experience of living in a "foreign" city or town can be disquieting and possibly downright scary. Learning the language, getting to know the people and customs ( and not locking oneself away in an English-speaking compound ), and practicing common sense regarding personal security can go a long way in ensuring a peaceful and pleasant life in that country. Yes, Ecuador has changed in the past few years, due to the major influx of Venezuelan refugees, a stagnant economy, and the proliferation of Mexican and Colombian drug mafias. There are areas in my city where I no longer feel comfortable walking at night. I find myself much more cautious than when I first began to live here full-time ... but of course, I'm 11 years older now, and aware of my physical limitations. Still, I wouldn't trade my life or lifestyle for all the money in the world or all the tea in China. For those of you living here, planning to move here, or just wanting to visit our beautiful and diverse country ... Come enjoy the life and lifestyle. Have fun! Love and laugh! But ... take the rose-colored glasses off and ... ¡CUIDADO," remarked another expat in Machala, Ecuador.

"Yes, there is some crime in Ecuador. Though it is not as prevalent as in some other Latin American countries, crime does occur, including theft, pickpocketing, assault and mugging. Additionally, there is organized crime related to international drug trafficking. Violent crime tends to be concentrated in some of the larger cities and tourists should exercise caution when travelling in certain areas," said a member in Ecuador.

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Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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!
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Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador?

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

La Chocolatera, the westernmost Point in Ecuador is located in Salinas

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