AMAZING Things We MISS About Cuenca Ecuador! 🇪🇨
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- Опубликовано: 28 авг 2023
- After spending 2 weeks in our old home for more than 2 years, and the most popular city in Ecuador for expats, we're considering a move back.
In this video, we discuss the 10 things we miss most about living Cuenca Ecuador. And stick around until the end because we also discuss safety in Ecuador and the increase in crime.
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I've said it before and I'll say it again, these videos make me homesick for places I have never been.
Love that! 😊
As an Ecuadorian I would say that Ecuador is no longer the same as before. With all the insecurity and violence going on now.
It is not the same 😔
@@AmeliaAndJP No but at least you don't have to be concerned about mass shootings while going about your daily business. I think it's rather amusing Americans worrying about perceived general violence in Ecuador while it's happening daily in their own "backyard."
@@larrypicard8802
Make that multiple times daily
The united States is also not the same as before the pandemic. But I think there are positives in all the areas. We just need to focus on the good things and enjoy.
@@larrypicard8802 As an American, I have never worried about a mass shooting as I went about my daily business any more than I worry about violence in Ecudaor, which is not at all. Don't let the papers freak you out.
I'm ok with rain, and cloudy skies, the one thing I hate is being hot and sweaty. One can always put on more clothes if cold, but you can only take off so many clothes if you're hot and sweating.
Same hear prefer being chilly than being hot and humid.
I'm a gringo, never been to Ecuador, but highly knowledgeable in first-hand experience in South America. Primarily Brazil & Colombia & I speak both Spanish & Portuguese, well. Truly hope I never have to move back to the US full time.
I spent most of last year in Cuenca, and will likely move there permanently at some point. All of your observations are spot on. For those planning any kind of extended stay, I would urge one thing above all else: Learn the language. Even if you don't become fluent, simply making the attempt to communicate with Cuencanos in their native tongue will open many doors and make everything about your stay better. During the time I was there, I lived a block east of the Municipal Cemetery (which is a fantastic place to visit), and I had an easy walk to El Centro. I rarely used the bus system, taxis were always a great option, and very cheap. The parks are fantastic--most homes in Cuenca have very small outdoor spaces, so families utilize the parks for their activities. I'm a basketball player, so I was pleased to find courts all over the city. The only negative is that they have no nets, but I took care of that at my neighborhood park by installing one myself.
I have to say I loved the weather, but people who don't tolerate chilly temperatures well might find it problematic. There are also heavy showers at times, but they tend to come and go, given the mountain setting. Almost no homes are equipped with heating, but when I was home, I was always comfortable in a set of sweats and thick socks. Daytime temperatures almost never go above 70 degrees, but it can definitely feel hotter than that with full sun exposure. Be sure to have sunscreen on hand.
Amelia and JP are absolutely right about the restaurant scene. You can find almost every variety of food in this diverse city. The second night I was there, I ran into a German bar called Wunderbar Cafe, where they have a nice variety of beers and some great food. When you have the urge for an American-style breakfast, wander down Calle Larga to the Sunrise Cafe. And don't forget to take advantage of the "almuerzos"--lunches, where you can sample local fare for under $5.
Writing about the city makes me miss it that much more, I hope to return again soon!
We miss it too! 😊🇪🇨
The two times I was in Ecuador the police tried to shake me down one time twice can you speak about police Corruption❤
It happens, and it’s one reason we recommend against renting a car. We talk about it here: ameliaandjp.com/how-to-avoid-a-common-rental-car-scam/
That's not normal, you must have done something ilegal, twice.
@@juanfernandolarriva3246 that’s right blame the victim for police corruption
Thanks so much, JP and Amelia. We miss that place and all of Ecuador for that matter. We'll be back and I even moved my retirement plans up. Thanks for bringing back some beautiful memories. Calvin and Misayo.
Thank you Amelia and JP for the beautiful video and thank you for sharing such a valuable information about the safety of our beautiful Ecuador, God bless you and stay safe.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great place! Had been to Cuenca in 2015. I remember visiting the Panama hat factory and was informed, this the place where it all started!
Banos, Inga Pirca is awesome as well! Long to once again visit Cuenca. Love from Dubai
I loved it there .. Banos as well.. felt safe and comfy there.. I do want to go back that's how comfy I feel about the country
I love your channel. Hope you guys go over a million subscribers 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽. Lots of love from Tampa.
I really enjoy your videos and insights. We will be visiting Cuenca soon and appreciate your information. We live down in Vilcabamba part time and we have never felt unsafe here. Our Ecuadorian neighbors are so kind and helpful. We are so grateful to live in such a wonderful area. Thanks again for your helpful advice!!!🙃
I've mentioned my solo motorcycle trip around Ecuador in one of your previous videos but on that trip Cuenca was absolutely one of my favorite stops and this video brings me right back to why I loved that city! I recognized a lot of things in this video and it well photographed and edited and was a fabulous trip down memory lane for me.
Such great timing for this video! Thank you!
Real sweet to share the local view! I think the weather would be the deciding factor for me, I need the sunshine ☀️, but Cuenca looks awesome 🤩
Is Tuberculosis an issue in Ecuador? Worse in certain specific areas?
Loved visiting Cuenca but it might be a little too cool for me on a year-round basis. I hope to check out Ibarra, in the northern part of the country, after the first of the year.
Yes, but it is OK if you wear two pair of pants and at least two long sleeves or three long sleeve top. I have to do it not to suffer cold and sore throat. Do not enjoy to use propane heater, it smells weird and to use el. heater is very expensive. Many times it is warmer outside then inside homes
It looks like summer highs in the mid 60s and lows in the low 50s on average. I live in Orlando, FL, and would take the Cuenca summer weather in a heart beat.
@@edtravelbug its only warm here for ca 3 mos the rest is colder and lotsa rain..comparable to the Pacific NW
@@ecuadorexpat8558 Wow, good information. It is hard to see or get data like that from the internet. I love the PNW for the summer but did not move there specifically because of the 6-7 months of mostly grey skies in the winter. If Cuenca is the same, that is a consideration for some people, including me.
It looks so nice there. You are both so fortunate to have each other to support each other on this journey of life. What a life well lived you are both enjoying. I hope to realize a similar journey soon. Life is honestly too short to live where you don’t like and feel valued. Overcoming our fears and doing those things that frighten us almost always leads to the most positive outcomes. Change is never easy, but I have found those who master change are those souls who get old without regrets. I wish you both all the best!!
Well put! 😊
I went to Cuenca 2 times un 2015, visited the national park Cajas AND fell in love. Went back to Ecuador in 2022 had my bag stolen with my passport, laptop, wallet, cash. Left with 5 dollars on the side of the road near Latacunga with pouring rain. Luckily a family took us in and provided for us. I still love Ecuador.
Unfortunately, that does happen. I got robbed in Mexico and San Francisco 😏
Well dayum! Sorry that happened. 😮 How did it get stolen?
At first I thought you were going to talk about Denver when I saw the title, haha. Love the channel guys!
Lived in Ecuador for 4 years thirty years ago…loved it then, love it now. At that time I visited Cuenca for only a day and met Senor Vega . Since then I have lived in five other countries around the world including “dangerous” China and Pakistan. US media has the hype for sure! I visit Cuenca now fairly often.
You are great!!! I love 💕 watching your videos!!!
Keep up the good work!!
God bless the both of you!!!
🙏🥰💋😘🙋♀️🇲🇽
Thank you so much!!
I know that the U.S. has many problems, I myself am looking to buy property in Italy, maybe for retirement. Many people love to point out the things they don’t like about the U.S., but then I ask myself why do more than 1 million people move here, every single year? Mostly from Latin American, I checked on google about how many Ecuadorians live here, and it said over 800,000. There must be some reason why they think the U.S. is a better option. Any thoughts? Thanks
ameliaandjp.com/why-ecuadorians-leave/
Ecuadorians leave Ecuador because the lack of job opportunities. There is little jobs available in EC. USA is the land of opportunities but it comes with a cost : unhealthy lifestyle. So it's true low class are better off in USA than in Ecuador. If you have a remote job or a monthly income, you will prefer to live in Ecuador to have a healthy life .
They move to the US because is safer in the USA then it is in Ecuador. I have family members in Ecuador that have been robbed at gun point multiple times. You can't even carried an expensive cellphone, or shoes Or earrings, necklace, because the robbers will snatch it from you. Plus organize crime violence happening throughout Ecuador.
@@anaruiz-zl2ip thanks for the reply. I from Ecuador and it's true this is happening but only on the coast area like Guayaquil, esmeraldas, Machala. My whole family is from the coast and haven't left. You just adjust to your surroundings. It's not nice but people find a way to live. I personally wouldn't live on the coast but the sierra region is super safe specially cuenca, Loja, Cotacachi, etc. I also recommend galapagos as it's super friendly and safe 😊👍🏻🙏
@@Nefertiti7788
It's not just the coast.
My brother lives in Cubaya and has been robbed on the Chaquiñan.
They even took his SHOES!!
Now he goes mostly to La Scala because it's safe to park, shop and eat.
I appreciate this video so much! My husband and I are looking to retire abroad in 5-6 years and Cuenca is near the top of our list. We're hoping to come spend a week there next year to visit and get a feel for if it would work for us. Thanks for all your great info!
Excellent idea as always! Thank you!!
Each country has its pros and cons. I would suggest that living away from crowded cities/areas is a safe bet but what do I know?
Glad you have adapted to the elevation!
I went in June to visit my family and has time to stop at Cuenca and Gualaceo and Punta Blanca ( beach) located near to Salinas.
It was safe. We rent a car 🚗 and travel with my kids and family. We have a great time
Lived in Manta for four months and loved it. Hung with Ecuadorians and had a lot of fun. Would have loved Cuenca but I can barely handle altitude in Denver, so close to 9k feet high would've been just to much.
You should have gone a little further, past Chordeleg, there is this little town called Sigsig, it’s small and is where most of the Panama hats come from. Las “toquilleras” do them by hand.
Every time I see one of your videos about Cuenca, I start dreaming of living there, maybe for a year. But I need to live in the quietest part of town, free from as much noise as possible. Where would that be? Thank you!
I spent a month in Cuenca and absolutely loved it. Although there were protests for much of the month and I was unable to get outside of the city, I always felt safe. Loved the people. I miss it!!
love you guys
I thought you guys had moved back to Cuenca! Where are you now?
I loooooove Cuenca. I spend about 3 weeks there over the past couple of years. And it is fun to recognize places from the images in this video. Hoping to get back next year.
Hey new great look girl !!! I hope some day you guys visit my home town Azogues ❤
I'm so glad I went last April before all this horrible chaos that is happening now. It breaks my heart what's happening. I made friends while I was there and I'm so worried for them
Our Thoughts About Ecuador Right Now…
ameliaandjp.com/our-thoughts-about-ecuador-right-now/
@@AmeliaAndJPthank you so much for sharing that!
Thanks for your videos Amelia and JP. I think I must have lost the location of where you currently live. The last I remember was that beautiful apartment in Manta, Ecuador. Are you still in that city?
My son and I moved to Ecuador 2 years ago from the States. We have traveled the country a fair amount and love Cuenca. We feel safer here then we did where we lived back home. The people here have been so welcoming. I lived a few years in Mexico and never felt safe or at home.
What was the medication you mentioned for altitude sickness?
A very modest dress. Thank you.
Bit of chaos there at the moment!
Very nice hair color 😍
My husband and I have been curious about moving to Cuenca and are here now for our first time. While we are enjoying many things about it, one thing that was unexpected to us is the traffic. We are staying in an AirBNB that is about a 20 min walk outside of the historic center. We like the neighborhood we're in and a 20 min walk itself isn't bad, but the crazy busy roads and gas fumes make it a bit of a bummer. We are hoping to visit some of the smaller towns nearby, as they might be more our speed. Regarding safety, we haven't felt unsafe at all since we've been here. Anyway, we always enjoy the videos and appreciate the info you give about Ecuador!
This is back to school week so traffic is worse than normal. When we were there in late July, it was very quiet.
Where did you go for dancing lessons? Do you have a place to recommend for cooking classes? Thanks!
Have you been to Cuenca, Spain? It’s East of Madrid. I just left Madrid a few weeks ago and only passed Cuenca. It does not have the altitude of Ecuador though. It should be safe there.
Looking at a 7 day guided tour by bus and excursions with max 22 other people which is inexpensive but only 3 star hotels with meals included through one of the travel companies. Good reviews but my wife is not impressed still. Does anyone have a recommended travel tour that they have used ? I don't want to go by myself or wander around without tours or an agenda. Would appreciate some feedback or recomendations. It's already starting to feel like fall in our area of Washington state.
Yay I made it into an Amelia & JP video! 😁
Haha! 🥳
We will be there in a month on our exploratory trip.
Love your videos! It sounds like both countries are politically stable . . . enough. Our country just got past a criminal minority president, and insurrection attempt in Janaury 2020, and we are pursuing appropriate criminal prosecutions now. Yes, Ecuador just had some riots too and an assasination and it sounds like is now taking appropriate legal action too. Both countries have some issues and if you pay attention and stay alert, both can provide a great place to live in spite of those things. Glad you are staying safe! Keep the videos coming!
Jan 2021
Criminal insurrection where the most heavily armed Americans came to overthrow the government and not one remembered to bring their gun. You cwazy dude!!
you ever considered the Philippines? Thousands of Amercans there, and they speak english. They also have the best beaches in the world, and are the nicest people in the world.
Why not move to Argentina?
Thanks for the informational video. What's the main reason you left and where in ecuador do you reside now?
The main reasons we left were due to the elevation and gloomy weather in 2019, but neither is much of an issue now. We no longer share where we live for privacy reasons.
Love it! What is the name of the cookies and snacks place? on minute 3:07
That’s Zatua Miski.
Thank You so much! Visiting in December! Can't wait@@AmeliaAndJP
Thank you for this!! And note to all Americans, my wonderful doctor who makes house calls, can you imagine? And when I got to the emergency room in the middle of the night because i think I am dying and they check me out very patiently and tell me I am fine and there will be no charge. Also: Idiomart!! And the best of all mercados: Feria Libre... Also: sitting in the sunshine in San Sebas Plaza.... The sun and the moon setting over the Cajas.... The sound of the river when you fall asleep in Gringolandia... Oh, and the processions, you didn't say about those: the Paseo!
😊👍
Hello guys. I'll be visiting Cuenca in February and I'm looking for a city guide who would take me to all different straw hat factories around town. Any suggestions please?
I liked Amelia's previous salt and pepper. Looked youthful.
I don't mean to scare people away from Louisiana but this is a place with high violent crime rates. What I noticed about the unfortunate rise in crime rate in Ecuador is that it seems noteworthy partly because it is uncharacteristic of Ecuadoran people. Anyway where I am moving to seems a lot safer than South Louisiana. Danger depends more on how you conduct yourself, what you spend your time on, and where you are in any country.
This is a very interesting channel. Visa requirements for Ecuador are very modest and reasonable. I already speak Spanish so I guess I would try yoga classes and tennis.
I feel bad for all of the people that moved there for the passports. 😮😢😮
Love the video, we love living in Cuenca. And we made it into an Amelia and JP video too! It pays to be an unconventional!
Haha! Love it! 😊
Amelia and JP, please could you let me know if you have to have the Yellow Fever Vaccine to go on holiday to
Ecuador. I only want to go on holiday to Countries that don't need any vaccinations.
None are required: ameliaandjp.com/vaccines-needed-to-visit-ecuador/
Anyone in Cuenca now that has information about the gyms and dare I ask, is there a “hot yoga” studio ?
Love you both and you’re helping our move abroad soo much!!!
Great! 🥳
Very interested but election violence is scary -- of course also scary in USA!
tentative plan is to vosit for 90 days and explore
Yo comprnde poquito Espanol -- y nada Quechua
One of the good parts is money exchange being nonexistent
I just got back from Cuenca about a week ago. Lots of great food options, wonderful restaurants and the architecture is very beautiful. I loved the beautiful parks near the rolling Tomebamba. My daughter and I moved around with no issues and did not let the recent events deter us. We also thoroughly enjoyed shopping at the Supermaxi. I’m moving forward with the plans to move to Cuenca.
Thanks for sharing!
Love your videos. I guess i missed it but where are Amelia & JP living now? Are they in Quito?
It's because of anonymous people online asking 'where do you live' that they don't disclose where they live. Think about this for a moment before getting upset. 😁
And because they had a scary encounter (maybe several) in Manta with a stalker-type. Can't blame them for finally being private!
@@GR-ju4db I’ve watched for several years so have no clue, but if you’re not a youtube presenter I’m betting you won’t have a stalker fan to worry about. On the other hand, I don’t know you! Lol jk
I thought you moved back there from the coast?
So where do you live now?
Been in Cuenca almost 4 yrs and wouldnt want to live anyplace else on the planet
Great! Thanks for sharing! 🥳🇪🇨
Where are you guys living now?
Love you hermana and hermano ❤❤❤
We miss you! 😊
I have no idea if money is an issue with you, but if you are renting, can't you live in Cuenca during the sunny season and move to the coast when Cuenca is in the rainy seasaon. Rent would likely be higher as you wouldn't have a yearly rental agreement but only be on month to month. We are currently looking at Europe, but I keep Ecuador and South America in mind. I am trying to find a place my wife can find acceptable.
Some people do that 👍
Hi. Regarding safety. On a per capita basis. My country, Canada, is on par wih the U.S. which is nothing to brag about. I've walked down the streets of Bangui, Central African Republic, and felt safer than walking down the streets of North America. It's all relative. Kel
So where do you live now? I got lost
This city gives me Assassin's Creed vibes
As always, thanks for the great video. Amelia mentioned something during the live video that is a pet peeve of mine and I've been thinking about it since. The majority of people in the US would like to do away with the twice a year time change. There have been studies showing it causes discomfort, health problems and elevated death numbers around the time change periods. March 15, 2022 the Senate unanimously passed the Sunshine Protection Act which would make daylight savings time the permanent time starting November 5, 2023. In order for it to become law and to happen, it would have had to have passed in the House and be signed by the President. That is too much to ask of US government so, the time changes continue.
As far as the dangers of being a victim of crime in Ecuador, I go with the truth that you lower your risk exponentially if you are not involved in criminal activity (drug trade). That used to be more true in the US but, anymore crime especially homicide is random. I knew the numbers were misleading in reports for crime in the US because people increasingly do not report crimes. Now I see that in the US city where I live they are reclassifying killings so they aren't counted as homicides. Lies, damned lies, statistics.
It's rather scary to see numbers on how little of what gets passed into law in the US actually corresponds to voter preferences.
Equadorian cartel also loves these things 😂
I think about moving everyday to another country
How much money do I need to make monthly to live comfortably?
😢😮😅😊
i was just in Ecuador for the whole month of august just got back to nyc, i was in Duran, Ecuador where some family live and that is one area where no taxi wants to drive, Esmeraldas, north side of Guayaquil and certain area in Duran. i would say stay away. but overall Ecuador is beautiful i been going there for 5 years straight every august for a month never had an issue, but yes this year a lot of people warn me, and the gangs extort the businesses which leads them to close.
whats the cost of living for 1 person who is minimalist? in cuenca.
Kevin, I lived there last year. I rented a 3-bedroom apartment about a 20-minute walk from El Centro. All utilities were included in a rent of $360/month--with internet. If you shop for vegetables at one of the local markets, you can buy what you need for a week for around $20.
Cuenca looks magical. I can't believe you ever left!
We were in Cuenca in 2013 and loved everything but the cool, cloudy weather. Cajas was awesome. The bus ride was a little scary from Cuenca to Guayaquil but we survived. We made our way to Salinas and Ballenita and even Montanita. We want to go back and explore new areas but are hesitant, especially near the coast. , however we would definitely go back to Cuenca! Keep the videos coming! We love your channel!
Great! Glad you enjoyed your visit!
We had a driver from Guayquil to Cuenca in May of this year. Overall, probably better roads than 10 years ago but still washout on some spots. Thankfully, we had an experienced driver and it was a beautiful trip!
I’m in Cuenca, third week of a yearlong (or more!) life adventure. Amelia and JP are like royalty; so many of us expats cite you as part of our discovery process. So thank and come on back now, ya hear?!
Where do you live now?
Loved this video
Trabaje en hosteleria y turismo, servicios generales, estoy buscando trabajo amigos
I am wondering why Turkey is missing from this list.
Erdogan
No visa for us.
Pl visit India
We went to India in 2019 and loved it! ameliaandjp.com/travel-destinations/kerala-india/
guys, I will be in cuenca soon, i hope to see you there!! come back!
And we miss videos from your new secret place! U stopped making videos or U are in US, most likely but can even make them there, U are good at it, why stop then?!
IT'S A SHAME that Ecuador and other expat havens are being ruined by the current DRUG VIOLENCE plaguing those nations.
And it's a shame that the US appetite for illicit drugs is fueling much of this.
@@leapintothewild_original AGREE 100% ! The USA is the largest consumer of illegal drugs, and has FAILED to curb the demand and eliminate the domestic drug dealers who facilitate this plague.
That is not something I saw at all while in South America, in the US I definitely saw it but SA nope. It all in were you hand out thou I think. You find what you look for in countries and these two obvious are enjoying life in safe and happy ways. Loving the videos!
We absolutely loved Cuenca last year for all of the same reasons you highlighted in this video. Safety is now on our minds as well, and we don't want to exaggerate the risks, or minimize them either....however, what I know for sure is that our historically "safe" Canada is now rampant with thefts, break-ins, political corruption, drug addictions , homelessness and multiple shootings most recently in West Edmonton Mall. We are weighing pros and cons of travel and appreciate your insight.
The whole world is not as safe as it used to be, but every country has areas that are safer than others.
There are tons of reasons to get out of Canada but if crime is one of your reasons, you may wish to scratch south and central america off your list.
I love Cuenca-the food is great (very cheap quinoa), great restaurants. beautiful architecture, friendly people, hot springs The altitude can be breath taking literally and the weather is cool. Also a great English language book store
I just finished performing as Dalton Trumbo in the play "Trumbo" at the Casa de Cultura. It's a tremendous city for culture and music.
By the way, I saw you two when you were in Cuenca. I left you alone, of course, to respect your privacy, and you looked like you were having fun. Thanks again for all your great work. - Kit and Kathleen
Aww! You should have said hola! We would love to meet you in person after all those zoom happy hours! Glad you’re enjoying Cuenca!
What are best dating sites for Ecuador?
Why would you ask a married couple that?
Where do you guys live right now?
Quite a few months ago they moved and declined to say where in order to maintain their privacy due to an incident or two. I hope my memory of their video report is close enough. I think you can understand.
Love Cuenca! I was there a month ago , Hospitaliy is top notch, Amazing culture, Amazing People. I strongly recommend Vacations in Cuenca ❤❤
Great! Thanks for sharing! 🥳🇪🇨
🥰 Thanks a lot for sharing and as usual, my plans have certainly not changed...
As I wrote (and meant 100%) elsewhere the other day:
Coming from Holocaust Denmark,
Having lived in colonial England and Norway as well as mafia-Ireland and likewise Italy, - no matter what I will experience in Ecuador, it can only be a million times better and, I look so much forward... 🤗🌹🌹🌹