Telephone service within the country is poor, but international connections are good, although expensive. There are cellular telephone services now available in a large portion of the country. Comfortable modern housing is readily available in Quito and Guayaquil. Apartments and town houses are more commonly used by foreigners than free standing houses. There are numerous health hazards in Ecuador, principally caused by contaminated water and food.
Gastrointestinal problems are frequent.
Cholera is present in some parts of Ecuador. Visitors who follow proper precautions about food and drink are not usually at risk. There have been cases of rabies in Guayaquil and Quito. All types of food are readily available, but proper preparation is essential. There is a wide variety of excellent restaurants in the main cities.