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Ecuador is greater than only a nation; it’s a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and alternatives. From the Andean highlands to the Pacific coast, Ecuador affords a various vary of life and settings. Deciding on the right place to name residence on this vibrant nation will be each thrilling and difficult. To help you on this journey, I’ve crafted this information on the very best locations to reside in Ecuador.
Having traveled extensively by Ecuador, I can vouch for its astonishing variety and wonder. From the majestic peaks surrounding Quito to the tranquil seashores of Salinas, and from the historic attraction of Cuenca to the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador’s selection is unparalleled. Whether or not you’re captivated by the attract of the Andes, the tranquility of coastal cities, or the dynamic ambiance of its cities, there’s a spot in Ecuador that feels tailored for you.
However the place to start? The perfect location varies for everybody. Some could prioritize cultural richness, others would possibly search pure magnificence, and for a lot of, affordability is a key consideration.
Be part of me as I delve into the very best locations to reside in Ecuador, tailor-made to a variety of preferences and wishes. As somebody who has skilled the numerous sides of this enchanting nation, I’m right here to information you thru Ecuador’s finest residing locations. I’ve examined analysis, analyzed statistics, and listened to locals to compile a complete listing that caters to numerous life and budgets. Let’s embark on this journey!
The Finest Locations to Reside in Ecuador
Desirous to uncover probably the most fascinating locations to reside in Ecuador? Nestled between Colombia and Peru, Ecuador affords a kaleidoscope of residing choices. Learn on to find the very best locations to reside in Ecuador, the place there’s really one thing for each life-style and choice.
Are you in the hunt for the best place to name residence in Ecuador? Located alongside the equator, this stunning place in South America is able to meet your numerous residing necessities.
- Finest for Cultural Richness: Cuenca
- Finest for Nature Lovers: Intag Valley
- Finest for City Life: Quito
- Finest for Seaside Fans: Montanita
- Finest for Distinctive Wildlife: Galapagos Islands
- Finest for Metropolis and Seaside Combo: Guayaquil
- Finest for Eco-Pleasant Residing: Bahia De Caraquez
- Finest for Tranquil Retirement: Cotacachi
- Finest for Well being and Wellness: Vilcabamba
- Finest for Genuine Native Expertise: San Clemente
- Finest for Seaside City Residing: Manta
- Finest for Stress-free Coastal Life: Salinas
Listed below are all the very best spots to reside in Ecuador that it’s best to take into account:
1. Cuenca
Getting into Cuenca, you’re greeted with a mix of historic attraction and trendy comforts. This metropolis, perched excessive within the Ecuadorian Andes, combines reasonably priced residing with wealthy cultural experiences. Think about wandering by streets lined with colonial-era buildings, the legacy of Spanish settlers who arrived in 1557. Cuenca’s UNESCO-recognized middle is a vibrant tapestry of historical past and up to date arts, the place every nook reveals a brand new story.
For these looking for an energetic life-style, Cuenca affords extra than simply scenic views. The town is a hub for varied out of doors adventures, set towards the backdrop of the Andes. Its gentle local weather is a year-round invitation to discover. And with regards to connectivity, Cuenca doesn’t disappoint, boasting well-developed transport and a pleasant ambiance for all, together with LGBTQ+ areas.
Nonetheless, Cuenca isn’t with out its challenges. Web pace can lag, and the bustling streets generally result in visitors woes. However these are small costs to pay for the town’s attraction. In Cuenca, one finds a stability between tranquil highland life and a vibrant city neighborhood, making it among the finest locations to reside in Ecuador.
Life right here affords a uncommon mixture of tranquility and cultural richness, a mixture that’s onerous to seek out elsewhere. It’s no marvel Cuenca is commonly hailed as the very best metropolis to reside in Ecuador for individuals who respect a slower tempo of life however nonetheless crave a way of neighborhood and cultural depth.
2. Intag Valley
Nestled within the coronary heart of Ecuador’s Andean mountains, the Intag Valley is a hidden gem for nature lovers. Think about a spot the place the air is full of the aroma of espresso, and the luxurious greenery of the Intag Cloud Forest Reserve stretches so far as the attention can see. This area, with its excessive biodiversity, is a paradise for individuals who crave journey and a deep reference to nature.
The valley’s distant location makes it a really perfect retreat from the hustle of metropolis life. Right here, life strikes at a slower tempo, inviting you to savor every second. The small communities in Intag are welcoming, fostering a way of belonging amongst each locals and newcomers. It’s an space that speaks to the guts of these looking for tranquility and a connection to the pure world, really one of many coolest locations to reside in Ecuador.
Residing in Intag Valley comes with its challenges, although. The climate will be chilly, and the provision of medical care and concrete facilities is restricted. But, these are small trade-offs for the serenity and wonder this distinctive location affords.
Intag Valley stands out not only for its breathtaking surroundings but additionally for its dedication to sustainability and environmental preservation. It’s a haven for individuals who worth a way of life in concord with nature, incomes its place as considered one of Ecuador’s finest cities to reside for eco-conscious people.
3. Quito
Excessive within the Andes, the place the air is crisp and the historical past runs deep, sits Quito. Ecuador’s capital is a mosaic of old-world attraction and trendy dynamism. Based on Inca ruins, the town boasts a UNESCO-recognized historic middle, brimming with colonial structure and cultural treasures. It’s a spot the place the previous and current dance collectively within the streets.
This metropolis isn’t nearly its historical past, although. Quito pulses with life, providing a variety of actions for each curiosity. From bustling markets to tranquil parks, there’s all the time one thing to discover. The town’s numerous neighborhoods, just like the hip La Mariscal and serene Cumbayá, supply distinct experiences, every with its personal taste.
However Quito’s charms include challenges. Site visitors congestion and variable web speeds are a part of metropolis residing right here. But, these are minor inconveniences in a metropolis that gives a lot vibrancy and variety. It’s an city adventurer’s playground, one of many finest locations in South America to reside in for individuals who love the power of metropolis life.
Quito, with its wealthy heritage and dynamic life-style, embodies the spirit of Ecuador. It’s not only a metropolis however a residing museum, a neighborhood, and a hub of innovation. For city explorers and tradition lovers, Quito stands as a pleasant metropolis to reside in Ecuador’s bustling coronary heart, providing an expertise unmatched by some other.
4. Montanita
Think about a spot the place the ocean’s rhythm units the tempo of life. That is Montanita, a coastal city the place the spirit of journey thrives. As soon as a sleepy fishing village, Montanita has reworked right into a vibrant hotspot for surfers and seaside lovers from across the globe. Its sandy shores and legendary waves create a paradise for individuals who reside to experience the surf.
Montanita’s attraction lies in its laid-back ambiance. Right here, life revolves across the seaside, with days spent browsing or basking within the solar. As night time falls, the city comes alive with a bustling get together scene, providing a mix of native tradition and worldwide vibes. The city’s hippie roots are nonetheless palpable, including a singular taste to its already eclectic character.
This idyllic seaside city has its downsides, although. Restricted facilities and a small nomad neighborhood is perhaps a downside for some. However for these looking for a sun-drenched haven with a contact of bohemian aptitude, Montanita is unmatched. It’s among the finest locations to reside in Ecuador for seaside lovers and free spirits.
In Montanita, on daily basis is a chance to embrace the laid-back seaside life-style. It’s a spot the place life’s pleasures are savored, making it a finest place to reside in Ecuador for individuals who yearn for countless summers and the liberty of the ocean’s waves.
5. Galapagos Islands
Embark on a journey to the Galapagos Islands, a South American gem, the place nature’s wonders take middle stage. This archipelago, famed for its distinctive wildlife and dramatic landscapes, affords an expertise like no different. Residing among the many numerous species that impressed Darwin’s concept of evolution is each a privilege and an journey.
The Galapagos is just not your typical tropical paradise. Right here, the wonder lies within the uncooked, volcanic terrain and the unbelievable biodiversity. Life on these islands is a mix of simplicity and discovery, with every day providing new insights into the pure world. The principle hubs of human exercise, like Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, present a quaint, small-town really feel amidst this wild setting.
Whereas the islands supply an unmatched connection to nature, residing right here comes with its challenges. The distant location means restricted facilities and a better value of residing. However for these enthusiastic about wildlife and conservation, the Galapagos is among the good locations to reside in Ecuador.
Residing within the Galapagos is greater than only a residency; it’s a dedication to being a part of a fragile ecological stability. It’s a uncommon alternative to be on the forefront of environmental stewardship, making the Galapagos not only a residence, however a life-changing expertise, and certainly, considered one of Ecuador’s finest locations to reside for these devoted to nature and its preservation.
6. Guayaquil
As Ecuador’s bustling port metropolis, Guayaquil affords a vibrant mix of city life and cultural variety. The town’s heartbeat is its riverfront, the place the fashionable meets the historic, making a full of life ambiance. Guayaquil, based in 1538, has developed right into a dynamic city middle, residence to a mix of colourful neighborhoods, from inventive Las Peñas to the thriving industrial hubs.
This metropolis is a melting pot of experiences. It boasts a wealthy array of seafood, a rising music scene, and a cultural panorama that’s as numerous as its inhabitants. The sense of neighborhood right here is palpable, making it simple to type lasting connections. Guayaquil serves as a gateway to the Galapagos, including to its attract as a hub for exploration and journey.
Nonetheless, life in Guayaquil isn’t with out its challenges. The language barrier and gradual web are a part of the expertise, however they pale compared to the town’s attraction. For individuals who thrive in full of life city settings, Guayaquil stands out as among the finest areas to reside in Ecuador.
Guayaquil is greater than only a metropolis; it’s a canvas of experiences ready to be explored. It’s a spot the place on daily basis is a chance to immerse in new adventures, making it a terrific place to reside in Ecuador for these looking for a life filled with vibrancy and variety.
7. Bahia De Caraquez
Image a serene coastal metropolis the place nature and tradition converge. Bahia De Caraquez, with its beautiful seashores and wealthy historical past, affords a tranquil retreat from the fast-paced world. This metropolis, set on a sandy peninsula, has emerged as a favourite amongst these looking for a harmonious mix of seaside residing and ecological mindfulness.
The town’s attraction lies in its restoration and resilience. Following an earthquake in 2016, Bahia De Caraquez has been rebuilding with a give attention to sustainable residing and eco-tourism. This dedication to the surroundings is obvious in each facet of life right here, from the structure to the native delicacies, making it a mannequin for eco-friendly residing.
Nonetheless, Bahia De Caraquez is not only about sustainability. It’s a hub for nature lovers, providing easy accessibility to the Isla Corazon Wildlife Refuge and its plentiful mangroves. The native culinary scene, well-known for its ceviche and peanut soup, provides to the town’s attract.
This distinctive mixture of pure magnificence, environmental consciousness, and cultural richness makes Bahia De Caraquez considered one of Ecuador’s finest locations to reside. It’s a metropolis that not solely embraces its previous however seems ahead to a sustainable future, embodying what it means to reside in concord with nature. For these looking for a peaceable, eco-conscious life-style, Bahia De Caraquez is a the place is the very best place to reside in Ecuador.
8. Cotacachi
Nestled in a picturesque valley, Cotacachi captivates with its beautiful mountain vistas and tranquil streets. This small city, as soon as recognized for its leather-based merchandise, has blossomed right into a haven for these looking for a peaceable but vibrant neighborhood. Its year-round spring-like local weather and scenic magnificence are drawing expats from across the globe, making a melting pot of cultures and concepts.
Cotacachi’s attraction is in its simplicity and heat. The city is sufficiently small to keep up a close-knit neighborhood really feel, but it’s bustling with actions, from native eateries serving numerous cuisines to social golf equipment catering to varied pursuits. The stability of native custom and expat affect makes on daily basis in Cotacachi a singular expertise.
Residing right here means embracing a slower tempo of life. The city is right for individuals who discover solace in nature and pleasure in small-town camaraderie. Whereas it might not have the hustle of a metropolis, Cotacachi affords a high quality of life that’s onerous to seek out elsewhere.
This mix of pure magnificence, cultural variety, and neighborhood spirit positions Cotacachi as one of the crucial livable cities in Ecuador. For these dreaming of a quiet life amidst beautiful landscapes, Cotacachi stands out as a spot to maneuver in Ecuador. It’s a spot the place life’s less complicated pleasures are celebrated day by day.
9. Vilcabamba
Within the southern area of Ecuador lies Vilcabamba, a valley famend for its idyllic local weather and serene landscapes. Sometimes called the “Valley of Longevity,” this enchanting space is a sanctuary for these looking for a more healthy, extra relaxed life-style. Its decrease elevation, in comparison with Cuenca, affords a hotter local weather, excellent for out of doors lovers and nature lovers.
Vilcabamba’s attract is its mix of pure magnificence and a laid-back life-style. The city is small, fostering a detailed neighborhood vibe the place neighbors turn out to be pals. It’s a spot the place time appears to decelerate, permitting residents to savor each second. The clear, contemporary air, straight from the Amazon, provides to the sense of well-being that permeates this quaint city.
Life right here is about simplicity and connection. Residents can develop their meals, relishing the style of freshness that solely homegrown produce can supply. The neighborhood is tight-knit, with about 500 expats integrating seamlessly into native life.
For these looking for a tranquil retreat, Vilcabamba is a hidden gem. It’s among the finest cities to reside in Ecuador for its unmatched tranquility and pure magnificence. In Vilcabamba, life is an uninterrupted circulation of peaceable days, making it a finest Ecuador city to reside for these wanting to flee the frenzy of recent life.
10. San Clemente
Uncover the quiet attraction of San Clemente, a quaint fishing village situated simply south of Bahia de Caraquez. This small city affords a peaceable escape, excellent for individuals who treasure a laid-back, easygoing life-style. Right here, the neighborhood spirit is robust, and the heat of the Ecuadorian folks is ever-present, making it a really perfect vacation spot for these looking for a less complicated lifestyle.
San Clemente’s magnificence lies in its simplicity and the enjoyment of on a regular basis pleasures. The absence of bustling metropolis facilities is greater than compensated for by pristine seashores and the tranquil rhythm of coastal residing. The city’s Spanglish-speaking neighborhood provides a singular cultural mix, fostering an surroundings the place locals and expats mingle seamlessly.
Life right here revolves round nature’s clock, with walks on the seaside and contemporary, chemical-free meals being a part of day by day routines. The occasional inconveniences, like energy outages, are small trade-offs for the well being advantages and stress-free surroundings that San Clemente supplies.
For these trying to step away from the quick tempo of recent residing, San Clemente is a gem. It’s among the finest Ecuador cities for a wholesome, relaxed life-style. This charming village stands out as a what are the very best locations to reside in Ecuador, particularly for these eager to embrace a life in tune with nature’s rhythms.
11. Manta
Manta, Ecuador’s largest seaport, is a thriving coastal metropolis combining the attraction of a seaside city with the vibrancy of city life. It’s recognized for its dry, arid local weather, making it an interesting vacation spot for individuals who get pleasure from sunny days and out of doors actions. Manta’s development as a creating metropolis affords a stability of recent conveniences and relaxed seaside residing.
In Manta, the tempo of life is excellent. Site visitors is uncommon, and the streets are extra pedestrian-friendly in comparison with bigger cities. The neighborhood right here is welcoming, with a mix of locals and expats contributing to the town’s numerous cultural tapestry. Whether or not it’s strolling alongside the seaside or exploring the bustling marketplaces, Manta affords a wealthy, genuine expertise.
This metropolis isn’t nearly rest; it’s a spot of alternative. Its strategic location and rising financial system make Manta a really perfect spot for business-minded people. And for leisure, the town’s proximity to stunning seashores and its array of eating and leisure choices make on daily basis a brand new journey.
Manta represents the right combine of labor and play, making it one of many prime cities in Ecuador to reside. For these looking for a coastal life-style with the perks of city residing, Manta is a standout alternative, a finest Ecuador metropolis for a balanced, fulfilling life.
12. Salinas
Salinas, a coastal gem in Ecuador, greets you with its balmy climate and picturesque ocean views. Recognized for its welcoming neighborhood and vibrant expat presence, this metropolis is a mix of leisure and native attraction. With a inhabitants round 50,000, Salinas affords a comfortable but full of life setting, excellent for these looking for a mix of rest and social engagement.
The town’s tempo is laid-back, with day by day life usually revolving across the beautiful seashores. Right here, you may take pleasure in contemporary seafood, get pleasure from out of doors markets, and take leisurely walks alongside the shore. Salinas strikes a stability between a stress-free life-style and the comfort of recent facilities, making it a really perfect spot for a relaxed but fulfilling life.
Past its pure magnificence, Salinas is understood for its pleasant locals and expat neighborhood, making a welcoming ambiance for newcomers. Making pals is straightforward, and the social scene is full of life, providing quite a few alternatives for engagement and leisure.
As a metropolis that embodies the coastal attraction of Ecuador, Salinas is among the finest cities to reside in Ecuador. It’s a spot the place life’s easy pleasures are loved to the fullest, making it a most livable metropolis in Ecuador for these looking for a serene but socially enriching surroundings.
Incessantly Requested Questions (FAQs) Concerning the Finest Locations to Reside in Ecuador
Considering studying extra in regards to the prime residing locations in Ecuador? Under are some incessantly requested questions on the very best locations to reside on this numerous nation, recognized for its wealthy cultural tapestry and pure magnificence.
What’s the most secure place to reside in Ecuador?
When contemplating security, Cuenca stands out as one of many most secure locations to reside in Ecuador. This metropolis is understood for its low crime charges and a powerful sense of neighborhood, making it a best choice for each expats and locals looking for a safe surroundings.
- Group Policing: Cuenca’s method to neighborhood policing contributes considerably to its security. The police are actively concerned locally, which helps keep a safe ambiance.
- Expatriate Group: The massive expat neighborhood in Cuenca additionally performs a task in security. There’s a shared sense of looking for each other, creating an additional layer of safety.
- Walkable Metropolis Format: The town’s structure, with its walkable streets and well-lit public areas, enhances the sensation of security, particularly within the historic middle.
- Emergency Providers: Cuenca boasts dependable emergency providers, guaranteeing fast responses to any security considerations or medical emergencies.
The place in Ecuador do most expats reside?
Ecuador has a number of expat hotspots, every attracting foreigners for varied causes, starting from local weather to life-style. The preferred areas amongst expats are:
- Cuenca: Recognized for its wealthy cultural heritage and reasonably priced residing, Cuenca is a magnet for expats. Its vibrant arts scene, high quality healthcare, and cozy local weather make it a best choice.
- Quito: Because the capital metropolis, Quito attracts expats with its mixture of historic attraction and trendy facilities. The town affords numerous neighborhoods, a thriving expat neighborhood, and quite a few cultural actions.
- Salinas: This coastal metropolis is favored for its stunning seashores and relaxed life-style. Salinas is particularly common amongst retirees and people on the lookout for a beachside residing expertise.
- Cotacachi: A small city recognized for its peaceable surroundings and scenic magnificence, Cotacachi has a rising neighborhood of expats attracted by its tranquility and decrease value of residing.
- Vilcabamba: Well-known for its “Valley of Longevity,” Vilcabamba attracts expats who search a more healthy life-style in a serene, pure setting.
These areas, referred to as among the finest Ecuador cities to reside in, supply numerous experiences, from city residing in Quito to the laid-back seaside life in Salinas, catering to a variety of preferences amongst expats.
What’s the finest place to retire in Ecuador?
For retirees looking for a really perfect mix of consolation, tradition, and affordability, Cuenca emerges as the very best place to retire in Ecuador. This metropolis’s attraction to retirees is predicated on a number of key elements:
- Inexpensive Price of Residing: Cuenca is widely known for its low value of residing, together with reasonably priced healthcare, housing, and day by day bills. This financial benefit permits retirees to get pleasure from a cushty life-style on a modest funds.
- Nice Local weather: The town’s gentle local weather is ideal for retirees, providing snug temperatures year-round with out the extremes of warmth or chilly.
- Expat Group: Cuenca has a well-established expat neighborhood, offering a way of familiarity and ease in transitioning to a brand new nation. This neighborhood is supportive, vibrant, and welcoming to newcomers.
- Cultural and Leisure Actions: Wealthy in cultural heritage, Cuenca affords quite a few museums, artwork galleries, and historic websites. Moreover, there are many leisure actions appropriate for all ages.
- Healthcare Providers: The town boasts high-quality healthcare providers, with well-equipped hospitals and expert medical professionals, guaranteeing retirees have entry to glorious well being care.
Can foreigners reside in Ecuador?
Sure, foreigners can reside in Ecuador, and lots of select to take action for varied causes, such because the reasonably priced value of residing, stunning landscapes, and pleasant tradition. Listed below are some key factors for foreigners contemplating a transfer to Ecuador:
- Residency Visas: Ecuador affords several types of residency visas for foreigners, together with retirement, investor, {and professional} visas. It’s necessary to decide on the correct visa class based mostly on particular person circumstances.
- Property Possession: Foreigners have the correct to personal property in Ecuador. This makes it simpler for expats to purchase houses and settle within the nation.
- Healthcare Entry: Ecuador supplies entry to high quality healthcare at an affordable value. Overseas residents can even enroll within the public healthcare system or go for personal medical insurance.
- Language and Tradition: Whereas Spanish is the first language, many expats reside comfortably with restricted Spanish, particularly in areas with giant expat communities. Studying the language, nonetheless, can improve the residing expertise.
- Numerous Places: From seaside cities like Salinas to mountain cities like Cuenca, Ecuador affords quite a lot of environments. This variety permits foreigners to decide on a location that most closely fits their preferences, making it a pleasant a part of Ecuador to settle in.
Can a foreigner get a job in Ecuador?
Sure, foreigners can safe employment in Ecuador, however there are particular issues and challenges to pay attention to:
- Work Visas: To legally work in Ecuador, foreigners should get hold of a piece visa. This course of sometimes entails having a job supply from an Ecuadorian employer who can sponsor the visa.
- Job Market: The job market will be aggressive, with precedence usually given to native residents. Nonetheless, there are sectors the place expats would possibly discover alternatives, corresponding to instructing English, tourism, and worldwide firms.
- Language Barrier: Proficiency in Spanish considerably will increase job prospects. Whereas English is spoken in some enterprise and vacationer areas, most employment alternatives require a very good command of Spanish.
- Networking and Group: Expats usually discover job alternatives by networking throughout the expat and native communities. On-line expat boards and native occasions will be precious for making connections.
- Self-Employment: Many foreigners in Ecuador go for self-employment or begin their very own companies. This route affords flexibility and could also be extra possible for these struggling to seek out conventional employment.
Is it simple to get a job in Ecuador as a foreigner?
Discovering a job in Ecuador as a foreigner will be difficult however not unimaginable. A number of elements affect the convenience of securing employment:
- Job Market Competitors: The job market in Ecuador is aggressive, with a choice for hiring locals resulting from regulatory and financial causes. Sectors like tourism, English instructing, and worldwide companies could supply extra alternatives for foreigners.
- Language Expertise: Fluency in Spanish is a major benefit. Jobs requiring solely English are restricted, primarily in instructing or in areas with a excessive focus of expats.
- Networking: Constructing a community is essential. Many job alternatives, particularly in smaller communities, are discovered by private connections slightly than formal job listings.
- Work Visa Necessities: Acquiring a piece visa requires having a job supply from an Ecuadorian employer. The method will be prolonged and requires assembly varied necessities.
- Various Employment Choices: Many expats discover success in self-employment, on-line freelancing, or beginning their very own companies in areas like hospitality, consulting, or on-line providers.
Last Ideas on the Finest Locations to Reside in Ecuador
Ecuador is a rustic of vibrant variety, providing a wealthy tapestry of life for each type of resident. From the historic streets of Cuenca to the luxurious landscapes of the Intag Valley, Ecuador presents a world of prospects. Whether or not you’re contemplating retirement, looking for a brand new journey, or on the lookout for a change of tempo, Ecuador has a spot that may really feel like residence.
For these aware of funds, cities like Vilcabamba and Cotacachi supply an reasonably priced life-style with out compromising on high quality or experiences. These places reveal that Ecuador could be a cost-effective alternative, with the correct stability of facilities and affordability. Conversely, for these drawn to the power of city life, cities like Quito and Guayaquil present countless alternatives for profession improvement and cultural immersion.
Happiness and livability are additionally key elements in Ecuador. Locations like Salinas and Bahia De Caraquez, with their preferrred mixture of pure magnificence and neighborhood residing, are sometimes touted as among the most livable places within the nation.
So, what are the very best locations to reside in Ecuador? The reply is as numerous as Ecuador itself. Finally, it is dependent upon what you worth most in your residing surroundings. Whether or not it’s the serene fantastic thing about beachside cities, the cultural richness of historic cities, or the quiet attraction of mountain villages, Ecuador is not only a spot to reside—it’s a way of life to embrace.
