Live In Ecuador
I discovered the country of Ecuador only in the last year. I further discovered the city of Cuenca in Ecuador. This city, Cuenca, is a beautiful city with perfect san diego type weather. The scenery is spectacular, the people are friendly. The country is at peace and is relatively safe. (especially compared to large U.S. cities).Here, you are a few hours from the Amazon, few hours from the Pacific ocean and beautful beachs. You are at a high elevation here and the views of the mountains are breath taking.
The food and fruits are incredible and good for your health. I was very surprised at the large North American community here in Cuenca. There are Canadians, Americans, europeans, a mix of all types.  A great deal of folks here are bi-lingual. I speak very little spanish but have been able to get around the city just fine.
Getting visas and all legal documents is a breeze here. Real estate values are very low compared to U.S. prices.
Cost of living in Ecuador is much less than the U.S. but not dirt cheap as some say on the internet. I have found that you can live here for as little as $1,500 a month. You can live here like a king in a 5,000 sq. ft. home for about $ 3,000 a month. My point is you can live here as conservatively or extravagantly as you choose. Your expenses here will be much less, that is for sure.
Joe www.live-in-ecuador.com