Cathie
@CB48
American looking for information about Ecuador
Forum posts
72
Contacts
10
About me
American
Lives in St. Louis
Speaks English, a little Russian, a little Spanish
Registration: 23 November 2011
Gringos go home!!! No spanish, no stay!!! This will weed out. by Cuenca boy
New rules require Ecuador expats to be 鈥榩roficient鈥� in Spanish; requirement affects current residents as well as new ones Published on March 28, 2015 by: CuencaHighLife |Comment In a dramatic policy change, Ecuador鈥檚 Ministry of ...
This was a really bad April fools joke. Please don't spread it any farther! 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Tough n ew animal protections passed last week. I don't know the specifics though 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
SJpersonal says she loves to cook and has lots of cookbooks. I did too. Problem is that cooking at this altitude is a totally different animal! Cook books are helpful but a lot of experimentation is required. 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
SJpersonal asked how long it took to get rid of a lifetime of stuff. I think I did it in about 6 months. I stll have my condo because the real estate market is the pits but everything except clothes, some art work and my pots and ... Read More
Questions before we start our three month visit on 11/24/2014 by wbcv867
Arriving Quito (from Myrtle Beach, SC area) - will spend one week there, then on to Cuenca for December into early Jan. Schedule is flexible after that but we will also visit Galapaos and Cotacachi while there. Need help with some immediate ...
ATM's are easily available in Cuenca and Quito. I pay cash for most things but have used a credit card at the SuperMaxi (grocery store) and in hotels and some restaurants without penalty. (My bank credit card does not have a transaction ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Joe said all was AOK after tax police left. Annoyed that they disrupted business but said there were no issues. Hope he meant it! y y 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 agree that the pollution from the buses is incredible. In Cuenca, locals and gringos alike cover their faces with scarves when buses go by. The buses are also fairly unsafe unless one is quick and nimble--gentle stops are unheard of and they ... Read More
seeking reliable lawyer by gloryking
I am trying to find reliable good lawyer for residency in Ecuador/Chile. I'd appreciate your help. Thanks! glory
Good luck to you. I am single female (widowed) and have experienced no issues in my short time here. I think one has to be aware of the surroundings wherever you live. At least every other person in Cuenca doesn't have a gun!! Read More
Club correos $42 tarriff by Howardofocal
Do I understand the new tarriff correctly? They are now going to add a $42 tarriff to each order above and beyond what they currently charge?
Sorry. My initial enrollment was with a groupon. The $5 price was for 6 months. My renewal information shows that your info is correct. Didn't mean to mislead. 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 did not bring a container so can't comment on that. However saw a furniture store at Mall del Rio yesterday that had several styles of recliners. Wasn't looking for one so didn't inspect closely but they looked nice. Good luck with ... Read More
seeking reliable lawyer by gloryking
I am trying to find reliable good lawyer for residency in Ecuador/Chile. I'd appreciate your help. Thanks! glory
My attorney is Andrea Jaramillo . She has been great at guiding me through the process. She charges a flat fee. 50% up front and the rest when everything is completed. Andreajaramil64@hotmail.com Good luck! Cathie Read More
Club correos $42 tarriff by Howardofocal
Do I understand the new tarriff correctly? They are now going to add a $42 tarriff to each order above and beyond what they currently charge?
"fee is 12 times as high as club correos" I paid less than $5 for a mailbox for a year. They do have a $4 fee for mail you want forwarded (scanned) but you have a choice about each piece sent to you. I have found them to be prompt, ... Read More
Club correos $42 tarriff by Howardofocal
Do I understand the new tarriff correctly? They are now going to add a $42 tarriff to each order above and beyond what they currently charge?
Usglobalmail.com is based in Dallas, Texas and will receive mail and packages and scan the mail or consolidate packages for the least expensive shipping. Their fees are reasonable although i just got here 2 days ago and thus have not yet used ... 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 was recently given a new perspective on "Gringo Price Gouging" by an Ecuadorian who now lives in the U. S. The higher one is on the socioeconomic ladder, the more one is expected to pay. It is both a form of charitable giving and a ... Read More
Is Ecuador a Good Place For a Single 60-Year Old Woman? by Chrisandra
My name is Chrisandra and I am a youthful, fit 60-year old woman thinking of retiring (alone) to Ecuador (Quito?) or Panama in maybe 2 years. I will have about $1,400 a month to live on and am frugal with simple tastes. I hope to rent a small ...
I have found everyone whom I have met in Cuenca to be kind and helpful--Gringos and Ecuadorians alike. Obviously, everyone has their own experience and opinion. Read More
A Brief Personal Note by BobH
I don't want to get off-topic, but I guess this could be called expat-related: I have suffered a health-related issue that has required me to return unexpectedly to the US. I'm not sure how long I'll be here it looks like it could be ...
The end of the year is rapidly approaching. Hope you are better and planning your return trip 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Do the cheap seats in St. Louis! No bad seats in the entire stadium. 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Maybe if Nards introduced himself as Mugtech he would have gotten more of a response? Read More
the insect population by getting there
Hi after moving to an area where there is a huge insect population mainly mosquitoes and black flies I have become very concerned about them. I had not considered them to be much of a problem and now I do because of the reaction that I have to ...
The American CDC (centers for disease control) Do not recommend vaccines for mosquito born illness in the high elevations of Ecuador. They tend to issue very conservative recommendations. I have visited Cuenca at all seasons of the year and have ... Read More
Is Ecuador a Good Place For a Single 60-Year Old Woman? by Chrisandra
My name is Chrisandra and I am a youthful, fit 60-year old woman thinking of retiring (alone) to Ecuador (Quito?) or Panama in maybe 2 years. I will have about $1,400 a month to live on and am frugal with simple tastes. I hope to rent a small ...
I am also a 60 something single woman. Am relocating to Cuenca in a few weeks Have been in touch with several women in similar position and couples as well. I have decided ( for good or ill) that it was time to just make the decision and do it. ... Read More
Conversation anyone? Ecuador has gone mighty quiet by gardener1
I think I've been on this forum for about a year and a half. Lately it seems like the batteries have been removed from the Ecuador bunny? We get a lot of questions, some good ones - and almost no answers. My favorite unanswered question of ...
I will be getting on a plane with a few suitcases to hold a very condensed lifetime in about 3 weeks. I found that an Ecuadorian attorney was a superb investment. (Can send her name if desired). The state apostille process was cheap and easy when ... Read More
help now emergency by carolynhunter
danygirl8903 i heed help help i need your pone number and email address cause im hyere and they lost my luggage im at the airport in Guayaquil help anybody
For some reason I got just the original post followed 4 hours later by the thread! Thought she was starting all over again :-) Read More
help now emergency by carolynhunter
danygirl8903 i heed help help i need your pone number and email address cause im hyere and they lost my luggage im at the airport in Guayaquil help anybody
Didn't this turn out to be a huge hoax? 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Did he say he was looking for a partner? 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
My house is for sale, my car is sold, most of the furniture is spoken for. A lifetime will fit in a few suitcases in a couple of months. I can't wait! ! 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
I am still waiting to understand the English on most of TV. Read More
confusion over martial status by retiranlovingit
I am in the process of putting together my paper work to apply for a pensioner聮s visa and a permanent visa, In doing my research regarding martial status a question came up. I am single now but was divorced 20 years ago; do I still need to get a ...
PS: congratulations on your upcoming wedding!! cb Read More
confusion over martial status by retiranlovingit
I am in the process of putting together my paper work to apply for a pensioner聮s visa and a permanent visa, In doing my research regarding martial status a question came up. I am single now but was divorced 20 years ago; do I still need to get a ...
just came back from Cuenca and meeting with attorney. ALL divorce decrees, marriage certificates, death certificates etc must be supplied. Especially for women (who change their name in the US), the trail is important. In Ecuador, every name ... Read More
confusion over martial status by retiranlovingit
I am in the process of putting together my paper work to apply for a pensioner聮s visa and a permanent visa, In doing my research regarding martial status a question came up. I am single now but was divorced 20 years ago; do I still need to get a ...
This is very helpful. Getting this paperwork in the US can be difficult and expensive--but less expensive than flying home to get something that was missing or incorrect! I just found out that my name was misspelled on my divorce certificate from ... 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 ...
ZenSpike, Obviously, you were in the U.S. when you processed your paperwork. Did you use an American attorney or one from Ecuador? Cathie 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 ...
louisb333 says: One important fact to know is this, once you begin your resident visa process, even if this process takes you two years to complete, you never have to leave Ecuador, or you can come and go as you please. Knowing this takes some of ... Read More
Rents in Cuenca
Just read on Gringo Tree that the rule of thumb for rents in the US is 1% of the property value per month. (ie a$150000 home would rent for $1,500 per month). I don't know where that comes from! It certainly isn't St. Louis. In my building, ... 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 ...
I think your police report has to be within 30 days. One from 2013 won't make it. If you overstay you visa, you will not be able to re-enter the country for a period of time. 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 ...
I thought the police report was within 30 days. 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 ...
The visa requirements are driving me crazy!!! It's my understanding that you are getting your visa before leaving the US rather than going on a 90 day and processing it there? The embassy in Chicago has assured me there is "no problemo" to take ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
I am curious to know how Giardia was diagnosed with a blood test. It is relatively common in the US--people get it from drinking water from streams or inadequately treated well water but I have never heard of a blood test to diagnose. Would ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
This morning it's -2 degrees F. The remainder of a storm still on the street--ice and dirty snow. The dog doesn't want to wear his boots but wants to be carried when he steps in snow melt! Ecuador is looking better and better. My Spanish class is ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Likewise, Janet. It's always hard to loose a friend and especially so when he or she is so young. My tid bits of information were just that. Life expectancy tables and statistics are scewed when one tries to apply them too broadly. As ZenSpike ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Just for interest, I looked up some data on life expectancy. Women can expect to live about 10 years longer in the US. than in Ecuador. Men can expect to live about 7 years longer. The causes of death are similar although rankings of these causes ... 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 ...
Must I have a divorce decree if I have been divorced, remarried and then widowed? If you need a divorce decree, do you then need your first marriage license? Thanks, cb 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
I thought the $300 per month life style was in Cuenca. :D ! Oh well, I'm sure by tomorrow the blogospere will have found it in some other country. I am still loving my job, hating the weather and plodding, one step at a time. toward Cuenca. Have ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Only staying a week? I thought that all the expats in Cuenca had so much time on their hands (retired, you know) and sooooo much money (from living the high life on $300 a month) ;) that you would vacation for at least a month or two! My hopes are ... 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 ...
Thanks for your response re divorce decrees and death certificates. I want to make sure I have everything done and in order when I leave the states. Traveling back and forth is NOT an option so I have to get it right the first time! Cathie 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 ...
I have been married and divorced once. Then remarried and widowed. Do I need the marriage certificates, divorce decree, and death certificate for both marriages? ie. a paper trail that proves who I am and that I am not running from legal ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
ZenSpike writes "It could be that this forum has reached it's (sic) saturation point. It happens" I no longer get notification of new posts and the new format makes it impossible to scan for threads of interest! Unfortunately I am still in the ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
If they sold White Castle, they would have to add a kiosk for antacids and gall bladder surgeries! Tried the local cuisine (sliders) once when I first moved to St. Louis----never again!! glad you enjoy, cb 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
thanks, wise one, you have freed up valuable luggage space. You are lucky to get mail order jeans that fit. I can't imagine having to return anything!!!! Cathue 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
Segways HAVE revolutionized the ways that individuals with some disabilities can get around in the US--all for the good. Also law enforcement and some employees of some really large (geographically) businesses. For the rest of us peons they remain ... 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
My carpet always matches my dog;) Cathie 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=/forum/viewtopic.php?id=224582]non-blog[/url], ...
That's not white--it's cream! Beautiful! I would take off my shoes-----!!. Why do men never know the difference between white and cream??:D Cathie Read More
Newbie landing in Quito on Mon. 9/30 by bslayers
I'm coming to Ecuador on Mon. for the first time. Just found this informative blog and appreciate the shared information. I realize at this point I don't have a lot of time to read through the wonderful information here. My name is Steve Rickman and ...
I recently was in Quito for the first time. Stayed at Patio Andaluz. Can't recommend it highly enough. Great breakfast. Wifi. Walking distance to almost everything. Don't be intimidated by the bus system--took me about a week to work up the ... Read More
Anyone had Service Dog Experiences in Ecuador? by JacquieMackenzie
My husband is a Purple Heart Awarded Vietnam Veteran. He returned from military service with Diabetes, PTSD, Heart Disease, Hearing Loss, Lung Scarring, and High Blood Pressure. He uses a 15 pound service dog (vest, tags, carrier, letters). Any ...
Dear Jacquie and Don, It will be very difficult to use a service dog on the bus in Quito. It is EXTREMELY crowded and the doors close no matter who is in the way. People will assist by pulling one inside and out of harms way but a small dog ... Read More
Visiting Sept. 3 - Oct 4 - Will immigration take my Rx at border? by JacquieMackenzie
My husband is on several vital medications issued by the Veteran's Center in the USA. They are clearly labeled with his name. Will the Ecuador border guards take them from him when we land?
I came into Quito with a bag full of meds a week ago. My sister in law likewise. Hers included pain meds. No one questioned anything. All were current RX and fully labeled. Have a great time. It is a beautiful city. The bus system is crowded ... Read More
US Citizens and Income Taxes by mugtech
As long as you are a US Citizen the IRS expects you to report your world wide income and pay tax accordingly. If you are living on Social Security benefits and have no other income you will owe no income tax, Social Security benefits gradually ...
Space cadet hippie lunatic...hmmm. I should fit right in. Read More
US Citizens and Income Taxes by mugtech
As long as you are a US Citizen the IRS expects you to report your world wide income and pay tax accordingly. If you are living on Social Security benefits and have no other income you will owe no income tax, Social Security benefits gradually ...
Thank you. Note to self: schedule appointment with tax attorney for list of things to do/not do BEFORE I move. I knew banking could be difficult. and I knew that taxes needed to be paid, but I will be retired and at most working part time or ... Read More
US Citizens and Income Taxes by mugtech
As long as you are a US Citizen the IRS expects you to report your world wide income and pay tax accordingly. If you are living on Social Security benefits and have no other income you will owe no income tax, Social Security benefits gradually ...
Whatever we think of it, we have to comply. Where does one find tax preparer able to keep one out of jail? It's not like you can just go drop your stuff off at H&R block! Is this easy? Do you need to send thing back to the US? Don't mean to be ... Read More
Looking for rye flour and caraway seeds in Cuenca
Did you find your flour and caraway seeds? if not, And if it is permited through customs, I am happy to bring some from the states. I will be in Cuento the last week of August. 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
Joseph, If your hands are truly painful at 60 degrees it may be from an auto immune condition called Reynaud's Syndrome. Especially if you notice the skin getting dusky--ask you physician. It is treatable with Nifedapine (and gloves of course!) ... Read More
How will Obamacare affect you? by MotoEspresso
We need to find out if those who are living abroad will be expected to support, pay or contribute to the US Affordable Health Care Act-Obama Care. I bet expatriotes will also have to pay whether yoj use it or not!
That's what insurance is--something you pay for, whether you use it or not, so that it is there when/if you need it. Most Ex-pats visit home from time to time. Many come home once or twice a year specifically for medical care. Many younger people ... Read More
Homestays by DanC
I am in the process of planning my first trip to Ecuador. I plan to visit in about a year if I can find a deal on airfare as that seems to be the most expensive part of the trip. My question is has anyone visited and did a homestay? To me that ...
I will be arriving in Cuenca in a couple of weeks and had been told (by travel agent and tour guide) that B&B's didn't really exist. That although the hotels offer breakast, it is somewhat more expensive and less intimate than a B&B. Nice to klnow ... 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.
I am tired of being wet and cold all winter, saut茅ed all summer. Looking forward to moderate--just wish I could figure out what "moderate" really means. Guess I'll figure it out and move 50 miles if I want something different? Making my first ... Read More
How will Obamacare affect you? by MotoEspresso
We need to find out if those who are living abroad will be expected to support, pay or contribute to the US Affordable Health Care Act-Obama Care. I bet expatriotes will also have to pay whether yoj use it or not!
As a US health care provider, I can tell you that no one knows what will happen. The bill has not been passed in its' final form. The date for implementation has been pushed off again. In the end, it is likely to be like medicare--you will pay ... Read More