Los Visionarios – Articles and Publications

By members of the Los Visionarios an intentional community in south Ecuador; July 2001

Following is a description of what we like and we do not like about living in Ecuador. This might enlighten you better if you are considering moving here.

The country over all is breathtakingly beautiful; it is mountains and rolling hills with micro climates and large valleys in between. Ecuador is a model biosphere of the Earth and world center of natural biological diversity. Twenty-five of the earth's 30 life zones are represented in Ecuador, a country of only 106,000 sq. miles (274,540 sq. km.), about the size of the state of Colorado. (USA)

The Weather

Every climatic type from tropic to arctic, and from desert to pluvial is found in Ecuador, with altitudes ranging from sea level to alpine. You can pick the weather you like the most just by picking an altitude; for example we chose 6000 feet, at this altitude the weather remains in the 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. There is a rainy and a dried season. In the rainy season it may rain for several days at a time and be a bit cloudy but not so much as not being able to get plenty of sun and/or sunlight; then there is the dry and windy at times season; it may go on for up to three months with no rain. If you like it hotter or colder, beaches or jungle; all you have to do is go visit a nearby city/area. It can go as high as 90 and as low as 40 more or less; all within a few hours drive.

BIOCLIMATIC REGIONS IN ECUADOR

LIFE ZONES OR PLANT FORMATIONS IN ECUADOR

The People

To us the most important reason for being in Ecuador is the people; let us give you some examples; there are many very nice people who have offered their help without asking nor expecting anything in return, they just keep on giving selfishlessly.

When we first got to Loja we were introduced to a couple in their thirties; they helped us on a daily basis for months; when we needed to buy something, they were there to take us to the stores; when we asked where is a hotel, they said you can stay here with us; when we were in town and asked for directions to a restaurant, they said come eat at our home; another examples, we needed a place to stay for a month, one of our neighbors found out, he came and said here are the keys to our new house we just built, you can stay for as long as you need to, so we did.

Later on we decided to move to Loja while we looked for land all over Ecuador for our Intentional Community; then two ladies took us all over the city until we found a place, just in the name of friendship. When we needed an Internet account, the brother of one of these same ladies offered his, now keep in mind this required trust, cause his account cost $2.00 per hour, which we had to keep track off on and honor system and pay him. We have remained friends up to day; even though we do not use his account anymore.

Another great example of friendship is a familiy that we have become very good friends with. They are a couple in there sixties and their son, wife and children. They knew we were new in the area and wanted to buy land; they made sure all of our negotiation went smooth; in fact one of them negotiated the purchase agreement for us. They gave us keys to one of there homes, which we occasionally used; they made sure we were always invited to all their family affairs/reunions/parties/etc., They are always there when we need them, to them we have become just another members of their family and to us they are like family also, when we go to their home we feel just as if we were in our own.

When the banking/financial problem happened, we got credit at approximately six retail stores; this without even asking, many of these people have become friends, many of then have invited us into their homes for lunch, dinners, etc.

On the mind stimulating aspect (this is something some of you have asked), there is the veterinarian doctor, a highly educated person, who has managed to complete a doctorate degree in medicine (eight plus years in the university) in his early twenties, when it comes to stimulating conversation there are few that can top this fellow, as you may guess such a mind stimulating person must know others; in fact he does, He introduced us to a parapsychologist who perhaps is one of the most highly educated persons we have ever met. We have spent many hours in long stimulating conversations. Another person that we have become very close friends with is an attorney. We have spent many days sharing knowledge with this now good friend, needless to say, you can guess where we stay when we are in town; he has introduced us to many other interesting people, such as three generals, several colonels, numerous other top government officials and private executives; all of which we had a very pleasant time speaking with.

When we go to Quito for example, we stay at friends and/or families house, talk about hospitality, it is so generous that at times it becomes a bit annoying, for example it is assumed that if you are staying in their home that you will be having dinner with them; therefore they may prepare something special to eat; So if you go out to have dinner thinking on not imposing; then get to their home and there is food on the table, now you are in trouble. You say no thanks we are full, they say but we did it especially for you! Now you know how much of a fool you were by eating out and you also learn that next time you go out let them know you are not going to come eat.

Here is yet another great experience we have had, one day while the banking problem was taking place, we were very concerned that we had almost no cash at all, and over 40 workers on our pay roll; basically we were going to be broke for a month until we would find a solution to our finances. Here came a fellow neighbor who has introduced us to a few thers others, he just showed up and said, you know I think the two of you should meet; I know you both and it seems to me like you would make good friends. This has happened a few times. This early morning he had a great surprise, he came with this chemical engineer who specializes in mining, we started talking and within an hour he says, is there something bothering you and we said yeeees; he said what is it? Perhaps we can come back some other time; we said no it is ok, what’s bothering us is that we have to decide today to let go all of our workers or where to get a short term loan because the banks are closed and we are broke. He said no your not; when we finish talking come over to my home and we will lend you all you need; now we are about to become business partners, in fact we hope that him, his wife and daughter will be joining us in the near future.

Some may be insulted if they read this, because we did not mention them. The list is much longer, these are only about half the stories, part of the other half is from foreigners that have relocated here for the same reasons, we know people from Italy, USA, France, Canada, Uruguay, Germany, Austria, Mexico, Peru, Holland and some even from other planets J.

Any time we have a bad day, which only have been a few here, we think about these people and we have a smile on our faces. We know that this is just the beginning, and why we are living here; we have no desire to be any where else; in fact if we had all the money in the world we would probable stay right here, were else would we find such good friends.

Education

The more we search this subject the more we like what is available. Over all we are of the opinion that education in almost all the schools in the world leave a lot to be desired and Ecuador is no different, but when it comes to universities we must tell you that they have a very nice one in Loja, it is called “Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja”, We have been there a few times and we must say is nothing like what we expected, this university is quite modern, with the latest in equipment, and scientific research and investigation departments. The computer department for example is up to date with the latest. This is not your average university, here a student has to work, not just study, each department is a company on its own, they have from research department to production facilities, 90% of the student education is financed by these student ran operations. An alternative school is available near us for small children, it is owned by a French couple, they do an excellent job teaching children ages 4-10.

Happiness

If there were such technology that one could measure happiness per capita we are willing to bet that people here are much happier than most of the industrialized world. Yes they do not have the large screen TV, nor a car, or refrigerator, etc. But we can tell you that most do have a genuine smile on their faces, something that we know most North Americans do not.

Business opportunities

Another thing that we like very much is that business opportunities are plentiful and not just for profit, but areas such as education, ecological and tourism. There are many foundations throughout the world who are willing to donate funds for project such as libraries, schools, agricultural education, farming, hospitals, roads, communication equipment, even airplanes for rural access; Carbon Credit emissions, etc. In the businesses area there are opportunities like nowhere else. It is just a matter of focusing on one or two at a time. You could keep it simply and just run a small farm or you could start a modern complex production facility, there is room for many new businesses. Do not misunderstand us; we have nothing against ecological or green business enterprises; other than the underground issues of using money; which we disagree with and is not about to change in the near future. What is important is to do these businesses in a way that not only does minimal ecological impact but that actually improves the ecology. There are great opportunities in farming, agriculture, waste disposal, mining, wood furniture making, eco-tourism, even for a new brick factory, get your foot in the door of a mining opportunity and you will be rich in a few years. You can choose to donate a percentage of your profits to any of the local ecological foundations that operate in LOJA.

Shopping and Cost of living

Shopping malls and shopping in general? Well let us tell you there are bigger, more modern, better stock, with lower prices, than in most cities in the USA, we know we have visited many of them. Other shopping, autos, electronics, etc are about the same, in some cases even lower prices, we think that about 50% or more of what you can get in the USA, you can get it here locally. The other items are on the Internet you can other them online and get it in the mail, Federal Express, UPS, etc. Yes it will cost you a bit more in transportation cost, but look at the other side, how much do you pay for all you other daily expenses. Now on that subject, we have been paying for a simply studio apartment $14 per month, and apartment goes for $30-50 a real nice house for $200-300, maid $50-70 per month, just to give you some ideas. Prices are going up and will continue to go up; we have no idea how much and by when; the fact is that the country uses now the US Dollar. An average worker gets paid $25 per week and skilled worker $50 to $60.

What we do not like

In the rural areas is difficult to make a phone call, there are few phones, a fax is nearly impossible to send or receive, no cellular phone service, but this may all be history within the next two to three years, On September, 2000 a new law was passed that prohibits monopoly of communication businesses and opens free market competition in the communication sector, we are actively working on solving this problem, by subscribing to satellite communication service, which is now available. We have Internet service via satellite in our home; and a good possibility for a business

Roads; they are in bad condition, but steadily improving, some are as good as they can get, but these are few and mostly in or near the big cities.

Other things we wish were available are, helicopter ambulance service; well equipped hospitals; and good potable water system in the rural areas. There are expensive air-ambulance service available and good services overall, but in the main cities.

We will skipped armed robberies (they happened mostly in Big Cities such as Quito and Guayaquil and of course, thanks to the US government and foreign policy, due to the Plan Colombia and the spraying of harmful chemicals, that they could not sell elsewhere, now the border is also a dangerous place to be at in the AMAZON area. Alcohol drinking addiction is present and higher in the indigenous communities. Petty theft is a cultural habit. Give or take a few examples it is about the same as anywhere else in the world. Keep also in mind that going to the coast touristy area is not the same as living in a rural area, in the coastal area there are many crime related problems. Where we are at everyone knows each other and it is relatively very safe.

The big cities have many of the same problems as any other big city in the world; we are at least six -hour drive from any big metropolitan city.

Another thing we do not like is that people have abused nature due to lack of education, ecological consciousness and economical problems. They cut down forests due to old and outdated government policy and continue to do so. This is changing and continuing to improve, but the fact remains that it is a visible damage as you drive though the country, reforestation is a must do project and it is being done, but very slowly. We are the founders of Fundación Condorhuana the foundations goals are to correct and improve some of these issues.

Poverty is abundant, there are many poor people, some are not conformed about their poor living conditions, but most are happy with what they got. In the agricultural areas, at least they plant and eat of their crops and do not go hungry as in the big cities.

Most any high-tech thing you may want, takes more time to get. Before the Internet was available we used to miss many things like a good English book store or library, but now with the Internet who cares; we can order it and get it in the mail in two weeks, or pay extra and get it in three days. The Internet changes a lot what you can get or not in here.

Good paying jobs are not available, on the other hand business opportunities abound. More than ten percent of the Ecuadorian have left the country in search of good paying jobs elsewhere. This is a unfortunate situation, being a country that has so many natural resources and opportunities. The short version of this story is that a hand full of criminals from a hand full of families have literally stolen a large portion of the countries funds, leaving the country with no financial back-bone to stimulate economy and since people have one too many children there is a demand for more and better jobs.

Crime and government

We are not covering issues that are just different and not necessary worse nor better, such as the legal system, and government, they are simply different but not better nor worse than the USA, which is our point of reference. We could go on numerous examples such as having a jury vs. three judges. One can argue this might take a long time and not come to an agreement. One that we strongly believe is better, is the tax system, but we must admit we have not researched this subject well enough to make a statement other than the one based on feelings, basically there is a 14% tax on almost all items sold in stores, some products have import tax and these are high, very low property tax.

Ecuadorians welcome foreigners

This country loves foreigners and their culture and their language and their clothing, etc. All they ask for is that you be polite and respect their country by not taking more than what you leave, in other words do not go do a oil-mining operation and do ecological damage while you are there leaving a big mess behind and taking the profits with you. On the other hand if you come here start a business employ the local people, teach them to respect their environment, enforce rules to protect it and re-invest you profits here, you will find them to work hard and loyal to you. Visa cost $2,500 in attorney’s fees and you most make an investment of at least $7,500.00 USD or have a job offer or a university degree.

Together we join forces because as a whole we have the answers. As a close, intimate family we will improve our quality of life and will greatly increase our chances of a quality lifestyle and happiness as we help out each other reach our highest goals/ideals.

Singles

Many of you single foreign man have asked us about the ladies; we can assure you that if you are in search of female companionship and or long term relationship this is a good country to be in. Most woman seek financial security; older educated and/or professional men to start with and this is the opportunity for a foreigner to introduce himself, the Ecuadorian woman for the most part is a very loyal companion, old fashion, conservative and eager to please and be there for you at all times, of course there are the exceptions and you have to be wise when picking them out.

For the men interested in a younger woman this is the place to be, most woman do not mind men older than them. If you look at the statistics they say one thing, but we can tell you from my experience there must be eight women per man. If marriage is what you are looking for, that can happened very quickly here. The Ecuadorian woman are eagerly interested in marriage, but this is changing, everyday more woman are less interested in marriage and looking more for a stable quality relationship. Surprisingly most people here look like any European, it seems that after many years of Spaniards and foreigners arriving for mining and foreign companies, Longevity studies, research, ecology, etc the gene pool mix well with them, so expect lots of variety, over all the ladies here are above average in looks, some surprise you on being highly educated also.

As for the ladies searching for relationship, we can introduce you to a few good men.

Life choices

In general, people become overly involved in life routines. They start living like robots, without taking charge of their lives and a direction in which to move or where their existence is going. The great majority of the population is guided solely by life’s physical necessities, appointments and frivolous social engagements, moving to a foreign country is about talking control of your life, about waking up from a walking dream and making conscious decisions, about growth, change and self-improvement. It is a choice to start again and better and refreshed!

About us

The question for us has been where can we increase our daily happiness, our long-term health, the quality of our friendshps, long-term intimate relationships, financial independence, spiritual growth, and create a future worth living for the rest of our life in this solid dimension? The answer for us is – here in south Ecuador and by creating what is know as an Intentional Community.

An Intentional community is where a group of people get together to co-exist and share a same living area, in our case this property of 20+ acres. On this property we have one simple four bedroom house, one large luxury community center and house, plans for at least two more comfortable houses and several others simpler homes. We grow most of the food we eat, we have chickens, pigs, rabbits, fish, ducks, turkey, cow, goats, geese, dogs etc.

Our goal is to share on a daily basis with a group of loving and caring individuals that seek a more harmonious existence in the planet, this we seek to accomplish by reaching out to others that feel their life is not complete and wish to embark on a new way of living in harmony with themselves and the world that surrounds them. We're looking for co-conspirators in health and well-being.

Our kind of people are free, open, courageous, competent, successful, energetic, but also relaxed, at ease, comfortable everywhere they go, prone to go to fascinating places and do fascinating things, curious, enthusiastic, intelligent, well informed, humorous, fun-loving, creative, graceful overall. People, who know how to stir things up, get things moving. The self-invented, the self-activated. Our kind usually like to read, learn and remain open minded. In other words, we're looking for people who see life as a series of sacred experiments.

No matter how shy or quiet you are, we believe that everyone has a quality/talent/skill to share. Among all of our participation we will all have the best answer to implement as a solution while in consensus agreement. We want loving, alternative minded individuals who know what they want. Individuals who are ready to create our future now.

Our web page is: Los Visionarios an intentional community in south Ecuador

How do we plan to support ourselves in the long run?

We have started by organic farming and animal rearing. We are planting trees that the average grower does not, in our case apples, apricot, peanuts, a variety of vegetables, wood, medicinal and ornamentals, etc. We also are in the process of starting a small custom furniture manufacturing plant and hopefully with the aid of the Internet sell the furniture to other countries that can pay a premium for it. We are also involved in the marble and silica via our company Yambala, S.A.

Businesses we are involved in and/or considering:

· Silica sand (SiO2) – Yambala, S.A.

· Black Fossilized Marble – Yambala, S.A.

· Export of custom furniture and manufacturing

· Stillroom Products – The owner is considering relocating here and joining forces with us

· Waste processing plant using Vermiculture (earthworms)

· Selling Internet & phone service via satellite

· Provide our facility for small group seminars and conferences

· Agricultural Project with the local technical university on our land, basically very-high-tech ecological agriculture, done by students

· Large-scale wine making, the soil and climate are ideal and we already have the perfect storage building for it.

· Scientific Station Facility and Botanical Gardens for Students, Graduates, Thesis makers, Bird Watchers, Ornithologists, etc. Foundations we manage

· Fundacion Ecologica Condorhuana – Management of the Podocarpus National Park, Management of funds for the Shuar indigenous people, management of the water basin from Ecuador to Peru and infrastructure projects mostly for the province of Loja area of Vilcabamba and Malacatos.

· AVETUR is an independent association of tourism related concerns dedicated to protecting the ecological, cultural and historical heritage of Vilcabamba.

Conclusion

The world is constantly changing, hopefully it is all getting better as time goes on, but at times some places take a step back and some take a few steps forward, it is hard to predict the future, but for now we believe Ecuador provides a special opportunity for foreigner that is not available where they live now, this may change in the next few years as the economy of the country improves and the prices become close and or the same as everywhere else.