Ecuador Insider Articles Archives

There’s good news for people interested in investing in real estate in Cuenca, Ecuador, as the market comes out of a three-year slump.

When Ellen came to Ecuador, she wasn’t expecting to find anything like the skill and quality of her artistic experiences in Chicago.

If the earth truly had corners, you could say that Vilcabamba, Ecuador, landed in one of the farthest. It has a distinct aura all its own. The place itself is a bit like something out of a Tolkien-meets-Thoreau text.

When my husband Christopher and I began to realize that retirement was within our grasp, we knew we wanted to be in an area that would allow us to live comfortably on our pensions, enjoy a moderate climate, and be able to give back to the community.

Even without meaning to, how can you ruin someone else’s day? Just mention the words “property taxes” and watch the instant transformation from happy feelings to smoldering resentfulness. Which is exactly how I used to feel, when living in my California condo.

“The view from my terrace is spectacular in every direction. I am surrounded by mountain peaks, stars, and fresh, clean air.” Former New Yorker, Mindy Dickinson, lights up as she describes her new home in Cotacachi, Ecuador, just two hours north of Quito.

Salinas is a beach culture through and through. From its beautiful beaches lining the boardwalk, to the ample choices of restaurants serving some of the freshest and most delicious seafood, there’s no denying that Salinas is an Ecuadorian destination that shouldn’t be missed.

People always ask why we moved five dogs to Ecuador. Especially when four was the limit. I’ll admit, bringing five dogs made us feel more as though we were smuggling contraband than moving our furry friends. But leaving them behind was not an option. After all, they’re family.

Living in Ecuador, we have a big money problem. Or rather, we have a problem with big money. The sad truth is that the cost of things like cabs, fresh produce, lunches, and so on, is so low that no one likes to break large bills.

My partner, Stacey, and I have lived in Cuenca for almost three years, and we have learned that some of the busiest and happiest moments of the entire year come towards its end. And best of all, the joy has a great price point: completely free.