Retiring In Ecuador
For many years in a row, Ecuador has been on the top of the list of retirement destinations around the world. This is no surprise considering it has one of the nicest climates in the world, world-class healthcare, the official currency is the US dollar, seniors have many benefits, and the cost of living is a fraction of what it is in North America. Also, Ecuadorians are characterized by many as the kindest and friendliest people in Latin America. As a plus for LGBTQ retirees, Ecuador is one of the few nations in America that offers constitutional protections and marriage equality.
Regardless if you’re single or married, gay, straight or anywhere in between, thinking about retirement is probably one of the most stressful moments in life: Will I have enough money to survive without having to work? Will I have to move abroad to get a better bang for my buck? If I do, can I get equal or better health care? Thousands and thousands of North Americans move every year in the search of greener pastures for their golden years, and they have all gone through these same questions at some point. Their personal stories and candid experiences can be a reflexion of what could be in store for you.
For example, Dennis C. from Tennessee retired in 2019 after 19 years in his last job, and after carefully vetting 9 options, he now calls Cuenca his home. He reflects: “I marvel at the gift of the beautiful friends I’ve made here”. He spends his well-earned retirement time learning Spanish through poetry, writing research papers for fun, and enjoying every waterfall, Inca ruin and traditional snack along the way.
After vacationing in Ecuador for 4 times, Phil C. and his husband Tim moved to Cotacachi in 2015 with nothing but their clothes. They sold and donated all their earthly belongings and never looked back. “The absolute best decision and move I’ve ever made”, Phil says. “I think Americans underestimate how easy it is to find everything you need, there really is no need to bring anything”.
If you’re retiring soon, or still have a few years to go, here are a few recommendations on how to approach this life-changing decision:
1. Do your homework. Search the web for specialized resources like Live Abroad Now or International Living, which have a ton of information about Ecuador and its different cities for retirees. There are also many magazine articles and blogs about first-hand experiences from expats. If you prefer a more direct connection via social media, chat with others that have been through the process by joining online forums like the ‘Gay Expats Living in Ecuador‘ Facebook group or ExpatExchange.
2. Test the waters. Visit the country first on vacation. Scout a few different cities (large like Quito, medium like Cuenca or Manta, or small like Cotacachi) and different regions (city vs. mountains vs. beach) to look for the right fit for you when it comes to climate, society, and even food. Enjoy the sights, but try to immerse yourself into the culture, see the pretty and not-so-pretty areas.
3. Don’t buy real estate right away. Once you’ve chosen a location where you want to buy your potential forever home, come back when you’re ready and rent a place first for a few months to get acquainted with aspects that you may have overseen as a tourist: transportation, safety, closeness of essentials, etc. Take your time.
4. Let professionals help you every step. There are a few LGBTQ-owned/friendly businesses that can advise you regarding travel (wink wink), visas, real estate, and even the idiosyncrasies of your new chosen homeland. Finding professional help is not difficult, it’s economic, and more importantly, you will have someone local to help you navigate the beginnings of your new life.
Whether it’s the fun cruise port of Manta, the hustle and bustle of the capital Quito, the peaceful mountain landscapes of Cotacachi, or the colonial charm of Cuenca, Ecuador has earned its right to be a top contender as a retirement destination for many LGBTQ singles, couples and families with it’s unmatchable mix of economics, geography and human connection. Over 100,000 North American expats currently reside in Ecuador. We invite you to talk to us about our exploratory tours to the most popular retirement cities and towns in the country, or to let us work with you on a custom trip that fits your needs and wants, whether you come by yourself, with your other half, or a group of friends or family.
To learn why so many foreigners retire in Ecuador and where, read this article. You can also visit the Retirement section of our FAQs.
Dennis C. enjoying the amazing landscapes of the Azuay province near his home in Cuenca.