Being a Bad Host: Treating Parasites and Amoebas
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Being a Bad Host: Treating Parasites and Amoebas

Are you concerned about parasites and amoebas? When we first moved, we were too. And since then we’ve been sick many times. But don’t worry – it wasn’t as bad as it sounds. We have used a number of different concoctions – including some super strong anti-parasite meds. They were brutally strong; we were exhausted…

Are You Google Translating Spanish to English? (Video)
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Are You Google Translating Spanish to English? (Video)

Chances are if you are living or traveling in a Spanish speaking country you will use Google Translate at some point. Google Translate can be a help but it can also mess you up. Google Translate = Embarrassing Situation When we moved to Ecuador I used Google Translate (I didn’t know any Spanish) to prepare…

Higos con Queso (Figs with Cheese) Recipe: Ecuadorian Dessert
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Higos con Queso (Figs with Cheese) Recipe: Ecuadorian Dessert

A few months ago I discovered a new dessert in Cuenca: Higos con queso. Despite having lived here for four years, I tried this sweet dessert for the first time just a few months ago. Since then, I’ve had it many times. The recipe is pretty simple. In this post, you’ll learn about higos in Ecuador –…

Get Your Ecuador Drivers License: Guide to Driving in Ecuador
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Get Your Ecuador Drivers License: Guide to Driving in Ecuador

So Dena has her Ecuadorian drivers license. And she didn’t have to take a week long course, like I did to get my Ecuadorian license (detailed in the second half of this post). Guide to Getting an Ecuadorian Drivers License More than a year ago, we heard about a new program by the ANT (Agencia…

Hiking in Ecuador: Cajas National Park, Galapagos (Photos / Videos)
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Hiking in Ecuador: Cajas National Park, Galapagos (Photos / Videos)

Ecuador has hundreds of beautiful hikes. Hiking in Ecuador draws thousands of adventurers every year. In this post, you’ll learn about hiking in the Andes of Ecuador – including the Cajas National Park, and a mountain with a spectacular view of Cuenca. And hiking in the Galapagos Islands. Hiking Cajas National Park, Cuenca Ecuador We…

9 Spanish Phrases to Know When You Arrive at the Airport

9 Spanish Phrases to Know When You Arrive at the Airport

You have just landed at the Cuenca airport and you are anxious to begin your Ecuador adventure. But first, you wonder what you will say to people trying to help you. Everyone speaks Spanish, a language you are not familiar with. So what will you say? Here are a few simple phrases you need to know when you…

Expat Taxes: Who Pays What to Whom? Tax & Residency Issues (USA, Canada)

Expat Taxes: Who Pays What to Whom? Tax & Residency Issues (USA, Canada)

Learn about expat taxes for Americans and Canadians living abroad. Post is by 2 tax professionals, a CPA and an MBA in International Taxation. Plus, we share our experience while living abroad. US Taxes For Expats: 3 Things to Know Before Retiring Abroad Planning your retirement abroad? Here’s what you need to know about US…

Great Ecuador Treat: Salchipapas (Fries with Hotdogs, Mayo and Ketchup)
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Great Ecuador Treat: Salchipapas (Fries with Hotdogs, Mayo and Ketchup)

If you’re in the center of town, it’s a quick snack. If you’re at a restaurant, it’s an appetizer. May I present: salchipapas. You can get them anytime you want. You can even order them in from the pizza shop! Salchipapas are French fries, with a few little sausages. They also have a side of…