General

Río and Sierra and Nomadas Bistro invite you to an intimate evening of handcrafted cocktails and culinary pairings.

Join us on Friday, June 19, from 5 PM to 7 PM for a special tasting experience featuring three original cocktails created with Río and Sierra’s small-batch artisanal spirits and liqueurs, handcrafted in Cuenca. Each cocktail will be paired with a complementary appetizer created by Master Chef Luis, thoughtfully designed to highlight and enhance the flavors of the evening.

This event is limited to just 15 guests, creating a relaxed and interactive atmosphere where guests can enjoy not only exceptional food and cocktails, but also learn about the inspiration, ingredients, and craftsmanship behind each pairing.

Date: Friday, June 19
Time: 5 PM – 7 PM
Location: Nomadas Bistro
Calle Larga y Bajada del Padrón

Cost: $35 per person
(Includes three cocktails and three appetizer pairings)

Reservations are required and seating is limited. Please respond by the end of Wednesday to hold your spot.

For reservations, contact Nomadas Bistro:
096 298 6352 (Call or WhatsApp)

Whether you are already familiar with Río and Sierra or discovering our products for the first time, this promises to be an evening of exceptional flavors, thoughtful pairings, and great company.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Río and Sierra
“Crafted in the Andes, Inspired by the rivers of Cuenca.”

Rick, 98 050 3540

City: Cuenca

Create your own handmade cards and postcards by combining illustration, painting, and embroidery in a creative experience full of color, texture, and self-expression.

We’ll begin by illustrating and painting directly onto the cards/postcards, then add embroidered details to give each piece texture, dimension, and a unique handmade finish.
Each participant will create up to 4 handmade cards or postcards to take home or gift to someone special

No previous experience needed.

June 18
11 AM – 4 PM
$40
Includes lunch and materials

Email us today to register for this exciting class: res@idiomartcuenca.com

Instructors: Cristian Leon and Belen Carpio

Only at idiomARTE: Where creativity connects us
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral; Cuenca

idiomARTE, Email Address: res@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca 

Hello everyone,

​My name is Alex. I am a Marine Biologist, Eco-Tourism Specialist, and a licensed Galápagos Naturalist Guide. I have lived and worked in the beautiful Galápagos Islands for more than 30 years.

​Before becoming a full-time guide, I had the privilege of working as a research assistant at the Charles Darwin Research Station (where I helped care for Lonesome George!). Over the years, I’ve also been invited to speak in the UK and US to share my passion for the archipelago.

​Today, I organize custom, small-group, and private island-hopping tours throughout the Galápagos.

​Why Travel With Me?

​Local & Stress-Free: Because I live here full-time, I handle all the logistics from the moment you start planning until the day you fly home.

​Community-First: I work closely with local families who have lived here for generations, ensuring your visit directly supports the island community.

​Tailored to you: Every itinerary is flexible. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, we can adjust the trip to your budget, time, and interests.

​What Your Adventure Can Include:

​Snorkeling with sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and rays.

​Visiting giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

​Exploring stunning volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches.

​Visiting all of the inhabited islands and hidden local gems.

​”Makes you happy, makes me happy.” — My philosophy is simple: I am dedicated to making your dream trip as seamless, meaningful, and memorable as possible.

Alex, Call/WhatsApp Alex: 099 351 5527 Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Ayora

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We are excited to introduce the British tradition of Afternoon Tea at the RestoPub.

Josie has been working tirelessly on this new project, sourcing the perfect products and baking delicious treats.

Every Wednesday starting at 3 PM, come and treat yourself to a delightful experience.

Indulge in a selection of English tea leaves and enjoy as many cups as you like.

For the savory part, we offer:

• Smoked salmon with cream cheese
• Brie with caramelized onions
• Egg with mayo and cress
• A slice of cheese of the day
• Grapes

On the cake selection, choose from fruit forest or lemon cheesecake, lemon drizzle, and Victoria sponge.

Lastly, on the top tier, savor a fruit scone served with fresh cream and jam.

All this for $15 per person plus IVA. To secure your spot, please reserve a table by sending a message via WhatsApp or email.

Sole, restopublayunta@gmail.com 096 781 6553

City: Cuenca

Address: Los Nogales 1-60

I am back in town and ready to receive massage clients. In case you do not know me…I have been voted the Best Massage Therapist in Cuenca, for 14 years running, by the GringoPost community.

My massage is a deep tissue massage, but “never too deep”. I will find the perfect amount of pressure to combine both therapeutic value and relaxation. I have over 40 years of experience in deep tissue massage, using a variety of modalities, heated table, and essential oils.

$35/hr, $40/75 min, or $45/90 min
I am located near the Jefferson Perez Coliseo, and easy to find.

Contact me for an appointment.

Cameron
593 099 987 4417

City: Cuenca   

StoryJAM is a dynamic and powerful event that honors and keeps alive the time-honored tradition of storytelling. Long before screens or even books, storytelling has been a way for us to share our traditions, connect, and make sense of the world around us.

The StoryJAM meets every second Thursday of the month, but we are changing the time to 6 PM.

June’s theme: Dads and Father Figures

June also includes something special:
At 5 PM, co-host Barry Callen will offer a session with practical tips for shaping a story, connecting with an audience, and calming those pre-stage nerves.

June 11, 2026
5 PM – Storytelling Tips with Barry
6 PM – StoryJAM Begins
$5 at the door

Guided by:
Barry Callen — musician, storyteller, and all-around good time maker
Ximena Moscoso — set designer, artist, and lifelong storyteller

Side effects of StoryJAM may include laughter, inspiration, and a mild storytelling addiction.

Only at idiomARTE — Where creativity connects us.
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral; Cuenca

idiomARTE, res@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca

As always, our bilingual storytelling open mic features invited storytellers alongside open mic slots filled on the spot. Whether you arrive with a story ready to share or simply come to listen, you’re part of the experience from the moment you walk in.

Hi everyone,

My name is Alex Arregui. I am a full-time resident of the Galápagos Islands, a marine biologist, and a Galápagos National Park certified naturalist guide.

For more than 30 years, I have been exploring, studying, and sharing these extraordinary islands with visitors from around the world. During that time, I have also participated in wildlife research with the Charles Darwin Research Station and have spoken about the Galápagos at universities in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

The Galápagos is not just a destination for me—it is my home.

When I help visitors plan their trip, I always ask myself one question:

“How would I want my own family to experience the Galápagos?”

That means plenty of wildlife encounters, enough time to enjoy each island without feeling rushed, comfortable accommodations, and an itinerary designed around your interests.

I specialize in personalized, land-based island-hopping programs and can assist with:

• Complete custom Galápagos itineraries
• Carefully selected local accommodations
• Daily tours and excursions focused on wildlife, geology, and history
• Inter-island transportation and logistics
• Private and small-group experiences for couples, families, and solo travelers

Having lived in the islands for three decades, I work directly with local captains, accommodation owners, drivers, and other island residents. This helps me create a personal experience for my guests while directly supporting local families and businesses.

Whether you would like to snorkel with sea lions, observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, explore volcanic landscapes, visit multiple islands, or photograph wildlife, I would be delighted to help you experience the Galápagos through the eyes of someone who calls these islands home.

If you’re considering a trip and would like recommendations, itinerary ideas, or a quotation, feel free to send me a message. I am always happy to help.

“Makes you happy, makes me happy.”

Alex
Call/WhatsApp Alex: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil

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Sharpen your Spanish storytelling skills while fine-tuning one of the trickiest grammar areas for learners: the past tenses.

In this dynamic workshop, participants will explore how to describe events, people, and places in the past using narrative vocabulary, storytelling techniques, and the correct use of the past simple and past imperfect tenses.

You will learn:
• How to structure a story in Spanish
• Tips for making your storytelling more engaging
• Connectors to link ideas naturally and smoothly
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• When and how to use the different past tenses correctly

Workshop Details:
June 9, 11, 16 and 18
11:30 AM – 1 PM
$50
Taught by Alejandra Herrera

To register, email: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com

This Spanish workshop is perfect for learners looking to fill in grammar gaps, build confidence, and tell richer stories in Spanish.

Requirements:
You should already be familiar with past simple and past imperfect tenses.

Only at idiomARTE – Master the Language; Live the Culture

Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca, EC

idiomARTE, To register: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca 

Hi! I’m Caro, a friendly and reliable local from Cuenca.

I speak English and I love helping you feel comfortable and at home.

I offer different services to make it easier for you:

• Local city tours
• Conversational Spanish practice
• Homemade Ecuadorian food experiences (daily or weekly options available)
• Pet Walking
• House cleaning and home help
• Assistance with local processes vehicle-related procedures because I work doing that

I’m responsible, kind, and easy to work with. Feel free to message me anytime.

Carolina, lolagarate6@gmail.com

City: Cuenca  

Hi everyone,

My name is Alex Arregui. I’m a marine biologist and certified naturalist guide with nearly 30 years of experience living, working, and guiding in the Galápagos Islands.

I hold a master’s degree from the UK and have conducted research for the Charles Darwin Research Station.

I help travelers experience the magic of the Galápagos in a relaxed and authentic way, avoiding the crowds and rigid schedules of cruise ships. Instead of a fixed itinerary, I design fully customized land-based trips tailored to your interests, pace, and budget.

Because I live here, I work directly with trusted local boat captains, drivers, and family-run hotels that I’ve known personally for many years. This creates a seamless insider experience while directly supporting the local community.

I take care of all the logistics, including:

• Hand-picked hotel reservations
• Inter-island speedboats and domestic flights
• Private or small-group day tours and snorkeling excursions
• Airport assistance and private transfers

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon, or island-hopping adventure with friends, I’ll help make your trip completely stress-free from start to finish.

If you’re thinking about visiting the Galápagos, feel free to send me a private message with your tentative dates and what you’re looking for. I’d be happy to suggest a custom itinerary and provide a quote with no obligation.

Alex, www.alexguidesgalapagos.com; galapagosalex68@gmail.com; alexguidesgalapagos@gmail.com; WhatsApp and contact number: +593 99 351 5527

City: Puerto Villamil

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BlueBox Insurance Broker proudly represented Ecuador during Move Abroad Con 2026 in San Diego, one of the most important international events for people exploring opportunities to move abroad, retire overseas, or improve their quality of life internationally.

The event took place at the iconic Hard Rock Hotel San Diego and brought together relocation experts, international companies, healthcare professionals, and attendees from across the United States and other countries interested in healthcare in Ecuador, retirement in Ecuador, international health insurance, and affordable living abroad.

BlueBox participated as the only Ecuadorian insurance brokerage presenting information about the Ecuador healthcare system, private healthcare in Ecuador, and health insurance in Ecuador for international residents and retirees.

During the conference, attendees showed strong interest in moving to Ecuador because of the country’s lower cost of living, modern private hospitals, affordable healthcare costs, and growing reputation as one of the best retirement destinations in Latin America.

Topics discussed included healthcare in Ecuador, private medical insurance, medical tourism in Ecuador, emergency healthcare services, coverage for pre-existing conditions, and how international residents can access private healthcare networks throughout the country.

BlueBox also shared real examples comparing healthcare costs in Ecuador versus the United States. Many attendees were surprised to discover that surgeries and advanced medical procedures in Ecuador can cost significantly less while still providing access to experienced specialists and modern medical facilities.

Cities like Cuenca and Manta were highlighted during the event due to their growing popularity among retirees, remote workers, and international residents looking for safety, comfort, healthcare access, and a better lifestyle.

The event became an important opportunity to position Ecuador internationally as a destination for healthcare, retirement, wellness, and quality living.

Read the full article here:

https://blueboxinsurance.com/healthcare-in-ecuador-move-abroad-con/

BlueBox Advisors, blueboxoperationsmanager@gmail.com

City: Cuenca

Led by Carlos Ramírez, CEO of BlueBox Insurance Broker, the company shared more than 14 years of experience helping international clients understand how healthcare and insurance work in Ecuador. BlueBox currently supports thousands of clients nationwide with bilingual assistance and personalized insurance guidance.

Cultura Viva combines Spanish language learning with art, culture, and community-based experiences, creating immersive opportunities to practice language through meaningful creative exploration.

This month, we have a new class called Language of the Body!

This course explores the human body as a powerful tool for expression, communication, and identity. Across eight sessions, participants will examine how the body has been represented throughout different cultures and historical periods while discovering the many ways it has shaped art, ritual, performance, and theatrical traditions around the world.

Through observation, writing, movement, and creative experimentation, participants will develop new forms of personal expression while engaging with themes of identity, bodily perception, symbolism, and contemporary art.

Our guest expert is professional classical Indian dancer Alejandra Herrera. She will guide participants through the dances and theatrical traditions of India, introducing the symbolic language of the hands, eyes, and the nine emotions described in the Natyashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts.

Tuesdays and Thursdays
May 26 – June 18
11:30 AM – 1 PM
Cost: $115 (includes expert lecture and workshop)
Level: Intermediate +

Class sizes are small. Contact us today to find out more!

Only at idiomARTE: Master the Language; Live the Culture
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca, Ecuador

idiomARTE, To register, email us at: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com

Star Singer appears soon at Yakumama Bistro Common Grounds.

The word “troubadour” is believed to derive from the Occitan word trobar, meaning “to compose” or “to invent.” Troubadours composed and performed lyrical poetry, usually accompanied by music, and became some of the earliest influential creators of literature and song. Their impact extended far beyond entertainment. Troubadours helped shape language, culture, education, diplomacy, morality, and even social behavior throughout medieval Europe.

Troubadours spread ideas across regions and kingdoms.

Troubadours traveled constantly:

• From castle to castle
• Across political borders
• Between kingdoms

As traveling artists, they carried:

• News
• Political ideas
• Cultural trends
• Moral stories
• Musical innovation

Social Impact

They helped connect different societies. Troubadours acted like:

• Medieval journalists
• Cultural diplomats
• International entertainers

Their Legacy Continues Today

Modern society still reflects troubadour influence through:

• Concert culture
• Singer-songwriters
• Poetic lyrics
• Romantic storytelling
• Musical activism
• Traveling performers

Conclusion

Troubadours improved society by bringing beauty, emotional intelligence, artistic expression, and cultural unity into a violent and fragmented medieval world. They elevated language, encouraged education, influenced manners, expanded artistic freedom, and helped shape the foundations of modern music and literature.

Their importance lies not only in entertainment, but in how they transformed culture:

• From purely military values toward artistic values,
• From silence toward expression,
• And from isolation toward shared human experience.

Past Star Singer performances garnished big applause, smiles, and a few laughs in Cuenca, Ecuador, at –

New Year’s Eve party at Los Balcones Hotel (Star Singer was featured in Cuenca High Life online magazine)

Star Singer (Robert Sanders) sang and strummed for The US Embassy’s “Mission to Ecuador” July 4th event in 2021 at Oro Verde Hotel.

Military Veterans of Cuenca enjoyed topical songs by Star Singer at Sabatino’s Garden Restaurant.

This promotion by Jerry Price

Jerry Price, starofmalibu@aol.com

City: Cuenca

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 new requirements, current response times, and the most common errors that are causing denials and delays in the procedures. They will offer you up-to-date professional guidance from a team that maintains constant contact with the Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, so you can complete your procedures correctly, securely, and without setbacks.

Address: Av. José Peralta 1-119 y Av. 12 de Abril Acropolis Building, Sixth Floor, Conference Room.
Note: Registration by email.

UZD Asesores, uz.asesoresecuador@gmail.com

City: Cuenca 

Starting the week of May 18, idiomARTE will begin a new weekly rhythm as part of a broader restructuring of our programming and space.

Beginning that week, we will be open to the public:
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
11 AM – 5 PM

Visits outside these hours will be available by appointment.

To schedule a visit outside regular hours, you can contact us at:

Diana Moscoso
email: dianaml@idiomARTE.com
WhatsApp: 099 447 2947

Sarah HB
email: sarah@idiomARTE.com
WhatsApp: 099 447 2951

idiomARTE, sarah@idiomARTE.com

City: Cuenca

Join us for a beautiful morning of music, art, and community at FloraCaffé Cuenca!

Saturday, May 16
9 AM – 1 PM
Garcilazo de la Vega and Primero de Mayo

Enjoy our largest bazaar yet, featuring:

Live concert with special guest artists:

• Cindy Benson (vocals)
• Luis Covarrubias (violin)
• Andres Bonvin (flute)
• Michael Scroggins (guitar)
• The voices of the GRACE Youth Orchestra children

A charming venue filled with flowers and a relaxed atmosphere

Local vendors and unique handmade products

Organic Ecuadorian vanilla beans (export quality) supporting our programs

Free entry – all are welcome

This event supports the GRACE Youth Orchestra, a program providing free music education to children and youth in vulnerable situations.

Come enjoy a meaningful morning and support a wonderful community making a real difference.

We hope to see you there!

Karla Betania, 095 920 4786 

City: Cuenca

Hi everyone, I’m Alex Arregui.

I’ve lived and worked in the Galápagos Islands for nearly 30 years, and I still feel incredibly lucky every day to call these islands home.

I’m a Marine Biologist and National Park Certified Naturalist Guide (#143). I completed my Master’s degree in the UK and worked as a research assistant at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the best Galápagos experiences are not rushed. They are the ones that allow you to truly connect with the wildlife, landscapes, and people that make these islands so special.

One guest wrote: “It felt less like a tour and more like following a beloved neighbor through his own neighborhood.”

Another said: “He doesn’t just show you a place — he helps you understand why it matters.” Those words meant a lot to me because they perfectly describe the experience I try to create.

I design customized land-based island-hopping trips throughout the Galápagos, tailored to your interests, travel style, and budget.

Whether you’d like to snorkel with sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, and reef sharks, see giant tortoises in the wild, or hike across volcanic landscapes, I take care of all the logistics so you can simply relax and enjoy the islands.

Because I live here, I work directly with trusted local captains, drivers, and family-run hotels I’ve known for years.

If you’re thinking about visiting the Galápagos, I’d be delighted to help you plan an authentic and unforgettable journey.

Alex Arregui

Alex, Call/WhatsApp: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil 

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You’ve taken your first steps in Spanish… now it’s time to build on them. Survival Spanish 2.0 helps you feel more confident in everyday conversations and develop practical skills you can use right away. Through interactive lessons, real-life role-plays, and engaging activities, you’ll strengthen your vocabulary, deepen your grammar, and learn phrases that make daily life in Spanish smoother and more manageable.

In this course, you’ll focus on practical situations such as:
• Asking for and giving directions, exploring the city, and moving around public spaces.
• Visiting the doctor, describing symptoms, and talking about health.
• Talking about the weather and making small talk.
• Handling everyday transactions like shopping, banking, and discussing clothing.

By the end, you’ll feel even more confident than you do today when using Spanish in everyday situations—and inspired to keep learning and exploring.

Class Details:
• May 27 – June 19, 2026
• Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 AM – 1 PM
• Cost: $100 (all materials included)

Email us today to register!

Let us help you turn language challenges into real-life opportunities!

About Your Teacher:
Classes are taught by Alejandra Herrera, a certified Spanish as a Foreign Language teacher from Ecuador with years of international teaching experience. we keep class sizes small to ensure personalized attention—sign up today!

Only at idiomARTE – Master the Language; Live the Culture

Mariscal Lamar y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca, EC
Survival Spanish 2.0 – Take Your Spanish to the Next Level!

idiomARTE, To register: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca 

What stories can the body tell? How can movement become language, emotion, and art?

This course explores the human body as a powerful tool for expression, communication, and identity. Across eight sessions, participants will examine how the body has been represented throughout different cultures and historical periods while discovering the many ways it has shaped art, ritual, performance, and theatrical traditions around the world.

Through observation, writing, movement, and creative experimentation, participants will develop new forms of personal expression while engaging with themes of identity, bodily perception, symbolism, and contemporary art.

Our guest expert is professional classical Indian dancer Alejandra Herrera. She will guide participants through the dances and theatrical traditions of India, introducing the symbolic language of the hands, eyes, and the nine emotions described in the Natyashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts. Using these tools, participants will create small embodied narratives that connect gesture, emotion, storytelling, and imagination.

Tuesdays and Thursdays
May 26 – June 18
11:30 AM – 1 PM

Cost: $115
Includes expert lecture and workshop.

Email us today to register!
We prefer small groups, so spaces are limited.

Cultura Viva combines Spanish language learning with art, culture, and community-based experiences, creating immersive opportunities to practice language through meaningful creative exploration. All classes are taught by certified teacher Alejandra Herrera, who is also a professional dancer and classically trained musician. In this special edition of Cultura Viva, participants will also draw from her extensive background in classical Indian dance as part of the course experience.

Only at idiomARTE: Master the Language; Live the Culture
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca, Ecuador

idiomARTE, To register: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca 

Tonight’s opening feels especially meaningful for us, as it marks the end of an era for idiomARTE. As part of the changes we’ve begun implementing, this will be our final art exhibition for the foreseeable future.

We’re honored to close this chapter with “Antagonista”, a striking new ink series by artist Daniel Williams, who has been an important part of the idiomARTE family for many years. we invite you to join us for this special opening night and celebration of his work.

About the exhibition:
Through archetype and metaphor, the exhibition reflects on the many selves we move through in life — protagonist, antagonist, observer, or something in between.

Blending religious and occult imagery with intricate linework and layered textures, the works move between clarity and abstraction, fragmentation and wholeness — pulling viewers into a world that feels both deeply personal and mythic at the same time.

Opening Night:
Wednesday, May 13 • 7 PM
Free Entry • Cash Bar

This is a unique opportunity to meet the artist and experience the exhibition through the artist’s eyes — to hear the stories, symbols, and inspirations behind the work, ask questions, and experience the pieces while the space is alive with the energy and conversation of opening night.

At idiomARTE: Where creativity connects us
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral

idiomARTE, res@idiomartcuenca.com

City: Cuenca 

Hi everyone, my name is Alex Arregui.

I’ve lived and worked here in the Galápagos for nearly 30 years, and after all this time, I still feel lucky to call these islands home.

I’m a National Park Certified Naturalist Guide (#143) and a Marine Biologist with a Master’s degree from the UK. Earlier in my career, I worked as a research assistant at the Charles Darwin Research Station. I enjoy helping my guests understand not only what they are seeing but also the “why” behind this unique ecosystem.

I specialize in personalized island-hopping tours across all the inhabited islands. I believe this is one of the best ways to experience the archipelago because it allows us to travel at your pace, stay flexible, and truly support the local community. I work directly with local captains, drivers, and family-run businesses to ensure your visit benefits the people who live here.

Stay with a local in Puerto Villamil, Isabela:

While I design tours across the whole archipelago, my home base is in Puerto Villamil. For your stay on Isabela, I offer comfortable suites located right across from the Flamingos Lagoon, just steps from the beach and facing the magnificent Sierra Negra Volcano. It is a peaceful spot to relax after a day of exploring.

Whether you want to snorkel with penguins, observe giant tortoises in the wild, or hike the volcanic landscapes, I take care of all the logistics so you can simply relax and enjoy the trip.

If you’re planning a visit and would like an authentic, expert-led experience, I’d be happy to help you design your journey.

Alex
Call/WhatsApp Alex: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil

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We all know the challenges in Cuenca right now, which can cause stress and pain in the neck, shoulders, mid-back, and lower back. To help, we are offering a special discount for the first 50 patients who call us in May 2026.

A treatment with volcanic hot rock therapy will cost only $10. you can add electro-acupuncture for $5, an activator adjustment for $5, dry needling for $5, and cupping for $5. Each treatment will be tailored to your needs and preferences.

We understand your needs, so call today. The first 50 clients receive this special offer. It may not be repeated.

Call our office:

096 818 9311
Address: Presidente Cordova 9-21 y Beningo Malo, Cuenca Ecuador

​After 30 years living and guiding on these islands, I’ve seen the standard way it’s often done: crowded cruises, rushed schedules, and cookie-cutter tours that barely scratch the surface.

​I believe the Galápagos should be felt, not just seen. To me, that means exploring at your own pace, staying a bit longer when the wildlife is active, and having the kind of local access that the big ships simply can’t provide.

​I’ve put together a few small-group, land-based departures for later this year. These are for travelers who want something more personal and authentic. By staying on the islands, we also work directly with local captains and families, ensuring your visit supports the community and stays in balance with the environment.

​Whether you’re looking to join a small group or arrange something private for friends or family, I design every trip to be unhurried and properly connected to the islands.

​If you’re planning a trip and want to do it right, send me a message. I’m happy to share the details and see if it’s the right fit for how you like to travel.

Alex, Call/WhatsApp: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil  

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Grab a brush and spend the afternoon painting with us.

Join local artist Cristian León for our monthly Tullpuna Painting Experience—a fun, hands-on session open to all levels. Get tips, try new techniques, or simply enjoy a few hours of painting in good company. Cristian is there to guide and support you as much or as little as you’d like.

Saturday, May 2 from 3 PM to 6 PM
$35 — all materials included
Email us today to reserve your spot at: res@idiomartcuenca.com

Each participant has their own creation station, complete with paints, brushes, an easel, and a canvas plate to work on.

At idiomARTE: Where creativity connects us
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca

I have lived and worked in the Galápagos for nearly 30 years. One thing I have seen time and again is that many visitors leave having seen the islands without truly experiencing them.

They follow the schedule, move from one crowded stop to the next, and leave without slowing down enough to understand what makes this place so special.

I believe the real Galápagos is found when you slow things down.

It is in those quiet moments on a lava trail when nobody else is around.

It is snorkeling beside marine iguanas, sea lions, and turtles at your own pace.

It is having the time to truly enjoy an island instead of rushing off to the next stop.

That is the kind of experience I help people create.

I am a marine biologist with a master’s degree from the UK, a former research assistant with the Charles Darwin Research Station, and a National Park Certified Guide (#143). I use that background to design private and small-group island-hopping itineraries for travelers who want a more authentic and better-planned alternative to the standard tourist route.

• No oversized groups.

• No rushed schedules.

• No cookie-cutter itineraries.

Just a better, more authentic way to experience the islands I call home.

If you are thinking about visiting and want to do it properly, feel free to send me a message. I would be happy to help you plan it.

Alex Arregui, MSc
Marine Biologist | National Park Certified Guide #143

Call/WhatsApp: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: http://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil

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Most people come to the Galápagos and only scratch the surface.

They see the islands from a boat, follow the schedule, take the photos, and leave without ever really experiencing what makes this place special.

The best parts of the Galápagos happen when you slow down.

Walk lava trails with almost nobody around.

Snorkel while sea turtles, penguins, and marine iguanas move right beside you.

Watch the islands change throughout the day instead of rushing off to the next stop.

That’s the kind of experience I help people have here.

My name is Alex Arregui — I’ve lived and worked in the Galápagos for nearly 30 years, and I’m a National Park Certified Guide (#143).

I organize small-group and private land-based island-hopping tours throughout all the inhabited Galápagos Islands and surrounding visitor sites for travelers who want to experience the Galápagos in a more authentic way than the standard cruise route.

No oversized groups.

No feeling herded around.

No “tourist conveyor belt.”

Just well-planned days, incredible wildlife, and enough flexibility to actually enjoy where you are.

If you’re thinking about coming to the Galápagos and want to do it properly—not just check it off a list—send me a message.

Happy to help you plan something that fits your dates, budget, and travel style.

Alex, Call/WhatsApp Alex: 099 351 5527
Email: galapagosalex68@gmail.com
Website: https://www.alexguidesgalapagos.com

City: Puerto Villamil

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Cuenca Living By Design offers real estate and design solutions tailored for expats. Living well in Cuenca begins with finding the right space that supports your lifestyle, comfort, and long-term vision.

Relocating to Cuenca is about more than just purchasing a property — it’s about creating a home. At Cuenca Living By Design, real estate guidance is combined with architectural insight, interior design expertise, and a thoughtful understanding of how people truly live within a space.

Key Features:

• Over 30 years of experience in architecture and interior design
• Specializing in staging and custom furniture
• Focus on layout, natural light, and long-term livability
• Customized living environment options available
• Access to a network of trusted local professionals

This design-driven approach allows clients to envision not only what a property is today but what it can become. Clients relocating to Cuenca often face practical questions beyond the purchase itself. Detailed layout planning helps determine what furniture to bring from abroad, what may be better left behind, and how a new home will function from day one.

For those seeking a more customized living environment, architectural planning, interior design, and locally crafted custom furniture — including down-feather upholstery — are available. Homeowners preparing to sell can benefit from thoughtful staging and design consultation to reveal a property’s true potential.

Relocating to a new country also requires trusted guidance. Clients receive access to a personally vetted network of respected local professionals, including visa facilitators, shipping specialists, attorneys, doctors, and home service providers.

Jeffrey Schmidt also serves as President and Co-Director of The Cuenca Foundation, reflecting a strong connection to the local community and a commitment to helping newcomers integrate successfully into life in Cuenca.

At its core, the philosophy behind Cuenca Living By Design is simple: Good design is achieved when the needs of the space are compatible with the lifestyle of its occupant.

If you are considering a move to Cuenca — whether buying, selling, or refining a living space — we invite you to reach out for additional information.

Cuenca Living By Design
You can view previous architectural and interior design projects as well as current real estate listings at our website: cuencalivingbydesign.com
For additional information contact: info@cuencalivingbydesign.com

Jeffrey Schmidt

City: Cuenca

Find your nahual—a spirit animal rooted in Mexican tradition—and give it form.

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind mask using traditional cartonería techniques. you’ll begin with a plaster face mold, then build and shape your design in clay before bringing it to life with layers of paper and painting the final 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 express—and translate it into your final piece.

You’ll leave with your finished nahual mask as well as your own plaster mold, so you can continue making other masks whenever inspiration strikes!

May 5–9 from 3–5 PM
$75 (all materials included)
Bilingual
Email us today to reserve your spot at: res@idiomartcuenca.com

About the facilitator:
Iván Sosa (Mexico) is a visual artist with over 22 years of experience and a member of the Espacio en Blanco collective. He has worked in theatre festivals in Mexico and developed projects across South America. In Ecuador, he has participated in the Festival de Artes Vivas in Loja and the Madre Tierra festival in Cuenca, creating and teaching masks inspired by natural elements and the environment.

At idiomARTE: Where creativity connects us
Mariscal Lamar 14-25 y Estevez de Toral
Cuenca

Inogen At Home
High-efficiency stationary concentrator, ideal for long-term home use.
Provides a constant oxygen supply (5 LPM) to improve breathing for individuals with chronic hypoxemia.
Weighs approximately 8 kg, significantly lighter than other models, making it easy to move around the home.
• Operates at a low noise level (around 40 dB), allowing for normal daily activities such as watching television or conversing.

Inogen Rove 6 – Freedom Without Compromise
• Intelligently adapts to the patient’s respiratory rate at all times (including shallow breathing).
• Up to 4.29 hours of average daily use outside the home.
• 42% of usage time allows the patient to remain active.
• Designed for maximum independence and uninterrupted daily mobility.

Clinical Beds
Multi-adjustable design that helps prevent pressure ulcers and supports assisted patient mobility.
• Total ergonomics: Designed to optimize care and reduce physical strain on caregivers.
• Environmental adaptability: Durable construction with a refined design suitable for both clinical and home environments.

Contact
Lourdes Gonzalez
+593 99 805 8852
099 805 8852
Instagram: conec.cuenca
Facebook: Conec Care Cuenca

City: Cuenca

Hi all

Bellow you will find a link to a blog into my web page, in this time the subject is:

Yes, an Ecuadorian Visa — But Which One?

https://www.visatoecuador.com/which-visa.html

Updated with current information and as always, happy to address any questions related to this process.

Ulises

City: Loja, Ecuador