Michelle Bryan (age 68) embarked on a new adventure by retiring abroad in Ecuador with her husband and thirteen suitcases, marking her first journey outside the United States.
We sat down with Michelle to discuss the advantages of retiring overseas and how she utilized technology to plan her move and transition to life in a foreign country.
What led you to retire in Ecuador?
Upon reaching the age of 62, I decided it was time to retire from my job at a turkey processing plant in Minnesota. My husband was already retired, so we began exploring potential retirement destinations outside the U.S. It was then that I proposed, “Who said we have to retire in the United States?”
International Living has a list of top ten retirement locations outside the U.S., and as I researched further, Cuenca, Ecuador emerged as a popular choice. So we took the leap and decided, “Why not?”
Over two years, I dedicated two hours a day to researching online, reading books, and watching YouTube videos to weigh the pros and cons. I joined expat Facebook groups to gather insights. While many people typically vacation in a new country before moving, we opted to move directly. Some thought we were crazy, others admired our courage. Since our arrival on September 18, 2018, we have not regretted our decision for a single day.
We secured our apartment online prior to our relocation.
How did you connect with people in Ecuador? Is there a strong expat community?
I find GringoPost to be a valuable platform where individuals share announcements and sell items. Connecting with fellow expats is effortless, as there are numerous interest-based groups catering to various hobbies such as writing, acting, painting, pottery, yoga, and more.
Did you and your husband speak Spanish before moving?
Not at all. We relied on Duolingo and Google Translate, and surprisingly, language barriers have not been a significant issue. My Spanish has predominantly improved through everyday activities like grocery shopping.
What tech tools, websites, or apps have been beneficial during your transition?
We use Facebook Messenger to stay in touch with friends and family. To make calls to the U.S., we rely on a MagicJack phone number. Additionally, WhatsApp has been essential for ordering food and communicating with service providers. We also found our apartment online before relocating.
Any advice for those considering retiring abroad?
Flexibility is key. Embrace the cultural differences and refrain from comparing everything to how things are done in the United States. Ecuador has its own unique charm and innovative ideas that are worth appreciating. For instance, a simple feature like a light switch above the bed in our master bedroom has been a pleasant surprise.
What does “aging with attitude” mean to you?
Each morning may bring new aches, but maintaining gratitude for what we have, despite any challenges, is crucial. Recognizing that others may face greater health or financial hardships reminds us to appreciate the present and stay positive.
YOUR TURN
Have you considered retiring abroad or already done so? Feel free to share your plans or experiences in the comments!
Pam Hugi is Senior Planet’s Community and Advocacy Manager based in Brooklyn and a contributing writer for this site.
Photo: Cuenca, Ecuador by alanfalcony – stock.adobe.com
