Edd Staton
@eddstaton
American expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
148
Contacts
49
About me
American
Lives in Cuenca
Speaks English, un pocito Espanol
Registration: 16 March 2010
Items to ship vs. buy in Cuenca? by MissDenver
I wanted to find out what items I should ship. Are there items you wish you had brought? I will need TV, queen & twin beds, 2 mattresses, sofa, loveseat or chair, coffee table, small desk, dining table & chairs. I want to know how much to budget for ...
Here's something important for you to recognize reading posts on forums. Most are overly populated with negative people who enjoy sharing their tales of woe, so it's easy to think their comments are the norm rather than the exception. Those ... Read More
Items to ship vs. buy in Cuenca? by MissDenver
I wanted to find out what items I should ship. Are there items you wish you had brought? I will need TV, queen & twin beds, 2 mattresses, sofa, loveseat or chair, coffee table, small desk, dining table & chairs. I want to know how much to budget for ...
That's not necessarily true. We had a seamless experience shipping a 40' container from Las Vegas to Cuenca for much less than the cost of a move from Charleston, SC to Vegas. So much depends on finding the right agent. But regarding the ... 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 ...
I've worked for IL over 3 years. 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 ...
IL is in the information business, not the real estate business. Read More
Safety in the country outside of Cuenca by BryonDavis
Hello All, As the thread topic states, I am curious about safety outside of Cuenca. In Barley's very insightful (and amusing) thread, there is talk about being robbed at gunpoint while riding a bicycle on some trails. Others talk about ...
Forget about finding a job here. Since you're in the IT field, your best bet would be to work remotely. Internet service is fine, and I know others who are continuing their employment in this way. Read More
Safety in the country outside of Cuenca by BryonDavis
Hello All, As the thread topic states, I am curious about safety outside of Cuenca. In Barley's very insightful (and amusing) thread, there is talk about being robbed at gunpoint while riding a bicycle on some trails. Others talk about ...
Furnished you'd probably be looking at around $300/month. Sit tight--in 6-9 years there will surely be a new "latest & greatest" place to retire. Read More
B.S System by ZenSPIKE
As some of you might know, I recently posted my experiences in the on going Visa saga. To quickly sum it up, I was told by my attorney in Cuenca that : They would NOT accept my State background check in Cuenca, but they would accept it in ...
FYI-your background check and marriage license will be accepted in Cuenca (as long as they're not too old and are apostilled). That's why they opened an office here, for God's sake. And your birth certificates aren't needed for your visas but are ... Read More
Gringo-Cuencano moving to Cuenca in September 2013 by mitchguzman
Hi ya'll, My name is Mitchell, I am a gringo-cuencano moving to Cuenca in September with my wife and kids. Got some questions regarding banking, credit cards, internet, cell phones, etc. 1) I work for a web design company in Boca Raton and will ...
Plan to do everything online, amigo. Mail service here is not dependable. Read More
ABOUT THE RAIN JUST CURIOUS
Ignore those weather reports--they always say it's raining here. The weather here changes sometimes by the hour. A few days ago I was sunbathing--it's now overcast and I'm wearing a sweater. All you need to know is the temps don't vary much but the ... Read More
when renting an apt or condo in Cuenca what by pele6254
documents do you need to present or is just cut and dry.. pay the landlord/realtor and that's it?? Also we were looking at cuecarealestate.com we want to know if anyone has done business with them as we like a few apartments on their website. Thank ...
Dude, that van ride from Quito to Cuenca is 8 hours. You sure you don't want to spring for a 45 minute flight? Read More
WINE OR WINE-NOT??? When we do leave by pele6254
in a few months the holidays will be approaching and that's when I buy wine and champagne, Can you tell me if it's expensive there or should I bring some wine from California as I can buy cheap here but if it's NOT expensive in Cuenca I really ...
Understand, brother, that there are the "rules," as Vinny states, and then there's what really happens. Assess your tolerance for risk and act accordingly. Read More
Cuenca Consulate Office by njfost
Does anyone in Cuenca have the phone number directly to the office that you apply for visas? I have read they recently relocated, and the number on the website is not working. I appreciate all you information. Thank you.
If you're not aware, the new location is near the Supermaxi behind Parque de la Madre. Read More
withdrawing from ATM by pele6254
we are not there yet but better to know from you guys that are there...I heard the max you can withdraw a day from a bank is 200.00 is that true?? We for now will keep our money in a US bank so when we pay the rent I guess we will have to visit the ...
Traveler's checks are not a good option. ATM withdrawals depend on the limit set by your own bank + the bank's ATM you are using. Bank of Pichincha allows $600/day for foreigners and $300/day for residents. Plus they don't charge a fee. If you need ... Read More
WINE OR WINE-NOT??? When we do leave by pele6254
in a few months the holidays will be approaching and that's when I buy wine and champagne, Can you tell me if it's expensive there or should I bring some wine from California as I can buy cheap here but if it's NOT expensive in Cuenca I really ...
Yes, alcohol is subject to import taxes and therefore expensive (Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel is on the shelf for $38, as an example). The lower priced stuff you'll find here pales in comparison to the quality of California wines. Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
With baseball trivia being your best example of helping folks considering expatriation, nothing more needs to be said about this subject. Read More
Bringing Pet Birds to Ecuador by travtay50
Anyone know the issues with bringing pet birds? We have a Goffin's Cockatoo and a Rose Breasted Cockatoo.
You'll be asking for trouble trying to bring those in, I'm afraid. Ecuadorians don't handle exceptions very well. Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
By "over and out," I hope that means you are done with this forum, Mugtech. It's obvious that you have no intention of moving to Ecuador, so you seem to enjoy sitting on the sidelines making smart alack remarks for your own amusement. This forum is ... Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
Geez, dude, you need some new Ecuadorian friends. Our local acquaintances are the kindest people we have ever known. Regarding the wealth issue, the 90/10 ratio you quote is generous compared to the distribution of assets in the US, so I hate to ... Read More
When should I get my Visa? by RyanSchaefer
I plan on moving to Ecuador for at least 6 months. I hope I enjoy it enough to stay permanently though. Now I know as a US citizen I can stay for 90 days with just my passport. Would it be wiser to get my 6 month Visa ahead of time or is it fairly ...
I'd wait and get it here. You can get a 6 month 12-IX extension up to the 89th day of your T-3. That gives you plenty of time to make an informed decision and get your paperwork in order to apply for residency if you so choose. Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
I believe in being real as well. You must have just up and moved to Ecuador without an exploratory trip. Otherwise you would have quickly realized all these deal breaker issues you apparently discovered the hard way after you got here. Forget ... Read More
Cuenca vs Medellin by PattiH
Is there anyone on this board who has lived both Medellin Colombia and Cuenca Equador? I'm researching for relocation. I'm down to Medellin and Cuenca. Other than weather, and "feel" of the two cities they seem fairly comparable. This has been (and ...
Did you read Kathie Peddicord's recent comparison on Live & Invest Overseas? That should tell you all you need to know. Read More
pre existing conditions by josectech
Hi, Can some one have a pre existing conditions and still get Health care in Ecuador.
Byron, in response to the growing older gringo population private health care companies are rolling out new policies all the time. I'm almost certain you can find something suitable. Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
To spend $3000 a month your lifestyle would have to be incredibly extravagant. Thanks for the kind words. Read More
pre existing conditions by josectech
Hi, Can some one have a pre existing conditions and still get Health care in Ecuador.
Policies aren't as restrictive as the US. You should be able to find something that works. 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.
None of my Canadian friends have ever mentioned a problem using their cards at ATM's. You don't have to withdraw large amounts of money. In fact the most you're allowed is $500/day. Just get a couple of hundred at a time. Read More
Let's talk guns by BryonDavis
I looked around the forums and really saw nothing on the subject. My wife and I have carried concealed (with various licenses) for two decades. With all of the talk about armed robberies by gun and knifepoint, home invasions, burglaries, etc., I ...
I'm amazed that this thread keeps going. Is anyone besides me ready to change the subject? 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 ...
The weather here changes multiple times per day, so it's hard to answer about a whole month. We do have minor seasonal variations which run opposite to the US since we're in the southern hemisphere. For September think late winter/early spring--but ... Read More
Headed for Cuenca...but worried about Government by dickk
What if this idyllic Cuenca, this lovely, affordable Ecuador, turns into Cuba? Like...I arrive, and Edd and Vinny and Nards tell me, "You are now trapped in the Communist Paradise; Correa took off the mask yesterday". My Spanish is insufficient to ...
You didn't "lose," brother. Quito is a wonderful city. You'll love it. Read More
Safety in the country outside of Cuenca by BryonDavis
Hello All, As the thread topic states, I am curious about safety outside of Cuenca. In Barley's very insightful (and amusing) thread, there is talk about being robbed at gunpoint while riding a bicycle on some trails. Others talk about ...
"Target" isn't the right word. I'd go with "opportunity"----. Everywhere we're seen as wealthy (understandable in a country where the minimum wage is just over $300/mo.). I'd say the only time we're resented is when some of us forget we are guests ... Read More
Safety in the country outside of Cuenca by BryonDavis
Hello All, As the thread topic states, I am curious about safety outside of Cuenca. In Barley's very insightful (and amusing) thread, there is talk about being robbed at gunpoint while riding a bicycle on some trails. Others talk about ...
I had friends with a beautiful home in the country who were burglarized while they were away for the day. You've got to understand, Byron, that a gringo plopped down in the middle of a rural area sticks out like a sore thumb and is considered ... Read More
Safety in the country outside of Cuenca by BryonDavis
Hello All, As the thread topic states, I am curious about safety outside of Cuenca. In Barley's very insightful (and amusing) thread, there is talk about being robbed at gunpoint while riding a bicycle on some trails. Others talk about ...
Personal safety should not be an issue while you are present. Your biggest concern will be for your property when you are away. Many folks outside the city have a caretaker to watch over their property in their absence. Read More
FBI Back Ground Check? by ZenSPIKE
Well, I'm getting all my paperwork in order to make the move to Cuenca this June, and get my Visa. The last thing I plan to do before I leave the states, is to get my state police back ground check done. I had heard in the past, that it had to be no ...
Neil, Immigration prefers an FBI report but the local police report is accepted. 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.
Neil, we've got a savings account with Coopera to automatically debit our utility bills. What a time-saver! Read More
FBI Back Ground Check? by ZenSPIKE
Well, I'm getting all my paperwork in order to make the move to Cuenca this June, and get my Visa. The last thing I plan to do before I leave the states, is to get my state police back ground check done. I had heard in the past, that it had to be no ...
That totally depends on where you live. In major cities you'll find many locals who speak at least some English. If you're in a more rural area basic Spanish will make life much less stressful. Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
My wife and I, and hundreds of people we know feel blessed to live in Ecuador. Good luck with your journey. 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 lived here three years and have had no need to open an Ecuadorian bank account. I have chosen instead to maintain my banking relationship in the US and pull cash from ATM's as required. I do have a savings account for the sole purpose of ... Read More
HomeSchooling by BOSTON MAMA
Is Home schooling legal in Ecuador? Not to sure how long we will actually be there, so perhaps it won't matter. But if we do stay, I will home school. Anyone know?
My kids are grown, but I can't imagine home schooling being illegal. Even if it were enforcement would be impossible. Read More
house sitting by badgett44
When you leave your home for more than a day, is a house sitter needed for security?
We live in a gated building and leave for weeks at a time without worry. If you are in a house that's a whole different story. 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 ...
Miss Denver, what you are describing has already been happening here for years. Some Cuencano landlords with nice properties try their best to rent to gringos because 1) we will pay more and 2) we pay on time. The supply/demand issue is growing ... 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 ...
It's possible but it'll really be tight. Your two wild cards: 1) the health insurance, which of course will vary according to your health and level of coverage, and 2) your pets. The rental market is extremely tight right now and landlords would ... Read More
Pollution? by efrater
Considering the prevailing winds in Cuenca, what part of the city would be upwind from el Centro, considering air pollution? Eric
Surprise!! I totally agree with you. We're going to Quito in the AM to speak at the IL conference this weekend and are very much looking forward, among other amenities, to enjoying cuisine not available here. If we ever tired of living in Cuenca and ... Read More
Pollution? by efrater
Considering the prevailing winds in Cuenca, what part of the city would be upwind from el Centro, considering air pollution? Eric
Eric, I hope you understand that I'm not trying to be a smart ass. It has been my observation over several years living abroad that those who accept and embrace the multitude of challenges involved with starting their new life have a much better ... Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
Moving to a foreign country and trying to "copy and paste" your cultural standards on your new home and its people is a surefire way to guarantee frustration and disappointment. Your examples are a gross oversimplification of complicated social ... Read More
Pollution? by efrater
Considering the prevailing winds in Cuenca, what part of the city would be upwind from el Centro, considering air pollution? Eric
If you are concerned about minutiae like this you absolutely shouldn't seriously consider moving to Ecuador. If it's not this it'll be something else, and there are SO many something else's----. Read More
The negatives about retiring in Ecuador by Bob Way
Please tell me all the negatives of retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador. What are the most important things I need to know. I don't speak Spanish, how much of a problem is that? I thank you in advance for your answers. Bob Way
OK, the toilet tissue issue--the plumbing in old buildings is definitely not set up to handle it. Even in more modern buildings the plumbers sometimes use smaller pipes to save money so you're taking a chance but usually there's no problem. We ... Read More
pensionado visa by Stephen and Ramona
When my wife and i get there in Cuenca, I will apply for a pensionado visa. My wife, being a few years younger than me would not be eligible for that visa. I suppose I would claim her as a dependant at that time but what visa would she apply for as ...
She can be a dependent on your visa. You must have $800/mo. permanent provable income for you and $100/more for her (so $900 total). Read More
What items do you most miss from the US? by hjschanke
Here's a hypothetical question for those of you who've been in Cuenca for a while. If someone were willing to bring you a full suitcase from the US, what would you have them fill it with? clothes? shoes? electronics? certain foods/spices?
Definitely the food items. The rest of the things you mentioned can be purchased at some price. Read More
Cuenca and Carnaval by jm141302
Hi Cuenca folk. How's Cuenca during the long Carnaval weekend? My parents are coming into Ecuador soon and I'm trying to find a location that isn't going to be completely booked, like a beach town or small city like Baños might be, and isn't too ...
Carnaval is actually a pretty lousy time to be in Cuenca. The city is mostly deserted as it's a really big travel weekend. There are for sure the water balloon throwing knuckleheads out and about. Getting hit with one (as I did last year) is more ... Read More
Considering Cuenca.....
My blog (www.eddsaid.blogspot.com) will fill you in on 2 1/2 years of living here. Read More
Visiting Cuenca to consider living there by sebastiandangerfield
Hi, I plan to spend November in Cuenca determining whether to move there. I live in Minneapolis in the US - climate is a consideration as well as cost of living. I am looking to connect with expats to gain knowledge.
Geve, be aware that there are very few expats in Loja and very little English is spoken by the locals there. If you are fluent in Spanish and have a pioneering spirit, you may find the city very appealing. Read More
Bottled Water Service serving Cuenca by Nards Barley
Anyone know of any bottled water service serving Cuenca that makes deliveries, and what the cost is for a 5 gallon bottle?
I joined this thread late. For what it's worth, my wife & I drink the tap water in Cuenca and have done so since our arrival 2 1/2 years ago. We've never experienced any problems. Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
LeftClique, since you have such problems with IL I'm amazed you continue receiving, reading, and listening to our notifications. It's kinda like hitting yourself in the head with a hammer and complaining of headaches. I cannot speak to the ... Read More
pre existing conditions by josectech
Hi, Can some one have a pre existing conditions and still get Health care in Ecuador.
Any resident can join the Social Security health care system in Ecuador, even without a job. It will cost about $70/month. As far as I'm aware the only pre-existing conditions that disqualify an applicant are potentially fatal ones like cancer. Read More
We are on our way by Lance & Chon Brown
My wife and I are moving to Cuenca, from Butuan City in the Philippines. I am a retired Americano and my wife Chonita, is a retired master teacher ,and a Filipina. We are looking forward to the move and meeting you all. We have had the pleasure of ...
Safe travels. Let us know when you get here. Read More
Looking to move to Cuenca on a pensioners visa by stick1947
We are Canadians looking to move to Cuenca on a pensioners visa. Since Canada does not have an apostille agreement, could anybody help us with that and exactly what documents we need. Also, should we have them translated into Spanish here or in ...
I wouldn't advise skipping anything. Ecuadorians are overly fond of correct paperwork. I found this link about what Canadians do in lieu of an apostille. Hope it helps. Canada alternative to apostille Edd Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
I'll attempt to maintain my "nice guy" image with this reply, John. I started writing for IL in late spring of this year and was certainly aware of the criticisms you mention. I now am on the mailing list for everything sent out by IL and can ... Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
Some folks are disappointed to find Cuenca cooler and rainier than they expected, but humidity is low so "muggy" never describes our weather. The tradeoff for warmer weather is locating in a lower elevation where you also get humidity and bugs. I ... Read More
Cuenca & Loja by Dmatt
Planning to visit in February 2013. Would like to get a better idea of the real cost to live there and purchase price for a decent place in Cuenca and possibly Loja. We will retire in a few years and really do not want to pay the gringo prices. ...
I recently did a cost of living survey of expats living in Cuenca for International Living. The average monthly budget excluding housing & travel was around $1200. I stress this is an average. If you have pets, consume lots of imported goods, or ... Read More
life in Ecuador by Domenick11
Hi, if you have any specific questions let me know, I work in Murali Hostal in Guayaquil, id be glad to sit down with you and give you an Americans point of view to life in Ecuador if you stop by, Dom
Ken, you didn't ask me but I think you're really playing the risk/reward card. How can the developers possibly create everything you described if they need your money to even begin the project? Fresh water has to be trucked to much of the coast. How ... Read More
Is food really that expensive? by luisr
Hi everybody, this is my first post. I've read a ton of the topics on here and have found them to be extremely valuable! Just one question, though: My sister's husband is from Ecuador and she was telling me last night that although housing (rent) ...
If you're a teetotalling vegetarian your food bill will be super-low in Ecuador. Alcohol, imported goods and, yes, chicken are pricey, but most everything else is very reasonable. I'm in the US right now visiting family for the holidays. Pineapples ... Read More
Informational tours or conferences
International Living has a conference in Quito February 7-9. If you make it to Cuenca, TerraDiversa tour company offers both group and private tours around southern Ecuador. Read More
noodling about housing
No need to be so sensitive, Bob. It's not really about agreeing or disagreeing. The difference is I live here and you don't. Read More
noodling about housing
You're thinking WAY too much, amigo. Turnover is by definition high for short-term rentals, but there isn't that much bouncing around among permanent residents. Because of this and the growing expat community in Cuenca, quality rentals are probably ... Read More
looking to explore Ecuador
The owners of California Kitchen and San Sebas Cafe in Cuenca are expats. They could best advise you on your plans for a restaurant. Read More
Currently in Cuenca, looking to meet expats by Wyvern
My wife and I are currently in Cuenca. We're contemplating a move down here and would love to get together and hear firsthand the good and bad of moving to Ecuador. Send me a message if you're interested in getting together. Pete
Can't meet you personally unless you're in town for awhile. My wife returns to Ecuador today after weeks away and we've got a lot of catching up to do. Go to DiBacco (Tarqui & Gran Columbia) tomorrow night for Gringo Night. Other good spots to meet ... Read More
Will be in Cuenca in January by mirandola44
Hi, Folks. Just looking to connect with some expats in Cuenca for a little info and advice on touring and living there. I may be retiring in the next few years and am interested in Cuenca as a place to live, either year-round or for at least a ...
I'll be happy to assist. What specifically would you like to know? Edd Read More
first trip to Cuenca by Char57
When we make our first trip to Cuenca is it best to seek a motel/hotel? It will be for 10 days. I see abundant rentals on the internet but often wonder if renting that way is a good idea. I've read often the places are not available when you arrive, ...
Yikes! A year and a half? Don't catch the common prospective expat condition known as "Analysis Paralysis." You've got a lot of time and there's too much info out there. Learn enough to have a direction then come see what you think. Read More
Ecuador & the US Dollar by PortMacGuy
Just wondering... What is life going to be like in Ecuador, in the event the US dollar crashes... Can anyone give me any kind of projection here... I was reading somewhere on the net, that it was not advisable to live in Dollarized country's ...
The great news about Ecuador's history of political instability is that citizens aren't dependent on the government like in the US. I've lived here 2 1/2 years and , beyond getting my visa, government policy has not effected my daily life in the ... Read More
first trip to Cuenca by Char57
When we make our first trip to Cuenca is it best to seek a motel/hotel? It will be for 10 days. I see abundant rentals on the internet but often wonder if renting that way is a good idea. I've read often the places are not available when you arrive, ...
For a 10 day rental you'll be better off in an apartment than a hotel. It'll be cheaper plus you'll have more space and the opportunity to prepare some simple meals. There are several folks I know with such units. Tell me when you're coming and I'll ... Read More
Crime in Cuenca
None at all, but some folks do struggle with the change in altitude. Plus Cuenca isn't exactly flat! Read More
Crime in Cuenca
Don't believe everything you read, especially from the government. Whoever wrote that warning obviously doesn't live here. Maybe they copied and pasted Detroit's by mistake ;). There is of course more crime in the larger cities (Quito and especially ... Read More
new to the forum
Health care is excellent here in Cuenca. We have numerous modern hospitals and clinics and well-trained physicians. Drugs are usually OTC and much cheaper than in the US. Read More
Country Music Bands in Cuenca
At present you would be a one man band. Country music is not real big in South America, amigo. Maybe you could start one? Read More
Living and working in Cuenca by PaulBart1
Hello everyone I will shortly be moving to Cuenca to live with my family and we plan to open a small restaurant as we are great Asian cooks. I would appreciate any advice on the best areas to love and work. Ideally we would like to live above or ...
A good Asian cafe with a nice atmosphere would be most welcome in Cuenca. Most of the existing places are little hole-in-the-wall joints for takeout only. A light rail system is planned for downtown that will eliminate many of the fume-spewing ... Read More
Just how, "conservative" IS Cuenca? by ChowBella
We've been looking at videos posted by Cuenca folks on youtube and there was mention of how conservative it is. In your opinion how conservative is it, really? We are not wild party folk (although we do drink, often), we aren't loud or rude ...
Nobody here (that matters) cares about your religious or personal grooming preferences. Are you kind, thoughtful, positive, and interesting? If so you'll have no problems. Read More
Just arrived in Cuenca, saying hello!
Welcome, Brock. You've come to Cuenca at a great time of year. Spring's just beginning and the big Independence festival is only weeks away. Hope you love this place as much as we do! Read More
Immigration lawyer
I highly recommend Maria Fernanda Toral. We went through two other attorneys before finding this gem. Contact her at cmc@cmc.com.ec. Read More
Re Cuenca: Having a Stinking Spell by dickk
What we call a "sinking spell" is a steep drop in mood, aka a depression, perhaps momentary. A Stinking Spell is a sinking spell that stinks. Maybe it's just Dreaming giving way to Reality. I'm coming to Cuenca for a 90-day holiday, which I ...
Dick, welcome to your first lesson in Patience 101. Unless Connie is constantly updating her book the rules have probably changed five times since she published it. The key is to get a good attorney (I'm on my third one who I can confidently ... Read More
Cuenca: getting there and living there by dickk
Single sixties guy leaving Kerrville, Texas for Cuenca Decemberish; three month scouting trip; find a First Year Apartment, etc. Then send for the dishes. May I ask a couple of questions? Getting There: Anyone have any intel on preferred US ...
Use Operazuaytur if you're taking a van from Guayaquil to Cuenca. $12/person one way. Read More
Cuenca: getting there and living there by dickk
Single sixties guy leaving Kerrville, Texas for Cuenca Decemberish; three month scouting trip; find a First Year Apartment, etc. Then send for the dishes. May I ask a couple of questions? Getting There: Anyone have any intel on preferred US ...
It's definitely better to fly into Guayaquil if the cost is comparable to Quito. Why? Because most flights into Quito arrive too late to connect to Cuenca the same day, forcing an overnight stay then schlepping your bags right back to the airport ... Read More
Hello, Cuenca!!
Are you coming here permanently (whatever that means) or for a look/see visit? 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 ...
My wife and I just spoke at the IL Fast Track conference in Quito this weekend as the expat representatives from Cuenca. I have a notion that many of the respondents to this topic have never actually been to one of these gatherings and are voicing ... Read More
Are there no dried split peas to be had in Cuenca? by Nards Barley
I have scoured the main markets for split peas to no avail. Has anyone spotted them somewhere? I tried to make my soup with the whole dried peas but hated it. You have to pre-soak the whole peas for an eternity, plus the skins from the peas come ...
BTW, amigo. I know I've seen dried split peas at Supermaxi but, like many things, this may not be a regularly stocked item. Read More
Questions about this blog and everyday life in Cuenca by the wayfaring stranger
My wife and I are planning a trip to Cuenca. We are beginning to do research to see if we'd like to retire there. In your opinion, is this the most frequented site to gather info. I can't help but notice very few responses on many threads. Also, ...
I'm sure I'm the "crabby" person who responded to the guy from Texas. Assign whatever value judgement you choose to my remarks but, believe it or not, I'm trying to be helpful. I've lived in Ecuador for some years now, and it's my observation that ... Read More
Ecuador & the US Dollar by PortMacGuy
Just wondering... What is life going to be like in Ecuador, in the event the US dollar crashes... Can anyone give me any kind of projection here... I was reading somewhere on the net, that it was not advisable to live in Dollarized country's ...
Don't worry about doomsday. In this global economy if the dollar crashes there's no safety anywhere. Read More
Expats living in Cuenca
Expats live all over town, but the biggest concentration is around Ordonez Lasso on the west side of town. Read More
Deal breaking questions about Cuenca Ecuador by Txsbigfoot
1. As a Southern boy I like my Bourbon whiskey. Do they have Bourbon like Jack Daniels, Wild Turkey, etc... for sale there, and if so can anyone give me an idea of the cost per litre bottle? 2. I see that you have to have an invite or pay a ...
With these types of specific concerns you're going to have a very difficult time being happy here. The cost of hard liquor just skyrocketed (and it wasn't cheap to start with) because of new import taxes. Joining the country club is the only way ... Read More
August Visit by toolsolutions
Hi We have been considering Ecuador as a retirement destination. We have been diligently reading the posts, Blogs( thanks Dano, yours are the best IMHO), and media print for over 2 years. My significant (very significant, according to her) other, ...
Overall the roads are surprisingly excellent. We're speaking at the IL conference so I'm sure we'll meet you there. Hotel Victoria is another good choice in Cuenca. See you soon--safe travels! Read More
Banking
Your best option is not to bring traveler's checks at all. Cash and credit/debit cards are the easiest way to go. Read More
Shipping list by Ramoncito
Finally packing for my move to Tarqui (Close to Cuenca) and would greatly appreciate if some one could give me and idea of how the shipping list is suppose to look like. Thank you Ramoncito
The more detailed the better. And translated into Spanish. You don't have to go so far as listing 16 forks, 18 spoons, etc., but err on the side of giving too much detail. The good news is when you unpack you know exactly where to find that wine ... Read More
Must do's in Cuenca by KuskoCouple
My boyfriend and I will be in Cuenca for 3 weeks beginning May 14. In this amount of time, what are the best things to do and places to see? Thanks.
For sure stop by TerraDiversa's office on Calle Larga. They have several "must-do" tours that you can choose from. Read More
cost of van from Guayaquil by scotties
can anyone help me what is the cost of transport from Guayaquil to Cuenca arriving in march with 4 large suitcases can we get someone from Cuenca to pick us up as we will use him again thanks for help
$12 per person. Sometimes they charge a little more for extra bags, sometimes not. Read More
Any recommendations for Hotel Otorongo in Cuenca?
Otorongo Apartments are clean & safe but quite spartan. Portable heating units can be purchased but it's true, no heat or AC here. Bring a sweater! Read More
Attorneys in Cuenca
Contact me at eddsaid@gmail.com and I'll give you the info you need. Read More
Changes in residency requirements
They could change two or three times between now and Feb. Stay tuned--------. Read More
Hotels in Cuenca?
Of course. Hotel Cuenca is a good option--updated rooms, two restaurants, conveniently located in the historic district. Read More