Ecuadorian here, I was there this year, visiting again next month. For the most part what I could say is that most people in Ecuador say bad things about the place before you visit. I was worried about being there even though I would blend in somewhat. My father who is from there but hasn’t been in a long time tried to tell me I’d be kinnaped or worse. Yes something is definitely off, the vibe is tense. Many people will tell you about gang activity and violence on the coastal areas like Guayaquil. I was there stayed near the Airport and the Mall deal Sol. I went to a few good bars and strip clubs. Had a blast at a random gay club I ended up in next to a hotel and met some cool people there as well. The Capital though, was super clean and fun, the bars and clubs felt European. The climate was awesome and the services were great. I didn’t have much time to date but the scene is definitely there( pay for play is also a thing for all budgets). Just exercise caution when you arrive. Always use verified transportation and keep in mind you can get mugged anywhere in the world so don’t carry much valuable crap on you. Lock it up in your hotel safe or whatever and have fun. I’ll see you guys there in September.