Mandy,

I myself, after visiting, have decided on Salinas for a number of reasons. First is I'm too young to retire (49) and want to get into some different things. I worked out a deal to buy a bar in Salinas while I was there but I also want to look into beachfront development. In fact the climate along part of the coast was my primary reason for choosing Ecuador. Due to the Humbold current effect there is a 60 mile stretch that is warm but very low humidity. Since I have Ruematoid Arthritis this was a large part of my consideration.

You really wont need a car in Ecuador! The Autobus system is great and CHEAP. The local intracity buses are a blast and a great way to see everything but if you're traveling to a certain city then use the Directo Servicio buses. They are air conditioned and have banos. Taxies and private drivers are also cheap... (expect to pay $75 - $100 per day) Once you get your permanent residency you also qualify for 1/2 tourist rates on all intracountry travel including air. Thus flying from Quito to Guayaquil would cost $31 versus $62.... I'd be happy to keep you up to date on my experiences when I go back for good.

Ciao!

William