Vicabamba valley

Very difficult to live here and by using the Ecuadorian cost of living standards highly expensive. Many ex pats rely on new ex pats arriving for their income which, most Ecuadorians can not afford to pay these ex pat merchants for their wares or whatever their endeavors might be.
There is also an air unlike most other locals of animosity from the locals. Many times they're justified by what many of the ex pats do and the display of their condescending airs or attitudes.
Underlying these observations and these comments is the paranoia factor. I found that most of these ex pats have military ties and seem riddled by suspicions and highly cautious with any new American faces (must be with the agency). Their politics to me seems to be radical and there is an expectation that newcomers should have similar political feelings otherwise it seems that you'll find  yourselves somewhat ostracized till proven otherwise. ( Moderated: Please avoid political issues). These are my observation and feelings on Villacomba's ex pat & Ecuadorian folks.
Unfortunately, it is however quite picturesque and very appealing but you'll need to address my comments accordingly. If I may suggest as an alternative to Villa a very similar appealing little berg or village called loja, I believe they are very similar however, the issues I illustrated above in my evaluation of Villacomba's community are for the most part not seen or heard from any Ex pats or Ecuadorians living in and around Loja.
Like most other cities and villages we've visited or stayed at we found the locals to be as we always find them courteous and always willing to help or share their time and resources. I wish we had 10 bucks for every invitation for lunch or dinner we've received from the locals during our trips from the rain forests through the volcanic mountain ranges.
Sorry for the wordy reply but a fair and honest evaluation is needed for anyone entertaining this move to any of many Ecuadorian regions.
FYI, I have no financial interests in Ecuador nor do I want any.

thank you for your in put... we were also thinking of Loja