Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago

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Thinking of moving to Ecuador? In this Part 3 of my “What NOT to Expect” series, I reveal 10 more things that might surprise you — from daily inconveniences to cultural quirks you’ll need to adapt to. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re realities every future expat should know.

In this video, you’ll learn:
1️⃣ 02:24 - Why UV protection is a must — even on cloudy days ☀️
2️⃣ 03:30 - The challenges of breathing at high altitudes in cities like Quito & Cuenca
3️⃣ 05:08 - Why flashy jewelry can make you a target 💍
4️⃣ 07:14 - Risks of carrying expensive camera gear & laptops 📸
5️⃣ 10:40 - The truth about garbage disposals (and what I use instead) 🗑️
6️⃣ 12:17 - The headache of product warranties & returns 🛒
7️⃣ 15:01 - The unique way elevators work here 🚪
8️⃣ 16:47 - Whether tap water is safe to drink 💧
9️⃣ 17:35 - The infamous toilet paper rule 🚽
🔟 18:58 - Hot water & “suicide showers” 💦⚡

If you’re planning to move to Ecuador, watch this first so you know what to expect — and what not to expect!

👍 Like, subscribe, and watch for Part 4 coming soon!

Drinking Tap Water - youtu.be/_1OKa8LY6I0

Links to know:
Facebook - Manta and Manabi Expats and Amigos - facebook.com/groups/323275021650751

My Channel Video Index - docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1-f4Wv3uBMulCX9OK6oNqS5a9wrS84cbUBYXzoq24JNA/edit?usp=sharing

My Google Docs document of useful information
docs.google.com/document/d/1ArNRtsdqfleE1-l9r1yKrh-XyzksSIwj0MMyb09L0ro/edit?usp=sharing

My checklist for moving to Ecuador - docs.google.com/document/d/1ySNcEa6_ffaKutXgMdlhdwAoD46lkwqKvd_H7DlEYGY/edit?usp=sharing

Remember this folks.
A country might look good on paper, or on a YouTube video, but what about the “Chemistry” between you, the individual and the country and culture as a whole?
This is something we can’t know in advance. We can only make our move, dive in and test the waters…….and see how it goes.

#MoveToEcuador #EcuadorLiving #ExpatLife #LivingAbroad #EcuadorTips