I was born in Canada, and have lived most of my live here (I taught for one year in New Zealand). I have been very fortunate to work in a number of interesting fields (historical research, social work, writer) and have been a teacher in the Ontario school system for the last 12 years. Although my professional life has been varied and interesting (and I wouldn't change a thing) savings are limited, and my teacher's pension will not be huge because I did not start teaching until late in life. There would also no doubt be more in the bank if I didn't like to travel ((Hungary, Poland, Austria, Russia, Czech Republic, Slovakia in the past few years), but life is for the living, and I have enjoyed every second of it. Teaching is wearing and draining and I am hoping to retire within the next 1-3 years, perhaps sooner as the Canadian winters are become more difficult to endure as I age. This past one (which doesn't appear to be over yet) was particularly difficult. I have only started researching in the past few months, but have been drawn to Ecuador several times due to its climate, health care services, and quality and cost of living. For the moment, I do not have any specific questions, but will be reading the board faithfully for suggestions and ideas. The idea of packing up and moving from my home country is a bit unnerving, but the idea of living somewhere snow-free has tremendous appeal. Please feel free to contact me with any suggestions or experiences; as I said, this is all very new to me, and all comments will be greatfully received. i am looking forward to hearing from you.
John