Moving to Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador
Last updated on Sep 24, 2024
Summary: Expatriates move to Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador for its stunning natural beauty, its laid-back lifestyle, and its low cost of living. The city is located on the Pacific Coast and offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, surfing, and kayaking. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Additionally, Bahia de Caraquez is a great place to learn Spanish, as the locals are friendly and welcoming to foreigners. With its stunning scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and low cost of living, Bahia de Caraquez is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home.
What do I need to know before moving to Bahia de Caraquez?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bahia de Caraquez, they said:
"It is wise for expats who plan to move to Bahia de Caraquez to become educated about the climate, culture, and language of the area before arriving. It is recommended that expats learn some Spanish before moving, as the primary language spoken in Bahia is Spanish with some areas using an indigenous language called Chocho more prevalently. Bahia de Caraquez enjoys warm weather throughout most of the year, but rain showers can be frequent in the wet season between December and April. Expats should also be aware of their surroundings at all times, as Ecuador has a high crime rate and this area is no exception," explained one expat living in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador, Ecuador.
How do I find a place to live in Bahia de Caraquez?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"There are many options available for those looking for a place to live in Bahia de Caraquez. The city's growing popularity has brought a surge of new apartment and housing developments, offering a variety of housing options to suit all needs. Long-term rentals and vacation homes are both popular choices, with properties usually equipped with modern amenities to make life much easier. AirBnB is a great way to book short-term vacation rentals in Bahia de Caraquez, while long-term rental apartments can generally be found through local real estate agents. There is also the opportunity to purchase a home or condominium in Bahia de Caraquez for those looking for something more permanent," said one expat in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador.
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With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bahia de Caraquez?
"A typical expat home or apartment in Bahia de Caraquez is typically comfortable, modern and spacious. Most homes and apartments come with a kitchen, one or more bedrooms, a bathroom, and a living area. Many also come with a terrace or balcony taking advantage of the breathtaking sea view. Some buildings also come with a pool and other amenities. The city is known for its excellent infrastructure and facilities, so expats can find plenty of apartments and houses that offer great value for money," said one expat in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador.
What is the average cost of housing in Bahia de Caraquez?
If you are thinking about moving to Bahia de Caraquez, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Bahia de Caraquez is generally quite reasonable, with the average cost of a one bedroom apartment ranging from $300 to $500 per month. For larger apartments and houses, the cost of rent can climb above $1000 a month depending on the size and location of the property," remarked one expat who made the move to Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador.
Should I buy or rent a home in Bahia de Caraquez?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Bahia de Caraquez, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Purchased - not a difficult process at all - probably easier than in the USA or Canada," remarked one expat who made the move to Bahia de Caraquez.
"Buying a home in Bahia de Caraquez can be a great investment for those looking for a unique property in a secure and tranquil environment. The area offers modern conveniences and amenities as well as activities that make living there enjoyable. Renting is also a popular option in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador and might be a better option for those looking for short-term accommodation and those who are travelling and prefer to keep their options open. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent depends on the individual's lifestyle and financial needs, so it is important to assess both options carefully before making a decision," explained one expat living in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador, Ecuador.
What should I pack when moving to Bahia de Caraquez?
We asked people living in Bahia de Caraquez to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Bahia de Caraquez, it is important to pack items such as lightweight, comfortable clothing made of lightweight materials that protect from the elements; rain gear such as umbrellas, strong boots, and a waterproof jacket; items to protect against bugs, such as insect repellent, a net or mosquito coils; sunglasses and hats to protect against the sun; a first-aid kit; and your personal toiletries. Additionally, any special items you need for your particular activities or lifestyle should not be forgotten," remarked one expat in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador, Ecuador.
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With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bahia de Caraquez?
We asked people in Bahia de Caraquez if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"Not so far, but I am sure there will be some along the way, and I am sure it will be more than one," said one expat who made the move to Bahia de Caraquez.
"It is important to be aware of local customs when visiting Bahia de Caraquez. To avoid cultural faux pas, be respectful of religious practices and local traditions, avoid speaking in a loud voice, and refrain from any inappropriate displays of affection such as excessive public displays of affection. Additionally, take time to learn some words in the local language, such as 'hola', 'gracias', and 'por favor', in order to show respect for the local culture. Finally, make sure to dress modestly and avoid wearing overly revealing clothing," explained one expat living in Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador, Ecuador.
Why do people move to Bahia de Caraquez?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Bahia de Caraquez, they responded:
"Bahia de Caraquez is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and affordable cost of living. The city is situated on the Pacific Coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. The climate is warm and sunny year-round, making it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. The city is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Additionally, the city is known for its friendly locals, who are always willing to help newcomers settle in. With its stunning scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and low cost of living, Bahia de Caraquez is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," stated one expat who made the move to Bahia de Caraquez.
Connect
With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services Bahia de Caraquez?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bahia de Caraquez, they replied:
"Bahia de Caraquez offers a variety of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a public hospital, Hospital de Caraquez, which provides general medical services, emergency care, and specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are several private clinics and medical centers in the city that offer a range of services, including general practice, dentistry, and optometry. The city also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Finally, the city has a number of health centers that provide primary care services, such as vaccinations and health screenings," wrote one expat living in Bahia de Caraquez.
What are medical services in Bahia de Caraquez like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bahia de Caraquez, they replied:
"Bahia de Caraquez offers a variety of medical services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are several pharmacies in the city that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. The city also has a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, including general practice, dentistry, and optometry," wrote one expat living in Bahia de Caraquez.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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