Articles

Which hospital do you go to in an emergency in Cuenca? How much does the ER cost? A quick reference guide to Cuenca's hospitals, clinics, and emergency services for expats.

How to get around Cuenca, Ecuador without a car — or with one. A complete guide to the tram, city buses, taxis, ride apps, and whether you should bother driving.

Do you owe taxes in Ecuador as an expat? The short answer: probably not much, if anything. Here's how Ecuador's tax system works for foreign residents, including income tax, IVA, and the key deadlines.

Your cédula is your Ecuadorian ID card — you need it for everything from opening a bank account to enrolling in IESS. Here's exactly how to get it after your visa is approved.

Confused by Ecuador's visa options? Here's a clear comparison of the Rentista, Investor, Professional, and Amparo visas — requirements, costs, processing times, and which one fits your situation.

Everything expats need to know about IESS (Ecuador's public health insurance) in 2026 — enrollment, costs, what's covered, appointment wait times, and whether it's worth it vs. private insurance.

Everything you need to know about moving to Cuenca, Ecuador as an expat — visas, cost of living, neighborhoods, healthcare, banking, safety, and the honest pros and cons from someone who did it.

Ecuador's Health Ministry just extended the national flu vaccination campaign by 60 days. Free flu shots are available at all 1,900 public health centers, public hospitals, and IESS facilities — no appointment needed. Respiratory viruses are circulating above normal levels. Here's what you need to know.

Alexandra Quintanilla, the second-highest elected official in Azuay province, was caught driving drunk at a Cuenca checkpoint, refused the breathalyzer, and showed a photo of someone else's license. A judge sentenced her to 30 days in prison and a $1,446 fine. Here's the full story.