Quito (Ecuador) or Montevideo (Uruguay)?

[EngineerRosie]

DH and I have reached a crossroads and we need to make a decision quite soon and I have no idea. We can't stay in our current country in 2023, so we're looking for the next place. He has 2 reasonable sounding job offers, one in Quito and the other in Montevideo. I haven't got anything lined up in either city but I am a teacher so it's reasonably likely I'll find something in either city. DC are 5 and 3. Which country / city would you choose? We're interested in safety, quality of life and family life, access to nature, the international schools, the size and vibrancy of the expat community and the Jewish community. I would be extremely grateful for any insight you might have on either city.

Very jealous that you will be getting the opportunity to move with these two options!

Quito is fabulous and you should have no difficulty in getting teaching work there - although it has been over ten years since I was last there. For a family I really would choose Montevideo as being slightly more culturally open and European in feel.

Hope someone can help you with neighbourhoods and schools etc.

Montevideo is a much, much better choice for a Jewish community. Quito doesn't really have one.

Montevideo, especially if you are looking for a Jewish community.

Have only been to Montevideo, really liked it: felt safe and clean, you are in close distance to beautiful beaches and can take a ferry to Argentina. Apparently also a good healthcare system.

I have a friend who grew up in Quito in a gated community and didn’t think it was a safe place.
Wishing you all the best for the move.