Ecuador 
South America
Capital: Quito
Languages: Spanish (official), Amerindian languages
Au Pairs in General:
- The idea of being an au pair is becoming common in Ecuador.
- Applicants from Ecuador are motivated by the opportunity to improve their English and study in the U.S.
- The job potential of an au pair improves upon her return to Ecuador.
- Applicants sometimes have difficulty affording the program fees.
- Young people in Ecuador have the freedom of their family to socialize and date.
- Curfews are common.
- In general, young women are accustomed to sharing in household chores; however, middle class applicants will have maids to perform household tasks.
- Nudity is not acceptable in public, nor is topless sunbathing.
- Ecuadorians are family-oriented, warm and conservative.
Diet:
- Most young people in Ecuador eat meat.
- Vegetarianism is becoming popular, but is not yet widespread.
- A typical Ecuadorian diet includes rice, potatoes, and meat. Ecuador is known for its exotic fruits, fish and seafood, tasty soups, and the countless varieties of Andean potatoes.
Religion:
- The most common religions in Ecuador are Catholicism and Protestantism.
- Most young people in Ecuador do not practice their religion regularly.
Photo by: Rinaldo Wurglitsch {flickr}