AMAZING Things We MISS About Cuenca Ecuador! 🇪🇨

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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[stacywilson]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, these videos make me homesick for places I have never been.

[Infideles]

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!

[dh]

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.

[OllieCat]

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.

[christaiki]

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.

[KYATKAT]

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

[anacherrez]

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.

[satishnair]

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

[martaluzuriaga]

As an Ecuadorian I would say that Ecuador is no longer the same as before. With all the insecurity and violence going on now.

[Lov]

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!!

[HassanElmi]

I love your channel. Hope you guys go over a million subscribers 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽. Lots of love from Tampa.

[tricepilot]

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.

[joen.]

Is Tuberculosis an issue in Ecuador? Worse in certain specific areas?

[susanwaterworth]

Such great timing for this video! Thank you!

[MNessel-bd]

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.

[robertshannon]

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 🤩

[kristiG]

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.

[BillBliss-krgj]

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!!!🙃

[rogerhunt]

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.

[Mikell-hc]

The two times I was in Ecuador the police tried to shake me down one time twice can you speak about police Corruption❤