Upon moving to Ecuador with her young family, Kristi faced the triple gauntlet of a strange language, an over-stretched budget, and a disturbing political climate. Was it her Scandinavian tenacity that prevented her from succumbing to extended culture shock but, instead, spurred her to build an immense reserve of cultural capital? Whatever the motivation, this remarkable young Swedish woman became determined to learn everything possible about her new country: its language, its customs and traditions, and the way its people relate to family, friends, and visitors. Written in a lively style, Kristi's book reveals the magic and wonder of a country and a people who sang to her soul. It is a must-read guide for anyone wishing to visit or settle in Ecuador. Dr. Tom Becker, New Mexico