An Expat Talks about Retiring in Cuenca, Ecuador

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Cuenca

Why did you choose to retire abroad?

I became concerned at the apparent collapse of western nations 10-15 years ago.

Are you retired abroad all year or part of the year?

10 months

Why did you choose the country you retired to?

Stable weather all year long. Modern facilities Local skills lost in the Western world. Archaeological treasures, great trout fishing, fantastic views, high speed internet, few tourists. Gorgeous city. Fabulous food.

Did you ever live abroad before you retired abroad?

We traveled for decades for long periods in the US (shiver) and Europe. Retired very young to the Quebec mountains.

How long have you lived abroad since you retired abroad?

10-20 years.

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How many countries (other than your home country) have you lived in as a retiree?

3

What have been the most challenging aspects of being retired abroad?

Being type-cast as an American.

What have been the most rewarding aspects of being retired abroad?

Mixing with the locals. Enjoying different cultures. Watching them get healthier and richer. Year round Spring weather.

What would you do differently if you were just starting the retire abroad process?

Nothing.

What is life like for a retiree in your city and its surroundings? (Is there an active expat community? Cultural Attractions? Recreation? Nightlife?)

Philharmonic orchestra. Lots of art. Many skills and crafts that have been lost in the West, Beautiful old city. Food! Museums. Great shopping.

What residency documents or visas did you need to obtain to retire in your host country? How difficult was this process? (Please describe)

Permanent resident visa. Police records, Health attestation. Pension income 1000/month or wealth deposit 25k

Did you buy a home or apartment, or rent one? Is this a difficult process? (Please describe)

Bought a condo. Easy peasy.

Financially, has living abroad in your host country met your expectations? Exceeded them?

Exceeded them. Very high standard of living at 1/2 the price.

What are the most important financial considerations for retiring to your host country?

I didn't have any. Living money is not an issue for us not matter where we had chosen.

How much can a retiree live on comfortably in your host country?

Absolutely.

Do you have access to quality medical care? (Please describe - is it close? Expensive?)

We had to give up our Canadian (free) coverage, and need 3 months back in Canada and proof of re-residency to get it back. We tried American style health insurance but found it so annoying that we gave it up. We satisfy our local requirements with local insurance (100/month for two) but pay as we go. Medical access is MUCH faster and MUCH better than any we have seen.

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Is there a lot of crime where you live? (Please describe)

No. Ecuador is unusual in having a VERY low crime rate and Cuenca is the best in the country. The risk rate here is the same as Ohio which is much higher than Quebec but ok for us. No place in this city you can't walk day or night. Other cities (Quito and Guayaquil,) have risky spots we are told.

Describe available transportation where you live. Do you need a car? Is there access to safe public transportation?

Hyper-modern tramway. Buses..both local and national, airport, super cheap taxis. We also have a car..but are used to European driving so the locals don't kill us. Worst drivers we have seen on any continent.

Is there high-speed internet access where you live?

Yes.

Do you have any other thoughts you would like to share about retiring abroad?

There are now lots of Europeans here and more eastern Canadians and more wealthy expats with a choice of any place in the world to live. Sadly, the Americans here are normally looking for cheap living and have much more trouble dealing with local cultures and languages. They have low financial resources and constantly complain. The Europeans are younger - 30-40 with children and skills.