Manta, Ecuador

"Make it a point to meet the local Gringo population, remember that if they do not have a marked price then barter is often necessary to keep from overpaying. Rent until you know the area and keep an open mind. Realize that on the coast tossing garbage on the side of the road and men publicly urinating is not unusual. This is a super place to retire and Manta's location is dry and arrid. Makes it very healthy and with little rain its easy to plan many outdoor activities. One needs to smile a lot and its amazing how a positive outlook spreads," said one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Expat retirees should be prepared for a hot and humid climate in Manta. As such, it is important to bring light clothing and quality sunscreen to protect against the sun. Expats should also be familiar with local customs and regulations for residency, especially if planning on staying for an extended period of time. Additionally, it is recommended to learn some Spanish as English is not widely spoken in Manta. It is also important to establish a local network, such as with other expat retirees, as a means of support. Lastly, expats should explore the city for activities and amenities that suit their lifestyle, in order to make the most out of living in Manta," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Manta is a city in Ecuador located on the Pacific coast. It is known for its seafood and pleasant climate. Expats moving to Manta should be aware that the city experiences frequent earthquakes and may want to take the necessary safety precautions. Additionally, the area has a wide variety of outdoor activities, from beaches to national parks, so it's important to be sure you have what you need to stay safe while exploring the area. The local population is mainly Spanish-speaking, so it is also a good idea to have a basic understanding of the language in order to successfully navigate the city. Lastly, it's important to take measures to protect yourself against mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue fever, as they are common in the area," remarked one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"One way to find a place to live in Manta is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Encuentra24.com, VivaStreet.com, and Craigslist.org are good places to start. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers or ask around in the community for recommendations. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties. Finally, you can visit the city in person and look for rental signs posted in the windows of buildings," remarked one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"Expat homes and apartments in Manta typically feature modern amenities and are located in secure, gated communities. Many of these homes and apartments have access to a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expat homes and apartments in Manta are typically spacious and well-maintained, with large balconies and terraces that offer stunning views of the ocean. Additionally, many of these homes and apartments come with access to private beaches and other outdoor activities," remarked one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"The cost of housing in Manta varies depending on the type of housing desired. Generally, rental prices for apartments can range from moderate to expensive, with a one-bedroom apartment typically ranging between $300 to $600 USD per month. Single-family homes and luxury apartments tend to be more expensive, averaging between $400 to $1,000 USD per month," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Manta International Social Club and/or contact Linda Flierl Hooks at [email protected]," wrote a member in Manta.

"Expats living in Manta often become involved in the local community by joining clubs and activities such as expat meetups, outdoor sports groups, and professional networking groups. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as music and art festivals, or even joining a language class. Additionally, making friends in the workplace or saying hello to locals when out and about are great ways to connect with people in Manta," commented one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"When moving to Manta, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for the warm, humid climate. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as a first aid kit. Don't forget to bring a few items to make your new home feel like home, such as pictures, books, and other personal items. Finally, make sure to bring a valid passport and any other important documents," commented one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"Before retiring in Manta, expats should familiarize themselves with the country's language and culture to ensure the smoothest transition possible. As it can be hot and humid year-round, it is important to make sure the accomodation is well-ventilated or air-conditioned. It is also important to make sure that medical services are available and that adequate insurance is acquired. Furthermore, it is important to research the local laws and regulations for retirees as there may be stipulations that need to be followed. Lastly, exploring the area to find out what amenities and services are available is beneficial to ensure the most comfortable retirement," wrote a member in Manta, Ecuador.

"My understanding is that fishing is the main industry here. The job situation here is very poor for all. The pay is low if you work for someone and if you start your own business the government changes the laws often. Most expats that are not retired are either in real estate, B&B or restaurants," said one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Foreigners in Manta often take jobs in industries such as tourism, hospitality, teaching, IT and engineering, or even as English or Spanish language tutors. Many find employment at local healthcare clinics, expat stores, and in the construction business. Additionally, foreigners may find work in the fields of journalism, finance and logistics," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"For the most part the expats are retired or semi retired. Socializing tends to be a front runner for many. Because Manta is on the coast we have many close beaches, great mini trips and its very easy to use as a main base to visit and explore other parts," said one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Manta is a great destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a laid-back lifestyle. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of housing options, from beachfront apartments to more affordable options in the city center. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The city also offers a variety of activities, from exploring the nearby beaches to visiting the local markets. With its relaxed atmosphere and affordable lifestyle, Manta is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador.

"The warmth and easy going friendliness of Ecuadorians. Common courtesy and good manners. That youth and age or treated with kindness. Respect for the environment. People are valued at least as much as economic gain. Hard work: people are willing to hustle for income, even if it's on a different time frame than US companies might expect," said one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Expats in Manta appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the slower pace of life. They enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city, with its numerous parades and celebrations throughout the year. Expats appreciate the wonderful, friendly locals and their warm hospitality. They also appreciate the variety of delicious, fresh food available in markets, restaurants, and cafes around the city. Additionally, the stunning beauty of the lush rainforest and coastline of Manta is a major draw for expats, who often take advantage of the many outdoor activities available," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"One of the most challenging aspects of living in Manta that expats often face is navigating the different norms and customs of the local culture. While the people of Manta are friendly and welcoming to new visitors, they may expect different behaviors than what a person is accustomed to, so an expat often needs to adapt and learn the local customs. Additionally, the language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as Spanish is the official language of Manta; this can complicate interactions with locals and the ability to access certain services. Finally, the local infrastructure and public transportation can seem very different to those used to living in more developed countries, which may require some getting used to in order to get around town and complete daily tasks," said one expat in Manta, Ecuador.

"The language. There was a Tsunami alert the second week I was here. I did not have computer access, and air raid sirens were going off. Trucks with loudspeakers were in the streets, with bullhorns making announcements in Spanish, but my skills were not strong enough to make them out. I did not know what was happening and that was scary. That has eased as I"ve made friends and established a safety net," said one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Manta has a reputation for experiencing relatively high crime rates. In recent years, there have been reports of muggings, burglaries, drug-related incidents, and violent crimes in the city. The government has taken exceptional steps to ensure the safety of its citizens, such as increasing the police presence and increasing penalties for certain types of crimes. Nonetheless, it is important to stay vigilant when visiting Manta, Ecuador and take the necessary safety precautions," said one expat who made the move to Manta, Ecuador.

"The people are polite as a rule and accepting. They do have a strong belief in a class system here. The Catholic church is very strong in Ecuador and encourages all including the poor to have a lot of children which they can not afford. Crime is mostly in certain areas and quite often revenge type crimes. The average tourist will find people helpful but do need to be aware that they will try and take advantage financially wise. I have no fear living in Manta but am aware that they do have crime," remarked one expat who made the move to Manta.

"Manta is a diverse city, with residents from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. In general, people in Manta, Ecuador are welcoming and accepting of differences. It is not uncommon to encounter people of different cultures and walks of life, who interact regularly and peacefully. Manta has a strong tradition of tolerance and mutual respect," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"The Swiss School of Manta (SSM) is an excellent international school located in the port city of Manta in Ecuador. It offers an bilingual education in both English and Spanish, with the aim of preparing students to enter universities in Europe, the United States and Canada. With small classes and a student to teacher ratio of 7:1, the school provides a nurturing environment for students to learn and grow. SSM also offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities, giving children a chance to develop their talents and acquire useful life skills. IKER Bilingual School is another top-notch educational institution located in Manta. This school is dedicated to helping students achieve their educational goals through bilingual education and practical courses. The student to teacher ratio is highly favorable at 8:1, offering personalised teaching that is tailored to each student’s individual needs. IKER also organizes regular school trips and activities, allowing students to explore and experience new places, events and cultures. Finally, Sumak Kawsay Bilingual International School is a renowned school with a focus on providing concerned and quality education. Their personalized curriculum follows a bilingual approach, with a holistic focus on developing the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual potential of each student. Sumak Kawsay ensures that every child has access to quality technology and resources, and encourages teamwork through extracurricular activities such as sports and other competitions," remarked one parent with kids at in Manta, Ecuador.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Manta 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. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and public transportation to be a challenge. Additionally, the city's limited nightlife and entertainment options can be a downside for some," wrote one expat living in Manta.

"Beautiful country. Generally likable and welcoming communities. Spectacular and plentiful fresh food available. 12 hour days all year long, with warm weather all year. An enormous variety of activities, places, and natural wonders to explore. The OCEAN," commented one expat who moved to Manta.

"People are happy and friendly. They go out of their way to help you. A small percentage of people speak English, mostly people with a higher level of education or people who have had a chance to travel abroad," commented one expat who moved to Manta.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Manta typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as joining local clubs and organizations, attending community events, and participating in outdoor activities. Expats often find that the locals are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make connections and build relationships. Additionally, there are many expat-run businesses and organizations in Manta, providing a great way to meet like-minded people," said one expat.

"Manta is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to take part in. The city is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, such as the Manta Festival of the Arts and the Manta International Film Festival. Additionally, the city's beaches are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the sun. With its diverse range of activities and attractions, Manta is a great place to meet new people and make lasting memories," wrote one expat living in Manta.

"One can get by OK without fluency in the language. I do. I am hearing impaired and don't do well with learning a new language, but I get along JUST FINE anyway. I get really tired of ex-pats always "demanding" that everyone needs to learn the language. Nice and helpful but one can do OK without," commented one expat who moved to Manta.

"The rental housing is mostly fully furnished with amenities like swimming pool and 24/7 security guard. Use a rental agent rather than renting directly from the owner. A rental agent will make sure that everything is in good repair and will respond quickly to your needs. My rental agent helps me find store and services. If you buy, make sure that you are already well established in the community because you will need to make many decisions on your own. It is easy but expensive to ship your household good. Depending on your lifestyle, it may be less expensive to ship your goods rather than try to duplicate them here," mentioned one expat inManta.

"Expats in Manta recommend researching the area thoroughly before committing to a rental property. It is important to visit the property in person and to ask questions about the neighborhood and the landlord. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the rental agreement is in writing and that all necessary documents are signed. Expats also suggest that renters should be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding rental properties and that they should be prepared to pay a deposit and rent in advance. Finally, expats recommend that renters should be aware of the potential for natural disasters in the area and should make sure that their rental property is adequately insured," commented one expat who moved to Manta, Ecuador.

"Socialized medicine has many flaws versus private medicine. Due to age and prior conditions , government medical plans are the only "play"," remarked one expat in Manta.

"Manta offers a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality care and are staffed by experienced medical professionals. Additionally, Manta has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. The city also has a number of medical centers that offer specialized services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. In addition, Manta has a number of medical laboratories that provide diagnostic testing and other laboratory services," wrote one expat living in Manta.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Manta can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide access to higher quality care and more specialized services. Additionally, many employers in Manta offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," commented one expat living in Manta, Ecuador.

"Manta is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The city is located on the Pacific Coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. The city is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters. Additionally, Manta is known for its excellent seafood, making it a great place to enjoy delicious meals. Finally, the cost of living in Manta is much lower than in many other cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budget," mentioned one expat inManta.