user159
English expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
165
About me
English
Lives in ecuador
Registration: 11 March 2019
I have a double citizenship by Rtt1976
I’m planing to move to Ecuador. Can I bring a car and if so in what value and engine type. Also can I ship a classic car if so how do I find the value.
I’m planing to move to Ecuador. Can I bring a car -@Rtt1976Simple answer, no (although some wiggle room, but unless you are Ecuadorian doesn't apply to and if so in what value and engine type. Also can I ship a classic car if so ... Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia? by Mr. Barley
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others.
what exact medication and quantity? Read More
Home invasions in Vilcabamba: The U.S. State Department takes notice by cccmedia
Following the latest home invasion in Vilcabamba --which claimed the life of a Colorado native namedFrancesca Williams and left two other adults in herhousehold injured -- the U.S. Consulate of Ecuadorhas guidance for other Expats.The Consulate has ...
And this is why you need to be prepared to defend yourself with deadly force. While linking arms and singing kumbaya is nice, the only thing that will prevent you from becoming a victim of violent attacks like these is having a firearm and knowing ... Read More
Obtaining Ecuadorian citizenship through marriage abroad (in Europe) by Neanderthal
Hello,The facts:1. I am married to a Ecuadorian2. Married in The Netherlands3. Marriage is registered in the Ecuadorian 'Civil Registry' by the Ecuadorian embassy in The Netherlands.4. We DO NOT live in EcuadorI want to obtain the Ecuadorian ...
Not sure if things are different for nationality through spouse or what nationalisation process coxhere1 was going for, but I didn't need any language test to get my citizenship, although it was 10+ years ago so things maybe have changed.From what I ... Read More
South African Parent Looking to Relocate to Cuenca by Fox21
As a South African considering a move to Cuenca, Ecuador, I am curious about the experiences of other expats in raising children in Cuenca.I would like to hear from other expat parents about their personal experiences, both positive and negative, ...
I've got 3 kids here, from 6 to 14. 2 born here, one abroad.How old are your kids?Have you been to ecuador before?Have you been to cuenca before?What will do you for education? Read More
Any flights from Guayaquil to Salinas by Evesdrop
Hello, all!My sister and I are planning travel to Punta Blanca next year.We will be arriving into Guayaquil airport and were wondering if there are any regional flights between Guayaquil and Salinas, or anywhere close to Punta Blanca.We prefer not ...
Just a warning, you will be spending most of the day in the municipio.No car hire places like you are used to. You may find someone who hires out there car. But honestly, just pay for taxis, or hire a driver for the day, it will be cheaper and less ... Read More
Trouble On the Coast and Mafia Carnage by cccmedia
Off-shore and airstrip drug activity along the Ecuador Coast is so bad in Manabí Province that radar may be installed shortly on private property.By presidential decree, property owners in parts of the province will be subject to the ...
Although it is true a lot of drug and violent events happen around Manabi and Esmeraldas, I'd like to express the fact that everyday life activities continue, and, as long as one avoids dangerous areas, don't get involved with unknown activities, ... Read More
Trouble On the Coast and Mafia Carnage by cccmedia
Off-shore and airstrip drug activity along the Ecuador Coast is so bad in Manabí Province that radar may be installed shortly on private property.By presidential decree, property owners in parts of the province will be subject to the ...
@Jeff_Angiee I wasn't aware of a murder of a politician in Salinas. I mentioned Salinas as being less a target of the drug cartels because of its location, due west of Guayaquil. There is a direct highway linking Guayaquil and Manta with ... Read More
Loja vs Cuenca by hughespmichael6289
I spent two months in Loja, a month in Vilcabamba and now am in Cuenca. The three places all have attractions but Loja impresses me most. I'm about to start the professional visa process. I would like to hear the cons of retiring in Loja or a ...
Loja is smaller and less expats but better weather than cuenca IMO.If you want to be part of an ex pat community and / or don't speak spanish, then maybe cuenca is better tbh Read More
We are looking at Cuenca, however open to other options by Kyle Macleod
Hello Everyone, I am from South Africa, and looking to immigrate to Ecuador within the next few months. It is myself (28), My partner(28), Our Daughter(5 Months) and son (6). I am a Software Developer and My partner is a Freelance Writer. ...
private schools $300+ will be alright but probably all spanish speaking (maybe some lessons in english). For English speaking schools, I am only aware of options in the $1000 plus range.However, it is advised to at least visit the country before ... Read More
Building materials/home construction on the EC coast by suefrankdahl
We have a new member, Terrazzo Guy, who is requesting info about building materials as he is planning to build a house on the coast. I hope that he will be able to get some feed back here from those with experience and knowledge on the subject
Neither Sue nor Terrazzo have posted since 2015, would not expect a reply. -@mugteckit's been 7 years. 80% chance they probably don't live in Ecuador any more tbh Read More
A Threat at 'Mi Domicilio' by cccmedia
Years ago, I was mugged or robbed on Loja Street and in Parque la Carolina. Tonight, however, was the first time in Ecuador that anyone ever threatened me or my property while inside my condo complex.The threat came from Melba*, a middle-aged ...
Not entirely unusual for people to do work for you, unrequested then ask for payment, or a contribution. By the definition it's a con, but...People washing your car whilst it's parked. Yes it was filthy, but I have an 1hour drive home through the ... Read More
medications by traveler76
has Ecuador Government removed penalties for buying opioids and taken away the sigma of buying because of chronic pain? It would be nice to live somewhere that I could retire too and be treated properly. thanks
I have occasional need for prescription medications to help with occasional insomnia. My experience in Guayaquil has been simple.I walk down to our neighborhood doctor. His office is attached to his home. My first visit, i explained that my doc ... Read More
medications by traveler76
has Ecuador Government removed penalties for buying opioids and taken away the sigma of buying because of chronic pain? It would be nice to live somewhere that I could retire too and be treated properly. thanks
@user159 So if you have prescriptions when you expat in your country be they opioids or say, biological for autoimmune conditions. Will you face difficulty in obtaining your meds? . If one has a chronic illness and takes medication- then it ... Read More
medications by traveler76
has Ecuador Government removed penalties for buying opioids and taken away the sigma of buying because of chronic pain? It would be nice to live somewhere that I could retire too and be treated properly. thanks
has Ecuador Government removed penalties for buying opioids NoIt would be nice to live somewhere that I could retire too and be treated properly. you'll be treated properly. Just don't expect opiods to be prescribed in anyway near north American ... Read More
What to Bring to Ecuador by cccmedia
Are you coming to Ecuador to live .. or for an extended stay?Mr. Second Passport has just posted a video to help you avoid scarcity-problems and high prices compared to the USA.What to bring...1. shoes, including Nike-quality athletic ...
If such things are so important to a person, I would suggest Ecuador is the country for them in all honesty :-\ Read More
Trouble On the Coast and Mafia Carnage by cccmedia
Off-shore and airstrip drug activity along the Ecuador Coast is so bad in Manabí Province that radar may be installed shortly on private property.By presidential decree, property owners in parts of the province will be subject to the ...
No noticed any more road stops and I drive the coast road all the time. Did see a small aeroplane flying very low heading to Ayangue whilst on the way to Salinas one morning though... Read More
Methadone availability in Ecuador by kris11rich
I'm an American looking to live in equador. I am a methadone patient. Are there methadone clinics in Ecuador?
Very unlikely. Opiates are hardly ever prescribed and heroin although seen in the bigger cities from time to time, isn't really a thing. From speaking with friends with family members with drug addiction rehabilitation isn't really a thing ... Read More
Worker Protests by cccmedia
Major labor unions announced at a news conference today that they will go to the streets of Ecuador's major cities in a national day of protest next Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at 4 p.m. A list of the organizations participating is available at ...
In a large city such as Quito, workers demonstrations at large parks or near Plaza de la Independencia can get rowdy. Young demonstrators in groups may run past an onlooking Expat at breakneck speed. Police lines may get pushed. While Expats have ... Read More
Worker Protests by cccmedia
Major labor unions announced at a news conference today that they will go to the streets of Ecuador's major cities in a national day of protest next Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at 4 p.m. A list of the organizations participating is available at ...
I expect much more of this in the near future, especially as more of Lassos policies come into effect (even assuming he is 100% correct in their end result, will cause more suffering in the short term) No idea what the solution is, the country is ... Read More
Cautionary Tales: Shipping Products into Ecuador by cccmedia
On July 15th I arranged for my new U.S.-to-Ecuador shipping company, MyUS, to consolidate three packages and send them to me in one box to Quito. MyUS had been promoting its ability to save money for customers by doing this kind of ...
Previously we had no issue with DHL, it came through quickly, no issues with customs, and got delivered to our door by servientrega for about $10 extra fee. Last two times have been a nightmare, DHL lost a package and couldn't find it. Another ... Read More
covid travel requirements by Jerry Straka
i have the pfizer vaccine (feb/march). do i still need a RT-PCR test, in addition, to gain entry in ecuador? or does the vaccine card/confirmation suffice. i seem to be getting confusing info...
input much appreciated. my reading is that vaccine proof is enough. another check with United (airline) seems to confirm. my voluminous sources are probably the source of my confusion. thanksAre you a tourist? resident? citizen? It might make a ... Read More
Deep Discounts For Seniors Living in Ecuador by cccmedia
Presidente Lasso has signed an executive order to give seniors in Ecuador discounts of up to 50 percent off the cost of Internet plans. Mobile-phone plans will be similarly discounted, by order of 'el presidente'. Five gigabytes of ...
applicable to citizens only? or residents as well Read More
Good things in Ecuador that are unique to Ecuador (or Latin America) by ssocha
I intend this to be a fun question, and invite you to play with it. More a subject of interest, rather than information-seeking. What I mean by "unique to Ecuador or Latin America" is that [u]it was a new thing to you[/u] after you ...
Fast forward to last week, when I came across bottled guayusa tea at my local store of the Mi Comisariato chain here in Centro Histórico. The 'Guayuse tea', as the name appears on the label, is delicious -- sweet but not too sweet. So ... Read More
Food in Ecuador healthy? But is it really? by lizzaritimonohi2
My #1 reason for considering Ecuador is due to many, many posts on various forums where folks talk about healthy living, "organic" food and abundance of "clean, healthy produce" and how "fertile Ecuador soil" is. And I ...
I live several kms outside Vilcabmba on a finca, and grow many organic kinds of food. Many many people here eat organic and it is cheap. You should know this about Ecuador. However, I do not go to the big city Loja , tothe Supermaxi, expecting ... Read More
Food in Ecuador healthy? But is it really? by lizzaritimonohi2
My #1 reason for considering Ecuador is due to many, many posts on various forums where folks talk about healthy living, "organic" food and abundance of "clean, healthy produce" and how "fertile Ecuador soil" is. And I ...
I happen to agree that neither hype nor statistics tell the story. The farming epicenter of Ecuador is probably Vilcabamba. There are some wise and informed growers there. It could be an eye-opening trip for the OP of this thread. cccmedia in ... Read More
Food in Ecuador healthy? But is it really? by lizzaritimonohi2
My #1 reason for considering Ecuador is due to many, many posts on various forums where folks talk about healthy living, "organic" food and abundance of "clean, healthy produce" and how "fertile Ecuador soil" is. And I ...
My #1 reason for considering Ecuador is due to many, many posts on various forums where folks talk about healthy living, "organic" food and abundance of "clean, healthy produce" and how "fertile Ecuador soil"that is ... Read More
Importing a Home on Wheels? by stepgirl38
Hello. I have been traveling Central and South America for the last 12 years in a 1979 35-foot converted school bus. Diesel engine converted to run on Waste Veggie Oil. Does anyone have any experience/knowledge about importing such a vehicle? The ...
Absolutely not allowed. You may find someone offering to sort out fake papers for $$$$ but 9/10 it's a scam. IF you want to permanently take the bus off the road, that I have no idea. But as for importing your vehicle, there is no legal way to ... Read More
Where the Heck Is Everybody? by cccmedia
Coming back to Quito and Ecuador after an extended U.S. visit, I find it spooky how some big places no longer are attracting people. The upscale Patio Andaluz hotel near the presidential palace here in Centro Histórico used to have some ...
Coast is roughly the same. Masks worn, temperature checks going into supermarkets / malls / bigger shops. Most places open. Not many people about Read More
Covid in Ecuador by havenacres1999
My husband and I had planned on moving to Ecuador and everything has been delayed due to covid. Living in Canada has become unbearable for us due to the loss of our personal freedoms. We are undergoing censorship now to cap it off. Doctors are not ...
Ecuador is not the libertarian paradise many from the north think it is (for some unknown reason). When covid restrictions were in place here, they would have made the restrictions in Canada look like nothing. Recently just ended a weekend stay at ... Read More
Let's talk guns by BryonDavis
I looked around the forums and really saw nothing on the subject. My wife and I have carried concealed (with various licenses) for two decades. With all of the talk about armed robberies by gun and knifepoint, home invasions, burglaries, etc., I ...
Consider the news is showing 5 dead due to a gun fight in prison, I would say the one place that is where you do need a gun. Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
There was no leaving the home for any non-emergency. No exercising, no walking the dogs. They are not *** around Read More
Climate comparison Vilcabamba vs Quinara vs Yangana by excelsis0707
Hello everyone, My wife and I intend to move to Ecuador in the next year and we are looking for a 2.5-3 hectare minimum cultivation land, which is not too expensive, outside the cities of Loja or Vilcabamba. I have already read several posts and ...
Also consider Catamayo, it is lower than the 3 and warmer. It's in a dry valley that looks more desert like than the Vilca valley, but is only 40mins away. Catamayo is a city, well a town really, but some villages around it. 0 foreigners ... Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
I am seeing things getting worse here in the foreigner community. About 50% take precautions, the other 50% probably thinking lighting a candle and doing yoga will stop them getting Covid. Also hearing from family in Guayaquil, things are bad bad ... Read More
Ecuador Coastal Towns and Cities by jwhalen55
Happy New Year all, You all have been helpful on my previous forum topic on moving to Ecuador but now have some additional questions on the coast in general as compared to the mountain cities (Quito/Cuenca). Bear in mind that my wife has arthritus ...
Ecuador give visas on arrival to nearly all countries, you'd have to check if Lliberia is on that list, it might be. If not, then you'd have to apply for a visa, whether that process needs a letter of invitation I don't know. Read More
Climate comparison Vilcabamba vs Quinara vs Yangana by excelsis0707
Hello everyone, My wife and I intend to move to Ecuador in the next year and we are looking for a 2.5-3 hectare minimum cultivation land, which is not too expensive, outside the cities of Loja or Vilcabamba. I have already read several posts and ...
Yes, but Yangana will be colder (a bit, probably more noticable during the night) and Quinara is a bit warmer. But again, depends where in these areas you live: Mountains / valley / village, outskirts. Humidity will be high during rainy season in ... Read More
Climate comparison Vilcabamba vs Quinara vs Yangana by excelsis0707
Hello everyone, My wife and I intend to move to Ecuador in the next year and we are looking for a 2.5-3 hectare minimum cultivation land, which is not too expensive, outside the cities of Loja or Vilcabamba. I have already read several posts and ...
Yangana is the highest of the 3 so colder. Next Vilca and lastly Quinara is the warmest as it is a bit lower and a bit further away from the Podocarpus mountains, so doesn't get the cold clouds rolling down that Vilca gets. Very wrong. ... Read More
Ecuador Coastal Towns and Cities by jwhalen55
Happy New Year all, You all have been helpful on my previous forum topic on moving to Ecuador but now have some additional questions on the coast in general as compared to the mountain cities (Quito/Cuenca). Bear in mind that my wife has arthritus ...
> why some towns in the area have a better likelihood of a good water supply than others. Water either comes from Manglarato (Montanita and south) or Olon(, olon and south). There are no other sources. Olon has the better resource for the people ... Read More
Getting a Motorcycle in Ecuador by jcr000
We are seriously considering retirement in Ecuador. We are planning a scouting trip to Cuenca with the possibility if everything goes well to move before the end of the year. Among other things I would like to keep my passion for riding bikes but ...
My reply was a bit tongue in cheek, and will of course depend where you buy the motorbike (i.e. your experience with chevolet). If you buy from a big international dealership your experience will be better. If you buy a small moto from the shops ... Read More
Hard to find things in Ecuador by russelleaton
Some things I cannot find in Ecuador: English marmite. English Colman’s mustard. Greaseproof (parchment) paper for oven cooking. Shoe horn. Non-aluminium bakeware. Vitamin MK7. Bed sheets that are long enough. Ovaltine.
Marmite you are not getting. Unless someone sends it to you. Likewise colemans mustard, forget it. But you can get "mustard" not the same, but maybe good enough. Unlike marmite of which there is just no option. Greaseproof (parchment) ... Read More
Living abroad and in need of my medicine by dixieman55
I am currently living in Colombia and am going to be taking a month long class to get certified as a teaching English as a forigen language. The medicine that I have been taking since the 1980s is banned in Colombia and I need to leave the country ...
@ccmedia adderall is basically amphetamine. Getting that in Ecuador is going to be very difficult. They most definitely do NOT prescribe it as freely as in north America. There is 0% chance you find it in small towns. The only way will be Quito / ... Read More
Getting a Motorcycle in Ecuador by jcr000
We are seriously considering retirement in Ecuador. We are planning a scouting trip to Cuenca with the possibility if everything goes well to move before the end of the year. Among other things I would like to keep my passion for riding bikes but ...
They will start it up for you after you pay, then when you leave the forecourt, your "guarantee" ends Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
Not sure where you are flying from, or the cost of a ticket, but I would imagine paying the flight ticket for someone to come with you is going to be cheaper than any postal service to Ecuador. No idea how it will be on your home end, but ... Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
There is a 4x4 rule in Ecuador for post. You cannot send more than 4kg, nor more than 4 parcels without incurring a cost. The mule services won't work for that much luggage either, unless I supposed you split it up, but that is going to be very ... Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
Many postal services explicitly say they won't send bank cards IIRC Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
Oh year? What about USPS service Global Express Guarantee which promises delivery to any of 190 countries in one to three days? Guaranteed. What about googling global delivery services for more options? cccmediaI'm not from the US, so maybe ... Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
Oh year? What about USPS service Global Express Guarantee which promises delivery to any of 190 countries in one to three days? Guaranteed. What about googling global delivery services for more options? cccmediaI'm not from the US, so maybe ... Read More
Sending & receiving Packages by 56kathya
I have heard some good and a lot of bad about receiving mail order and simply getting packages delivered in Ecuador. Does anyone have the low down on this?
DHL or nothing. There is no local postal system anymore. DHL may be "reasonable" ish depending on your country. The only other option is the mule services, where you sent to an address (usually Miami) and someone brings it in their ... Read More
Looking to obtain temporary residence by Nvanbelzen
Hi All, Happy new year! my name is Niels, Dutch national, just moved in to Guayaquil earlier this week. I'm looking to obtain temporary residence. Any recommendations for immigration service/lawyer in Guayaquil who can help with the process + ...
you cannot, you will need to take the driving test, cognitive and theory test (unless Ec rules have changed again recently) Read More
Best bank for checking/saving account? by bkiser
Hello, all. I am planning my first trip, and would like to go ahead and start an account with a bank. Would prefer to use a bank that has available ATMs in different locations, if possible, as I plan to do some traveling in country. Also, I ...
Bit of an exaggeration. Ecuador is not a country with a high level of English spoken. Some people will know some, but fluent? That is a tiny tiny proportion. Those that are fluent, most likely did not learn it at school (unless go to a bi-lingual ... Read More
Ecuador Real Estate and rental prices drop dramatically in 2020 by lebowski888
The Real Estate and rental markets are slow and cold in Ecuador. Why? There is an oversupply of houses for sale and the demand is diminished and unstable in Ecuador, according to the newspaper El ...
The tourist coast has always had a glut of houses to rent to live in. Most are converted to rooms for day / weekend rentals as it maximises profit. Although things are better now, 10 to 15 years ago you would be hard pressed to find anything at all ... Read More
Will be moving summer 2021 Oh my - seems like such a task by Jeff_Angie
Greetings to all. For some reason, I am feeling shy just posting this. I am planning to move to Ecuador with bride of 20+ years next summer. We are planning an exploratory trip in February 2020. Intent is to spend 2 weeks traveling up the coast. ...
Post all your questions up, you'll get many answers, some useful, some less some, some correct, some less so :) I would advise to not jump both feet in. Come down for 6 months on a tourist visa, see how it goes. That is enough time for the rose ... Read More
For those who live near Paute ot Cuenca by Jean-Jaques
[b]For those who live near Paute ot Cuenca: [/b] How do you like Paute? I am looking at a house in the Paute hills there that would be perfect for me. I am single, children out of university, and I am 51. I am very independent and fit, and am ...
That's quite a trek and am wondering if I would be too isolated in PauteHave you been? Do you know the area? Anyone there to socialise with? I want peace and quiet as the normfair enough, but how about isolation? No social interaction. Not ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Very good advice. I would say if you expect to duplicate your home country life here, you will be doomed to fail, unless your funds are near unlimited *and* your Spanish is near fluent. Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
That is going to be difficult, especially with no national post office really working. And unless you are able to call them up and deal with them fluently on the phone, your post will not be arriving.Fortunately my wife is Ecuadorian, so I will have ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Are you referring the Ecuador or the US? ;-) Joking aside, the postal service is the least of Ecuador's worries. It's a small, poor, heavily indebted 3rd world country Read More
Does Google Maps work in Ecuador? by bkiser
It just hit me... this is a tool I use for all my traveling, but have never used it outside the US. It's going to be incredibly useful if it works there.
This is very true. There is a random business placed at our house lol Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
Or perhaps they don't want you to go speak to the seller and bypass them Thank you guys. It will be interesting to see, when/if I ever move there, how my address will be decided. Who would I ask? Maybe just ask a neighbor what the address ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
That is going to be difficult, especially with no national post office really working. And unless you are able to call them up and deal with them fluently on the phone, your post will not be arriving. Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
That's what we do. Village > barrio > landmark > description from landmark province country It usually gets here, if not they will call and will give them further description over the phone Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
This is probably going to be the most straight forward way if the office isn't *too* far from you Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
lol. Am not sure why, but I seem to remember being told letters take longer. Don't know why was they aren't searched like packages, but that is what I was told. As this is Ecuador, I didn't question the logic of it, as it sounds like ... Read More
How do addresses work? by bkiser
So I've noticed addresses just aren't shown on real estate listings and I've heard people just don't get mail at their homes. I've also heard expats talk about having a post office box in order to receive mail. I guess I have ...
As to postal service not working, my mother forgot and sent a package of the usual tat she sends to the kids and although is going through the system slowly, it is here and being processed (supposedly). I thought they were not working at all, but ... Read More
Best way for a foreigner to travel? by bkiser
Hello, everyone. I am visiting in December for a couple of weeks. Would like to travel along the coast, from Posorja up to Crucita, maybe even farther north if I have time. What would be the best way to get around?
Depending on the vehicle (obviously) but I think you are very low on that estimate, cannot remember what family paid when they visited and hired a car a few years back, but I remember the old boy moaning about how extortionate it was (compared to ... Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
More regulations now than in 1959 :-) We looked into it and is very much not the case of just find a container ship and book yourself on. Just get on a sailing trip from Panama to Colombia and go to the San Blas. Will be cheaper, quicker and more ... Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
Very very very unlikely this will be possible. Cargo ships do not take passengers Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
159, are you saying you drove your car all the way to Ecuador (and back)? Did you find a boat that accepted your car for the Panama to Colombia leg? cccmediaBoth trips were one way. Shipped vehicle both times in a container. Panama side ... Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
If you are young and dumb and fancy an adventure and don't mind an arduous, uncomfortable nightmare journey in malarial jungles - go for it. Otherwise ccmedia is 100% correct Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
I know there was a ferry briefly for maybe 6months or a year in 2013 ish, then it had issues and stopped. Is there a new ferry, I wasn't aware but haven't looked into it at all in recent years, or perhaps is referencing the old ferry? Read More
Are there no boat to travel from Miami to Ecuador instead of Flying? by monicawatsonleader
I guess either there are none available or I'm not googling this right. The only thing I can think of is to get to Ecuador by boat from Miami since I'm already in Florida. Seaching cruise, sail, boat, travel, to Ecuador has yielded no desired ...
I've driven from the US to Ecuador twice, as ccmedia says the issue is the Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia where the Panamerica stops. Now it IS possible to get to Colombia without flying but it isn't easy. 1) you can take a yacht ... Read More
Anyone near Posorja? by bkiser
I am wondering what the town is like. Anyone got pictures or links to show it off? There is a fairly new housing development called [url=https://www.millavilsa.com/]Millavilsa[/url] that I would like to know more about.
Isn't that where they are building the new deep water port? Further down the road than Playas? I might be confused and thinking of the wrong place though. If it is there, it's not very nice. I wouldn't expect many English speakers ... Read More
Hello from Kentucky, USA! by bkiser
Hello, everyone! I have been a member for probably close to 3 years, but I still feel like a new member, as I don't think I have ever posted before! I have been following Ecuador from afar, in as much detail as possible, over the last 8 or 10 ...
+1 for take your time. Be here for a couple of seasons before jumping in. For example Olon December to May is the high season and the weather is very much not the same June to Decemeber (although this September it has been quite nice and we have ... Read More
Transporting small dog by ship by Mtbcogirl
I’m starting to think about moving to a foreign country to retire. Ecuador and Portugal are at the top of my list. I know that sea transport is possible for my small dog from America to Europe, but I’m unable to find anything on this ...
Just give the dog a shot to calm them, then put them in the hold. They are a dog, they will be fine. Unless you are in Australia the flight time isn't so bad Read More
Cars in Ecuador by davidjb
I am a pretty good Spanish speaker and I plan to move to Sta Elena very close to the Manabi border on land we've bought next to my stepson's. I haven't been able to contact customs (SENAE) directly. The last thread I saw about importing ...
My wife (ecuadorian) was not allowed to bring our vehicle over. It is not as straight forward as ECuadorian = can bring vehicle. I did know an American couple who imported their new pickup truck when moved over. Not sure if they did it strictly by ... Read More
Cars in Ecuador by davidjb
I am a pretty good Spanish speaker and I plan to move to Sta Elena very close to the Manabi border on land we've bought next to my stepson's. I haven't been able to contact customs (SENAE) directly. The last thread I saw about importing ...
If your Spanish is good enough, depends what you mean by "pretty good" (I'm assuming near fluency not "pretty good" to buy some bananas from the local tienda) then call them up and speak to them. Things change all the time ... Read More
Bringing a car to Ecuador by davidjb
I wanted to know if there are any updates about bringing your car to Ecuador as part of your household goods (menaje de casa) and if anyone has recently gone through the process of obtaining a resident visa themselves vs. using channelers, ...
I assume you are not Ecuadorian returning? Age and size of the car are a factor. I know one person who did it 10 years ago, was very expensive and full of headaches. Was a brand new car. We tried (wife is ecaudorian and was returning) and was not ... Read More
How to bring your car to Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Ecuador, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age of ...
I do, too. My Dad did it in 1959, not as a diplomat but as a member of the US Army sent to Quito, Ecuador. He brought in a 1956 Chrysler Windsor Newport, and sold it for a good profit when we left. I'm sure other foreigners did it, too, back ... Read More
How to bring your car to Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Ecuador, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age of ...
Is easy. You turn up at the border, do your passport paperwork, then get your papers for the car which is basically a carpassport and gets the same tourist visa as you. You have to pay for a temp insurance whatever Ecuador is calling it this year, ... Read More
How to bring your car to Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Ecuador, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age of ...
Even then, it is not as simple as that. We tried to do that (ecuadorian (wife) returning from EU), but for reasons I don't remember it wasn't possible. Of course this is Ecuador, so there are hoops, regulations, the person who you currently ... Read More
Loja/Vilcabamba Internet Quality -- Digital Nomads Want to Know by RobinJoel
HI Everyone, My husband and I would like to start a new topic on the Ecuador Forum. We would like to know about the internet connections in the Loja/Vilca areas of Southern Ecuador. How reliable are the companies and connections? Does anyone ...
fibre is now available in Malacatos / Vilcabamba. 80mb connection, $37.50 (currently discounted, I think should be $50 ish). Uploads are blistering fast, 4mb (bytes not bits) and downloads have had maximum of 5.7mb. The uploads are consistent, ... Read More
Exodus from Ecuador-Real or Imaginary by jwhalen55
Hello Fellow Members, I've heard a number of stories on an Exodus of folks from Ecuador of late and I'm sure it relates to the COVID thing and downstream fallout thereof. In any event, I'm trying to get a feeling for the Expat ...
News report I saw yesterday said Bogota mayor wants to reimpose lockdown as cases start to soar again Read More
Growing pecan, walnut, trees and other nut trees by Chjozie
I want to know if it possible to grow pecans, walnuts and other nut trees here on the coast in Canoa, Ecuador.
CASHEW! I don't see why you couldn't grow cashew on the coast. Although I have never seen any, nor the watery fleshy fruit for sale, I don't see why it couldn't. And of course, the best nut of call coco-nut :) Read More
Growing pecan, walnut, trees and other nut trees by Chjozie
I want to know if it possible to grow pecans, walnuts and other nut trees here on the coast in Canoa, Ecuador.
In Canoa? Basically no (for walnut / pecan). There is an Andea walnut tree, but it doesn't grow on the coast, needs to be much higher. You will be able to grow tropical almond (also called indian almond I believe). Probably you have seen it on ... Read More
Moving to Ecuador from US w/ cats by littlelulu200
I am planning to move to Cuenca with my husband and two cats early next year (hopefully!). One of my cats would probably be totally fine in the cabin with me but my other one is horribly skittish of everyone and everything. I'm assuming he would ...
Simpler, yes - but for many people their pets are part of the family. Just as they would not leave their son or daughter, they would not willingly leave their pet(s).Leaving a (child age) son / daughter is not comparable to leaving a cat. Read More
Moving to Ecuador from US w/ cats by littlelulu200
I am planning to move to Cuenca with my husband and two cats early next year (hopefully!). One of my cats would probably be totally fine in the cabin with me but my other one is horribly skittish of everyone and everything. I'm assuming he would ...
Why not just rehome the cats in the US and get some new cats when you get here? Would be much simpler Read More
Online shopping in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Shopping online can be far more convenient and offer greater choice than going into shops, be it grocery shopping or retail. Are there options for online shopping in Ecuador? Which sites or apps do you use most frequently and ...
A lot depends on what you are ordering, from where, from whom, size, weight, contents and value. We have had no problems with the loja office, but you cannot just expect to order things and have them turn up, there are hoops to jump through from ... Read More
Proof of income for Professional Visa by Gelor
I'm getting mixed info on weather or not you need a proof of income for Professional Visa. Correct me if I'm wrong, this is the official info on required for this type of ...
Everything should be translated by official translator and stamped as you say regardless of whether have been told. If told doesn't need an apostille, I'd check that with at least 2 officials and not take the word of one. As you say, things ... Read More
Reporting 10k or more to the customs border in USA and Ecuador by rriiccaarrddoo
So I know you’re supposed to report to the customs border both leaving the United States and entering into Ecuador if you have $10,000 or more in your possession My question is does anyone have any experience with reporting that you have more ...
^ with the caveat this is Ecuador and things may change May 31st Read More
Price of real estate during crisis by Marlo Pollo
Hey amigos, Has anyone noticed land prices sliding at all? I imagine there will be a drop in short and mid term. I am in CO now where the exchange rate gives you30% more pesos because of covid turmoil. Hard to judge here as we’re locked down ...
I don't think (in Ecuador) you will be getting 1/2 price property end of the year. With Ecuador using the dollar, you don't get the exchange rate bump you do (as mentioned above with Colombia) in troubled times. Prices in the expat / ... Read More
Reporting 10k or more to the customs border in USA and Ecuador by rriiccaarrddoo
So I know you’re supposed to report to the customs border both leaving the United States and entering into Ecuador if you have $10,000 or more in your possession My question is does anyone have any experience with reporting that you have more ...
You also need to factor in, that in Ecuador, you need to ask the right question. You can ask the question 9 times and get a no, but ask it slightly differently and the answer becomes a yes. Don't expect people to figure out what you mean, or to ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
Economies of scales. Growth hormone Appalling intensive factory farming conditions Ago-business vs small family run farms Mechanisation vs manual Lack of subsidies Non-existent agro lobby Read More
Reporting 10k or more to the customs border in USA and Ecuador by rriiccaarrddoo
So I know you’re supposed to report to the customs border both leaving the United States and entering into Ecuador if you have $10,000 or more in your possession My question is does anyone have any experience with reporting that you have more ...
Still, I'd rather take the money out from the bank here. Just go to the bank, with your passport and you can take out large sums as required without needing to use the ATM and their tiny withdraw limit. Everyone is until they aren't. ... Read More
Reporting 10k or more to the customs border in USA and Ecuador by rriiccaarrddoo
So I know you’re supposed to report to the customs border both leaving the United States and entering into Ecuador if you have $10,000 or more in your possession My question is does anyone have any experience with reporting that you have more ...
Why are you bringing in large amounts of cash? I certainly would not want to be arriving at Guayaquli airport, a fresh faced, green foreigner with thousands of dollars on me, Apart from that, I cannot help you. I've heard aving the country is ... Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
I'll go for mother nature, weaponised it personally Read More
Professional Visa by Durchinusa
I am quite confused about the nature of professional visa as among the pathways to secure a residency in Ecuador. The law appears to be as simple as it may seem: if an applicant possess the required 4-year degree from an approved institution , ...
lol sounds about right. I remember sorting my citizenship out and needed a print out from some office (police I think), but they refused and accused me of entering the country on multiple occasions with multiple passwords. Confused I asked them why ... Read More
Looking for help - Immigration related !! by sun.surfering
Hello Friends, I'm considering of starting a new life at Ecuador and I need some help/advice on the immigration process. I'm in my early 40s and a working professional. I'm exploring the possibility of starting a new life at Ecuador and ...
I don't recall definitely if it has to be apostilled, but I imagine so. Anything official should be apostilled and an official translation. Better safe than sorry as is much easy to do it whilst you are still in your home country than once here Read More
Looking for help - Immigration related !! by sun.surfering
Hello Friends, I'm considering of starting a new life at Ecuador and I need some help/advice on the immigration process. I'm in my early 40s and a working professional. I'm exploring the possibility of starting a new life at Ecuador and ...
If you plan on getting a driving license, then make sure you have proof of graduation highschool / college / university or another certification related to your career. Otherwise you cedula will me marked education: basic which does not allow you to ... Read More
Adopting a pet in Ecuador by Loïc
Hello, Are you a dog or a cat person? A pet can add life to a home and make an ideal travel companion during your expatriation in Ecuador. However, formalities or regulations might put you off traveling with your pet making adoption a better ...
Adopting a pet is as simple as feeding one of the many many strays who then stay with you because you feed them. Or feeding some puppies / kittens before they are got rid of. Or just finding some in a box by the bins. We've adopted loads, some ... Read More
Home Improvement in Ecuador by vsimple
This thread is for members to share information about anything related to home improvement in Ecuador. Recently, I began inquiring about the cost of aluminum blinds. These are called [i]persianas de aluminio[/i] here. Anyhow, the prices I was given ...
We bought a fridge, mid price range of options - I forget the brand - is silent until it isn't then is like a jet taking off. The bottom veg tray, cracked the first time it was filled with veg and after 4 months, is cracked /split / shattered ... Read More
SUV rental by rriiccaarrddoo
So I can’t seem to find anywhere where I can rent a car in Guayaquil and then drop it off in either Salinas or La Libertad anybody out there can give me some recommendations?
Doesn't exist. Anything that would make your life easier / straight forward just doesn't exist. Expect half the service at twice the cost for most things of this nature ("luxury" services - by luxury, I mean from the perspective ... Read More