Russian colonies have formed in various parts of Ecuador, but the most cohesive community can be found in the capital, Quito. Here lives the majority of our compatriots, about 800 people. In Guayaquil, the second most important city in the country, around 700 former USSR citizens have settled. In small towns, the number of Russian speakers varies from two to ten people.

According to unofficial data, the total number of Russian speakers in Ecuador is between three and four thousand people. However, communication among themselves is maintained only by small groups, as noted by the rector of the Holy Trinity parish in Quito, Archpriest Alexey Karpov.

Nadezhda Kletzkova, our compatriot, shares her impressions: "Ecuadorians are a friendly people. At first, it was unusual when a stranger on the street would say: 'Good day!', 'How are you?'. They are very open and simple, especially in small villages. However, in Latin America, the lack of urgency and slowness can be irritating. For example, the bill in a restaurant can take an hour to arrive. If they promise to come in an hour, expect them in three. If they say something will be ready in a week, it will actually take two. As for housing, the cost depends on your requirements. On the coast, right by the ocean, for a small room with a toilet, shower, and kitchen, as a 'gringo', you will pay about $300. Work on the coast is seasonal, and the salary for a hired worker is about $8-15 a day. Prices here are similar to those in the Russian provinces, but some goods are significantly more expensive. The average salary is $400-600 a month. It is not difficult for a woman to find work in the tourism sector: in hotels, restaurants, and shops. If you are a doctor, lawyer, or educator, you can also find work, but a license will be required."