fdmcg
Ecuadorian expat in the USA
Forum posts
201
Contacts
3
About me
Ecuadorian
Lives in Richmond, VA
Registration: 27 December 2011
Property prices in the Minnesota by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Finding affordable housing in the Minnesota is number one priority for newcomers. Tell us more about the estate market in your district/city/region. What are the most desired places to live? What are the most affordable ones? ...
Neil, have you moved back permanently to USA? We’re still in VA. Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
I agree with Bob that the best way to minimize Ecuador currency risk is to limit USD,s in Ecuador including bank accounts, real estate, auto, etc. Should the government decide to drop the USD as it's currency or place more restrictions on ... Read More
Opening a B&B ,suggestions or advice appreciated. by Halcwhitley
My bride and I recently spent two months in Ecuador and fell in love with the country. When we return, we are considering opening a B&B . We are retired, but we both like to stay busy and really enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. We ...
Jesse, my intention is not to "pick an argument with you". What touch's a nerve with me is a poster being criticized for expressing their opinion and sharing experiences. The reason this site exists is for an open and free sharing of information. ... Read More
PETS business by ODAN
Dear all, Anyone to suggest.. that is it worthate running a small pets business in ecuador? I am fond of pts and farming and thinking to see rather i can open and run good business out of these two?? anyone with sugessions?? are there pet markets ...
Jesse, I believe referring to Michele as "negative" for sharing her opinions in unnecessary. You made a comment on another topic accusing those with less than glowing comments on Ecuador as not wanting other gringos to move to Ecuador. Lets let ... Read More
Opening a B&B ,suggestions or advice appreciated. by Halcwhitley
My bride and I recently spent two months in Ecuador and fell in love with the country. When we return, we are considering opening a B&B . We are retired, but we both like to stay busy and really enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. We ...
Jesse, my comments were based on my wife's family owing a hostel in Quito. We sold the business because it happened to be on a valuable piece of land that an adjacent business wanted. The price of the land was 20 times what we could earn from the ... Read More
PETS business by ODAN
Dear all, Anyone to suggest.. that is it worthate running a small pets business in ecuador? I am fond of pts and farming and thinking to see rather i can open and run good business out of these two?? anyone with sugessions?? are there pet markets ...
Jesse, we all have different life experiences and expectations. The intent of this site is for each individual to express their opinion and for readers to see both sides of reality. Let's let everyone voice their own opinion unconcerned about ... Read More
Opening a B&B ,suggestions or advice appreciated. by Halcwhitley
My bride and I recently spent two months in Ecuador and fell in love with the country. When we return, we are considering opening a B&B . We are retired, but we both like to stay busy and really enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. We ...
Hal, there is no lack of B&B's in Ecuador (aka "Hostel"). You are competing against locally owned/managed hostels which charge $20-25 and low end properties which charge $5-8/night. Owning these properties is basically "buying a job" that will ... Read More
attention expats in Canoa by tlc
Please let us hear from any expats in the Canoa area---we would really love to chat with you...we are preparing to move from USA very soon & would appreciate some counsel-advice-knowledge-etc on various topics...Thanks !
Sue, I agree with Leonard that "barrios" refers more to a "neighborhood" vs a slum. It is an economically neutral term. I have never seen slums in Ecuador that compare in size to Brazil or Venezuela. In addition to a Spanish book, I suggest ... 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 ...
Blaenauboy: As an expat with an Ecuadorian wife, we returned to Quito in 2005 to care for her ailing mother. Based on this I would recommend against moving here: 1. As they say "you can never go home". I am sure your wife has fond memories of ... Read More
attention expats in Canoa by tlc
Please let us hear from any expats in the Canoa area---we would really love to chat with you...we are preparing to move from USA very soon & would appreciate some counsel-advice-knowledge-etc on various topics...Thanks !
Leonard, I applaud your acceptance of learning Spanish as an integral part of assimilating into the local culture. It is not easy. Read More
attention expats in Canoa by tlc
Please let us hear from any expats in the Canoa area---we would really love to chat with you...we are preparing to move from USA very soon & would appreciate some counsel-advice-knowledge-etc on various topics...Thanks !
Leonard, I am curious if you speak Spanish and impact it had on your assimilation. 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 ...
Michele, a great post that should be mandatory reading for those considering a move to Ecuador. While Ecuador has several attractions, it also has significant downsides. Read More
Sending money home from Ecuaor by Josh Freeman
I arrived in Ecuador last week, to work here for a year. Today I received my bank account. They told me in the bank that in order to send money from my Ecuadorean account to my own account abroad there is a 5% government tax (on top of bank ...
I use bank to bank if over $10K. US bank will need: Swift: Ecuador Bank Name: Ecuador branch Address: City: Quito Ecuador Account Number: Beneficiary: Name on Ecuador account. Read More
Happy Camper
Howard, great to hear the acclimation is going well. It is especially good you are making learning Spanish a priority. This will make everyday life easier and permit you to better enjoy what Ecuador offers. There will be "bumps in the road" however ... Read More
Las Olas by kenkelly5
I am looking into a new developement just south of Bahia called Las Olas. Does anybody have any information on this developement. Thank you Ken K
Norbert, I hope this community works out for all parties involved. At this point to make an investment in the project is a "gamble" that the project will be completed and attract sufficient others to be a financial success. I would only do so if I ... Read More
Sending money home from Ecuaor by Josh Freeman
I arrived in Ecuador last week, to work here for a year. Today I received my bank account. They told me in the bank that in order to send money from my Ecuadorean account to my own account abroad there is a 5% government tax (on top of bank ...
"If anything given Ecuador's new friendship with China, and well basically complete dependence on China, it would seem rational for the country to convert over to the Yuan" J, I assume the above is intend to be a joke. If/when Ecuador drops the USD ... Read More
Sending money home from Ecuaor by Josh Freeman
I arrived in Ecuador last week, to work here for a year. Today I received my bank account. They told me in the bank that in order to send money from my Ecuadorean account to my own account abroad there is a 5% government tax (on top of bank ...
Josh, it is my understanding you can carry out of Ecuador up to $10K in cash without paying the 5% tax. I believe it is reasonable to assume the 5% tax will increase until the USD's leaving the country are less than those entering the country. The ... Read More
Sending money home from Ecuaor by Josh Freeman
I arrived in Ecuador last week, to work here for a year. Today I received my bank account. They told me in the bank that in order to send money from my Ecuadorean account to my own account abroad there is a 5% government tax (on top of bank ...
The 5% tax assessed by the Ecuadorian government is an attempt to restrict USD from leaving the country and similar to measures in place in Venezuela and Argentina. It is reasonable to assume this tax will increase as imports outpace exports and the ... Read More
Ready or not here we come
Howard, I suggest you give yourself a few days to acclimate to the altitude and culture shock. Plan on eating light, staying close to home and listening to your body. Enjoy the experience. Read More
Accommodation for upcoming visit
Lady, I agree with Jesse your best option is to stay at the airport for the evening. I suggest you not bring packages for others unless you know them very well. 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
Mike, in addition to the chilly weather, the window/door insulation is poor. Most get heat from fireplaces but wood is pricey and many do not operate very well. Best solution is wearing sweaters and sweat shirts, electric blankets and flannel ... Read More
Pay taxes or ss for employing housekeeping help. by nancy roman
Hello, I would like to know if one has to pay taxes or ss for employing housekeeping help.
Nancy, we had a maid for five years which like all things in life has benefits and disadvantages. We liked house was always immaculate, everything was in its place, an excellent meal was ready at 1PM, we had fresh bread and juice mornings, errands ... Read More
Guayaquil Airport by cccoger
This will be our first trip to Ecuador and our first international flight ever. We will be arriving at Guayaquil Airport. What should we expect when we arrive? We will be bringing carry on luggage only. I read something about getting stamped. Could ...
Muneca, don't take the questions personally. As an Americans living in Quito, I get asked the same questions by US immigration in Miami. 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], ...
1. I suggest Arrayanas, a suburb of Quito. 2. All get paid minimum wage. With benefits about $5k annually. There are legal steps which are manageable. 3. Cost of car is 2 to 3 times USA so most expats do not own relying on buses and cabs. This ... Read More
Las Olas Ecuador development by rastadan
Looking for information regarding the Las Olas Ecuador development near Bahia de Caraquez. Has anyone been on site? How does the project look so far? Please share your impressions of the development plan and any observations you may have.
Rastadan, I hope everything works out for you in this project. From my perspective, your options are to buy now or when the project is substantially complete. The advantage of buying now is potentially a lower price and perhaps a better selection of ... Read More
New Here... The Great Shipping Debate by meganmvallejo
Hi, I'm Megan an American... my husband is a Colombian. We have a 2 year old daughter and a 3 year old pooch. We will be re-locating to Quito September 15. The hubs has started a business there and we are officially ready to make it our home. We ...
Megan, regardless what you decide regarding shipping, suggest you include a Breville countertop oven in your equipment. Small enough to ship with luggage, versatile for roasting/ toasting/ broiling/ etc. and WS has on sale at $200. We use more than ... Read More
New Here... The Great Shipping Debate by meganmvallejo
Hi, I'm Megan an American... my husband is a Colombian. We have a 2 year old daughter and a 3 year old pooch. We will be re-locating to Quito September 15. The hubs has started a business there and we are officially ready to make it our home. We ...
Megan, we used one of the many local brokers located in the Miami area. Read More
New Here... The Great Shipping Debate by meganmvallejo
Hi, I'm Megan an American... my husband is a Colombian. We have a 2 year old daughter and a 3 year old pooch. We will be re-locating to Quito September 15. The hubs has started a business there and we are officially ready to make it our home. We ...
Megan, we shipped a 20' container with furniture and new kitchen and laundry equipment from Miami to Quito in 2005. It cost twice the estimate (held in GYE for unknown reasons) and took six months door-to-door. From a hassle standpoint, it is much ... Read More
Golf in Ecuador, where are the places to retire and play golf. by bharris345
My wife and I are going to Ecuador early 2012 and would like to know places to visit that have nice courses. How much are memberships? Do they have homes/condos to rent? Would like to live there for some time before investing in a home. Are there ...
Chris, no I have not visited the area and will not be available for several months more. You can contact them directly to confirm status and estimated construction completion. Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Beth, the only problem I have with showers in Ecuador is inconsistent water pressure resulting in fluctuating temps from cold to scalding. You quickly learn to constantly adjust the mix. Like many things in Ecuador, you learn to adapt (or complain ... Read More
Questions about Cuenca from North Carolina by AUTiger72
My wife Melissa and I are a retired couple living in Asheville, NC and based on the preliminary research we have done would like more info on the Cuenca, Ecuador area. Our primary concern would be learning Spanish- Melissa has had some exposure to ...
Tim, if individuals do not feel comfortable to express their opinions without criticism it is difficult to understand how others can gain from their experience. Additionally, I did not find any of the criticism either inaccurate or misleading. ... Read More
Questions about Cuenca from North Carolina by AUTiger72
My wife Melissa and I are a retired couple living in Asheville, NC and based on the preliminary research we have done would like more info on the Cuenca, Ecuador area. Our primary concern would be learning Spanish- Melissa has had some exposure to ...
GTD, I am sorry to read of your disappointment with Ecuador. At the same time, I agree with all your negative comments and observation that Ecuador is indeed a third world country. Your comments are a healthy reminder to all to be prepared for the ... Read More
Introduction
Tex, Loja and Cuenca are significantly different in terms of size, services/shopping available, and support of expat community. If you are already experienced international traveller with Spanish language availability, Lola is an option if you ... Read More
Thinking to start a business in Ecuador, possible partnership. by burntumber
Hello, this is my first post as I just joined the forum. I`m a Canadian male in my early 30s. I`ve traveled in Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador and Costa Rica looking for a future place I could possibly relocate to and start a business. For me I ...
Burn, the hostel business in Quito is low margin, extremely competitive and with high startup costs. I suggest you get a job managing an existing operation to better understand the local market and keys to success. Bars can be profitable if it ... 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, ...
Joe, the service comments were related primarily to customer service. You are correct that return policies are limited and generally non existent. This is especially a problem in Ecuador as the quality of most products sold is poor due to extreme ... Read More
Approved!!!! by ZenSPIKE
Well, much has been said in the past as to how long the approval process takes for the Visa, and more currently, will we be delayed, or looked at negatively in the process due to the on going political issues with the US? My story is this. I applied ...
Neil, congratulations on your visa. Regarding learning Spanish, as with golf it takes patience and persistence which you appear to have in abundance. 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, ...
Vinny, customer service in general is very poor in Ecuador. For some reason which I cannot offer possible explanations they don't seem to enjoy or care for enhancing a customers experience. Oddly, this is not the situation in Colombia or Peru and ... Read More
GRINGO GOUGING be part of the solution by Mistymeaner
Hola all. If you're living here in Ecuador and are not a local you have experienced being charged more for everything from food to cabs to rent. If you're anything like me you may have thought the answer lies in education. Seemed like a ...
Brandon, your inability to "wrap your head around" the concept is due to your unfamiliarity with Ecuador. This does not diminish the reality of how the economy here works. Read More
GRINGO GOUGING be part of the solution by Mistymeaner
Hola all. If you're living here in Ecuador and are not a local you have experienced being charged more for everything from food to cabs to rent. If you're anything like me you may have thought the answer lies in education. Seemed like a ...
Misty, your message is clear: You feel you and other "gringos" are being discriminated against and ridiculed by the "gouging Ecuadorians" because you are "white". I believe you are misinterpreting how the local market works. Venders try to sell ... Read More
Coming to Cuenca by DocChumley
Hi, I am coming to Cuenca on Thursday, June 21st on a fact finding mission. My intention is to move there. I would really appreciate any suggestions you might have for my trip. Proper and nessecary/unnessecary clothing. How much cash should I ...
Ron, I am unsure which is worse. Divulging the information Neil points out or confessing that most of what you post is intentionally inaccurate. This makes it difficult to respond to your inquiries. Read More
GRINGO GOUGING be part of the solution by Mistymeaner
Hola all. If you're living here in Ecuador and are not a local you have experienced being charged more for everything from food to cabs to rent. If you're anything like me you may have thought the answer lies in education. Seemed like a ...
While I might word it differently, I agree with Morgie's sentiment. Negotiating for purchases is common in Ecuador and much of Latin America. It is only the uninformed that do not recognize this and adapt to the local market. Don't take it ... Read More
Receiving Mail in Quito by arnoldbria
I am new to Ecuador (only 2 months!) and have a friend in the States who wants to send me a package here. The problem is that where I am living I do not have a reliable address to receive mail. A local friend suggested that she could send the box to ...
Dr, I suggest you have a friend hand carry or plan on honeymooning in US and give it to her there. Read More
dental care in Quito by datdyat
I expect I am going to need some dental work done in the near future and I am wondering if I should get it done in Canada (where I have no health insurance to cover it) or wait to do it in Ecuador. specifically: I think I need 2 wisdom teeth out ...
I will send you a PM with contact information for an excellent Quito dentist. Read More
a co-op form of community developed by residents, not by developers by brainteaser
Hello, My name is Rebecca, new to this site. I joined here a couple days ago with my interest in retiring to Ecuador in a few years. Weve lived in Ohio for the last 20 years. My hubby and I plan to visit Ecuador soon. I am interested in finding a ...
Rebecca: I applaud your entrepreneurial spirit and organization efforts to find like minded kindred spirits to create a communal atmosphere. Good luck to you and others that join in your efforts. What I am confused about is your apparent disdain ... Read More
Coming down for a look see! by jpwinters
My wife and I have considered moving to San Miguel de Allende for years but recently have become interested in Ecuador. We are retiring soon and plan a 10 day visit Jan. 2014. We want to see 3 or 4 cities. Is that possible in our time frame. ...
John, all residents with a cedula (national ID) at least 65 years of age are entitled to a "50% discount" on international and domestic flights originating in Ecuador. This includes AA/United/Delta. The 50% is taken off highest rate so it typically ... Read More
Golf in Ecuador, where are the places to retire and play golf. by bharris345
My wife and I are going to Ecuador early 2012 and would like to know places to visit that have nice courses. How much are memberships? Do they have homes/condos to rent? Would like to live there for some time before investing in a home. Are there ...
Golfers: All "viable" golf courses in Ecuador are private. There are seven with perhaps five of good to excellent quality. I am aware of a new golf/housing development under construction called Montecristi (montecristigolfclub.com) 12K from Manta ... 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 ...
Christine: I had to renew my USA passport in February and transfer my Ecuadorian visa to the new passport. To make a long story short, transferring the visa effectively represents applying for a new visa as all the same documents and recent photos ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Larry, I have an extra set of clubs and a bag.....all you need is golf shoes. Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Andy, I have played the Cuenca course many times and know several friends that are members. One is an expat. It is a nine hole "quirkey" course that I can get you on so you can decide if you want to join. All seven golf courses in Ecuador are ... Read More
Best place to live in Ecuador... by Bazseville
Hi Guys, How's it going? I lived in Ecuador a while back as a TEFL teacher. I lived and worked in Quito. I had a few run ins with the locals but in general I had a great time. What do you guys think is the best place to live in ...
Arrayanas Country Club, outside Quito. Dry weather reminds me of Arizona w/o the extreme heat. Read More
Spanish immersion
Morgue, I do electronic banking with a Wells Fargo account in the US however we also maintain a local Pichincha account. We use the WF account for direct deposit and auto payment of US credit cards that we use in Ecuador. It would be difficult not ... Read More
30 years old vs retirees by starrbitz
My husband (an Ecuadorian) and I are about to turn 30 and we are thinking about moving to Quito. I see a lot of thoughts about Ecuador from the view points of retirees. I'm curious about advice, thoughts, opinions on moving to Ecuador in your ...
Way, you will notice within a few days that all Luna's postings reference her blog. No insight or reference to the subject topic providing any useful information other than "selling" you to access her blog. Read More
Cost of Living by TNVOL1999
Can someone help me and give me a estimate on the cost of living for a single male for a single male who is normal average in his living style 2 bedroom 2 bath Would love to talk to someone about moving to Ecuador
Neil, I like your suggestion of taking a 3 month vacation in country to speak with other expats and see what the country offers. That avoids the need to make what can seem like a life changing decision based on biased forum information to a ... Read More
30 years old vs retirees by starrbitz
My husband (an Ecuadorian) and I are about to turn 30 and we are thinking about moving to Quito. I see a lot of thoughts about Ecuador from the view points of retirees. I'm curious about advice, thoughts, opinions on moving to Ecuador in your ...
Luna, your constant referencing the web site is tiring. Read More
High Altitudes
Irish, altitude affects individuals differently. Some tire easily for 3-5 days and then are ok which is my case. Some get headaches and others have upset stomachs both of which normally last less than a week. In one case, a good friend had to leave ... 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 ...
Nards, you are an excellent addition to the expat community of Cuenca. Your willingness to accept the Ecuadorian culture and especially learn the language are to be admired. You are a model that we should all aspire to emulate. Read More
I'm surprised there's not a single topic on dating in Ecuador by Garick
Hi, there. Do you guys date Ecuadorians? Any tips or suggestions? Any fun stories to tell? I'm visiting soon on a mission to explore Ecuador as my semi retirement destination. So, naturally, I'm quite curious about your dating experience there. ...
Barbara, a US passport, some hair, a little money in the bank and we all start to look like George Clooney. I thought Miami had the corner of young women and old guys. Read More
I'm surprised there's not a single topic on dating in Ecuador by Garick
Hi, there. Do you guys date Ecuadorians? Any tips or suggestions? Any fun stories to tell? I'm visiting soon on a mission to explore Ecuador as my semi retirement destination. So, naturally, I'm quite curious about your dating experience there. ...
Garick, my Ecuadorian wife of 43 years has strict prohibitions on that. Read More
International Livings seminar, Worth it? by Txsbigfoot
We are planning to retire and move in late spring 2013. Been reading about the fast track conference in Quito sponsored by International Living. Cost 850, flight from Houston 1000, Hotel for 4 nights 400. I am trying to justify this trip for the ...
Acer, as TX points out living in Ecuador is a little like living in a Happy Days Theme Park. You know it is 2013 but the scenery and daily living is slightly off. You can get upset about how inefficiently things are however eventually you learn to ... Read More
politics in Ecuador by palmtree22
I am looking into retiring in Ecuador and was wondering about the political climate in that country. I have heard a lot of good things that Correa is doing, but I also know Ecuador has had a history of things changing quickly. I was wondering how ...
Nards, time will tell if Ecuador turns into Venezuela as Chavez had an eight year head start to manage Venezuelas economy. However, the trends are similar with initially changing the constitution to eliminate criticism from TV, newspapers and ... Read More
politics in Ecuador by palmtree22
I am looking into retiring in Ecuador and was wondering about the political climate in that country. I have heard a lot of good things that Correa is doing, but I also know Ecuador has had a history of things changing quickly. I was wondering how ...
Political situation is stable with no changes anticipated for next 5-10 years. Impact of politics on expats is principally financial with high taxes on imported items (to limit USD leaving the country) making cars, imported grocery items, liquor ... 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
OTC and inexpensive. Take about once per year over several days. Read More
30 years old vs retirees by starrbitz
My husband (an Ecuadorian) and I are about to turn 30 and we are thinking about moving to Quito. I see a lot of thoughts about Ecuador from the view points of retirees. I'm curious about advice, thoughts, opinions on moving to Ecuador in your ...
There are two issues you should consider. Financially, there is a reason many Ecuadorians left for Spain and the USA as compensation and advancement opportunities are limited here. The minimum wage is approximately $4,000 and the average wage is ... 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
We get our annual flu shots in USA when there and take medicine for intestinal parasites but that's it for immunization. Perhaps others have suggestions. Read More
New Member..
Tori, regarding golf while there are seven quality courses in Ecuador (Quito/ Guayaquil/ Cuenca) they are all private with memberships and monthly fees. If financially feasible, they are an excellent opportunity to meet locals and provide good ... 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 am not aware of any required immunizations. 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 understating is expats with a minimum of five years of residency can 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 ...
Chris, I suggest you visit Penzeys for spices in USA. Great selection, salespeople know their merchandise and sell in lightweight nonbreakable plastic pouches. 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 ...
Chris: We are to the point that if we find somthing we have difficulty locating the price is irrelevent and we buy whatever is in stock. Sauerkraut, yams and pumpkin are examples. We live in Quito near to Canal 8. 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 ...
Shannon, Campbell's mushroom soup used to be stocked in Megamaxi. Spices are very limited for some unknown reason and why we stock up at Penzes when in the USA. Let me know if you find corned beef which we have been looking for for years. 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 ...
Shannon, regarding climate think Chicago In spring with a few months of rain for an hour or two in the afternoon. Layered clothes work best with a light sweater or pullover in morning/evening and sleeveless blouse during day when temp gets into high ... 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 ...
Super, a flight of Feb 20 should be ok. Flights cancelled are Feb 19. As Larg states above, key will be finding cheap apartment perhaps with roommate. 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 ...
Super, you can't live in Quito on $400/month unless someone else is providing housing, food, medical and perhaps transportation. Accept you will be "roughing it" and living a spartan life. Your access to American foods will be limited however local ... Read More
Pollution? by efrater
Considering the prevailing winds in Cuenca, what part of the city would be upwind from el Centro, considering air pollution? Eric
Alberta, I agree that Quito air pollution is typically in the downtown area and due to bus traffic. Thanks to the wind pattern it does not linger. Many individuals blame eye irritation on air pollution when I believe it is primarily due to low ... Read More
Pollution? by efrater
Considering the prevailing winds in Cuenca, what part of the city would be upwind from el Centro, considering air pollution? Eric
Nards, I think Edd had a tough morning and I agree we all set preferences. Ours was apartment above the third floor on "quiet" side of building with a balcony and view of the city. 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
Edd, in Quito I have never heard of a similar concern regarding toilet paper and I have been in buildings over 80 years old. Also, smaller pipes that can't handle toilet paper have larger issues to deal with. Perhaps the limitation involved sanitary ... Read More
Quito and Cuenca Internet Quality? by crsR66
Can anyone comment on the quality and speed of internet service in Quito and Cuenca apartments??. Planning a visit and personal situation makes high quality/speed internet necessary. Thanks..
In Quito, speed is ok for vonage, Apple TV, etc. at around $50/month. Wireless routers supplied by Internet providers are junk so you may need to hardware or be in close proximity. Due to interior construction, signal does not travel far. Read More
Fly into Quito or Guayaquil by r&p406
Is it better to fly into Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) if you are going to southern Ecuador?? (Cuenca) Also: I plan on moving down there this year and when I travel down there next month I would like to bring as much as possible that I can stuff ...
Quito, my guess is Tx has a "friend" in Quito that he likes to visit. 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
Bob, I guess it depends on what you want to do in retirement. Cuenca has nice year round weather (no heat or humidity however rainy season can be depressing) and you will have time to explore and network with expats. Not speaking Spanish will be a ... Read More
Fly into Quito or Guayaquil by r&p406
Is it better to fly into Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) if you are going to southern Ecuador?? (Cuenca) Also: I plan on moving down there this year and when I travel down there next month I would like to bring as much as possible that I can stuff ...
Tx, with the new Quito airport opening Feb 20, your options are sleep in the airport or take an hour bus ride into Quito and back the next day. Until hostals are open near the new airport GYE is probably a better option. 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 ...
Rick, I would recommend the Marriott Hotel due to location close to shopping, park, dining and night like. Also has a good gym. As an alternative, consider more south in restored old town. 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 am not sure about knives however there are severe restrictions on owning guns. Read More
Looking for Apartment in Quito
Ray, I suggest you try and find an apartment/Suite you can rent within walking distance of the Korea Embassy as you will probably spend more time there than US Embassy. I doubt you will have to spend more than a few weeks in Quito unless you want to ... Read More
USA to residency in Ecuador by irishgirl112299
WHat does an American, who is not of retirement age, need in order to become a resident of Ecuador? DOes anyone have a general list of what is necessary? We lived in Granada, Nicaragua for a while, but becoming a resident was horrid and lengthy ...
I confirmed with Quito USA Embassy that you need to renew your Ecuador visa within 30 days of renewing your US passport. We have not yet confirmed documents needed to renew visa which were fewer than current requirements. Making sure you have at ... Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Luna, as I understand you had all the documents for the two of you translated and apolostized in Ecuador. This would be easier for Ray vs trying to do each in the USA. Read More
National Parks and Foreigners
Vinny, you raise a good point. Frequently as expats we assume safeguards of home are found everywhere. That there will not be large rocks in the highway, that signs will warn us of hazards such as a closed traffic lane, that someone will make sure ... Read More
What items do you most miss from the US? by hjschanke
Here's a hypothetical question for those of you who've been in Cuenca for a while. If someone were willing to bring you a full suitcase from the US, what would you have them fill it with? clothes? shoes? electronics? certain foods/spices?
golf clothes/ spices and kitchen equipment / cleaning and laundry supplies are consistently on our list. Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Barbara, see Luna's posting "above" of earlier today. We all have the same screen. I am not aware of a limitation of private messages and I have sent more than 5. You can save a copy of PM's sent and received. Lastly, most individuals including ... Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Ray, see if you can contact him on his blog (see address above) or send him a PM. Read More
Are there any retired US military expats in Cuenca? by dgreenw7
Hi, as you may have guessed I'm a newbie here. I want to thank everyone that have contributed to this site, it's been very helpful. I want to retire in the Cuenca area next year and wondered if there are any retired military out there to ...
R&P, I suggest you consider only getting a Ecuador resident visa at this time. If you are a US citizen by birth, getting citizenship of another country could potentially create problems with your US citizenship. (The USA/Ecuador Embassy website has ... Read More
Petty theft, belonging insurance
My suggestion, if valuable or important to you don't carry on the street. If you must have a watch, carry a cheap one. Carry a copy of your passport, not the original. Leave jewelry at home including earrings and engagement rings. Limit cash to ... Read More
Proof of return/onward travel upon entry? by suprsweets
Hey I am traveling to live in Ecuador 2/20/13. Many things I have been reading say that upon entry into Ecuador I WILL be asked for a proof of onward travel. Others say I they probably WON'T. Does anyone have any experience with this?
Sweets, Taca/Lacsa are related companies. Call Taca to confirm you will not have problem at wherever your flight originates or stops in transit. Read More
Proof of return/onward travel upon entry? by suprsweets
Hey I am traveling to live in Ecuador 2/20/13. Many things I have been reading say that upon entry into Ecuador I WILL be asked for a proof of onward travel. Others say I they probably WON'T. Does anyone have any experience with this?
Alberta, as Zen points out the issue of a one way ticket is not with Ecuador immigration, it is a potential airline requirement leaving the USA. Regarding cash, the $10K notification (a USA and Ecuador requirement) does not limit you from bringing ... Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Luna, does the $600 include obtaining the visa or only document translation/apostilized? Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Ray, as I recall we had the documents apostilized by a local notary. I dont recall the cost per document however am sure it was not $200. Someone on this forum should have updated information. Read More
Apostille of Social Security verification by rayjones50
I just received my Social SecurityVerification letter. Where do I need to go to get the Apostille on it?
Ray, if I am not mistaken we had all our documents apostilized here in Ecuador. Can anyone else confirm this option? Read More
Proof of return/onward travel upon entry? by suprsweets
Hey I am traveling to live in Ecuador 2/20/13. Many things I have been reading say that upon entry into Ecuador I WILL be asked for a proof of onward travel. Others say I they probably WON'T. Does anyone have any experience with this?
Bob/Zen, I used a one way MIA/UIO ticket on AA purchased with miles. I used AA as their miles requirement was 50% of round trip. Perhaps it was not a problem with AA as I already had my Ecuador resident visa. Read More