Ecuador Crisis Follow-Up, Answering Your Questions and Responding to Comments

Рет қаралды 7,287

Күн бұрын

Answering questions and responding to comments from my last couple videos about the crisis in Ecuador and the current crime wave and war against the mafias.
Specifically answering the logical question, why don’t I just move back to America and escape this narco war?
Additional relevant search terms: falloffthemap, fall off the map, expats in Ecuador, expat life, nomad life, Ecuador conflict, Quito, Noboa, how safe is Ecuador, how dangerous is Ecuador, #ecuador #expat #crisis

Пікірлер: 268

@michelledemers9312 5 ай бұрын

I run a Facebook group for Expats in Cuenca. I'm new to Cuenca myself. I visited for the first time from February 2023-June 2023 and decided to apply for my Ecuadorian Visa. I was granted a visa, but I already had committed to work here in the United States. So I have been planning my return to Ecuador in mid-late March / early April 2024. That was going to be the beginning of a longer-term stay (finishing out the time on my current 2-year visa and potentially renewing for another 2 years). I was coming for the lower cost of living as well as healthcare to take care of some things, so I was looking at Ecuador as my home for the next 5 years, maybe longer. Now I'm unsure. This situation has got me wondering if I should reconsider going to a different country for safety reasons. What is your advice to people who have not yet moved to Ecuador? Would you suggest they look at other countries? Or come to Ecuador with caution? Because I run a group of expats and those who want to be, I have people asking me the same question. Personally, I was never planning on living in Ecuador the rest of my life (I'm 50), as I know others are who are older and retiring and were looking at Ecuador as their last home (the place they'd live until they died). Perhaps the answer to that question is different depending on the reasons and circumstances of the move. Love to know your thoughts.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

That is the million dollar question right now. Of course the answer is different for different people. Cuenca is still one of the safest places in Ecuador. My friends and other KZfaqrs that live there mostly seem to think that it’s safe, and based on their experiences there many seem to believe the rest of Ecuador is safe as well (a mistaken assumption) and that this is being blown out of proportion by the media. Each person has their own level of risk they are willing to accept and there is always the possibility that Cuenca’s little bubble of safety will pop. My guess is that Ecuador will get through this but that it will take more time than many hope and that it will never be a complete victory over the cartels, but that eventually everywhere except places like Esmeraldas and Guayaquil will return to being safe enough for most folks. I also think the relationship between Ecuador and the U.S. will grow much stronger because of Noboa’s influence and popularity. As Ecuador fights the cartels here they will be pushed into neighboring countries. Already the frequency of murders of foreign tourists shot up in Colombia towards the end of last year. This sort of violence and instability can happen anywhere in Latin America at any time. For me, Ecuador still feels like the right choice, though I wish family ties hadn’t forced me to choose this part of Ecuador. If I was making the decision alone I would have chosen one of the valleys near Cuenca or Loja. If I was in your shoes, looking for a temporary home somewhere, I might be inclined to choose somewhere in SEA, like Thailand or Cambodia. I spent time exploring and living in Asia before choosing Ecuador and opted to keep looking because of complicated land ownership laws, lower life expectancy (in the places I could afford), and more concerns about disease. I was also just coming out of Afghanistan and wanted something far from any part of the world that frequently gets dragged into wars. That said, I think expats that move to SEA generally have fewer regrets than expats in Latin America, meaning it’s more likely to be a good fit for more people especially for those that focus on crime more than other types of safety.

@a.alexandrajimenez8437 5 ай бұрын

I came to the United States very young but have returned to Ecuador at least six times to visit my cousins. Last year, I went twice in one year and learned to love more my birth country. Since my previous visit, I have been watching more Ecuadorian news and keeping updated with the situation. The amount of knowledge you have about Ecuadorian politics is incredible to me. You are correct in your analysis of Ecuador. Ecuador is such a beautiful country; the excellent food, but the violence made me change my mind about spending too much time there. I truly admire your courage to live there with the family. Stay safe.☺

@genearbogast7525 5 ай бұрын

I finally pulled the "trigger" at a late age in part because of your videos from Mcmurdo......Once you go.. It's hard to go back. The disconnect is instant. At first it's geographic.. then it becomes emotional and spiritual. Thank You Sir it has been and continues to be a grand adventure.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Awesome. I hope you never regret it. I remember once a few years ago in Afghanistan a young Bosnian contractor running up to me and introducing himself. He had watched my videos about overseas contracting and I was responsible for putting the idea in his head and eventually getting a job in Afghanistan. It was a weird feeling because teaching and encouraging people to live this sort of live of adventure is not without some risk of leading someone into danger. I still think about that guy and hope it let him to a similar life of adventure where all the close calls are nothing more serious than that.

@genearbogast7525 5 ай бұрын

No regrets. We all pay a price for our decisions...It is a much heavier burden to bear not to have made a decision at all....@@FallofftheMap

@perfectlylonely 5 ай бұрын

I'm 80 y/o. The USA was a wonderful place to grow up. I'm enjoying SA.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Yeah, I think my generation growing up in the 80s and 90s got the last good moments to be a kid in America.

@TheXone7 4 ай бұрын

God the Lord bless you and protect you and your family! Greetings from Slovakia!

@dianamayfield5615 5 ай бұрын

Thank you for another perspective. I have been preparing to make the move to Ecuador as my retirement home for the past several years. I knew 20 years ago that I wanted to leave the US and quickly eliminated the Caribbean and Southern Europe, but continued to hear good things about a country, I had never visited or even, quite frankly wanted to. I did finally make two trips totaling about 3 months, met a number of wonderful people, who have become dear long-distance friends, and fell in love with the southern Sierra. The death of my fiance, COVID-19, major sudden health issues of my own, and more have delayed me for almost 7 years. Finally, I was ready and preparing to sell my home and make the move this Spring. Then all hell broke loose in my wonderful Ecuador. I'm now torn. The general consensus seems to be to wait a few months, to see if Noboa can bring about the peace he's aiming for. So far, I'm getting mixed opinions. What do you think about single, senior woman making the leap? Pretend, I am your crazy aunt, asking your advice. What do you think?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

If you were my crazy aunt I would ask you to come stay with me. Ecuador will always be a bit unstable and hectic. Given the specifics of the situation you described I would still make the leap. I would fly to Cuenca and spend time in that relatively safe city to get the lay of the land. Then, depending on conditions in the ground I might venture out into some of Ecuador’s safest rural areas in the south of the country near Cuenca, Loja, and Vilcabamba.

@dianamayfield5615 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Thanks. I do appreciate your opinion. Unlike some other KZfaqrs, you have no agenda and appear to have given more thought to the situation in Ecuador. Actually, I’ve decided to give it an extra month or so, but will continue with my plans to move. Heard today from some expat friends to who have been living near Salinas for close to 10 years that they are renting out their house and moving to the Sierra for a minimum of 6 months. Maybe longer. My Ecuadorian Cuenca friends want me to move near them. I love Cuenca, and will stop for a few weeks when I first arrive, but want a small finca at a lower altitude (too chilly for me). Loja friends are safe. Not so sure any longer about Vilcabamba. It seems to be very safe, but from here, it appears the expat atmosphere has shifted at bit since my last visit. Hmm. I’ll probably base in Vilca while looking for a permanent home somewhere closer to Malacatos. Once again, thanks for your prompt reply.

@Texasriogrande 5 ай бұрын

Love the channel ❤! Will be in Managua tonight. Nothing is better than exploring different countries. You are living a great life !!!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks. It sounds like you probably are as well.

@selimgure 5 ай бұрын

Looks so serene out there. I've been following the channel since the days of Antarctica and must say this one of the most attractive places you've been to.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Yeah, I looked long and hard for my little paradise. That is one of the many reasons I’m in no hurry to give up on Ecuador. 🇪🇨

@dagramirez 5 ай бұрын

Your information on the current situation in Ecuador is useful as some people like me used to live there or were planning to move there!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@chrismcfarland2494 4 ай бұрын

I love living in Ecuador. It’s such a better way of living here. In many ways simplicity is elegance.

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

I feel the same. For all its faults Ecuador is still a better place to live than anywhere else I’ve experienced. Many expats point to south east Asia as a better place, but the life expectancy there tells a different story. Crime is only one aspect to quality of life, health care, transportation and traffic accidents, disease, and social connectivity also matter and continue to tip the scales in favor of Ecuador despite the current crisis and levels of crime.

@AndreAndre-yd5gw 5 ай бұрын

Please don't say you are not qualified to comment on geopolitics. There are a lot of "experts" on television who probably gained their expertise during a 5 minute Wikipedia search and regurgitate popular mantras. The popular opinion is about as much right as main street winning the stockmarket. I appreciate input from those with boots and vested interest on the ground. Your opinion is highly valued. Thank you.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Man, that’s nice to read after waking up this morning to someone telling me not to comment on politics because I don’t know what I’m talking about.

@brotherbrovet1881 5 ай бұрын

@fall off the map, come visit Ozarkistan, brother. Southern Missouri. Lots of folks here are homesteading their families on a few acres. Gardens yield two harvests a year here. Twisti g, turning ....beautiful roads. I always smile when I drive. Drivers wave to each other as we pass each other here.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

There was a time when I was seriously considering the Tennessee hill country. Though, drivers there wave when they pass as an unconscious nod to a time when you showed your hand to demonstrate that you weren’t holding your gun and meant no harm. It’s an odd little piece of American body language I noticed when I was working in ND.

@darrellandsondraholden9457 5 ай бұрын

GOOD FOR YOU SIR FOR NOT GIVING OUT ANY DETAILS THAT YOU DON'T NEED TO GET INTO, AND FOR NOT GIVING OUT YOUR LOCATION.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Why are you shouting?

@TheXone7 4 ай бұрын

Excellent point with China...whoever reads the big politics situation behind the borders, does not blindly follow mainstream and understands the game behind sees this. Thank you for the enlightenment!

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

You’re welcome

@nickbali1534 5 ай бұрын

What's really going on around you is your lovely family and farm, that is your reality and much healthier for your peace of mind - what you focus on you will end up being sucked into, so I'd forget about all this external conflict stuff, unless you want to be part of it. If I were you I'd focus on your farm, growing your own organic food, constructing water harvesting stuff, composting, solar energy, etc, etc, etc; the list of positives is infinite, incredibly interesting and productive ---- Only a gentle suggestion 🙏

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

You know, you’re right. Thank you.

@user-ly4sq5uc5f 5 ай бұрын

Thanks for the reports. Former journalist, carpenter with my own business, created 2 conservation orgs. Now, at 68, semi retired and trying to make ends meet, I've been considering Ecuador for several years for comfortable, affordable retirement in Cuenca. But now? Good luck to you and your farm.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I wouldn’t count Ecuador out. I would carefully watch and study what is happening and keep it as a possible option. Conflicts like this scare away investors and suppress real estate prices. Those that buy low usually win in the long run. Cuenca has remained an island of safety and security throughout this crisis because it is a more educated and advanced city than most of Ecuador where the locals are less inclined to tolerate criminality.

@lashadow8 5 ай бұрын

Glad that you’re safe & living around so much beauty. Another great video!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks. I’m glad I’m living in such a beautiful place as well.

@MikeLlerena 5 ай бұрын

You know most of the people talk about their own experiences, and I respect that… however, the situation worldwide is kind of similar… everything will depend on your goals… I wouldn’t go back to the US because the salary in my field is crazy low and it isn’t safe at all, that is why exploring other alternatives is a lot better… Living in Russia, South Korea, China, Ecuador, Chile I would definitely stay in China for two reasons high well-paid salary and unbelievable sense of security…. But Ecuador in my heart… I will definitely go back. Ecuador is much more than what has happened lately… do not demonize or generalize the current situation… it will end soon. Keep working bro! Your videos are priceless.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thank you. What’s your industry that pays so well in China, out of curiosity?

@MikeLlerena 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Education and export and import…. As you might pretty well aware, the salary for teachers everywhere is kind of low but in Asia is a bit higher and the cost of living is relatively low… and not only that, but this sense of security, safety… it is unbelievably amazing.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@MikeLlerena that makes sense. I have family in education that also opted to teach in Asia. The difference in pay between here and S Korea is absurd. I spent 6 months in Busan and if it weren’t for the climate I’d be tempted to move there. Have you done any exporting to Ecuador? I’ve been curious about importing things from Alibaba to here but I can’t navigate the potential costs.

@MikeLlerena 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap wow..! If it wasn’t for the difference in Salary between China and South Korea I would have chosen South Korea… I love Busan… Such a wonderful city… Regarding the export, I’ve been doing some to Russia, but I would love to try doing it to Ecuador… I already have the contacts and the places, I just need the person there.

@commonman711 5 ай бұрын

Love what you got going man! Stay safe and keep progressing on the farm.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks.

@brandonwoodley5198 5 ай бұрын

Truly appreciate your honesty. Pray you and your family remain safe

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thank you.

@DaveG-qd6ug 5 ай бұрын

Not all who wander are lost. Godspeed !

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Not all who scratch their ass have an itch…

@LivingLovingAbroad 5 ай бұрын

Man oh man, you said it! Perspective is everything. Sure we had more in the US, but was my health and stress level worth it....NOPE.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

This. Exactly this. High paying job, great. Fear my kids might get shot at school, not so great. Upward mobility great. Losing everything the moment I have a health emergency and my insurance company drowns me I high priced lawyers… Not so great. Buying cheap electronics and designer clothes, great. Eating a microplastic cocktail of chemicals while sitting in traffic, not so great.

@kathybastianelli6982 5 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video! I never thought about the correlation on a global level. Makes a lot of sense! Stay safe, and glad you are back on your farm.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

You’re welcome.

@GMAceM 5 ай бұрын

Well said. Always remember that when you make videos to inform about any situation that there’s gonna be two responses (or more) that you’re gonna get. 1-A lot of people who are supportive and understand that you’re doing your best to give accurate information in regards to your situation and what you’ve been able to investigate (since you can’t be everywhere at once) 2-people who want to argue and say that you’re wrong or if you don’t like it then leave or X,Y,Z It’s the internet, you get used to things like that lol, just keep talking about what you think is important because I think (at least with this video and your week after update) you’re doing great and if anyone wanted to give their perspective on the situation, they’d have their own YT channel. Saludos de Portoviejo! 😁

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks. You’re absolutely right. I don’t really mind the folks that make trollish comments or just comment to criticize or argue. Sometimes I have a little fun commenting back and forth with them, other times I just mock them depending on how intelligent their comments were.

@worldwidesolotravel3400 5 ай бұрын

I live in the USA I’m Ecuadorian. Came when I was 10 years old- I was wondering How much money do some one needs to bring to move back to Ecuador and be stable.?.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

It’s a really difficult question to answer and extremely dependent on your particular circumstances and lifestyle expectations. The best I can do is explain my experiences and expenses. On one end of the spectrum, when I lived in a small town on the north coast and was there by myself, I spent $300 per month. I owned my house, but if I had to rent it would have probably only cost me $80 to $100 more. That was eating in restaurants twice a day, paying for power, internet, drinking water, an occasional bottle of aguardiente, and not much else. At the other end of the spectrum, living in Quito and sending two kids to a mid range private school I struggle to keep my monthly expenses between 2 and 3k.

@perfectlylonely 5 ай бұрын

The 6 months I've spent in Ecuador. Staying in seaside hotels. Eating out 1 or 2 meals a day $1500 to $1800 (depending on how often I travel).

@dosdas2060 5 ай бұрын

Enough to pay all the extortionists and you’ll be good

@worldwidesolotravel3400 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMapthanks for your input! It really helps !

@paddy2019 5 ай бұрын

Even prior to the opioid crisis, the lethal combo of the war on drugs plus the appetite for drugs created the extremely profitable market that allows cartels to exist today. The demand is there, and the risks associated with getting the drugs to the customers creates the insane amount of money to be made. I'm not sure if decriminalization/legalization is the answer, but the current system sure as hell doesn't work. In any case, be safe man.

@DanielBjorndahl 5 ай бұрын

Thanks for the updates, I agree with what you said about not being happy in the US. I moved out 3 years ago - now living in Colombia. If you're considering Colombia as your new home, it would be subject to more Ecuadoreans than just you making the move. Colombia with two neighboring countries in political anarchy would lead to a lot of pressure on Colombia...

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Interesting point. What part of Colombia to you live in/like best? I was really impressed with the Manizales area. It felt safer and more educated than most other areas and it wasn’t too big and hectic.

@Votixful 5 ай бұрын

Stay Safe. I love watching your videos.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks. I will definitely try to stay safe.

@marceloarboleda2980 5 ай бұрын

Your Insight is Fascinating Thank you 😅

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Glad you think so!

@DJTheMetalheadMercenary 5 ай бұрын

The plants are looking great brother!! I appreciate your updates and sentiments on the situation there, nice to hear some other squared away folks reached out too. Looking forward to the next one, all the best to you and the fam!!!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

There are a few folks whose comments cut through all the crap. Thanks for being one of them

@DJTheMetalheadMercenary 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Of course bro!! Cheers :)

@scooterdude17 5 ай бұрын

Where can you get kale seeds in Quito?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@scooterdude17 the kale I’m growing now is from seed I brought from the U.S. you can find plant starts in most rural towns for 3 to 10 cents and I’ve seen kale in a few places with temperate climates such as Cotacatchi. You can also find most hard to find seeds on FB marketplace. Kale is typically called col rizada here.

@scooterdude17 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap I was going to do the same but was afraid of having customs issues. Thanks

@ashiratantra 5 ай бұрын

What do you think about Cumbayá and Tumbaco? Are they safe(ish)?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Great question. I used to live in Tumbaco and was there during the beginning of the pandemic. There is a lot to like about the area, the parks, the microclimate, the shopping and nightlife. It used to be a very safe upscale area. At the time I left I was noticing opportunistic crime move into the area. First it was the mafias that use kids to sell (harass) candy to customers in upscale restaurants. Then it there was a rash of robberies in the parks. I’ve revisited several times since I moved. The decline continues. There is a pattern around Quito of criminals going into better neighborhoods to rob people has resulted in an uptick in crime crime in even the best neighborhoods. Cumbaya also just had a police raid 3 days ago where they seized over 100 weapons from an upscale house that was probably a wealthy high level cartel member. All that said, I would have no worries about living in Cumbaya or the parts of Tumbaco that are closer to Cumbaya. Crime is there, like everywhere near the capital, but the real risks on a daily basis are pretty low. Is it higher risk than Cuenca? Yes. Is it so bad that you should avoid it? Probably not. However, parts of Tumbaco have become high enough risk to recommend avoiding, such as the central park in Tumbaco and the areas around the main bus stops and supermercados.

@formica. 5 ай бұрын

Thanks for your insights. In my retirement years, I would not want to live in a country dominated by crime organizations. No point. Even if I don't have to worry about my personal safety, that is just depressing. I retired to a famous country in SEAsia, in this and neighboring countries, there is corruption at every level, petty theft and selfishness are not considered moral shortcomings, the govts are authoritarian, but it is very safe, virtually no violence, and there is positive energy, so I can adapt to that.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I seriously considered going that route. Long before I considered Ecuador I spent time living in Asia considering my options. There were a few things that put me off. Land ownership in most of Asia is complicated for foreigners. If I want to buy land in Thailand or the Philippines I can’t really own it, I need to use a local or a local agency to hold the majority ownership of the land. Also, culturally I found it easy to connect with people in a superficial level but very difficult to make real friendships in Asia due to cultural differences. The nail in the coffin was disease and life expectancy. In Ecuador the life expectancy is similar to the US. In Thailand poverty, disease, and death by scooter accident take their toll.

@CryptoDreams2030 5 ай бұрын

I am like you and plan to live in Colombia and work overseas and visit the USA

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Can you explain more? What does your plan look like?

@MikesGlitch 5 ай бұрын

Thanks for all the insight. You're a very interesting person

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Thanks. I don’t know you, but I’m sure you’re a very interesting person as well. 😀

@CLAROSCURO-uu7vs 5 ай бұрын

Yo ooo!!! You have a farm? Now I definitely have to have a chat, livestreams and a hangout with you after taking a peek at those 🥬 kales and other greens in your garden 💪🏾

@Rson66 5 ай бұрын

I can’t imagine what a pain it would be for your family to go through the US visa process. My wife’s (Ecuatoriana) interview for a US transit visa is a 13 month wait. Sounds like you are where you need to be though. Take care.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

Like yourself I also worked in Afghanistan.You mentioned years ago about digital nomading and at this point in life half my income will come from this.I also hold dual citizenship and I consider myself mobile country wise.High paying job remote .Western dollars, but not living there.Not loyal to any country if it tanks.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I have a strong belief and loyalty to the individual, to myself and my family. My attachment to any country is weak, and I feel that’s the way it should be. I have a certain amount of loyalty and respect for both the US and Ecuador, but only up to the loyalty and oaths I’ve promised and not beyond. Countries like to pretend they own their citizens, but it’s really the other way around.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap I also have loyalty to my family and also immediate close friends and also Christianity.Countries any country can go bad.Thats why I have devised various exit strategies.

@meryemmesh2728 5 ай бұрын

Ecuador, my beautiful country, is not what the foreign press describes it as, it invites you to visit the province of El Oro, there are magical places where there is no crime or addicts, you will be surrounded by a lot of chocolate, cocoa, and citrus fruits, and small rivers, refreshing winds, with a climate hot enough to go to the beach daily, we also have the cold in other cities in the province of El Oro, we even have a pyramid

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

El Oro is one of the few provinces I haven’t been to yet, but right now it’s also one of the more unstable areas and getting to some of the beautiful places you described requires traveling through some areas that are not safe.

@jerrygarcia4390 5 ай бұрын

If you have never traveled to the Secret Garden hostel close to Cotopaxi, I highly recommend it. It was a glorious two day stay for me.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I’ve heard of it but never been. It sounds like I need to check it out.

@jerrygarcia4390 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMapit’s one of the most beautiful natural settings that I have ever experienced. I have traveled extensively to various spectacular national parks within the US and Canada. This setting does not come in second 👍🏾 Excellent video yet again. I’m back in Quito, having traveled in a van back from the secret garden. Dinner in mariscal and drinks at sereno Moreno were awesome. Everything was normal tonight. Our van was stopped at a checkpoint carlos just south of Quito on the busy pan American highway. It was a really bizarre Q & A back and forth with what I perceived as an obnoxious and strange cop 👮. I heard the cop say “entonces, vamos hacer la prueba” 😬 I didn’t understand the nature of the test 🤔 Was it a sobriety test??? I really expected the worst at this point in time when our driver exited the vehicle. The cop knew that all of us were tourists representing Germany, Belgium and the USA. But, believe it or not, the test was for tire pressure 🤦‍♂️ and evidently, we passed the test. I have serious doubts of me ever owning a car here. On another note, a young Canadian woman, traveling on her way to the secret garden 7 weeks ago to volunteer, got a knife pulled on her on the bus from latacunga. Her phone and laptop were stolen. And neither the driver nor the driver’s assistant did a damn thing 😞

@Thealignmentkeys 5 ай бұрын

I am planning on retiring in 2 years. I can't do this anymore in the US. Breaking free from the matrix. I am still planning to check out Equador. It's a beautiful country and it's people r wonderful. The safety is no different in the US. Take care and thank u for sharing.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I am glad you’re planning on breaking free. I do want you to go into well researched and with open eyes. It used to be true that Ecuador was no more dangerous than the U.S. but at the moment that is no longer accurate, even for people who are careful and avoid any sort of people or situations that might put them in danger. I’m hopeful that this situation will be resolved and there is certainly opportunity in chaos, especially for those that want to buy property and are willing to take some risk and stick through the bad times. If, in a couple years Ecuador has calmed back down again I would not hesitate to recommend retiring here. However, if the situation doesn’t improve I would recommend considering somewhere else. There have been quite a few folks here sharing their experiences in the comments and suggesting other locations they believe are better. Some choose various locations in Asia, others are happy in places like Paraguay and Argentina.

@Thealignmentkeys 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Thank u for ur advice. Very helpful. Have a great day.

@Yvanna-ko4dm Ай бұрын

You can check out other areas in Ecuador that are safe if you don't mind living in a non-expat community. Small towns near Ambato are safe.

@mattperegrine873 5 ай бұрын

You and your family are so brave by Genealogy. Wanderlust is your marrow.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Is that a Peregrine I see? A dandelion seed doesn’t need to be brave. I just needs to surrender to the wind.

@SubconsciousTales 5 ай бұрын

Is there any part of Ecuador you haven't been or explored yet, but would like to ?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Absolutely. I am obsessed with exploring but I explore thoroughly and slowly. I’ve explored the north but I haven’t been much further south than Cuenca in the sierra, making it only as far as the Yunguilla valley. On the coast I haven’t been further south than Playas and probably should get to know the area all the way down to the Peru border. I’m desperate to go deeper into the Amazon but I’m not keen on staying at some overpriced tourist lodge to do so. I have a kind of crazy idea to eventually float down Rio Napo in a hobo raft to the border with Peru and possibly beyond. If it all works out and I don’t die on my slow float downriver I may try again on some of the smaller river highways further south. There are also a few areas in the center of Ecuador I’ve passed through but not yet really explored.

@jayklink851 5 ай бұрын

I remember watching his videos before the pandemic, Ecuador seemed like a bastion of safety/low crime in Latin America where Western retirees could spend their golden years. But in just a few short years, violent crime went from zero-to-ten awfully quick during the covid and post-covid years. So much change in such a short time; tragic!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Such is life. It’s an unpredictable world.

@dosdas2060 5 ай бұрын

Ecuador had a good run for their standards in the last 10/15 years or so , if you read about the history of Ecuador as a country and even before that you’ll find there’s been nothing but instability there unfortunately, I don’t think it will change anytime soon .

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@dosdas2060 I mean, the same could be said for the US with their history of assassinated presidents, civil war, external wars, exploding prison population, political instability, spiraling debt… it’s all a matter of perspective.

@j.clements2093 5 ай бұрын

Very informative. Thank you for not sugarcoating the situation. So I guess Cuenca’s president is no Bukelé?

@MikeLlerena 5 ай бұрын

As Teacher, the US is not paying enough to live…

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

As electrician, I agree.

@EricAnderson58 5 ай бұрын

animo! I'm a sucker for a green landscape.

@gatoquisquilloso 5 ай бұрын

Maybe you should talk about the differences between Correa and Lenin-Moreno on the Julian Assange issue

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I’d be hesitant to make a video about a complex issue I probably don’t understand well enough.

@franciscoburgos787 5 ай бұрын

First to answer your question, yes I am happy here in the US( Cali to be more specific) construction is my passion and being a mechanic is my hobby. I’m a workaholic, alcoholic and womanizer by trade, so yup, don’t mind the rat race. But that’s just me. I do understand and respect your choice to stay. I’m half Salvia and I REALLY like what Bukele has done. I wish AMLO and every Latin American president would do the same. Just glad that some are and I hope it’s evidence of a growing trend. Be safe out there.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Miss you brother. You call it like it is.

@jackieonate3439 5 ай бұрын

They look like achocha, everything is growing nicely. Praying for Ecuador.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Yes, you’re probably right about the name. I was hesitantly guessing based on a vague memory of that it thought it was called.

@GeraldBeagan-ee6se 5 ай бұрын

I think you are spot on about china

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I hope I’m wrong but yeah, it sure looks like it’s true.

@williamfrank5078 4 ай бұрын

From what you’ve reported previously I take it Ecuador has a strong government so theres no threat of civil war or the country being destabilized from the standpoint of civil order and rampant violence but this situation may destabilize the economy, if it sets off hyper inflation or mass unemployment your investments may tank and the cost advantage you enjoy vs the US may evaporate.

@ashleystyles6888 5 ай бұрын

Same in the UK. Enter illegally get a free hotel. Have a marriage with a foreign national and go through proper process? 5 years waiting at least....

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

How does that relate to the video?

@ashleystyles6888 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap you mentioned your family, visa etc

@dawnformisano1411 5 ай бұрын

Can you buy a new car in Ecuador as an expat from the USA? Is it more expensive to buy one there or import one once I’m there? Thanks for all your great info!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I have a couple videos about buying a car in Ecuador but the cliff notes are: No, you can’t import a car from the US (not in any way that is practical). Cars are expensive here. Typically twice the US price. Buying a Car in Quito Ecuador as an Expat kzfaq.info/get/bejne/gdKCnbKlkpbVqqc.html How to Buy a Car in Ecuador kzfaq.info/get/bejne/r-BzgLF3rdOZk3k.html

@mattperegrine873 5 ай бұрын

Volunteer Garden is our new band

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Surprise Fava Bean

@troymarcus5168 5 ай бұрын

I have just had 3-4 months in Venezuela riding solo on my moto. I came to SA to see if Colombia Argentina or Venezuela. I have decided on Venezuela to start a business live. a number of people said that of the millions that left Vene is that Gangs and homless people plus those that dont want to work have left/ The safest feeling country I have been riding in, people amazing . Good luck mate I looked at your content about 2 yrs ago .. sad news... Ecuador was not a country for me too Americanized and expensive for me.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I really appreciate comments like this and people that have the potential to broaden my experience and my viewer’s experience. What business are you starting? Where are you from? Do you have your own KZfaq channel and and can you share more about your experiences in Venezuela?

@christopherkirwan7999 5 ай бұрын

Your so right my friend.... getting out of the rat race and being a Nomad Capitalist. Always have your options open. God bless.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

What’s the difference between a regular digital nomad and a nomad capitalist? I consider myself sort of kind of a DN because of the portion of my income that comes from KZfaq, but I don’t understand the nomad capitalist distinction other than that there’s a KZfaq channel by that name.

@christopherkirwan7999 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap they are basically the same... going from one place to another. A nomad Capitalist doesn't necessarily need to be in the digital field. Hope to be in Ecuador this year.

@MrGoodsalesman 5 ай бұрын

what video equipment are you using? Is it an iphone?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Yes. I find I am way more likely to actually make videos if I keep it as simple as possible. Sometimes I use a GoPro as well. I haven’t bothered to use my Canon 80D in years because it’s just too cumbersome and gets in the way of creating despite the superior video quality.

@ohanailo7743 5 ай бұрын

Feel your sentiment. Being raised in the most beautiful place in the world of, Northern Polynesia which is, Hawaii and slave away to give my paycheck to the government to fund the, “Military Industrial Complex” it’s not worth staying in, Hawaii any more. Thought of moving to several offshore spots. Thought of Chile. Maybe Thailand or the Philippines. Need to be someplace tropical or closer to a Mediterranean climate. Don’t like the snow, or paying excessive taxes. Yeah, the Cartel is looking to expand its territory. One question that is on my mind, do you think the, Chinese Communist have an influence inside of the, “Government of Ecuador?” Wish you the best success.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I think the CCP had influence all the way to the top of the Correa administration and that influence remains strong among the correista faction of the government. I don’t know if China has much influence with Noboa one way or another. China definitely has been able to influence financial, infrastructure, and export policies of previous administrations and there continue to be complex trade and resource relationships that are not easy to untangle because of the large amount of debt Ecuador owes China and the exploitive terms of that debt.

@tomsaxton970 5 ай бұрын

Noboa has dual citizenship with Ecuador and the US. His university degrees are from the US. His 3rd child just born in the US. I feel he is likley to be more pro north American than China. Not to say that he wouldn't involve China if he thought it would help Ecuador somehow.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@tomsaxton970 Yes, he is definitely bringing Ecuador closer to the U.S. and Europe, pulling it away from the eastern powers. My impression is that he is extremely pragmatic, so if he sees a way to use China rather than be used by China he’ll take advantage of it.

@ohanailo7743 5 ай бұрын

@@tomsaxton970 , Thank you for commenting.

@ohanailo7743 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Thank you for replying back. My other question would be. Do you think, Ecuador might become a, “BRICS nation member” or does the election of, Argentina newly elected President: Javier Milei, have a better influence and a less Communist Ideology for, Ecuador’s political out come? The reason why I ask, is the amount of Communist sell outs in the U.S. and South America. Asia is no better. Really thinking of relocating just trying to gauge stability of the landscape and favor of, Americans.

@lenkisellus5976 5 ай бұрын

Panama is the best. Living in the US is okay I am retired and no debts. But the reason we moved was the politics in US. And in Panama medical is just as good as the US. And Panama currency is the same as the US. Plus only 3 hour flight back to the US. At one time we sought about Ecaudor been there couple of times. But we chose Panama and we glad we did. Ecaudor is very dangerous now. But if it works for you so be it.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I hear you. I considered Panama and it’s not a bad choice. I chose Ecuador because of the lower costs and because at the time the cocaine trafficking routes went north through Panama not through Ecuador. Unfortunately, times have changed and now the more popular route is through Ecuador. Such is life. I’m confident this bad moment here is temporary and things will return to normal.

@stedmays2768 5 ай бұрын

What are your thoughts about or perceptions of the situation in Manta? I looked at places there last month, hoping that problems in Ecuador would start to be solved but the situation seems dire or statically problematic. Again, any impressions about Manta that you offer would be appreciated.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Manta is a beautiful city with a busy port that is extremely valuable to the cartels. In moments like this when the cartels are at war with the government, Manta is going to be one of the higher risk cities. Because Manta is so important to the cartels, when they aren’t openly fighting the government they’re likely to keep a low profile there. Sort of the don’t shit where you sleep philosophy. I also consider Manta to be overpriced by Ecuadorian standards.

@2ndSprings 5 ай бұрын

Keep hope alive!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@worldwidesolotravel3400 5 ай бұрын

I was trying to find a place in Quito Ecuador by the Carolinas and a condo was worth $120,000 do you think that was a good deal? I thought it was to much

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

In my opinion it’s way too much. It’s a buyers market right now, especially in Quito. I wouldn’t pay more than 60k for a 1 bd in La Carolina, but I’d also think twice about buying there at all. It’s a beautiful area and upscale, but it’s directly in the path of urban decay. Quito is in the stage where money is moving out into the suburbs and places like La Carolina and el Batan are in decline due to crime and typical big city problems.

@jxx123 5 ай бұрын

Hello what exactly is the Embassy (state department) communicating to the US citizens there?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I stopped listening to the state department’s updates a long time ago. They tend to be alarmist and unhelpful.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

Actually what you talk about is fairly common knowledgs if someone follows news in South America.Its talking about controversial or secretive stuff which gets one in trouble

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

What sort of controversial secretive stuff? Seriously though, I think it’s either making direct unsubstantiated accusations against the government or saying anything derogatory or embarrassing to the cartels that is the real quick way to find yourself in trouble.

@katipohl2431 5 ай бұрын

Watching this as a gardener in cold and stormy Germany. Here I grow a South American plant called Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius). Does it grow in your region? It likes temperatures between 10 and 30 degrees celsius. There is some more plants that I would like to check out and experiment with. Have visited Ecuador 3 times already and want to settle with a house and land. Nepal is a really lovely place and I stayed alltogether 1 year in Nepal with tribal people. Unfortunately it is located between India and China. That might cause political crisis. After staying alltogether 5 years outside the western world is that I definitely dislike muslim places because of bad experiences. Thanks so much for your honest information about the situation. Conflicts everywhere...

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

There is a likelihood I am growing some yacon and mistaking it for jicama. I have not yet traveled to Nepal. I have friends there and it sounds amazing. I understand what you mean about Muslim countries, though just like any other culture there are good and bad places. I was impressed with Malaysia and actually liked it more than Thailand, especially in places like the Cameron Highlands.

@therehastobesomethingmoore 5 ай бұрын

As we travel through Latin America for a handful of years, in search of our favorite cool weather retirement city…. If we pick a place, we wonder if we need to be ready to move down the road as crime waves change in different countries. Do we steer towards a city like Buenas Aires ? We are not going back to the US to live….for a visit but that’s it.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

You sound like you’ve given this a lot of thought. I like cooler weather areas as well, though I prefer outside the city. Have you ever been to Manizales Colombia? It has a great climate and is known as one of the most educated and safe cities in Colombia. When I discovered the city I was very tempted to move there but I had already grown roots in Ecuador.

@therehastobesomethingmoore 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Ha Yes, years of planning. We have been to Bogota, and loved it, but that was many years ago. I think Bogota might be too big for us. Sounds like Manizales is smaller, safer, and less expensive…good combo ! Thanks for all the great videos !

@Yvanna-ko4dm Ай бұрын

@@therehastobesomethingmoore You can check out other areas in Ecuador that are safe if you don't mind living in a non-expat community. Small towns near Ambato are safe.

@therehastobesomethingmoore Ай бұрын

We really prefer non-expat non-tourist places. We do like cool-cold weather. We speak Spanish and have lived in 3 Latin American countries.

@Yvanna-ko4dm Ай бұрын

@@therehastobesomethingmoore Non-expat, non--tourist places are less expensive, more quiet, and safer. Good luck in search of your retirement destination!

@onetruecalling 5 ай бұрын

your farm looks amazing. I can see why you would stay and not return to the US.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Yeah, the farm is certainly one of the reasons.

@onetruecalling 5 ай бұрын

Is it crazy to think that you have created other streams of income around sharing your knowledge of micro-farming? @@FallofftheMap

@oreospeedwaggindoesamerica6078 4 ай бұрын

I agree I’m not happy in the US and looking forward to leaving in the next year or two.

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

What’s your plan and where to? Will you set yourself up as a remote worker first?

@oreospeedwaggindoesamerica6078 4 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap I also worked as a contractor in Afghanistan for many years. I had looked into Ecuador and traveled there to see what I thought. Probably going to move to Thailand and bounce around Asia. I should have already been there but parents had health problems so helping them out right now.

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

@@oreospeedwaggindoesamerica6078 I visited Thailand and considered moving there, but it didn’t quite feel right. For most expat coming out of Afghanistan south east Asia is probably a better choice. I get hung up on the land ownership rules in Thailand. That, and it was harder to make real connections to Thais. The culture was just too different for me to really understand the people.

@oreospeedwaggindoesamerica6078 4 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap I completely understand and that’s kind of how I felt in Costa Rica and Ecuador. If I spoke Spanish it would probably be different. I’ve just always felt more at home in Thailand than here in America. My uncle is married to a Thai and works at BKK Embassy and has kids living there. My brother and many friends that were in Afghanistan live there. I also use to hate that I couldn’t own the property but I’ve decided I’d rather just rent and then if any problems or I get bored or tired I can just move. I don’t like that it’s such a long flight to get back to America if needed. Thats why I had checked out Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico. Who knows I may end up in one of them but with everything in the news lately in Ecuador it fell to the bottom of my list.

@Yvanna-ko4dm Ай бұрын

@@oreospeedwaggindoesamerica6078 You can check out other areas in Ecuador that are safe if you don't mind living in a non-expat community. Small towns near Ambato are safe.

@fluffy5534 5 ай бұрын

Love Ecuador for Ecuadorian people. Ecuador is much safer than U.S.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Ecuador used to be safer than the U.S. Now Ecuador is safer in particular areas for particular segments of society but overall Ecuador is far more danger as the homicide rate has increased somewhere between 800 and 1000% in recent years.

@TheXone7 4 ай бұрын

Working to survive - this is the fact of nowadays. I am planning a bird photography trip to Ecuador in June, I am not afraid of the situation, because I have so much stress here in Europe, that I need a relief. What is important, God will protect the ones who ask Him. God bless you, your wide and kids and protect you, wonderful channel, keep up the great work!

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

Thanks. Do you know what part of Ecuador you’re going to visit for birding? I like the area around Baeza and especially Cosanga. Cabañas Tamiaju is a good cheap place to stay out there with some forest and trails for birding, or there some “famous” high end place out that way. It’s one of the rainiest parts of Ecuador and a temperate climate in the upper Amazon watershed.

@TheXone7 4 ай бұрын

We will be fortunately a group with a guide and local guide. The plan is to visit Rucu Pichincha volcano, Antisana volcano, Fog forest around 2500 m asl, then eastern side of Andes (hummingbirds), then Sumaco mountain, then Pichincha volcano, Mashpi-Amagusa, Mindo cloudforest, Milpe bird sanctuary, then lower forest west of Andes. Basically all around Andes and Quito besides any zones marked as risky zones due to the situation. Thank you for your ideas, will check them out as well :) @@FallofftheMap

@FallofftheMap 4 ай бұрын

@TheXone7 sounds like a good itinerary. In general the birding areas are also the safe areas. It’s the cities, the coast, and the border regions that are the most problematic right now.

@TheXone7 4 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Thank you for insight, will keep an eye on your channel and the situation after 6th of march, if the emergency will be prolonged +1m or not and what happens next. I hope for the good of everyone honest and brave in Ecuador 🙏🏻

@breezywilson760 5 ай бұрын

Did Ecuador lockdown?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

If by lockdown you mean 11pm curfew, then yes.

@TIG2MAN0 5 ай бұрын

Pack up and head back to the USA........NOOOOOOOOO. travel is awesome. Im looking at moving to lebanon. God bless the usa, but cost of living, healthcare,education. My unique situation allows for better options than USA. Love your videos brother.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I would not have guessed you’d choose Lebanon, but sometimes the places nobody considers are actually some of the most rewarding. Stay safe out there.

@TIG2MAN0 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap thanks brother. Stay away from syria boarder and the southern part of the country. North east of Beirut is good.

@jxx123 5 ай бұрын

Also are they evacuating their people. (Embassy)

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I haven’t heard of any plans to evacuate embassy personnel and I don’t think it’s likely. It’s Ecuador not Somalia. The crisis is serious but nowhere near that level.

@jxx123 5 ай бұрын

Thanks for the info. Sometimes they do a voluntary or involuntary departure for non essential personnel

@tomjeffersonwasright2288 4 ай бұрын

I know a bit about Mexico. Much. of the narco murder is in high dollar discos, resorts, and similar places most normal people do not frequent. Other murder is targeted attacks on rivals homes, operations, and businesses. Again, not my economic level. I spent some time in Colombia in the time of high rates of kidnapping. A traveler in worn clothes taking a third class bus is a poor candidate for being ransomed. If anything, the few living remnants of my family would pay a pittance to have the kidnappers keep me from ever returning. LOL. But avoiding the haunts of the narcos, and avoiding ANY association with narcos or their associates should remove most of the risk. And like flies to honey, come crooks to money. I try to look poor.

@tetekofa 5 ай бұрын

Paraguay!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

For the win

@DaveG-qd6ug 5 ай бұрын

Paraguay and Argentina are my favorites. I spend half the year in Buenos Aires if you ever have any questions. @@FallofftheMap

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@DaveG-qd6ug I have considered both places. I do have questions but I haven’t thought about them enough to articulate what they are yet. I guess my first question would be about land prices. What sort of cost is a hectare or two of good farmland with water, power, and road access within an hour of a city?

@DaveG-qd6ug 5 ай бұрын

My apologies but I am a city dweller. With that criteria though something outside of Asuncion might be preferable to Argentina. The areas adjacent to Buenos Aires are either expensive or less desirable. Also import duties on supplies and equipment can make the benefit of the weak peso less advantageous then would appear at first glance. Like Argentina, Paraguay has a history of welcoming immigrants but without the socialist policies that can make life difficult. I work in the states half the year so I can avoid Argentine bureaucracy. Also the land is cheaper in Paraguay, however you will deal with very hot summers, esp vs Quito. I also like the fact that Paraguay has not changed much over the years. I never met a fellow gringo during my five weeks in Asuncion. Both countries have amazing people, the reason I keep coming back ! @@FallofftheMap

@tetekofa 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Very reasonable- kzfaq.info/get/bejne/id5dfrGf2tHcnJc.html

@niko_walks 5 ай бұрын

I've been in and around Ecuador for the better part of 2 years . . mostly in the highland areas . . so not exposed to the troubles in Guayaquil and the coastal areas. My question is do you think the people, the citizenry, the gente could be a potential contributor to a tipping point that keeps Ecuador from inexorably sliding towards the intransigent narco state that Mexico has become? I am encouraged by the power of the paros, and even citizen actions like what has taken place in Panama recently. I'm not pollyanna about it but at least hopeful, when I see how encouraged the people are when this new leader adopts the "in your face" approach to the narcos. A long road to go, yes, I know but what might the people do?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I think if there is any chance of the out one here being a complete victory over the cartels it’s because of the no-nonsense attitude of the people. I’d say it’s a toss up at best because the people are very supportive of the government’s tough on crime approach but they are also easily distracted and redirected by disinformation.

@allenschmitz9644 5 ай бұрын

So that's what drought looks like out there.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

The drought is over. Tapered off about a month ago. When the rains come everything grows really fast.

@dannyv6399 5 ай бұрын

Hello from Washington state. Is ecuador like mexico as in police pull you over and scare tactic you into paying some money for a easy way out even when you did noting wrong.?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

No. In Ecuador there are a lot of police checkpoints where they check your paperwork. In the past they occasionally would try to invent problems to get a bribe but that sort of behavior from police has become rare from my experience. In my 10 years of driving here only once has a police officer attempted to create a nonexistent problem. He told me my headlight was out. I got out and looked at it. It was working. He shrugged and let me off with a “warning.” A few times police found legitimate mistakes that I had made, and on one occasion made a big deal out of something small to get a bribe. More recently the police have cleaned up and become more professional. In the last 5 years of driving, if anything, I’ve been treaded better than a local and haven’t been harassed and even been cut some slack for small mistakes.

@dannyv6399 5 ай бұрын

Okay thanks for the info. I was on a mission to take the family of 4 to cuenca I was watching videos from other youtubers and honestly couldn't tell if they were just saying all the great stuff about it and leaving out the negative. Then I stopped watching videos of ecuador and gave up for a while. Then started watching videos like yours and got hooked again comparing yours to others like Amelia & Jp and abundant living in vilcabamba. Yours seam to be more honest. I like you would worry about my family and would hate for anything bad to happen to them. I just get a bad vibe when other videos just give you ,just come over your going to love it the people are really nice nothing really worry about. When I see you walking in farm with all the green I see just like other videos of cuenca. I get the feeling God is.calling me to GO. But I'm nervous. I was born in mexico and live in the USA. And I really not excited about mexico, I don't get the same tingly feeling about visiting mexico that I get about ecuador and I haven't even visited. Blah blah blah sorry! Lol😂😂

@1Grandoptimist 5 ай бұрын

Hey bro how profitable can growing 10 acres of balsa be ? Does each tree really sell for 40 dollars after about 4 years ?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

The market price swings wildly from year to year. Last year it was closer to $8 and time required is 5 years minimum. You can grow about 1000 trees per hectare, so at last years rate $8000 per hectare every 5 years. There are much more profitable tree crops but they are higher risk, require significantly more investment and work, and are typically less ecologically responsible.

@1Grandoptimist 5 ай бұрын

@FallofftheMap thanks ,sounds like it would be worth while if scale is there . Specially with low cost of good land in tena region . Still safe lol. Stay safe man been following since Afghanistan, born there and ran away to ecuador from communist canada and now it looks like el salvador is place to be

@lllp7078 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap What other tree would you consider planting for better returns ?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

@@lllp7078 Gmelina. Also known as white teak or melina. In some parts of the country matures in 8 years. Grows back from the stumps 2 or 3 times without need for replanting. Far more valuable per hectare than balsa, but also requires a much higher investment and a lot more labor in the first few years to keep it alive. Grows best in the NW corner of Ecuador which is also where land is the cheapest but it’s the most dangerous part of the country, meaning it’s high risk someone will show up and poach your trees.

@safehouse2382 5 ай бұрын

Why now? Why do the cartels have an interest in Ecuador now?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

They were slowly growing in power here for many years. Their interest isn’t new, but the government fighting back is. The cartels grew too bold and eventually started assassinating politicians to try to prevent anyone from threatening them. Instead of intimidating the people it enraged them into voting for a tough on crime president. Also, the smuggling routes and cocaine usage shifted from the U.S. to Europe making Ecuador more strategically important.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

A long as western countries have an unsatiable appetite for cocaine these drug gangs and the higher level of organized crime will flourish. Personally I believe cocaine is as harmful as alchohol and should be treated as such. This meaning regulated legalization such as marijuana/ hemp.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

As marijuana became legal in more states the impact on the cartels was negligible. They quickly adapted, shifted into lacing heroin with fentanyl and importing high quality weed from Cali rather than exporting dirt weed. We’ve passed a tipping point where the cartels are no longer dependent on the US drug market. They have a thriving global drug market including a domestic market, and they are able to quickly pivots to extortion, human trafficking, counterfeit goods, etc… the problem is not drugs. The problem is the cartels themselves. Legalizing won’t break them. Reducing demand on the US and Europe won’t break them. Fighting them like they are international terrorist organizations will break them.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap I was mainly taking cocaine out of the equation.This is probably 60 % of there revenue. Then they will do what the New York mafia did when prohibition ended.Basically get involved in labor racketeering, the garment district shakedown, and yes there is still illegal gambling, LOL.and loansharking to small businesses and stock manipulation. I lived and worked in the northeast and these activities still go on but at a reduced level thru FBI intervention Also goes on in Southern Iraly in what ever these guys can get there claws into. Today cocaine is the big moneymaker and that should be a way of at least taking some of there power away.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

Oh I forgot untaxed gasoline rackets pioneered by the Russian mafia and untamed cigarettes coming up from the southern states, appropriately called buttlegging was popular for awhile Almost anything can be turned into a racket if there is enough money in it Lastly Unions were racket, mafia heavy thru the 40, s to 70, again FBI intervention put alot of stop to it. Heroin is half controlled by Asian gangs Triads and that's an entirely different group that deals directly with black organized crime in different cities.Mainly in northeast cities.

@peterliggett5233 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Also I had relatives from southern Italy who came from Sicily and was informed the Italian mafias were in there lowest control under Benito Mussolini Basically a fascist dictatorship, popular till the war started, that was very much supported.

@papillon5537 5 ай бұрын

You are brave, should left earlier

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I don’t feel brave and I don’t feel like leaving.

@tracycrouse8470 5 ай бұрын

We would listen to the radio before traveling but even at times it would be wrong and we would run into riots ...but that was back in the 70's early 80's.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

The riots continue, typically about once every two years whenever the government thinks about discontinuing the fuel subsidies.

@tracycrouse8470 5 ай бұрын

Wow I did not realize that.

@Clads5 5 ай бұрын

Do you still vote at all? I sent an absentee ballot from Colombia in 2020 and it was a hassle thats for sure haha. Just curious about how much of a connection, patriotism?, pride? you still have to the US - you don't need to discuss any politics.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

When I was 19 years old the SS administration made some error in my records. They changed my birthdate for whatever reason. Ever since then every time I try to register to vote it gets rejected and all attempts to get it corrected or reason with their bureaucracy have failed. In order to vote I believe I would need to take them to court and force them to admit and correct their error. It’s not something I’ve had the resources or time to do.

@galenamullen6444 5 ай бұрын

Don't you worry to have a farm there?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

No. I feel completely at ease when I’m on my farm. I worry when I have to spend time in the city.

@adcaptandumvulgus4252 5 ай бұрын

Could you have always moved to Alaska, the last American frontier, yeah?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

There was a time when that was totally my goal in life. Little cabin by the bay, big fish on the fire.

@BPe-ie9je 5 ай бұрын

I find the new port being built by Chinese in Peru is interesting. Would dilute cocaine production in Colombia???? and increaae in Peru. May lower impact as export site of Ecuador?????

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I hesitate to theorize on the impact.

@olanderdecastro52 5 ай бұрын

Advice from your American fans: Run for your life.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

No can do, friend. I have too many attachments to Ecuador to give up so easily.

@olanderdecastro52 5 ай бұрын

@@FallofftheMap Esta bien es tu vida…cuidate!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

gracias

@darrellandsondraholden9457 5 ай бұрын

ANYONE WHO THINKS YOU ARE PUTTING YOUR KIDS AT RISK BECAUSE OF WHAT YOU'VE SAID ON YOUR VIDEOS, DOESN'T REALLY SEEM TO KNOW WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT. GEESH. MY FAMILY MEMBER, WHO IS A PROFESSIONAL CRISIS MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR SAYS YOUR VIDEO IS THE BEST ONE HE'S SEEN OUT THERE BECAUSE YOU SPEAK FROM CALMNESS AND LOGIC AND AREN'T TRYING TO MAKE THING NEITHER 'ROSEY' NOR 'ALL HYPER-EMOTIONAL. THANK YOU SIR, FOR WHAT YOU DO. AND WE AGREE... AFTER LIVING HERE (10 YEARS NOW), WHY? WOULD ANYONE WANT TO MOVE BACK TO THE U.S.!?!

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I appreciate everything you just said minus the all caps. The content of what you said is supportive, positive, and awesome, but in all caps I read it in my head like I’m screaming it and it and the cognitive dissonance hurts my brain.

@lephilosopheinconnu3952 5 ай бұрын

02:54 ¨Upward mobility¨ I strongly disagree on this point. Sorry to say this but I would like to take a moment to sort of ´´unveil¨my thoughts on this thing you are expressing right now sir. I have a feeling there is a misconception on some people wheather you call it expats, foreigners, legal residents or whatever regarding quality of living in the SO called ¨third world ¨or ¨undeveloping world¨ both terms outdated and just wrong terms, I believe. THe first mistake a person does is to use those terms. The second one is to try to compare a place like the US to such a small country like Ecuador, the US should be compared to China (a country that has so many qualities capable to face a country like the US, in terms of economy, hi tech, education, military, sports achivements and so on) same with Rusia or Iran or even Turkey. I could say more but I´ll just say the US should ALWAYS compare to those BIG countries. Any big country. Number two, there is always a misconception that everyone coming from a small not so rich country is ¨poor¨ Well, that is certainly NOT the case. I like that ¨upward mobility¨sort of terms which are new to me or never heard before. it can be certainly harder for a person living in a ¨not so rich¨country to achive economical success but that DOES NOT mean in ANY way whatsoever that you ¨can´t get a head¨ It´s UP to you AND YOUR LIFE. If you want it you go for it. There will be odds everywhere but you can certainly go UPWARD. I want clear that out. I´m like ¨no more bs¨sort of an attitude now regarding those topics ok lol just saying. I´m not gonna go in detail but I will say I´m from Ecuador and I am trying to go UPWARD. I´m in fact expecting for the new brigther days to come ahead so I can go return to my business planning . I´m trying to become an investor. (Yes! there are investors in Ecuador and there is cash moving too!) I want to actually achive something BIG in my life. That is the right attitude towards life. I don´t know, but watching this video, I think you look a little bit sad. May I ask you is it everything right in your life. was life good to you thus far ? I´m a happy person and I like to see people being happy I have a bond to the US, personally, as I said I am not gonna go in detail but I have some background so this what I think. I´m a little bit tired of hearing -seeing this expat-foreigner attitude of ¨oh I live here Ecuador is a great country but in the end we live in the so called ¨undevelopped world¨ THAT IS GARBAGE. Not true. There ARE winners and losers, just about EVERYWHERE no matter where you live. Even if you live in the US, China or even Russia. I would request those people having more respect to the place they have chosen to live in and be more polite. But mostly of all, be well informed and have critical thinking when it comes to this matter of judging a country, the country they now are in I´m gonna contact you sir later on if I can . I would like to talk about that property nearby Tena. I´m interested. One of my goals is agriculture. I planted a few more than a hundred plants myself in a small crop , different species. It was a great experience.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

First of all, it’s the developing world, not the underdeveloped world. I think this simple misunderstanding gave you a negative impression. Second, I’m not saying people can’t achieve success in Ecuador or that there is no wealth in Ecuador. What I’m saying is there is less opportunity to come from a lower or middle class family and become wealthy in Ecuador than there is in the US. Less opportunity does not mean no opportunity. Would you argue that what I’m saying is untrue? I’m not sure why you commented that I “look sad.” That’s just weird. I look how I look and feel perfectly content as I am.

@BellaVita100 5 ай бұрын

Study former youtuber Gonzalo Lira....he thought like you did....He's dead now.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Ok… there’s also lots of people who don’t think like I do that are also dead now. Edit: after looking up who he was and how he died I’m confused as to why you would compare me to a pro-Russian propagandist who died in a Ukrainian prison. Seems like you’re doing some low effort trolling.

@agustinyerovi5636 5 ай бұрын

What do you think of illegals crossing the US, jumping the line and making your family process even more slow and cumbersome, while the ones doing it illegally are treated better ?

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

I think the legal immigration system is broken and that it’s human nature for people to do whatever is necessary to take care of their families. People aren’t risking their lives paying human traffickers and walking north because they’re impatient. They’re dying. Their children are dying. If I were born in Venezuela or Haiti I’d probably be doing the same thing just for some chance to make a better life for my kids where they have options other than being forced into a gang before they even have a chance to grow up.

@darrellandsondraholden9457 5 ай бұрын

SIR, ONE THING THAT IS COMING NEXT, IS THE RAPTURE. PLEASE, FOR YOUR SAKE, YOUR FAMILY'S SAKE, ITS' TIME TO EXPLORE THE BIBLE, READ IT ALL! - BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE. I AM PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

DO I NEED TO READ IT IN ALL CAPS OR CAN I READ IT WITHOUT ALSO SHOUTING LIKE A CRAZY STREET PREACHER!?!

@darrellandsondraholden9457 5 ай бұрын

PACK UP AND RETURN TO THE U.S.? - NO, THANK YOU.

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

It’s a common refrain from Americans that have never travelled.

@dbuck1964 5 ай бұрын

He says that the leftists in South America are nothing like the leftists in the US, then he goes on to describe the leftist in SA like the US leftists in exacting detail. 😂😂😂😂

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

If you believe that’s true you probably have a skewed idea of what your neighbors who identify as leftists actually believe and want. I grew up in a leftist family, but as I grew older and spent many years living and working on overseas military bases my political beliefs evolved into something that doesn’t fit either the left or right. I pull from ideas I’ve been exposed to from both sides.

@ossa60 5 ай бұрын

when you starting talking about left and right thats the point you should´ve stopped. Everyone is entitled to his own opinion but youre running a youtube channel so why mess with it???

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

Im guessing you don’t see the irony, do you? Yes, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

@ossa60 5 ай бұрын

PLEASE DONT TALK ABOUT THINGS YOU JUST DONT KNOW BECAUSE YOU´RE QUITE IGNORANT ABOUT THEM YOU START SOUNDING STP WHEN YOU TRY TO UNDERSTAND POLITICS OR GEOPOLITICS. SPEAK OF THINGS PEOPLE WANT TO LISTEN FROM YOU AND AVOID THINGS YOURE JUST WAY TOO IGNORANT ABOUT. THANK YOU

@FallofftheMap 5 ай бұрын

No need to shout