An Expat Talks about Moving to Cuenca, 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.
We arrived here over a decade ago. A codicil: We are much traveled and have had homes in many countries over the last 60 years. We have learned not to cling to the stuff we grew familiar with in the last places. That is analogous to gathering barnacles. It is a horrible hassle dragging lifestyle items unfound in your new home with you from someplace else. It is ultimately cheaper to buy locally as 95% of items cost less in Ecuador and come with a usable warranty and local repair know how. I feel bad for people that try to drag everything along with them. When we arrived, then some IT items cost double. But we have learned to keep checking as this world is changing FAST. They have become cheaper every year and now are MAYBE 10% more expensive. Everything else is also, relatively, much cheaper and with the trade agreements with Europe and China there is a greater availability and options in many areas. For example, we chose the styling for our living room set (easy chair, love seat & sofa) and picked the cloth from 100s and had it all made for 1050$ in 10 days. Can that be done in your present home? Appliances are the same - many now being made in Ecuador or South America. (If there is option in this area, buy something with mechanical rather than digital controls). Even if you buy an American brand name, it is likely a bitsa made in from iffy parts outside of the US. You will save a fortune buying non-West products. and have less misery.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Cuenca
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Cuenca
- Tips for Expats Driving in Cuenca
- Cost of Living in Cuenca
- Health Care in Cuenca
- Discover the Best of Cuenca
- 11 Things to Know Before Moving to Cuenca, Ecuador
- 8 Tips for Living in Cuenca, Ecuador
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Ecuador
- Best Places to Live in Ecuador
- Real Estate in Ecuador
- Dengue Virus in Ecuador
- What It's Like Living in Cuenca
- Pros and Cons of Living in Ecuador 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Ecuador