History

• Early residents of Ecuador fell to the mighty Inca Empire around 1463. Around 1530, Spanish conquistadors arrived amidst a brutal civil war, and took control of the empire by executing the emperor and using weapons that were unknown to the Inca people. Ecuador then fell under Spanish rule. Soon much of the indigenous populations were wiped out and ancient buildings destroyed. Citizens of Ecuador today can see the mix of Inca and Spanish architecture and traditions.
  
  

Considerations

• Foreign citizens who wish to relocate to Ecuador must be aware of the visa requirements that apply to their countries. Keep in mind that a non-tourist visa, which is necessary to live legally in Ecuador, must be applied for when you are in your home country; you cannot apply for one once you are in Ecuador on a tourist visa. The residence visa process can involve considerable paperwork, but is relatively straightforward. Some citizens who choose to live in Ecuador, enter the country on a tourist visa, which is good for 90 days in a year (and can be extended) and simply stay. This is a relatively risky option, as it is not legal and the citizen will not be eligible for residency benefits.
  
  

Geography

• Ecuador's mountains and hill regions are home to many of the country's indigenous populations. Among the historical tribes whose ancestors still exist in Ecuador are the Valdivians, Machalillas and Quitus. Evidence of the great Inca civilization is apparent throughout the country, in addition to the more modern remains of Spanish colonists. Though the smaller hill towns and indigenous cities are culturally fascinating, many international citizens choose to live in the more convenient and modern cities of Quito and Guayaquil.
  
  

Features

• Because Ecuador's climate is relatively mild, energy costs are kept lower than in nations with extreme highs and lows in temperature. The country offers a variety of environments in which to live, from coastal lowlands to the towering Andes. The country is remarkably diverse and is known for being friendly and welcoming of foreigner. Because Ecuadorian people are not wealthy, the cost of living is quite low for foreigners.
  
  

Warning

• Ecuador is generally a safe country to live and travel. In the larger cities, visitors and locals should exercise the same cautions that they would in any city; keep bags close to your body and valuables in front pockets, and avoid walking alone at night. Mugging and pickpocketing incidents have been reported in Quito and Guayaquil, but can be avoided by being alert and not carrying valuables or displaying expensive jewelry. As in many poor nations, visitors should be careful about drinking water and street food; drink bottled or purified water when possible, and do not eat food that has been sitting for long periods of time.