Visiting Thailand was one of the highlights of my life, but
I don’t want to live there. I didn’t care for the distance, the complex
language, food, heat, or squat toilets.
In Ecuador, the national sport aside from cockfighting is
Gouge-the-Gringo. There are 2 sets of prices. Although still cheaper than here,
this leaves a bad taste in my mouth. And every day life is so different,
navigating will be confusing. For example, bills aren’t paid thru the mail or
online, this is a cash society! You must show up at each individual office,
stand in a long line and hope you don’t have to return the following day. This
sounds like bother and stress to me.
Plus I was warned, don’t pay anything ahead! The concept is
misunderstood and it’ll just disappear in someone’s pocket!
Despite the number of
North Americans expatriating, there is no existing organization or network to assist
in navigating the local culture. I was advised to go to the local coffee houses
where Expats hang-out and strike up conversations.
I’ve learned from past experience that when
you are part of a couple (this can be a friend or relative) people are more
willing to step up and be of assistance. When you are alone, they’re quicker to
distance themselves and leave you to your own devices.
I’ve also been told that neighbors will be of help. Well, if
they are anything like my neighbors here after my father’s death, I won’t be
able to count on them for spit!
Should a zombie apocalypse ever become a reality; I’d better
learn how to wield a Katana fast or else find a bayonet with a flame-thrower. Also
when you’re alone you’re more likely to fall into the radar of the wrong
element.
I thought Spanish would be easier to learn than Thai and I
bought several books. However by the time I moved ahead a chapter, I’d already
forgotten everything I learned in the previous one! Friends tell me this is age
related. Whatever! It’s frustrating! And learning the language is a must!
As far as a future home, I just wasn’t feeling it in either
place. I was explaining this to an acquaintance whose husband was a pilot. She
repeated, “I told you so!” so many times I could swear I was hearing a parrot
with a 4 word vocabulary!
The Expats I spoke with all told me they didn’t regret their
decision and were happy. But that doesn’t mean I would be! I’d have problems adjusting
to Third World life.
Due to health issues, inflation, & home repairs, I’m
feeling continued pressure from the universe to leave!
I’m a tasseologist. (I read tea leaves for fun.) Anyway, I
consulted the tea leaves. The message I received was to make tracks out of
here, FAST! However, since I have a 20% accuracy rate, I’m still hesitant. And
I’M the decider here!
Certainly, I could live far cheaper in a developing country.
Plus food is not only inexpensive but healthier there. Due to the eternal
spring of the Andes, fresh fruits & vegetables are available year round.
Also I want to be able to travel and see more of the world
before I get too old and sick. However, with my restrictive diet, health
issues, the discomfort of Economy Class and the airport aggravation nowadays;
I’m wondering if I’ve already reached that point. On the other hand, I still
have the desire.
But I really love my home! Barring a hospital stay, I can
afford to remain here for a few more years. Perhaps by then, Cuba (or someplace
else) may become a retirement haven for expats. But I haven’t completely ruled
out Ecuador. We’ll see!
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