A nice story to offset the dark side... a few days ago I only had a $20 bill to pay for my $8.64 dinner which arrived by motorcycle. Miguel, the biker, had been paid with large bills prior to my delivery and had no change left. I had already asked around in my building but nobody could change a $20 and neither could the shopkeeper next to my building. I was about to tell Miguel it was his lucky day and to keep the change, but he asked for my phone number and said he would be back later in the day with my change. I thought, okay, maybe it's actually MY lucky day. Five hours later, I get a call from Miguel asking me to come to the entrance of my building. He had my exact change. It was a lucky day for both of us as he drove off with a good tip for his service. "Disculpe la molestia" can go a long way and there's no need for cynicism.
Cuenca is one of the best cities in the world to live in. Absolutely a hidden Gem!!! More and more people are finding out. The food, the views, the people, the climate, and the diversity are excellent. Plus, it is peaceful.
You are absolutely right, Cuenca is not perfect but it's a really nice city to experience. First world cuisine and service for reasonable prices and good food for bargain basement prices. I believe I could eat out three meals a day of decent food for no more than $15.00 per day. When I walk around the old city and along the banks of the Tomebamba river I think I'm in an old European city... All the charm, half or less the cost, generally friendly and helpful people... Very nice, a hidden gem.
I arrived in Ecuador, for first time, today. Quito. The weather is beautiful. Blue skies and white puffy clouds. I'm staying at Quito Airport Suites. Thanks for the recommendation. I'm hoping the rest of the next 90 days, traveling Ecuador, is as pleasant as today. And yes, the Ecuadorians are very patient and helpful with my "Spanglish".
I visited Ecuador in the month of March 2023. Stayed in Cuenca for two weeks. I suppose the altitude affects some people more than others. I did not experience any air pollution for the weeks I was there. I interviewed numerous expats and all had nothing but positive experiences in Cuenca, even though I probed to find anything they did not like, they had nothing negative to say. Cuencanos were very friendly and curious about where I lived. From the Airport to the town was very easy using the Tram. Of all the cities I visited, Cuenca was the most charming. I also went to a very small town somewhere in the northern cordillera in a town called Chugchilan where I stayed a week in the ''Cloud Forest Hostal' a very charming place with very pleasant owners who made you feel very comfortable. For a very reasonable fee the owner drove us to the extinct volcano Quilota and back. If you are a trekky, I recommend the hostal and the trek around the Quilota laguna.
Years ago an expat surgeon in Shell-Mera Ecuador couldn't sleep because the next door neighbor had a noisy rooster. The surgeon persuaded the neighbor to sell him the rooster, which became Sunday dinner. All was quiet for about a day, until the neighbor bought two more roosters with the money the surgeon had given him.
I’m actually looking forward to the cool weather in Cuenca after living in Texas my whole life. I’m tired of the long hot summers here. They seem to be getting hotter and longer.
Nancy: We live in north Central Florida, and have noticed the last 2 summers were VERY hot. This year has been marked by HEAT & HEAVY RAIN. Seems like we're becoming more TROPICAL, although we're closer to Georgia than Miami ! We lived in Costa Rica for 5 years, at 3500 ft. elevation, and would like to go back permanently some day !
@@marytica123 here in the Houston area in the last 6 or 7 years, we have had 4 major flooding events. Only only one was a hurricane. The heat all over the state is oppressive. Currently there is no where in the USA that we want to move to. So we are going to become expats as least for a few years.
@@nancytrevino9750 If you do move to Latin America, I suggest you LEARN Spanish ! Otherwise, you'll always be another "gringo". The alternative is Belize, where English is the official language.
@@marytica123 I learned some Spanish as a kid and am working on learning more now. My husband is fluent. I did ok when we went to Ecuador for our exploratory trip in March of this year.
My wife and I moved to Cuenca, Ecuador for a year. We could not acclimatize to the altitude. Did not feel living at a lower altitude was safe. Heading to Spain.
We've lived in the countryside just outside of Cuenca for 3 years now. Our home is at about the 10,000' level and it definitely can get cool. We have encountered the "Australian" woman who lost her passport before. She caught up with us at Chifa Nueva near Parque de la Madre. Interesting to learn that she has now lost her Australian accent. Always enjoy your videos. 🙂
#1 is the most important point for me. We need to immerse ourselves in the host country language and culture or they will think that we are arrogant. Don’t try to change the way the do things and always remember the reason why you left your country.
Ecuador is geographically small, compared to its neighbouring countries, but it is very rich in biodiversity, it is ranked number 3 worldwide, but I don't know how their economy is though. Good video
I have 3 young kids, no interest in moving to Ecuador, but I watch all of your videos. Just love to hear your thoughts on living abroad, see the awesome sites, and hear about your life and journey there. This is really a great channel. Thanks!
Excellent report, 100% spot on. I'd like to add that it's easy to mitigate these 10 negatives (kudos to JP for lifestyle changes to better tolerate high altitude), like investing in over-the-ear noise cancelling headphones streaming calm music when the neighborhood volume level is at 11. Also make your home comfortable. When you do that, you don't care that much about what's outside of it that you cannot control.
As an Ecuadorian, I thank you guys for the great information and the effort in making these videos. I have learned a lot more about my country thanks to your channel. So every snippy comment is disrespectful and wrong. Muchas gracias por todo lo que hacen para informarnos 🙌🏻💖
I do not read Ecuadorians being insolent with this channel, we are always kind and nice, I read more comments not kind of foreigners, for example from the US, Europe etc hehe
The weather - I’m from San Francisco and it seems to be the same here in Cuenca. No such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. Pollution - I will never walk down Cordova, you need a hazmat suite. On 12 de Arbil at least you have the river on one side. Traffic - 12 years ago the traffic was really OK. Now it’s a disaster. We went to an Ecuadorian reunion and 100% of the 35 cars there were SUV’s. We were the only sedan. They are just in love with the bigger the better vehicles. On narrow streets. Street crime - don’t show the bling and carry only want you intend to spend, in a money clip. You don’t need to carry your entire financial history in a wallet. I leave the gold ring at home. And I pack a cheap flip phone and a cheap watch. And a good copy of my cedula. Spanish - once I gave up the fear of sounding like a total idiot I now make the clerks smile and we both giggle about my pobre Español. Just another estupido gringo, but with a smile. But we get the job done. Beggars - I have two disabled guys in the Central I always give a buck to when I see them. The disabled always get something. If they’re selling something I’ll usually buy. If it’s the hand out they get the Ecuadorian finger wag before they get close. That usually stops the approach. The altitude - I fear the steps going up the barranca. Never had an issue other than that. Noise - we live in a penthouse along the river. No chickens, no dogs, no car alarms, and the roving fiestas are not tolerated in the building. Sleep like a baby ever night listing to the roar of the river. I’m missing a couple of points here, but your commentary was spot on. Insightful. Thanks.
I’m so happy to found people like you that promote my beautiful home country better than any Ecuadorian. I love to watch your videos and see my beautiful Ecuador! Thanks for doing that!
My parents are from Cuenca and I have traveled here all my life, there is no place I feel as happy as being here, downsides and all. Your video is pretty right on, especially not finding any cabs during a soccer match, hahah. I would spend all my summer vacations in Cuenca as a child and boy, what a difference from the city it is now. I LOVE the Expat community here, it confirms to me what a magical place this truly is. I recently came back to spend some time here with my son and guess what? We were in a restaurant near Parque de la Madre and there walks in the "Australian" lady! I gave her $ but realized there was something really off about what she was saying to me. And then, you mention her in this video. (^_^) It takes all kinds to make a village, or in this case, a city called Cuenca...gotta love it! Great video!
Great video ! I've been to Cuenca twice and love the city. I agree with you on these problems but these are problems in any US city and they don't bother me when I'm in Cuenca. Just enjoy the nice, friendly people. The wonderful food and the beautiful city. I will definitely return to Cuenca since I don't think any of the problems are that bad....
I came to Cuenca after spending time in several huge cities (Buenos Aires, CDMX, Bogota, Medellin…) so it did not feel crowded at all to me…quite the opposite. Sometimes it feels like a ghost town walking around anywhere outside of the centro, especially on a Sunday. I guess it’s all relative to what one is used to.
Great to have found your content guys thanks for sharing the ups and downs of my country. Im Ecuadorian moving in the following months to Cuenca and I found this video really funny because you were spot on the many cute disavantages of living in a small city that is fastly facing the problems of bigger cities. You are wonderful embassadors of our country to the world. Hope the best for you.
I had to leave Cuenca Because of the cold ! I moved there from the Pacific NW and the altitude and the Constantly grey cloudy weather gave me bad arthritis ..
I am Ecuadorian now living in Australia. I think that the Ecuadorian people do not appreciate the culture and gastronomy that we have. The Ecuadorian people and the people of South America need education to improve everything so that you have the best experience around this places. Cuenquita la mejor ciudad de Ecuador a mi parecer aún que yo sea de Quito me encanta esta ciudad y sus cholitas saludos CHAU❤
My mother is from Cuenca Ecuador and Im a born in Virginia boy. I have a lot of family there, but I just don't like the cold weather even though some days gets pretty warm, I have been to Medillin Colombia a few times and I just love the weather, it's 74° all year and there's so many expats living there now and the medical is incredible ......and other things.....
"Home is where the heart is". If you LOVE being there, you SHOULD go back ! We lived in Costa Rica for 5 years, and were forced to return to the USA to help our adult sons thru the 2008 Economic Crisis. But, we've always yearned to RETURN, before we get too old !
I feel very grateful and blessed 😇 for we’re I live here outside of Boston. We live in the country.I was told by a Doctor 👨⚕️ I knew( he was from there) to retire there. This was over 20 years ago. We have a retirement home 🏡 in Northern Florida and now escape New England Winters!
In your listing of aggravating noises, you missed talking about the car alarms. They're always going off and the car owners don't care. They just keep making noise until they time out. My wife and I referred to them as the Ecuadorian National Anthem.
I agree! They are so annoying! The other thing that is really noisy is the gas truck or the fruit truck that passes on the street announcing the fruits and vegetables.
Thanks for keeping it real.. there's another channel I noticed they never mention any downside of Portugal. It's all sunshine and rainbows. Life isn't like that
Couple things: 1. I just found this channel. Thank you for the great content! 2. It sounds like you left Cuenca. Why did you leave, where did you go, and why? (Still reading your blog. Maybe the answer is there.) 3. Amelia - It sounds like you're from Wisconsin. That's awesome. I was born in Cudahy. Nice to find someone from home who is living my dream.
I enjoyed your video about Loja and it really caught my interest. Looking into it now as I'm 68 and want tranquilidad. Would like to find a safe piece of land where I can grow my own vegetables and chickens
Keen observations as usual. Elevation can be a problem, especially if you have some preexisting conditions. I guess that’s what makes Richie Carapaz a world-class cycling champion. Glad you dropped the extra weight JP!
I lived at Lake Tahoe for many years and now I think I’d absolutely love living at 8K or more again….. I love the cold still. I’m now probably too old to be moving there, which breaks my heart.
Thank you for this video! I needed this. I am possibly moving here with my Ecuadorian girlfriend and after hearing all the positives from everyone it's nice to see the negatives so I know what to expect. I can't wait to live here still!
Moved to Cuenca from San Diego just about six years ago. Apart from the chilly weather and the lack of my beautiful beaches, I’ll take Cuenca over most American cities today. You guys have done your due diligence in keeping the grumpiest happy. Please tell me of a city that does not have a dark side. By the way, how many cities does anyone know where you can safely drink water straight out of the faucet? Enjoy your blogs!
Great points. However, during my one week in Cuenca last fall noise was not much of an issue for us. Our biggest issue was my wife getting sick from something she ate. So we did not get to see nearly as much as we wanted. This next trip will be longer.... :-)
Yes, you have to be careful in terms of eating food in Ecuador. Not eating on the streets. Try to find clean and recommended restaurants. Wash always fruits and vegetables.
@@belenzurita3731 We think she got sick from drinking juice mixed with tap water. She is very susceptible. But it could have been the food as well. We were eating at an Ecuadorian home.
Amelia and JP this a non perfect world we live in. I live since I was 11 years old in NYC and I came back to Ecuador . Love NYC !!!! But there was the good and the bad like everywhere. So enjoy and many blessings for a safe and happy life.
Thanks, JP and Amelia for the informative video. The snow is going to start falling in a couple of months where I am and I am not looking forward to it, in fact, I am dreading it. Cuenca would be like summer compared to where I am.
We spent a year in Cuenca and the morning we woke up to frost on the cars windows was the message to move. 11 years in Yunguilla Valley and won't live anywhere else in Ecuador
There is no place on earth where everything is perfect for everybody. Cuenca's weather is very nice from mid september to january. February to May it rains a lot but the temperatures are ok and the sun shows in many days. June, july and august is winter and gets chilly and sometimes cold between 50s at night and 65-68 during the cloudy days. If you live in a condo it wont get as cold as in a house.
This sounds like developing world issues, we have been to west Africa and encountered many of the same issues. I think we all remember that when venturing to these different nations 😊
I am bald on the crown of my head. My son used to give me grief over it. it doesn't phase me all that much. I just told him "As I am now you will be." To this day I hear about his adventures to the hair replacement place. I just laugh and laugh and laugh. Confidence in yourself is key. Let it not worry you or me. Enjoy the weather. It is 95 here today in Tennessee. I am inside so the UV rays don't phase me either. It is always good to hear about how the others enjoy the good life as you do. Now that bothers me that my partner in crime is thwarting "The good life" for me. Have you tried ear plugs and sleep masks to block out the karaoke music? We live a mile or so away from a train track and I don't hear it anymore. Of course, I do take my hearing aids out at night. Hope you get the dogs and roosters under control.
It’s got to be a relief leaving the USA. I’ve been living out of the country now the past 5 years and just the thought of going back there scares me. Glad you’re back in Ecuador but where in Ecuador are you? It seems you’re no longer on the coast, and you keep posting visits to Cuenca so you haven’t relocated there. What town do you call home now and are there videos?
Super excited! We're finally visiting Cuenca for 16 days in November, staying at a location highlighted in one of your videos. Thanks, Amelia & JP, for all your helpful info! My only concern is how to discern a valid vs. inauthentic taxi and are there apps we can download to make reservations.
Friends a technique that we Ecuadorians use is to hire a taxi through an application, if the taxi driver is friendly and reliable we ask for his number to call him again when we need it, or ask for the reference of a reliable taxi driver to a friend who lives in Cuenca or in the hotel give good references
Nice report. We lived in Cuenca for 5 1/2 years, and it was a great experience. I would add the following: Pollution is definitely an issue. Although it isn't a photochemical haze, the ambient quality isn't good - we lived near the Tomabamba River and even there you could smell fumes - the problem may be the quality of the gasoline, the altitude, or the carburation of the vehicles - it's a definite problem and is at the top of the list of why we finally left. On the noise front, a recurring problem all over the place are CAR ALARMS, which go off continually and are a constant annoyance. Yes, security is an issue, not only in respect to getting ripped off, but in respect to the character of residential neighborhoods, in which we find concrete walls, barriers of all kinds, electric fencing - the feeling is like an armed camp and it's highly unaesthetic and unpleasant. I would mention also: The Ecuadorians don't know how to drive safely. Period. I can't tell you how many times, on the road, we felt, "Oh my God, we're gonna die!" When I played with some numbers what it came to is that it was about 10 times more dangerous to be on the road in Ecuador than in the states. I would also add: The terrible Ecuadorian bureaucracy. We had to jump through all kinds of ridiculous hoops, including two government agencies, to hire a gal to work 4 hours a week in our condo - needed an attorney, contracts, etc. Finally, the crafts in Ecuador are, with notably exceptions, disappointing - the quality is just not there. So that's it. It's a small world and you get what you pay for.
Ive been living my whole life in Ecuador and been also driving for around 4 years (Im 23 y/o) and I can tell you that driving in Ecuador is pretty crazy. It´s basically our culture of not following the rules. However, when you go to the neighborhoods where the wealthy use to live, driving there is a lot more decent and people are a lot more respectful.
As a Virginian with Ecuadorian descent you are 100% correct as we have property near that area where you lived but I went to Medillin Colombia many times and that's probably where I'm going to retire because of the 74° all year round weather and the medical is incredible too
if you think driving in ecuador is bad...try colombia or any latam country with a lot of motorcycles. all you see in medellin are scratched cars on all 4 corners due to motorcycles swerving all over the roads(my car is now a victim of this). driving in ecuador is an absolute breeze compared to medellin, bogota, or cali.
@@lovesdogs15 One thing I forgot to mention: In Cuenca, you would have to be out of your mind to even think of biking as a means of transportation unless you are suicidal. One of our friends who tried it told me that cars came so close that he could feel the sleeve of his shirt move as vehicles passed by him. While we were there, a major artist in town was made a cripple in a biking accident.
I live Philippines 15 miles from Taal volcano. Experienced the eruption and the ash two yrs ago..Much silicates like razor blades in the eyes and lungs.Finally we were evacuated
Good list, can confirm. On noise, earplugs are wise. Crime is on the rise, especially the more violent kind, but still not on par with the US. Never had more fun than when I covered "La Vida Loca" with fun Ecuadorians in Karaoke. The expat bubble is more comfortable, but long term, avoid like the plague. Gotta connect with the locals.
Agreed Quinn about the expat bubble. IMHO why move abroad if you’re only going to connect with other expats. Immerse yourself in the local culture to experience the best a new country has to offer. Vital to learn the language!!!
@@talesfromtheleashexpatdogl1426 😁😂🤣 por Exactly, it's like those Latinos who emigrate to the U.S. and the first thing they do is look for Latinos lol por dios amigos si soy latino quiero amigos gringos jaja así aprendo ingles jajaja
I’m glad that you mentioned to learn the language and meet the Ecuadorians. Americans are known in Cuenca for hurting the economy , only getting together between them, plus going only to their own coffee shops .
I know this podcast was two years ago, but I thought I'd comment on the things as they are today (Nov '24). Many of the points you made are still true, but I guess it depends a lot on which part of town you live in and what sort of building you reside in. Basically, I agree that the traffic gets really gnarly during rush hour(s) and the noise of the traffic and the city itself can be quite loud.However, where I live now in the Sector La Cuadra, it's really very quiet with a few exceptions. The barking dogs are no much worse than it was in my condo in Atlanta. The taxis can mysteriously disappear when you most need one, but most of the time I can call one of wave one (less reliably than summoning one via the app). However, the average ride for me rarely costs more than $1.50 (the minimum charge) and I can go most anywhere I want to go for no more than $3.00. If you are a "third age" individual you can ride the (very nice) trolley for $0.17 and I understand ride the buses for free (you do need to get cards to take advantage of these perks). Right now we are in the midst of a drought, so flooding and dealing with rainy weather is not an issue, although the rolling blackouts are a thing... Of course if you live in a nice high-rise with its own backup power plant, that's not as bad as if you cannot depend on fuel powered generators. I am supposedly fluent in Spanish & English, but due to some hearing loss and the way many people talk, fast and not very loud, Ecuadoreans are not loud and boisterous and the accents can be challenging. Some people worry about the medical system, cost, accessibility, etc. I can say from my experience that private medical care is very readily available, the doctors are very good and there are treatment options not available in the USA to regular people. Hyperbaric chamber treatments, stem cell therapy, and more. I had a bleeding ulcer develop and I had to go to the emergency room, a private clinic very nearby. I got immediate high quality care, the emergency doctor called two other doctors I had seen for other reasons, both practice in the same clinic where the emergency room is. One doctor was in the US and the other at home, they both took the calls at 3:00 am and discussed my case, the treatment was administered and I was released, my cost?... $160.00 I'd say that is quick, efficient and extremely affordable for an expat living on retirement income. Anyway, thanks for all the nice, informative videos!
The basic human and down to earth social life is what makes leaving the western legacy countries of the US, Canada and western Europe worthwhile... Infrastructure, pollution, climate issues are just a regional plus or minus.
Thanks guys for this video. BTW, Amelia you're looking fabulous. Love your hair!! Was your pre gray hair dark brown? Asking for a friend considering going gray😉
When we were there in 2019, some American guy approached us asking us to take him to Quito. He just had to get to Quito. He even was hitting up the Ecuadorians.
I was 100% looking at Cuenca until this video it's the pollution bowl I've seen this in a few places do not wish to move into it Plus the traffic noise I can not stand the noise of loud cycles I'm right on the main road in y small town we get the odd one especially on the wkends might get a few but if I had to listen to them all day would drive me insane I guess I'm now looking at more of you videos for another place in Ecuador I do like the cooler weather though sighhh back to the drawing board P.S. going to join your patreon tomorrow you 2 have already been an incredible help
If it feels like Seattle, I want no part. I moved away from there to Costa Rica because of that. I was interested in Cuenca because International Living talks about it a lot. Perhaps a good place to visit though. thanks for the video
Sad reality, but I'm relieved you guys are keeping the location of your residence private and prioritizing Amelia and your security and safety from the crazies. Be well.
@@jorgevillavicenciope910 Most likely antifas from the U.S. you meant to say. There are more chances of dying in the U.S. than in Ecuador most likely. However in Ecuador we're going through an UNPRECEDENTED LEVEL of unsafety and delinquency something never seen before in the history of the country all due to drug trafficking and smugglers. Godspeed this will start to CHANGE after the next referendum
From the point of view of someone who lives on Cuenca I have to say , that prison made cuenca somewhat more dangerous it even has cartel leaders, but you have to be careful specially in some neighborhoods and more if you are from the US or another country so be careful and ask the citizens where it's dangerous. But cuenca it's lovely for sure it's a beautiful city
Thank you my cuties for the honest video... I love Cuenca and Quito and Manta too. I was born & raised in Quito and I remember how there were beggars in many areas and so is Cuenca. I have traveled to over fifty countries and there are beggars and thieves everywhere. The funny thing is not all of them are poor ( some beggars just like do that) Lol just saying
I live in the Galapagos Islands and now we have a beautiful cold climate haha as cold as Cuenca, it is a place with a good climate, the negative of the list are usual things around the world nothing that can not be solved or endure hehe
thank you guys all you stated here is true like you said no city is perfect i like to go out and sketch landscapes and Cuenca is the worst city to practice this because rain can come suddenly and unannounced even when the sun is out massive rain drops can ruin my sketchbook that's my only complaint about my beautiful city that i adore and thank you again for making this videos
Cuenca is the most beautiful city place to live in and to stay for vacation. Whoever is having those bad experiences or looking for cheap places where to stay. Maybe can happen but Cuenca is extraordinarily beautiful, surrounded by by 4 rivers, great transportation, respectful people great food and the best entertainment for any age or any activities of your preferences. Visit Cuenca you will not regret. Cuenca has people from France, Germany, Italian , Poland, Russian and people from all the world.
Ecuador in general: #1 litter, #2 scary dogs, #3 water pollution and raw sewage, #4 (agree) pan handlers at every stop light, restaurants, sidewalks, #5 Ecuador time; always late, but sometimes on time, but one never knows, #6 (agree) noisy country, #7 inconsistency in how anything is done; how you pay a Bill, deal with a Gov't agency, attend orchestra rehearsal, which door you enter, etc. All subject to change at anytime, no notice, no explanation.
Litter is bad outside the cities. We were told that the bus companies used to have signs that read “Keep our bus clean. Throw your trash out the window.” That helped create several generations of litterbugs until the govt told the bus companies to change the signs and provide trash cans inside the buses. The younger generation is better, but we often see older people drop trash while walking or throw it out the window of cars. 😔
🤣All night karaoke is where our family tends to end up at during special occasions so I'm hoping we'll have some built up immunity. I could see how the roosters and pop-up nightclubs might get old very fast. Thanks for sharing!
A girlfriend broke up with me ( very long time ago) because she had invited me to a karaoke but I couldn't stand the noise so I went out to rest my eardrums!
I spent some time in La Paz Bolivia earlier this year and as soon as I arrived I was like woah! This place is cold! It was end of April and I had already been to 3 other cities in Bolivia but the cold weather and elevation did a number in me those 4 days. It was my least favorite. I’m looking for a place to spend the USA winter months starting in January and I really wanted to go to Ecuador but between Quito and Cuenca I don’t think it’s best option for me 🙃🤦♂️…I know there’s other warmer coastal cities but I feel like the WiFi won’t be as strong as the metro bigger cities. So still searching for a country…
Research about Loja (smaller and warmer city also in ecuador) and Vilcabamba ( valley nearby Loja). Loja is smaller, warmer and quieter than cuenca , but is not a coastal city. Vilcabamba and some other places nearby Loja, are warmer and quiet towns.
Most of these 'issues" are normal for a good size city anywhere. The only one is the cold and damp conditions, this might be harder to work around and these days supply chain issues can happen anywhere.
The street noise seems to be a problem in Latin America. Houses in town tend to be close together and built right up to the curb. And the dogs, so many have more than one.
Didn’t hear anything particularly dark to put me off (apart from the jail and the horrible stories coming out of it). I’d say all the rest is just part of Ecuadorian culture and local climate which if if you decide to move here should be embraced. Thanks for your videos 👏
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A nice story to offset the dark side... a few days ago I only had a $20 bill to pay for my $8.64 dinner which arrived by motorcycle. Miguel, the biker, had been paid with large bills prior to my delivery and had no change left. I had already asked around in my building but nobody could change a $20 and neither could the shopkeeper next to my building. I was about to tell Miguel it was his lucky day and to keep the change, but he asked for my phone number and said he would be back later in the day with my change. I thought, okay, maybe it's actually MY lucky day. Five hours later, I get a call from Miguel asking me to come to the entrance of my building. He had my exact change. It was a lucky day for both of us as he drove off with a good tip for his service. "Disculpe la molestia" can go a long way and there's no need for cynicism.
Nice story.
You got Gringoed!
Positive one !
@@justincase4925 How did he get "gringoed," when the delivery guy brought back exact change for him?
@@colico14 I think he didn't understand that the word gringo is an insult in Spanish.
Cuenca is one of the best cities in the world to live in. Absolutely a hidden Gem!!! More and more people are finding out. The food, the views, the people, the climate, and the diversity are excellent. Plus, it is peaceful.
You are absolutely right, Cuenca is not perfect but it's a really nice city to experience. First world cuisine and service for reasonable prices and good food for bargain basement prices. I believe I could eat out three meals a day of decent food for no more than $15.00 per day.
When I walk around the old city and along the banks of the Tomebamba river I think I'm in an old European city... All the charm, half or less the cost, generally friendly and helpful people... Very nice, a hidden gem.
I arrived in Ecuador, for first time, today. Quito. The weather is beautiful. Blue skies and white puffy clouds. I'm staying at Quito Airport Suites. Thanks for the recommendation.
I'm hoping the rest of the next 90 days, traveling Ecuador, is as pleasant as today.
And yes, the Ecuadorians are very patient and helpful with my "Spanglish".
The chilly, cloudy weather is one of my FAVORITE things about Cuenca (I can't stand hot weather)!
Big time!
💕 love the cold weather. =)
I visited Ecuador in the month of March 2023. Stayed in Cuenca for two weeks. I suppose the altitude affects some people more than others. I did not experience any air pollution for the weeks I was there. I interviewed numerous expats and all had nothing but positive experiences in Cuenca, even though I probed to find anything they did not like, they had nothing negative to say. Cuencanos were very friendly and curious about where I lived. From the Airport to the town was very easy using the Tram. Of all the cities I visited, Cuenca was the most charming. I also went to a very small town somewhere in the northern cordillera in a town called Chugchilan where I stayed a week in the ''Cloud Forest Hostal' a very charming place with very pleasant owners who made you feel very comfortable. For a very reasonable fee the owner drove us to the extinct volcano Quilota and back. If you are a trekky, I recommend the hostal and the trek around the Quilota laguna.
Years ago an expat surgeon in Shell-Mera Ecuador couldn't sleep because the next door neighbor had a noisy rooster. The surgeon persuaded the neighbor to sell him the rooster, which became Sunday dinner. All was quiet for about a day, until the neighbor bought two more roosters with the money the surgeon had given him.
😂😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂😂😄😄
😁
Great story😂😂😂
I’m actually looking forward to the cool weather in Cuenca after living in Texas my whole life. I’m tired of the long hot summers here. They seem to be getting hotter and longer.
The 105 temps while we were in Texas were rough after being in the 60s to 80s for over 3 years.
Nancy: We live in north Central Florida, and have noticed the last 2 summers were VERY hot. This year has been marked by HEAT & HEAVY RAIN. Seems like we're becoming more TROPICAL, although we're closer to Georgia than Miami ! We lived in Costa Rica for 5 years, at 3500 ft. elevation, and would like to go back permanently some day !
@@marytica123 here in the Houston area in the last 6 or 7 years, we have had 4 major flooding events. Only only one was a hurricane. The heat all over the state is oppressive. Currently there is no where in the USA that we want to move to. So we are going to become expats as least for a few years.
@@nancytrevino9750 If you do move to Latin America, I suggest you LEARN Spanish ! Otherwise, you'll always be another "gringo". The alternative is Belize, where English is the official language.
@@marytica123 I learned some Spanish as a kid and am working on learning more now. My husband is fluent. I did ok when we went to Ecuador for our exploratory trip in March of this year.
My wife and I moved to Cuenca, Ecuador for a year. We could not acclimatize to the altitude. Did not feel living at a lower altitude was safe. Heading to Spain.
We've lived in the countryside just outside of Cuenca for 3 years now. Our home is at about the 10,000' level and it definitely can get cool. We have encountered the "Australian" woman who lost her passport before. She caught up with us at Chifa Nueva near Parque de la Madre. Interesting to learn that she has now lost her Australian accent. Always enjoy your videos. 🙂
We thought so too! 😂
I think she is South African....She is "with" an Ecuadorian man so she is legal.
#1 is the most important point for me. We need to immerse ourselves in the host country language and culture or they will think that we are arrogant. Don’t try to change the way the do things and always remember the reason why you left your country.
Ecuador is geographically small, compared to its neighbouring countries, but it is very rich in biodiversity, it is ranked number 3 worldwide, but I don't know how their economy is though. Good video
I have 3 young kids, no interest in moving to Ecuador, but I watch all of your videos. Just love to hear your thoughts on living abroad, see the awesome sites, and hear about your life and journey there. This is really a great channel. Thanks!
Excellent report, 100% spot on. I'd like to add that it's easy to mitigate these 10 negatives (kudos to JP for lifestyle changes to better tolerate high altitude), like investing in over-the-ear noise cancelling headphones streaming calm music when the neighborhood volume level is at 11. Also make your home comfortable. When you do that, you don't care that much about what's outside of it that you cannot control.
Great suggestion! 👍
Yes, making your home comfortable is important!
We absolutely LOVE cool weather. We both grew up in hot humid cities and can’t tolerate it any longer.
You are a definitely beautiful couple... I really love how you find the positive things in the middle of the negative... Thanks...
Gracias! 😊
As an Ecuadorian, I thank you guys for the great information and the effort in making these videos. I have learned a lot more about my country thanks to your channel. So every snippy comment is disrespectful and wrong.
Muchas gracias por todo lo que hacen para informarnos 🙌🏻💖
Gracias! 😊
Estoy en deacuerdo con este. (Digo un estrangero.)
I do not read Ecuadorians being insolent with this channel, we are always kind and nice, I read more comments not kind of foreigners, for example from the US, Europe etc hehe
Ecuador has a very polite culture, which is great. Their Spanish is correct "book" Spanish.
Ok. I like peace and quiet. I already know I would be annoyed.😖
The weather - I’m from San Francisco and it seems to be the same here in Cuenca. No such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. Pollution - I will never walk down Cordova, you need a hazmat suite. On 12 de Arbil at least you have the river on one side. Traffic - 12 years ago the traffic was really OK. Now it’s a disaster. We went to an Ecuadorian reunion and 100% of the 35 cars there were SUV’s. We were the only sedan. They are just in love with the bigger the better vehicles. On narrow streets. Street crime - don’t show the bling and carry only want you intend to spend, in a money clip. You don’t need to carry your entire financial history in a wallet. I leave the gold ring at home. And I pack a cheap flip phone and a cheap watch. And a good copy of my cedula. Spanish - once I gave up the fear of sounding like a total idiot I now make the clerks smile and we both giggle about my pobre Español. Just another estupido gringo, but with a smile. But we get the job done. Beggars - I have two disabled guys in the Central I always give a buck to when I see them. The disabled always get something. If they’re selling something I’ll usually buy. If it’s the hand out they get the Ecuadorian finger wag before they get close. That usually stops the approach. The altitude - I fear the steps going up the barranca. Never had an issue other than that. Noise - we live in a penthouse along the river. No chickens, no dogs, no car alarms, and the roving fiestas are not tolerated in the building. Sleep like a baby ever night listing to the roar of the river. I’m missing a couple of points here, but your commentary was spot on. Insightful. Thanks.
Thanks for the great info.
I’m so happy to found people like you that promote my beautiful home country better than any Ecuadorian. I love to watch your videos and see my beautiful Ecuador! Thanks for doing that!
My parents are from Cuenca and I have traveled here all my life, there is no place I feel as happy as being here, downsides and all. Your video is pretty right on, especially not finding any cabs during a soccer match, hahah. I would spend all my summer vacations in Cuenca as a child and boy, what a difference from the city it is now. I LOVE the Expat community here, it confirms to me what a magical place this truly is.
I recently came back to spend some time here with my son and guess what? We were in a restaurant near Parque de la Madre and there walks in the "Australian" lady! I gave her $ but realized there was something really off about what she was saying to me. And then, you mention her in this video. (^_^)
It takes all kinds to make a village, or in this case, a city called Cuenca...gotta love it! Great video!
It is a magical city! 😊🇪🇨
Great video ! I've been to Cuenca twice and love the city. I agree with you on these problems but these are problems in any US city and they don't bother me when I'm in Cuenca. Just enjoy the nice, friendly people. The wonderful food and the beautiful city. I will definitely return to Cuenca since I don't think any of the problems are that bad....
I think you're right plus everything is relative. Also, some of these 'problems' are not found on every street in every sector in Cuenca.
I came to Cuenca after spending time in several huge cities (Buenos Aires, CDMX, Bogota, Medellin…) so it did not feel crowded at all to me…quite the opposite. Sometimes it feels like a ghost town walking around anywhere outside of the centro, especially on a Sunday. I guess it’s all relative to what one is used to.
Being gone for so long in less populated areas may have affected our perspective 👍
I LOVE MEDILLIN.....CANT WAIT TO GO BACK
Great to have found your content guys thanks for sharing the ups and downs of my country. Im Ecuadorian moving in the following months to Cuenca and I found this video really funny because you were spot on the many cute disavantages of living in a small city that is fastly facing the problems of bigger cities. You are wonderful embassadors of our country to the world. Hope the best for you.
Muchas gracias! 😊🇪🇨
Great information! Tracie and I are headed to Ecuador later in the year for our first exploratory visit! Thank you for the candor in this video!
Glad it was helpful!
I am working on moving there soon, looks so beautiful🌻
I had to leave Cuenca Because of the cold ! I moved there from the Pacific NW and the altitude and the Constantly grey cloudy weather gave me bad arthritis ..
I am Ecuadorian now living in Australia. I think that the Ecuadorian people do not appreciate the culture and gastronomy that we have. The Ecuadorian people and the people of South America need education to improve everything so that you have the best experience around this places. Cuenquita la mejor ciudad de Ecuador a mi parecer aún que yo sea de Quito me encanta esta ciudad y sus cholitas saludos CHAU❤
My mother is from Cuenca Ecuador and Im a born in Virginia boy. I have a lot of family there, but I just don't like the cold weather even though some days gets pretty warm, I have been to Medillin Colombia a few times and I just love the weather, it's 74° all year and there's so many expats living there now and the medical is incredible ......and other things.....
You are so right about not being in an "expat bubble". I have seen this in other countries and it's truly an unnecessary struggle.
Saludos desde Cuenca Ecuador 🤗🥰👏
I've been there & can't wait to get back to Cuenca!! To be honest every place has its negatives but Totally felt at home there !!
We still love it too! Despite the cons!
"Home is where the heart is". If you LOVE being there, you SHOULD go back ! We lived in Costa Rica for 5 years, and were forced to return to the USA to help our adult sons thru the 2008 Economic Crisis. But, we've always yearned to RETURN, before we get too old !
Lived here for 11 years. No issue with anything you’ve mentioned. Cuenca is 100% the best. No more diesel buses.
Too much complaining. You aren’t in the US anymore.Different culture. If you don’t like the culture then leave.
Don’t live downtown! Live in the suburbs.
I feel very grateful and blessed 😇 for we’re I live here outside of Boston. We live in the country.I was told by a Doctor 👨⚕️ I knew( he was from there) to retire there. This was over 20 years ago. We have a retirement home 🏡 in Northern Florida and now escape New England Winters!
In your listing of aggravating noises, you missed talking about the car alarms. They're always going off and the car owners don't care. They just keep making noise until they time out. My wife and I referred to them as the Ecuadorian National Anthem.
Haha! So true! And house alarms too!
For me also, the car alarms are THE MOST IRRITATING!!! Night and day and it seems nobody cares one way or another that the alarm is going off.
I agree! They are so annoying! The other thing that is really noisy is the gas truck or the fruit truck that passes on the street announcing the fruits and vegetables.
In Lima, Peru where I lived about ten years ago, I referred to those damn alarms as the Peruvian National anthem.
Trust me us Ecuadorians find it annoying too, how inconsiderate ppl are at times is definitely a con.
Always excellent Content guys… much appreciated for knowledge about Ecuador 🇪🇨
Thanks for keeping it real.. there's another channel I noticed they never mention any downside of Portugal. It's all sunshine and rainbows. Life isn't like that
If you have enough money, it pretty much is all sunshine. The one family I've watched living in Portugal have that much money .
As always, thanks for the fine information. Very appreciative that you consider the expat-bubble a Con. Kudos!
Thanks so much for sharing - again 😊
I will definitely check out the city - - as I will check out all the other great places in Ecuador 😊
Your hair looks great, Amelia! Love both the style and color.
Couple things:
1. I just found this channel. Thank you for the great content!
2. It sounds like you left Cuenca. Why did you leave, where did you go, and why? (Still reading your blog. Maybe the answer is there.)
3. Amelia - It sounds like you're from Wisconsin. That's awesome. I was born in Cudahy. Nice to find someone from home who is living my dream.
Thanks for the hard work and the newsletter. God bless!
I fell in love with Ecuador. I can't wait to come back. I'd like to retire there or Guatemala.
I enjoyed your video about Loja and it really caught my interest. Looking into it now as I'm 68 and want tranquilidad. Would like to find a safe piece of land where I can grow my own vegetables and chickens
Keen observations as usual. Elevation can be a problem, especially if you have some preexisting conditions. I guess that’s what makes Richie Carapaz a world-class cycling champion. Glad you dropped the extra weight JP!
The Carchi Locomotive does have an advantage!
Yes, it sounds great but the elevation would be a problem for me.
Spent about three weeks in Ecuador, Guayaquil, Cuenca, and Guarumales, it was amazing.
I lived at Lake Tahoe for many years and now I think I’d absolutely love living at 8K or more again….. I love the cold still. I’m now probably too old to be moving there, which breaks my heart.
What's 8K ? Your earnings?
Thank you for this video! I needed this. I am possibly moving here with my Ecuadorian girlfriend and after hearing all the positives from everyone it's nice to see the negatives so I know what to expect. I can't wait to live here still!
but to be honest none of this seems like it was worth making a whole video about. Felt nit picky.
Thank you for your #1 ... It's exactly what so many need to be reminded of. ❤️
Moved to Cuenca from San Diego just about six years ago. Apart from the chilly weather and the lack of my beautiful beaches, I’ll take Cuenca over most American cities today. You guys have done your due diligence in keeping the grumpiest happy. Please tell me of a city that does not have a dark side. By the way, how many cities does anyone know where you can safely drink water straight out of the faucet? Enjoy your blogs!
How does it compare to San Diego? I’m considering moving to San Diego from la (I’m sick of la) but I reaaally don’t want to pay San Diego prices lol
Great points. However, during my one week in Cuenca last fall noise was not much of an issue for us. Our biggest issue was my wife getting sick from something she ate. So we did not get to see nearly as much as we wanted. This next trip will be longer.... :-)
Yes, you have to be careful in terms of eating food in Ecuador. Not eating on the streets. Try to find clean and recommended restaurants. Wash always fruits and vegetables.
@@belenzurita3731 We think she got sick from drinking juice mixed with tap water. She is very susceptible. But it could have been the food as well. We were eating at an Ecuadorian home.
Thank for your your videos they help me in my immigration decision.
Amelia and JP this a non perfect world we live in.
I live since I was 11 years old in NYC and I came back to Ecuador .
Love NYC !!!!
But there was the good and the bad like everywhere.
So enjoy and many blessings for a safe and happy life.
Thanks, JP and Amelia for the informative video. The snow is going to start falling in a couple of months where I am and I am not looking forward to it, in fact, I am dreading it. Cuenca would be like summer compared to where I am.
We spent a year in Cuenca and the morning we woke up to frost on the cars windows was the message to move. 11 years in Yunguilla Valley and won't live anywhere else in Ecuador
Despite all the bad, I love the Andean area, Cuenca, the valleys of Quito, Ambato, loja, Ibarra, santo domingo, macara etc.
Thanks for the stories. Your stories are similar to where I reside in Cartagena, Colombia. ☺
By the way, I love your story's of Ecuador!😀
There is no place on earth where everything is perfect for everybody. Cuenca's weather is very nice from mid september to january. February to May it rains a lot but the temperatures are ok and the sun shows in many days. June, july and august is winter and gets chilly and sometimes cold between 50s at night and 65-68 during the cloudy days. If you live in a condo it wont get as cold as in a house.
July is winter? Dang. That's when I'm going lol
@@josevanreyesNot at all..
This sounds like developing world issues, we have been to west Africa and encountered many of the same issues. I think we all remember that when venturing to these different nations 😊
I am bald on the crown of my head. My son used to give me grief over it. it doesn't phase me all that much. I just told him "As I am now you will be." To this day I hear about his adventures to the hair replacement place. I just laugh and laugh and laugh. Confidence in yourself is key. Let it not worry you or me. Enjoy the weather. It is 95 here today in Tennessee. I am inside so the UV rays don't phase me either. It is always good to hear about how the others enjoy the good life as you do. Now that bothers me that my partner in crime is thwarting "The good life" for me. Have you tried ear plugs and sleep masks to block out the karaoke music? We live a mile or so away from a train track and I don't hear it anymore. Of course, I do take my hearing aids out at night. Hope you get the dogs and roosters under control.
Thanks for the video, guys! I will be going back to Cuenca in March. The housing prices still seem OK thankfully...
It’s got to be a relief leaving the USA. I’ve been living out of the country now the past 5 years and just the thought of going back there scares me. Glad you’re back in Ecuador but where in Ecuador are you? It seems you’re no longer on the coast, and you keep posting visits to Cuenca so you haven’t relocated there. What town do you call home now and are there videos?
Per replies on many of the most recent vids, they've had to stop sharing their location due to safety issues.
I love you guys. There's quite a few volcanoes there heard. Thanks again for all you do please take care.
Super excited! We're finally visiting Cuenca for 16 days in November, staying at a location highlighted in one of your videos. Thanks, Amelia & JP, for all your helpful info! My only concern is how to discern a valid vs. inauthentic taxi and are there apps we can download to make reservations.
We recommend AzuTaxi.
@@AmeliaAndJP Thank you! 🙏
Friends a technique that we Ecuadorians use is to hire a taxi through an application, if the taxi driver is friendly and reliable we ask for his number to call him again when we need it, or ask for the reference of a reliable taxi driver to a friend who lives in Cuenca or in the hotel give good references
And in Quito there is Uber
I'm surprised that you never mentioned the number of stray dogs and cats.
I believe they handle cats very badly ( I m a " 🐱 person")
@@lioneldemun6033 I'm also a cat person. I always feel bad whenever I see a stray.
You can always come back and visit the Montañita, Olon, Curia and San José area
According to the World Peace Index, Ecuador is the 88th most violent place on Earth, America is 36th. I feel safe in Ecuador
The overhead flight path...i have spent a lot of time adjacent to LAX. But good reminder its not heavy air traffic in Cuenca
Nice report. We lived in Cuenca for 5 1/2 years, and it was a great experience. I would add the following: Pollution is definitely an issue. Although it isn't a photochemical haze, the ambient quality isn't good - we lived near the Tomabamba River and even there you could smell fumes - the problem may be the quality of the gasoline, the altitude, or the carburation of the vehicles - it's a definite problem and is at the top of the list of why we finally left. On the noise front, a recurring problem all over the place are CAR ALARMS, which go off continually and are a constant annoyance. Yes, security is an issue, not only in respect to getting ripped off, but in respect to the character of residential neighborhoods, in which we find concrete walls, barriers of all kinds, electric fencing - the feeling is like an armed camp and it's highly unaesthetic and unpleasant. I would mention also: The Ecuadorians don't know how to drive safely. Period. I can't tell you how many times, on the road, we felt, "Oh my God, we're gonna die!" When I played with some numbers what it came to is that it was about 10 times more dangerous to be on the road in Ecuador than in the states. I would also add: The terrible Ecuadorian bureaucracy. We had to jump through all kinds of ridiculous hoops, including two government agencies, to hire a gal to work 4 hours a week in our condo - needed an attorney, contracts, etc. Finally, the crafts in Ecuador are, with notably exceptions, disappointing - the quality is just not there. So that's it. It's a small world and you get what you pay for.
Ive been living my whole life in Ecuador and been also driving for around 4 years (Im 23 y/o) and I can tell you that driving in Ecuador is pretty crazy. It´s basically our culture of not following the rules. However, when you go to the neighborhoods where the wealthy use to live, driving there is a lot more decent and people are a lot more respectful.
This is the first comment I've read that's writen by an adult. Thank you.
As a Virginian with Ecuadorian descent you are 100% correct as we have property near that area where you lived but I went to Medillin Colombia many times and that's probably where I'm going to retire because of the 74° all year round weather and the medical is incredible too
if you think driving in ecuador is bad...try colombia or any latam country with a lot of motorcycles. all you see in medellin are scratched cars on all 4 corners due to motorcycles swerving all over the roads(my car is now a victim of this). driving in ecuador is an absolute breeze compared to medellin, bogota, or cali.
@@lovesdogs15 One thing I forgot to mention: In Cuenca, you would have to be out of your mind to even think of biking as a means of transportation unless you are suicidal. One of our friends who tried it told me that cars came so close that he could feel the sleeve of his shirt move as vehicles passed by him. While we were there, a major artist in town was made a cripple in a biking accident.
Thank you for this video, very honest and I appreciate it. JP I liked your version of the motorcycle noise .....
Great video! greetings from Canada
You guys are great thank you
Gracias!
I have live in Ecuador over 10 years and I will never get used to the noise - especially the parties late at night.
I live Philippines 15 miles from Taal volcano.
Experienced the eruption and the ash two yrs ago..Much silicates like razor blades in the eyes and lungs.Finally we were evacuated
I visited lake Taal with a friend, now deceased, who married a Filipino woman, in 1983.
Thank you for another great video. I cant wait to officially move there as a retiree.
Good list, can confirm. On noise, earplugs are wise. Crime is on the rise, especially the more violent kind, but still not on par with the US. Never had more fun than when I covered "La Vida Loca" with fun Ecuadorians in Karaoke. The expat bubble is more comfortable, but long term, avoid like the plague. Gotta connect with the locals.
Thanks for sharing! 👍
Agreed Quinn about the expat bubble. IMHO why move abroad if you’re only going to connect with other expats. Immerse yourself in the local culture to experience the best a new country has to offer. Vital to learn the language!!!
@@talesfromtheleashexpatdogl1426 😁😂🤣 por Exactly, it's like those Latinos who emigrate to the U.S. and the first thing they do is look for Latinos lol por dios amigos si soy latino quiero amigos gringos jaja así aprendo ingles jajaja
I’m glad that you mentioned to learn the language and meet the Ecuadorians.
Americans are known in Cuenca for hurting the economy , only getting together between them, plus going only to their own coffee shops .
I know this podcast was two years ago, but I thought I'd comment on the things as they are today (Nov '24). Many of the points you made are still true, but I guess it depends a lot on which part of town you live in and what sort of building you reside in. Basically, I agree that the traffic gets really gnarly during rush hour(s) and the noise of the traffic and the city itself can be quite loud.However, where I live now in the Sector La Cuadra, it's really very quiet with a few exceptions. The barking dogs are no much worse than it was in my condo in Atlanta.
The taxis can mysteriously disappear when you most need one, but most of the time I can call one of wave one (less reliably than summoning one via the app). However, the average ride for me rarely costs more than $1.50 (the minimum charge) and I can go most anywhere I want to go for no more than $3.00. If you are a "third age" individual you can ride the (very nice) trolley for $0.17 and I understand ride the buses for free (you do need to get cards to take advantage of these perks).
Right now we are in the midst of a drought, so flooding and dealing with rainy weather is not an issue, although the rolling blackouts are a thing... Of course if you live in a nice high-rise with its own backup power plant, that's not as bad as if you cannot depend on fuel powered generators. I am supposedly fluent in Spanish & English, but due to some hearing loss and the way many people talk, fast and not very loud, Ecuadoreans are not loud and boisterous and the accents can be challenging.
Some people worry about the medical system, cost, accessibility, etc. I can say from my experience that private medical care is very readily available, the doctors are very good and there are treatment options not available in the USA to regular people. Hyperbaric chamber treatments, stem cell therapy, and more. I had a bleeding ulcer develop and I had to go to the emergency room, a private clinic very nearby. I got immediate high quality care, the emergency doctor called two other doctors I had seen for other reasons, both practice in the same clinic where the emergency room is. One doctor was in the US and the other at home, they both took the calls at 3:00 am and discussed my case, the treatment was administered and I was released, my cost?... $160.00 I'd say that is quick, efficient and extremely affordable for an expat living on retirement income.
Anyway, thanks for all the nice, informative videos!
The basic human and down to earth social life is what makes leaving the western legacy countries of the US, Canada and western Europe worthwhile...
Infrastructure, pollution, climate issues are just a regional plus or minus.
Thanks guys for this video. BTW, Amelia you're looking fabulous. Love your hair!! Was your pre gray hair dark brown? Asking for a friend considering going gray😉
Gracias! Yes, it used to be dark brown.
@@AmeliaAndJP well it's simply stunning. Thank you for the reply ☺️
When we were there in 2019, some American guy approached us asking us to take him to Quito. He just had to get to Quito. He even was hitting up the Ecuadorians.
I was 100% looking at Cuenca until this video it's the pollution bowl I've seen this in a few places do not wish to move into it Plus the traffic noise I can not stand the noise of loud cycles I'm right on the main road in y small town we get the odd one especially on the wkends might get a few but if I had to listen to them all day would drive me insane I guess I'm now looking at more of you videos for another place in Ecuador I do like the cooler weather though sighhh back to the drawing board P.S. going to join your patreon tomorrow you 2 have already been an incredible help
If it feels like Seattle, I want no part. I moved away from there to Costa Rica because of that. I was interested in Cuenca because International Living talks about it a lot. Perhaps a good place to visit though. thanks for the video
Cold in Equator? Lots and lots of US brightest people believe it must be hot. If that is the most negative, still sounds a great place to be
Sad reality, but I'm relieved you guys are keeping the location of your residence private and prioritizing Amelia and your security and safety from the crazies. Be well.
Most of the crazies I experienced are in northern Idaho extreme MAGAs
@@jorgevillavicenciope910 Most likely antifas from the U.S. you meant to say. There are more chances of dying in the U.S. than in Ecuador most likely. However in Ecuador we're going through an UNPRECEDENTED LEVEL of unsafety and delinquency something never seen before in the history of the country all due to drug trafficking and smugglers. Godspeed this will start to CHANGE after the next referendum
@@jorgevillavicenciope910 Is there a lot of crime in northern Idaho?
I love it all - so funny! Looking forward to it all when I mo
From the point of view of someone who lives on Cuenca I have to say , that prison made cuenca somewhat more dangerous it even has cartel leaders, but you have to be careful specially in some neighborhoods and more if you are from the US or another country so be careful and ask the citizens where it's dangerous. But cuenca it's lovely for sure it's a beautiful city
Thank you my cuties for the honest video... I love Cuenca and Quito and Manta too. I was born & raised in Quito and I remember how there were beggars in many areas and so is Cuenca. I have traveled to over fifty countries and there are beggars and thieves everywhere. The funny thing is not all of them are poor ( some beggars just like do that) Lol just saying
I live in the Galapagos Islands and now we have a beautiful cold climate haha as cold as Cuenca, it is a place with a good climate, the negative of the list are usual things around the world nothing that can not be solved or endure hehe
I have been in Cuenca for over a year and agree with your list but I love it here, I usually can't wait to get back when I leave.
I found this video very thorough about my city! But I still insist Cuenca is the gem of Ecuador, Greetings ☮
thank you guys
all you stated here is true
like you said no city is perfect
i like to go out and sketch landscapes
and Cuenca is the worst city to practice this because
rain can come suddenly and unannounced even when the sun is out
massive rain drops can ruin my sketchbook
that's my only complaint about my beautiful city
that i adore
and thank you again for making this videos
Cuenca is the most beautiful city place to live in and to stay for vacation. Whoever is having those bad experiences or looking for cheap places where to stay. Maybe can happen but Cuenca is extraordinarily beautiful, surrounded by by 4 rivers, great transportation, respectful people great food and the best entertainment for any age or any activities of your preferences. Visit Cuenca you will not regret. Cuenca has people from France, Germany, Italian , Poland, Russian and people from all the world.
We agree. Cuenca is magical.
About the elevation verify you iron level thats was happening to me check your red cel levels in case of an anemia
Ecuador in general: #1 litter, #2 scary dogs, #3 water pollution and raw sewage, #4 (agree) pan handlers at every stop light, restaurants, sidewalks, #5 Ecuador time; always late, but sometimes on time, but one never knows, #6 (agree) noisy country, #7 inconsistency in how anything is done; how you pay a Bill, deal with a Gov't agency, attend orchestra rehearsal, which door you enter, etc. All subject to change at anytime, no notice, no explanation.
Litter is bad outside the cities. We were told that the bus companies used to have signs that read “Keep our bus clean. Throw your trash out the window.” That helped create several generations of litterbugs until the govt told the bus companies to change the signs and provide trash cans inside the buses. The younger generation is better, but we often see older people drop trash while walking or throw it out the window of cars. 😔
Doesn't seem attractive to me....litter being one of my pet peeves anywhere
🤣All night karaoke is where our family tends to end up at during special occasions so I'm hoping we'll have some built up immunity. I could see how the roosters and pop-up nightclubs might get old very fast. Thanks for sharing!
A girlfriend broke up with me ( very long time ago) because she had invited me to a karaoke but I couldn't stand the noise so I went out to rest my eardrums!
I spent some time in La Paz Bolivia earlier this year and as soon as I arrived I was like woah! This place is cold! It was end of April and I had already been to 3 other cities in Bolivia but the cold weather and elevation did a number in me those 4 days. It was my least favorite. I’m looking for a place to spend the USA winter months starting in January and I really wanted to go to Ecuador but between Quito and Cuenca I don’t think it’s best option for me 🙃🤦♂️…I know there’s other warmer coastal cities but I feel like the WiFi won’t be as strong as the metro bigger cities. So still searching for a country…
Research about Loja (smaller and warmer city also in ecuador) and Vilcabamba ( valley nearby Loja). Loja is smaller, warmer and quieter than cuenca , but is not a coastal city. Vilcabamba and some other places nearby Loja, are warmer and quiet towns.
Very informative video, thank you.😇
I was in Cuenca 30 years ago, long before it became an expat haven. How things have changed.
Most of these 'issues" are normal for a good size city anywhere. The only one is the cold and damp conditions, this might be harder to work around and these days supply chain issues can happen anywhere.
The street noise seems to be a problem in Latin America. Houses in town tend to be close together and built right up to the curb. And the dogs, so many have more than one.
Didn’t hear anything particularly dark to put me off (apart from the jail and the horrible stories coming out of it). I’d say all the rest is just part of Ecuadorian culture and local climate which if if you decide to move here should be embraced. Thanks for your videos 👏
Amelia, your hair looks so nice!
Gracias!