Can anyone advise me on the best way to take my money to Ecuador? The PO recommend a Post Office Travel Money Card. Are these usable in Ecuadorian cash machines? Or, if I open a bank account there, will I be able to just transfer it over the internet? The reason I want to do it now is that I am worried about the exchange rate against the dollar.
Also - I wasn't going to take anti-malarial medication but my doctor just gave me a big lecture. It's very expensive here and I can only take the one that is an anti-biotic because I have epilepsy. According to the WHO map, there is malaria in Loja. Do other Ecuador teachers take the medication, and does it have side effects if you take it long-term?
Any advice appreciated.
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AlixM09,
I think you are doing a good job of explaining as best from your own personal experiences from UK to Loja, Ecuador. I admire your initiative, courage and enthusiastic vigor. I have been to Quito, Cuenca for a short while. I love the country and what it has to offer. I went with one of my ESL students. It was great.
Thanks Kallen, I usually carry cash in a holster under my arm and then have a more obvious bag that they can take if they want. I will look up the vitamin D thing, as I have found out that it was in the area of Loja that my dad got malaria. But the medication sounds horrible, so if vitamin D is good, that's really useful info. My sister has had her pockets slit with a stanley knife in a crowd in Quito, so it's a hard choice.
I hope to meet you soon!
Sounds like good advice Kallen. I'm still unsure about the anti-malarial meds.
How easy is it to open a bank account in Ecuador?
Alix,
I have found the WHO to exaggerate and even sometimes be inaccurate about things. I don´t think the WHO is so concerned about the health of citizens around the world for they have mass conflict of interests with pharmaceutical companies. La Costa and Loja has probably the same risk of malaria. In Quevedo, insects are everywhere and do not let up when it comes to biting you. Insects have almost eaten me alive and I am still healthy as can be. After all, La Sierra should have less mosquitoes than La Costa because of the high altitudes. From what I've been told, there is no requirement to take any medication or vaccination unless it is a school requirement. My advice skip the medication but remember you know your body and your condition better than anyone. Vitamin D is just as effective as any medication or vaccination (Times Online March 2010).
In regards to the money, opening a bank account in Ecuador may not be a bad idea. If you have a credit card, then the exchange rate transfer is automatic. Or maybe you can buy a prepaid credit or debit card and put your money on separate cards to take with you.
I tell women down here all the time and they still do not listen (maybe you will). Try not to carry a purse or coach bag unless it is really necessary. Use your pockets. Anything like a purse or coach bag is an invitation to a robbery. If you choose to go with the multiple cards method, do not put all of your cards in the same place. Maybe try putting one in your bra and the other in your sock.
Hope this helps.... Kallen
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