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Villa Nova has a very convenient location. Maybe check out Hotel Cuenca & Inca Real as well.

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Bradley, if you’re here in Cuenca for a week I’d suggest you stay somewhere in El Centro to maximize your time. If you’re gonna be here a month subscribe to GringoTree (www.gringotree@cuencahighlife.com) and perhaps post a request for the type of housing you desire.

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I am not yet eligible for Medicare, Ted, but my understanding of the coverage is, yes, it cannot be used in Ecuador.

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This is completely a personal decision only you and your wife can make.

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The rainy season is roughly the first half of the year, but I wouldn’t let that alter your plans. It rarely rains all day–mostly just a shower or two. Plus it’s a little warmer then. Vaccinations are unnecessary unless you’re going deep into the Amazon, and even then they’re optional. Consult your physician and use your good judgment.

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Chrys, you won’t be surprised to know that Thanksgiving is just another day here for locals so no worries on this end. Christmas is another story and all depends on your travel days. Whether to arrive first in Guayaquil or Quito largely depends on where you’re coming from. Sites like Kayak will help you with that decision.

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There are over 200 lakes in the nearby Cajas mountains, and of course they are connected by streams. Many require quite a hike to reach. Until 50 or 60 years ago none contained fish, but trout have since been introduced. I’m sure there are some big ones patiently waiting for your flies.

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Robert, in Cuenca there is a very nice indoor pool at the University that is enjoyed by many expats. Our natural water is quite cold since it originates in the nearby Cajas mountains, but since you’re from Wisconsin you might find it refreshing!

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It is my understanding only EC citizens, with a ton of paperwork, can bring in firearms.

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Sure. Contact Maribel Crespo at crespomaribel@hotmail.com. She is bilingual, professional, and knowledgeable.

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Sorry. I just realized there’s a typo in my previous post. The address for GringoTree is gringotree@cuencahighlife.com.

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Hola, Bradley. Below is some info on where and when to hook up with expats here in Cuenca. This was taken from GringoTree, an online news and information site that you should probably subscribe to. The address is gringotree@cuencakighlife.com.

Gringo Nights in Cuenca

Tuesday, 5 – 8 p.m., DiBacco´s Italian Restaurant and Bar, 9 – 61 Calle Tarqui at Bolivar

Thursday, 5 – 8 p.m., DiBacco´s Italian Restaurant and Bar (Gringo Newcomers Night), 9 – 61 Calle Tarqui at Bolivar

Friday, 5 – 7 p.m., California Kitchen, Luis Cordero 5-65 and Calle Larga

Friday, 5 till closing, Fabiano’s Pizzaria, Calle Presidente Cordova 4-84 at Cueva

Friday, 5:30 – 8 p.m., Zoe Restaurant, Calle Borrero 7-61 at Sucre

Other gringo meet-up locations are: Café Eucalyptus, Calle Gran Colombia 9 -41 and Benigno Malo; Inca Lounge and Bistro, on the Barranco just east of Calle Benigno Malo; and Akelarre Bar, General Torres 8-40 and Bolivar.

We don’t own pets, but many expats do (although I don’t any who own six!). I’m sure you’re aware your situation will limit the availability of rentals, and an additional security deposit will probably be required. But I think you would be able to find something suitable. Perhaps you will meet other pet owners at one of the gringo hangouts, and you can certainly post a request for assistance and advice in GringoTree.

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Jack, you didn’t mention where you live and what major airport is closest to your home. We’ve had great luck with fares and schedules flying from Guayaquil to NYC. LAN has a nonstop flight between the two cities and Copa offers a convenient choice with a short layover in Panama City.

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Bill, not so much. For instance here in Cuenca there is only one private 9 hole course, and if you’re an avid golfer you wouldn’t call it outstanding. There are more opportunities in the larger cities of Quito and Guayaquil, but the low per capita income of Ecuador doesn’t support a plethora of choices.

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