Hi Reader!

We've been in Cuenca for a few weeks now and a lot of people have stopped us on the street and in restaurants to ask us if we're moving back to Ecuador or living here now.

The short answer to that question is: No, we're not.

As many of you know, it was always our plan to slow travel once our dogs passed away. Alicia died while we were living in Olón at the ripe old age of 20 and Daisy left us on August 30, 2023 while we were living in Cumbaya.

As much as we loved Ecuador (and still do), the call to explore the world was stronger. We sold, donated or stored everything we owned and started our world travels on October 12, 2023.

Since then, we've visited over 25 countries in Europe, SE Asia and Latin America. In total, I've now been to 35 countries and Amelia has been to 32.

But there are SOOO many more places to see!

So, in a couple of weeks, we'll be heading to Panama City to host our third Leap for the Turtle Travel Club before heading back to SE Asia and Europe for our next round of Leaps.

We're not sure how long we'll continue slow traveling, or where we'll eventually end up, but Ecuador is still at the top of our list (although we do have a couple of additional options for a second residency visa).

With so much more of the world to experience, we're not ready to call anyplace home just yet.

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News for Global Citizens

Here's what we learned about the world this week...

Travel News

Estonia Named Europe’s Friendliest Country In Europe

According to Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, Estonia, a small Baltic nation, has been voted the friendliest country in Europe, surpassing perennial favorites like Portugal and Greece. The unassuming nation, known for its forests, saunas, and medieval capital Tallinn, drew praise from readers around the world for its warm welcome to travelers. Source

EU’s New Entry/Exit System Launched - What Travelers Must Do Now

The European Union has officially launched its long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU nationals, designed to tighten border security and track overstays in the Schengen Area. Starting October 12, member countries will phase in the system over six months, with several airports already using it. Travelers will now scan their passports at self-service kiosks and have biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, collected and stored for up to three years. While the EU says the system will streamline border checks, many travelers remain confused and anxious about potential delays, with surveys showing most don’t fully understand how EES will affect their trips. Source

9 Surprising Countries Where U.S. Citizens Need a Visa Before You Travel

Despite the power of the U.S. passport, there are still several destinations where Americans must secure a visa, or at least an electronic travel authorization, well before departure. The article highlights nine such places (updated for 2025), explains which ones now require e-visas, how long they take to process, and special conditions (for example, Australia’s ETA, Brazil’s renewed e-visa rule, China’s streamlined application, and more). It’s a helpful reminder that “visa-free” doesn’t always cover every country, and travelers should always double-check entry rules before booking. Source

Derry Transforms Into Europe’s Halloween Capital

For four haunting nights in late October, Derry (Londonderry) goes all in, hosting Europe’s largest Halloween festival in homage to its Celtic roots in Samhain. The entire walled city becomes a stage for magic and myth: expect parades, light shows, drummers, acrobats, themed “zones” along the Awakening Trail, and a grand fireworks finale over the River Foyle. Thousands come in costume, the streets pulse with music, and the atmosphere leans equal parts spooky and celebratory. Source

United Unveils Bold Summer 2026 Flight Plan

United Airlines is shaking up its 2026 summer schedule with major new nonstop routes from Newark to Split (Croatia), Bari (Italy), Glasgow (Scotland), and Santiago de Compostela (Spain), making it the only U.S. carrier to serve some of those cities directly. The airline is also boosting service elsewhere, banking on strong demand across transatlantic and global markets. With tickets already on sale, travelers now have smoother options to offbeat European destinations. Source

Want to explore the world slowly, like we do? Check out the Slow Travel EXPRESS eCourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

Expat News

This Italian Island Is Selling Homes for €1 - But There’s a Catch

An Italian island is turning heads with homes listed for just €1, hoping to attract new residents and revive its dwindling population. Buyers get bargain-basement prices but must commit to restoring the crumbling properties within a strict deadline—or risk hefty fines. While a handful of renovated homes now fetch six-figure sums, most require serious investment. The campaign is equal parts opportunity and gamble, offering dreamers a slice of la dolce vita, if they’re willing to put in the work. Source

Portugal Named World’s Top Retirement Spot, Europe Dominates the Rankings

A new Global Retirement Report ranks Portugal as the world’s most appealing destination for retirees, thanks to its mild climate, strong healthcare system, tax benefits, and clear pathway to residency and citizenship. Europe leads the way in retirement-friendly visa programmes, with Spain, Greece, and Austria also scoring high for safety, quality of life, and integration. The study evaluated 44 countries across factors like cost of living, ease of relocation, tax efficiency, and retirement infrastructure, noting that many nations in the Americas, Asia, and Africa are now competing by offering simple visa schemes and favorable conditions for retirees. Source

Planning a move abroad? Check out our Move Abroad EXPRESS eCourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

Spain Tops 2025 Ranking as Best Country for Digital Nomads

In 2025, Spain earns the top spot in a new global ranking of digital nomad destinations thanks to its long-stay visa options, solid tech infrastructure, and high quality of life. The index evaluated countries based on factors such as visa costs, benefits, tech environment, economic conditions, and lifestyle appeal, with nine of the top ten locations located in Europe. Source

British Couple’s Bulgarian Retirement Dream Turns into a Healthcare Nightmare

British expats Christine and Eric Thompson moved to Bulgaria in 2016 seeking a slower, cheaper life, but now say they’re desperate to leave after Christine was nearly killed twice by what they describe as “bungling doctors.” Mismanaged prescriptions left her with lasting heart and thyroid damage, and she says she was thrown out of a hospital after refusing unsafe medication. The couple claim Bulgaria’s healthcare system is archaic and corrupt, everyday service is poor, and costs aren’t as low as promised. They’ve listed their £242,000 villa in the Balkan Mountains for sale and plan to move to France, warning others that the dream of retiring abroad can quickly unravel when reality sets in. Source

Can Paraguay Become the Silicon Valley of South America?

Paraguay is aiming to become a regional tech powerhouse by leveraging its cheap, renewable hydroelectric energy and young workforce. Business leader Gabriela Cibils, who returned after years in Silicon Valley, is helping attract global tech firms, while the government invests in a new $20 million digital park and a joint University of Technology with Taiwan. Programs like Girls Code are training the next generation of software engineers, especially women. Though challenges like bureaucracy persist, leaders believe Paraguay’s mix of green energy, talent, and stability could turn it into South America’s next innovation hub. Source

Ecuador News

End of the Imbabura Shutdown Remains in Limbo Amid National Protests

The province of Imbabura in Ecuador continues to be a flashpoint in the nationwide protests over the removal of the diesel subsidy, as efforts to end the local strike remain inconclusive. Despite openings for dialogue and some calls for de-escalation, Indigenous organizations leading the shutdown demand deeper structural changes. Meanwhile, the region faces growing disruptions - road blockages, supply shortages, and tensions with security forces - while the government signals it may resort to force if talks fail to advance. Source

International Airlines Return to Ecuador With New U.S. and Mexico Routes

Ecuador’s skies are getting busier as two international airlines resume operations with new connections to the United States and Mexico. The expanded routes aim to strengthen Ecuador’s position as a key regional hub, improve tourism access, and boost business travel. Flights to U.S. cities like Miami and New York are being reinstated, while new Mexico City routes are also launching to meet growing demand. Authorities say these additions will increase competition, lower fares, and support the country’s post-pandemic economic recovery. Source

Planning a move to Ecuador? Check out the updated Ecuador EXPRESS eCourse (it's on sale for 50% off).

Ecuador Hotels Win Michelin Keys, Top Properties in Quito, Galápagos & More

The Michelin Guide has awarded Llaves Michelin (the hotel equivalent of restaurant stars) to five Ecuadorian hotels, placing them among the world’s best. The honored properties are Mashpi Lodge, Pikaia Lodge, Casa Gangotena, Hotel Otavalo, and Hotel del Parque. Mashpi Lodge and Pikaia scored two keys each, while the others received one key. The designations recognize excellence in service, quality, and experience, spotlighting Ecuador’s growing reputation in high-end hospitality. Source

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That's all for now! Let us know if you have any questions by replying to this email 👍

JP (Amelia Says Hola)​
​AmeliaAndJP.com

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