John
@jm141302
American citizen
Forum posts
105
Contacts
5
About me
American
Lives in Quito
Speaks English, Spanish
Registration: 05 October 2011
Ecuadorian Drug Laws by roybo
Hi! Been trying to find information on what substances are controlled here in Ecuador without any success. Is there a list of controlled substances to find anywhere online? I wouldn't wanna break the law. The traditional San Pedro cactus for ...
Just a note of caution about this one. It's good to stay hydrated to help adjust to higher altitudes, but there are a few cases were people have taken it too far and actually died or became very ill from water intoxication. Don't overdo it with ... 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 ...
Got back from hiking two nights in Cajas National park, and I used Adrian Aguirre for my camping equipment. He met us at our hostel with the equipment, and then we called him and met his girlfriend a few days later to return it. It worked well, ... 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 ...
Thanks Nards. Glad you could confirm it. I know in Quito there are at least two places that rent mountain climbing equipment. One is called Extreme Adventurers & Sportswear. Most people just call it Extreme. It's on Calama, between Reina ... 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 ...
I just got off the phone with a guy who rents camping equipment in Cuenca. His name is Adrian Aguirre, and his phone number is 0991518593. He speaks Spanish and English. He has everything I will need. I'll post his location and my experience ... Read More
Dog training and competition by EL Spiller
Hi, We are planning on relocating to Ecuador in the very near future. Our life in Canada revolves around our dogs. Does anyone know if there are dog agility or obedience competition in Ecuador? Greg & Robin Luna & Holly
I am positive I've seen dog agility parks somewhere in Ecuador. I saw it from the bus. I think it was in the south of Quito, in the San Rafael area, but I really can't remember now. I wish I had more info, but I know it exists in Ecuador. I'm ... Read More
Puerto Lopez information by kzeringer
Hi. I am thinking about visiting Ecuador in a few months and would like to visit Puerto Lopez on the Pacific Coast. Was wondering about the feel of the town and if it is regarded as a surfer community, tourist destination or neither. Are there any ...
There's a small grocery store on the main highway, Ave. Machalilla, between Alejo Lascano and González Suárez called Tia Express. It's a smaller version of the Tia grocery stores found throughout Ecuador. Read More
Puerto Lopez information by kzeringer
Hi. I am thinking about visiting Ecuador in a few months and would like to visit Puerto Lopez on the Pacific Coast. Was wondering about the feel of the town and if it is regarded as a surfer community, tourist destination or neither. Are there any ...
I was just there last week. It is a popular tourist town. I only saw a few surf shops and no waves. Maybe surfing picks up at other times of year. I did see a few dive shops and dive tour agencies. I saw a lot of tourists, Ecuadorian and ... Read More
Open Season on Ripoff Realtors by whytehorse
I came across these forums when I was searching for info for my mom who wants to retire to somewhere with a lower cost of living. Just to give you an idea what kind of person she is: She's a nurse who spent her entire life helping people get well, ...
The pizza places. Pizza Hut, Papa John's, and Domino's are also in Quito. Read More
Basic necessities by Exskipper
I have seen references to a lack of paper products, and I saw someone planning to bring food-quality baking soda back from the US (for bathing, tooth brushing.....). Sorry if I missed other blogs with good info, but I'll ask about how to find what ...
In Quito, I see allspice at almost every market. They call it pimienta dulce. It's used in many of the hot drinks like morocho, colada morada, and canelazo. You're on your own for real maple syrup. Good luck. Read More
Banos volcano fallout?
According to this http://www.igepn.edu.ec/#P2-Nina_st it basically says that the volcano will likely continue to have mild eruptions while releasing pressure. Depending on wind conditions, fine ash fall is possible in Baños but the wind usually ... Read More
Biking and Swimming by dmcmillen
We are seriously considering moving to Ecuador. We are currently looking at Cotacachi or a similar town. We are in the process of doing our homework and getting ready to come down for a couple of months to check everything out. As an ...
While passing through Otavalo (near Cotocatchi) this past weekend, I saw a billboard for Centro Cultural y Recreativo Neptuno. Looks like it has a heated swimming pool and some other recreational stuff. I don't know much more about it other than ... Read More
Impressions of Cariamanga by jm141302
Joseph K requested that I talk about my feelings for Cariamanga, Loja back in another thread about flights from GYE to Loja. I had already knocked that thread off topic so instead of going off topic further, I'm starting a new thread. I've ...
Glad to have helped, Joseph. I'd like to visit Zaruma some day, but I doubt I'll have the time. I heard another Loja native have the same idea of it being a drug smuggling city. They said that many of the stores were just fronts and only open ... Read More
Impressions of Cariamanga
Joseph K requested that I talk about my feelings for Cariamanga, Loja back in another thread about flights from GYE to Loja. I had already knocked that thread off topic so instead of going off topic further, I'm starting a new thread. I've ... Read More
Flights from Guayaquil to Loja by tfyoung
I believe the airport at Catamayo is open. However, I can't find any flight schedules for Tame. Are there other airlines flying from Guayaquil to Loja, or am I doing something wrong on the Tame website? Thanks
6 hours was pretty close. It took us about 7 hours to get to Catamayo, not including a 40 minute break for dinner. Thanks again. Read More
Flights from Guayaquil to Loja by tfyoung
I believe the airport at Catamayo is open. However, I can't find any flight schedules for Tame. Are there other airlines flying from Guayaquil to Loja, or am I doing something wrong on the Tame website? Thanks
Thanks for the info. It turns out, I'm busing from Chone to Guayaquil, on to Catamayo and then Cariamanga. Read More
Flights from Guayaquil to Loja by tfyoung
I believe the airport at Catamayo is open. However, I can't find any flight schedules for Tame. Are there other airlines flying from Guayaquil to Loja, or am I doing something wrong on the Tame website? Thanks
I was just doing the exact same search. Try Kayak.com. It will show the times. You can't buy through them though. You'll have to buy the tickets through the Tame website. The airport is open. Does anyone know how long the bus takes ... Read More
Gringo-Cuencano moving to Cuenca in September 2013 by mitchguzman
Hi ya'll, My name is Mitchell, I am a gringo-cuencano moving to Cuenca in September with my wife and kids. Got some questions regarding banking, credit cards, internet, cell phones, etc. 1) I work for a web design company in Boca Raton and will ...
I can help with the PNC bank question. I use a PNC account. They say they charge a $5.00 fee for every foreign ATM withdraw. I have never been charged, and I'm not going to ask them why. Maybe it was because I told them I was living here. My ... 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 ...
Thanks Vinny. My only source right now is a probably outdated brochure I found online, found here http://www.etapa.net.ec/PNC/pnc_bibdes_map_caj.aspx It says a guide is optional for what we plan on doing, but it doesn't specify if it's optional ... Read More
Camping Equipment Rental in Cuenca?
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 ... Read More
Visiting Cuenca by suprsweets
Hey all, Visiting Cuenca for a long weekend. Any suggestions of must-do's or roads less traveled? Open for any suggestions. Also, great places to eat and/or nice affordable clean hostels to stay in? Thank you!
I'm surprised the Cuenca folk haven't answered, and the weekend it almost here. I don't live in Cuenca but I've been there a couple times. I agree with Neil. It sounds lame riding on a tour bus, but it's totally worth it. Here are a few ... Read More
Living and working illegally in Ecuador by TheGiovanniIncident
This may seem like an odd question. But I don't want to commit to any type of work visa. However I do want to experience another country for maybe a year. Is it possible to get a place and work side jobs for cash teaching english in ...
Just a story. Back in March, my friends overstayed their 90 tourist visa by 3 months. They flew out of the Quito airport with no problems at all. Were they very lucky, or is it the norm? I have no idea. Also, 10 bucks a night for a hotel is ... Read More
Mountain climbing by BobH
When I get to Ecuador, I'd like to try a bit of mountain climbing. No shortage of mountains, of course. I know absolutely nothing about it, so I would need lessons and to start out with easier peaks. I've done a bit of on-line research and have ...
Glad to help. I'll send you his email. I wouldn't worry about your age. We have people of all ages in each group. As long as you're in somewhat good shape and keep a positive attitude, there shouldn't be any problems. A good place to get ... Read More
Mountain climbing by BobH
When I get to Ecuador, I'd like to try a bit of mountain climbing. No shortage of mountains, of course. I know absolutely nothing about it, so I would need lessons and to start out with easier peaks. I've done a bit of on-line research and have ...
Hi. I've been to 4 glaciated peaks and around 11 lower peaks since moving to Ecuador. I plan to climb 3 more in the next three weekends. There's plenty of options here for all experience levels. Usually I go with a group in Quito. Throughout ... Read More
Calling an Ecuadorian cellular phone from USA? by jm141302
Hi. I want to give someone who is in the USA the cell phone number of an Ecuadorian climbing guide. I know the guide's number, but I think if I gave the person in the USA the 09******** number which I use in country, it won't work. How would ...
Thanks Amy, exactly what I was looking for. Good advice Al. You want to be the first to donate to my iPhone cause? I accept Paypal or cash. Read More
Tungurahua volcano - Update by Nemesis5
Since the Tungurahua volcano generated interest from the expat community in Ecuador the last time it erupted, I will post updates here to keep you informed on any new development and moods of the [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tungurahua]Throat ...
In addition to your updates, I find this website useful for checking up on Ecuador's geologic activity. http://www.igepn.edu.ec/ There's also a web camera of Tungurahua under the Volcanes tab, but most of the time it's shrouded by clouds. I'm ... Read More
Calling an Ecuadorian cellular phone from USA? by jm141302
Hi. I want to give someone who is in the USA the cell phone number of an Ecuadorian climbing guide. I know the guide's number, but I think if I gave the person in the USA the 09******** number which I use in country, it won't work. How would ...
Thanks. No I have not, but I knew there was a 593 in there somewhere. Any clue if this format is still valid? Read More
Calling an Ecuadorian cellular phone from USA?
Hi. I want to give someone who is in the USA the cell phone number of an Ecuadorian climbing guide. I know the guide's number, but I think if I gave the person in the USA the 09******** number which I use in country, it won't work. How would ... Read More
US passport renewal/ what happens with the visa? by chrisf29
Hi everyone, Has anyone renewed his or her US passport from Ecuador? Am I correct in thinking the process is by mail and I don't have to go to the embassy? I would prefer not to, they were idiots when I tried to turn in my absentee ballot. Another ...
Hi Christine. Long time, no see. I can't remember if it was just one or two photos. They get pasted on the form you fill out. When I got my pictures taken at one of the foto stores around town, they printed out 6 of them so you'll probably end up ... Read More
US passport renewal/ what happens with the visa? by chrisf29
Hi everyone, Has anyone renewed his or her US passport from Ecuador? Am I correct in thinking the process is by mail and I don't have to go to the embassy? I would prefer not to, they were idiots when I tried to turn in my absentee ballot. Another ...
Hi, I did this about a 8 months ago. I remember it was relatively painless, but I did have to go to the US Embassy twice, once to turn in the paperwork, and the other to pick it up and pay. Bring two forms of ID to the embassy. There may be a ... Read More
Flying into Quito, traveling to Manta, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Do able? by RyanSchaefer
My friend and I would like to fly into Quito then travel to Manta, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Staying in each city for a week. Now I know the transportation system in the cities are good, but how easily could we travel between them?
There's at least 2 bus companies, Trans Esmerldas and Panamericana International, that leave from Quito to Manta or Guayaquil out of the La Mariscal area. I know there's one more, but I can't remember the name. That would save you from having to ... Read More
When should I get my Visa? by RyanSchaefer
I plan on moving to Ecuador for at least 6 months. I hope I enjoy it enough to stay permanently though. Now I know as a US citizen I can stay for 90 days with just my passport. Would it be wiser to get my 6 month Visa ahead of time or is it fairly ...
I'm not recommending this, but my 2 Australian neighbors just saved themselves the pure misery of the Quito visa office and about $500 by not even bothering to get an extension. They stayed here 6 months only on their passport stamp and flew out of ... Read More
HOW TO TRAVEL FROM AMBATO TO CARCELEN? by suprsweets
Hi Everyone! I was wondering if anyone could enlighten me on how to travel from Ambato to Carcelén. I know that I need to take the bus from Ambato to Quito South Terminal, but what do I do from there? I think I have to take 2 buses or trolley's but ...
Hi. Glad to help. I actually just ran down there to check to make sure I was accurate. The people I work with probably wondering why I'm a sweaty mess. I updated my first explanation slightly, so now you turn on Vincete Ramon Roca from Galo ... Read More
HOW TO TRAVEL FROM AMBATO TO CARCELEN? by suprsweets
Hi Everyone! I was wondering if anyone could enlighten me on how to travel from Ambato to Carcelén. I know that I need to take the bus from Ambato to Quito South Terminal, but what do I do from there? I think I have to take 2 buses or trolley's but ...
Carcelén is the main bus terminal in the north of Quito. Quitumbe is the main terminal in the south of Quito. I've been on buses that while pulling into the south station, they will ask the passengers if anyone is going to Carcelén and the bus ... Read More
Carrying of passport. by customade
Hello Folks, I had read on some government site that a person should always have your passport with you. What happens in Ecuador? Is this rule applied? The same rule for Russia, Ukraine and China, but nobody does.
I only travel with a color, non-notarized copy, unless I'm going on a flight. I've only been asked for ID once at a drug trafficking control checkpoint between Quito and Tena. Everybody on the bus had to get off, they searched bags, and checked ... Read More
Altitude and Smokers
Everyone reacts differently to high altitude, smoker or not. I smoked roughly a pack a day for 10 years, quit 3 years before moving to Quito, and I handle high altitude without any problems. One study I found looked at 200 non-smokers and 200 ... Read More
Expensive Items in Quito by suprsweets
Hi Expats in Ecuador (Quito), I am heading out of the US in 13 days, to move to Quito. As I will be making peanuts for a salary I will barely be able to cover my cost of living and have extra cash. I will be making about $400 a month (Any comments ...
Not at all. Thanks. To be honest, I like pushing my comfort zone, but I definitely would not want to retire and finish out my life with my current living situation. Read More
Expensive Items in Quito by suprsweets
Hi Expats in Ecuador (Quito), I am heading out of the US in 13 days, to move to Quito. As I will be making peanuts for a salary I will barely be able to cover my cost of living and have extra cash. I will be making about $400 a month (Any comments ...
Hi, I'm still making 400 a month, but I'm unable to prove my existence. Millions of Ecuadorians are making $400 a month or less. Most of them I've met seem fairly content. They're certainly not living the same lifestyle as the expats I know ... Read More
Cost of living in Quito by mbtomlin
What its the cost of living maybe in Quito for a nice,safe furnished one bedroom, lot where its the best place till live in Ecuador ? I am seeking permanent residency.Does a traffic misdemeanor hinder my self getting work in the country? Some off ...
I agree with most of what Alley says. I'm still waiting to get paid, and I work at one of the largest, most expensive universities in Quito. That being said, I only get $400 a month. I'm not sure where she's shopping, but I don't feel food is that ... Read More
I want to move to Ecuador by mbtomlin
[center][s][/s][/center] I.am on some medications from surgeries here in the US, can I get these medications in Equator.PlEASE BE HONEST IN YOUR REPLY this is a serious questiom 1.levothyroxin (generic ( synthroid) bran 2 Prempro Hormone Brand no ...
There are no Walgreens, but there are pharmacies everywhere. These two companies are common in Quito and elsewhere in Ecuador. There are dozens of different pharmacy chains, but I could only remember these two off the top of my ... Read More
Busing from Otavalo to Cuenca by Kevin&Elaine2012
Hi Everyone! My Boyfriend, Kevin, and I are finally making our one month trip to Ecuador on May 29th, 2013. We will be flying into the new Quito airport and then taking a taxi to Otavalo. Yes, we both want to escape the USA. I have so many ...
I just was in Otavalo. The only direct buses out of Otavalo I could see were to Quito, Ibarra, Cotacachi and to a couple other nearby towns. So you will have to go through Quito to get to Cuenca. Buses from Otavalo go to Quito's Carcelen Terminal ... Read More
Immunizations by suprsweets
Hi all, I was wondering what type, if any, immunizations people had prior to moving to Ecuador. What do you suggest is necessary. Typhoid fever, hep, etc. Let me know. Thank you in advance. Shannon
I'm not sure which ones fdmac uses, but whenever I have bad stomach/digestive infections, I take Ciproflaxin or ciprofloxacina in Spanish. They range from $.50 to $.90 per 500mg pill at the pharmacies in Ecuador. I've been told by a doctor to take ... Read More
Busing from Otavalo to Cuenca by Kevin&Elaine2012
Hi Everyone! My Boyfriend, Kevin, and I are finally making our one month trip to Ecuador on May 29th, 2013. We will be flying into the new Quito airport and then taking a taxi to Otavalo. Yes, we both want to escape the USA. I have so many ...
I've done the bus from Quito to Cuenca a few times. Otavalo to Cuenca would only be a couple hours longer. I'm not really sure if you can get a bus directly from Otavalo to Cuenca. You might have to get a bus to Quito first and then to Cuenca. My ... Read More
Cheapest way to ship/mail a 3 lbs package from Canada? by Molari
Was curious. I wanted to know how the mail system is there and if packages sent by Canadian postal service to Ecuador and if the 2 to 3 lbs package would arrive safely to destination or if there is no postal service there, what alternatives is ...
We've had 3 or 4 packages shipped to us through regular Ecuador mail. They must be under 4kg and be valued less than $400. We didn't have any problems. It cost around $60. The person receiving the package will have to pay an import tax based on ... Read More
Immunizations by suprsweets
Hi all, I was wondering what type, if any, immunizations people had prior to moving to Ecuador. What do you suggest is necessary. Typhoid fever, hep, etc. Let me know. Thank you in advance. Shannon
Assuming you already had the typical shots when you were a kid (e.g. MMR) I got Hep A and B, a tetanus booster (I was due) typhoid and yellow fever. I don't know how much yellow fever costs here but I've heard it's pretty expensive in the States. ... Read More
Deep Thoughts with Nards Barley (my Cuenca non-blog) by Nards Barley
Just got my sofa delivered today, so my deep thought is on furniture. [img align=C]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rfx2nf37qzQ/UPB66rG7_GI/AAAAAAAAArw/KxVvlImUJns/s800/2013-01-11%252015.49.20.jpg[/img] I bought my Sofa set consisting a three ...
My American neighbor got his residency a few years ago and he says he has to vote. It's obligatory assuming your between 18-65. I think the fine is like $40 if you don't vote. Read More
Expensive Items in Quito by suprsweets
Hi Expats in Ecuador (Quito), I am heading out of the US in 13 days, to move to Quito. As I will be making peanuts for a salary I will barely be able to cover my cost of living and have extra cash. I will be making about $400 a month (Any comments ...
I live on $400 a month in Quito, but I live with my wife who also makes $400. A roommate to split the cost of an apartment will be essential. We've figured out a way to live where we actually save some of the money we make. $400 a month is doable, ... Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
A negative I'm tired of is people trying to take advantage of me. I honestly don't know if this happens more frequently to non-Ecuadorian looking people, or if they do it to everyone. Quite often people in stores/restaurants will try to charge ... Read More
Cuenca and Carnaval by jm141302
Hi Cuenca folk. How's Cuenca during the long Carnaval weekend? My parents are coming into Ecuador soon and I'm trying to find a location that isn't going to be completely booked, like a beach town or small city like Baños might be, and isn't too ...
Good to know Marazul. I'll be passing though on our bus ride from Cuenca to Quito that day, so maybe I'll try to make some time for Ambato. Thanks. Read More
exploring living in Ecuador by RickRoman
I'm interested In retiring in Ecuador. I'm going to stay in Quito Feb 6 to the 8th, can anybody tell me the best place to stay so I can shop for groceries, clothes, eat at restaurants and get a good feel for the city and culture in the short time I ...
Perhaps an idea of what you'd like to spend per night would help with suggestions. The Marriott is a great hotel, but it's also one of most expensive. I walk by a hotel every day called Folklore (search Google for Folklore Hotel Quito). It's in ... Read More
Knives in Ecuador by Stephen and Ramona
Here in West Virginia its not uncommon to have a buck knife on your hip. Is this practice accepted in ecuador?
I've seen deer in the Antisana reserve and Cotopaxi NP. Hunting is prohibited there though. Read More
Knives in Ecuador by Stephen and Ramona
Here in West Virginia its not uncommon to have a buck knife on your hip. Is this practice accepted in ecuador?
In the rural parts, many carry a machete instead of a buck knife. These people are like surgeons with machetes. It's incredible watching them use them. Machetes come in various sizes here. I would think in Quito and other big cities you'd get ... Read More
HELP need to get supplements into Ecuador and having problems by Mistymeaner
Hola all. Hoping someone out there may be able to advise or help. I ordered supplements I need and can't get here from the US and the package is now being sent back to the US. Something about it being over 4kg and over $400.00. There was also ...
Right. 4kg and $400 is the limit for the Ecuadorian postal service. Someone from the states once tried to send us a package that was over 4kg via the US postal service to Correos del Ecuador. In order to receive a package larger than 4kg, we would ... Read More
Looking for Apartment in Quito
Have you tried Vive1.com? Go there and search in the De Renta/Alquilar section. I think the La Carolina sector would be a good location for access to both embassies. The US embassy is farther north, but only a $.25 bus ride up Ave. Eloy Alfaro. ... Read More
National Parks and Foreigners
I think you are correct. Her accident was on the mountain Rumiñahui located inside Cotopaxi National park. I met her the week before. She was supposed to climb with our group up Volcano Cotopaxi that weekend. The new regulations seemed to have ... Read More
National Parks and Foreigners
Thanks, my boss and his American wife (not resident yet) were denied entry into Cotopaxi NP last weekend because they didn't have a guide. They were told that this is the new rule. Perhaps it's only enforced in the more popular parks. Read More
Cuenca and Carnaval by jm141302
Hi Cuenca folk. How's Cuenca during the long Carnaval weekend? My parents are coming into Ecuador soon and I'm trying to find a location that isn't going to be completely booked, like a beach town or small city like Baños might be, and isn't too ...
Thanks for the responses. Deserted is fine by me. We came there last year on Easter weekend and it was a ghost town. We had a great time and really enjoyed the city. We'll keep our eye out for the water balloons. Read More
National Parks and Foreigners
I've been told by word of mouth that all foreigners now must have a guide at all times to enter any national park in Ecuador. This rule doesn't apply to Ecuadorian residents in groups of 5 or less. Does anyone know more information about this new ... Read More
Cuenca and Carnaval
Hi Cuenca folk. How's Cuenca during the long Carnaval weekend? My parents are coming into Ecuador soon and I'm trying to find a location that isn't going to be completely booked, like a beach town or small city like Baños might be, and isn't too ... Read More
Stray dogs
In my neighborhood in Quito, most of the dogs on the street aren't technically strays, because they have owners and somewhere to stay at night, but they are free to run around where ever they want. I'm familiar with most of the dogs near my house. ... Read More
Service Dogs by EDLAm
Are service dogs permitted everywhere as they are in America? i.e. for the blind or deaf.
I've never seen a service dog being used, but I do see signs sometimes saying they are allowed, like on the bus or grocery stores. I wonder how difficult they would be to have here. I often see people who are just walking their dog get harassed ... Read More
Where does one begin? by EDLAm
The USA is going down the toilet rapidly: crime, corruption and expenses. I took early retirement so that I can move out of this country and am looking at Ecuador and Costa Rica. I would like to maximize my retirement money and have a slower pace ...
Read your profile. If you love dogs and animals be prepared to have your heart broken in Ecuador. There's lots of animal abuse and neglect here. I see it almost daily on my walk to work. I'm an animal lover too and it's rough. Read More
Coca Leaves
My friend who went to Peru said the people there chew on them. I have never seen someone in Ecuador chewing of coca leaves. I see them dried in bags or fresh bundled on strings being sold to the tourists in old town and at some markets. They also ... Read More
Canadian going to Ecuador for Volunteer Work by bradypreston
Hi everyone, Firstly, this website is a wealth of information! I have read a lot of posts here and elsewhere. I am collecting as much information as I can - However I have been finding outdated information in some cases, meaning older articles and ...
Hi, we seem to be in similar boats. I quit an office job I was good at and had potential growth to live abroad. My wife and I are working somewhat voluntarily, only getting paid $400 a month, but living in Quito where prices are slightly higher. ... Read More
Need Help Planning Trip from Cuenca to Quito by Brockstar
Hello, I've been in Cuenca for about 5 weeks now. Love it here, but I need to fly out of Quito on December 3rd. Rather than just flying up there on the 2nd, I'd like to take a bus to Quito and make one or two stops along the way. Is Banos a good ...
Good idea. Basing out of the city will let you visit some of the other popular places near Quito like Otavalo, Mindo, and Papallacta. You're the MMA guy right? My coworker is a MMA fighter. If you're curious and want to check out his gym in ... Read More
Need Help Planning Trip from Cuenca to Quito by Brockstar
Hello, I've been in Cuenca for about 5 weeks now. Love it here, but I need to fly out of Quito on December 3rd. Rather than just flying up there on the 2nd, I'd like to take a bus to Quito and make one or two stops along the way. Is Banos a good ...
I've done Quito to Cuenca via bus. I would absolutely recommend staying a night or two in Baños. In my opinion, it offers the most things to do compared to any other place between Cuenca and Quito. I'm not really into the indigenous crafts, but ... Read More
Crime in Ecuador by CaptainCowboy
Hello everyone. I have been reading about increasing crime in Ecuador and I would just like to relate my experiences of crime in the last ten years. I have had my car broken into 6 times, my wife had her car stolen and burned, I was assaulted by ...
I feel about 6 safe. We have been in Quito for about 10 months. Our neighborhood is not poor but not rich either. We don't have a guard or locked gait, and I have not heard of any problems in our complex. I don't want to jinx myself, but so far ... Read More
talk to me about Suicide Showers! by dickk
Found two blogs which describe this charming appliance as being pretty ubiquitous all through South America. Instead of the water supply running to your shower from a water heater, the heating element is IN THE SHOWER HEAD! So, I'm in a 36" X 36" ...
I have to make a couple corrections to my earlier comments about the electric showers. I came across this one in Tulcán this past weekend in the Plaza Hotel. Don't let the name fool you. We only paid $6 a person per night. First, my belief that I ... Read More
talk to me about Suicide Showers! by dickk
Found two blogs which describe this charming appliance as being pretty ubiquitous all through South America. Instead of the water supply running to your shower from a water heater, the heating element is IN THE SHOWER HEAD! So, I'm in a 36" X 36" ...
I actually don't feel they are that ubiquitous. If you're paying more than 7 dollars a night for your room, you might never see them. I see tankless, natural gas operated water heaters more often. Natural gas is much cheaper than electricity, so ... Read More
talk to me about Suicide Showers! by dickk
Found two blogs which describe this charming appliance as being pretty ubiquitous all through South America. Instead of the water supply running to your shower from a water heater, the heating element is IN THE SHOWER HEAD! So, I'm in a 36" X 36" ...
I've stayed in some pretty crummy hostels and have used these several times without incident, but that doesn't mean I'm not nervous as heck every time I have to use them. A friend once told me he got a bit of a zap while under the water and ... Read More
bicycles and buses
Totally correct about the local buses not having time to pick up bikes. I occasionally see people bring bikes on board the trolley-like buses in Quito, like the Ecovia, Trolebus, and MetroBusQ, but you better be quick getting on and off and hope ... Read More
Looking to living in Ecuador on $1,000 or less a month for two
My wife and I are here more or less voluntarily and are paid 800 a month total, of which we save about 20% to be used for traveling when our work is complete. My life doesn't feel bleak and I don't feel like I've really given up anything that I had ... Read More
Newby living equador by rebound1
I am an American considering moving to Equador. Can any of you answer some questions. I am looking at cuenca or a good town on the ocean. I have income of 1200.00 per month from some rentals. I am 48 yrs old. I currently have an excellent paying ...
I understand fruits/veggies are plentiful, cheap and organic.Cheap and plentiful yes, but I don't think most of the food is organic. When hiking and riding on the bus, I often see people walking down the rows with sprayers on their backs spraying ... Read More
ATV rentals and trails in Ecuador?
I saw several different places that rent ATVs in Baños. I think they were $10-$15 per hour. I assume there are trails too that the people renting them will tell you about. Dirt bikes were more common than ATVs so the selection might be limited. ... Read More
Ecuador & the US Dollar by PortMacGuy
Just wondering... What is life going to be like in Ecuador, in the event the US dollar crashes... Can anyone give me any kind of projection here... I was reading somewhere on the net, that it was not advisable to live in Dollarized country's ...
There is no history of the dollar (U.S economy) completely collapsing. The Great Depression is the closest it got, and the rest of the industrialized world was affected negatively by it. Read More
Ecuador & the US Dollar by PortMacGuy
Just wondering... What is life going to be like in Ecuador, in the event the US dollar crashes... Can anyone give me any kind of projection here... I was reading somewhere on the net, that it was not advisable to live in Dollarized country's ...
In the mean time it would be wise to convert as many paper dollars as you feel comfortable into gold and silver coins.Owning physical gold and silver usually results in the loss of money unless you are a jeweler or trader. It costs money to buy ... Read More
LOH Loja Airport
According to the newspapers, the airport started construction on June 4th and the original timeline of construction was 6 months. In an article written August 8th, they have pushed back the deadline to sometime in December. It's hard to say ... Read More
Recent government changes?
I've been reading on people's blogs that Correa declared the Censo cards were useless and foreigners no longer need them to leave the country, and they are not issuing them anymore. Can anyone confirm or deny this? Also, I went to Cotopaxi ... Read More
Loja Airport
This is only second-hand info, nothing official, but my Ecuadorian co-workers, who fly to Loja often, say it will be closed for 9 months. They started renovations in April, so maybe it will open in January? It's really hard to predict when it will ... Read More
coming to Quito!
Hi, The Mariscal Sucre(gringolandia)area is your best bet to finding other expats. Specifically, a lot of foreigners go to the Irish bar Finn McCools on Joauquin Pinto and Diego de Almagro. Many expats live in the Guápulo area. From my observations ... Read More
Real Estate Listing's In Ecuador
Have you tried vive1.com for housing? Also try olx.com.ec It pretty much is craigslist for Ecuador. Read More
fixer-upper house by LeftClique
Hello, We're planning to come to Ecuador in two years and are trying to get informed. We're starting Spanish lessons this fall. We've read this forum and as many blogs as we can find and appreciate all the comments, but we still have a few ...
Hi Rette, this is pretty off topic, but I'll answer as best I can. Altitude effects everybody differently. It does not seem to matter your age or physical health. Very fit people can be strongly affected by altitude, just as very out of shape ... Read More
did you move o Cuenca alone? by dillclop
In January 2012, I visited Cuenca with my boyfriend and we planned to move there next month (July 2012). However, in April my boyfriend died suddenly and my plans are on hold. I do not have trouble meeting people, but wonder if moving there alone ...
Have you considered Vilcabamba? Vilcabamba, Ecuador You might find it to your liking.Vilcabamba is nice, but note at the bottom of the Wiki page the "changing environment" paragraph. I work with Loja natives and they have told me that the people ... Read More
Hello Everyone
Hi, my work takes me to the mountainous cites to the west of Loja, so I have some experience in that area. I may be able to answer some questions. Read More
Deal breaking questions about Cuenca Ecuador by Txsbigfoot
1. As a Southern boy I like my Bourbon whiskey. Do they have Bourbon like Jack Daniels, Wild Turkey, etc... for sale there, and if so can anyone give me an idea of the cost per litre bottle? 2. I see that you have to have an invite or pay a ...
Quito has Maker's Mark so I bet Cuenca does too. I've seen Wild Turkey in bars, so they must get it somewhere. Imported liquor is about double in price or more. Also, Jack Daniels is not a bourbon, but ironically the Ecuadorians all call it ... Read More
Natural Altitude Sickness Relief
The only proven remedies to help altitude sickness which are not manufactured pharmaceutics are: time, supplemental oxygen, and descent to lower altitude. Dehydration may aggravate or mimic the effects of altitude sickness, so staying well hydrated ... Read More
How to make friends in Ohio
I lived in Ohio for 28 years. Anywhere outside of large cities, it can be fairly hard to meet people, even for locals. A good way is to join a gym or volunteer with a local park or service. In the cities there are many recreational clubs, such as ... Read More
Cost of living in Ecuador by expat.com
Hi everybody, It would be very useful to talk about the cost of living in Ecuador. Don't forget to mention where in Ecuador you are living. How much does it cost to live in Ecuador? > accommodation prices > public transportation fares (tube, ...
I live in Quito. Cost of living prices are the total between my wife and me. We are 26 and 28 years old. We spent $650 last month. $75 of this was on traveling. Our monthly expenses vary depending on how much traveling we do. $380 for 2 ... Read More
alternative medicine in Cuenca by ocmcdaniel
Does anyone know about the options for alternative medicine, healing in Cuenca?
In the Andes there is the Limpia con Cuy. It's an Andean ritual where they wave or rub a guinea pig around you to restore balance and harmony and to heal any problems you may have. Smoke or incense is also used. Usually the guinea pig is killed at ... Read More
Public transportation in Guayaquil by Armand
Hi all, What do you think about the means of transportation in Guayaquil ? Is the network of means of transportation well developed? What modes of transport are available? Do you use them? How much is a fare? Are they relatively ...
Hi Mango7, Could you explain why they're terrible? I use the buses in Quito all the time, and I would like to go to Guayaquil in the future. What's different about the buses there? Read More
Shopping for clothing by Wnlight
We were in Cuenca last July. And we plan to move there sometime. It was difficult to find nice women's clothing for my wife's extra large size. The mercados all had slender sizes and the shops all had fancy, dressy clothing. Is there a shop that ...
There are indeed fabric stores in the cities in Ecuador. Sewing machines are also available but possibly expensive. There are also many seamstresses who have their own stores and machines. I bet if you ask nicely and pay a small fee, they´ll let ... Read More
lost email from forum member
I think it was me. I just sent you a private message. Read More
Must-visit in Quito! by expat.com
Hello :) In your opinion, what are the 5 most important must-visit places in Quito and immediate surroundings? We think of natural parks, historical sites, museums, permanent exhibitions to name only a few examples. [i]Thanks for your ...
In no particular order: 1. Basílica del Voto Nacional (climb the clock tower) 2. Oswaldo Guayasamín Museum 3. Go up the Teleférico (if the weather is clear) 4. Walk around the plazas and cathedrals in the Historic Old Town 5. Visit the Mitdad Del ... Read More
New member
Hi, I´ve seen people in Loja province who collect rocks that contain gold. One guy had many sacks of rocks he had been collecting. They take them into town and have them analysed and get paid. I was actually just in the city of Cariamanga and the ... Read More
Must do's in Cuenca by KuskoCouple
My boyfriend and I will be in Cuenca for 3 weeks beginning May 14. In this amount of time, what are the best things to do and places to see? Thanks.
Obviously this won´t help the original post, but maybe it will give someone else an idea. I was just in Cuenca this past weekend and would highly recommend going to the Marcado Municipio at the corner of Mariscal Lamar and Hermano Miguel. It is a ... Read More
Fanesca in Quito
It seems like every restaurant has fanesca right now. Why not try several? I´ve tried a couple. One was at a more or less fast food restaurant near Ramón Roca and Seis de Diciembre and it was pretty good. It was a little strong on the peanut ... Read More
Blending in .
I've lived in Quito for only 5 weeks but I've seen some pretty big and tall Ecuadorians. One thing I'd recommend from my observation it to get some leather shoes. Some of the teenagers and younger adults wear tennis shoes with jeans, but most ... Read More
direccion nacional de extranjeria by alliwarmi
Hi all, I'd like to know where the direccion nacional de extranjeria is. I've seen a few different addresses online and of course no one answered the e-mail I sent to them asking this question!! I'd also like to know their opening times and the ...
Hello, I know exactly where it is because I was just there yesterday to pick up my passport. I've marked it on wikimapia. Go to this link to see where. ... Read More
12 VI work visa
Hello, I am new to the forum. My Fiance and I are in the beginning process of starting a long-term internship in Quito. We fit the requirements needed to apply for the 12-VI visa. I was wondering if any one who has completed this process could ... Read More