Digital Nomad Life in Cuenca, Ecuador

"There are now two expat groups which meet in Cuenca each Friday night at 5 p.m. One is at Zoes and the other at the Ecualyptus. From here you can meet and greet other expats and then extend you network," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Expats living in Cuenca often join social groups and clubs that cater to their interests. Popular activities for expats include taking Spanish classes, dancing, volunteering, attending meet-ups and exploring the local culture. Expats also join a variety of online forums, such as Expats in Cuenca and Cuenca Highlife to discuss local topics, host events, find resources and ask questions. Additionally, many expats make friends by attending local events and festivals, such as the Festival of the Little Candles and the Corpus Christi Festival. Living in the same neighbourhood as other expats, attending weekly gatherings in local bars, cafes, and restaurants and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and kayaking are also great ways to meet and make connections in the Cuenca community," explained one foreigner living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"For Ecuadorians, life revolves around family. Expats are very social here, though there aren't too many of us. Most expats who are in Cuenca are adventurous, love to explore the country, and are focused pretty much on living life," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Through the internet we found a person whom totally misrepresented the rental market, however not knowing we were taken advantage of," remarked one member in Cuenca.

"We made an exploratory trip months before we decided to come and live in Cuenca, Ecuador. We did not really choose the neighborhood we just found the apartment absolutely fell in love with it and the price was just right and the view and everything. It seemed like a good neighborhood as well and we bought it within two weeks of being in this country. To date 18 months later we are still very very happy with our purchase. We have since found it is a great neighborhood close to all amenities but far enough from the centre of the city," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Before retiring in Cuenca, expats should consider the cost of living and the local economy. Cuenca is known for its pleasant climate, affordability and a range of activities, so it is important to understand the local culture and language. Healthcare is generally considered to be of high-quality and available at a fraction of the cost that one may pay in their home country. Furthermore, it may be helpful to look into the safety and security situation in Cuenca prior to retiring in the city," said one expat in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"The weather.. and my spouse's contentment. I am still working remotely from Ecuador, but not being in an office is wonderful. I could work and be happy most anywhere if I have moderate temperature and solitude to read. My husband, however, although a U.S. citizen, was born in Spain to diplomatic parents. He spent his childhood in mostly central American countries, and has been feeling trapped in the US for the past 30 years, while we raised our children. I am thrilled for him and with him that we are able to once again live in a Spanish speaking country. He states that Cuenca today is much like San Jose, Costa Rica was 35 years ago - and that is very special," explained one person living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Expatriates living in Cuenca appreciate the city's colonial architecture, vibrant local markets, and historic landmarks that make it a beautiful and unique place to live. They also enjoy the friendly atmosphere, caring neighbors, and hospitality of the local people—making it easy to assimilate and build relationships. Additionally, the low cost of living and plentiful outdoor activities offer expats an affordable and accessible lifestyle," said one expat in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"My Spanish - when caught off-guard, or in the early morning, my language ability (Spanish, but to a degree, English as well :-) fails and I am floundering. By afternoon, all is well," remarked one member in Cuenca.

"One of the most difficult aspects of the Cuenca culture for many expats is the idea of personal space. Cuencan culture is considered to be quite close and family-oriented, making it difficult for expats to maintain a sense of personal space. Additionally, expats can find the local language and customs complex and challenging. Despite the language barrier, expats often find it difficult to create meaningful relationships with local people. Additionally, many expats struggle with the pace of life which can be slower than hey may be used to with fewer conveniences like reliable internet and quick access to customer service," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"In order to stay in Cuenca for a period of time, you will need to obtain a temporary residency visa. This can be done through the Ministry of Immigration, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or a local Ecuadorian consulate and requires a valid passport and proof of financial stability. Along with the visa, you may also need to provide a recently issued letter of police clearance and/or a medical certificate. Once your paperwork is in order, you will be issued a temporary residence permit valid for up to four years," said one expat in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Proof of at least $800 a month income, FBI and local police report, birth certificate and if applies divorce papers or marriage certificate. All need to be notarized and apostle stamped. You can hire a lawyer or do it yourself at the local Immigration office here takes about 3 months to receive your residency card good for ten years. I have a blog about the process: AAA Living in Cuenca gas2335.blogspot.com or book available on amazon: Why Ecuador for me," remarked one member in Cuenca.

"It is important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting Cuenca. One should avoid dressing in clothing that is considered immodest, such as showing too much skin or wearing revealing clothes in public. It is also important to be mindful of local gender roles and greet people in ways that are appropriate to their gender. Another cultural faux pas to avoid is speaking too loudly or discussing sensitive topics in public. Furthermore, it is important to show respect for the elderly and to be mindful of local religious holidays and customs," explained one person living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Excellent question. Actually, in Brazil, where I thought my Spanish would be good enough for the 'Portunol' we were speaking to the cab driver. When he asked if he could pick us up to take us to the airport the next day, where, as we had explained to him, we had rented a small private plane to fly to the Pantenal, we said sure. While walking into the hotel, my husband and I both had a feeling that we had missed something in his request. The following morning, he showed up to drive us to the airport - with his own suitcase packed. We had apparently agreed to take him with us on the plane to the Pantenal. Actually, there was no extra charge him on the plane, and he paid to stay in smaller quarters in the Pantenal himself - so it all worked out :-) That flexibility, enjoyment of your mistakes and desire to help others, are important parts of travel and expat life," said one expat in Cuenca.

"IESS (federal system) is cheapest insurance here UNLESS you came on "retirement income" visa, where it can be quite expensive (they they charge 17% of your income for the insurance). Almost all non-opioid prescription meds in the US are available here OTC," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Cuenca offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and offer a variety of services, including general medicine, emergency care, and specialized care. Private hospitals and clinics offer more specialized services, such as cosmetic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and fertility treatments. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores in the city, as well as a number of home health care providers. Cuenca also has a number of medical tourism companies that offer packages for medical treatments and procedures," said one digital nomad in Cuenca.

"Seeing a doctor in Cuenca is an easy matter. No appointment necessary in most cases. Excellent service and good quality for a much lower cost that the U.S," commented a person living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"This is the best medical care in terms of caring for you and really identifying the best way to correct the medical issues of people. Doctors really care for their patients, and spend time talking and testing for the real problem and thus coming up with a real solution to your specific issue. And all done at a bargain price," explained one digital nomad living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"In the cities, the medical services are the best we have seen in our travels outside of France, (the best in the world). From a home and the decision to see someone, to seeing a specialist can take as little as 20 minutes at a cost of $40. Tests and operations can be set for the same day. We grew up with national medical care and were advised on arrival, by those who have that background, to get insurance. We did so for three years but dropped it in angry disgust. It is demeaning being privately health-insured if you are not used to it. We self-insure and cover the expat requirement (when there is one from time to time) with IESS (never used)," said one member in Cuenca.

"Yes, it rains a bit, but if you have ever traveled to San Francisco, Amsterdam, London, Vancouver, you just keeping walking through it. The sun will dry you 10 minutes later. It definitely rains more today than 11 years ago. The only concession to Climate Change that Cuenca has made. But, there is greener grass and more flowers too. This new weather all started about 8 years ago. I find the weather wonderful! We have had enough beach living to make us tired and bored of it. ," said a member in Cuenca.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Cuenca appreciate the city's colonial charm, its vibrant culture, and its affordability. They also enjoy the temperate climate, the friendly locals, and the abundance of outdoor activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and the lack of modern amenities to be challenging. Additionally, the city's infrastructure can be unreliable and the cost of living is rising," explained one person living in Cuenca, Ecuador.