Climate On average the climate of North Central coast of Ecuador is very mild. Temperatures average 76°F (25°C) to 90°F (30°C). The humidity is almost always quite comfortable and rarely drenching, as it can be in a true tropical climate. Even during the short winter “rainy season” between January and April the humidity is entirely bearable. We have beautiful, mostly sunny days with a little rain at night a couple of days a week. There is consistent afternoon on-shore breeze that varies around 8 knots. There are NEVER severe coastal storms in Ecuador. Look for dazzling sunsets each day about 6 pm. Ecuador truly has the best weather in the world. Currency & Monetary The U.S. Dollar is the standard currency in Ecuador. I have found it best to arrive with a good supply of slightly used 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 dollar bills. ATM’s: ATM’s are available in most cites with populations over 5000. It is best to have a PIN with no more than four characters. Banks: Easy to find in most cities. Credit Cards: In using a major credit card, VISA is the most commonly accepted. Attempting to use other major credit cards may or may not be successful. Make sure of any service fees before using your card. Traveler’s Checks: If you have the availability of an ATM, the use of Traveler’s Checks is not recommended. Mostly, Traveler’s Checks can only be changed at banks and larger hotels. I use them only as a back-up to cash and credit card. Electricity U.S. appliances need no converters for the 110 volt service here. Other countries should check. See our links page or Google the info. Language In Ecuador, Spanish is the predominant language, but you will encounter many people eager to practice English! Medical Services Ecuador has 1st world medical care available in Ecuador at unbelievably inexpensive prices. There are many good doctors close by in Jama. There are hospitals in Pederanales and Bahia De Caraquez that are well equipped. Emergency care (as in paramedic response) is available in Bahia. Also, there is a private clinic in Bahia that is fairly well equipped. Many doctors were trained in the U.S.A., Spain and or Cuba. Most are well experienced and have up-to-date equipment. There is a large community of expatriates on this northern coast who are satisfied with the care here. There are also top notch dermatology, ear nose throat, etc., specialists who come to Bahia twice a month. I personally have friends that have had major surgeries here and are happy with the results at 1/6th the cost. Health Insurance There are many good insurance plans available here depending on your needs and requirements. I have an all inclusive plan (for Ecuador only) that covers my family and I and is offered by a 100+ year old Columbian company. Adult males are $24 per month, and adult females are $32 per month. Everything from labs to transplants have a $2 co-pay! When I am traveling around different parts of the world I have a plan offered by Amedex, a U.S. company. As an out of the country resident, I am offered the same plan that is offered in the USA for 1/3rd of the cost, and I am covered anywhere in the world. Included is a medivac flight to wherever you want to have your care. Time Ecuador is on Eastern Standard Time or (GMT-5). Travel: International Airports Located in the Capitol of Quito and the business hub of Guayaquil. In-Country Travel: From the very inexpensive local buses (~$.15- $.50) to “Executive” buses (about $1.00 per hour of travel) to the ever present TAXI ($1.00 for short distance to ~$30 for an all day excursion), public transport is fun, inexpensive and everywhere! I wouldn’t even entertain the thought of renting a vehicle to drive in Ecuador. In-country flights are available between Quito and Manta for ~$50.00. You are commuting between Quito and the coast, this can save you several hours of bus travel.