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Digital Nomad Guide to Salinas, Ecuador | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Playa de San Lorenzo in Salinas

Digital Nomad Life in Salinas, Ecuador

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Salinas, Ecuador is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals. The approximate population of Salinas, Ecuador is around 40,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Salinas is estimated to be around $1,000 USD. To rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Salinas, it would cost around $400 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Salinas is La Libertad, as it is close to the beach and has a variety of restaurants and shops. The weather in Salinas, Ecuador is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How do I meet people in Salinas?

When we asked people living in Salinas about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Hanging out around Score sports Bar owned by American Will Taylor also Rapa Nui Chilean bar on the front Malecon, Shopping center coffee areas, Gyms & sometimes Yacht clubs are the best place for Ex-Pats from my 5 years based here, even just walking on the main front, malecon one meets many foreigners and some nice locals," said one person in Salinas.

"Expats living in Salinas can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange clubs, book clubs, biking clubs, and movie nights. They can also attend local events, such as festivals and concerts, or take classes in Spanish and salsa. Another popular way for expats to meet people and make connections in Salinas is through networking events hosted by the local chambers of commerce and other local organizations. Additionally, expats can join local social media groups dedicated to connecting locals and expats, which often lead to a variety of other opportunities to engage with the community," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Salinas, Ecuador.

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What is life like in Salinas?

When we asked people living in Salinas what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Salinas is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and low cost of living. Expats and digital nomads in Salinas can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and cuisine. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from. Salinas is a great place to work remotely, with reliable internet access and plenty of coworking spaces available. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and kiteboarding to hiking and biking. With its stunning scenery and laid-back atmosphere, Salinas is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a new home," remarked one member in Salinas.

"Varied, work to family with strong family values, socializing from Casions, to fine cuisine to dancing Salas in the Barcelo 5 star and other locations on the main malecon. Also nice sports clubs, gyms are available, There are also nice drives to different coastal locations within 1 hour of Salinas and closer such as Montanita, Ayangue, and even closer such as Farallon Dillons in Ballenita resort," explained one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador.

"The life is around the gorgeous beaches of Salinas itself, Chipipe and to a lesser extend Punta Carnero, as it is a dangerous beach because of riptides," said one person in Salinas.

"Salinas is a really nice place. Is like being in Guayaquil, but with a beach nearby, You will find supermarkets, banks, schools, hospitals and many more things than other ecuadorian beach. And a big plus is that is near Guayaquil (the biggest city in Ecuador and main commercial city of the country)," said one expat who made the move to Salinas.

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Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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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Where should I live in Salinas?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Salinas may seem daunting at first, but there are a variety of options available to suit everyone's needs. One of the best ways to start the search is to look online. There are several rental websites dedicated to connecting people with available properties in Salinas, such as Ecuadorexpat.net and Encuentra24.com. Additionally, there are several local real estate agents, such as Marcocar Realty, Graviaventas, and Simplerent.ec, which can help you find the perfect residence. Finally, speaking to people who already live in the area is a great way to gain local insight and discover hidden gems. With these resources, you should be able to find a place to call home," explained one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"We came to Ecuador 4 times and fell in love with Salinas. We had a realtor help us find our new condo," said one person in Salinas.

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What do I need to know before moving to Salinas?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Salinas, they said:

"Do not listen to anyone initially, feel the place out first and make sure you enjoy the area. When buying or renting a place such as apartments be careful of all Brokers, even the Licensed, who both I and our friends have seen on many occasions add 20% or more to the costs and who also try to get paid both sides, by in effect charging innocent foreigners much more, where as if you deal with owners directly you will pay less! Brokers means that they are more broke than you so be CAREFUL. I recommend either Tucasaecuador.com on line or their magazine you can buy in the main Shopping center or in Petrol stations. Personally we bought from the Best Tower in Town the PHOENIX LUXURY TOWER who were in this magazine in front of the Banco Pacifico on the second street in Salinas which has over 9 nationalities based there and found that in dealing with the OWNER we got the best and fairest deal and no broker crap trap! They have suites, medium and large apartments but are over 80% sold now," explained one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador.

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Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
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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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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 do people appreciate most about the culture in Salinas?

"More relaxed generally, people are very friendly and helpful. More tranquil way of life. Fresher food," explained one expat living in Salinas, Ecuador.

"Expats in Salinas appreciate the friendly and welcoming locals, who are always eager to lend a helping hand or share stories about the area. They also appreciate the relaxed pace of life and the fact that there is plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy the beautiful environment, with beaches that are great for swimming and exploring. The vibrant food culture is another aspect that expats enjoy, with a wide variety of flavors and textures that can be found at local restaurants, markets and street vendors. People also love the variety of cultural activities available to explore, such as music and dance festivals and traditional celebrations," said one person in Salinas, Ecuador.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Salinas?

"Parties start early and go on all day long. People feel free to just drop by to say hello - nice idea, but very different from what I'm used to, so it still throws me a bit. Anything to do with government or banking is mired in red tape and moves slowly. Banks are particularly frustrating because they act as if they really don't care if they have your business or not," said one expat in Salinas.

"Expats in Salinas often find the local culture of speaking Spanish to be the most demanding adjustment for them to make. Additionally, the conservative and traditional values of the community can be in stark contrast to what expats are used to in their home culture. Also, as a beach town, some expats find the relaxed lifestyle to be difficult to adjust to and at odds with their own work ethic. Lastly, the area is frequented by many tourists, making navigating the cultural differences between tourists and locals difficult," remarked one member in Salinas, Ecuador.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Salinas for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Salinas for a while, you will likely need a temporary residence visa. Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, the visa and supporting documents needed may vary. Generally, you will need to provide proof at least 6 months of valid health insurance coverage, certified copies of items like your passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a criminal background check. Additionally, you may be required to obtain a special work or student visa if you plan to work or study while in Salinas," said one expat who made the move to Salinas, Ecuador.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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.

What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Salinas?

We asked people in Salinas if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to remember to be respectful of traditional values when in Salinas. Refrain from expressing opinions that could be considered offensive or insensitive towards the local culture and its people. Additionally, dress appropriately if visiting religious sites, and be respectful if you encounter people who do not speak the same language as you. Showing courtesy and respect is the best way to ensure that you do not make any cultural faux pas in Salinas, Ecuador," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Salinas, Ecuador.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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.

What are healthcare services like in Salinas?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Salinas, they replied:

"Salinas offers a variety of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has several public hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical care, including general check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments for minor illnesses and injuries. Additionally, there are several private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Salinas also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. In addition to these services, the city also has a number of health centers that provide preventive care, such as health education and screenings," remarked one member in Salinas.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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.

What are the pros and cons of living in Salinas?

"Cost of living , beach, much more reliable internet make Salinas my last stop on the planet," said one foreigner in Salinas.

"Expatriates and digital nomads living in Salinas appreciate the city's laid-back atmosphere and its proximity to the beach. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. Additionally, the city's warm climate and friendly locals make it a great place to live. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the lack of infrastructure and public transportation options to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Spanish," remarked one member in Salinas.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

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.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move!
Learn More

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move!
Learn More

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Playa de San Lorenzo in Salinas

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca
Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move!
Learn More

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move!
Learn More

Contribute to Ecuador Network Contribute
Help others in Ecuador by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Ecuador.

William Russell
William Russell

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