Expat Spotlight: Rob Dobler

Q: Where did you move from, and where do you live now?

A: We moved from the United States and currently live in Catamayo, Ecuador.

Q: When did you arrive in Ecuador?

A: 14 August, 2025

Q: Please share how you discovered Ecuador, and why you chose to relocate?

A: My wife and I were looking at places outside the US to retire. We knew we would be challenged to retire in the US because of the cost of living. We looked at Belize, Portugal, and Mexico, among other places. My wife saw a YouTube channel with people who had moved to Ecuador and it looked interesting. During an online search we came across Ecuador Expat Journeys and booked a Crash Course 9 months before I retired. My wife is from Alaska and I'm from Boston, and we both are tired of snow and cold weather. I have MS and hot temperatures tend to wear me out. We thought the mountains of Ecuador would be ideal. During the EEJ tour we fell in love with the country and the people.

Q: Are you fully retired, or do you work remotely?

A: My wife and I are both fully retired.

Q: What is your monthly budget?

A: We have a combined income of around $4000, but we've only been here 10 days, so our budget isn't completely set up.

Q: How has life changed for you since moving to Ecuador?

A: We have relaxed!! When we take a walk we talk to people (that is not a habit coming from the US). We have found people to be very helpful and patient with us, another thing lacking where we came from. We walk several times a day, however we can afford to take a taxi or bus when we go shopping. We do not drive ourselves, and I don't miss paying for gas, insurance, etc.

Q: Did you face any challenges adjusting to life in Ecuador?

A: Learning Spanish is definitely our biggest challenge. We also found Catamayo to be quite a bit warmer than what we expected. Climate change has changed the average temperature here.

Q: Describe a day in your life. What keeps you busy?

A: We brought a dog with us, and she is older and overweight (hence several walks each day). We were able to find a Spanish tutor our second day here and we have 3 classes each week. We also just walk around and explore the different tiendas and neighborhoods.

Q: Do you have any advice for other potential Expats?

A: DO come and visit before you pull the trigger. We had been planning to leave the US for 6 years before we came. We knew we couldn't bring our pit bull with us so we waited until he passed. Realize that Ecuador is NOT like anywhere else. The people are very friendly for the most part, but you will stand out (or above) most people here. Ecuador, and most of Latin America, is louder than most neighborhoods in the US. There will be dogs barking and car alarms going off, especially at night. And Ecuadoreans seem to love their fireworks. You need to be able to accept that you are in a different culture, and not try to change it. You are always going to be a guest, but the hosts are wonderful!

If you would like to contact Rob with questions about his journey to Ecuador or life in Catamayo, please send an email to marketing@ecuadorexpatjourneys.com and we will put you in touch!