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As retirees away from home, many want to make a legal Power of Attorney, a Wwill, to ensure that, should we become incapacitated or die suddenly, our wishes regarding our possessions etc can be met. There is at least one facilitator out there who state she can do this for $300. The attorney fee is $400. However, after I had her do this for me, I found the notary fee was twice what I had been assured it would be. I became a little uneasy, so got an attorney to check in for me. It was not a legal PoA only what is called an affidavit. It should have cost only $20, but worse, it has no legal authority at all. My advice is to ONLY go to a known and recommended attorney. I used Sabrina Cabdela.

@Cheryl

Hi Cheryl,

Probably the most common scam is being Gringoed. Cabs, repairmen and the odd small restaurants are examples of where this occurs. Unless you agree on a set cost, in many instances, in the end, you will be charged a higher rate. This can be avoided by 1] Agreeing on a price before service 2) For cabs.... handing over the correct amount that you know is correct 3) Most important!!....learning Spanish and speaking in Spanish as much as possible (this goes a long way).

There are a few others as you get settled. Just ask your fellow expats before any enterprise.

Bob

I agree with what I read from ya'll!  I know better than most as I have been traveling since 2013 and have stayed in major US hotels and smaller hotels as well.  I am aware of practically most that is going on and the reason is I have a degree in Spanish and have been a teacher of such and also as a school administrator.  I'm as white as they come, but Ecuadorians don't have a clue I know Spanish very well.  I have acknowledged what expats are going through and particularly if they are retired professionals.  It is

to bad what they experience especially when they are trying to make their dime go further.

I can say that it has become harder for Americans as Ecuadorians are utilizing what they can to get what they want.  My best advice is have someone you trust that knows Spanish to help all phases of purchasing.

I love the country and have been to many places in Ecuador, but never had the desire to go to Guayaquil or that area.  As you see, look what is going on there!  It is sad that it has changed from the safest to worst in South America for safety!  Good Lu;k Americans and to all others!  Francesco Selleck