Customer Reviews

Culture Shock! Ecuador: A Guide to Customs & Etiquette

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I heartily recommend Culture Shock! Ecuador, to anyone who is planning on visiting Ecuador. I have been to Ecuador several times, and I can tell you that this new publication is a valuable resource. Whether you are planning a short term visit to Ecuador, or have plans to live there for a while, this book will really help the uninitiated, to better understand the Ecuadorian culture and the Ecuadorian way of thinking. Nicholas Crowder includes information in his book, Culture Shock! Ecuador, that other travel books on Ecuador don't think to include. The book is chock full of information on how to navigate your way around in Ecuador. It suggests things to do and places to see. The author also provides information on reliable hotels and restaurants. There is even an extensive list of web sites, so you can surf to your hearts content and learn about other things of interest pertaining to Ecuador. The most valuable thing that can be gained from reading Culture Shock! Ecuador, is a better understanding of the people. The knowledge gained by reading this book can help the traveler avoid falling into the dreaded stereotype of "The Ugly American". It will help the traveler to avoid embarrassing situations caused by a lack of understanding and cultural differences. Nicholas Crowder's book, Culture Shock! Ecuador, presents a well rounded view of Ecuador. I really liked it!

Having bought this book in anticipation of a trip to Ecuador, I am having second thoughts based on the negative impression with which I'm left after reading this book. Although he relates fond memories and favorite foods and regions, it's not clear if he really likes it there. That said, however, Crowder's book is factual(if not a little outdated since it's now 2 yrs old).

As a seasoned traveller to Mexico and Guatemala, I would expect some of the cultural differences (concept of time, casual bribery to get anything accomplished, trouble with visas, etc.), but he offered very little, if anything, to make me actually want to visit Ecuador. Though the book does contain a lot of information for anyone who wants to do business in Ecuador, it's not terribly well written (most business books aren't imho) and certainly not written for the average tourist. Of course, that can be a good thing if you follow the path that he took. Crowder DID live there, though I found it strange that even with an Ecuadorian wife, he mentions that his son doesn't speak Spanish. Makes me wonder how much of Ecuador he really got to know aside from his business ventures.

He does include examples of native poetry, a rundown of typical food fare, transportation issues, and a brief helpful history, all good things to know in a new country. And I do appreciate his advice that you should speak Spanish or employ a native speaker you can trust if you want to spend any time there.

In short, I can confidently recommend this book for anyone wanting to do business in Ecuador but not necessarily for the average traveller. Unless this is your very first trip to ANY Latin country, the cultural information won't be anything new and it may discourage you from visiting altogether.

This book is essential to all travelers going to Ecaudor for either business matters, to live, or for vacation/pleasure. My friend gave me this book before I left for my community service program in Ecuador this summer, and it helped me tremendously in to relating to the country and the people there. In his easy-to-read, almost conversational narration, Nicholas Crowder gave me some insight on manners (what is and is not appropiate to do: for example, usually it is not expected to meet a person until 45 minutes after the time said), social events (parties and what kinds of presents to bring), information on all the cultural traditions, festivities and national cuisine (what's really in that stew?) ... and so much more! Without this book, I would have been clueless. It also includes valuble guides to buying a house, dealing with business colleagues, and setting up bank accounts, etc for those who intend to move there. I recommend this book highly - it tells you the valuble information that other guide books don't mention at all. Don't go without it.

We have been living in Ecuador for the last 7 months and purchased this book before leaving home to help prepare for what was to be instore for us on our arrival to Ecuador. We have found that much of the information contained is very outdated and not really that applicable. We did enjoy the section on history and as an insight into how things may have been done 10 years ago.

I'm hoping to retire to Ecuador or another Andean country in three years or so, so I really looked forward to reading this book. The author is married to an Ecuadorian woman and has lived there for well over 20 years now, and he obviously loves the country. I found the sections on history, geography/ecology and culture/customs quite useful as a starting point. But then, he splashes cold water all over the reader with his sections on crime and health/medicine. He makes even a short visit to Ecuador seem like the most perilous possible journey -- if you don't die from some tropical disease, you surely will be mugged, robbed or murdered. In effect, he seems to be saying "Gringos! Keep Out!" Very disappointing.

I've lived as a gringo in Ecuador for almost three years now. I didn't order this book until only a few months ago, so had been exposed to the culture and customs well before hand. This book is spot-on in virturally every aspect. If you plan on spending any signifigant amount of time in Ecuador, this book is a must-read. You'll not likely be able to do anything about it, but at least you'll know what to expect!

I have never met the author, but our experience is far different and much more positive than his. Read the book for the facts and history; he does a wonderful job in those areas. But please do not judge Ecuador by the 'sore loser' tone with which he writes. Despite Mr. Crowder's experience, we moved to Ecuador as retirees. Please visit and judge for yourself. I kept this book for the cultural and historical facts, but the rest is one opinion (as is this review).

I was given this book as a gift before leaving for Ecuador. Firstly let me say that it is written from the perspective of a quite senior American businessman. There's nothing wrong with that, but if you're looking for the backpackers budget guide, this ain't it. Having been in Riobamba for just two weeks now, I haven't really found the book much use to me. My early observation are; there is a big divide between the indigenous people and the middle class. Nobody seems to smoke, drink, or wear watches. If you smile and smile and attempt to speak Spanish however badly, you will be very well looked after. I really dont want to dump on this book, I find the author honestly outspoken, and though I dont think we'd have much in common if we met up, if you fit into the target readership you may well get a lot out of this book. I also have Lonely Planet Guide and to tell you the truth its a bit dry and old-fashioned. There aren't a lot of guides to Ecuador. Please excuse the cruel two stars; it just wasn't for me but it might be for you!