Florimar is a 34-year-old Venezuelan mother living through serious health complications caused by a scoliosis surgery she underwent as a teenager.

For years she worked hard to support herself and her 14-year-old daughter by doing nails from home and selling fast food at night. But recently, her condition has worsened significantly.

She is now suffering from severe spinal pain, nerve complications, and bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, causing loss of strength and mobility in her hands. Simple daily tasks like holding utensils, cooking, and working have become extremely difficult.

Doctors have recommended urgent medical exams, specialized studies, and treatment to prevent...

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...

Sama Shala invites you to our upcoming sound healing sessions in Cuenca, created as a peaceful space to relax, release stress, and reconnect with yourself.

The sessions are guided in Spanish, making this a beautiful opportunity to relax while also practicing and listening to Spanish in a calm, welcoming environment.

You will lie down comfortably while the sound and vibration of therapeutic instruments guide the body and mind into a state of deep rest.

Upcoming sessions:

Saturday, May 16 · 5 PM

Sound Healing with Tibetan Singing Bowls

7 spots available

Friday, May 29 · 6 PM

Sound Healing with...

Join us for the annual meeting of and learn more about the work being done to support individuals and families in need throughout our community.

Over the past 10 years, Hogar de Esperanza has grown into one of Cuenca’s most trusted and stable non-profit organizations, providing real help to people facing poverty, illness, and difficult life circumstances.

During the meeting, we will share:

• Our annual financial report

• Current and future community programs

• Updates on our outreach efforts and services

• Opportunities to get involved and support our mission

Date: Saturday, May 16
Time: 2 – 4...

If you miss this Gran Feria Sabatino’s, you’ll have to wait three long weeks until our next fair on the first Saturday of June. That’s right–there are five Saturdays this month so that means you need to stock up on all of your favorites and come see our several new or second-time participants.

As usual, our vendors will be the stars of the show–no distractions interfering with your conversations. Here is who looks forward to seeing you on Saturday, May 16, between 10 AM and 2 PM.

• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food
• Artesana Breads by Rosemary
•...

Cuenca Car Share is proud to present a special screening of “Michael” (English with Spanish subtitles) in support of The Cuenca Foundation. While we celebrate the music, we’re also raising funds for those in our community who need it most.
100% of your donations go directly to the Foundation’s programs.

• Saturday, May 16th at 10:30 AM

• Millennium Plaza

• Tickets: $9

Skip the “monedas” (change) at the door! A $9 ticket plus a small donation makes for a clean, even bill and a huge impact!

Pick up tickets at Coffee Lovers (Gran Colombia 5-09 y Mariano Cueva)...

We kindly invite you to join our Spanish-English language exchange meeting.

The sessions are aimed at people willing to improve their conversational skills, putting them into practice in a realistic environment and with native speakers.

The sessions are guided by experienced facilitators and there will be games, activities and topics of conversations to stimulate interaction. It involves several people whose native language is English and several people whose native language is Spanish. we get together so that the former can practice Spanish and the later can practice English.

If your native language is not English, but you are still willing...

After a thoughtful Solo Aging Visibility Day (SAVvy) in-person gathering in Cuenca this week, I’ll also be holding a small online conversational space this Sunday for those elsewhere in Ecuador, or who simply preferring to join remotely.

Over the last few weeks, conversations around support, independence, solo living, community, and life abroad have opened much more deeply than I expected.

Many people living abroad have built meaningful, independent lives, but are also quietly reflecting on questions like:

• What actually supports my life long-term?
• How do we build meaningful community abroad?
• Who would I call if something changed?

We are Centro de Formación Artesanal Las Américas, a professional training center preparing talented students in their final stage of technical careers. With strong English skills and supervised practice, our students are ready to provide high‑quality services to the international community in Cuenca.

Services for Ladies:
• Manicure and Pedicure

• Haircuts and Hair Treatments

• Facials and Skin Care

• Waxing and Lifting

Services for Gentlemen:

• Haircuts and Beard Grooming

• Manicure and Eyebrow Care

• Facial Cleansing

• Gray Hair Treatments

All services are offered free of charge as part of our students’ pre‑professional practice.

Availability: Every...

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.

4 days / 3 nights
Standard Plus: $1666 | Seniors: $1556
Junior Suite: $1956 | Seniors: $1850
Balcony Suite: $2396 | Seniors: $2290

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 on the main deck

• Two daily excursions to exclusive sites

• Certified multilingual naturalist guides

• Snorkeling with marine life

• Unique beaches...

Do you need to complete a procedure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whether to apply for visas, transfers, the issuance of an Ecuadorian cedula, or any other procedure?

Since November 2025, the new Evisas system, implemented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has completely transformed online processes, causing confusion, delays, and difficulties for many users due to the new requirements, categories, and system operations; for this reason, Dr. Lina Ulloa and her team invite you to an exclusive webinar on May 28 at 11 AM. where they will clearly explain, step by step, how the Evisas system works, the...

Have you ever wished you didn’t have to own a car to see the sights? we exist to help you realize your dreams of exploring Ecuador. Cuenca Car Share rents late model, privately owned vehicles to you. If you don’t have a driver’s license in Ecuador, we can help you get one.

Our cars are meticulously maintained and every rental includes insurance. we maintain a small fleet of vehicles, so it is wise to book in advance. For example, a long weekend will occur in April when many people celebrate Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter. Call me to book...

Do you need to get airline tickets at the Senior price? This is not a problem. I’ll be happy to step forward and assist you. Big requirement though – you must have a cedula. Some who request the senior rate are only visiting and do not understand that the law clearly indicates you must reside in Ecuador and have the cedula. you cannot use anyone else’s ID.

I am well known in the Cuenca area for my skills as a handyman. I am also a certified plumber, capable of addressing issues with calefons (hot water heaters), fixing them and also...

As soon as you enter Trinity Church you will quickly discover why so many people are calling Trinity Church their home church. Your heart will be filled with peace and love; you will experience God in a profound way.

Join us this Sunday as we discover God’s vision for the church. At Trinity Church we seek God’s will in everything we do.

At Trinity Church, God is building His church with people of all ages, from newborns to those well into their 80s, people from many different cultures, countries, and backgrounds. Gringos and Latinos come together as one family, to...

We make the visa and cedula process easy. Our services also include visa transfers, citizenship, document translations and assisting you in obtaining all required documents from the USA.

Our focus is on customer service; we do this by:

1. Responding to your inquiries within 24 hours.

2. Providing our terms and conditions upfront.

3. Providing clarity as to the responsibilities of each party.

4. Our fees are indicated at the beginning of our communications; the only additional fees are governmental and notary service, which are market based.

5. we will provide translation services and any required power of attorney(s) forms...

This formula was developed by Dr. William Davis, cardiologist and NY Times best-selling author of “Wheat Belly”, “Undoctored”, “Super Gut” and his newest book, “Super Body”. Tested by thousands of users, with amazing results.

His patients claim this is very effective for dealing with a wide range of digestive issues like SIBO and IBS, inflammation, mood swings, and gut-brain-immune symptoms. Unlike most probiotic, this product is made with special strains based on years of research into the guts microbiome along with a very long fermentation time to yield 250 billion CFUs. These microbes have been missing from the western diet...

I just wanted to send out a reminder that our delicious frozen pies are available for delivery on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 10 AM – 1 PM. They are always ready for you to enjoy when you are ready for them. If you would prefer a cream pie, I can have a coconut cream pie ready for delivery with a 1-day notice.

We can also make your pie in a delicious gluten-free crust for your pie with a crumb topping! I have the perfect pie crust made with almond flour so they are safe for all of you that...

Did you just move to Cuenca to start a new life for yourself or your family?

Are you a retired expat who doesn’t understand how things work in Cuenca?

Do you need help and assistance with your daily routine in a Spanish-speaking country?

Look no further! I’m Matheo, a 20-year-old US-born and raised college student from Cuenca who grew up in Ecuador. I will happily assist you with your everyday needs.

• Need someone to help you communicate with Ecuadorian locals?

• Need someone to translate doctors’ orders?

• Need someone to help you avoid scams?

• Need a local...

Dear friends, organic guayusa is available at Gramm. It is an ancestral plant from the Amazon. It provides energy and vitality to those who drink its infusion. It has been drunk for centuries. we would like to share some of its benefits.

1. Balanced energy:
It contains the same amount of caffeine as coffee, but unlike green tea and coffee, it provides a more balanced composition of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and caffeine, which contribute to a slower release of energy.

2. Reduces fatigue and stress:
Contains L-Theanine, which has been shown to reduce...

We all know that quote from Forrest Gump; “My mama’ always said; “life is like a box of Chocolates… you never know what you’re gonna get.”

However, this isn’t the way health insurance should be!

With Global Safe Insurance Brokers it isn’t!

We’re expats like you, and know, at times with the language, customs, or cultural differences we may think; “Did I understand everything?”, or “Where do I go, or who do I contact for my claim?”

These are just some questions, doubts, and concerns you may have amongst the many others.

We have over 30 years experience in the...

You moved to Cuenca to live a full and vibrant life.

Like many others, you may be taking Spanish classes—but still find it difficult to speak with native speakers in everyday situations. That’s completely normal. It’s part of the natural process of learning a new language.

What you really need is consistent practice in a relaxed environment, where mistakes are not only welcome—they’re the starting point for real learning.

My name is Mónica Álvarez, and I’m a Spanish teacher. I’d love to guide you through this process. Just like my regular students, you can become an active part of the...

Tired of that weekly vacuuming, dusting, or (ugh) scrubbing the bathroom clean?? Or maybe planning a party and you want your place cleaned both before and after? The D’Ellas Cleaning Service takes care of all your needs.

We bring our own supplies and charge a very reasonable fee to leave your place spotless. Just contact Corazones de Oro (Hearts of Gold) at the email or number listed. we take care of the ladies’ schedules as a way to help support these single mothers who are working to build a better future for their families here in Cuenca.

Let the D’Ellas...

Good afternoon.

My name is Mateo Arias, and I work as a facilitator and translator for the expat community and local families in Cuenca. I have more than 5 years of experience providing professional support, guidance, and personalized assistance in many different areas and daily processes.

I speak Spanish, English, Italian, and French, and I would be happy to assist you with:

• Translation and accompaniment for medical appointments, hospitals, and specialists
• Banking, legal, and government procedures
• Internet and utility service arrangements
• Moving assistance, packing, and home organization
• Personal transportation and accompaniment
• Pet care and...

Take your shoes off…when you meet a new southern country, with a different culture, language, habits and ceremonies.

Be kind and humble when the people of a different country open their arms and let you enjoy and share with them their piece of land that they belong to. That is now where you belong too.

Take your time to observe, learn, re-learn, discern and earn by doing so.

In this culture we don’t take our shoes off in a literal way before coming into a place, but we warmly welcome visitors or immigrants, that’s part of the history of this...

Come have breakfast or lunch inside the restaurant before or after you shop. It’s an Italian feast with Sabatino’s famous fair specials. The full menu will also be available.

• Steak and eggs ~ $8 (until noon)
• Ravioli (spinach, chicken mixed) with sauce (pesto, creamy pesto, pomodoro) with fresh salad~ $8
• Chicken Parmesan with pasta ~ $8
• Cheeseburger (250g–that’s more than a 1/2 pound!) and fries ~ $6
• Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and fresh salad ~ $8
• Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes and fresh salad ~ $8

Our doors will be open by...

Discoverers Cuenca and beyond with a trusted English-speaking driver!

Hello everyone my name is Marcelo Parra, an experienced English-speaking driver and facilitator based in Cuenca. I offer safe, reliable, and personalized transportation and assistance services for expats and visitors, including:

Day trips and excursions
• Gualaceo and Chordeleg (artisan towns)
• Ingapirca (Inca ruins)
• El Cajas National Park (hiking and nature)
• Girón Waterfalls (adventure and scenery)
• …and more!

Airports transfers Comfortable, on-time service to/from Cuenca, Quito, or Guayaquil.

Assistance services
Help with car registration, cédula renewal, utilities setup, medical appointments, vet visits, and more.
My transportation...

Did you know you can save time and enjoy a spotless home by hiring someone reliable and trustworthy to handle your cleaning needs?
My name is Rosa from Rose’s House Cleaning, and I would love to become your trusted cleaning professional.

We provide:
• House cleaning
• Apartment cleaning
• Office cleaning
• Deep cleaning
• Move-in / Move-out cleaning
• Kitchen and bathroom detailing
• Dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and organizing

With over 10 years of experience serving families in the Hamptons, NY, we take pride in offering honest, dependable, and high-quality cleaning services with attention to every detail.

Forget...

Hello! My name is Sebastian Lasso, a professional nurse, US citizen, and bilingual (English–Spanish). I was born and raised in Cuenca, Ecuador, and graduated from nursing/medical school here in Universidad Catolica de Cuenca, I worked two years in the IESS and MSP, combining strong local knowledge with an international background.

I provide reliable nursing care and personal assistance for foreigners, expats, retirees, and travelers in Ecuador.

Services include:

• Vital signs monitoring, medications, injections, wound care
• Elderly care, companionship, and basic patient follow-up
• Accompaniment to hospitals and medical appointments
• Medical translation (English–Spanish)
• Transportation, errands, and general...

In Cuenca sits a small café specializing in healthy variety of Açai bowls and smoothies. Owned and operated by two young ladies (sisters) who learned their craft while living in NYC for a couple of years. There is a good selection of both and either can be customized to your liking. To my knowledge this is the only place in Cuenca specializing in these foods, and I have stopped by many times and simply want to help get the word out.

Not in El Centro, but conveniently located one block south of Remigio Crespo on Agustin Cueva (same street as...

Dear expat community in Cuenca,

Don’t let the worries stop you from enjoying art, culture, and human connection.
Cuenca is still full of beauty, creativity, and inspiring spaces waiting to be discovered.

We warmly invite you to visit two special art exhibitions in the historic heart of the city:

• La Casa Azul — a vibrant exhibition space filled with color, imagination, and contemporary artistic expression.

• El Salón del Pueblo — a collective exhibition celebrating local creativity, culture, and visual storytelling.

Come walk through colonial streets, discover Ecuadorian art, support local artists, and share meaningful moments with the community.

2008 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 Turbo

$12,000

• Blue exterior with tan interior.

• Automatic transmission good for city and hills.

• 130K miles/210K kilometers (very low mileage for the manufacture year).

• Sunroof.

• Almost new tires (3K); rated for 60K kilometers.

• New battery and alternator.

• New leather and canvas for interior doors and roof.

• Recently completed 125K mile Service Tune-up and oil change, including fuel injector cleaning.

• Run on “super” grade fuel for turbo performance.

• A/C and heating work great.

• After market, touch screen stereo.

• Includes spare tire and complete matricula kit.

It’s hard to find great books in the English language here. And, if you prefer to hold a book rather than a Kindle, I hope you will fill your library with our books before we move!

$5-$10, depending on size/condition.

If you are serious about purchasing our books, DM or comment, and we can arrange a time for you to make your selection.

Adult, juvenile, and reference books.

Other household items are also for sale, and our 2008 VW Passat Turbo 2.0. If you want our current list, let me know.

A few titles:
The Book Thief
Hunger Games Series