Community Posts
Choosing the right health insurance plan is crucial for good medical care and financial peace of mind. A pool plan groups the risks of multiple insured individuals into a common fund, which can result in lower premiums and greater cost stability. This type of plan is especially useful for groups with similar age ranges and pre-existing conditions.
Pool plans reduce costs by distributing risks among more people, allowing for competitive premiums. They also tend to offer broader coverage than individual insurances, including access to extensive networks of doctors and hospitals, specialty consultations, and preventive care. Financial stability is another advantage, as health cost fluctuations are better managed in a large group.
Choosing a good insurance advisor is essential to maximizing these benefits. Advisors with high production, low claims rates, and good market knowledge are preferred by insurers. However, some more expensive insurance advisors criticize pool plans for economic interests.
Since 2013, Bluebox has been dedicated to offering affordable insurance for expats in Ecuador, helping many with costly medical care. Our clients’ satisfaction is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of our services. A pool plan insurance can transform your healthcare experience, offering peace of mind and protection at a low cost. Read more: https://blueboxinsurance.com/the-benefits-of-joining-a-pool-plan-with-bluebox/
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Dear expats, you no longer need to go to government offices to obtain your visa, we can do it for you with a POA or submit it online.
In addition, we facilitate the process for visa transfers, cedulas and licenses.
If you need a will, EOL or POA, contact us for more information.
About us:
We have a solid standard of honesty and transparency in all the processes and services we offer. These characteristics demonstrate our responsibility and commitment to our clients. During all these years of experience we have satisfactorily resolved all clients needs and we have successfully processed all types of Visas and legal documents for Expats from different nations.
Our Team:
Luis Urgilés, is a retired judge and former President of the Provincial Court of Justice of Azuay, Master in Administrative Law, Commissioner of the ombudsman’s office in Azuay, Academic advisor and teacher of the masters in constitutional, political and administrative law of the Eloy Alfaro University, District Delegate of the State Attorney General’s Office Azuay, and more.
Indira Urgilés, has held positions as Ecuadorian Central Authority of International Adoptions at MIES (Ministry of Social Inclusion), National Attorney of Adoptions and Legal Status Clarification and Foreign Affairs Specialist. Honest and strong professional skilled in case study, legal interpretation, languages, Public Speaking, Strategic Planning, and more.
Karina Urgilés, She has worked for more than 10 years with foreigners, providing visa services, wills, real estate, etc., She is the founder and administrator of Expat Community Ec.
Contact information:
Beautiful house with Incredible landscape surrounded by ten acres of land.
The property is located at 2900 high altitude, in a town called Cumbe
The house has:
Two bedrooms
Two bathrooms
Big Kitchen
Fire place
Hall
Barbecue area
Big patio and garden
It is located a 20 minutes walk to Cumbe village, 12 minutes by car.
The buses are one hour frequent to Cuenca it takes approximately 40 minutes.
It’s a great place if you want some quiet and to relax
The farm has 24/7 security
It is a Milky farm you can gladly have fresh milk every day
You can get fresh eggs
The owners of the farm have made it an oasis, surrounded by native forest so you can do birdwatching, go for walks around it and look for deer. The farm has its own natural spring water that supplies the house.
All utilities are included (water, electricity and internet)
If you need more information please contact the number below. We would love to show you the property and give you all the information you need.
Contact information:
Join us for a unique live cooking workshop using traditional clay pots over fire, blending Ecuadorian cuisine with healthy vegetarian options and international flavors. Led by Ecuadorian Chef Tatiana Quito and American Vegan Chef Bela-Sofia Kotodama, this bilingual workshop offers an immersive culinary experience.
The event will be held on Saturday, September 21st, from 3 pm to 6 pm, and costs $12 per person. Your ticket also includes an Ancestral Ceremony and Andean Music Concert to celebrate Killa Raymi, the Fall Equinox. We will use local organic products and international spices to craft delicious dishes.
This is a reservation-only event, so make sure to secure your spot in advance.
Avenida Loja 2320 & Juan B. Vasquez – Café Ñucallacta, Cuenca, Ecuador.
Rumiñahui Duchicela: 0986190490
Contact information:
That’s right, Juan Estrella, a world-recognized magician, will be performing at Common Grounds on Monday, September 30th from 4 to 6 pm. He has performed here in Cuenca before, to much acclaim, but his show is different, as well as hysterically funny, every time. He will amaze you.
Buy your tickets now and know that you are also helping Hearts of Gold Foundation and its member organizations during these stressful financial days for all charitable organizations. As always, our thanks to Christian and Common Grounds for the use of their space (C. Eduardo Crespo Malo, just above Gran Columbia and a convenient tram stop). You might want to consider staying for dinner after the show. Their food is terrific!
Tickets cost $20.00 and can be reserved by texting the following contact number. Please leave your name and contact information if you email us.
You can also buy tickets this Saturday at Common Grounds Feria from 10 to 2 or at Kinti Nuna’s open house from 11 to 2. The address is Los Cipreses 11-15.
And keep an eye out – more exciting events coming up in October!
Contact information:
We’ve got something special every day of the week to tempt your taste buds!
Meatless: Our new Vegan/Vegetarian menu is a hit! Come try the Cauliflower Steak or Sweet and Tangy Tofu
Casserole Mondays: Comfort food cravings? Chicken Pot Pie and Shepherd’s Pie are back, plus our full menu.
Tex-Mex Tuesdays: Fiesta time! 2×3 Margaritas and Tequila Sunrises all day, plus all your Tex-Mex faves.
Pasta Wednesdays: Carb-load with Chicken Parm, Spaghetti Bolognese, Keto Zucchini Lasagna, or Cauliflower Ziti. Sip on refreshing Pineapple-Basil Juice.
Asian Lunch Thursdays: Quick and flavorful! Egg Rolls, Pancit, Mongolian Beef or Chicken and more for a midday escape.
Fish and Chips Fridays: It’s a classic for a reason! Crispy, flaky fish with golden fries.
Chicken Fried Steak Saturdays: Southern comfort done right. Tender steak, crispy coating, all the fixings.
Sunday Brunch and Live Music: The perfect weekend combo. Enjoy our brunch menu and soulful tunes. Happy Hour Sunday!
Come see us often! We’re located at the corner of Solano y Doce de Abril.
We deliver!
#SolanoBistro #CuencaEats #7DaysOfDelicious #VeganOptions #TexMex #Pasta #AsianLunch #FishAndChips #SundayBrunch.
Avenida de Solano y Doce de Abril, Cuenca, Ecuador.
Debby Degamo: WhatsApp: 099 109 9185
Contact information:
We don’t Just “meat” expectations, we exceed them! That’s your King Smokehouse motto. Felix is in the kitchen preparing his delicious meat loaf just for you. Y’all love his meat loaf dinners, but they don’t come around all the time. What do you do when you crave that fabulous succulent meat loaf? For two days only Felix will have in the shop Ready to Heat and Eat MEAT LOAF! Yeppers you can grab yours from the freezer at King Smokehouse and take it home so when that craving hits – you have your meat loaf. These generous (one pound of meat raw weight) sized meat loafs are just perfect for your dinner table, sandwiches, or a picnic snack. There are a very limited number of these available and only this Thursday and Friday. Once these beauties are gone they are gone. Make tracks to King Smokehouse just across from beautiful Parque San Sebastian. While you are there check out al the other gourmet goodies in the Tienda Gourmet. Yum Yum
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In order to buy real estate in Ecuador it is important to know that the purchase can only be made through a Public Deed granted by sellers and buyers in a Notary’s office in Ecuador. After the purchase-sale deed is granted at the Notary’s Office, it must be entered in the Property Registry so that the purchase is registered in the name of the buyers.
It is necessary to be aware that if you want to buy real estate, a private contract won’t work even if you have witnesses signing with the buyers and sellers since the law establishes that the only valid document that demonstrates an act of purchase and sale of real estate or a vehicle is through a public deed in the case of real estate; and, contract in the case of vehicles, granted in any Notary of Ecuador.
If you need more information, please contact Dr. Lina Ulloa or Attorney Jose Zamora at the following email addresses:
uz.asesoresecuador@gmail.com
uz.servicios@gmail.com
Contact information:
aco’s Blues at Common Grounds on Saturday Sept. 21st.
Come on out and dance with us!
Come enjoy great music, great dancing, and great company.
It’s going to be a great night, looking forward to seeing you.
Music kicks off at 5:30 pm and goes till later on.
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Saturday Sat. Sept 21st, 5:30pm till later on
Common Grounds: Eduardo Crespo Malo y Gran Colombia
Cover $7.00
Contact information:
Are you seeking a gentle space to heal and rediscover your inner light after experiencing loss—whether the loss of self or the death of a loved one?
Join us for Echoes of the Heart: Rediscovering Life After Loss, an immersive retreat designed to guide you through a transformative journey of emotional healing, self-discovery, and grief transformation. Nestled in the nurturing Andean landscape, you’ll be surrounded by serene nature and kindred spirits, where you’ll find the practical tools, mutual support, and spiritual guidance needed to reconnect with your heart’s deepest wisdom.
This retreat is for those seeking emotional healing and release. By honoring loved ones and reflecting on your relationship with loss alongside others who’ve experienced similar grief, you’ll have the opportunity to let go of the weight of grief and restore inner balance. Through guided practices and sacred, nature-based rituals, including the Andean San Pedro Medicine Ceremony and Temazcal (sweat lodge) ritual, you’ll alleviate feelings of isolation, disconnection, and loss. Experience increased self-awareness, companionship, and a renewed connection to life.
This collective healing will help you process your grief, find meaning in your loss, and develop the resilience needed to embrace a fulfilling life after death. Our time together provides practical tools for coping, allowing you to reprogram the subconscious mind and tap into a renewed passion for life.
Together, we’ll foster community and connection, offering ongoing support and inspiration to move forward with renewed passion, direction, and a deeper sense of meaning.
Early Bird: $350 (until 10/10)
Contact information:
To protect your investment in real estate in Ecuador, you should take into consideration the following:
1. The purchase and sale must be made through a public deed granted in an Ecuadorian notary’s office.
2. Some taxes must be paid by the buyer and other taxes must be paid by the seller.
3. The taxes and fees to be paid by the buyer are:
a. Municipality Taxes as buyer (ALCABALAS)
b. Notary Fees
c. Property Registry Taxes
4. The tax to be paid by the Seller is Capital Gains (PLUSVALIA).
5. You must make sure that the real estate is free of any charge or prohibition, by means of a certificate obtained in the Property Registry Office.
6. It is necessary to check if there are any outstanding debts on the seller name or on the property in the Municipality.
For further information, please contact Dr. Lina Ulloa or Atty. Jose Zamora at the following email addresses:
uz.asesoresecuador@gmail.com
uz.servicios@gmail.com
Contact information:
The Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS) has been essential for healthcare in Ecuador, but it is currently facing significant challenges that affect its service quality. Issues include medical malpractice, economic difficulties, a lack of medications, and long waiting times for consultations and tests.
Alarming cases such as incorrect surgeries and misdiagnoses have increased distrust in the IESS. The institute’s financial crisis, worsened by fund misappropriation, has led to shortages of medications and supplies, forcing affiliates to incur additional expenses.
Moreover, language barriers and extensive waiting times for appointments and tests further complicate the situation, putting patients’ health at risk. Long waits in emergencies, ranging from 4 to 8 hours, exacerbate the problem.
Given this situation, a private health insurance becomes a viable and necessary solution for both locals and foreigners. Private insurances offer quick access to doctors and specialists, personalized care, and comprehensive coverage of medications and treatments, ensuring a better quality of life.
Discover how our health insurance plans can provide you with the peace of mind and care you deserve. Visit our website and find the ideal plan for you and your family. Read more here: https://blueboxinsurance.com/the-current-situation-of-iess-in-ecuador/
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Saturday, September 21th at 7:00 PM
“Su Terry w/ the Jim Gala Trio!”
El Jardin restaurant in Hotel Victoria
Don’t miss this special event!!
World renowned saxophonist, Su Terry and pianist, Jim Gala perform at El Jardin restaurant in Hotel Victoria on Saturday, September 21th at 7PM.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of extraordinary jazz and delicious cuisine!
Concert starts at 7:00 PM. (Cover charge $10 per person)
Contact information:
Can you hear the difference when you pronounce the words “liter” and “leader”?
You know, writing is easier than listening.
Are you able to perfectly understand the cuencano newspaper while reading but absolutely unable to understand when listening?
If so, sharp your eyes and continue reading.
Catching a language is a matter of perception, that is why when you are not able to understand what is said, when you fail in perception your brain will immediately patch the misperceived words by the ones you already know, it’s a brain mechanism to make sense of the world of meanings.
Pauses and connections between words do matter! since this is the cornerstone to understanding spoken language.
If you struggle with listening to natives, learn how to listen to them: context and perception.
Interested in perceiving and speaking rather than reading or writing? This training is for you.
Where? at the comfort of your location in Cuenca Ec or at the comfort of your favorite couch for online learners.
Why? Because you can save some money trying on your own, unfortunately time invested in whatever you are doing like a no head chicken is something you can’t get back.
Again, your time, your call.
All the best,
LaVilmaVega.
Contact information:
Su Terry w/ the Jim Gala Trio!
Saturday, September 21st @ 7pm
El Jardin restaurant in Hotel Victoria
Don’t miss this extraordinary Jazz Concert!
Renowned jazz musicians Su Terry (saxophone) and Jim Gala (piano) perform at El Jardin restaurant in Hotel Victoria on Saturday, September 21st at 7PM. Immerse yourself in a memorable evening of extraordinary jazz and delicious cuisine at El Jardin, voted as Cuenca’s #1 restaurant in a recent poll!
Reserve a table now!
Jazz concert starts at 7:00pm. (Cover charge $10 per person)
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Saxophonist Su Terry had the audience spellbound with her sizzling performance of “Loverman” and the Jim Gala Trio was superb! —Noel Ferguson
“Jim Gala is a great talent—among the greatest jazz piano players alive. His creativity and musical depth enriches one’s soul. Destiny needs you; keep creating!” —James Hill, renowned jazz trumpeter and composer
“Cuenca is blessed to have such an artist in Jim Gala. I’ve played with some of the greats on both sides of the Atlantic, yet I have never heard such a transformative unique jazz pianist as Jim Gala. Simply put he’s a true musical genius.” —Bill Scott, Broadway Singer, & Arranger
“The jazz was better than I’ve heard at many NYC jazz clubs, and the food was delicious. It was a delightful and memorable experience.” —Frank Mangione
We look forward to welcoming you! —Leonardo Duran, Artistic Director
Contact information:
La Guarida invites you to:
The Coast – Seafood Workshop & Tasting
Friday, September 20, 11 AM | Cost: $25
Book by calling or texting 099 806 8071.
Join us for a delightful culinary journey to the coast, where you’ll master the art of seafood cooking with this hands-on workshop! Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a kitchen novice, this workshop will teach you expert techniques for creating mouthwatering coastal dishes. Learn the secrets to preparing fresh fish and seafood with confidence, all while enjoying the vibrant flavors of the sea.
In this immersive experience, we’ll guide you through preparing:
Classic Fish and Chips: Perfectly crispy fish with golden fries.
Rice Moro: A delicious, savory rice dish.
Fish Curry: A fragrant and rich seafood curry that will take your taste buds on an exotic adventure.
You’ll also discover the best methods for making fish stock—a crucial base for many seafood dishes—and much more. To top it all off, you’ll indulge in a decadent lunch featuring all the dishes prepared during the workshop, and yes, even ice cream!
This is more than just a cooking class; it’s a chance to connect with the rich culinary traditions of the coast, meet fellow food lovers, and take home recipes that you can recreate for your family and friends. Don’t miss this flavorful adventure—reserve your spot today!
We are located at Mariscal Lamar and Luis Pauta.
Contact information:
La Guarida is proud to present on the big screen:
YOUNG WOMAN AND THE SEA
a film by Joachim Rønning
this Tuesday, September 17th at 6:45pm .
Book now by calling 099 806 8071.
Reservations with dinner are required.
About
Daisy Ridley stars as the accomplished swimmer who was born to immigrant parents in New York City in 1905. Through the steadfast support of her older sister and supportive trainers, she overcame adversity and the animosity of a patriarchal society to rise through the ranks of the Olympic swimming team and complete the staggering achievement — a 21-mile trek from France to England.
We are located at Mariscal Lamar and Luis Pauta.
Contact information:
La Guarida is proud to present on the big screen:
CHICAGO
a film by Rob Marshall
this Wednesday, September 18th at 6:45pm .
Book now by calling 099 806 8071.
Reservations with dinner are required.
About
Nightclub sensation Velma (Catherine Zeta-Jones) murders her philandering husband, and Chicago’s slickest lawyer, Billy Flynn (Richard Gere), is set to defend her. But when Roxie (Renée Zellweger) also winds up in prison, Billy takes on her case as well — turning her into a media circus of headlines. Neither woman will be outdone in their fight against each other and the public for fame and celebrity.
We are located at Mariscal Lamar and Luis Pauta.
Contact information:
La Guarida invites you to:
SOUPS AND SANDWICHES
this Thursday, September 19th
anytime from 5pm to 9pm.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of three incredible and delicious soups. We will serve:
Chicken noodle, onion and tortilla soup.
Pair your soup with one of our three succulent sandwiches ($7), a perfect Falafel, crunchy chicken and meatball sub —all crafted to perfection.
Join us for an affordable yet delicious dining experience that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
A simple evening you don’t want to miss.
Contact information:
Blue Box CP
