Life Abroad in Ecuador

If you would have asked me in January 2025 if I was going to be in Ecuador in December I would probably look at you sideways. Ecuador of all places? I only knew of Ecuador from high school geography class and that it's at the equator. That's it, that's all. I actually planned on living in Barcelona, Spain at this time of year, which has been a dream of mine for the past 10 years, ever since I studied abroad back in 2016.

But we all know things never truly go as planned, but in my recent experience, it's been better than I imagined. I recently signed up for Trusted Housesitters and have been blessed with a long-term housesit in Loja, Ecuador where my only responsibility is watering plants. Yes, you read that correct! I only have to take care of plants in exchange for free accommodation in a new country.

the patio of plants I'm taking care of for a few months

Speaking of things not going to plan, I want to share with you some things I've learned in my first week as a gringo in Loja, Ecuador. This is from my personal experience as well as shared experiences from expats living in the area.

Starting off, on my flight from Quito to Loja, the airline could not find my ticket reservation and I was almost forced to spend $160 I didn't have on a new flight. After about 20 minutes of watching others check-in and a small prayer to my spirit team to clear any obstacles, they finally found my reservation. The flight did not board, depart or land on time, we even got rerouted to the coast at another airport! Mind you, I have no cell service and my Spanish is a tad weak so I was completely lost. Lesson one: It's common for logistics and bureaucracy to be slow. Have patience and be prepared for delays and unexpected occurrences.

A warm welcome to Ecuador aka a chaotic travel day

The next thing I've learned during my first week in Ecuador is that adjusting to the altitude is no joke! Loja is about 6,760 feet above sea level while Quito has an elevation over 9,000 feet! For reference, the average elevation of the U.S. is about 2,500 feet. In North Carolina the elevation is around 534 feet. If you're unfamiliar with what that means, there is less oxygen in the air at higher elevations, making it difficult to breathe. It can also cause altitude sickness which includes nausea, dizziness, exhaustion, and in severe cases, build up of fluid in the lungs, known as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Luckily, I haven't experienced severe symptoms but I do notice a shortness of breath after moving around or walking up a basic flight of stairs. Midday naps have become an essential part of my days recently because my body is adjusting to this new environment.

A beautiful sunset from the hills, 6,500 feet above sea level

After experiencing the flavorful cuisine of Mexico, I thought all Latin American countries' dishes were filled with spice and sazon. I've since learned that Ecuadorians don't prepare their dishes with spicy ingredients. As someone who enjoys a kick in my food, this has been a shock to my system. I was recommended to carry my own hot sauce if I want my food with some spice. Don't get me wrong, the foods been pretty good, but a bit left to be desired. I'm always open to trying new foods so I'm hoping I will enjoy more traditional Ecuadorian dishes.

After speaking with multiple expats that have been living in the country over 15 years, there's a common consensus that Ecuadorians don't want to disappoint you so they often say yes even if they don't know or when they want to say no. I haven't had any firsthand experience with that, but it's helpful information for those desiring to live in Ecuador and who may need to hire locals to do any kind of work for them or their home. Maestro here doesn't equate to being an expert in the field.

the view from my desk

Each day brings something new to see, do, and explore. I look forward to experiencing more of Loja and other cities in Ecuador! Keeping in mind these lessons I've learned in my first week. I'm also sharing my experience in a new YouTube series called Passport Perspectives with Paris. Check out episode one now!

Check out Passport Perspectives with Paris!

If you've visited Ecuador, I'd love to hear more about your experience and lessons you've learned! Share them in the comments below or over on Instagram.