3lckr
American expat in Argentina
Forum posts
204
Contacts
10
About me
American
Lives in Quito
Registration: 28 November 2010
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
It went a bit off topic, but, anyway. If you travel to Argentina: bring US Dollars or any other "good" currency in cash! for the whole duration of your trip. While selling on the street is illegal, so are many other things, like riding on the ... Read More
pesos for dollars
There is no point discussing it unless you are coming to Salta. I'll take something in between buy/sell street rate. Cheers Read More
Dental work in Argentina
Divide it by 9 for USD. I can recommend someone in Salta. Read More
Foreigners opening a bank account by LindaLynda
I am wondering if foreigners can open savings accounts in Bolivia and if so what is the current interest rate?
I live in Argentina and because of the mess here with the exchange rates I wanted to open an account in USD abroad. Bolivia is not an option unless you want to get a residency there. I found one bank in Paraguay and many banks in Uruguay that would ... Read More
Dental work in Argentina
Here are some estimates in Salta: - porcelain veneer - AR$ 3,100 - implant - AR$ 8,000 - root canal - AR$ 550 This is at a high-end dentist. With the blue rate at 1:9, it is about the same as in Ecuador. Read More
Rent a flat or a house in Salta by Christine
Finding a place to live is a priority when settling in Salta. Your experience will be of a great help for the members who want to settle in Salta. Therefore, we have prepared some questions for you: Is it hard to find a flat or a house for ...
OK, at this moment there is space. However, since you cannot pay anything for a booking, they cannot actually book it for you. When you are in Salta, come over 24/7, it is at Alvarado 1070, between Pelligrini and Jujuy. There is a front door ramp ... Read More
Rent a flat or a house in Salta by Christine
Finding a place to live is a priority when settling in Salta. Your experience will be of a great help for the members who want to settle in Salta. Therefore, we have prepared some questions for you: Is it hard to find a flat or a house for ...
I asked and yes, they would rent a room for $1700 pesos monthly or $500 pesos weekly, food is not included. There is a wifi, actually there are a couple. Current blue rate is 1:8.75 in Salta. Well, let me know where are you, when are you ready to ... Read More
Dental work in Argentina
Hello everyone, I'm planning a major dental makeover. Major meaning some bridges, crowns, porcelain veneer. If anyone did something like this please post you experiences and prices paid. I want this before I travel to Ecuador where I know that the ... Read More
Rent a flat or a house in Salta by Christine
Finding a place to live is a priority when settling in Salta. Your experience will be of a great help for the members who want to settle in Salta. Therefore, we have prepared some questions for you: Is it hard to find a flat or a house for ...
To rent in Salta and in Argentina in particular is a headache for an average expat. They all want a collateral in a form of another property in Argentina... makes a lot of sense, right? To be able to rent you need to own a property... Havn't seen ... Read More
Foreigners opening a bank account by LindaLynda
I am wondering if foreigners can open savings accounts in Bolivia and if so what is the current interest rate?
No foreigner without Bolivian cedula can open a bank account. Tried and failed. The normal latino "can't say no" will get on the way and you might actually waste some time in some banks but it will not go anywhere. The Bolivian residency is not that ... Read More
Sending packages to Paraguay via DHL or FEDEX by Gabtar
I was wondering if anyone has experience with receiving small packages in Asuncion from overseas, ie USA and UK, when they have been sent via FEDEX or DHL. Is it safe, or will it magically disappear when going through customs? What about the ...
There are services in Paraguay, such as ParaguayBox, AsuncionBox Express, Google them, and some others that are cheaper alternative to DHL. They will give you their US, usually Miami address, you buy and ship stuff there, they will ship it to ... Read More
Which bank opens accounts with passport by 3lckr
So far, I've been unsuccessful in finding a bank that would open an account where I can deposit initial $5K or other amount so that later present it to the immigration. Any recent experiences? Thank you!
1. You certify a copy of anything at "escribano", it is a notary, they are all over the place, the one I used is right in front of the Immigration. A stamp costs 2000-4000 Guaranees, depending on... their mood or the moon and the sun... ... Read More
Which bank opens accounts with passport by 3lckr
So far, I've been unsuccessful in finding a bank that would open an account where I can deposit initial $5K or other amount so that later present it to the immigration. Any recent experiences? Thank you!
FRESH UPDATES from the field. Something changed, and recently. NO banks in Paraguay open any kind of account, not even a CD (plazo fijo) if you don't have at least "admision permanente" card. In the last few days I passed through ALL the banks. The ... Read More
Returning to Paraguay by Gabtar
I have been granted Permanent Admission to Paraguay. My problem is that I am in Australia, and my permanent admission card has been picked up by a friend in Asuncion, and that's where it remains. I don't trust the postal system enough to have it ...
Do you know by any chance if you pay an income tax in Paraguay of out of Paraguay income? Sorry, a little off the subject, but you seem to be knowledgeable and the only person "alive" on the forum. Thanks in advance! Read More
Returning to Paraguay by Gabtar
I have been granted Permanent Admission to Paraguay. My problem is that I am in Australia, and my permanent admission card has been picked up by a friend in Asuncion, and that's where it remains. I don't trust the postal system enough to have it ...
Congratulations! How long did it take for you to get the card? Read More
Income taxes in Paraguay
Question: Do I need to worry at all about Paraguayan income taxes if while living in Paraguay I wire to myself from the States say US$10K per month, or more... or less? Thank you!!! Read More
Which bank opens accounts with passport by 3lckr
So far, I've been unsuccessful in finding a bank that would open an account where I can deposit initial $5K or other amount so that later present it to the immigration. Any recent experiences? Thank you!
Very helpful! Thanks a lot! Read More
Which bank opens accounts with passport by 3lckr
So far, I've been unsuccessful in finding a bank that would open an account where I can deposit initial $5K or other amount so that later present it to the immigration. Any recent experiences? Thank you!
Banco Nacional de Fomento agreed to open an account. They want: "Certificado de vida y residencia" and "Certificado de Interpol". How do you get them? Thank you! Read More
Paraguay Immigration website
I can't find the Paraguayan Immigration website anymore, I was able to find it easily by Google in the past. Anyone can give directions, please. Read More
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
For local spending you'll need some guaranies, although almost anyone accepts US$. Read More
DNI help needed by Abel Archer
I'm moving down there in two weeks. I don't have a job lined up yet, but I want to have all of my paperwork in order should I need to apply for a DNI. My question is this: I understand that the FBI criminal background check is basically void if you ...
Your criminal record from the States or anywhere else is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. If you don't have to go to big cities, the best for immigration is Salta: no wait for initial application appointment, in 3 months DNI is delivered ... Read More
Severe peanut allergy... by ChowBella
Hi everyone, This question is about Ecuador in general although we are planning on Cuenca as a final destination. My husband has several food allergies, a peanut allergy being the most pressing and threatening one. I've been reading about ...
I have a peanut allergy too. The only time I got in trouble in Ecuador was after eating in a Lebanese restaurant in Quito where sauces were mixed on peanut powder. Other than that just watch out for bakery items like cakes that might contain ... Read More
Which bank opens accounts with passport
So far, I've been unsuccessful in finding a bank that would open an account where I can deposit initial $5K or other amount so that later present it to the immigration. Any recent experiences? Thank you! Read More
ATM withdrawals in Bolivia
Hey, everyone! Can anybody confirm if it is possible to withdraw in USD from ATM's in Bolivia? Whether it is yes or no, can you also confirm the fees involved in using a US (or another foreign) ATM card in Bolivia. Thanks a lot! Cheers. Read More
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
Ok, guys, I am in Asuncion now, and what has not been mentioned is that any ATM here charges $5US or 25000 Guaranies to withdraw any amount in addition to all other fees and the max is from $150 to $300US per withdrawal depending which bank and ... Read More
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
It is 3% with HSBC always even if you withdraw USD. Read More
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
Thanks, tera! Yea, HSBC charges me 3% every time, dollars or other currencies. Read More
ATM's in Paraguay by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
Thank you! Sorry to bother you with another one: do you withdraw from US bank by any chance and what is the official/unofficial exchange rates to US$? Appreciate it. Read More
ATM's in Chile by 3lckr
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Chile allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks!
OK, thanks. I heard rumors that it is like in Peru where the ATMs give you a choice: dollars or soles. Cheers. Read More
ATM's in Paraguay
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Paraguay allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks! Read More
ATM's in Chile
Can anybody confirm that ATM's in Chile allow you to withdraw in US$? Thanks! Read More
Crime Story by Nards Barley
What I find odd about this story is I didn't see it in the El Mercurio or the El Tiempo newspapers, and I usually at least scan them each day. Maybe they don't want to spook tourists. [quote]On July 16th, 2012, a female U.S. expatriate living in ...
palmtree, you are right with your doubts. The key to all bad in Ecuador is their judicial system. And their police does show up when you call, but unfortunately they face the same law of use of force as a regular citizen: can't hurt anybody unless ... Read More
Is residency required to open account by slowmover
I know that I will be trying for residency. During the process can I open an account with out the residency card? Does anyone know if the bank in Miami will open an account that money can be drawn out of in Quito. Any info on this will be ...
True about ISD (Impuesto de Salida de Divisas) of 5% on any amount leaving the country, pretty annoying to say the least. Bringing money in is not a problem, taking it out will cost you. I'd question the need to have an account in Ecuador. You can ... Read More
Is residency required to open account by slowmover
I know that I will be trying for residency. During the process can I open an account with out the residency card? Does anyone know if the bank in Miami will open an account that money can be drawn out of in Quito. Any info on this will be ...
Legally they can, I know for sure that Banco Pichincha Ecuador, Panama and Miami, all opened accounts in the recent past with only a passport. However, if you don't know anybody, most likely they'll brush you off. If that happens, try Banco ... Read More
Buying a (used?) car in Ecuador by unruffled
I guess this question is already here somewhere, but I've looked and can't find anything on it. What to expats usually do about getting a car? Or do they? Or do they find some way to get theirs shipped in? I have an older but excellent condition ...
You cannot bring any used car with you, unless you are an Ecuadorian and stayed abroad for over a year. If the car is titled, the customs here won't let it pass (it better have cert of origin). It must be obviously of 0 mileage or close. And, as ... Read More
Contacting over the Internet people and firms in the USA by unruffled
Are there any problems on the Internet in Cuenca reaching relatives or businesses back here in the US? Can I for instance easily send and receive e-mails to my sister in Texas? Suppose I want quickly to buy or sell a stock through my US broker; ...
You can use Google voice anywhere, but to sign up you'll need a US phone where Google calls for confirmation. After that it works anywhere, and you get to keep your free number. Read More
Contacting over the Internet people and firms in the USA by unruffled
Are there any problems on the Internet in Cuenca reaching relatives or businesses back here in the US? Can I for instance easily send and receive e-mails to my sister in Texas? Suppose I want quickly to buy or sell a stock through my US broker; ...
For calls, I haven't found anything better than Google voice that gives you a free US number and free calls to US and Canada - unbeatable. Excellent quality too. Read More
Buying a (used?) car in Ecuador by unruffled
I guess this question is already here somewhere, but I've looked and can't find anything on it. What to expats usually do about getting a car? Or do they? Or do they find some way to get theirs shipped in? I have an older but excellent condition ...
The difference in car prices in Latin America is very relative: all will even out on a long enough run, say 2-4 years. For example: cars in Panama, Peru, Argentina are a little cheaper (but not much), however gas in Ecuador is 3 times cheaper. I ... Read More
Seeking Great Gym w/full service in Quito or Cuenca by GeoWalther
My wife REQUIRES a world-class gym before we move to Ecuador. Do you know one? Lots of classes (hopefully including yoga), extensive and well-maintaned equipment, social interaction. She will be there for hours every single day, so it's really ...
Some real first world gyms in Quito: Physique in the Plaza de las Americas and Swiss Hotel Gym and Spa. Expect to pay $120+ monthly fee in either. Read More
Crime Story by Nards Barley
What I find odd about this story is I didn't see it in the El Mercurio or the El Tiempo newspapers, and I usually at least scan them each day. Maybe they don't want to spook tourists. [quote]On July 16th, 2012, a female U.S. expatriate living in ...
Here is another Ecuadorian crime story happened about a year ago, I'm sure it'll be useful for newcomers. A friend of mine, an american expat, confronted 2 thieves on the first floor of his North Quito house at noon. One of them fled. He managed to ... Read More
Crime Story by Nards Barley
What I find odd about this story is I didn't see it in the El Mercurio or the El Tiempo newspapers, and I usually at least scan them each day. Maybe they don't want to spook tourists. [quote]On July 16th, 2012, a female U.S. expatriate living in ...
Well, believe my 6 years of living and working here (my work is somehow connected to the subject), there is NO place in Ecuador where a woman can walk alone safely. In Quito, for instance, people get assaulted in Quito Tennis, in Condado etc. ... Read More
renting with dogs
Unless it is a house with some open space, I don't think anybody anywhere in the world would welcome renters with dog(s)(with very rare exceptions)... would you? I would not. Anyway, I rented once in Quito with a small dog, but I treated my landlord ... Read More
Think of moving! by Sandy Scott
Tile says it. What is it like living in the town of Salines?
salinasgirl, very good information, except for casino, which you probably don´t have anymore... Read More
English Teaching Positions by meghan9790
Hi! Im thinking of moving to Quito in December in order to look for a job teaching English. I currently live in Argentina and speak fluent spanish, but i am from the US. Does anyone have any idea of how much I can expect to make and how much you ...
Now, just to set the facts straight, I made some inquiries. Here we go... To work in some reputable colegios like the ones mentioned, you MUST have a relevant education (a "titulo" as they call it here). If you don't have it, you work there ... Read More
English Teaching Positions by meghan9790
Hi! Im thinking of moving to Quito in December in order to look for a job teaching English. I currently live in Argentina and speak fluent spanish, but i am from the US. Does anyone have any idea of how much I can expect to make and how much you ...
No offense, you had good intentions, I understand. Read More
English Teaching Positions by meghan9790
Hi! Im thinking of moving to Quito in December in order to look for a job teaching English. I currently live in Argentina and speak fluent spanish, but i am from the US. Does anyone have any idea of how much I can expect to make and how much you ...
look, amyf, do NOT misinform people. They will come here with hopes for $2000 per month jobs. $2000 per month in Ecuador is an equivalent to, let's say, 150K job in US. Are there 150K jobs in US? Yes. Can you get one? Most - no. Are there $2000 per ... Read More
Shipping company to Miami
There is nothing to see at your "shipping partner", but thanks anyway. Read More
Shipping company to Miami
Thanks, Vinny. Just noticed, quiet a trip you had: Mexico, Chile, Spain, now Ecuador. Read More
Shipping company to Miami
Anybody can recommend a company that can ship a 20'/40' container back to Miami? Appreciate it. Read More
Ecuador vs. Panama
If you think about coming to Ecuador and look for work: FORGET ABOUT IT, even if you are the one who just discovered Higgs Boson: FORGET IT. They will look at your resume, "wow" here and there, and then shamelessly offer you a $500 per month ... Read More
Hostals or inns in Quito by Arizonacactus
My husband and I are looking for a quiet and inexpensive place to stay for a few days in Quito. We want a place appropriate for mature adults. Any suggestions? Travelling in october.
I believe you they are nice, but... no taxi for any distance in Quito costs $16. From where you were staying with a taximeter on, maximum $4. Read More
English Teaching Positions by meghan9790
Hi! Im thinking of moving to Quito in December in order to look for a job teaching English. I currently live in Argentina and speak fluent spanish, but i am from the US. Does anyone have any idea of how much I can expect to make and how much you ...
You are looking at $2-4 per hour and most likely part-time, this rate even full time would be barely enough for month living. The market is overwhelmed: every native speaker is looking to be a "teacher", its like trying to get a job teaching Spanish ... Read More
Advice if taking the boat to Uruguay from BA
I noticed from Buquebus webside: that there are 2 types of boats, I can't recall the times but one is much faster than another. Same annoyances apply? Also a flight to Montevideo is only $40US more, might worth it. So, Montevideo, is it worth a ... Read More
American in Salta by gjd
Greetings, All, I'm an American living in Salta, Argentina. I've been an expat for a couple of years and would not trade the experience for anything. We all know life's a journey and to have the opportunity to experience so many new things is a ...
Thanks a lot. Let me think about something else to ask. I'll pm you if anything. Read More
American in Salta by gjd
Greetings, All, I'm an American living in Salta, Argentina. I've been an expat for a couple of years and would not trade the experience for anything. We all know life's a journey and to have the opportunity to experience so many new things is a ...
Thanks for responding so quickly. Judging by the pics, Salta and its surroundings remind me of our South-West, beautiful. Inflation... as long as you're paid in USD, the local paper can inflate all it wants, unless I'm missing something... What ... Read More
American in Salta by gjd
Greetings, All, I'm an American living in Salta, Argentina. I've been an expat for a couple of years and would not trade the experience for anything. We all know life's a journey and to have the opportunity to experience so many new things is a ...
Hey, gjd, Can I ask, why you chose Salta? I'm very close to moving to ARG myself. I work on internet, so can basically go anywhere... Is Internet fast and reliable in Salta? Thanks in advance. Read More
Real Estate Companies listing same property at difference prices by Nards Barley
I have browsing been Cuenca property listings for a few weeks now and have noticed that the same apartment(judging by the photos) will be often be listed at higher price on certain websites. Also, I have noticed that certain websites will provide ...
Also, a good idea would be to get rid of that gringo look and speak perfect Spanish, but that´s impossible, isn´t it? I usually send my girlfriend to do this kind of shopping, and when the numbers are spoken, show myself. I just looove the surprise ... Read More
Applying for working visa from Buenos Aires by Winners World Travel
Hi there, Does any one know what the requirements are to get a working visa after arriving in Bs As? Does any one know how long it takes if you have all the requirements handed in with the application? I have heard a police check and medical ...
Did you look at the immigration website: http://www.migraciones.gov.ar/accesible/?nomercosur_temporaria You can switch language to English. Read More
Driving license in Ecuador by Armand
Hi all, Can a foreigner take the driving test in Ecuador? What are the formalities to get a driverÂ’s licence in Ecuador? Do you need special or extra documents being an expatriate? How much does it cost? Thank you for participating ...
I don't know if its new. I did it about 2.5 years ago. Never went to a driving school. I just bought the written test info booklet, and took the written. No driving test. At least that was my experience. I cannot vouch for what it is like now, ... Read More
Driving license in Ecuador by Armand
Hi all, Can a foreigner take the driving test in Ecuador? What are the formalities to get a driverÂ’s licence in Ecuador? Do you need special or extra documents being an expatriate? How much does it cost? Thank you for participating ...
If you obtain an International Drivers License before you come down, which you can do for about $15 I believe at any AAA office, you do not have to take the driving test. Only the written exam. ReneThis is probably something new. You just go ... Read More
Health Insurance by kathyaa
I recently read that a legal resident in Ecuador is eligible for the national health care program. Is this correct - can we really be covered under the national health plan merely by obtaining resident visas? This is an important question as we ...
My 2 cents: when I came here 6 years ago, I got an insurance from the best hospital (Hospital Metropolitano) in Quito, which ran about $45 per month (I was 36 years old). But then again, it is accepted directly only at Hospital Metropolitano. They ... Read More
Car Rentals for Seeing the Coastal Areas
I understand, exploring does not mean off-roading, still, anywhere you go, there will be some parts or most parts of the highways that are damaged/not finished, so, remember, get something with alloy wheels!!! Of course, you should get a deal with ... Read More
Car Rentals for Seeing the Coastal Areas
Car renting in Ecuador works a little different from the first world. For the exploring, you´d probably better off with SUV or pick up truck with alloy rims!!! coz the sheet metal ones will be damaged (bent). It will cost you at least $65 per day ... Read More
Driving license in Ecuador by Armand
Hi all, Can a foreigner take the driving test in Ecuador? What are the formalities to get a driverÂ’s licence in Ecuador? Do you need special or extra documents being an expatriate? How much does it cost? Thank you for participating ...
I doubt it and have never seen that someone got a licence here with a passport. The licence number is tied to your cedula (national ID) number. Once you get some kind of permanent status here, you can get a cedula, and, eventually a licence. There ... Read More
Health Insurance by kathyaa
I recently read that a legal resident in Ecuador is eligible for the national health care program. Is this correct - can we really be covered under the national health plan merely by obtaining resident visas? This is an important question as we ...
NO, unless you work here!!! Then, your employer (and you partially) pay "seguro social" and in most cases in 12 payments you are fully covered. If you don't pay "seguro social" the only medical help you'll get will be for cash payment. There is NO ... Read More
Buying an apartment verses renting in Buenos Aires by Winners World Travel
Hi, I am Rita moving to Buenos Aires in a few months time. I am so excited about living there for a while to learn and see the whole country I fell in love with Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls back in October 2011. I prefer to buy a one bedroom ...
Thanks, Gaston! So, how much is out of pocket, if you rent long term (12 months or more) from the owner? Is it 1 month rent + 1 month security dep.? And while we're at it, how long it takes to connect an Internet? Appreciate it. Cheers. Read More
Banking in ARG by 3lckr
This is a very a very peculiar subject: very important, no recent info on the net and anyone who lived in ARG for a month or so can provide the info. Here we go: - how easy is to open a bank account? in pesos or USD? which bank is the ...
No, mate... Venezuela? thanks, but no... have you been there?? Cheap gas and chicks, other than that nothing good's going on there. Cristina actually was just speaking for deposits in pesos as far as I saw it... I don't know why would she be such a ... Read More
Buying an apartment verses renting in Buenos Aires by Winners World Travel
Hi, I am Rita moving to Buenos Aires in a few months time. I am so excited about living there for a while to learn and see the whole country I fell in love with Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls back in October 2011. I prefer to buy a one bedroom ...
Hi, everyone. I wanted to know how the renting system works in ARG: if you rent from the owner, how many months for security deposit, if through the agency, what is their fee. In general, is it difficult, easy? Thanks! Read More
Internet in ARG
I work on Internet, so as soon as I move to ARG, I´ll need a fast line, installed quickly. Now, question is: - how quickly can it be installed? - do you need a DNI to do it, or some docs from migraciones? - what is the best overall provider in BA, ... Read More
Banking in ARG by 3lckr
This is a very a very peculiar subject: very important, no recent info on the net and anyone who lived in ARG for a month or so can provide the info. Here we go: - how easy is to open a bank account? in pesos or USD? which bank is the ...
very helpful, thank you! i´ll get dni, i was born in ecuador, dni for us is easy... damn it :o, am i going to move to another socialist spot? cheers Read More
Ecuador Travel.... Please.... I Really Need Your Help... by ecuadorgeorge
Can you help me? The flight is booked already. Two beautiful weeks in Ecuador. Not my first visit to Ecuador but the last time we stayed in Cuenca for three weeks... We fly into Quito and have accommodations at a fantastic 5000 square foot 18th ...
Agree, bahìa is my fav... i´m going to miss it... Read More
2% tax on CD's interest rates ?
No, I've had CD's in big banks: Pichincha, Pacifico etc., only each kept under 20K for safety. Read More
Banking in ARG
This is a very a very peculiar subject: very important, no recent info on the net and anyone who lived in ARG for a month or so can provide the info. Here we go: - how easy is to open a bank account? in pesos or USD? which bank is the ... Read More
Mendoza
I'll be heading to Mendoza myself, but later on this year. Please input your experiences, especially on long term lodging and banking as this info is hard to come up with on the net. Appreciate in advance. Read More
2% tax on CD's interest rates ?
Nope, my CD's matured and I was given a choice of withdrawal or renewal, some I withdrew, no other charges occurred. I'd stay away from cooperativas, maybe they give you a little higher rate, but for me they all have a face of that "friendly" ... Read More
Warmest coastal weather all year round to live?
Bahia de Caraquez, hands down... they keep building condos all over there. prices around $1000-$1200 sq meter, so my guess for 2/2 condo 100K. Search on the Internet. or even better, come and see Bahia for yourself. Read More
Panama vs Ecuador by katheryn
Hi...I am new to this forum and looking for some insight. My husband and I are planning on a move in the next year or so and are very interested in both Panama and Ecuador. I am finding it difficult to narrow down which of the two places would be ...
It is not safe in a US sense... no serious criminals, but a bum with a kitchen knife can front you anywhere, but same is almost anywhere in 3rd wordl... a condo with a doorman: my personal preference. In nice areas in Panama City it felt more ... Read More
Panama vs Ecuador by katheryn
Hi...I am new to this forum and looking for some insight. My husband and I are planning on a move in the next year or so and are very interested in both Panama and Ecuador. I am finding it difficult to narrow down which of the two places would be ...
Agree with tmac... besides, Panama is more expensive to settle and to live. Read More
Cost of living in Ecuador by expat.com
Hi everybody, It would be very useful to talk about the cost of living in Ecuador. Don't forget to mention where in Ecuador you are living. How much does it cost to live in Ecuador? > accommodation prices > public transportation fares (tube, ...
That's quiet a BUDGET you have there, Mehrlyn... you can live in US or Canada (I'm sure) for a budget like this. But, you mentioned it is all through work, so it is not your money mostly... Anyhow, I'm going to comment just to unscare people. To ... Read More
Can someone explain "municiple value" of property? by Eddie54
I'm perfectly willing to slap down $25,000 or over for a home, but I'm told that if it doesn't have a municiple value of $25,000 I'm wasting my time and won't get the resident visa. Can someone explain please? Thanks.
Absolutely, 100% agree with you here!!! Although it will raise some angry voices from low-middle expat class, I personally, have not found anything suitable for living for less than 65K. No offense, minimalists. Properties in the urban areas are ... Read More
Banks?
it is not easy, as non of the major US banks have branches here. My suggestion: open an account in Banco Pichincha Miami (there is a branch in Quito, 6 de Diciembre y Portugal), they require 5000 to open and maintain on the account. After it is ... Read More
Can someone explain "municiple value" of property? by Eddie54
I'm perfectly willing to slap down $25,000 or over for a home, but I'm told that if it doesn't have a municiple value of $25,000 I'm wasting my time and won't get the resident visa. Can someone explain please? Thanks.
let me just say that you have to buy something for at least 60k to get into 25k municipal value braket. Market prices are about 3 times higher than the municipal values... don't ask why. Read More
smallish towns to live in on the coast by judyanna
Hello everyone! I will be retiring to Ecuador within the next five years. I would appreciate any and all advise on smallish towns to live in on the coast. I have always been a beach girl. Do not want to live in a large city, something on the small ...
Check out Bahìa de Caraquez - my favorite so far Read More
Gyms and fitness
Tell you about Quito. There are gyms from $10 per month (that don't have showers, with old machines and weights) up to $80-100 per month (Swiss Hotel) and $140 per month Plaza de las Americas (that are up to first world standards). My personal ... Read More
Public transportation in Guayaquil by Armand
Hi all, What do you think about the means of transportation in Guayaquil ? Is the network of means of transportation well developed? What modes of transport are available? Do you use them? How much is a fare? Are they relatively ...
Hi Mango7, Could you explain why they're terrible? I use the buses in Quito all the time, and I would like to go to Guayaquil in the future. What's different about the buses there?Sure, here we go... First, the buses are of the older type, ... Read More
Is the Postal service reliable?
The postal service is much less reliable than in the first world. Almost any important correspondence (bank statements etc) is moved by couriers, local(Servientrega) and international (Fedex, DHL). I send sometimes letters to US by local post, all ... Read More
Public transportation in Guayaquil by Armand
Hi all, What do you think about the means of transportation in Guayaquil ? Is the network of means of transportation well developed? What modes of transport are available? Do you use them? How much is a fare? Are they relatively ...
Public buses in Guayaquil are absolutely terrible. No comparison to Quito. If you plan to live in Guayaquil, you'll need a car or around $300 per month on taxies. Read More
BRINGING A VEHICLE by shellyr
Hi, does anyone have a personal experience in bringing a vehicle into Ecuador from the US I keep hearing many different stories and would love to know the real scoop. Thanks.
As it was mentioned: no way. You can go ahead and import a brand new one (0 mileage), but after paying all the taxes it'll cost you almost the same as buying here. Hybrids and electric cars here have no or small import tax. Good luck. Read More
Banking
Regular US checks for sure, takes them a couple of weeks to cash them though. Read More
Private pilots and planes by cecebill
My wife and I will be moving to Salinas and I was wondering if there are any expats that have a small plane in Ecuador? what are the regulations and how is the availability of airfields for private planes in Ecuador? Thanks for any input..Bill (part ...
I was thinking about bringing a plane here, but until now it stayed in Florida. Few things to consider: there is no free flying in Ecuador, every(!) flight must have an approved flight plan, which takes a few hours to approve, but still... It is not ... Read More
Cellphone for Three Weeks?
There is a cell phone rental place in the terminal, however, they'll probably "rob" you (I mean prices). Here is what you do: right in front of the airport, there is a small shopping center called CC Aeropuerto. There are some electronic stores that ... Read More
Banks?
There are no traditional american banks in Ecuador. Tell me what do you need to be doing, maybe I can advise. Read More
How Safe is it ? by josectech
Hi, I'm from U.S.just like to know how safe is Ecuador?
Search the forum for security posts. Read More
Blending in .
Judging by the pic, you can pass for a latino. Then, you'll pick up a few local habits, dress like the crowd and you'll be all right. Your accent though... will be giving you up forever. Good luck. Read More
banking in Ecuador by jillnsy
I have just joined your forum in hopes to get some real answers from real people who feel the same way we do. We are retiring to Ecuador in June 2012 most likely on the ocean (Crucita)or a little south of Manta.We live in Ontario Canada right now. ...
Everything said here is correct, I'm just going to share my experience with banks here. Open a savings account in Banco Pichincha and look no further, a number of branches and the efficiency of its employees surpass any other bank. They give you a ... Read More
Getting Mail / Packages in Ecuador
The mail in Ecuador is pretty much the opposite from the USPS. Nothing gets delivered by mail here, but rather by nationwide couriers like Servientrega. International mail takes forever. A letter to US - about 10 days. Even longer if it is Ecuador ... Read More
60ish single female by getting there
Hi what sort of advice would you give a 60 ish single woman moving to Equador? I am thinking of Cuenca but would there be a better place to go?
What is "Cuechina"?? $1500 per month is exaggerated no matter how you look at it. You can live in Florida for $1500 per month. If you go wild you can as well spend $3000 per month here. Read More
Confused by Visa process by MissDenver
I called an Ecuadorian embassy in the U.S. to find out about a resident visa. They said I had to appear in person but I thought I read somewhere that you could do it by mail (I don't live near an embassy). I was confused even after my phone call. ...
I heard that you cannot adjust your status here if enter on 3 month tourist visa (stamp) anymore. You have to ask for 6 month visa at home. Investment visa is simple and straightforward. You don't even need a "lawyer" here, all he/she will do is ... Read More
Dental implants? by njcarpenter
We just returned from Quito and my wife had her regularly scheduled 6mo dental appt yesterday....and bad news. Has anyone had dental implants done in Ecuador? Happy with the price and results? My wife was quoted $10,000 for 2 dental implants ...
You sound like a commercial, dude. Could be all right place, regardless... Read More