What should I pack when moving to Ecuador?
We asked people living in Ecuador to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...
"I like to cook so I did take my professional kitchen knives with me ( in my checked luggage ) along with a well-aged, well-traveled cast iron skillet but other than those two items and a couple of items I always carry ( ie. a Leatherman Wave ) and my laptop and tablet, everything else was easily purchased here. When my wife and I furnished our home, I was amazed to find how inexpensive good quality furniture and appliances were - with some serious shopping and a bit of price haggling. Save yourself the grief and aggravation. You can buy good kitchenware here - cheaper than in the States _ even your Cuisinart, Juicer, Coffe Maker, Crock Pot, etc., etc. The few dollars difference is negligible against the price of shipping from the States," wrote a member who made the move to Machala, Ecuador.
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"I brought almost nothing and certainly nothing extra. Two checked bags and a carry-on. And in that luggage was a plunge-router for my Father-in-law, two espresso machines (I wish I'd brought gaskets) a waffle iron, and lots of favorite kitchen things. Spare parts of anything where sourcing is an issue. I wish I'd brought a couple of second-hand iPhones. I brought one but lost it to a pickpocket on the trolley in Quito. Electronics are a must if you use them. Spares are worth it as replacing them is neither cheap nor easy. There are lots of culinary ingredients that aren't readily available but I'm gradually finding them or learning how to make them. Things like hoisin sauce and horseradish and black bean sauce and curry paste. The availability of wonderful locally grown produce (both fruit and veggies) is one of the richnesses of Ecuador, but for whatever inexplicable reason the local cuisine is very bland and though reasonably healthy (though on the greasy side), lacks any pizzazz, or even much interest. I've always cooked because I love food, but now it is for survival and to keep my tastebuds from atrophying," explained one expat living in Cotacachi, Ecuador.
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Other Questions:
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- Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador?
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What should I pack when moving to Ecuador?
If you live in Ecuador, newcomers to Ecuador would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
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.