j600rr
American citizen
Forum posts
579
About me
American
Lives in Baltimore
Registration: 14 July 2013
LAS OLAS close to Bahia by berenicehutton
Looking on reviews for this new development close to Bahia LAS OLAS?
Very Unfortunate. Hopefully things will turn around for the better. Perhaps this was one, or is one of those projects that will have no middle ground. Either a spectacular success, or a spectacular bust. Kind of looks like a bust at this point in ... Read More
Re-Legalizing the Casinos of Ecuador by cccmedia
Five years ago, [i]El Supremo[/i] convinced the voters of Ecuador to close all 32 casinos nationwide. Only 46 percent of those voting on the referendum issue supported the casino ban, yet that was a narrow plurality and enough to shutter the ...
That is a great point. I have myself in the past questioned Ecuador, and other developing nations on their lack of economic diversity. It is easier said than done. As you pointed out, it's not like these nations aren't trying to diversify. ... Read More
Homophobia In Ecuador by Coxhere
How homophobic, generally speaking, is Ecuador? What about homophobia in urban areas vs. rural areas of the country? I ask because I'm wondering how "open" one can be in Ecuadorian society without fearing for one's life. Thanks ...
I am sure others that live in Ecuador who have much more knowledge will chime in. My Ecuadorian brother-in-law's brother is homosexual, and he never seems to have many problems. He lives in Quito which is a big city. Big of course depending on ... Read More
AFS Son in Ecuador - How to wire $ by worriedmom
17 yo Son is living in Ecuador for a year going to high school. Lost his wallet. 1. Any tips on reputable services to wire him $. He is in Latacunga. 2. Also, I want to send him a package. Any tips on how to send him a package. The parents ...
If you use Western Union be sure that the name is exactly as it appears on his passport. In the past I have had trouble when some funds were sent via Western Union because of things like my passport has only my middle initial, and the wire would be ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Ecuador is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Ecuador? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
Will be interesting to find out what your observations will be. Wouldn't it be the vernal equinox in Ecuador? Would imagine that there would be a correlation between that time of year, and more rain. Read More
The Vision For Ecuador's Silicon Valley by cccmedia
The problematic oil industry has exposed Ecuador's need to develop its other industries -- agriculture, seafood production, tourism and its Silicon Valley component. Silicon Valley? In Ecuador? What?? Perhaps you haven't heard about the ...
My brother-in-law who has a degree, or phd I guess in computer science had high hopes for this project, but he said that it was basically nothing more than a good marketing scheme, and that it will never happen. Looking back on it he thinks there ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Then we will have to agree to disagree :) Would be a pretty dull, boring, plain world if everyone agreed on every subject. Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Having a solid achievable plan, and sticking to it is probably half the battle. You seem to have a really strong plan in place. Would argue with you about your take on motivation. We could very well disagree, and not trying to get into a right or ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
To be fluent, and fluent at a very high level I would tend to think that 10 yrs. is probably a realistic estimate. Though would think if you kept up your same pace that probably in a 3-5 yr. time period you would have a pretty firm grasp, and speak ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Curious how you came up with 1100 hours? Am aware of Anders Ericcson research indicating that it takes about 10,000 hrs. of deliberate practice to master a skill, and that 10,000 hrs. is not set in stone, but more of a general guidline/reference ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Curious how you came up with 1100 hours? Am aware of Anders Ericcson research indicating that it takes about 10,000 hrs. of deliberate practice to master a skill, and that 10,000 hrs. is not set in stone, but more of a general guidline/reference ... Read More
lost and found by russelleaton
I recently found a wallet full of banking cards and some car keys. They were lying on the road. I traced the owner through facebook and simply offered to return them in good faith. I was flabbergasted by the response. The owner suspected me of being ...
That was an unfortunate response to your kindness Russell. Probably had more to do with the nature of the lost belongings. Imagine if you were mugged, and some stranger was now offering to return what you thought was stolen from you. Frome your ... Read More
Interest rates, accounts, etc. by Guest098872
Hello, Was wondering if someone could provide some information about the interest rates that are in Ecuador or direct me to a website. Let's say an individual moves to Ecuador with an investors visa and puts their $25,000 in the bank, could ...
I am resuscitating this thread because a story that broke this weekend is a cautionary tale for Expats who might get greedy seeking high interest rates in South America. MTCoin Banco del Futuro was offering rates between 13 and 22 percent to Cuenca ... Read More
“Cuenca never wanted to attract retirees,” by Nards Barley
said Ana Paulina Crespo, the director of international relations for the municipality. “In fact, we’re facing lots of problems over how to deal with a phenomenon that we aren’t responsible for creating.” “Cuencanos are ...
Isn't it more of a necessity for Europeans to speak, or have a basic level of proficiency in several languages? If you took the U.S., broke a bunch of different states into countries with different languages, and then put them at war ... Read More
IESS (Ecuadorian Social Security) Costs Increasing by vsimple
Nards Barley, posted a link to a CuencaHighLife article which stated that IESS (essentially public health insurance) will cost as much of 17.6% of an expat's income. This is developing news, but it looks like Ecuador for many people will be a ...
Good point. Because I am a single guy, I tend to make the mistake of always looking at things from that perspective. Yes, a family would be a different situation. Read More
IESS (Ecuadorian Social Security) Costs Increasing by vsimple
Nards Barley, posted a link to a CuencaHighLife article which stated that IESS (essentially public health insurance) will cost as much of 17.6% of an expat's income. This is developing news, but it looks like Ecuador for many people will be a ...
Was going to ask what the general cost for private insurance was in Ecuador? Thanks for the breakdown CCC. Would seem unless private coverage spikes up - that it would be the way to go. Assuming the individual is in relatively decent health. Read More
Peripatetic Soul Investigated Ecuador .. and Decided Not to Go by cccmedia
Congratulations, Peripatetic Soul. You investigated Ecuador .. participated with integrity over many months on this forum .. and made a decision. You decided it wouldn't make sense for you to uproot from central Virginia. You are and have ...
How does that famous quote go? "There are three kind of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics." Read More
Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador? by SheriFreedom
Is Radiation from Fukushima affecting Ecuador waters yet? Early on I looked at currents and it looked like it would take a long time, plus the Humboldt current coming up from the south should help. Is anyone testing the waters and/or the fish?
TEPCO and the Japanese government took incompetence, stupidity, and corruption to a whole new level with the Fukushima disaster. Putting a facility near coastline with a history of tsunami's reaks of stupidity. By the way more than 22,000 were ... Read More
Criteria for choosing Ecuador by vsimple
This is by no means a comprehensive list of considerations that one should think about before moving to Ecuador or any new city/country but it’s a start to making one’s own criteria. Add any criteria you may have to this list which also ...
Think that the majority here call IL the same thing. Read More
Ask the expert whether he prefers Ecuador or Colombia by Nards Barley
Ok, CCmedia, I have been reading some of your stuff on the Colombian forum today while sick with the flu and thought the peeps needed a thread to ask questions and to compare and contrast these two countries.
Wall Street Journal had an article Colombia this morning. This one wasn't the most positive. Farmers are planting the coca leaf crop (made to use cocaine) at a rapid pace. About at 2001 levels with the amount of sq. miles planted with the ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Jade and vsimple are right. Most the blame, or all should be put on me. Have a tendency to stray from the topics :/ You guys need to scold me from time to time when my mind starts wandering. Really don't mean to stray. Have to work on staying ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
The Blue Jays drew really good crowds when they opened the new ball park in the late 80's for a few years didn't they? Plus they had some really good teams in the 90's which am sure helped with attendance. Who can forget Joe Carter's ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Have recently started listening solely to a spanish radio talk show that I get on the car radio. Think that just being able to concentrate on the words, and what is being said has made a big difference. My comprehension of spanish is fairly decent. ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Cool. Figured we were good. Things have kind of taken a life of their own since my one post. My general intent was hopefully not to offend anyone, but to point to the fact that I think at times people become preoccupied too much with weather, and ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Absolutely, not arguing that point one bit. It's not an either or scenario. It's not a zero sum scenario. Because I enjoy my life in the U.S. and Maryland, it doesn't imply that I can't enjoy Ecuador, the people, the culture, and the ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Used to read his blog, which I no longer have a link to, but remember in his last entry, or one of the last ones, he mentioned the treatment wasn't going so well. He stopped posting on here shortly after. That was probably several years ago. ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
You have a great outlook vsimple. It sounds like what you have is a strong social structure? Would that be correct? Having a strong social structure is very important to humans (for most people). When I talk about, culture, or traditions, what it ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
There was a member BobH. Anyone know what happened to Bob? Know he was having some health problems. Anyway, he retired to the Philippines, and wound up finding the heat a bit overwhelming himself. Moved to Ecuador, and he really enjoyed it. Did wind ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Hey vsimple. I get what where you're coming from, and the point your making. Hopefully I am not coming across as confrontational, or as trying to create some kind of never ending argument. Only hoping that some people will look at things from ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
So even if on a scale of 100 you give weather 30 points. That would still mean that 70 points (a pretty large majority) would be for other reasons. If I understand what you were saying correctly. Certainly Ecuador has been a very good fit for you. ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Absolutely all valid points. Am not trying to diminish impact weather , and especially economics plays in decision making. In a roundabout way, the point I was trying to make is that there are also many other factors besides weather that can make a ... Read More
Ask the expert whether he prefers Ecuador or Colombia by Nards Barley
Ok, CCmedia, I have been reading some of your stuff on the Colombian forum today while sick with the flu and thought the peeps needed a thread to ask questions and to compare and contrast these two countries.
Do you have any take on the resale value of condos? Read a few years ago that older condos don't sell well in Colombia. Have no idea how accurate that was. Article gave the impression that everyone in the buyers market wanted something new. ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Unfortunately they can't manufacture any runs. Is why they never go far in the post-season. Starting pitching should be a lot better this year. Would take anything said about Jimenez with a grain of salt. One heck of a nice guy, and a good human ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Isn't there more to life than just living someplace with the ideal weather? Not directing this at you, or trying to start a debate ccc. People always talk, or market a place as having the perfect weather, or live like a king on virtually no ... Read More
mental health issues by Okie dokie sue
Are there any mental health clinics in EC ? I need to find a clinic or doctor that will prescribe refills for my psych meds. I also take meds for arthritis and hormone replacement. I am 41 yr female on disability for depression. Does anyone have ...
Have mentioned before that I have a family member with mental illness. There is still a lot of ignorance in the developed countries about mental health as well, or at least in the U.S. The treatment and education has really advanced in the last ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
Definitely not a cheap place to live. Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
That's what air conditioning is for :) All joking aside. That is a good point about the humidity. Have probably gotten used to it being from Maryland. The summers are hit or miss, but not unusual to have some summers where heat, and hunidity ... Read More
Why we decided not to move to Ecuador after two trips there by gardener1
Thinking to immigrate, We spent a month in Ecuador in Nov. 2012 - Quito/Cuenca/Manta and other points in between. We spent a month in Ecuador in Jan. 2017 Guayaquil/Cuenca/Montanita and other points in between. We are not moving to Ecuador. The ...
As long as we are throwing out different places. How about Chattanooga Tn? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vp7t7-kuGXs Probably not the first place one would think of for retirement, but cost of living there is still pretty reasonable. Have pretty ... Read More
Speaking Spanish in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Spanish is essential for a successful integration in Ecuador. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Spanish? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
Agree with the above vsimple. We all learn in different ways. For instance I take more of the approach that you mention above. Have never done well in a classroom setting. Which is probably why I was such a terrible student, and barely graduated ... Read More
Safety by scubalynda
:cheers: Object: Safety Where can a single woman in the mid 50s could safely move to? Considering that I have multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and have to use a cane occasionally. A place where they have pretty much everything on hand or nearby. I ...
If you type in (single ladies) in the search box a whole bunch of threads will come up that should have a good bit of the information you are looking for. Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Interesting article on the pro/con arguments for returning to a gold standard with a brief history of the u.s. monetary systems at the bottom. http://gold-standard.procon.org Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Don't disagree with any of the above AMDG, but I'll play devil's advocate, and ask what type of monetary system would you recommend for society? Certainly there is some major flaws to a fiat currency, and I don't pretend to have the ... Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Thanks for that link gardener. Knew there were problems, and things were probably going to get ugly, or uglier, but looks like unfortunately they are going to get real, real ugly. And of course, the poor that this is all supposed to be for will be ... Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Yep, would say my question has been answered. Though Nards did say he's actually seen signs for it. No one else seems to have even seen any mention of it. It's hard to beat the ease, and simplicity of using cash. 1,5,10,20,50,100, and pretty ... Read More
Rediscovering Books
The ones you can touch, and feel in your hands. This isn't related to Ecuador in anyway, and is probably an irrelevant topic. Really only me thinking out loud. With everything online, including most books via kindle etc. these days, has anyone ... Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Would appear there is not much interest in the currency at this point in time from the article you linked Nards. On a side note has anyone been paying attention to what India has done with their currency? That's turning into a pretty big ... Read More
Electronic money & will it eventually devalue your dollar? by britmick
I saw the below link/ad on the BBC & wondered if anyone had looked into this new idea & how it will effect the dollar in your pocket &/or bank account? Also it seems that Ecuador is BILLIONS in debt to the Chinese & it's getting ...
Has there been any new news on the digital currency in Ecuador? Tried searching online, and couldn't find any current news/updates. Had completely forgotten about this subject on my last visit to Ecuador, but there wasn't anyplace I went ... Read More
Las Olas Ecuador development by rastadan
Looking for information regarding the Las Olas Ecuador development near Bahia de Caraquez. Has anyone been on site? How does the project look so far? Please share your impressions of the development plan and any observations you may have.
Very true words. As humans we are emotional. Emotions play a huge role in our life, and in our decision making. Sometimes for the better, but often times to our detriment. One of the dangers of emotions is sometimes we get tunnel vision, and only ... Read More
Mirador San Jose. by Dackombe
I am moving to Mirador next year and would appreciate any comments on the following. a. Taxi availability and costs, to say Manta and Puerto Cayo. b. Local coach costs to Manta. c. Eating : What is available ( type of food, costs etc ). d. ...
Thanks for the translation Molari :top: Read More
needing builder and insurance contacts by Mike Machaskee
Hello all...have not used this forum much, but really appreciate all the great info I have read since getting on here. My wife and I have a piece of property in Canoa that we hope to build on in 2 to 4 years. I will be in country the 12th through ...
Interesting point. Have often wondered how many buildings really meet building standards? Not just referring to Ecuador, but all over the world. Thirld World/Developing Nations probably wouldn't be a surprise if many buildings don't meet ... Read More
Las Olas Ecuador development by rastadan
Looking for information regarding the Las Olas Ecuador development near Bahia de Caraquez. Has anyone been on site? How does the project look so far? Please share your impressions of the development plan and any observations you may have.
For some reason can't quote any of the post from truthbtold, but that is some new, and interseting insight about the water issue. That has been a concern brought up in many previous posts. Read More
Mirador San Jose. by Dackombe
I am moving to Mirador next year and would appreciate any comments on the following. a. Taxi availability and costs, to say Manta and Puerto Cayo. b. Local coach costs to Manta. c. Eating : What is available ( type of food, costs etc ). d. ...
Am going to be of no help to your inquiry. Sorry about that. May I ask if you are moving to the project Mirador San Jose? Bit confused if there is actually a town in Ecuador named Mirador San Jose, or is that the developments name? Only asking ... Read More
Where and why do you have a bank account in Ecuador? by Nards Barley
When I arrived to Ecuador, I needed to deposit $25,000 for the purpose of my resident visa application. I decided to make that deposit at Banco Pichincha because I read a recommendation somewhere by another expat. In order to make that ...
Can't help you on any bank recommendations in Ecuador Nards, but you may want to consider only putting some money into a short term account for 2017. Feds had a rate hike today, and sounds like there is a good possibility for several more in ... Read More
Anybody living in Vilcabamba or Loja? by ActionMgt
You never see anything posted about Vilcabamba or Loja on this forum. Just wondering if anybody lives there that could tell me what it's like, if they like it there, and what the availability might be for renting a 2 bedroom small house with 2 ...
Think Lizzy-Lulu meant josephk, and not richardk. Josephk has not been on this board in quite some time, which is unfortunate, because he had a lot of great information. Know that in his last post, or one of his last posts on this forum he had left, ... Read More
Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Old clichés die hard, as the saying goes... and living in Ecuador can generate lots of misconceptions in the eyes of the people. What are the most common misconceptions about the expat lifestyle in Ecuador? What are the ...
I obviously haven't spent enough time in Quito to make any kind of informed decision, but do you think it's more of a generational thing? For instance. My Ecuadorian brother-in-law, and his brother are not religious, but their mother is ... Read More
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Quito
http://www.teampredador.com.ec/index.php/tutorials-mainmenu-48/quito Might be what you are looking for, or at least they would probably be able to point you in the right direction. Read More
Why expats may want to consider owning dual-sim cellphones by Nards Barley
Based on the recent news in another thread that I can import a cellphone through the mail, I am weighing the whether I want to fork up an extra $13 for a dual sim phone. [url=https://www.cnet.com/news/why-you-want-a-dual-sim-phone/]According to ...
Not sure if this is relevant, or going off the topic Nards, but Whatsapp is a pretty good option these days. My sister urged me to downlod it on my phone when I came down. Was able to stay in contact with her while in Ecuador using that, and also my ... Read More
Top Mail and Package Forwarding Services for U.S. Expats by Nards Barley
No, I am neither a moderator, expert or adviser. I decided to create this thread because I have been thinking about seeing if there are new services on the internet that may be better or cheaper than what I currently have, and I thought I would ...
Yep, just ask my sister. Bet between family and friends we have probably brought in at least 10-15 large suitcases of things. In all fairness to her, about 99 percent of the things has been for her babies. Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
The coffee for breakfast at Hotel Eugenia would not be to your liking peripatetic_soul. In all honesty as much as I liked the hotel, the coffee was not very good. Vsimple mentioned Sweet&Coffee. That was the cafe I was talking about that I went. ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Forgot to mention in my review the wi-fi. Other than cutting off for a few seconds once, the connection, and speed was pretty good. My last night there youtube ocassionally wouldn't download, but other than that there were no problems. Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Unfortunately didn't have a chance. Will definitely put that on my itenerary for next trip. Had a great time, and enjoyed the area, but between spending a good deal of time at my one sisters who lives there, and the other amount of time trying ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Probably should have been more specific. The breakfast buffet wasn't what I'd consider Ecuadorian per se. Was pretty much what any American would be used to for breakfast. Had cereal, eggs, a few types of breads, pineapple, and watermelon ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Back from short trip. Quick update on Hotel Eugenia (from my perspective). Overall was quite happy with the hotel. During my stay everyone at the front desk was friendly, helpful, and spoke good English. Room had tv (may or may not be important to ... Read More
Top Checking Accounts for U.S. Expats Living Abroad by Nards Barley
The other day, after noting that Chase bank had charged me $12 service charge for not having maintained the minimum balance I decided to google the phrase used in the subject line in this thread. Of course, If I had a monthly pension deposited in ...
Just Created an account at Charles Schwab online. I activated a VPN on my computer before going starting the process, and for my U.S. Global Mail address in Houston I had to remove the letters "PMB" since they flagged this as a p.o. box ... Read More
Carolina Park Renovation by vsimple
Carolina Park is a beautiful 165 acre park in the business district of Quito. For the past several months they’ve been renovating it and it is coming out great. Initially I thought it was a limited renovation but it’s a massive ...
Nice to hear you enjoyed the park, and yeah it's like that every weekend, more so on Sundays and holidays.If was living here full time, it would definitely be a place that I would go for my daily walk, and later would probably find a nice place ... Read More
Carolina Park Renovation by vsimple
Carolina Park is a beautiful 165 acre park in the business district of Quito. For the past several months they’ve been renovating it and it is coming out great. Initially I thought it was a limited renovation but it’s a massive ...
Will agree with all the high praises vsimple has given the park. Have no before renovation reference like vsimple does. Went there for the first time today with my two sisters, two baby nieces, brother-in-law, and his mother. It was absolutely ... Read More
Top Checking Accounts for U.S. Expats Living Abroad by Nards Barley
The other day, after noting that Chase bank had charged me $12 service charge for not having maintained the minimum balance I decided to google the phrase used in the subject line in this thread. Of course, If I had a monthly pension deposited in ...
I know at one point in time Charles Schwab charged no fees, and also any atm fees were refunded at the end of the month. Was thinking of opening an account for international travel, but never did. That was a few years ago. Don't know if they are ... Read More
Hola Cuencanites, we need a room fit for smokers by gardener1
We're going to be in Cuenca approximately December/January and are looking for rooms fit for smokers. Such rooms needs to have a balcony/patio/outdoor access. We're happy to smoke outside, we just need direct access from the actual room to ...
Pretty sure you can sign up for Airbnb with just an e-mail account. Haven't ever used airbnb myself, but my one sister has used it several times, and think she's just used an e-mail account. Don't think she has a facebook account. I ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Thanks Jade :top: @ccc Thanks for the write up on Plaza Foch. Sounds really nice, and don't want to give the impression that I'm not interested at all in Plaza Foch. Is more a case of my schedule is going to in large part be dictated by a ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Word must be out that Nards Barley recommends hotel vieja cuba. Was sold out for the dates I wanted. Was surprised that there was quite a few places sold out for my travel dates. Is Plaza Foch just that popular of a place? Anyway decided to take my ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Can't beat the price of that. Really liked that first place you linked Nards. My other sister is traveling with me, but as long as she's ok with it, think will try to get a reservation at the first place you suggested. Thnks again for the ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations? by j600rr
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ...
Thanks Nards. Looks great! And think my sisters place may be almost right around the corner from there, but won't swear to it. Out of curiosity, did you try the food there? Know you're always giving reviews from different places. Not a big ... Read More
Plaza Foch Hotel Recommendations?
Anyone have any recommendations for in/around the Plaza Foch area? Will be down in a few weeks, and sister recommended this area, as it's fairly close to where she is living. Can see there is no shortage of places to stay, but curious if anyone ... Read More
Did you know that most of Ecuador is available on Google street view? by gardener1
For people who would like to get a feel for places in Ecuador, you can drive the google car around using google street view. It's pretty neat. As far as I can tell all of the currently available google street view was done before the ...
I saw this article in a newsletter I receive and thought it would be a wonderful idea for all the dusty, vacant areas of Salinas just beyond the condo buildings (and of course elsewhere in ... Read More
Powerful 7.8 Earthquake Rocks Ecuador’s Coast -- Hundreds Are Dead by cccmedia
Associated Press and CNN for Latin America are reporting: An earthquake of 7.8 magnitude centered in or around Esmeraldas Province near Ecuador’s Pacific Coast caused deaths, damage and panic in EC’s central coastal region tonight, ...
Quito has actually had some pretty devastating earthquakes in the past. http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/earthquake-destroys-landmarks-in-quito-ecuador Granted, it's not a yearly occurrence, and probably shouldn't be a major ... Read More
Finding the perfect place in Ecuador and Moving by RobinJoel
Joel and I just got back from a few weeks in southern Ecuador. It was our first trip there after lots of research. We have decided for sure that is where we want to buy a house and live during our retirement - now! We love the Malacos and ...
If y’all make buying property in Ecuador ‘Job #1” upon arrival, you may encounter a much bigger problem than moving a second time -- namely, attempting to re-sell in a skewed national real-estate market. Even in EC areas outside ... Read More
Is Ecuador clean? About Water quality? Anyone from Cotacachi? by KLC56
Buenos Dias, my husband and I are considering moving to Ecuador but are really up in the air about any particular destination. I have some questions and am hoping that those of you who have already made the move might be willing to help me out. We ...
Not sure Loja would be a fit if medical access is high on your list. Hopefully someone from that area can chime in, and correct me if I'm wrong. Can't find the link/topic, but it was from Josephk, who is a member on this site (though ... Read More
International Living magazine subscription? by AnneinTexas
Would it be in my best interest to subscribe to International Living magazine if I am just beginning my research for retiring to Costa Rica or Ecuador??
In the past, by in large, the general consensus around here has probably not been pro IL. CCC brings up a really good point about them mentioning some interesting places that you probably never have heard of. Probably most people who are thinking of ... Read More
GETTING A DRIVERS LICENSE IN ECUADOR 2016 (updated information) by EcuaAssist
Getting a Drivers License in Ecuador The topic of drivers licenses has been a recurrent topic in the last months. Since January 11th, 2016, the requisite of having to assist to driving lessons for three weeks, and approved it through theoretical ...
Put this in the category of things that sometimes happen in Ecuador, and many developing countries. My sister went through the whole process. Had all the paperwork, and everything else in order. Went to take the test, and not 100% sure the exact ... Read More
GETTING A DRIVERS LICENSE IN ECUADOR 2016 (updated information) by EcuaAssist
Getting a Drivers License in Ecuador The topic of drivers licenses has been a recurrent topic in the last months. Since January 11th, 2016, the requisite of having to assist to driving lessons for three weeks, and approved it through theoretical ...
Slightly off topic, but for anyone possibly needing something important shipped into Ecuador, I sent off my sisters document last Friday, and she picked it up on Monday. Was an outrageous price, but got there in a couple days with no problems. Read More
GETTING A DRIVERS LICENSE IN ECUADOR 2016 (updated information) by EcuaAssist
Getting a Drivers License in Ecuador The topic of drivers licenses has been a recurrent topic in the last months. Since January 11th, 2016, the requisite of having to assist to driving lessons for three weeks, and approved it through theoretical ...
This would not be relevant for you anymore ccc, but if you are in Ecuador, and did not get a copy of your driving record apostilled before moving, there is an easy option. Would need a couple things. If you still have a valid U.S. address, and a ... Read More
Powerful 7.8 Earthquake Rocks Ecuador’s Coast -- Hundreds Are Dead by cccmedia
Associated Press and CNN for Latin America are reporting: An earthquake of 7.8 magnitude centered in or around Esmeraldas Province near Ecuador’s Pacific Coast caused deaths, damage and panic in EC’s central coastal region tonight, ...
Some video footage of what looks like the inside of an office building. Place is shaking, and swaying like crazy. Has to be scary as hell. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU8glc_SI-0 Read More
Powerful 7.8 Earthquake Rocks Ecuador’s Coast -- Hundreds Are Dead by cccmedia
Associated Press and CNN for Latin America are reporting: An earthquake of 7.8 magnitude centered in or around Esmeraldas Province near Ecuador’s Pacific Coast caused deaths, damage and panic in EC’s central coastal region tonight, ...
Rescuers pull a 72 year old man from rubble alive after 13 days. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3568171/Rescuers-pull-72-year-old-man-ALIVE-rubble-13-days-massive-Ecuador-earthquake.html Read More
2016: Does It Make Any Sense For Joel & Robin to Buy a Beach Condo? by cccmedia
Joel and Robin from Kansas City just posted on the New Members thread. They want to rent and eventually buy a condo at the Ecuador oceanfront. Frankly, given the events of the last two months, I would counsel anybody [b]to rent only, not buy[/b] ...
This site may be helpful. Has a history of the largest earthquakes along the Ecuador Coast. Can also play around a bit, and search for earthquakes through South America. Am not a geologist, nor a geography major, but from just looking at the maps ... Read More
2016: Does It Make Any Sense For Joel & Robin to Buy a Beach Condo? by cccmedia
Joel and Robin from Kansas City just posted on the New Members thread. They want to rent and eventually buy a condo at the Ecuador oceanfront. Frankly, given the events of the last two months, I would counsel anybody [b]to rent only, not buy[/b] ...
That could be a major research project. You might start with the Scientific American article posted online titled "Ecuador Quake is on the Fault That Generates Monster Shakers” and its link to the U.S. Geological Survey. ... Read More
2016: Does It Make Any Sense For Joel & Robin to Buy a Beach Condo? by cccmedia
Joel and Robin from Kansas City just posted on the New Members thread. They want to rent and eventually buy a condo at the Ecuador oceanfront. Frankly, given the events of the last two months, I would counsel anybody [b]to rent only, not buy[/b] ...
In light of the recent tragedy in Ecuador. Happened to stumble upon this article from Scientific ... Read More
Vegetarian Diet - Must Have's or Not? by peripatetic_soul
Hello, Now that Medicare has increased, the college is downsizing, and rent increases are out of control with all kinds of ludicrous extra fees, I'm seriously contemplating a move to Ecuador which I have been researching for over a year (thanks ...
Where do you get your grains? Someone you know, or do you just order them from a place like amazon? Definitely interested in trying kefir. Anyway, just talked to sister the other day. She says there is actually a nice selection of restaurants that ... Read More
organized running events in Quito by hilary78
Hey Everyone, I'm new...I just moved to Ecuador from Denver, CO in January. I've been traveling since then and will settle down in Tumbaco to teach English in a couple of weeks. I was an avid runner before I came here. But, with my ...
Might be what you are looking for. http://marathons.ahotu.com/calendar/ecuador Read More
House Hunters International, Ecuador - on HGTV by gardener1
I like this show (guilty pleasure) There was just a new episode aired tonight about a couple moving to the Esmereldas. Their budget was $300. Interesting episode and some unusually down-to-earth ...
So they won't list some places because of safety concerns? That's probably fair, but then how can they list Guatemala? It does have one of the highest homicide rates in the world. Colombia has made a ton of progress over the last decade or ... Read More
House Hunters International, Ecuador - on HGTV by gardener1
I like this show (guilty pleasure) There was just a new episode aired tonight about a couple moving to the Esmereldas. Their budget was $300. Interesting episode and some unusually down-to-earth ...
Yeah, I think most of the show is fiction, but entertaining as you say. Here's another one getting started that I've enjoyed: http://www.hgtv.com/shows/caribbean-lifeThink I read somewhere that they have already decided on a property ... Read More
Vegetarian Diet - Must Have's or Not? by peripatetic_soul
Hello, Now that Medicare has increased, the college is downsizing, and rent increases are out of control with all kinds of ludicrous extra fees, I'm seriously contemplating a move to Ecuador which I have been researching for over a year (thanks ...
AM sure other people will chime in, and can't speak from personal first hand knowledge, but my sister is a vegan, now living in Quito, and she doesn't think there is much of a variety to choose from. Obviously the fruits, and vegetables are ... 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 ...
Good call Nards about Kodi. Recently got both the amazon fire stick, and roku streaming stick. While I think the roku stick is overall better than the fire stick, have found myself primarily now only using kodi, as that has pretty much everything ... Read More
English speaking or bi-lingual Computer Service Technicial by Lea4278
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Not sure if this will help or not Natalie? Did a quick google search for computer repairs in Quito, and several threads came back recommending ABC Computers on Colon and 9 de Octubre. It might be a possibility for you? Read More
U.S. citizen dies during Ayahuasca ceremony in Ecuador by crowdpub
Ayahuasca tours have become a money maker in the tourism in Ecuador. Leslie Allison from Texas who is a member of many expat groups on facebook died January 14 while participating in an Ayahuasca ceremony. She was with a group of 32 participants. ...
Erowid is one of the most comprehensive sites for information on pretty much every drug, and hallucinogens. Here is a link with some info about the dangers of ayahuasca if anyone is ... Read More
U.S. citizen dies during Ayahuasca ceremony in Ecuador by crowdpub
Ayahuasca tours have become a money maker in the tourism in Ecuador. Leslie Allison from Texas who is a member of many expat groups on facebook died January 14 while participating in an Ayahuasca ceremony. She was with a group of 32 participants. ...
Peru is another popular place for ayahuasca ceremonies amongst foreigners. Imagine there will be more deaths in the years to come as psychedelics are making a comeback in popularity. One of the potential problems is that many of these retreats are ... 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 ...
Not sure if this has place has been mentioned yet, but ran across an interesting article on cheese in Salinas de Bolivar. Sounds like it could be a decent place to get a cheese ... Read More
renters and homeowners insurance in Ecuador by johnplov
Hello, I am living in Portland Oregon, and planning to retire with my wife in August 2016. We would like to retire in either Cotacachi or Cuenca, starting in Cotacachi, and moving to Cuenca if Cotacachi is too small for us. We have visited both ...
The magnifying glass to the left of the sign in button, or if already signed in is just to the right of where it says forum. Read More
Expatriate or Traitor? by Banjpplayer2
I know this going to seem very silly, but if I don't get it out of my head it will bug me forever. One of my biggest struggles with moving to Ecuador is the label Expat. Now I've traveled the world. It seems to ring true that "birds of ...
Hardly think I'm drinking the kool aid. If you would have read any of my posts in different threads, you would know that I own gold, silver, as well as other investments, and also a fair amount of land outside of the U.S. Have also consistentely ... Read More
Expatriate or Traitor? by Banjpplayer2
I know this going to seem very silly, but if I don't get it out of my head it will bug me forever. One of my biggest struggles with moving to Ecuador is the label Expat. Now I've traveled the world. It seems to ring true that "birds of ...
That seems like a pretty accurate statement. Funny how it was just a few years ago that so many were proclaiming the end of the U.S. dollar, gold would be $4000-5000 an ounce, and oil would be at $150-200 a barrel. Looks like the U.S. dollar is ... Read More
Should Ecuador Follow Mexico's Methods in Marketing to Tourists? by cccmedia
Mexico is "light years ahead of Ecuador" when it comes to marketing itself for international tourism, says Dom Buonacami. In a message from Cancún, Mexico, the Ecuador-based blogger/entrepreneur lists seven things Ecuador could learn ...
Mexico and Ecuador ia an applles to oranges comparison. Cancun, and Playa del Carmen are only two small parts of Mexico. Much more to Mexico than those two overpriced places. Cheaper flights, and better organization would definitely be a good thing, ... Read More