Expat Community > Ecuador

roselenore
Joined 2013
Posts: 6

Some questions & intro

11 years ago

Hi,

My name is Rose Richtmeyer and I’m a single, 64 year old woman who was planning on moving down to Cuenca in a couple of years after I retired. But the end of April changed all that when I was in a major accident that resulted in a triple cervical spinal fusion and irreversibly impaired vision. It now looks like I’ll be moving sooner than expected. I and a friend who speaks Spanish fluently are planning on making an exploratory trip to Cuenca in September or October – my health and finances willing. My sister and BIL are also planning on moving to Cuenca and they visited EC in April-May. Originally, they were planning on moving before me; now things are kinda neck-in-neck.

I have a few questions that I hope you will help me with. I’ve been looking into this move for years now and actively reading the various bloggers, the forums, and every book I can find on moving to/living in EC. Gringo Tree had many recommendations, but, unfortunately they removed most of them just recently.

When my friend and I come down in a few months, I’d love to meet with some of you expats in person. Would that be possible?

Also, after much thought and consideration, I’ve realized that I would not be happy getting rid of everything but what I could pack in a few suitcases. Having some of my things around me would be important to me in a new place. I plan on getting rid of MOST of my stuff, but still bring a few pieces of furniture and other things I consider essential. I know many disagree with me on this, but I think I’ve made my decision on this point. Question: I need recommendations of the most reliable, affordable person/company to help me through the process of shipping some of my belongings down to Cuenca. Also, does anyone know when the clock starts ticking insofar as the 6 month window to get things down there without paying duty??

Sorry this is so long. I’ve loved reading all the various posts. Every day I’m working on my Spanish lessons. But the whole process is intimidating, especially for a woman alone with some degree of disability. Thanks for any help or guidance you can provide.

Rose

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