Ecuador

Ecuador is easy for North Americans and Canadians to retire to because of its straightforward and cheap residency process and the fact Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its national currency.

The climate in Ecuador varies significantly throughout its four regions: the Sierra, the Oriente, La Costa, and the Galapagos Islands.

Its mountainous regions, the Sierra, enjoy a spring-like climate year-round, while La Costa, its coastal plains are warmer and more humid. As Ecuador is located on the equator, temperatures and weather conditions stay consistent year-round.

Spanish is the official language of Ecuador. You’ll use it for business and any interactions with the government.

Ecuador’s second language is Quichua, the indigenous language still spoken by over 10 million Native Americans in the Andean region.

You’ll find English spoken in expat or tourism-related business, the occasional real estate agent, a few doctors, and of course around the language schools.

In Ecuador’s bigger cities, expats are fortunate to have plenty of fellow English speakers in town. For example, it’s easy to find someone to help you get on your feet. If you plan to retire in a more remote part of Ecuador, you should take a few Spanish lessons.