Quito

I've spent the past four months living in Quito, and to be honest, I've decided that I won't be returning to this country again. My experience here has been incredibly frustrating, especially when dealing with the average Ecuadorian citizens. For instance, when you go to a store and ask for a specific item, you often end up with something entirely different. Additionally, using Uber has its challenges, as many drivers keep their phones in their laps, constantly glancing down at the GPS instead of using a phone holder for safety.

While I've always had a love for dogs and grew up with them, my time here in Quito has led me to develop a genuine fear and dislike for them. It's not just the stray dogs causing issues on the streets; it's also the ones owned by people in lower-income areas. Many of these dogs are not properly controlled and have a tendency to randomly attack passersby. I had a particularly distressing encounter with a group of aggressive dogs during my third month here.

Moreover, if you happen to wear shoe sizes above 10 and a half, you'll face difficulties finding suitable footwear, as these sizes are rarely available anywhere in the city.

As for the dating scene, I found it to be quite lackluster, especially as a male. Quito doesn't offer a wide range of activities or a thriving expat culture. Most locals you encounter seem to be interested in forming friendships only to gain something from you.

On a more positive note, I did find some redeeming qualities in Quito, such as the ability to take quick trips to places like Banos and the overall cost of living. However, based on my experiences, I wouldn't recommend living in Quito for an extended period, as it doesn't offer much in terms of a fulfilling experience. You're not missing out on much by choosing to explore other places instead.

I have been living in Quito for almost 3 years, and at this moment in time, I can not recommend it as a travel or remote work destination. A number of high profile terrorist attacks have rocked the country, and the prevalence of random violence and kidnappings in urban areas is increasing. Drug trafficking has decreased safety throughout the country, and no one is out at night past 8 pm. The streets are literally empty once it gets dark. I wish it weren't so, but I'm not considering leaving because of how bad the security situation has gotten since I moved here.

I've made Quito my base and it has its pros and cons. It's not a lively city but there's still decent events if you know where to go to. I recommend staying in La Carolina, more specifically around avenida Portugal. El Cafecito in La Mariscal is my favourite place to work from (they have great breakfasts). Locals are very polite but not the most extroverted. Another downside of Quito is that due to the US dollar, everything is a bit more pricey than in other latinamerican capitals (e.g. Lima, Bogotá). On the plus side, there's many tax advantages for europeans working online as a contractor and I actually end up saving a lot of money that way.

I have lived in the La Carolina District of Quito now for 3 months and love it so far. U started out with an Airbnb but found an awesome apartment including all but electric for 500.00 a month. 24/7 Security, gym,sauna and steam room. I walk to most places or was using taxis but Uber seems to be safer plus you know the cost upfront. Price is about the same. Most foreigners go to Cuenca but if you notice the prices as almost 500.00 more. Also Quito is next to the international airport.

AMAZING country, You will not get bored because it is super rich both culturally and for nature-related activities (hikes, lakes, waterfalls, etc). Everything is pretty close to Quito.
But be very careful not to walk around with laptop or cellphone-not even at daylight. Safety is not good. Specially if you are alone.

Very underrated. Had a great time staying in La Carolina. I have friends who have been living there for 3+ years and can confirm safety has gotten a bit worse but it's still reasonable. Prices are affordable and there's many hiking spots within 1-3 hours.

There are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants where it's normal for people to go with their computers! We have seen people working/have worked in many places around the city including Donde Gopal (vegetarian restaurant), Tandana (vegan restaurant) and cafes like Jaru. Quito is a beautiful city but I do not walk around here at night.

Carolina is not safe anymore. Agree with the rest. Live in Quito for 7 years

beautiful city, lovely people and culture, prices are affordable, but not that safe in general. The crime has been rising in Quito. Wouldn't recommend staying in the historic area if you want to go out at night (because most locals won't leave their houses once it's dark due to crime, especially important for women to note this). In the daytime, relatively okay to walk around but i wouldn't recommend taking a computer to a coffee shop (it's not that type of city and would raise eyebrows). I recommend dressing down and not wearing jewelry and taking uber if you need to get around. Knowing some Spanish will get you by further. If you're looking for nightlife you can check out the Zona Rosa which is pretty safe at night and is a good place to stay if you want to go out at night. Meals on average are $2 for a full plate of food juice and dessert. The safest neighborhood to stay in is near the park La Carolina which is might as well be an entirely different city (this is basically the "rich area" but is nice to stay at because you can also go out here at night and be safe). Also this area tends to have more modern apartments available on AIRBNB with aircon/heating/internet that sort of thing. InaQuito/Baton are the safest neighborhoods for nomads.