Portoviejo, Ecuador

Capital City

With a population of just 244,129, Portoviejo is hardly the bustling metropolis some expats may envision. The city, one of Ecuador's oldest, has seen its fair share of economic troubles, and severe budget limitations and high unemployment continue to pose challenges for local authorities. On the plus side, Portoviejo boasts a thriving agricultural industry and a burgeoning gastronomic scene, recently recognized as intangible heritage by the Ecuadorian government. However, the city's climate - marked by a lengthy dry season and unpredictable wet season - may prove a persistent headache for some. Overall, Portoviejo offers a more laidback, provincial experience that may appeal to those seeking an authentic Ecuadorian lifestyle, but its economic woes are an unavoidable reality.