Robert Symington
@rsymington
American expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
111
Contacts
2
About me
American
Lives in Cuenca
Speaks English, Poco Español, Can Point in 37 Languages
Registration: 17 May 2013
Exploring Ecuador, beginning in Cuenca by lookingfortroublewifewonttravel
[[b][color=#1240a6]b]My name is George and a northern suburb 15 miles west of Manhattan is where I call home. I am a retired high-school educator having taught Spanish for twenty-one years and worked as a guidance counselor for nineteen. I have ...
I agree with vsimple on this point, particularly if possible relocation is in the future. Staying in a hotel, you will be just one of the tourists. Staying in an apartment will get you much closer to "the people" and experience day-to-day ... Read More
Exploring Ecuador, beginning in Cuenca by lookingfortroublewifewonttravel
[[b][color=#1240a6]b]My name is George and a northern suburb 15 miles west of Manhattan is where I call home. I am a retired high-school educator having taught Spanish for twenty-one years and worked as a guidance counselor for nineteen. I have ...
I think you would be well received. I've been here for 4 years with my wife living in Oregon and making trips here for a month, or two, every year, or so. That could be a marriage breaker for many, but my working life was spent working ... 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.
Certainly a possibility. However when I asked Bolivariano said they they had just started to comply in September. I had stopped in to the bank because my Debit Card stopped working and to do the CD renewal. Turned out they had locked the account to ... 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.
Yep, that's what they intend to do... for FBAR and FACTA (if the latter applies). The poster below yours is also correct. I had to fill out my W9 in October, when I renewed my investor visa CD. They (Banco Bolivariano) didn't ask for my ... Read More
New life by scubalynda
:cheers: Hello everyone. I've been looking to move to South America for a couple of years now, but never acted on it. I am a woman in my mid-50's, francophone but fluent in English and pretty good in Spanish. I adapt very well to anything, ...
Where are you in Cuenca? "Very smooth and consistent sidewalks"... jajaja 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.
I've not tried the US check thing, but if Nards "say's" (or any post by Nards, or CCCMedia) certainly has my stamp of approval. Now, I will take the time I go to the bank and try it. Regarding the grumbling... yeah... I wanted to ... Read More
Visas in Ecuador by James Caj
I do not know how the other Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices are working, but at least in Azogues all the processes are terribly slow and complicated!!! Big lines to get a ticket to submit your paperwork, I do not know why Cuenca office is not ...
Ah yes, Nards, there is that. Also after I posted, I then thought about the fact I was simply renewing my CD for Banco Central, and not applying for my initial visa. That may also make a difference. Read More
Visas in Ecuador by James Caj
I do not know how the other Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices are working, but at least in Azogues all the processes are terribly slow and complicated!!! Big lines to get a ticket to submit your paperwork, I do not know why Cuenca office is not ...
That's odd. I just renewed my CD for my 9-II visa in October, which required 3 trips to Azogues (the minimum number of trips that it can be done in). All three times over the course of a week, I would leave Cuenca on the bus around 9:00 AM, be ... 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], ...
Congratulations and well done Nards! 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.
I'm here on a 9-II visa. Last year, my CD paid 6.75%. This year the APR is 6.57% That's a good return where I'm from. Read More
Netflix and Roku by msantiago1256
Hi, I was pleasantly surprised to find that netflix is in Ecuador! I knew they where expanding and it was only a matter of time but they are already here and the selection is almost better (in terms of quality if not quantity) than back home. Has ...
And that ladies and gentlemen is why we are here... not Ecuador, but rather to get answers to questions. I personally have not done a speed test on my DSL. I watched the first two games of the National League without a problem... GO CUBS! Read More
Netflix and Roku by msantiago1256
Hi, I was pleasantly surprised to find that netflix is in Ecuador! I knew they where expanding and it was only a matter of time but they are already here and the selection is almost better (in terms of quality if not quantity) than back home. Has ...
Nards is spot on. I stream Netflix every day. Works like a charm. But then one day, I noticed that if I logged in using my EEUU account all I got was (paraphrased) "This stream is not going to work". Well, I'm resilient, so I VPN'd ... Read More
Private Health Care by jakefaust
Is there a Health care agent I can talk with in reference to Private Health Care.
Yes, there are private agents in abundance (some good, some bad). However, some things to consider... Do you have health problems that require a "specialist"? Have you looked at the IESS program (https://www.iess.gob.ec/) for the ... Read More
Keeping up with the news in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living in Ecuador provides countless occasions to browse local newspapers, listen to local radio stations or watch local TV shows. As everywhere else in the world, local media play a key role in informing the public. What are ...
That and the 27 voices in my head :lol: Read More
Keeping up with the news in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living in Ecuador provides countless occasions to browse local newspapers, listen to local radio stations or watch local TV shows. As everywhere else in the world, local media play a key role in informing the public. What are ...
I do a lot of the above, but I also have specific alerts set up at Google Alerts. So any mention of say Rafael Correa, Cuenca Ecuador, Cotopaxi Volcano, etc., regardless of source comes to my mailbox in summary form daily. Read More
Pharmacy in Cuenca
Fybeca is good pharmacy and they have branches in many Ecuadorian cities including Cuenca. Click on Cuenca on the left on the link below and the map will generate locations in Cuenca. https://www.fybeca.com/FybecaWeb/pages/locations.jsfI also use ... Read More
Proof of pension- certify by consulate or apostille? by johnplov
I'm working on gathering documents for a revista pension, and I've run across sites which say it has to be certified at an Ecuadorian consulate, and others that say it can be apostilled by th US State Department. The nearest Consulate is ...
The 12-X is a Tourist (non-immigrant) visa, but gives you 180 days as opposed to the 90 days the T-3 stamp you get at the airport upon arrival. The $25K would be tied to a 9-II (immigrant) visa. The diploma would result in a 9-V the link I included ... Read More
Proof of pension- certify by consulate or apostille? by johnplov
I'm working on gathering documents for a revista pension, and I've run across sites which say it has to be certified at an Ecuadorian consulate, and others that say it can be apostilled by th US State Department. The nearest Consulate is ...
Again, a word of reason. Read More
Proof of pension- certify by consulate or apostille? by johnplov
I'm working on gathering documents for a revista pension, and I've run across sites which say it has to be certified at an Ecuadorian consulate, and others that say it can be apostilled by th US State Department. The nearest Consulate is ...
Yes Cuenca boy, you are correct, but, to the new poster, you will still need to get your documents apostilled, by the state issuing them for the initial visa. I'm here on an "investor visa", 9-II. Have been for over 2 years now (going ... Read More
Proof of pension- certify by consulate or apostille? by johnplov
I'm working on gathering documents for a revista pension, and I've run across sites which say it has to be certified at an Ecuadorian consulate, and others that say it can be apostilled by th US State Department. The nearest Consulate is ...
Just a bit South from gardener1, the State of Oregon... How do I authenticate documents issued by federal agencies? Documents issued under the seal of a federal agency can be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State Authentications ... 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 ...
Just wanted to be sure your knew, you were asking in a thread with the last post being in September 2013. I also looks like jm41302 has returned to the EEUU, so they may not be monitoring the thread anymore. Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
My cost of $10 was based on the scientific method of just asking somebody in the neighborhood. The answer was probably based on a swag. With the price for rides over seven kms going into effect, it may be even more.As an engineer, I can certainly ... Read More
Surgery and Medications by Jim/Luz
My wife an I are thinking of moving to Cuenca in about a year. We are in our mid 70's. I had bypass surgery about 11 years ago. No complications. Has anyone who underwent bypass surgery been living there? If so, any comments would be ...
I'm taking Lisinopril and Chlorthalidone for blood pressure. So on one of my exploratory trips here, I needed to get the drug name and dosage in Spanish. So... 1. Google Search for the drug by NDC number. For example the Chlorthalidone, I ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
If necessary a moderator will move these to another thread. You are correct MikeGB, I was only renewing the CD and not trying to move it to a new bank, so I did not have to return the original to Banco Bolivariano until it was released by Banco ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
"Slap in the face..." was hyperbole. I too doubt there was any discussion about "screwing the expats", and you're right... it is just a governmental decision and nothing more and we'll simply have to deal with it. ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
Well, that would be kind of nonsensical, now wouldn't it. Then it would be a 4,400 mile trip one-way to Azogues and a lot more than $15-20.00, but thanks for the input :/ Read More
Pension Requirement Question by finster
Forgive me if this has been answered before, but I am wondering whether the $1500 minimum pension requirement has a specific date attached to it. In other words, I am 51 now. According to SSA, if I retire at the minimum collection age of 55, I would ...
I'm not sure where you have gotten you information, but $1,500 minimum pension... 55 minimum collection age... Here's a couple of links for you... better do some more research. ... Read More
cuban's need not apply !!!!!!!! by josectech
hi, just like to know why do some of the people from ecuador don't like cuban?
Just wanted to make sure you knew you were posting to a thread that the last post of over 3 1/2 years ago... symo Read More
Questions by Allayne
Hi, I'm new, just registered. Enjoy reading the posts with lots of useful living information! I will be moving to Cuenca, Ecuador sometime within 4 months. I hope to meet some of you at expat events in Ecuador. I have some Questions? 1. How ...
Me thinks that is not correct :) The T-3 is not extendable. The 12-X would replace any time left on the T-3, but in no case, not less than the original 90-days allowed on the T-3. Example. I enter on a T-3, go to my lawyer and say I want to ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
Nards, you know I love reading your posts, but alas, I think I was not clear in my disappointment. I know and appreciate what all you "ole timers" had to go through to get visas, either from Guayaquil, or Quito. It must have been very ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
Symo's understandably upset over this Azogues deal. So I'm hoping he meant savant. cccmedia in QuitoYou are correct!! I can't spell in multiple languages :-) symo Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
cccmedia, I will never leave Ecuador before you take the hair off and I release myself from the jacket and we sit across the table sipping way too much Rum. Trust me, I will post a play-by-play of how this change of visa goes, including the best ... Read More
Headache for Cuenca Expats: Visa Aps Must Be Filed Out of Town ! by cccmedia
Starting next week (November 5, 2015), Expats in Cuenca will no longer be able to apply for residency visas in Cuenca. The Foreign Ministry has announced the regional office in Azogues in Cañar province will process residency visas for Cuenca ...
cccmedia, you always continue to amaze me. This is a huge slap in the face of expats wanting to live and spend their money in Ecuador. I'm going to try the switch over to a 9-V Professional visa, just to avoid the yearly CD renewal thing. It ... Read More
Questions by Allayne
Hi, I'm new, just registered. Enjoy reading the posts with lots of useful living information! I will be moving to Cuenca, Ecuador sometime within 4 months. I hope to meet some of you at expat events in Ecuador. I have some Questions? 1. How ...
mugtech, you might want to check your length of stay information. From the Ministerio de Relaciones (who oversees visas)... "Visa Validity: Minimum ninety days, maximum one hundred and eighty days in each period of twelve months (not a ... Read More
Questions by Allayne
Hi, I'm new, just registered. Enjoy reading the posts with lots of useful living information! I will be moving to Cuenca, Ecuador sometime within 4 months. I hope to meet some of you at expat events in Ecuador. I have some Questions? 1. How ...
Allayne, they are strict about the minimum requirements for each classification of Visa. If you cannot come up with $25,000 for the CD for the 9-II Investor Visa, perhaps you have a Bachelor Degree. With that, you could go for the 9-V Professional ... Read More
Questions by Allayne
Hi, I'm new, just registered. Enjoy reading the posts with lots of useful living information! I will be moving to Cuenca, Ecuador sometime within 4 months. I hope to meet some of you at expat events in Ecuador. I have some Questions? 1. How ...
Allayne, mugtech and I are infamous sparing partners ;) But in this case, mugtech is spot on. Yes, you could possibly live on $800 per month, but I don't think you'd want too. I live a pretty Spartan life (e.g., small 1-bedroom apartment, ... Read More
insurance - can a 65 yr old get medical insurance? What cost? by toniop
Good Morning I have heard stories about older folks having to return to the US and give up their residency in Ecuador because they could not afford to pay for health care in Ecuador. Does anyone know if someone who is older than 65 can get medical ...
IESS (Ecuador's Social Security System). $72.00 per month, additional $10.00 for spouse. These are last years numbers, you would have to check the current price, but it should be very close to the above. Even private insurance Ecuador should be ... Read More
For Cheese Lovers Only by cccmedia
Posting on the Club Correos $42 thread, Top Cat stated that he was unable to find decent cheese on a trip to Ecuador. The unsliced blocks of queso blanco didn't do it for him. Fortunately for the 'Cat, there's an Expat cheese lover ...
I'm interested ZenSPIKE. How you doing? Been a while since we last typed :-) symo Read More
Ecuadorian cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Ecuador? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Ecuador and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
If Symington can take off his camisa de fuerza and I remove the peluca, I think we can make it work. cccmedia in QuitoI'll have to get a note from mi esposa. I'm sure she would give me a day pass :-) Read More
Ecuadorian cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Ecuador? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Ecuador and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
cccmedia, give La Locanda at try (over at the Swissotel) http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/quito/dining/la-locanda/ The web page says Attire: Formal, but I'm from Oregon... formal means Khakis and polo shirt :-) symo Read More
Ecuadorian cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Ecuador? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Ecuador and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
I have found 99.9% of the time that if cccmedia says it, it's good info. If I ever spend some time in Quito, would also like to meet for a cup of coffee :-) Read More
Ecuadorian cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Ecuador? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Ecuador and why not your best recipe. Thank ...
Yes. As long as I'm posting... I really like a nice plate of mote pillo (signature dish for Cuenca). I can eat for any meal :-) http://laylita.com/recipes/2008/03/27/mote-pillo-or-hominy-with-eggs/ I might add that anyone wanting to try their ... Read More
Houses in Cuenca by seastar46
Are there houses in Cuenca with yards to plant vegetables and fruit trees? Can anyone have a small farm in Cuenca?
Um... "small farm", probably not anymore than you could in Colorado Springs, Albuquerque, or any other city of 500,000 +/-. You could probably find a house with a yard for vegetables, but it would be a small yard. You could also do some ... Read More
Best Way to Get to Cuenca from VA? by peripatetic_soul
Hello, I've been perusing all the flights to Cuenca from Richmond, VA. It seems all of those require an overnight stay in Quito. However, interestingly, the airfare from Richmond to Quito is the same as to Cuenca! Many of those sites (CheapoAir, ...
When you say, "...a flight..." that indicates one flight. Your trip would probably be more like Richmond-Miami-Quito-Cuenca. There are no direct international flights into Cuenca. HTH Read More
Best Way to Get to Cuenca from VA? by peripatetic_soul
Hello, I've been perusing all the flights to Cuenca from Richmond, VA. It seems all of those require an overnight stay in Quito. However, interestingly, the airfare from Richmond to Quito is the same as to Cuenca! Many of those sites (CheapoAir, ...
I'll second the vote on Quito Airport Suites. When I moved here, spent about 4 days there just to hang out and do nothing. Have stayed there 3, or 4 times and every time was just what the doctor ordered :-) His US number (MagicJack) is ... Read More
Anyone teaching English in Cuenca?
I would wait until you get here. You really need to see first hand what is available and if it will meet your needs. I rent furnished, as I just did not want the hassle of having "stuff". My wife is still in the US for another year, so a ... 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], ...
Nards, all I can say is WOW!! I'm going back to EEUU for a couple of weeks and one of my first stops is a Jordanian place that has great lamb gyros and the humus is as smooth and creamy as, well, something that really smooth and creamy (nothing ... Read More
Please Recommended a Few Banks and List Why? by wlae84
I want to open a bank account here in EC. I have no idea on what grounds to choose one over another. Please help. I would prefer a bank that did not require immediate deposit. I plan to have $2000 wired within 3-4 weeks of opening the account.
No kidding... thank goodness I already had my Banco Bolivariano account when it was time to do the CD :-) Although the lovely Mrs. symo had presented me with it long before I even thought about moving to Ecuador... symo Read More
Please Recommended a Few Banks and List Why? by wlae84
I want to open a bank account here in EC. I have no idea on what grounds to choose one over another. Please help. I would prefer a bank that did not require immediate deposit. I plan to have $2000 wired within 3-4 weeks of opening the account.
I use Banco Bolivariano and have had no problems. They hold the CD I use for my visa, on which I receive 6.5% I would share with you the following. The most recent "catastrophic" failure was Coopera. I offer what is actually a pretty good ... Read More
Medications available in Ecuador (Cuenca)? by Wanderlusting
Hi all, My boyfriend and I are planning to come to Cuenca for 3-6 months and we would like to know about the availability of the medications below. Any information you can share on any of these, including (a) whether they are available at all in ...
Do you have the Ecuadorian (Spanish) equivalent names? For instance, I take Chlorthalidone, here it is called Clortalidona. The two pharmacies I use (Fybeca and Cruz Azul) would need the Spanish names to look them up. I got my translations at ... 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], ...
Other materials are available. All of it is expensive though, regardless of the material. Might want to slip that favorite saute pan into your suitcase :-) Read More
Gringos - Renta y La Vida by Keltic Tom
Hola to all you Expats, I have lived outside the USA for 20+ years and find my fellow Americans as interesting lot. The following joke contains more truth than humor. If you speak 3 languages you are tri-lingual, if you speak 2 languages you are ...
I've got a better idea Martin... how about you pack up and leave and I'll stay here. Instead of wallowing in a pool of self-pity, own up to the fact expats in this country and their impact doesn't make a pimple on a gnat's ass. Using ... Read More
Help with TAME Airline Ticket Changes/Refunds by mikatl44
Does anyone have experience with changing or canceling a ticket on TAME? My friend in Guayaquil (Ecuadorian national) was going to meet me in Panama this month. She purchased her ticket from a travel agency to fly on TAME from Guayaquil to ...
The post you were responding to is almost 3 years old. I would recommend you start a new thread asking about the current change policy of TAME. Just a thought. 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], ...
I don't want to derail the thread, but I would relate a tail of an English Composition Instructor I had in college that accused me of plagiarism when I used the word in a composition and therefor, she failed the paper. She said, "Nobody ... 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], ...
It was definitely a pat on the back. Some day, we must have coffee together :-) 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], ...
Wow... Nards, while I find you picayune, this post finds me eating my words. Keep it up Brother!!! 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], ...
Really, you're surprised? While I try to shine on folks with the big ? in front of the flag, since they have less than a clue than people who really get to remove the ?. On this one, I have to agree, people can be so ignorant that the thought of ... Read More
Gringos - Renta y La Vida by Keltic Tom
Hola to all you Expats, I have lived outside the USA for 20+ years and find my fellow Americans as interesting lot. The following joke contains more truth than humor. If you speak 3 languages you are tri-lingual, if you speak 2 languages you are ...
Tom, I agree that "gringo" is a pejorative in Mexico. However, here in Ecuador it is simply a statement of fact. The reason "...gringos are the only ones to call themselves gringos..." may be because we are gringos talking about ... Read More
Single woman $900 a month? by MissDenver
I am hoping to retire early in Cuenca on $900 a month. My income is 1425, but I have fixed bills, need to have money to send my daughter in college and 1 trip for her to visit each year. The $900 needs to cover rent, food, transportation, health ...
Until you reach full retirement age, then in some cases up to 85% of your SS is taxable on form 1040, but no earning restrictions. If it is earned income, as of 2015 , the first $100,800 of foreign earned income is excluded from taxable ... Read More
Single woman $900 a month? by MissDenver
I am hoping to retire early in Cuenca on $900 a month. My income is 1425, but I have fixed bills, need to have money to send my daughter in college and 1 trip for her to visit each year. The $900 needs to cover rent, food, transportation, health ...
Hmm... I've not run across that stipulation. I do know that I have to pay SS Taxes, if I work, but never the 45 hour thing. Would you by a slim chance remember where at the SS site you got that information? I'm not on a 9-I (rather a 9-II), ... Read More
Recliners by Jacque Messer
I know this is wierd but we're thinking we might have to ship a container to Cuenca just because since my beloved had bypass surgery he cannot sleep in a bed. He has been sleeping in his LaziBoy for 2 years. Whenever we go on vacation the poor ...
Well done home in Salinas... I didn't eve give Colonial a thought. Here is the link to their locations. Appears there are 4 locations in Cuenca. http://www.colineal.com/localesecuador.html HTH Read More
Single woman $900 a month? by MissDenver
I am hoping to retire early in Cuenca on $900 a month. My income is 1425, but I have fixed bills, need to have money to send my daughter in college and 1 trip for her to visit each year. The $900 needs to cover rent, food, transportation, health ...
A pensioner visa (9-I) is a resident immigrant visa. The Type 9-xx visas are "permanent" visas. You can work with any of the Type 9-xx resident visas. From Viva Tropical, http://vivatropical.com/ecuador/ecuador-visa (this was just one ... Read More
jobs by Stephen and Ramona
can an american with a resident visa work at a part time job say hair dresser?
I responded earlier in the thread. An American citizen will never escape the IRS. Even if you have no income other than retirement, investments, whatever, you are required to file and pay. Or, conversely, if you have no US based income period, but ... Read More
Recliners by Jacque Messer
I know this is wierd but we're thinking we might have to ship a container to Cuenca just because since my beloved had bypass surgery he cannot sleep in a bed. He has been sleeping in his LaziBoy for 2 years. Whenever we go on vacation the poor ...
I don't believe there is any connection between Craig's List and OLX. Craig's List does have Ecuadorian listings, but they are pretty spotty. Read More
jobs by Stephen and Ramona
can an american with a resident visa work at a part time job say hair dresser?
I was not clear. The EEUU is one of 2 countries in the world that tax foreign earnings of non-resident citizens. Eritrea is the other one (East Coast of Africa). See: International Taxation Read More
jobs by Stephen and Ramona
can an american with a resident visa work at a part time job say hair dresser?
Yes, and file the annual FBAR if you have more than $10K in foreign accounts and FACTA Form 8938 if you have more than $50K in foreign accounts. EEUU is one of 2 countries in the world that tax foreign earnings. Es lo que es. Read More
Recliners by Jacque Messer
I know this is wierd but we're thinking we might have to ship a container to Cuenca just because since my beloved had bypass surgery he cannot sleep in a bed. He has been sleeping in his LaziBoy for 2 years. Whenever we go on vacation the poor ...
This post may get rejected due to the number of links, but using OLX (sort of like an Ecuadorian Craig's List), I found these. I'm sure you could find new and the major malls and shopping centers (e.g., ... Read More
Traveler Checks vs Prepaid Debit cards by retiranlovingit
I will be moving to EC the beginning of next year and not wanting to carry a lot of cash I was wandering what is better to carry for ease of use travelers checks or prepaid debit cards. I also will have a debit/Visa card linked to my bank here in ...
In my experience... forget Travelers Checks. Debit cards (prepaid, or not) are going to incur fees. Are you possibly coming to Ecuador before you pack up and move here? If so, I would recommend you set up a bank account (savings is fine) at any of ... Read More
papers I need to establish myself in Cuenca by henrybear
Hi everyone, my name is Eric Beeldsnijder (male) and I am from Curacao. My profession: translator and I studied management as well, in Europe. I worked in statistics for over 30 years in The Netherlands and Bonaire. I wish to live in Cuenca, Ecuador ...
Oh poop... so my visa and Cedula that I got using my state report in Cuenca are invalid? Thanks for playing, but the only real "truth" is what is happening when you are here... es lo que es. 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 ...
Wasn't paying attention to timestamps... sorry. 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], ...
Oh thanks Nards... now I'm hungry. That frittata looks better than good. In fact the only way it could possibly look any better, would be if it was here on my kitchen table (and a fork in my hand). Thanks for continuing the food/restaurant posts. Read More
Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports by gardener1
Interesting article from the conservative and very mainstream CNN. Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports 3,000 Americans around the world renounced their citizenship last year. Meet five U.S. citizens who have given up their passports -- ...
Um... guess that's why last year I was at 8.5%, now I minpulate the tax code? No matter, I have grown bored with this thread about "Why expats are ditching their US passports", since it is now completely off topic and like talking to a brick. Thanks ... Read More
Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports by gardener1
Interesting article from the conservative and very mainstream CNN. Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports 3,000 Americans around the world renounced their citizenship last year. Meet five U.S. citizens who have given up their passports -- ...
mugtech, you might want to check the definition of earned income. It does not include investment income, which I would guess would be more realistic of the hypothetical you describe. I have no intentions of having any "earned" income. My income is ... Read More
RENTAL CONTRACT
I believe that having a lawyer review the proposed contract is money very well spent. He doesn't really need to do a separate contract for you, but a careful review of the proposed contract may save issues later. Once the contract has been signed, ... Read More
Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports by gardener1
Interesting article from the conservative and very mainstream CNN. Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports 3,000 Americans around the world renounced their citizenship last year. Meet five U.S. citizens who have given up their passports -- ...
I never said I was renouncing. Noone in this thread has said they're renouncing. You are the one in this thread that seems intent on making all the noise and accusations regarding tax cheats and that being the reason for renouncment. A one equals ... Read More
Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports by gardener1
Interesting article from the conservative and very mainstream CNN. Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports 3,000 Americans around the world renounced their citizenship last year. Meet five U.S. citizens who have given up their passports -- ...
Do you even read some of the drivel you post? Not one post in this thread has contained any comment, or advocated, to not follow the law. You implied that those renouncing were doing so because they are "tax cheats". Pretty broad brush with which ... Read More
Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports by gardener1
Interesting article from the conservative and very mainstream CNN. Why expats are ditching their U.S. passports 3,000 Americans around the world renounced their citizenship last year. Meet five U.S. citizens who have given up their passports -- ...
So I'm nothing more than a "tax cheat" because I feel it unfair to pay taxes on income earned outside the US when I am not a resident of the US... one of the ONLY TWO countries (the other being Eritrea) in the world to have such tax law? ... Read More
Drivers license validity by Sponytom
Can one drive a car in Ecuador using an European drivers license...? Are there any rules to be followed in that matter...? I have read about expats getting their licenses swapped for Ecuadorian ones... Any info much appreciated... Cheers... :top:
[Moderated] Yes, I know personally two individuals that were denied entry due to previous Visa violations, but they had not traveled to Japan, Taipei, Hong Kong, or other non-Ecuadorian countries. Perhaps the results would have been different at ... Read More
Drivers license validity by Sponytom
Can one drive a car in Ecuador using an European drivers license...? Are there any rules to be followed in that matter...? I have read about expats getting their licenses swapped for Ecuadorian ones... Any info much appreciated... Cheers... :top:
Agree... go for it. mackbutter, I've kept quiet through all of this (and other threads you've posted in), but I just HAVE to know... how do plan on staying in Ecuador for 1-2 years, without getting a residency visa? There is no visa that allows ... Read More
Visa problems by Anthony Bassak
My name is Anthony Bassak. I live in Northern Illinois and the closest embassy for Ecuador is in Chicago and they never answer their telephone and if they do they immediately hang up the receiver. I will keep tryin Has anyone ever heard of Patrick ...
Just thought I'd post what was in Gringo Tree/Cuenca High Life ... Read More
Netflix and Roku by msantiago1256
Hi, I was pleasantly surprised to find that netflix is in Ecuador! I knew they where expanding and it was only a matter of time but they are already here and the selection is almost better (in terms of quality if not quantity) than back home. Has ...
The wireless portion of your router doesn't care what country it's in. It's talking to your devices. The other side (what connects to the modem is just plain old LAN (10/100 mbs) international standard (which is actually true for the wireless ... Read More
Rents in Cuenca
I'm with you CB. Just using numbers from Zillow, our house value is $247K, with a suggested rent of $1,500. I believe Zillow numbers. Just being a realist, I sure as heck wouldn't rent my place for $2,470.00 per month, why would anybody else :-) Read More
Power of Attorney by Howardofocal
Has anyone ever given a Special Power Of Attorney to someone in Cuenca in order to obtain a resident visa before coming to Ecuador? I know it can be done but I'm wondering what the 'gotchas' might be.
Howard, I do not personally know Maite, but she has a large number of supporters in various bloggy things (facebook Ecuador Expats included). This is in no way an endorsement, but she is known and seems to get a lot of positive results. Read More
Conflicting visa info by Howardofocal
It is unbelievable how much conflicting information there is regarding the visa process. I'm trying to put together my best cut at a detailed list of requirements and have run into an interesting "catch-22" Several web sites say you must enter ...
You go Howard. It sounds like quite the adventure. Your detailed description of the process was well worth the time for others that may have to "jump the hoop". Without adding it all up myself, what was the total time "start to finish"?. Read More
Visa problems by Anthony Bassak
My name is Anthony Bassak. I live in Northern Illinois and the closest embassy for Ecuador is in Chicago and they never answer their telephone and if they do they immediately hang up the receiver. I will keep tryin Has anyone ever heard of Patrick ...
Anthony, I am only speaking (typing) based on my gut reaction. When I got here, I already had a contract in place with my attorney (I advocate immigration attorneys) for almost 6 months, as I didn't have a firm "move-to" date. My selection of ... Read More
Conflicting visa info by Howardofocal
It is unbelievable how much conflicting information there is regarding the visa process. I'm trying to put together my best cut at a detailed list of requirements and have run into an interesting "catch-22" Several web sites say you must enter ...
Well said, and I just spent an hour writing further recommendations for Amber, and then closed my browser without posting it, so here is the abbreviated version :-) I am tired of people whining about how everyone is to blame except themselves... ... 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], ...
Have a great time. I'll be getting into Cuenca at 9:00 AM on Saturday. Hope I'll be able to shed my parka, arctic snow boots, thermal underwear, electric sox and that the ice will be thawed from my mustache and eyebrows by then :-) Now just go play ... Read More
Cuenca's Nicer Neighbourhoods by mackbutter
Hello. I'm from Vancouver, Canada. I have decided to move to Cuenca. I'm very excited. :D I have lived in Thailand, Japan, the Philippines and the U.S. for 2 years each and have learned that I definitely like to live in a modern style ...
mackbutter, I'm going to have to loudly agree with gardener1 about not just "blindly" moving to Ecuador... in fact, I'm begging you. Just the differences between Cuenca and Salinas/La Libertad and the (in my opinion impossible task) of trying to ... Read More
Conflicting visa info by Howardofocal
It is unbelievable how much conflicting information there is regarding the visa process. I'm trying to put together my best cut at a detailed list of requirements and have run into an interesting "catch-22" Several web sites say you must enter ...
Here we go Howard and Janet. This information is solely based on what has transpired over the last 3 months of my journey through the maze. I have received my 9-II Visa (investor [$25K] and my Cedula). In Ecuador, tomorrow could be different :-) I ... Read More
Birth certificates for residency visa application by footsoldier
For 9-II residency visa requirements, the Ecuadorian government's official web page only mentioned marriage certificate but did not mention birth certificates. Can anyone confirm it is required to submit notarized and legalized birth certificates ...
Neil is spot on (as always). I got my visa last Thursday. Six days later (today) I got my Cedula. One thing I would caution, to replace a Passport (and vis a vie) the visa would be a pain in the posterior, to lose and replace a Cedula would be akin ... Read More
So interested in Cuenca! by thesherins
Hello My wife and I are coming to Ecuador this summer to check things out before we retire in 2 years (teachers and coaches). Can anyone tell me where we can meet expats to get to know the real Cuenca scene? Is there a local hangout? Gracias Marty
I am very aware of black mold. In the Northwest it is a very large problem. I was simply stating that a mold problem is not cured by location, but by proper preventative measures. No, not bleach and scrubbing, but preventing damp conditions to begin ... Read More
So interested in Cuenca! by thesherins
Hello My wife and I are coming to Ecuador this summer to check things out before we retire in 2 years (teachers and coaches). Can anyone tell me where we can meet expats to get to know the real Cuenca scene? Is there a local hangout? Gracias Marty
Umm... there is mold everywhere in the world. It really boils down to prevention and keeping clean and dry. I've been here three months and have not seen a speck of mold in my apartment, but I keep things clean and aired out. I would also warn you ... Read More
Where to have your fingerprints taken in Cuenca by Nards Barley
In case anyone needs to have their fingerprints taken, it can be done at a police station out by the airport just off of Avenida Espana. See the address at the bottom of this post. I was not charged for the service. The form you need is FD-258 - ...
Basically, it is a document affixed to the document which was notarized/certified. The apostille is generated by the Secretary of State, of the State which issued and notarized/certified the document. Sort of like the Secretary of State of say ... Read More
Birth certificates for residency visa application by footsoldier
For 9-II residency visa requirements, the Ecuadorian government's official web page only mentioned marriage certificate but did not mention birth certificates. Can anyone confirm it is required to submit notarized and legalized birth certificates ...
Submit them for what? They were not required, nor submitted when I turned in my paperwork for my 9-II last month (10/14). They are required for the cedula. As Neil stated above it doesn't hurt to be over prepared. No big deal when I handed ... Read More
Where is the Immigration office?
Don't really remember where I got it. Here is a link to the full map. app.box.com/s/gsq86s8eu7xp4o4zm7eb symo Read More
Where is the Immigration office?
I was just there turning in my paperwork a couple of weeks ago. I've attached a link to a pdf map of the location. It's a couple blocks South of the South end of Parque de Madre. I'd just tell the taxi to take you to the South side of the parque on ... Read More
Ready or not here we come
I'm sure to get some jabs for this, but after you find Parque Calderon (which should be the first thing on any list), I would go across Louis Cordero (that will be the street on the East side of the parque) and jump on the tour bus. 5 bucks per ... 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 new best friend starting next week :D symo Read More
Birth certificates for residency visa application by footsoldier
For 9-II residency visa requirements, the Ecuadorian government's official web page only mentioned marriage certificate but did not mention birth certificates. Can anyone confirm it is required to submit notarized and legalized birth certificates ...
Carlos Heredia has been very good at answering questions for me. I'm arriving on next Monday and am using Dr. Heredia as my attorney. His contact information is shown at seclem.com/index.php/contacts. symo Read More
Ever lived in Seattle? by Howardofocal
I hear the weather in Cuenca is very similar to that in Seattle. Any related comments would be greatly appreciated.
Joe, I use those sites more for annual averages. Using Accuweather, they are showing 52F right now with today hi of 62F tonight low 49F and high tomorrow of 70F. Indeed right now World Weather is showing that it's 36F. No way, no how. Sure it could ... Read More