Dena Haines
Updated on
If you’re learning Spanish, you’ve probably heard of Madrigal’s Magic Key To Spanish. It’s our reader’s favorite Spanish learning book. We’ve seen 600+ purchases just from mentioning this book in an overview post. The week we arrived in Ecuador, someone loaned us their copy because they said it was the best book to get us started. It’s the book…
Dena Haines
Updated on
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…
Drew Haines
Updated on
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…
Dena Haines
Updated on
Is Cuenca Ecuador safe for expats? There are lots of stories and opinions shared online and over coffee at gringo hangouts. In this post, we’ll share what we’ve learned. And tips to help avoid being a victim of crime. This post was written by an American and a Canadian expat – with a combined 20…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
Buying a car is something we swore we would never do when we moved here a year and a half ago. We were terrified of the style of driving and the apparent lack of road rules. Well, we’ve loosened up a lot since then, and we are ready to be independently mobile once again. Our…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
The attraction for many gringos, of traveling and living in a foreign country, is the thrill of traditional open markets. When we first arrived here, we heard everything from: “everything is so cheap” and “its such nice / fresh / beautiful / unique products here” to “don’t go there – you’ll get robbed or mugged”…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
As you travel around Ecuador, you’ll see some amazing things. What are the best things to buy in Ecuador? What products are worth the price and what’s actually made in the country? In this post, you’ll find our picks for the best Ecuador souvenirs to bring back home! Best Things to Buy in Ecuador Here…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
So, what is Ecuador’s weather like? To help you plan your trip, here are all the details on Ecuador’s four climate zones. Ecuador’s weather is quite moderate with just a few exceptions. In this detailed weather chart for Ecuador, you’ll learn the best time to visit the areas you’re interested in. How’s the Weather in…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
If you’re curious about Costa Rica, this post will help. In this huge guide, you’ll learn 79 facts about Costa Rica, including food, attractions, political structure, population, cities, and much more. Plus, tons of photos and videos. 79 Facts About Costa Rica Thinking of visiting Costa Rica? Maybe retiring there? You’ll need to get familiar…
Bryan Haines
Updated on
Thinking about a move to Spain? I can’t say that I haven’t thought about it a few times. In this guide, you’ll learn 77 facts about Spain, including food, expat, politics, travel, national symbols, and more. Plus a ton of photos and videos. 77 Facts about Spain Those who speak Spanish fluently and feel confident…