About GavinoGainza

Currently Lives:

Citizen of:

Some Forum Posts:

Guatemala: The amount of money needed to save up before a single person moves....:

Hola The amount of money you will need to live in Guatemala depends partly on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. Even in communities (cities/towns) this can vary. I live in Quatzaltenango or Xela (shay-la) as the locals call it. Xela is situated in the western highlands so we have cool nights and beautiful warm days. It is the least expensive place to live and learn espanol, if that is your goal. It is possible for a single person living a modest lifestyle to live here for as little as $400 a month. It can of course cost you more. You have to know where and how to live here. Lago Atitlan (more touristy) will cost you about the same and it is warmer there. Antigua very touristy, is also more expensive. You can live in outlaying areas for less. What work would you hope to do here? You are not legally allowed to work here as a tourist. The minimum wage is Q 30 ($3.50) an hour but people rarely get that. You could teach English but again the pay is poor compared to the USA or Canada. Gringos can sometimes get work in bars, but do not count on tips (Guatemalans don't tip). Save and save more and as much as you can... because this country is an incredible place to live.

Ecuador: Galapagos sailboat:

Sounds like an awesome experience .... I would jump at a chance to be involved

Argentina: Which country is best?:

I am a Canadian citizen presently living in Guatemala. Because Canada does not have a tax treaty with Guatemala I lose 25% of my pension in Guatemala. Three countries in South America have that Tax Treaty with Canada and I would not lose any pension money in these countries. The countries are Argentina, Equador and Peru. I am looking for information as to which country is best for a Canadian gentleman to retire in. Thank you.

Guatemala: Zodi Hot Water Heaters:

There are several makes of tankless water heaters available in Guatemala. They are mostly 220 volts which is far more efficient that 120 volts. There are also gas fired tankless heaters which from my experience are more efficient. Any plumber or knowledgeable handyman could hook one up. I But if your home does not have 220 voltage the municipality has to provide that for you. It cannot be done by a local electrician.

Guatemala: Rentals in Antigua?:

To begin with regarding ATM's in Guatemala. The usual amount you can withdraw is Q2000 DAILY, but that depends also on your "home" bank account. Some ATM's in Guatemala allow a daily withdrawel of Q3000. Also is it NOT true that foreigners cannot open a bank account in Guatemala. I am from Canada and I have a Guatemala bank account in Xela.

Guatemala: A safe and affordable place to live abroad...:

Hello. Your questions are somewhat vague.... "Safe and Affordable" the words have different connotations. You have been to Antigua and so you then very aware how expensive it is as compared to the rest of Guatemala.. Lago Atitlan has many villages that surround the lake and again these all present a variance in costing and safety. I live in Quetzaltenango (Xela) which to me is perfect..... very safe and yes very affordable. My question to you is "what are you looking for with either... in safety and affordability??

Guatemala: General labor rates in Antigua:

To begin with you are a gringo and yes you will be charged higher pricing, unless you can get a Guatemalan to do your bargaining. While you do not want to be charged higher pricing, you seem to indicate a willingness to take advantage of a poorer country and its people. Somewhere in the middle you should find what is best for you and the workers. Minimum wage here is Q25 per hour, although many employers will not pay that. Quaity work anywhere costs more, so why scrimpt on what will become your home. Secondly you have chosen Antigua which is probably the most expensive area to construct a home in. Perhaps a little more ground work investigation would have been prudent, even if to just get that cheaper pricing.

Guatemala: Unusual question from a middle aged newbie:

Sorry GuateGringo your information regarding visa renewals is incorrect. Going to El Salvador to renew a 90 day visa used to be possible. But since June, 2006 to renew a 90 day visa means you have to leave the CA-4 Border Control Agreement. The countries involved are Guatemala, Hondurace, El Savador and Nicarugua. So to renew a 90 day visa you now have to go to Mexico or Costa Rica or Belice or Cuba or anywhere outside of the CA-4 area

Guatemala: Cats in Guatamala:

Cats are far more adaptable at fitting in (and surviving) than people are.... In Canada I traveled to northern and isolated regions with a part Russian Blue cat. It was the other animals that needed security.

Canada: Trying to move to canada I'm STUCK plz help:

Hello... Trying to move to Canada. First of all what is your nationality? If you are Guatemalan unfortunately it can be difficult. You will have to provide proof income, pass a language test and be able to buy a health care plan. Just to get into Canada is first hurdle. You mention that you 72 years of age so you will not qualify for social assistance, pensions or health... All of the information you and forms you require are on the Government wesite.. require is on the Canada website. Good luck.

Date Joined:

10/9/2011

Total Posts:

92

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0.05