Member Q&A Video Index

This is the index of ALL the questions we’ve answered in our monthly Question & Answer videos over on Patreon.

If you have a question, you can do a website search by clicking the little magnifying glass on the upper right and entering a search term.

Or, you can search for a single word on this page by using the “find” feature. Click Command+f on a Mac or Ctrl+f on a PC and type a word in the find box that appears on the upper right of the browser window.

If you would like us to answer one of YOUR questions in the next video, drop us a note through our contact form or join our Band of Unconventionals for top priority!

July 2021

I am planning on my move to Ecuador within the next year. What would you suggest is the best time for this?

What hotels or apartments in Cuenca will allow me to keep a (large) dog?

Is October a good month to move to Cuenca?

How long does it take to get a cedula and temporary visa if all the paperwork is in order when I arrive?

What is the warmest and sunniest month in Manta?

I’ve heard you mention in your videos that the newer high rise condo buildings in Manta have been built to hopefully withstand any major structural damage during an earthquake. Do you know if the same holds true for newer homes in developments like Ciudad Del Mar?

I recently saw a video saying that there are discounts for people over 65. Is that for residents (citizens?) only or does it also count for visa holders?

I have been trying to find out if my retirement and social security will be taxed by the Ecuadorian government when I move there and have it transferred into a local bank. Can you discuss expat taxes in Ecuador?

How common is smoking in Ecuador? Are people allowed to smoke in restaurants and bars?

Other than VIP Home Healthcare of Cuenca Ecuador, what elder care options are available to expats in Ecuador? Do they have Long Term Care or Retirement Homes?

I know from watching your videos, that when you lived in Olón you bought your fresh fruits and veggies at the small corner mercaditos. Do they have those in Manta, or do you have to buy your produce at the large grocery stores?

I find it very hard to find a condo or apartment in Manta for a month. We are looking on the Beach in the sector of Murcielago, which is our first choice since it is so close to everything. Do you have any idea ? We looked at vrbo, airbnb, but we will be 3 couples (6 persons) and this will be our exploratory trip because we want to move to Ecuador in a year or so.

Is there anything like Uber there?

Are dogs allowed in restaurants and stores?

Has the Penthouse Apartment on your video sold?

I am planning a move to Ecuador within the next year. Currently many airlines are not accepting dogs as cargo. I have a Collie, 72 lbs and a Scottie, 22lbs. I cannot move without my dogs. Do you have any suggestions?

Can you leave a link somewhere to the young lady who teaches Spanish over the internet?

What about WiFi and internet service providers in Ecuador?

What about tipping customs in Ecuador?

Why is it bad to overpay for things in Ecuador?

Why do we call ourselves expats instead of immigrants?

Why do we call ourselves Americans?

July 2021 Video

June 2021

Are there options for climate controlled storage of household goods in Ecuador? The context would be getting a container of household items delivered to Ecuador and then having more flexibility to move there in a year or two.

I belong to a few Meetup.org groups here at home in the US. I know there are groups in European countries. I was wondering if you are aware of any such thing in Ecuador?

We plan to hire a driver for our upcoming trip to Ecuador to do some exploring for potential relocation. We’d like some advice on negotiating cost with the driver. And is tipping expected?

If we live in Ecuador 9 months out of the year, does it make sense to rent yearly or find something each time and have a place to store things?

Hearing that Ecuador is such a friendly country and the people are so accommodating and friendly why do many expatriates live in gated or security protected communities?

I am a 61 year old woman. Is Ecuador safe for me to live alone?

I keep hearing that there are many English Speakers in Cuenca. If we arrive with no Spanish at all, will we be able to get by?

What advice do you have for someone arriving at Cuenca airport regarding getting a taxi?

Are there any pet boarding facilities in the Manta area? If not, do you have to board your pets at the local veterinary hospital? Or, are there any other options such as pet sitters?

Can you purchase 2nd or 3rd generation night vision goggles and 4K night vision outdoor home surveillance systems in Ecuador. If so, where is a good place to look or inquire for these items?

Can you talk about the threat of earthquakes and if we should worry?

Before the pandemic, there were several Spanish schools in Cuenca offering one-on-one in-person instruction. Do you know if that has resumed yet?

Can you comment on seasonal allergies (aka “hay fever”) in Ecuador? It seems to me that there would always be something in bloom there.

Are there programs on the coast which teach English as a Foreign Language?

I’ve been hearing that a number of American air carriers are not permitting dogs to be put in the cargo area of the plane. Do you happen to know anything about this regarding anyone who may have recently traveled from the states to Ecuador with pets?

Do you need a Cedula to qualify for the vaccine?

At the vaccination centers, can you choose which vaccine you get? If you decline a certain type, does it impact whether you can come at another time?

If you don’t have a voter’s registration card, how can you find out about getting the vaccine?

After the recent visa changes, is it still the case that you have to get a new background check at visa renewal time if you visit the US? What if you visit another country (like Costa Rica) as an American citizen?

Are there endocrinologists and podiatrists in Manta or Cuenca?

Why do they ask for your passport or cedula to get gas or buy a shirt at the mall in Ecuador?

June 2021 Video

May 2021

Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

New President Guillermo Lasso promised to get half the country vaccinated against COVID-19 in his first 100 days in office. Has the government announced specifically how it’s going to happen, such as where they’ll get that many vaccine doses and how they’ll be distributed? Also, any word on whether they’ll accept Moderna vaccines for entry soon? New Vaccine Registration Site: https://lugarvacunacion.cne.gob.ec/

Is there any place in particular you think we should have on our ‘must see’ list in Manta?

CNBC named Patreon and Discord as two of the top 50 disruptors in their recent survey of most important platforms today. Way to go JP and Amelia!

What is the price of a dozen roses at the Mercado or flower market? Is there typically a flower market in most cities like they have in Cuenca?

How much are rents for water-view condos in Manta?

Which of the places that you’ve lived in Ecuador do you like best and why?

In the US hearing aids are extremely expensive and not covered by Medicare or many other insurance plans. Do you know anything about hearing aids in Ecuador?

What is the brand of chocolate that Amelia likes and where may I buy it in Manta?

I noticed that you lived in a very cute house in the El Vergel area of Cuenca. Have you heard anything about rent prices going up since you left (particularly in the nicer areas, such as the one mentioned)?

I had read about food scarcity in various places during COVID shutdowns. Did you have any difficulty? Where does most of your food on the coast come from?

What is the attitude about hiring locals to cook or clean? Do they appreciate the employment? Or do they feel as if they are being turned into servants for the English speaking community?

You’ve spoken about the fact that Manta had few options for vegan food dishes in restaurants. Over time, do you think it will become quite challenging? I know how much you two love to dine out. You must be missing Cuenca’s Indian food!

I sleep with a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, are there sleep stores in Manta or Cuenca where nose pillows, filters, masks can be purchased?

Have you been able to check other places in Manta with affordable rent, other than sea side? Also, are you going to be visiting Montecristi where the Panama hats are made?

I would like to build a house on property I own located on the Andean foothills overlooking the Amazon basin in Morona Santiago Province. Do you have any suggestions as to where I should look for a reputable builder in Ecuador?

Since the Tranvia price in Cuenca is going down to $.30, do senior citizen pay $.15 and can you get a multiple ride card or monthly pass for the tram or bus rides?

Since they just changed the registration process for vaccines. How do you think expats will have to go about getting vaxxed since we can’t register to vote?

May 2021 Video

April 2021

How common are parasites there? What can be done to prevent getting one?

How easy is it to purchase cheese and greek yoghurt?

When you can once again travel freely within Ecuador, what areas are at the top of your list?

Will mom need dad’s permission to take their daughter out of US to get a visa to live in Ecuador?

What are the laws around bringing personally owned firearms?

Can you receive care packages (toiletries, vitamins, etc) from family back in the US?

How reliable are the “muling” services? Are they expensive?

Why are there no direct flights between Cuenca and Guayaquil? Could it be that would adversely affect the bus companies?

Is it safe to leave your ebikes while you are shopping or eating? Do you lock them with a bike lock or do they have a key?

Is Olón everything you hoped it would be OR are you thinking of moving again. If so why?

I see that there is a curfew from Friday night through to Monday morning. Do you interpret that as a complete don’t-go-out-of-your home restriction?

What type of cell phone do you recommend to bring as a spare?

Do I have to bring my router for fast flexible internet/internal network connection and control (security etc) or what is provided either by the internet provider or (if you rent), the landlord?

What kind of skincare can you buy there? Any American or European brands and how large a selection? Should I stock up?

We plan to come to Ecuador for a couple of months to explore. Would travelers insurance be good enough or can someone sign up for health insurance for those couple of months in Ecuador? Or perhaps we should get an international plan like Cigna? Hard to decide because we will be ending our jobs prior to the exploratory trip but need to go back to the United States for about a month before returning if we choose to move there.

Can you do a video on cleaning fresh fruits and veggie? I’ve heard different techniques and since we eat a ton of them, it would be good to know what you think works best.

What’s it like safety-wise living in more rural areas?

I just found out that I am going to likely have to undergo some major surgery. What did you encounter when it came to transferring medical records to doctors there?

Can foreigners buy small boats and do they have to be registered?

Do you feel like you’re part of a community? Do you have meaningful friendships there?

Do you have particular credit cards that you carry for backup in case your debit card doesn’t work? I hear American Express is often preferred when traveling.

How long of a drive is it from Manta to Olón?

Are landlords bothered by marijuana use?

What attitude prevails in Ecuador about COVID-19 vaccines? Can we expect nearly everyone to accept them when offered?

Should we open a bank account on our exploratory trip? We plan to meet with a visa service while there. Will they help us to make that happen, since it’s our understanding that two EC citizens have to sign (vouch) for you on the bank application? If we apply for a visa, it will probably be the “investment visa”. Which banks are best?

With the new covid lockdowns, are there any restrictions on visitors to EC?

Have you guys been vaccinated yet? How was the experience? Please share a video of a vaccination site.

Can you buy whole bean coffee in Ecuador?

April 2021 Video

March 2021

Don – Does the 5% exit tax include interest earned on CDs that was purchased by money brought into EC?

David – When you move the money back out of Ecuador, are you taxed 5% on just what you earned while the money was in Ecuador or ON the entire amount that you imported plus any profit/interest?

Ron – Has the cost of living in Cuenca changed since the Pandemic? Mainly food and housing.

Ron – What city on the coast would be the safest “with hospitals” for expats?

Robin – Do you encounter a lot of buskers or musicians playing in Ecuador, out and about? Whether it’s nightlife or on the beach?

Cherie – Are you currently paying U.S. state taxes? Do you have any tips on re-establishing residency in states without state taxes? Are you required to file any tax returns in Ecuador if you aren’t earning income from Ecuador?

Ginger – Do homes have plots where vegetables may be grown? Is the soil in your area fertile for vegetables? Too sandy?

Chris – What’s the best Credit Card’s to use in Ecuador?

Chris – Do you have to go to Quito to get your Visas and cedula or can you get that in Manta?

Don – My wife and I are vaccinated for Covid with Moderna vaccine. Ecuador government doesn’t list Moderna as valid vaccine on official websites. We are planning to retire in Ecuador this summer but don’t want to face long quarantine. Should we wait until Covid is under control before moving to Ecuador?

Leslie – I like cooking asian cuisines, from Indian to korean to Japanese. Are there any Asian markets in Cuenca or Guayaquil?

Leslie – I have a bird and I’ve been doing the research on bringing a bird with me. Assuming I can, do pet stores carry bird food and supplies?

Fred and Pamela – In the US we are considered innocent until proven guilty. I’ve heard in Panama it is the opposite. How is it in Ecuador?

Mary – I’m visiting Ecuador from Nov 25 to Dec 11. Is it possible to get lodging choices on the fly or should I book in advance?

Hans – How about the more dancy sports. I mean inline/roller skating, ice skating, old fashioned ballroom dancing? I think that in April in Guayaquil you have the Pan American Figure Skating Championships (by the way referring to roller skating). So you would think that the sport is popular in Ecuador. However, on none of the videos from Ecuador I have ever seen roller skaters wiz buy.

Charles – Can you recommend a hotel in Montañita?

Denise – I thought I had read the mail service was going to change in Ecuador and don’t remember where. Anyway, have you heard of it, and do you have any updates? Do you use a mail service today so you get your US mail?

Ron – If I wanted to go to college in Ecuador, are there classes in English available and where should I look? Do they need my transcripts? I’m not looking for a degree, I just want a nice place to learn more. So, can you please let me know what you know about Ecuador Academia?

March 2021 Video

February 2021

Jennifer – Do you know if there are any veterinary emergency rooms in Cuenca or other larger cities?

Rory – I was told to keep my dollars in the US and use the ATM for all bills. Is there any reason to open a bank account in Ecuador for cash and bill pay?

Ram – How is it there now with Covid?

Mike – I’m sorry if you already covered this in another video, but what does low-cost local (South American) wine cost, and where is it from? Is there Ecuadorian wine, or is it imported from Chile or Argentina or other SA countries?

Walter – Now that you have moved to the beach and the weather is better, do you find yourselves getting out more, exercising more often, and in better shape than you were in Cuenca? It seems from your videos since you moved to Olon that you are happier and more “toned” than when you lived in Cuenca.

Harold Wayne – Do you feel the facilities I’d rent in Ecuador might be upgradable to bidets?

Leslie – If I rent a furnished apartment can I buy a new mattress? Is there a good selection in Ecuador? How does it work in a furnished apartment if you want to change a piece?

Chad – If someone wants to buy property in Ecuador, how do you move the funds from the US to Ecuador for the purchase? Also, can you set up a bank account in Ecuador prior to being a permanent resident if you have the two letters of recommendation from locals?

Mary – It sounds like you have to prepay for healthcare and then put a claim in for reimbursement? What if you need expensive procedures? Can you seek pre-approval for things like surgeries, other expensive treatments?

Fred and Pamela – We are thinking of living in Ecuador 7-8 months out of the year and the remainder in the states. Does that sound reasonable as far as renting a place or should we rent something year by year and just have it empty or sublet when we are gone?

Ram – Is it hard to find an Instapot and air fryer there?

Don – Is hard liquor, like Rum and Vodka available in Ecuador?

Don – If I come to Ecuador on a pensioners Visa, can I change it to a Investors Visa later?

Allen – Are there many holistic doctors and dentists in Ecuador?

Kathryn – I am in initial stages of applying for Pensioner Temporary Residence Visa. I am very alarmed at the possibility of the airlines requiring vaccine. Have you heard any of this?

Terri – Have the recent prison events and elections given you cause for concern about living in Ecuador?

Leslie – Are vaccines recommended for a one week trip? Also would you recommend acetazolamide for altitude sickness?

Denise – Do Cuenca and other places offer GF options in grocery stores, restaurants, etc?

Derald – What are your favorite places to eat in Montanita that offer gluten-free meals?

Erik – What are your favorite restaurants in Olon? Would the list be different for not vegetarians?

February 2021 Video

January 2021

Ronald – Do you see or hear about drug use or addicts there like in the U.S?

ESfromTX – How is bus travel in the mountains (say, between Cuenca and Guayaquil or between Cuenca and Loja)? Are there two classes of buses, as I’ve seen in Mexico? How old are the buses? Are they in good repair? Do the drivers drive safely? Are there many crashes? Are there bus strikes in Ecuador that leave you stranded?

ESfromTX – When are you going to Quito for exploration and filming? I’m so curious about that city.

Ronald – Do we need to see a doctor and or have a prescription for monthly maintenance meds like monthly heart, blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety, low-dose aspirin, vitamins, etc.? Not pain meds or antibiotics. How readily accessible are medical supplies for CPAP machines, oxygen, etc.?

Ronald – What is the best way to stay in touch with people from the U.S.? Whatsapp, Facebook, Skype, cell phone? What are the cost for those things in Ecuador to go international?

Ronald – What is the best way to get from Quito to Cuenca? I see they have long layovers for the next flight. We will have several bags on our first trip. If you stay overnight in Quito as you have said in one of your videos, do you have to pick up your bags and recheck the next morning? Are the vans a valid option?

Mike and Sonja – If we purchased the AMEX travel insurance, do we still need secondary insurance thru an Ecuadorian company? If so who do you recommend?

Rob – There was some discussion recently on the Facebook page Olón Life about whether the beach in Olón is a swimming beach or not. Some said it was not particularly safe. What is you take on this? You seem to enjoy the water.

Lori – Do you know if there are any expat neighborhood areas in Guayaquil itself? The area where you climbed the stairway (for example) was beautiful, and worthy of possibly taking a closer look. I do know of one or two expats who have settled in GYE, and curious if this could be a trend?

Lisa – We eat very similar to you. Are you finding everything you need? I know you’ve gone to a larger commercial area to find a few items that are not readily available in much smaller Olón. Have you had to make any alterations in your daily “diet” and cooking projects? More of something/less of something? Omitted something entirely? Found anything new?

Walter – I know electronics are more expensive there, but other than aspirin and sunscreen, what else do you recommend we bring with us? And what do guys “stock up on” when you’re back in the US?

MuchasCosas – How often have you worn suits/ties (JP) or fancy dresses (Amelia) during the ~3 years you’ve been in Ecuador? Besides an occasional wedding or funeral, I can’t imagine much need for “semi-formal” wear.

Rikk – We have an adult daughter who has a disability (epilepsy and learning disorders). She gets her medications and checks in with a doctor once a year. Do you think the hospital there would be able to handle something like this?

Dave – Could you cover your timeline for selling everything and how you condensed a life full of stuff down to 2.5 suitcases?

Chris – Are all kinds of vitamins available in Ecuador? Also when one is traveling from the States, is there a particular way to bring your prescription medications. I’d like to keep them with me in a backpack instead of checked luggage.

January 2021 Video

December 2020

MuchasCosas – Moving to a new country and leaving friends and family behind can be challenging. How easy was it to make new friends (fellow expats and native Ecuadorians) in both Cuenca and Olón?

Jim – Are the electrical outlets the same type as here in the States? Were there any sort of adapters you needed to pick up that you didn’t need back here?

Bill – What is the easiest way to stay beyond the usual 90 day limit in Ecuador and can this be arranged prior to flying?

Lief – I was wondering if anyone had an outstanding referral to dentistry and lasik eye clinics?

Chris – When one has their Temporary Visa and applies for IESS coverage, does that coverage also cover medicines, regardless if they are prescribed by a physician or over the counter?

Elsa – What is the process for permanent visas, and do you apply for them 2 years after your temporary? Do the visas also cost up to $450, plus another price to see EcuaAssist or Gringo Visas?

Gary – How much air conditioning is needed living on the coast and what does it cost to run air conditioning? And have you ever wanted heat at night?

Judy – If you’re there for three months or so, can you apply for medical insurance for the time there? Even if you aren’t a resident?

Scott – What kind of men’s clothing is available in Ecuador and what is the price range?

Scott – What social activities are available (pre and post-COVID)? I am single therefore I do not have the advantage of bringing a partner.

Dave – How much do those e-Dirt Bikes in your video cost?

December 2020 Video

November 2020

Laura – How careful are you with the water? For example, do you use filtered water to wash your fruits & veggies and brush your teeth? Do you not eat certain items at restaurants, like salads, juice, or things made with ice?

Ed – Are you happy with your JEP accounts?

Robert – Should I bring a printer (and enough ink to last until my next trip to the US) or can I buy a decent one there and find ink at a reasonable price?

Lisa – When you moved to Ecuador, what did you choose to pack in those mysterious extra four suitcases? I’m thinking that I’d probably pack my beloved burr grinder!!! (Whole bean coffee is my thing). Did you pack anything along those lines in those extra suitcases, or were they filled with only extra clothing and shoes? (I am NOT after a list of private, none-of-my-business kind of things, yikes! LOL…) Did you have to declare a lot of what was in them on your customs form?

Elliott – We’ve watched you buy lots of fruit at the mercados but not really the leafy greens you use for your salads. Where in Cuenca did you get your greens?

Elliott – What happened to the mattress you bought in VLOG 62 when you moved to Olón?

ESfromTX – How much time can you spend outside of Ecuador on the 2-year temporary resident visa?

ESfromTX – At what point are you eligible for purchasing private health insurance in Ecuador, and do you have to live in Ecuador year-round to get it and maintain it?

GirlFromGary – Are the water jugs BPA free? If not, can that option be requested or can I purchase BPA free containers in Ecuador and have them filled with water?

GirlFromGary – Can I get cookware that does not have Teflon coating in Ecuador?

Bill – Can someone arrange for a taxi driver to meet me at the Guayaquil airport, and can someone make a recommendation (s) for a place to rent in Olon for 2 months?

Noel & Meghan – Our naturopathic physician prescribes natural wellness supplements that we usually order on Amazon. Are those available in Ecuador?

Noel & Meghan – Do you know if it’s possible to purchase a 100% natural latex mattress in Ecuador? How might we find out about this?

Noel & Meghan – Also wondering about purchasing non-Teflon surface cookware. Are good quality stainless steel pots and pans available? Can we purchase a Vitamix blender there?

Mike & Sonja – With your health insurance, what kind of deductible do you have? How about prescription coverage? $10 copay, $100 deductible per person per year, medication covered at 90% in network and 80% out of network.

Juanita – Are there efficiency or studio apts in Ecuador?

Guy – How do expats handle the distance from adult children? Do the kids come visit often, or do the parents travel to the US? What appears to be the most common way to stay in touch?

Andrew – What are the options for school age expat children?

November 2020 Video

October 2020

MuchasCosas – Was wondering how the taxes and fees are in Ecuador. The Value Added Tax, Property Taxes, any special Sales Tax on big ticket items, car registration fees (I realize you guys don’t own a car), etc.

JC – I saw earlier this week in Cuenca High Life that Ecuador was going to lower the minimum expat income requirement from $800/mo to $400/. Can an expat from the US realistically do Ecuador on about $400/mo?

Chris – The US is showing another rise in Covid-19 cases. However, I’m not aware of any additional problems with flying outside of the US at this time. Has the status in Ecuador taken the same downward turn?

Amy – There are a lot of people posting about living in Cuenca, but less about Quito. We are city people and since Quito is the bigger city, that seems like it might be a better fit, but wonder if there are downsides to Quito that push more expats to live in Cuenca.

Timothy – Because of the higher cost of electronics we brought our HP printer with us. We finally ran out of ink. Surprise surprise we can’t get the correct cartridge replacement, or find a local alternative. Rightly or wrongly we went and bought a local HP product with continuous ink.

Kwame & Jo – We have seen your video and articles on getting pets to Ecuador. How challenging is the process to get them back to the states? Same process just in reverse or are their more obstacles returning with your pet.

Judy LamSee – Can you elaborate on the COVID status at this time (cases, deaths in the area, curfew, food availability etc., transportation (CP buses and local buses))?

Craig – What is the approximate percentage of successful local expat businesses operating in Ecuador as opposed to working online from Ecuador? Do you guys have any info in this? People are always asking me how easy it is and my answer is always, “it is not easy”.

Tara and John – I have noticed that you use different apps that we are using here on our devices. Everyone uses Facebook of course, but what apps do you use on your mobile devices, home WiFi devices, etc….. is hacking a problem there? Do we need a VPN while traveling?

Corrine – Did you ever consider living in Loja? If so, why didn’t you move there?

Wendy – I have a foldable Yamaha keyboard which I would pack as carefully as possible. But which method might keep it safer from damage: in a shipping container or in regular luggage?

October 2020 Video

September 2020

Robert – When I look at weather and climate.com, the temperatures throughout the year look great but it says there are an average of 3-5 hours of sun per day. Is it overcast a lot or most of the time? Is it sunnier as you move south or north along the coast?

Elsa – How do you stay in touch with friends and family in the USA once you move via cell or laptop? I have heard Skype or Google fi are some options.

GirlFromGary – Is it best to do the temporary visa paperwork before leaving the States?

JeffnCher – Are there craft breweries in Ecuador or are they all macro sized breweries. Will we be drinking mass produced beer or can we go to the local brewery, chat up the brewmaster and try their unique brands?

Lisa – Is there a trash pick up? Or do you cart your waste to a centralized location? What do you do about recycling and about landfill waste?

Jennifer – Did you find it difficult to adjust to a constant length of daylight without those long summer days you had in the States?

Gary – I have seen many pictures of bus crashes there and some extremely disturbing bus hijackings where riders are robbed at gunpoint and pistol whipped. I have to assume these are isolated events. Can you explain why yall easily ride the buses there and do not seem to have problems with riding the buses?

Larry & Chrystal – When counting electronics brought into Ecuador, does a separate DVD player that plugs into a laptop count as a separate device? What about other items that plug into a laptop such as a separate keyboard? Or are they just counting the main electronics?

Larry & Chrystal – Can you remind us of the electrical situation; by that we mean do we use the electrical cords we already have, or do need some adaptors?

September 2020 Video

August 2020

Judy – What organizations in the nearby vicinity would like volunteers and at what capacity they would use them?

Larry & Chrystal – What church options are available in Olón and Cuenca?

Charles – Is there an LDS (Mormon) church in Olon?

John – Is there anything that you feel is uniquely Ecuadorian?

Jeff and Cher – What are some local traditional Ecuadorian meals?

MuchasCosas – Are there other areas in Ecuador you considered either before moving to Cuenca or to Olón? For example, I’ve heard there are places about an hour outside Quito where the elevation isn’t too high but the weather is beautiful (70’s and 80’s) year round.

Michael – In Cuenca there seemed to be plenty of specialists, dentists, masseuse, eye doctor. I would need an endocrinologist and access to thyroid medicine on a regular basis. I guess I’m better off in Cuenca, but could I make it work on the coast? Could it work in Olon, for example?

Dave – I read something about a new value-added tax for digital services in Ecuador. I guess it’s for Netflix, HBO, etc. I’m curious. What do you do for online entertainment? Do you have to use a VPN? Can you access all U.S. subscription services? How would they know?

Tim – What ARE the cross walk rules, if there are any?

Elsa – I’ve heard different opinions about cell phones. Some people say to buy them before moving to Ecuador, and others say to buy the cell phones in Ecuador – as they are easier to be fixed there. Thoughts?

August 2020 Video

July 2020

Patrice – In a previous July video, you were on the topic of how to find accommodations and said something like “Boo Booking.com“, followed by suggesting going directly to the hotel website instead (for a better deal.) Just curious if you or others you know have had unfavorable experiences with that site?

Russel – Can you recommend a tour company? I like taking a tour that gives me a broad brush feel of the Country and then go back and do a more detailed tour on my own.

Russel – I viewed the video on how to get to Cuenca. Do you have one for Olon? https://youtu.be/uQpGtY6kbMs?t=45

Timothy – I believe you originally had your healthcare insurance with Confiamed but recently you were pursuing enrolling in IESS. Could you comment on why the change?

Gail – In one video, Xavier referred to a “forest” adjacent to Ciudadela de Los Ingenieros, which is a neighborhood where I am considering living. Is the “forest” actually Parque Paraiso?

Gina – Economically how is the country faring during this pandemic and is there any specific requirements or restrictions we need to be aware of before we make the move in 2 years?

Gina – We saw your video on Visas and we were wondering about the $40,000 that is needed for the investor visa. Can we draw on that money to live off of there and how safe is it in an Ecuadorian bank?

Judy – Do you need to have an international health insurance policy prior to arriving in Ecuador on a pensioner visa?

Judy – If you can automatically go on Ecuador health insurance, how long is the waiting period for “pre-existing” condition(s)?

Dave – What about vegan options in local grocery stores? I suppose it’s too much to wish for Beyond Meat and Impossible Burgers! But what are the common options? I would imagine tofu would be on the menu!

July 2020 Video

June 2020

Gail – If applying for an Investor Visa with $40k CD, what is the process and how much of a hassle is it to access those funds when purchasing property after having moved to Cuenca?

Gail – How long is the process from placing a bid to closing?

Gail – How common is a month long rental lease? (I’m thinking of being a vagabond, initially, and living in different neighborhoods for a month at a time before investing in real estate, then have my container shipped to Cuenca — is that a whacko plan?)

Chris – Our plan is to fly to Quito, change planes and fly to Manta and travel to our final destination of San Clemente. If the 14 day quarantine is still in effect how do we get transportation to our Airbnb in San Clemente?

Nandita – I’m a little bugphobic and I was just wondering about bugs in Cuenca. I know there a Tarantulas but any others? How about on the coast? I saw the pictures of the spiders but do they get in the house? My big fear is of scorpions.

Judy – What is your experience with finding housing with your pets? I have a Standard Poodle (62lbs) that I will hopefully be moving with me and wondering how this may or may not affect my location choices. Have you found some areas more accepting of pets or does it mostly depend on the landlord?

Judy – Do you suggest I get a real estate agent to assist with obtaining housing? If so, how do they charge for their services?

Jeanette – I understand electronics are quite expensive in Ecuador. What did you take with you initially that you were so glad you did -and- what did you wish you had? (other than laptops & cell phones) Router/modem, battery chargers, etc?

Bruce – What is the music scene like? Is there a jazz presence in the larger cities? Is salsa popular?

Audrey – How did you find was the best way to meet new friends when you first arrived in Cuenca?

June 2020 Video

May 2020

Nancy – Where do things stand in Ecuador regarding Covid-19? Are the numbers coming down? Are they relaxing restrictions?

Ernie – How does an expat get cremated or buried in Ecuador? What hoops does an expat go through on his or her journey to the great beyond?

Chris – Are you guys on Ecuador’s public insurance yet?

Susan & Rick – Does Ecuador have direct control over the electrical power generation and distribution or is it a private company/consortium? Does the power company rate increase after you exceed a base amount of kilowatt usage?

Larry & Chrystal – Do you think real estate sales and rental costs in Cuenca will plummet in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic?

Terry & Michael – How does income tax work in Ecuador? Do you pay income tax for income you earn there? Do you still pay US income tax?

Ralph – Have you heard of any cases of malaria in the past on Ecuador’s coastal areas or is it limited to the Amazon Basin?

Carol – What’s the first thing you want to do once the restrictions are lifted and it’s safer to go out?

May 2020 Video

April 2020

Steve Lewis: Is there any talk about having Amazon or similar online shopping service coming to Ecuador? If not, what options do expats have for deliveries of merchandise?

Carol Cole: What do you expect for winter coming up at the beach? Will it be cold?

Patrice Rose Plummer: Are there any solo expat female groups in Cuenca?

Janet Wolf: What influenced your decision to not have a car? Do many expats decide not to have a car? If so why? Is it dangerous to drive a car there? How are insurance rates on vehicles in Ecuador?

April 2020 Video

March 2020

Larry & Chrystal – What visa types allow you to work in Ecuador? Pension, Investment, Professional and Work Visas

Nancy – When renting a condo/apartment/house in Ecuador, are the rules the same as in the States regarding first and last month’s rent and any pet fees to be paid in advance?

Nancy – Are you aware if Ecuador has an agency equivalent to our USDA which regulates food handling/safety, etc?

Larry & Chrystal – Are any immunizations required to visit Ecuador?

Patrice Rose – Is it possible to rent a mailbox at the downtown post office in Cuenca for the occasional snail-mail correspondence (as I may not have a permanent address for a while)? Is this the best option for snail-mail delivery in Cuenca?

March 2020 Video

February 2020

I/We want to talk. Can you give us your phone number?

What is the best bus, meaning comfortable and reliable, to travel from Guayaquil to Cuenca?

How much money should we bring for an exploratory trip to Cuenca, and in what denominations?

Are you getting around easier [on the coast]?

Can I bring my Harley to Ecuador?

Do you still have issues with water outages?

How good is the wifi in Cuenca? Have you had any problems and which service provider would you recommend?

February 2020 Video

January 2020

Jim Gans – Is it difficult to find long term pet friendly rentals?

Michael – What ever happened with that volcanic ashfall? Much ado about nothing? Shortly after, I saw some dramatic posts of volcanoes glowing full on red with lava flows – was that a hoax?

Michael – What allergies are there in Cuenca? Are they better on the coast?

Marcia – you mentioned in one of your videos that clothes are very expensive. How convenient it is to have clothes made by a seamstress or tailor versus purchasing?

Pam Bilyeu – I was curious how large the expat population is in Cuenca? Are there any numbers available? What is the trend of population growth?

Terry Henry – Why can’t you flush the toilet paper?

Larry and Chrystal Holley – Which Ecuadorian banks in Cuenca are especially expat friendly and pleasant to deal with?

January 2020 Video

December 2019

Marcia – You mentioned in one of your videos that electronics and clothing are very expensive. How convenient is it to have clothes made by a seamstress or tailor versus purchasing?

Marcia – Since you first moved from the States to Cuenca, what has changed in Cuenca that has impacted you the most?

Jennifer – Would you consider Cuenca to be a humid place to live or not? I see cloudy skies a lot when JP is filming around town and I think once he commented on missing the sun. With the average temperatures in the mid-70’s, what does the air feel like?

Jennifer – How much longer before the transit system is up and running? Will this system get rid of those disgusting diesel fuel buses?

Are there things I should bring from the US that are cheaper or better?

December 2019 Video

November 2019

Marcia – What is your favorite bakery?

Marcia – Have you ever been to Paute?

Michael – Do you need health insurance to visit Ecuador?

Can you flush the TP?

How do you make calls to/from the US?

November 2019 Video

October 2019

Do you need vaccines to come to Ecuador?

What are popular expat neighborhoods?

What is Gringolandia and what are the pros and cons of living there?

Are stoves/ovens/dryers gas or electric?

Do you still have a US bank account?

How do ATM’s work?

Are craft beer and alcohol available? Is there a craft beer scene?

October 2019 Video

September 2019

What are the tipping customs in Cuenca?

Do you have an update on the Tranvia?

Do taxis have meters or do you need to negotiate the price in advance? Is Uber available in Cuenca?

What is your daily/weekly/monthly routine? Can you get everything you need on your weekly trip to the mercado?

I have been noticing huge differences in prices for similar size apartments. Is there some “gringo” premium pricing happening?

September 2019 Video

August 2019

Why bring small bills or change to Ecuador?

What’s the best time of year to visit Cuenca?

How are pharmacies different in Ecuador compared to the States?

What type of electricity and plugs are used?

How do you get mail to and from Ecuador?

August 2019 Video

Planning a move to Ecuador?

PRE-ORDER our Ecuador Expat Fast Track eCourse and get a BIG DISCOUNT until we officially launch on October 2nd, 2021!

Follow Us on Social Media

Get Qualified, Trustworthy Recommendations

Need help with your visa, finding a place to live, shipping a container, health insurance, private driver or something else?

We're happy to introduce you to our trusted and qualified service providers in Ecuador!

Get a Qualified Referral

News & Current Events from Ecuador

Every Friday, we send an email with current expat-relevant news from Ecuador (in English). It contains the latest information about covid, travel restrictions & guidelines, government actions, volcanoes, flooding, crime, and more. Basically, anything significant from the prior week that affects expats. We don't share this information ANYWHERE ELSE!

In addition, you'll also gain immediate access to our Ecuador Cost of Moving & Living Calculator. And it now contains a Low Budget Cost of Living option.

Download It Now

Get Even More Guidance!

Want to be an expat? You're not alone! We have a supportive community of current and future expats who are eager to share their experiences, answer questions and provide support to help take the mystery out of your move.

While we provide a lot of extra value for your membership, the real benefit is the support your contribution offers to us. Your generosity and reciprocity helps us continue creating more videos, articles and content about expats and Ecuador!

Join Us Today!