There’s been a growing conversation in the US around “solo aging” and solo living awareness; particularly as more people are living independently without traditional family support structures.

Organizations like AARP have begun highlighting this shift, noting that a significant and increasing number of adults are navigating later life on their own (estimated at over 24 million).

It made me curious how — or if — this shows up in expat communities, especially in places like Cuenca, where many people are building long-term lives abroad as retirees or independent workers.

In these contexts, the “support side” of life isn’t always as... Colleen Eschenburg

The University of Cuenca is starting a series of ten one-hour English conversation sessions with teaching staff at intermediate (B1-B2) level. Starting date May 5. On Tuesdays 6-7 PM at the central campus.

I am looking for a facilitator who is a native English speaker who does not have a pronounced accent. The objective of these sessions is to provide practice in speaking, build vocabulary and develop confidence. The range of topics is wide open. This does not require teaching.

I have done this with students for 8 years and 1 year with faculty. This is fun, rewarding and adds... Eric Fraterman

During my first year in Ecuador, I lived in the village of Challuabamba. I loved my life there. Let me take you on a morning tour of my favorite spots.

Let’s start with a visit to the Museo de la Gastronomia, which is about more than just food. There, you can discover the treasures this place holds, such as its beautiful gardens, its huge antique warehouse, meet all the animals that live there, enjoy the café and restaurant, explore the new craft workshop, and much more!

Next, we will visit Maria-Augusta at her shop, where she sells kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut,... Leticia Gerard

Visit Steffy’s new store! It’s super-exciting!!!

Located in the back of the Sunrise Café, Steffy will also be working alongside 8 other vendors from 9 AM through 3 PM Special pricing! Free Mini donuts! Free Mini Empanadas! And More!

When you visit her in the Sunrise Café, you can pick up (or arrange delivery):

Meals in a jar, ground coffee (low acid), Mexican food, kefir, artisan sausage, sourdough bread, kombucha, granola, energy bars, peanut butter, cutting boards, wood wax, artisan cosmetic products (shampoo, creams, relaxing masks), and organic tea bags are all available for you to stock up on.

Can’t... Steffy Villota

Join me for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to support the body naturally while creating your own remedies

Location: Santorino Restaurant, Parque La Paz (Imbabura and Remigio Crespo)
Monday, May 4th
12:15 – 2:30 PM
$38 (all materials, ingredients, and printed manuals included)

In this workshop you will:

– Create a tincture for external use with anti-inflammatory ingredients
– Make your own magnesium spray with selected essential oils to help ease pain and inflammation
– Learn natural approaches to joint pain and inflammation, with practical tools and ideas you can apply for yourself Linnea27strand

Cuenca Car Share, in support of the Cuenca Foundation, presents the movie “Michael” In English with Spanish subtitles.

It shows Michael Jackson’s journey beyond music, from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the leader of the Jackson Five to becoming a visionary star whose creative ambition sparked an unrelenting desire to establish himself as the greatest icon in the entertainment industry.

Come join us to help others by watching this great movie.

Remember, the Cuenca Foundation supports the needy. If you wish to make an additional donation, either at the door or by other means, please let us know... Emilio Morocho

Cuenca is full of hidden gardens and courtyards. I am sure you often walk right past them without even realizing these gems exist right in the heart of the city!

These patios and interior gardens are a legacy of the colonial era. They are one of the hallmarks of traditional Spanish architecture. Let me show you my favorites and tell you their fascinating stories.

Please contact me to see some photos.

Walking tour. Distance covered during the tour: 0.62 miles / 1,094 yd / 3,281 ft / 1 km.

Wednesday, April 29.

10 AM – noon.

$15 / person.

Meeting... Leticia Gerard

Navigating legalities and daily logistics in a new country can be overwhelming. I am a Licensed Attorney and Bilingual Translator dedicated to helping the expat community bridge the gap between English and Spanish with professional, reliable results.

Legal Services:
– Real Estate and Notary Procedures: Drafting and full management of Promissory Notes, Purchase Contracts, and all types of documents and processes at the Notary’s office..
– Estate Planning: Wills to protect your legacy in Ecuador.
– Representation: General and Special Powers of Attorney
– Legal Consultations: Get clear answers on local regulations.

Translation and Personal Assistance:
– Document Translation: English... María Penafiel

Taking care of your health shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be a smart, intentional decision. At BlueBox Asesores de Seguros, we understand that peace of mind matters, which is why we offer accessible solutions starting at $42.68 per month, with pricing that may vary depending on age range and individual needs.

Imagine having medical support when it truly matters. This isn’t just about insurance—it’s about knowing you’re protected, no matter what happens. That’s the difference between reacting and planning with confidence.

In 2025, we managed close to $800,000 in medical claims, delivering favorable outcomes for both healthcare providers and our... Carolina Anabel Segarra Toledo

First class cruise: Galapagos Legend Vessel (Capacity 100 person)
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment… this is it.
Exclusive last-minute prices for Ecuadorian residents on one of the most iconic Galápagos cruises.

• 5 days / 4 nights – Galápagos legend

• Standard plus: $2035 | Seniors: $1895

• Junior Suite: $2400 | Seniors: $2260

• Balcony Suite: $2955 | Seniors: $2815

• Prices per person, double cabin

• Includes

• Round-trip flights (Quito or Guayaquil – Galápagos)

• Ocean-view cabins with A/C and private bathroom

• Gourmet dining experience

• Welcome and farewell cocktails

• BBQ... Spbravob

¡Cuenca! – a new beginning has arrived!

​we are filled with immense pride and excitement to announce the birth of Luventus Vox Lyric Company, a collective dedicated to contemporary chamber opera and make our debut with Génesis — more than just a concert, it is the starting point of our story, where a passion for sacred music and the power of young voices unite to create something unique.

​we invite you to join us for the first note of a journey that promises to be unforgettable. Your... Jessica_chuquiguanga

Did you know that Inca warriors used to eat maca before going into battle? It gave them legendary strength and stamina.

It acts as a powerful adaptogen that helps your body fight daily stress while naturally balancing your hormone levels and igniting your libido.

Our Yellow maca is 100% pure and sourced directly from the high Andes; we work directly with growers and producers in Peru to support careful sourcing, traditional agriculture, and consistent product quality.

Our maca is: Jocelyn Solaque

Find your nahual, or spirit animal rooted in Mexican tradition, and turn it into a personalized mask!

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind mask using traditional cartonería techniques. you’ll start by working from a plaster face mould, then build and shape your design in clay before bringing it to life with layered paper and finishing details.

Along the way, you’ll be guided through a simple process of personal reflection to help you connect with the being or character you want to... Sarah Hanen

Come visit us: Gran Colombia and Unidad Nacional – Across the street from JDs Muebles
We are open Tuesday thru Thursday this week and closed for the holiday weekend. So order now for pick-up Thursday morning or delivery! Next week we will be open regular hours Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Our Menu (Freshly baked daily):

• Traditional Cuencano bread – $0.20 each
• Cinnamon rolls – $1.50 each
• New York cookies – $1.50 each
• Apple crisp (individual portion) – $1.50
• Pies of the day – $2.50 per slice

Whole pies:
• Apple,... Leita Hulmes

Wednesday April 29, our regularly priced $9.25 French dip will include a soft drink or craft beer for the promotioin price of $9.
This sandwich is already the favorite of many and we intend on creating a lot more French dip lovers!

Our in house baked mini baguette loaded with thin slices of succulent roast beef, caramelized onions and cheese then broiled is served with our delicious crispy fries, a generous portion of coleslaw and a container of au jus so you can dip it and savor... Robert

Need legal help in Ecuador without language barriers? XPERTLEX Estudio Jurídico provides professional legal services for expats, foreigners, investors, and English-speaking clients across Ecuador.

Abg. Junner P. Torres is a bilingual attorney (English–Spanish) with advanced studies in Procedural Law and experience assisting clients with immigration matters, contracts, business issues, real estate transactions, and legal consultations in Ecuador.

Why clients choose XPERTLEX:

• Clear communication in English
• Honest and practical... Junner Torres

There’s still time to order but not much. Let us know by 3 PM today what you’d like to order from this week’s fair menu.

Hot Brown Stuffed Buttermilk Biscuits: $4 each
A tender buttermilk biscuit baked with turkey, bacon, tomato, and cheese inside

Pimento Cheese: $18/lb. (pre-order only; max 10 lbs. available)
Our zesty spread made with aged Gouda, pimentos, and a tangy dressing to bring everything together in a creamy goodness. we’re sorry, but this item is sold out.

Bourbon Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cheesecake: $4.50/slice ~ $48 whole (10″)
Our decadent chocolate cheesecake decked out for the Kentucky... Double D's Delights Cuenca

Our farmers market is our favorite day of the week!!
Now we have it only every Tuesday from 8 till 10 AM.
You can find fresh vegetables, fruits, raw honey, free-range eggs, dairy, and more products! we, at Dos Sucres, serve breakfast and have sourdough bread.
We will wait for you!
Breakfast options from $2.50 till $6

Plus, we opened our bakery section at Dos Sucres, called El Obrador, so you can find bread from Tuesday till Saturday from 12:30 till 10:30 PM. Here you can find sourdough bread, different types of goodies!

We are located at Roberto Crespo and... Sofia Serrano

For those who remember the original La Mamminas, its closing left a real void in Cuenca—especially for anyone who appreciates truly exceptional Italian food. Their pizza was, without question, the best I have had in the city.

So it was a pleasure to discover that La Mammina Cocina has reopened with a fresh, practical concept.

Owned by María José Calderón Repetto, the new space is more of a gourmet take-home kitchen, located on 12 de Abril next to Fogo Restaurant and across from Los Nogales Mall. It offers the added convenience of on-site parking.

The menu includes pre-made, frozen Italian... Info_mmi5

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What happens to your donations of clothing and household items at Hogar de Esperanza? First and foremost, your donations are provided directly to individuals and families in our community who are most in need. we carefully ensure that each item reaches someone for whom it will make a meaningful difference.

Any additional items that remain after these direct donations are sold in our Esperanza Thrift Shop. All proceeds from sales at the thrift shop go directly back into supporting Hogar de Esperanza’s vital programs and services, continuing our mission to assist those facing poverty, illness, and other challenging situations.

Are... Contact_ssxo

Our expert painters take care of every detail and cover every corner of the house to avoid problems with paint splashes.
If you want your home to shine again with vibrant colors and excellent finishes, contact us.

We offer the full suite of painting services including interior , exterior and commercial painting as well as Decorative painting, power washing, color consultations, cabinet painting, wallcovering installation and removal. Outside of painting, we also do construction and repairs including plaster and stucco repair, and wood replacement.

We also pride ourselves on providing premium painting services at affordable prices.

• Interior Painting
•... Jorge Lara

And just like that, May is here. we begin the month with our five-course tasting menu—still just $20.

It’s a format we love: varied, generous, and deeply satisfying. Each dish is prepared fresh, the same day, and only upon request—never prepped in advance, never frozen. It’s a slower, more deliberate way of cooking, but one that ensures every plate arrives just as it should.

Simple, thoughtful, and made with care.

Book now by calling or texting 099 806 8071.

• Film #675: “Familiar Touch” •
Tuesday, April 28th | 6:45 PM | Doors open at 5 PM
A retired cook... Andres Zambrano

Dear friends,
Hemp hearts are available at Gramm!. we’d like to share with you some information about it:

Protein
Hemp hearts are high in protein levels. In every 30 grams (g) of seeds, there are 9.46 gms of protein. It is rich in amino acids, which are the building blocks for all proteins. The body cannot produce nine of these acids, so a person must absorb them through the diet.

Minerals and vitamins
It is an important source of: vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, including: niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B 6, folate, etc.

Boost Heart... Grammbulkshop1

Welcome to Pilates Cuenca.

At Pilates Cuenca, we offer gentle, therapeutic Pilates designed to help you reduce pain, improve mobility, and build strength safely. Our sessions combine Pilates, mindful movement, and mobility work, making them ideal for adults who want to move with more ease and confidence.

Benefits you may experience:

• Better posture and mobility

• Less stiffness and chronic pain

• Improved balance and strength

• More comfort and energy in daily life

Our programs include semi-private reformer classes (2–5 people)

Consistent practice at an accessible rate:

2× per week (8 classes/month)
$120 / month → $15 per... Ivorgonzalez

Many homes in Cuenca are beautiful. But not always designed for long-term comfort or safety. Stairs, poor lighting, and outdated bathrooms can become real challenges over time.

I’m a local architect specializing in home remodeling for retirees and expats. I help you adapt your home so it’s safer, more accessible, and easier to live in every day.

What I can help you improve:
• Reduce or eliminate stairs
• Improve lighting for better visibility and safety
• Safer bathrooms (walk-in showers, grab bars, better layouts)
• Easy-to-navigate living spaces
• Low-maintenance design for long-term living

I understand how difficult it... Markarchitect

At Salud Natural, we offer a wide selection of high-quality vitamins and supplements tailored to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to assisting you in finding the perfect products to support your health objectives. Whether you require immune support, an energy boost, or assistance with particular health issues, we have the solutions for you.

Visit Salud Natural at our two locations in Cuenca or reach out to us today to explore the benefits of vitamins and supplements in improving your quality of life.

Salud Natural has two branches in Cuenca:

– Ordóñez Lasso and Los Pinos ,... Ezzatollah Rohani Seissan

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Hello, Dear Expats!

I’m Dr. Priscila Matovelle, a specialist in geriatrics and palliative care.

Originally from Cuenca, I pursued my medical degree here before continuing my training in Spain, where I also earned a Ph.D. in elderly care.

After years of international experience, I’m thrilled to be back in Cuenca, offering personalized, compassionate, and high-quality medical care to the expat community.

I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate healthcare in a foreign country—having lived in Virginia Beach for a year, I truly understand these concerns and am here to provide expert guidance and support.

My services include:
... Dra Priscila Matovelle

Are you looking to master Spanish? Look no further! My tailored one-to-one Spanish lessons are designed to meet your individual needs and goals, ensuring you make rapid progress with confidence.

Why should you choose my one-to-one Spanish lessons?

• Personalized Attention: Benefit from undivided attention from an experienced and native-speaking teacher from Cuenca, who will focus solely on your learning requirements.
• Customized Curriculum: My lessons are designed specifically for you. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced learner, I tailor my teaching materials and approach to match your current level and learning style.
• Quick Progress: With personalized lessons, you’ll... Sandra M

Looking for a special and unique gift?

Come discover the Chicapán collection of original T-shirts, where art, culture, and creativity come together in every design. These are not ordinary shirts — each piece features original illustrations by artist Lenin Vallejos, inspired by Andean culture and nature.

Our garments are made with high-quality cotton, comfortable to wear, and produced in small batches so every piece feels special and authentic.

• A unique gift from Cuenca

• Original artistic designs

• Comfortable quality cotton

• Creative and cultural inspiration

If you want to surprise someone with something different and meaningful, come visit... Chicapán

Dr Lina Ulloa came highly recommended by a close friend of mine who had an excellent experience in his immigration process. Many others that my friend recommended have also been satisfied.

Lina and her staff made the process very easy and effortless through their fluent English and expertise through 20 years of practice. For my visa process I granted power of attorney for Lina and her staff so, from the beginning, they took care of all the details... Yourtruefaithinchrist

Description: Fully furnished, 1-bedroom, modern, top floor suite located in Cuenca’s Centro Historico. Includes queen-sized bed, washer/dryer, smart TV, cozy furniture, kitchen appliances, internet. Bathroom skylight, private terrace, all providing plenty of natural light, beautiful city and landscape views. Move in ready!

Location: Located in the quiet Bellavista northern sector of El Centro Historico, away from crowd and traffic noise. Only an approx. 8-minute walk from the heart of Cuenca near attractions such as Parque Calderon, La Cathedral, Plaza San Francisco, Plaza de las Flores and much more!

Suite Size: 48m2

Utilities Included: Water, gas, electricity, high-speed internet, HOA building... Luis Riera

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