*Attend the next Vilcabamba Lifestyle Retreat-BOOK HERE:* https://www.wetravel.com/trips/august-2025-vilcabamba-lifestyle-retreat-abundant-living-retreats-41552325*In this episode:*In this episode of the Ecuador Insider Podcast, Jesse and Brandon explore Ecuador’s safety landscape, sharing insights on the government’s military response to cartel violence and their personal experiences feeling secure in Vilcabamba. They discuss the benefits of life in southern Ecuador, including the tight-knit community and affordability that have shaped their time as expats. The hosts also weave in lighthearted moments alongside deeper reflections, such as Jesse’s thoughts on his family’s sense of safety after a year in the region. Brandon weighs the risks against the rewards of a simpler, more connected lifestyle. This episode offers a candid mix of serious safety discussions, personal stories, and humor, providing a real look at expat life in Ecuador for anyone considering the move.#EcuadorInsiderPodcast #VilcabambaEcuador #ExpatLife #EcuadorSafety #SustainableLiving #RelocateToEcuador #EcuadorExpats #CommunityLiving #SlowLiving #RealExpatStories*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!00:00:00 hello and welcome back to the Ecuador Insider podcast00:02:00 Izhcayluma eco resort’s stress-free zone sign sets the perfect vibe00:05:00 Ecuador was incredibly safe under Correa’s presidency00:17:00 this region offers a slower more meaningful lifestyle00:22:15 safety in Ecuador has shifted but Vilcabamba stays peaceful00:25:00 the military’s response to cartels could be a turning point00:30:00 Jesse feels his family is secure after a year here00:35:00 Brandon weighs the risks of expat life against its rewards00:40:00 the community here is like a big supportive family00:44:30 the retreat lets you experience Vilcabamba’s magic firsthand00:48:00 Jesse’s iguana-dodging tale cracks up the hosts00:57:00 the community’s response to a power outage shows its strength01:02:00 Jesse feels safer here than in many US cities01:07:00 the iguana story resurfaces with even more laughs01:15:00 community resilience shines again in the outage story01:20:00 Jesse reiterates Vilcabamba’s safety edge over the US01:25:00 Brandon reflects on the trade-offs of expat life01:30:00 Jesse reflects on how Ecuador’s pace changed his outlook01:35:00 Brandon shares his vision for a thriving expat community