Newbie to the expat blog

Ecuador is an American life style
South American

Ooops! ... yes, so true.  My apologies if my statement was insensitive. But I was referencing the materialistic, self-centered, judgmental view that seems to permeate media, schools, and our community.   My children are wonderful.  We have nice friends.  We enjoy our life.  BUT certainly this is not the only lifestyle that can make one happy.  We look forward to exploring other lifestyles that encourage self-sacrifice, community engagement, and love for fellow man.

There... does that express my thought more completely ; )

It sounds like you are on the right track. Visiting many times and hopefully staying in any area you are considering eventually moving to for a good long while is an important step.

Despite being a small country, the differences from one region to another can be vast. This is not just a country of micro climates, but also micro cultures. It's much less homogenous than the U.S.  Keep this in mind when you visit. Explore, explore, explore. You might find one spot crowded, polluted, and loud, but perhaps the next valley over is peaceful and friendly.