Vicente Villafuerte
@vinny66
Spanish expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
479
Contacts
36
About me
Spanish
Lives in Cuenca
Speaks Spanish, English, Catalán an a bit of Italian.
Registration: 14 September 2011
Shipping our stuff over by rriiccaarrddoo
I’m having a hard time getting real answers from different shipping companies. They all have a different answer. We will be shipping 1-40’ container (over sea). Can bring my dewalt battery powered tools? Can I bring 1 atv (four ...
I know is difficult to get clear answers to your questions but is due the Ecuadorian Customs doesn't have clear rules about what you can ship or not and, at the end, the particular inspector who review your belongings is the one who decide what ... 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 ...
Yes, there is a discount on vehicles if you are disabled. You have to get a disabled ID form the Conadis and the Ministery of Health to present it on a dealer. I think this is the only document they ask for. Vicente 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 spent quite a time researching about shipping classic cars to Ecuador because some clients ask about it in the past 2 years and the answer is NO. Only dealers are allowed to import cars or Ecuadorians returning to the country. Even if a dealer ... Read More
Need to find a good and cheap pet shipper in U.S.
Hello, I give you this option, is an Ecuadorian company who ships pets in and out of Ecuador. They know the regulations here and how customs works in Quito airport. Contact Aero pets. Contact person Fernando Quintero fquintero@aero-pets.com Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
Ok, good luck with this paperwork. Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
No, I have living in Cuenca for a long time. This thing about the Criminal record is new, since the end of last year. I know people that had to go trough this and they got a taxi with a bilingual driver to help them with this. Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
Of course, everything is close at that time, so no bathrooms available. Maybe you can get a taxi that he will wait for you until the police station is open so you can rest in the car from time to time but who knows if the other people is going to ... Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
Ok, I got the whole information about this police document you need for your Visa. First, I have to apologize because I thought you were talking about the Movimiento Migratorio. The document you need is Certificado de Antecedentes Penales ... Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
Guayaquil is your first port of entry in Ecuador, so you have to do the paperwork there. Read More
Need recommendations on visa process by jagsatori
My family will be moving to Cuenca for 5 months starting in January for a cultural sabbatical. We've been trying to apply for an extended tourist visa of 180 days but have received conflicting information from the virtual consulate website and ...
Hello, Are you sure you can wait two weeks to do this paperwork in Guayaquil ? As far as I know you have to do it like one or two days after your arrival to Ecuador. About the bus station, if you are going to the Migratory police station, this one ... Read More
Importing vehicles to sell from U.S.A by dmsfirstclass
Hi I am a US citizen and have a dual citizenship US/Ecuador. I am a car dealer in the US looking to open up a dealership in Ecuador and would like to know the process of importing vehicles from the US to Ecuador for resale , is this possible ? If so ...
Hello, Only major dealers and car companies are allowed to import cars to Ecuador, and only new cars are allowed. The government try to protect the national production so there is many restrictions for importers and taxes are heavy. Vinny Read More
Share a shipping container?
Hello, If you 6 month period has expired you have the chance to go back to the States for few days and then you have another 6 months to bring your container. If you're planning to bring your goods, you may need to go back anyways to arrange ... 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 ...
Hello, I asked our customs agent about the car and he said is not possible to import any old car. It has to be no more than 4 years old. The only option is for temporary imports for shows or exhibitions, this permit is only valid for a couple of ... 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 ...
Yes, I know. Is like the one in the movie. Let me find out with customs what are the options you can have. Vinny 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 ...
Hello Josseecu, If you are Ecuadorian living abroad for more than 2 years, you can bring a car as part of your household goods move BUT the car can't be older than 4 years old. In your case is not possible unless it can be declare as an ... Read More
Moving company. Not looking into the ''duty free''
How much items are you willing to ship ? Notice that based on the total weight/volume it will be better by courier, small volumes are difficult to handle by regular export shipments, mostly if you are not cover by the "duty free" ... Read More
Shipping household goods to Ecuador by Michael-2018
Hello everyone, I'm in the midst of a veritable nightmare trying to get my shipment out of the port in Guayaquil. While everything I've read and been told was that you have a one time, tax free shipment of all your household goods if you ...
Hello Robin and Joel, Is better to get a moving company in Ecuador as they know the local regulations and procedures. International moving companies, unless they have a solid and professional agent in Ecuador, don't have all the information ... Read More
Shipping household goods to Ecuador by Michael-2018
Hello everyone, I'm in the midst of a veritable nightmare trying to get my shipment out of the port in Guayaquil. While everything I've read and been told was that you have a one time, tax free shipment of all your household goods if you ...
Just an update for everybody. Ecuadorian Customs release a new rule for expats household imports to Ecuador that said the old regulation from 2013 is back and active, so based on this one, expats can bring his household imports duty free. If you ... Read More
Shipping household goods to Ecuador by Michael-2018
Hello everyone, I'm in the midst of a veritable nightmare trying to get my shipment out of the port in Guayaquil. While everything I've read and been told was that you have a one time, tax free shipment of all your household goods if you ...
Sorry about your trouble, this happen to many expats hiring international moving companies in his country of origin, international moving companies that doesn't have a clue about special Ecuadorian Customs regulations. The main and most ... Read More
Shipping / Importing a single large item (39 lbs) to Guayaquil by lebowski888
So it looks like I will be relocating to Ecuador in fall 2018. I'm currently in Guayaquil for the second time, each time I've stayed for about a month. I've done quite a bit of shopping at MegaKywi, mi Comisariato, the malls, etc. ...
Courier services are very expensive, if you ship from the States to Ecuador maybe the freight is good but once the item gets to Ecuador has to pass through customs and pay taxes. Not worth it. Laarbox, is another courier service and usually is a ... Read More
Investment Visa (securities) into an Investment Visa (real estate) by Paternostro18
Hi-Ya, Has anyone out there done this? I am a bit nervous that I might not find a home to purchase before my paperwork (like federal BG check) expires. Therefore I was wondering if I decide to apply for an investment visa with Ecuadorian securities ...
The CD has to be done for the time indicate by Ecuador Migration, then you can change it to buy a property but be careful and make sure before buy it that your are following the rules from Migration and the bank. Make sure your attorney understand ... Read More
Relocating to Ecuador. by Sckennedy11223
Hi My name is Steven. I'm considering retiring to Ecuador. My wife is Ecuadorian. I'm trying to get information about: 1. Becoming a permanent resident 2. Buying property 3. Dealing with banks there. 4. If possible the aprox cost of shipping ...
Hello, If you´re married with an Ecuadorian citizen, is very easy to get the permanent residence in Ecuador. I don´t remembe all the forms and regulations because it changes from time to time, but if you have a married certificated ... Read More
Can I export a 1972 ford car from Ecuador to NY usa? by bronco loco
Is it possible to export a vehicle over 25 years old from ecuador to usa?
Hello, Here are the US customs regulations for importing a car into the US. As you can read, and old car like the one you want to ship is hard to meet the specifications. If you are an American citizen looking to come back to the US with the car ... Read More
Moving to ecuador by Crazyewok
Hi so where to start..... Ecuador probably was not my first choice I admit. But circumstances have kinda forced me to look to residency here. Basically i am in a long term relationship with a Ecuadorian woman. But due to insane and ...
Yes, I knew about this, and there are other similar stories that luckyly didn't finish this bad Read More
Moving to ecuador by Crazyewok
Hi so where to start..... Ecuador probably was not my first choice I admit. But circumstances have kinda forced me to look to residency here. Basically i am in a long term relationship with a Ecuadorian woman. But due to insane and ...
Good luck with your adventure, I meet some expats looking for living in the country side and it ended bad. First, locals trying to cheat on the land price or selling other people properties. The fact your girlfriend works in real state is ... Read More
Importing of goods to Ecuador by expats. by Alberta Chris
Hey all, I am curious about those who have imported their good to Ecuador. I am curious about what is allowed and what isn't. In all honesty I don't feel like buying appliances and bringing them is a good idea and I love the hand crafted ...
Hello, About your list, cars or vehicles in general are not allowed unless you are Ecuadorian citizen. Car parts are not allowed as they're not part of household items and the same apply for construction items. Tools are ok but in small ... Read More
Town to Move to in Ecuador by Confluencia
I recently joined and this is my first post. My wife and I are planning to retire in Ecuador. We have traveled around the world and loved Ecuador . We will be coming to Ecuador for a month in September 2017 to help locate a city to move to. We have ...
Here is my point of view, there is a big difference between living in a city area versus small towns and is services. In rural areas the internet, water, health, security services are very simple and even sometimes are not available. Rural areas ... Read More
Moving Pet to Ecuador by cyrus1016
Hi everyone, this is my first post after joining expat.com, and i'm happy to interact with all of you :) Here's the thing, i'm currently working in China and going to move to Ecuador in late October this year, now i have a cat i would ...
You can get info at the following web page> www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/health-certificates/non-eu/ecuador-cat.pdf. Also, if you want personal help you can contact Aeropets, they help with documents and permit and shipping pets in/out of ... Read More
LEGAL Van/Shuttle service Guayaquil-Cuenca. by GMistral
Hello everyone! Finally! I found the van service that is legal, which means Cops won't impound the vehicle for transporting people between cities leaving passengers on the side of the road to their luck! Ok, its called ALIANZA. The bus ...
I used his service once and it was good. They didn't speed up as the other van companies so it takes a little longer to get to Cuenca but you have a relax trip. The office is located on Unidad Nacional, close to the Totems on Remigio Crespo. Read More
Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador? by SheriFreedom
Is Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador waters yet? Early on I looked at currents and it looked like it would take a long time, plus the Humboldt current coming up from the south should help. Is anyone testing the waters and/or the fish?
Maybe they are checking for radiation levels, but I didn't hear of any scientific report or investigation about the radiation on Ecuadorian waters or other coastal areas. So, maybe there is no radiation ?? I remember when the accident at ... Read More
Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador? by SheriFreedom
Is Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador waters yet? Early on I looked at currents and it looked like it would take a long time, plus the Humboldt current coming up from the south should help. Is anyone testing the waters and/or the fish?
Anyways, if the government do some test and find out there is high levels of radiation will do nothing about it. They are not going to ban fishing, it will ruin thousands of fisherman's, restaurants, export business... Read More
Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador? by SheriFreedom
Is Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador waters yet? Early on I looked at currents and it looked like it would take a long time, plus the Humboldt current coming up from the south should help. Is anyone testing the waters and/or the fish?
I think nobody in Ecuador, private or government, is testing the waters for radiation. I saw some satellite images that show the radiation is already here but hard to tell they are real or not. I think the radiation is already here due the ... Read More
Quotations for containers ( beware ) by Dackombe
Below are a few of my observations after getting six quotations for shipping a container of household goods from Montreal to Mirador San Jose, Manta. a. Delivery time quoted ranged from 3 to 4 weeks to 6 to 8 weeks. b. Despite being clear regarding ...
Hello all, Prices can change a lot depending which shipping company you're going to use. Is like buying a car, better performance, more expensive. Also travel time change if you use a shipping company that do many port stops or if only have a ... Read More
Moving arrangements by MegfromCT
Wondering if it is possible to order a large shipping container to be delivered to pack furniture and such to be shipped to Ecuador and delivered for unpacking similar to what the US Military does for overseas assignments?
You don't have to pay taxes if you want to bring your personal belongings to Ecuador. You need a Resident Visa for you and your family and then you can bring your container free of taxes. Of course, there is a process and rules you have to ... Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
They told me is a decent Mexican Restaurant named La Frijolada in front of ECU911 building on Francisco Moscoso and Rafael Torrres, close to 10 de Agosto ave. Few weeks ago went a really good one but expensive close to Mercado 9 de Octubre but it ... Read More
First Visit to Cuenca in May by BGCG
My wife and I are considering retiring in Cuenca in 2017 and we will make our first exploratory trip in May. We would appreciate any tips on the best places to meet expats for meaningful conversation and also a recommendation of a realtor who can ...
Hello all, If you need info about Cuenca and how thinks work here I can meet you when you visit. My schedule is tight but I will be happy to help. My email is *** Vinny Read More
Bringing your kids to Ecuador? by debdeb
Hello! My family ans I are thinking of moving to Ecuador'.We have 2 kids - 4 yo and 8 months old. We were wondering : 1- is it safe for kids? Is there a high number of abductions of foreign kids? 2- IS is safer in the city or in the country, for ...
Hello, About your questions. For a young kid I don't think is a big difference with the US regarding security or abductions. There is no targeting on foreigners related to this issues. Guayaquil and Quito are dangerous cities. Education is very ... Read More
Bugs in Cuenca by MikeGB
Sometime ago and before I came to live in Cuenca, I had read various logs stating that Cuenca seemed to have very few bugs. I guess these comments are relative to where you are from. But I can assure you there are bugs in Cuenca. I have lived in ...
Yes, there is bugs in Cuenca but not in the same amounts as in the coast for example. There is some black bugs, with six legs and like 3-4 inches long, really ugly. Also I saw a couple of times the biggest spiders I saw in my life. 18 inches and I ... Read More
Top Ways Moving to Ecuador to Live is Like Moving to Another Planet by cccmedia
Here are the Top Ten Ways That Moving to Ecuador to Live is Like Moving to Another Planet.... 10. Whether your destination is Ecuador or Saturn, both trips are a long way from Medicine Hat, Alberta. 9. Less oxygen than you're used to whether ...
Lonecowboy, If I read right, you only have 64 cubic feet? Is a really small amount, is better to bring it in a plane with you, don{t have to worry about customs, and paperwork. Vinny Read More
shipping
Hello, Sorry but is 6 months since your last entry to Ecuador to get your belongings tax free. in this six month period you have to get your Resident Visa and then bring your move. Is better to store your belongings in the US than here in ... Read More
free pallets and crates
No, they try to use them again. Usually are good enough to made furniture but they need to be sanded. Read More
free pallets and crates
You can find cheap second hand pallets on big hardware stores, Crates are recycle so is better to have them customs made by a carpenter. Vinny Read More
Big move in July by Drmark
My wife and I are looking to move to Cuenca. I will be there first around July 1 and she will follow in 30 days with the cat. Love some help or full service with the VISA's. I expect to post a $25.5 k bond. $25K for me and $500 for her. I ...
There's many people working on Visas in Cuenca: Facilitators, helpers, lawyers..... Usually you first pay a big amount of money to them, then YOU have to get all the documents and then wait for months to get your Visa. An option is Visa ... Read More
Labeling personal belongings being shipped to Ecuador
Hello, No, the boxes don't have to have the contents in a list. Only a clear big number and maybe your name if you want. The contents have to be detailed in a packing list. Notice the packing list is one of the most important documents for ... Read More
Import a motorcycle from usa to ecuador
foreigners with resident visa can´t bring any kind of motor vehicle as part of their belongings. Ecuadorians can bring one, new or used. Maybe you have the chance to bring one and pay taxes but unless you have a Harley is not worth it Vinny Read More
how to get to ecuador cheaply??? so expensive compare to costa rica by rakututu
why so expensive to get to ecuador 1250 vs costa rica - 718? i've been tracking this pheno for months now.. why so expensive? does anyone know a cheap way to get to ecuador? i want to go to banos or cotachi with my cat. like others have stated ...
A bus from Quito to Cuenca is like 8 hours if you travel at night, no stops. If you travel by day it will be like 10 hours. From the border to Quito could be the same time but I don't know for sure. Vinny Read More
how to get to ecuador cheaply??? so expensive compare to costa rica by rakututu
why so expensive to get to ecuador 1250 vs costa rica - 718? i've been tracking this pheno for months now.. why so expensive? does anyone know a cheap way to get to ecuador? i want to go to banos or cotachi with my cat. like others have stated ...
Well, as novato1953 wrote, I hear about this ferries like two years ago but no clue if still works. I'm considering 2-3 day trip by road inclding one flight from Panama to Bogota. Vinny Read More
how to get to ecuador cheaply??? so expensive compare to costa rica by rakututu
why so expensive to get to ecuador 1250 vs costa rica - 718? i've been tracking this pheno for months now.. why so expensive? does anyone know a cheap way to get to ecuador? i want to go to banos or cotachi with my cat. like others have stated ...
The easy way to get to Ecuador is by plane. Then you have the option to travel to Panama, find a ferry to cross to Colombia and then by bus get to Ecuador. I think it will take like 3 days to get to Quito. Vinny Read More
Customs and Oriental Rugs by Susan F.
I am preparing to move to my new home in Ecuador, but have run into a question regarding bringing my Oriental rugs. A friend recently wrote and told me that she thought I would be unable to get my rugs through Customs. Can anyone speak to this? ...
Hello Susan I do movings in Cuenca and I delivered many containers with lots of rugs inside and never hear of a problem bringing rugs. Maybe there is a restriction for oriental rugs but since all of them are rolled nobody can see how they look ... Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Well, I wish that's the reason but in fact, have been really busy, no time for walking around in downtown. Vinny Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Also, this restaurant, Marisqueria Chola Cuencana, is very close to the Motels zone in Cuenca. I don't know if they have the same meaning in the US but in Ecuador "motels" are a place you take your couple or "friend" if you ... Read More
Back from Ecuador
Hello Barbara, About your pets, I don't know how tre regulations are now, the problem is you have to deal with the airlines regulations and Ecuadorian customs regulations. Did you asked in other airlines about sending your pets? Anyways, my ... Read More
United States Postal Service and Customs by frugalpirate
So I've read through the threads. With the extra fees they have on airlines, I thought it might be easier to send some of my clothes and things down through the mail. It's around 60 bucks for 20 pounds. I read the restrictions on the USPS site and ...
Courier service to/from ecuador is very expensive, there's many restrictions too. Not worth it. Ypu can bring your used clothes with you, no problem. You don't need the invoices. The only limit is you can't bring more than 400 pounds of ... Read More
Bringing Stuff by Howardofocal
I will already have my resident visa (but not my cedula) when I arrive in Ecuador. So, will I be able to bring lots of stuff including a 36 inch tv with me without paying duty?
Hello, Yes still working on movings. Email me to: goecuador@hotmail.com to get the details. Vinny Read More
Bringing in electronics by BobH
I have read that Ecuador limits how much electronics can be brought into the country. For example, Bryan at GringosAbroad [url=http://www.gringosabroad.com/what-can-i-bring-to-ecuador/]quotes this[/url] from Ecuadorian customs ...
Are you going to stay in Guayaquil or you're moving to another city? If you're moving to another city by plane notice you have to check with the local airlane if they allowed this amount of luggage. Vinny Read More
Moving to Cuenca, Shipping household goods. by BryonDavis
Hello All, I have read some conflicting ideas on the subject of shipping a container of my household goods to Ecuador, when I move there later this year. I do not know if I can survive without my Tempurpedic mattress, and a few other things, ...
Hi, Yes, is better to have two or three options. You can send me your contact information in order to redirect it to a moving company in your area. Or I can send you the information about our moving agent there to you if is better for you. Let me ... Read More
Moving to Cuenca, Shipping household goods. by BryonDavis
Hello All, I have read some conflicting ideas on the subject of shipping a container of my household goods to Ecuador, when I move there later this year. I do not know if I can survive without my Tempurpedic mattress, and a few other things, ...
Hello Elizabeth, If you planning to do a moving you need to contact a moving company with an agent in Ecuador. I can help you with it if you want to know how much it will cost. To calculate the volume you have to multiply heigh, wide and long of ... Read More
Retired Military Couple looking seriously at Ecuador by BKind2Anmls
My husband and I are both retired from the military and would like to find a place where we can live on both our pensions. We don't need a big social scene and really enjoy nature and being away from things. Right now we have 38 acres of forest with ...
Bkind2anmls, I understand you point. If you live in a rual area, life is much easier than in a big city. Notice there's a big difference in Ecuador between living in a city and live in the rural. In the city you have all you need for a good quality ... Read More
Palermo by Howardofocal
Is the palermo condo totally anti pet or is it up to each owner when renting? Does anyone know of condos that don't totally exclude pets? My resident visa should be ready in a few weeks and I will be coming back to Cuenca to find a place for my ...
Hello Howard, As far as I know only owners can have pets on Palermo. And I know they have been some issues about this matter. Condos in general are becoming more restrictive about pets, Cats are more easy than dogs (they don't bark) but ... Read More
Moving to Cuenca, Shipping household goods. by BryonDavis
Hello All, I have read some conflicting ideas on the subject of shipping a container of my household goods to Ecuador, when I move there later this year. I do not know if I can survive without my Tempurpedic mattress, and a few other things, ...
Hello Stephen, If you have less than 4 cubic meters is not worth it to ship it to Ecuador. Too expensive. A full container has capacity for around 32 cubic meters. LCL is a good option but if you have more than 5 cubic feet, Only few moving ... Read More
Bringing Stuff by Howardofocal
I will already have my resident visa (but not my cedula) when I arrive in Ecuador. So, will I be able to bring lots of stuff including a 36 inch tv with me without paying duty?
Hello, I don't know exactly what are DECT phones. I know there's restrictions with cell phones but never hear about regular phones. Vinny Read More
Bringing Stuff by Howardofocal
I will already have my resident visa (but not my cedula) when I arrive in Ecuador. So, will I be able to bring lots of stuff including a 36 inch tv with me without paying duty?
Yes, you can. with your Resident Visa stamped in your passport is enough. Notice you are allowed to bring your stuff no more than six months after your last entrance to Ecuador. Also you can bring almost anything but there are some items like ... Read More
Items to ship vs. buy in Cuenca? by MissDenver
I wanted to find out what items I should ship. Are there items you wish you had brought? I will need TV, queen & twin beds, 2 mattresses, sofa, loveseat or chair, coffee table, small desk, dining table & chairs. I want to know how much to budget for ...
Hello mackbutter, Notice there's weight limitations for mail packages. regaular mail in ecuador has a 4 KG weight limit and if you bring more than this you will pay heavy taxes. Courier is very expensive too and it will customs inspection. An ... Read More
Looking to meet expats in Ecuador Feb 4th - 18th by hayleyvibe
Hi there fellow expats! I'm an almost 40 y/o Woman originally from England, I've been in the U.S. with my American hubby for 16 years. We now have an 8 year old daughter and 7 year old son, as well as 3 beloved canine children! We'll be visiting ...
Hello, I live in Cuenca and I will be glad to meet you and talk about live here. I know both local and expat communities and have children too. One advice, I think you want to visit many places in a short time, notice travel from Quito to ... Read More
I want to go there but i dont know if my degree works or not there? by Paula Cat
Hello everyone. I am Myriam, i am from Ecuador but i moved to Germany 1 years ago, I am learning german here and i am going to study my master but a distance. I just want to know if i could find a Job there, i am 31 years old, i am Bussines ...
Hello Myriam, Me imagino hablas español si eres de Ecuador así que te escribo en este idioma. Para estar segura tienes que ver en la lista de universidades que tienen convenio con el Ministerio de Educación . Mira la pagina www.senescyt.gob.ec y ... Read More
Starting to Reconsider Ecuador- Need Advice Bad! by virtualgrace
My mother and I are considering selling our homes in America and moving to Ecuador. All our initial research seemed to suggest that we could purchase a good home on, or around, the beach for around $50-$75,000. Now we are seeing houses far central ...
Hello, Life in Ecuadsor is very different than in the States. An, in Ecuador, is very different to life in a big city: Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca than in a small town. In small towns you don't have big shopping malls, good hospitals, paved roads, ... 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 ...
Hello all, The big deal about planes here is foreigners are not allowed to import planes as part of personal belongings. So, you will have to buy one here but... I don't know of any place in Ecuador you can buy one. I only saw few private planes ... Read More
villages near Cuenca
There's a big difference between Cuenca and the towns around the city. There's some ones that now are almost part of the city like Ricaurte or Misicata that have good services. Then you have others that rich people are moving there now like Rio ... Read More
Buy used car in ecuador, but registered in chile.
My advice is don't buy it. Maybe you can buy it but I can imagine all the paperwork, taxes, fees you would have to do/pay to get it registered. If you live in a big city go to the Vehicle Registration office and find out to be sure about ... Read More
Coming to Ecuador for a visit
Hello Montecresto, There's many place in Cuenca expats get together: CALIFORNIA KITCHEN Thursdays & Fridays 5 to 8 PM Fabiano's Pizzeria, located on Presidente Cordova and Mariano Cueva, Friday starting at 5:30 DI BACCO ... Read More
Used Van by Ivy76
Hi, Does anyone know what a used van with 9 seats would cost (approximately)? It doesn't need to be a new one, but not more than 5 years old. What would it cost to get it registered and on the road? I am also wondering what taxes would need to be ...
Prices for gas in Ecuador are: Extra $1.50 galon Super: $2.10 galon Diesel:$1.03 galon All three are very common all around Ecuador and prices didn't change in many months. Read More
What can be shipped? by Ivy76
I understand that it is possible to bring household items and furniture to Ecuador. I read that 200kg of clothing is allowed per person. Then I read that CD's and videos are not allowed. Does this really mean my children won't be able to bring ...
If you can bring it in your suitcases is better. In a moving could be OK, but depend on the kind of food and the amount. Alcohol has restrictions but I think peanut better is fine. Vinny Read More
What can be shipped? by Ivy76
I understand that it is possible to bring household items and furniture to Ecuador. I read that 200kg of clothing is allowed per person. Then I read that CD's and videos are not allowed. Does this really mean my children won't be able to bring ...
200 kilos of clothes is the max amount allowed but I don't recomend to bring this big amount and better if they already used. There's no problem with CDs, software, computers games, music instruments....You can ship anything that belongs to your ... Read More
Used Van by Ivy76
Hi, Does anyone know what a used van with 9 seats would cost (approximately)? It doesn't need to be a new one, but not more than 5 years old. What would it cost to get it registered and on the road? I am also wondering what taxes would need to be ...
@tbpof, I don't know way but there's only a few diesel cars, vans in Ecuador. Mostly trucks, pickups use diesel. Even diesel here is cheaper than gasoline. Read More
Used Van by Ivy76
Hi, Does anyone know what a used van with 9 seats would cost (approximately)? It doesn't need to be a new one, but not more than 5 years old. What would it cost to get it registered and on the road? I am also wondering what taxes would need to be ...
They're expensive and used mostly for tourism. Here are some prices as a reference: Hyundai H1 2011 $28,500 Kia Grand Carnival 2008 $26,800 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 313 - 2003 $22,800 Vinny Read More
We would like to get in touch with
Hello, In wich city are you planning to open your shelter? In order to open one, you need to be in contact with an ONG working in the country and they will act like your sponsors and support you when you submit the project to the goverment. You ... Read More
Bank accounts by Howardofocal
I will be in Cuenca for 2 months on a simple 90 day stamp on my visa. Will I be able to open a bank account or should I get a 12IX visa before I come? I'm trying to figure out how to pay rent and do shopping while I'm there.
If you're going to be here two months, use the ATM's and pay cash for your rent. You can open a savings acoount in Pichincha and Bolivariano (I think) without a Visa but they ask for a lot of other documents. You can open an account on a ... Read More
Questions About Living At the Ocean -Bahia de Caraquez by wanderingbears
Who wants to find out about Bahia de Caraquez? A small town on the Ocean here in Ecuador. North Central Coast. Calm relaxing town with everything you need to live and enjoy your life! Anyone want to know more?
In order to get the Professional Visa you first have to find out if your degree can be convalidated here in Ecuador. The Senescyt is the goverment's office in charge of this.Once they tell you it can be convalidated and make it valid in Ecuador you ... Read More
import tax for vehicles by LiZeke
Hi there. Moving to Ecuador hopefully soon and am thinking about driving to Costa Rica and then shipping our vehicle to Ecuador. Does any one know the import tax on this? Also, is there any golf? Thanks, Chris
Yes, there's a way to travel from country to country with a car. I think you can get a special permit at any automovil club, is like a passport for the car and everytime you cross a border you get a stamp. You havelimited days allowed in every ... Read More
import tax for vehicles by LiZeke
Hi there. Moving to Ecuador hopefully soon and am thinking about driving to Costa Rica and then shipping our vehicle to Ecuador. Does any one know the import tax on this? Also, is there any golf? Thanks, Chris
Well, you can try, but the burocratic problems and documents you will need, taxes. The fact you're bringing and American car from Costa Rica. It will not worth it and you probably will pay more money in movings and taxes than the value of the ... Read More
import tax for vehicles by LiZeke
Hi there. Moving to Ecuador hopefully soon and am thinking about driving to Costa Rica and then shipping our vehicle to Ecuador. Does any one know the import tax on this? Also, is there any golf? Thanks, Chris
Sorry but only Ecuadorians returning to the country are allowed to bring cars without taxes. Foreigners moving to Ecuador are not allowed to bring any kind of car, bikes, motorboats, etc. This are the rules as few months ago and I don't think they ... Read More
Maps
Hello, There is some stores in Cuenca where you can buy a map. The best are in Monsalve office suplies. You can get one for free in the Tourism Office in downtown Cuenca. Openstreetmap web page is very good, better and reliable than Google or ... Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Are you reading Game of Trones in Spanish ?? Congratulations, that means your Spanish is really good. Also, the use of "vosotros" is used many times in novels with the intention of create an ancient times atmosfera. Read More
the Ecuadorian way - customer service by defuera
I think this is better moved to a new thread ... [quote=Loving Ecuador]Bueno Gringo: Your attitude is great, you will do just fine if you really follow your aspiration to blend with the locals embracing their culture. Just as a recommendation, ...
Hello, You're right when Colombians came here many people got mad because they're best sellers than Ecuadorians and many stores and business hired them instead Ecuadorians. Anyway, I think, at least in Quito and Guayaquil, customer service is ... Read More
Long-Term Rental possibility in the Tena, Napo, Ecuador region
Hello Tony, How're you? We meet last year when you visit Cuenca. I don't know you still remember me. About Tena, based in your message I figure out you visit the city and you liked so you're looking for renting there. I'm right? Anyways, is ... Read More
the Ecuadorian way - customer service by defuera
I think this is better moved to a new thread ... [quote=Loving Ecuador]Bueno Gringo: Your attitude is great, you will do just fine if you really follow your aspiration to blend with the locals embracing their culture. Just as a recommendation, ...
In the US when working time is over, everybody pack his things and go home, they don't stay an extra second unless they already know they gonna be paid extra time. Here in Ecuador people work without real schedule, they have to work all they time ... Read More
Moving to Cuenca, Shipping household goods. by BryonDavis
Hello All, I have read some conflicting ideas on the subject of shipping a container of my household goods to Ecuador, when I move there later this year. I do not know if I can survive without my Tempurpedic mattress, and a few other things, ...
Hello Marionk, I didn't see your message until today. Usually my email told me when new messages apears in Expat-Blog, but sometimes it forget. About your question, yes we have a shipping contact in Arizona and I will send tyou a message with the ... Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Watch out Cuenca H.... Nards is watching you !!! Read More
Renting near Cuenca de Banos
In the road to Baños there's many options, mostly houses, some of them new construction. In the town of Baños there's no nice places to live. Don Bosco is a long street with many kinds of contruction: factories, restaurants, some buildings and few ... Read More
Machala by bretegolf
Has anyone had any experience living/visiting Machala. It's hard to find any information on this area. Particularly, home rentals. Thanks, we look forward to possibly visiting for 3 weeks next spring and partake in the beauty and Ecuador and it's ...
I consider Machala a very dangerous humid place. The beach is not good an mainly is a industrial port for bananas and another ecuadorian exports. There's some nice, expensives gated condos where the rich people can live with a tight security ... Read More
CC Issues by ZenSPIKE
Okay, before I left the states, I informed my CC/Debit bank that I was going to be using it in Ecuador. They said cool, no sweat. So, I tried it in a couple of ATM'S with no luck. Then I went to Super Maxi yesterday < with cash in my pocket > and I ...
Problems with credit cards happend everywhere, computer banks realize that the payment is made in another country and then is not allowed. It happens if you try to buy online too. It happened to my in the States, I order some items by internet but ... Read More
Where should I began to look? by kayana10
Cuenca sounded like the place to start but I really don't want to live in that weather. My husband and I are looking for: 60-80 degree weather small town/village perhaps near a river we only speak minimal Spanish, but currently working on ...
Notice real state in Vilcabamba is very expensive. And far away from important cities, so if you have an emergency you can be in trouble. Paute is a small nice town close to Cuenca and really cheap, I did a moving there for a expat couple and they ... Read More
WINE OR WINE-NOT??? When we do leave by pele6254
in a few months the holidays will be approaching and that's when I buy wine and champagne, Can you tell me if it's expensive there or should I bring some wine from California as I can buy cheap here but if it's NOT expensive in Cuenca I really ...
Thnks for the offer but Cognac is kind strong for me. Anyways, we have to wait for the next free trade agreement between Ecuador and the European Community, if they get an agreement maybe we can have european wine with les taxes in exchange for free ... Read More
Moving to Cuenca, Shipping household goods. by BryonDavis
Hello All, I have read some conflicting ideas on the subject of shipping a container of my household goods to Ecuador, when I move there later this year. I do not know if I can survive without my Tempurpedic mattress, and a few other things, ...
Hello Jrinec, Feel free to contact me at goecuador@hotmail.com and I can answer your questions. Vinny Read More
WINE OR WINE-NOT??? When we do leave by pele6254
in a few months the holidays will be approaching and that's when I buy wine and champagne, Can you tell me if it's expensive there or should I bring some wine from California as I can buy cheap here but if it's NOT expensive in Cuenca I really ...
Yes, is a big problem, I didn t buy any wine in a long time and sometimes I get someone as a present, usually cheap chilean or argentinian wine. If you want to bring some wine you are allowed to bring only two bottles in your luggage and there is ... Read More
New Cell Phone Rules?? by njfost
Can anyone who has recently entered into Ecuador tell me if they had a problem bringing in their cell phones? I have read twice now, where Ecuador is not allowing you to bring in your own cell phone. I'm wondering if this is just a rumor, or if it ...
You can bring one new and one used for each person traveling to Ecuador. If you can do that more than twice, I don't know. Maybe they keep a record in customs. Vinny Read More
The unofficial web page of the greater Cuenca expat community by Nards Barley
I designate this thread as the unofficial web page for the Cuenca Expat community. I also designate myself as the unoffical spokesperson. It is actually a continuation of my [url=https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
As far as I know only the floating lanters are not allowed. Will see what happen. And Zen hope we meet once you're here. Vinny Read More
Camping Equipment Rental in Cuenca? by jm141302
Are there stores in Cuenca that rent out camping equipment? I'm considering backpacking a few days in Cajas National Park. Specifically, I'd need a tent, sleeping bags, ground pads, small camp stove, and pot to boil water. If you know of any ...
Hello, First I don't think is allowed to camp in El Cajas by yourself. You need to look in a Tourist agency for camp there and get a guide. Travel agencies have all the necessary equipment to camp there. Maybe somebody else can confirm this. Vinny Read More