safety for a single woman and health care

Nonna Rosie wrote:

Hi everyone!  I just discovered this site today. I'm single, age 70, and I speak Spanish. I've been thinking about moving, possibly to Ecuador, for about a year.   The two primary reasons are to get away from oppressive summer heat and to live more simply and inexpensively.

I have and continue to travel extensively. I enjoy experiencing other cultures and have an affinity for Central and South America. My two main concerns are: safety for a single woman and health care.  I would appreciate any information on those subjects.

I look forward to browsing this site and learning everything possible about life in Ecuador. 

Gracias a todos!

Hi,

This thread is for introductions. Perhaps starting a new thread titled with your two concerns will attract more attention from members.

Thanks for the tip!  I'll do that!

Hi Nonna Rosie,

Welcome to Expat.com

I have created a new thread with your post on the Ecuador forum for more visibility and interaction with the members.

Thanks,

Priscilla 

Nonna Rosie wrote:

I'm single, age 70, and I speak Spanish. I've been thinking about moving, possibly to Ecuador.... The two primary reasons are to get away from oppressive summer heat and to live more simply and inexpensively....

My two main concerns are: safety for a single woman and health care.

Dear Nonna Rosie,

Welcome to the Ecuador forum.

1. Safety for a single woman: 

Cuenca could be an excellent choice for this.  Reasons include the many Expats and Expat gatherings .. and the city's record of being one of the safest cities in South America.  Naturally, you enhance the safety factors if you choose to live in one of the safer parts of the city .. and not in an isolated set-up.

Cuenca became a world-class haven for Expat arrivals in this young century due to its beauty, its historical center, the growth of its Expat community and publicity about it in the international live-and-invest press.

2.  Health care: 

Quito and Cuenca both have top doctors and facilities. 

Health care in some of the Pacific Ocean communities has started to catch up.  You would have to research particular communities to see if your health needs could be accommodated.

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I'm a single 70-year-old US citizen who has lived in Cuenca EC for seven years. I live alone in the historic district and never fear for my safety. I walk home at any hour with no problems.
In addition, I have been hospitalized here twice and had surgery both times. The level of care was excellent, the medical staff well-trained. I am self-insured and pay out-of-pocket for all my fees which of course are lower than in US.
I believe there will be news immigration laws in place soon requiring those visiting on a tourist visa and those applying for extension of the tourist visa to show proof-of-insurance upon entering Ecuador.
You can write me at ***  if you want to exchange more mail.
Regina in Cuenca