LeftClique
American looking for information about Ecuador
Forum posts
109
Contacts
3
About me
American
Lives in Nashville
Registration: 17 February 2012
Why we didn't move by LeftClique
Hola, My wife and I thought about moving overseas a few years ago , but decided to stay in the USA. We did a lot of research on a lot of countries, but Ecuador was the most appealing. This forum is a good source of information, because it gives ...
Susan_in_Ecuador: "Applause for the Moderators!" Once again, I've been been drawn back in! Susan, I don't recall that we had any exchanges when I was active on this forum, but I certainly remember you as being always courteous, ... Read More
Why we didn't move by LeftClique
Hola, My wife and I thought about moving overseas a few years ago , but decided to stay in the USA. We did a lot of research on a lot of countries, but Ecuador was the most appealing. This forum is a good source of information, because it gives ...
Hey Mugs, I was about to fade back into the woodwork again when I saw your reply. Hope you're doing well. Not many of the same faces around now. Neil moved on to another South American country, as did a nice couple in San Clemente I got to ... Read More
Why we didn't move by LeftClique
Hola, My wife and I thought about moving overseas a few years ago , but decided to stay in the USA. We did a lot of research on a lot of countries, but Ecuador was the most appealing. This forum is a good source of information, because it gives ...
Well, that was quite a reaction! I'm not going to respond to the vitriol, but I will respond to some of the points that were raised. I'm 65 years old, politically liberal and well aware of my country's shortcomings. Two of my friends ... Read More
Why we didn't move
Hola, My wife and I thought about moving overseas a few years ago , but decided to stay in the USA. We did a lot of research on a lot of countries, but Ecuador was the most appealing. This forum is a good source of information, because it gives ... Read More
Another visa question by LeftClique
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ...
I've made an effort to research retirement options and types of visas for Panama. I've yet to find agreement on how much cash/income/investments, exactly, are required. That's a problem. My wife and I aren't thinking about ... Read More
Another visa question by LeftClique
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ...
I have a couple of questions. First, are you sure? From what I've read, a Friendly Nations visa also requires having a job with, or owning, a Panamanian company, and proving your salary from said company is enough to support you and any ... Read More
Another visa question by LeftClique
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ...
Thanks. I spent some time looking at blogs and websites yesterday and it seems a lot of people are retired in Panama on tourist visas. We'd heard the "border shuffle" was only semi-legal for Ecuador, but never checked on Panama. The ... Read More
Another visa question by LeftClique
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ...
Thanks, Sawman. I didn't expect to see anyone from the Ecuador forum over here. I'm beginning to realize it's difficult to find out the exact legalities of retiring to ANY Central or South American country, because I've found all ... Read More
Another visa question by LeftClique
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ...
Thank you, Sunnymikkel. My wife won't be eligible for Social Security for several years, so the only pension we'll have is my $953. I'll look into annuities and see what it takes to set one up to cover the difference. One other ... Read More
Another visa question
Hello, We're from the USA and considering retiring in Panama, but having trouble finding out exactly what the pensionado visa requirements are. I searched this forum, but the comments are old and incomplete. My Social Security check will be ... 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
Due Diligence, I don't see what you're upset about, unless you think it makes sense to put money down on a house that hasn't been built, in an incomplete development, in a foreign country. I'd also like to point out that you ... 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
I can't get Google to translate anything past the opening page, but the illustrations look like the small units for boats I've seen on other websites. If you speak/read Spanish, would you mind saying how much they charge to design and build ... 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
I haven't been able to find anything but wild numbers about the cost of desalination plants. The technology is new, evolving and uncertain. The link you gave is to a company that makes small units to provide drinking water for boats at sea, ... 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
Let's see, phase one is housing for 3,500 people? What's phase two? Another 3,500? Never mind the non-existent houses, golf course, and equestrian facilities, I want to see the price tag on a desalination plant big enough to serve that ... Read More
Ecuador sounds like a great place to semi retire by Snowpeach
We have done a bit of research and Ecuador sounds like a great place to semi retire...though we will be back and forth since we have lots of family in Canada. Just want to know if we would be safe on a farm somewhere outside Cueno (sp??) and if ...
Hey Barbara, we are in the US and would like to get an idea of the cost of bringing our forty pound dog. What do the airlines charge? Does Ecuador charge fees for dogs coming into the country? Thanks, John Read More
looking to move to Cotacochi/Ibarra by the end of 2015 by Joanneinict
Hi All, My name is Joanne, and I'm looking to move to Cotacochi/Ibarra by the end of 2015, if everything works out as planned. Right now I am finishing up a Master's Degree, and will defend my thesis in January. I thought about coming on a ...
Thanks for the link. I watched several videos and bookmarked his website. The man seems to have a good head on his shoulders. He's out to make money, but he's very upfront about it, which is refreshing compared to most of the travel and ... 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
Look on the bright side - after all this time, there's still an opportunity to pay in advance for housing in an undeveloped development being developed by developers who are really, really trusted. Read More
A Brief Personal Note by BobH
I don't want to get off-topic, but I guess this could be called expat-related: I have suffered a health-related issue that has required me to return unexpectedly to the US. I'm not sure how long I'll be here it looks like it could be ...
Bob, good luck and best wishes. John Read More
Single Lady wanting to move to Ecuador by TahoeTrish
Would love to hear from Expats living in Ecuador I am wanting to retire soon and rent a place there large enough for a garden.......not a condo would like a home. Is it safe for a single lady living alone in Ecuador... thank you for your ...
You guessed right, but I think the old boy really just needs to let off steam. Beside that, how are you, and are you going to go to Ecuador? We're still committed, but it looks like it will be mid 2015 before we can get everything squared away. Read More
Single Lady wanting to move to Ecuador by TahoeTrish
Would love to hear from Expats living in Ecuador I am wanting to retire soon and rent a place there large enough for a garden.......not a condo would like a home. Is it safe for a single lady living alone in Ecuador... thank you for your ...
You're not the only one. Read More
The countdown is on....13 days...
Congratulations! Looks like it will be another year for us. 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 ...
I just did. They're both like loud, flashy used car salesmen, except the lemon they're selling is goofy financial advice for paranoids. I don't know why anyone would give them a second glance. 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 ...
It was on Huffpo this morning. 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 ...
International Living is STILL claiming you can retire in Ecuador for $600 a month. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/17/affordable-overseas-retirement_n_1429436.html#s874483title=Vilcabamba_Ecuador_From Read More
Ecuadorian government subsidy on primary forest by expat42451
I understand that the Ecuadorian government provides a cash subsidy- I understand it is around $200 per hectare per year- for primary forest owners as an incentive to not cultivate the land. Also from my understanding it is either Agriculture or ...
How many private messages per hour are you getting from realtors since you asked? Weren't you in Ecuador last month? What do you think about it? Read More
Building costs. SCIP SYSTEM. by GMistral
Hello everyone! Im in Puerto Lopez, Manabi 90min south Manta, 90min North Salinas. Im looking for a builder who can build a house using scip panels (hormi2/panecons/M2) system. I was told that the construction material (everything) need to be bring ...
Maria, why do you want to use SCIPs? The weather is so mild you don't need the insulation, you can get all the strength you need with block or brick, and SCIPs are uncommon and expensive in Ecuador. You're planning a one story, 1500 square foot ... Read More
Driving by jessekimmerling
Not too long ago I got myself talked into buying a car. It's been a rough road ever since. As you probably have already heard, cars in Ecuador are expensive. I paid a fortune for a clunker and then proceeded to fix the brakes, carburetor, ...
How do you guys do everyday stuff like grocery shopping? I know there are taxis and buses in the cities, but your properties are up in the mountains and on the beach. Do you walk or bike? Just wondering. Read More
Driving by jessekimmerling
Not too long ago I got myself talked into buying a car. It's been a rough road ever since. As you probably have already heard, cars in Ecuador are expensive. I paid a fortune for a clunker and then proceeded to fix the brakes, carburetor, ...
How much is a fortune? We see beat-up trucks on PATIOTuerca for two or three thousand dollars and assume they'd need another $1,000 or so to get them roadworthy. We've thought about getting one to haul building materials and make hardware runs if ... 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
I'm supposed to request a seller's medical records before buying property in Ecuador? Can I be satisfied with a routine physical? Should I demand a mental evaluation? Prostate check? 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
Why shouldn't I be concerned? There are bad people in this world. I don't want anyone to get hurt. What's wrong with that? Just today I heard investors in another fancy Ecuadorean development, Vista Pacifica, haven't seen any progress since 2009. Read More
Got Me!!!! by ZenSPIKE
Went to the pharmacy this morning to pick up some scripts. When I went to pay the gal looked at the 10 dollar bill rather dubiously. Bingo.... it was a fake. Grrrrr!! The funny thing is I got it at and ATM at Bank Pichincha... I'm almost ...
Deal! But I pay in cuy and beer. Read More
coming to ecuador in May 2014. by Dallask
Not sure where to look at first. Any suggestions for cool towns in the south/ mountains. Looking to see if what International living says is true or a scam.
Sure, no problem. Go to InternationalLiving.com and click on the drop down icon at the top of the page called "Real Estate." Read More
coming to ecuador in May 2014. by Dallask
Not sure where to look at first. Any suggestions for cool towns in the south/ mountains. Looking to see if what International living says is true or a scam.
I guess International Living is a starting point for everyone thinking about moving overseas - it certainly was for us. However, they go far beyond the usual business over-hyping; they've written some of the most misleading, sleazy things I've ever ... Read More
coming to ecuador in May 2014. by Dallask
Not sure where to look at first. Any suggestions for cool towns in the south/ mountains. Looking to see if what International living says is true or a scam.
Unfortunately, many IL readers are likely to be naive and/or desperate to salvage their retirement. That's what really sickens me about International Living: they're preying on the fears and hopes of the foolish and the elderly. Read More
Las Peñas by jessekimmerling
Anyone here familiar with the little tourist town of las Peñas? I just got back from a trip up the north coast. My last stop was las Peñas, and it turned out to be an awesome place. It's been discovered by Columbian tourists and folks from the ...
Wow, I look away a couple days and - boom - you're rocking. Best of luck! Will you paint the exterior? Got a color scheme? What about shrubs and trees and flowers? Schizky! You're having all the fun and I'm stuck here with a lunatic client ... 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
There's considerable risk in buying into housing developments before they are completed, and no amount of visits, blog posts, testimonials or glossy websites change that fact. There are too many wind-bags, con-men and failed developments in this ... 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 ...
I should have brought this up: Amazon makes it difficult to impossible to import books to their e-readers from anyone but Amazon. That said, like other vendors, they have an arrangement with public libraries and that's where I've gotten all my ... 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 ...
You seem sure about this, but have you given them a chance? I ask because I assumed I'd feet the same way until my wife gave me a Kindle Paperwhite. I haven't read a regular book since. It is absolutely the best present I ever got in my life. I ... 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 ...
Robin, Thank you. Your thoughts and comments are exactly what my wife and I, and so many others, are searching for - honest, open, helpful information about Ecuador. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences. John 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
Excellent advice. Here in the USA, where real estate laws and consumer protections are familiar and at least mostly enforced, there are still thousands of developments that get dreamed up, started and either fail completely or fall far short of ... Read More
Las Peñas by jessekimmerling
Anyone here familiar with the little tourist town of las Peñas? I just got back from a trip up the north coast. My last stop was las Peñas, and it turned out to be an awesome place. It's been discovered by Columbian tourists and folks from the ...
First, please accept my congratulations on your marriage, my best regards to the bride, and my wishes for many years of health and happiness together. About the house, I have no idea about real estate there, but it seems to me the $21,000 price ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
Is that a machete in your pocket or are you just glad to see me? John 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 ...
You're too kind. I've enjoyed your remarks as well. My wife's name is Sandy. We're oddballs, I suppose - atheist, bookish, blue collar. I've a soft spot for Canada. My family moved often and we lived, briefly, in Hamilton, Ontario and ... 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 ...
Thank you, Michele. We don't have children, so no expenses there, and we'll be on Social Security, so we won't need jobs. We are definitely coming to visit before making a final decision to move to Ecuador. I appreciate your detailed ... 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 ...
Thank you for taking the time to share your insights. I welcome and appreciate all honest advice, negative or positive, about Ecuador. Would you mind talking a little more about the cost of living? You are the first person I've heard say it takes ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
On the Homesteader Macho-Meter, scale from one to ten, one being a kid building a tree house and ten being Norm Abram on steroids, I give you a solid ELEVEN. Dude, you are seriously badass. John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
I mentioned "Fine Homebuilding" magazine in an earlier post; it's well-written and informative, but tough going for those not in the trades. However, once a year they put out a "Best Houses" issue that's much more accessible. The photos alone are ... 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 ...
No, they are not. People considering moving to a foreign country, with a parent to support, having very little income, do not ask about making 250% profit on real estate deals. I'm not in Ecuador, but I don't have to be to know that's just ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
No, please, dive in whenever you want. I just couldn't figure out where you were coming from earlier, but I see now. John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
It's a small house, one story, light loads and catastrophic failure is unlikely, but, man, I hear you. The ins and outs of platform framing are as familiar to me as breathing, but this is a different ball game entirely. It's guess work. A few ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
Being a gnarly carpenter type and all, I don't want to come across as an effete bourgeois fop, but what about varmints and comforts? Let's say you build a tidy little bamboo/clay house. Don't you need screening for mosquitoes? Will birds try to ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
Thanks for the heads-up. I found a ton of their vids, but, as usual when I get on YouTube, I got distracted by New Order and watching Peter Hook play lead bass guitar. I'm just kidding, mostly. Do you read Fine Homebuilding magazine? It's great, ... Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
Details? Jimmy me lad, I couldn't see squat. Some posts seemed to be salvaged boards, but others looked like old angle iron. I assume the window and door frames were spiked into the bamboo ends, but who knows? I got the impression some of the ... 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?
Hey, wait a minute - Mugs, I thought you had decided to stay in the USA - are you having second thoughts? John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
I like it! Imaginative use of local materials. Looks like a concrete slab foundation, but I'd like to see it up higher to keep it out of the damp. I assume you have plenty of bamboo, but do you have good clay? John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
I dang sure do appreciate it. I'm tired of the drywall guys making fun of me for using a scribe to mark cuts. The joints are supposed to be air-tight before you tape, right? John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
There it is, publicly and in writing! I'll have the drywall delivered ASAP. When can you start? :thanks: John Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
That's the thing, isn't it? Achieving a pleasing blend of beauty and usefulness in our homes is a large part of what a good life is all about. I've been a carpenter for nearly forty years. Most of that time, my niche has been straightening out ... Read More
Attack in Cuenca by Halcwhitley
September 13, 1:30 PM a few blocks from Parque Calderon, two gringo friends of mine were both attacked from the rear as they walked on the sidewalk. The husband was knocked to the ground while the two young local teenagers/early twenties stole the ...
Neil: > Well, what can I say? He had a head start on me. The garage is coming along. I've got the plumbing and electrical roughed in and hope to hang sheet rock by New Years. John P.S. pog mo thoin Read More
Building supplies and stuff by jessekimmerling
I'm soon to start a construction project in a remote area 2 hours NW of Ibarra. I'm going to be building some simple cabins in the mountains. Anyone have any tips on the best places to buy building materials in Northern Ecuador? Any shops that sell ...
I'm glad to see some discussion about building materials and methods in Ecuador. I'd love to build a house if we ever make it down, but on our limited budget, it will probably make more sense to buy a fixer-upper we can live in while remodeling. ... Read More
Attack in Cuenca by Halcwhitley
September 13, 1:30 PM a few blocks from Parque Calderon, two gringo friends of mine were both attacked from the rear as they walked on the sidewalk. The husband was knocked to the ground while the two young local teenagers/early twenties stole the ...
My people are from County Meath. Is there Guinness in Cuenca? Read More
Attack in Cuenca by Halcwhitley
September 13, 1:30 PM a few blocks from Parque Calderon, two gringo friends of mine were both attacked from the rear as they walked on the sidewalk. The husband was knocked to the ground while the two young local teenagers/early twenties stole the ...
I want in on this! I'll buy the tenth round. If somebody wakes me up. Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
Smitty, I guess I'm missing something, so I'll ask you point blank. Are you advising me to lie on the retirement visa application? John Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
This is the first time I've heard of anyone "cooking up" paperwork to increase their income. I've read many times that rental income is specifically not allowed, that income must be from a pension. What happens if you're found out? John Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
Weird. I've been at 39 for a long time. Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
I'd like to slip in one more question. Under everyone's photo/avatar is your name, date of joining, and number of posts made. Why am I stuck at 39? Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
Sawman: Do you really want to live in Ecuador and have rental property in the U.S.? Heck, no! I hate it, but it makes sense, I think, in our particular situation. I bought a lot in the worst neighborhood in town in 2010, built a house, and am ... Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
Oh, man! Not again! This is the second time I've been stampeded by an old post. You'd think I'd have sense enough to check the date by now. Well, it's not all bad. I've learned about Nicaragua and Guatemala, and Mugs tutored me on tax law. John Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
Mugs, your advice is always sensible and authoritative and I appreciate it. I'll take a look at the Social Security website, however there are two things on my mind. One, the requirements could go up again. Two, we haven't been able to afford ... Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
j600rr, Thank you. Panama and Nicaragua were on our short list when we first began thinking about moving overseas. I have a friend in Belize and another friend, a Honduran, who will let me build on his land there. So, there are options. I ... Read More
Extending our 90-day Tourist Visas by e&p
***Do this with more than 30 days left on your first 90-day tourist visa.*** We just lengthened our stay by extending our 90-day tourist visas to 90 day 12-IX (12-9) visas in Cuenca. While this is not a difficult process, it requires some running ...
I was afraid they'd raise the bar before we could come in late 2014. Our one other chance is an investment visa, but it would take a couple of years or so for us to save $25,000 and I imagine they've raised that requirement as well. We'd better ... Read More
US Citizens and Income Taxes by mugtech
As long as you are a US Citizen the IRS expects you to report your world wide income and pay tax accordingly. If you are living on Social Security benefits and have no other income you will owe no income tax, Social Security benefits gradually ...
Hey Carlos, Any man that quotes Twain and takes a swing at Fox News is alright by me, but I'm an atheist hillbilly, so it's not like you won a prize. Besides, I think it was Disraeli, not Twain. They say one becomes more conservative with age, ... Read More
Changes in utilities by Joseph K
Interesting report today. Correa says that gas (for stoves) will be going from $2 per tank (lasts about a month) to $15 in 2016. While not that much for expats, a real burden to the poor. Correra suggests that the government will be promoting the ...
Joseph, I'm just as lost, but recall a conversation with an Irish electrician about the advantage of 220 systems (most of Europe). He said it transmits more efficiently than 110, thus giving one the choice of either saving power or allowing the ... Read More
Retiring in Ecuador with HIV....... by Drrsbald
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Thanks everyone for confirming the pension requirement is $800 plus $100 per dependent, because our plans depend on those figures. Now all we have to do is save enough money to cover the costs of moving to Ecuador, because we can't retire here, ... Read More
Retiring in Ecuador with HIV....... by Drrsbald
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Mugs: > I hope we're right about the $900, but OceanHideaway doesn't make many mistakes. You make a good point about the predicament my wife would find herself in should I die. There's a fifteen year difference, so she might wait many years ... Read More
Retiring in Ecuador with HIV....... by Drrsbald
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OceanHideaway said: "a pensioners visa if you have a verifiable monthly income of greater than $800 for a single person or $1200 for a couple" Ouch! Please say it isn't so. My Social Security will be $958 a month. We thought Ecuador required ... 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 ...
Congratulations, Neil. You're an inspiration. It's not too soon to think about getting a couple of good dogs. Read More
AFTER I HAVE APPLIED FOR RESIDENCY CAN I LEAVE by pele6254
Ecuador while I am waiting for a reply... as I have a rt ticket and I want to come back for a few weeks to the states to visit family would that be fine or do you know if Immigration is strict about leaving the country ???
Neil, el Mago: > So you really did it. That's great. I'd say a man who can change a dream into a reality is a magician. Felicitaciones, mi amigo. John Read More
Cost of living for two in Cuenca 2013 by Mistymeaner
Hola all. I spent the month of April keeping track of every cent we spent and here are the results with a bit of details and explanation to help those of you trying to figure out what the cost of living might be for you here in Cuenca. $400.00 ...
Misty, Thanks for taking the time to list your expenses. Would you mind talking about your apartment a little more? You mentioned it was $400 a month and that a similar place in Ontario or BC would go for $1400. What does that mean, exactly? On ... 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
Hey Mugtech, You might be a little grouchy now and then, but at least you're not scamming anyone or selling get rich quick schemes. Hang in there, buddy. John Read More
Cuenca Banking by jerry39603
I am considering moving to Cuenca but one concern is the banking system there. Is it safe? Are there special rules about opening an account for Expats? What about ATM and finally do they accept debit cards or is it a cash society? Thanks in advance.
Why worry about banking when, according to International Living, the entire world financial system will collapse this Thursday? No, excuse me, International Living didn't say that, it was their friends, The Sovereign Society. No connection at all. ... Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
Ed, I don't have anything more to say about International Living, except that I think you're too good a man to work for them. best regards, John Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
International Living has revised it's cost of living estimate for Ecuador twice in the last two weeks. On the 4th, I got an IL Postcard saying, "less than $900 a month, excluding rent." Yesterday, an IL article on Huffington Post said, "$1600 a ... Read More
Buying a (used?) car in Ecuador by unruffled
I guess this question is already here somewhere, but I've looked and can't find anything on it. What to expats usually do about getting a car? Or do they? Or do they find some way to get theirs shipped in? I have an older but excellent condition ...
Hey Fellas, There isn't a continuous road from North to South America. An area between Columbia and Panama called the "Darien Gap" is too rugged for road building, and there are bandits and political/military splinter groups. It's been crossed by ... Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
Hey Ed, Thanks for the response. In reply, I assure you, and the regulars here, that I have no intention of making a personal attack on you. On the contrary, it was your accurate and honest estimation of living costs that caused me to write, ... Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
Hey Ed, You seem like a nice guy and I don't want to offend you, but I don't understand why you write for International Living. You may have noticed my posts here; I am not an expat, but I am 60 years old, I've bought and sold houses, I know how ... Read More
Police Report by ZenSPIKE
Does anyone out there know how recent a State Police Report has to be prior to applying for a Resident Visa? The reason I ask this question is, I plan on re locating this coming June. I want to attend to all the legal formalities here Stateside in ...
Hey Mugs, You're not supposed to get caught. That's the main thing. Man, I hate to think what would have happened if I hadn't tossed all that orange barrel out the window that time I got pulled over. Whew! Dr. John, The Night Tripper Read More
So many different stories
Heya Luna, I've enjoyed reading your posts here, and I've seen your blog, but didn't realize the two were written by the same person. I really felt for you guys when I read the story of "Old Yeller," because my ex once had a Chevy Vega [world's ... Read More
So many different stories
Hey Movi, How much, that's the $64,000 question. We're wannabe expats and have researched a lot, but it's hard to get a precise figure. I get the impression most expats are used to quite a bit higher standard of living than we are, and so cite ... Read More
life in Ecuador by Domenick11
Hi, if you have any specific questions let me know, I work in Murali Hostal in Guayaquil, id be glad to sit down with you and give you an Americans point of view to life in Ecuador if you stop by, Dom
Ken, Did the developer happen to have a bridge for sale in Brooklyn? John Read More
Dog Breeds in Ecuador by starrbitz
I'm thinking about moving to Ecuador and do not currently own a dog, but would like to have once I arrive. How does one find dogs of specific breeds in Ecuador? Does anyone know if Australian Cattle Dogs/Australian Blue Heelers or other cattle dogs ...
Hey Starrbitz, We're a couple of years from being expats, but we've got two cow dogs, Kitty and Harvey. Do you know what you're getting into? They're like furry chainsaws that never run out of gas. We love 'em dearly, but ACDs are a LOT OF ... Read More
Just how, "conservative" IS Cuenca? by ChowBella
We've been looking at videos posted by Cuenca folks on youtube and there was mention of how conservative it is. In your opinion how conservative is it, really? We are not wild party folk (although we do drink, often), we aren't loud or rude ...
I've never set foot in Ecuador, but since no one else has responded to your questions, I'll give you my thoughts. My girl friend and I are Americans, plan on moving to Cuenca in a couple of years, have done a lot of online research, and share some ... Read More
Buying a (used?) car in Ecuador by unruffled
I guess this question is already here somewhere, but I've looked and can't find anything on it. What to expats usually do about getting a car? Or do they? Or do they find some way to get theirs shipped in? I have an older but excellent condition ...
Vinny, That is a great website for cars and trucks! I want the '64 Dodge truck. I love those old slant sixes and it looks like it's rust free. I'm going to keep looking and hope a flat-fender Powerwagon shows up - at $1.50 a gallon, I could ... Read More
Buying a (used?) car in Ecuador by unruffled
I guess this question is already here somewhere, but I've looked and can't find anything on it. What to expats usually do about getting a car? Or do they? Or do they find some way to get theirs shipped in? I have an older but excellent condition ...
Hey, You can find a lot of info about importing vehicles to Ecuador on Google, and an expat couple at Gringosabroad.com has an article about owning cars in Ecuador. My understanding, which is just what I've learned reading blogs, is there are a ... 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 ...
Hey Steve, Cotacachi keeps coming up in blogs and we're definitely considering it. Puerto Lopez, assuming it's on the beach and hotter, not so much - we're looking for the constant Spring/Fall weather we keep hearing about. Thank you, John Hi ... 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 ...
Hello Randynola, That sounds great! We'd really like to be in a smaller town, if Sandy can get fairly good Internet service for her job. We're homebodies, we like to walk our dogs, cook our own meals, get to know our neighbors, garden a little. ... Read More
Crime Story by Nards Barley
What I find odd about this story is I didn't see it in the El Mercurio or the El Tiempo newspapers, and I usually at least scan them each day. Maybe they don't want to spook tourists. [quote]On July 16th, 2012, a female U.S. expatriate living in ...
I did not mean to offend anyone, but if I have, I apologize. I don't think anyone was trying to scare me away from Ecuador. All I intended was a humorous remark about crime being worse in my neighborhood here in Tennessee. I did not say anything ... Read More
Crime Story by Nards Barley
What I find odd about this story is I didn't see it in the El Mercurio or the El Tiempo newspapers, and I usually at least scan them each day. Maybe they don't want to spook tourists. [quote]On July 16th, 2012, a female U.S. expatriate living in ...
We're a mile from the center of Nashville, TN. There have been five homicides within six blocks of our house this year. You're not scaring me! 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 ...
Hello All, I should have been more specific about our needs and what we're looking for in a place to live. Sandy works from home and needs reasonably reliable, reasonably fast Internet. Does that limit our choice of area? We're not looking for ... Read More