An Expat Talks about Moving to Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca, Ecuador

An expat in Cuenca, Ecuador advises others to take an exploratory trip before committing to making the move. Then, if you do move to Cuenca, leave your furniture at home since it's very expensive to ship and furniture is very reasonably priced in Ecuador.

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

Cuenca

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

I wish I had brought: Electric blanket, Thermos, underwear, More vitamins. I wish I had left: Dress shoes, Dress clothes, Sweaters

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Good idea to take a exploratory trip first, get an idea of the area and where you might want to live. Check out available apartments and rent cost. Many expats arrive here with a container full of stuff that they cannot live without which is an added expense considering you can have furniture made here at very reasonable costs. And then many of them move back to their country just after 6 months selling all their stuff here.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

11th floor 2B/2B condo with river view and 24 hour security guards and underground car parking.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Found a high rise condo in the local paper for the right amount of rent.

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Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Housing for expats seems to be going up mostly because new expats will pay the asking prices which are still much cheaper then in the US. Furnished apartments average $500-$700. Unfurnished $300-$500 http://gas2335.blogspot.com/2013/05/update-on-my-cuenca-ecuador-condo.html

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Write a Comment about this Expat Report

Comments about this Report

Sueetta

Feb 3, 2015 10:40

Brought a really good space heater instead of an electric blanket since they have been found unhealthy to sleep under. Supplements are the only thing difficult to find here as we do in the US....things like cinnamon capsules, acidophilus, Fenugreek. Basics are available here. No canning jars are sold in Ecuador, apparently, so importing some of those with reusable rings as like making my own applesauce and apple butter. Also for storing salad greens to keep them fresh longer in the fridge. Very glad I brought my small appliances and tech equipment. Buy a printer here so can get toner easily and cheaply....my HP printer toner cartridges as from US have different magnetic strips on them. Bring sweat shirts and pants to wear at home for comfort during rainy season, too. Light jackets and rain gear needed too.

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An expat offers an immensely helpful view of what it's like living in Cuenca, Ecuador - from expat clubs to job opportunities.

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An expat in Cuenca, Ecuador appreciates the beautiful environment and people. He advises newcomers to get learn Spanish and meet locals instead of socializing with other expats.

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Culture Shock in Cuenca

A semi-retired woman who relocated to Cuenca, Ecuador once her children were grown is enjoying life there with her husband. He has longed to return to Central America, since living there as a child.