Ecuador Live the Life
Search
Translate This

Archive for November 2015

You deserve the best: LiveTheLife’s customer service philosophy

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 24, 2015

Life should be lived to the fullest. This is the guiding principle of everything we do here at LiveTheLife.

And here in Ecuador, you can truly live life to the hilt.

Just imagine waking up every day to fresh air, gorgeous mountain or ocean views, pristine forests and shorelines, and good organically grown food. In Ecuador, your every day simple joys are truly worth waking up to – whether it’s the early morning bird calls, a freshly harvested basket of your own crop of vegetables, or the quiet of a starlit evening.

This is what we at LiveTheLife want to help you discover.

Our Philosophy

Whether you want to relocate, check out investment properties, or you simply want to de-stress and leave the hustle and bustle of the world behind, LiveTheLife is here to help you out. Our team of experts knows the best places to go and the properties with the most potential.

It’s all about offering you only the best.

We value our clients’ time and there is no point in giving you sub par recommendations. To live life at the fullest in Ecuador, you deserve nothing less than outstanding service. This involves:

  • Comprehensive service from the time your plane lands to the day you move in and beyond
  • Providing up-to-date and deeply researched market information
  • Dedicated representation throughout the real estate investment process
  • Advice on residency, staffing, legal and financial concerns, and more

Our Promise

At LiveTheLife, we do our utmost to ensure that our clients find what they’re looking for in Ecuador. Our staff in both of our offices at Lentag and Cuenca are well-trained and highly knowledgeable. Whether you are a casual traveler looking for a new trail or beach to explore or a serious investor out for a new piece of real estate to add to your portfolio, LiveTheLife will deliver the best results to you.

The Best Accommodations in Puerto Lopez

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 19, 2015

Finding the right accommodations is every traveler’s concern. While you are off enjoying the sun-kissed beach or snorkeling in the sapphire waters of the Pacific, you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a safe and comfortable place to stay at the end of the day. In the sleepy and rustically charming town of Puerto López, travelers will find many accommodation options.

Popular among tourists, especially during whale watching season, Puerto López has numerous options that range from cozy inns to luxurious hotels. Whatever your preference, you will surely find a great place to stay in Puerto Lopez:

    • Victor Hugo Hotel

Victor HugoThis waterfront hotel features wood and brick details with open balconies so you can better appreciate the view. Accommodations at the Victor Hugo Hotel are designed to cater to a wide range of people from solo backpackers to newlyweds on their honeymoon.

The rooms feature rustic wooden furnishing and are equipped with private bathrooms with heated showers. The Victor Hugo Hotel is also conveniently located to Puerto López’s primary attractions such as the Salango Beach, Frailes Beach, and Tunas Beach. This is the perfect accommodation for travelers who want to make the most of the area’s sights and attractions.

    • Piedra Del Mar Hotel Boutique

The Piedra Del Mar Hotel Boutique is a trendy hotel located just walking distance from the beach. It is also located very close to Puerto López’s various points of interest from shops to restaurants. Its architectural sensibilities are a melding of trendy design and comfort. The accommodations range from single-bed rooms to family suites. Each room has its own bathroom with heated showers.

    • Hotel Pacifico

Hotel Pacifico has been serving tourists and locals alike for the past 30 years. It boasts an oceanfront restaurant, beautifully appointed rooms, and friendly and expert service. Over the years, Hotel Pacifico has evolved with the changing times. It has undergone several renovations over the years to better serve their guests.

    • Hostería Cabanas Itapoa

Hostería Cabanas Itapoa offers guests a truly laid-back experience while in Puerto López. It operates froma charming house with lush gardens where visitors can choose from cozy rooms to spacious bungalows. Hostería Cabanas Itapoahas a distinctly relaxed vibe, with hammocks and a great view of the beach.

Tips for real estate investors in Ecuador

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | 

tips for investorsWith its abundance of investment opportunities, Ecuador is one of the top locations when it comes to overseas investing. One of the many reasons why the country attracts many foreign investors is its lenient investment regulations. Whether you’re a foreign or local investor, you can expect equal treatment – foreign investors basically have the same rights as Ecuadorian citizens.

If you’re planning to invest in Ecuadorian real estate, here are a few tips that can help you:

Get professional assistance

While you can land several good foreign real estate deals directly from owners, purchasing through a reputable real estate professional can save you from running into potential roadblocks when buying overseas property.

At LiveTheLife, we’ll make every effort to help complete each deal, keeping you well-informed throughout the entire process.

Translate any documents written in a foreign language

Have any documents relating to a real estate transaction professionally translated before signing them. Signing anything you don’t understand is incredibly risky – you will want to make sure you fully understand what you’re agreeing to.

Guard against potential legal issues

Even though Ecuador does not have that many restrictions when it comes to foreign investments, it’s always a great idea to seek the services of a locally licensed lawyer to assist you with your purchase.

LiveTheLife ensures all transactions are completed by attorneys who will conduct title searches and go through the necessary steps in order to guarantee an accurate title is delivered.

Look for a dependable foreign exchange solution

After you read, understand, and agree to the terms of purchasing an overseas property, the next step is to pay for it. It can get a bit tricky, as local banks usually provide sub-par forex services.

What you need to do is find better foreign exchange solutions that can allow you to make mortgage payments without any hassle, allowing you to save money as well.

Benefits of living in Lentag, Ecuador

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 17, 2015

The small town of Lentag is often overlooked by tourists looking for mainstream thrills, but very well-loved among travelers in the know of the best, hidden Ecuadorian secrets. Here are some reasons why Lentag will make you fall in love and even make you want to stay forever.

1. Lentag is blessed with a perfect climate.
You can fulfill your dreams of living in a tropical paradise in Lentag, a place that enjoys hot summers, cozy rainy weather, and a pleasantly mild climate all year round. The climate in Lentag is classified under the Köppen climate classification system as tropical moist, which allows its local flora to bloom and grow beautifully. Annual precipitation can reach up to 530 mm but just think of the heavens watering the bounties of Lentag. You’ll benefit from it.

Lentag

Lentag is a perfect place to find yourself and reconnect with the world.

2. A lush, tropical landscape.
If you want to “eat, pray, and love,” Lentag is a perfect place to find yourself and reconnect with the world. Its lush, tropical setting surrounded by the slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes provides a backdrop that is perfect for meditation and relaxation. If you’re itching for adventure, however, the next item will excite you.

3. There are plenty of recreational opportunities.
Whether you’re interested in extreme sports or cultural and artistic endeavors, living in Lentag lets you live in close proximity to such recreational opportunities.

Parque Extremo is a favorite among vehicle sports enthusiasts. Ride like a pro, whether you’re into F1, rallying, or motor cross. The town of Giron is also a short drive away – the place is popular for the El Chorro waterfalls. The cultural center of Cuenca is located farther up north, but a trip worth taking. San Fernando’s scenic Laguna de Busa is located west of Lentag.

Biking is also a popular activity in Lentag – the town is home to a network of trails that can accommodate bikers of all skill levels. Hiking is also another recreational pastime in the area.

4. A slower pace of life.
Basically, Lentag offers an opportunity for expats as well as travelers to enjoy a slower pace of life in Ecuador. Its warm and friendly people, delectable local fares, and scenic beauty make it an ideal place where you can enjoy the simple things in life to the fullest.

Benefits of living in Cuenca, Ecuador

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 13, 2015

The cultural heart of Ecuador, with its high-altitude location and well-preserved identity, may very well be what your soul is craving. What are the benefits of living in Cuenca? We’ve compiled a list of things that make life quite worthwhile in this historical city.

Cuenca as seen from the west

Cuenca as seen from the west

1. No pollution can contribute to a clean bill of health.
Located high up the Ecuadorian highlands, Cuenca’s environment is clean and safe. There is no shortage of fresh air for you to breathe – a startling contrast when compared to other bustling South American hubs.

2. Inspiration is everywhere.
Once the playground of esteemed philosophers, artists, poets, and writers, Cuenca serves daily doses of inspiration to its residents. If you’re a writer experiencing the much-dreaded block, take a stroll through Cuenca’s network of historic streets and get inspired. The same get be said for aspiring painters and artists who feel like they’re stuck in an artistic hellhole. Use Cuenca’s well-preserved historic buildings and rich culture to fuel your next project.

3. Stressful city life in Cuenca? Impossible.
While we can’t vouch that you won’t be completely impervious from stress as it is the effect of so many factors, you don’t need to worry about the usual city stresses that plague the residents of urban centers. If you need a breather, just go to one of Cuenca’s well-maintained and scenic parks to refresh your mind and just enjoy your surroundings.

4. It’s the place to satiate your Ecuadorian food cravings.
Food culture is alive and thriving in Cuenca. Cuenca’s streets are lined with restaurants serving up authentic Ecuadorian fare everyday – it’s practically a foodie’s paradise! If you’re also in the mood for intercontinental flavors, some of Cuenca’s dining establishments serve international cuisine (which is great, if you’re dealing with a case of homesickness).

5. The city is home to a warm community of expats.
Speaking of homesickness, sometimes we just want to talk to people who, one way or another, relate to our experiences. Cuenca is home to a vast number of expats who are always welcoming of new people who have decided to make the city their new home. Did we mention Cuenca is cheap, too? But you probably know that already, don’t you? After all, it’s one of the city’s biggest draws.

Cuenca Real Estate – Cuenca Ecuador Homes for Sale

To know more about Cuenca and its real estate offerings, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our numbers and email addresses are indicated at the right side of the screen (if you’re moving this on a desktop) or at the top of the page (if you’re using your mobile browser).

Medicinal Tourism in Ecuador

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 11, 2015

There are tons of reasons to visit Ecuador – the fascinating history, the exotic food, the outdoor adventures, and the stunning destinations such as the Amazon jungles, the Andes Mountains or the Galapágos Islands.

Few are aware that Ecuador is quickly becoming a top destination for far more important reasons – health and medical treatment.

What is medicinal tourism?

Medicinal TourismIn some ways, medicinal tourism is similar to recreational tourism. You travel, stay at a hotel, and possibly even visit a few attractions – the only difference is, you travel for reasons associated with your health and wellness. Majority of those who embark on medical tours usually do so since medical procedures in other countries are less expensive than back home.

Around the globe, other countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Korea, and South Africa already established themselves as popular medicinal tourism destinations.

Ecuador is definitely no exception. The country provides world-class healthcare options and professional service – all while being surrounded by some of the most unforgettable tourist destinations in the entire world.

Medicinal tourism in Cuenca

The city of Cuenca, in particular, is quickly becoming one of Ecuador’s more popular destinations for medicinal tourism. The city seamlessly blends their medical infrastructure with top-notch offerings such as cultural attractions, the pleasant climate, and urban amenities, creating a convenient and well-rounded experience for travelers.

The first-class medical clinics in Cuenca offer a wide range of procedures that include cardiology treatments, oncology treatments, orthopedic procedures, and bariatric surgeries. Additionally, the nearby town of Baños de Cuenca is popular for offering relaxation treatments such as natural geothermal spas.

Cuenca is one of the few places in Ecuador which provides both exceptional medical facilities with reputable doctors and an abundance of wellness attractions such as spas and resorts.

If you’d like to find out more about medicinal tourism in Cuenca or other areas in Ecuador, get in touch with Torrin Brauch at 239-848-5876 (US) or 097-994-7640 (Ecuador). You can also send him an email at torrin@livethelifeinecuador.com

Fun Facts about Ecuador

LiveTheLifeinEcuador  | November 5, 2015

EcuadorEcuador is a place teeming with biodiversity – and interesting facts! Here are some tidbits that will help you discover more about this great South American nation.

1. Spanish is widely spoken, but don’t be surprised if you hear them speaking an unfamiliar language.
Spanish is the country’s official language, but there are about ten native languages spoken all over the country. The Inca language Quicha is often used by Ecuador’s Indian population.

2. Ecuador is not just biodiverse – it’s “megadiverse.”
As of date, there are seventeen countries listed as “megadiverse,” and Ecuador is one of them. Every square kilometer of this country is considered as one of the most biodiverse in the world.

3. The summit of Ecuador’s Chimborazo Volcano is the furthest point from the center of the Earth.
Mount Everest might be the tallest mountain on Earth, but the summit of Chimborazo is considered by experts to be the farthest point from the center of the Earth. The total distance of its summit from the planet’s core is approximately 6,384.4 kilometers, which is more or less 2000 meters more than the distance of Everest’s peak to the center. If we’re going to include this distance, then Chimborazo certainly is the taller than Everest. Chimborazo is also the highest peak near the equator.

4. Some Amazonian native tribes managed to resist the Spanish conquest and even the Incas.
Deep within Ecuador’s inland forests are native tribes that have managed to preserve their cultural traditions up to this day without interference from foreign rule or modern influence.

5. Quito may be the capital, but it’s not the biggest city.
Santiago de Guayaquil, more commonly known as Guayaquil, takes the throne as the largest and most populous city in Ecuador. It is home to about 2.3 million people, while Quito is home to roughly 2.2 million inhabitants.

6. Ecuador for the equator.
Ecuador holds the distinction as the only country in the world named after a geographical feature, the equator.

7. Ecuador was once part of the Gran Colombia.
Ecuador joined the nation called Gran Colombia, which included Venezuela and Colombia, sometime between 1822 and 1830 after they were freed from the Spaniards. It wasn’t successful however, and Ecuador became a republic in the 1830s.