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Live the Life is proud to announce the grand opening of the new Live the Life Lodge, along with the El Agave Restaurant and El Toro Bar!

The grand opening takes place today, April 2nd, 2016. There will be food and drinks, live music, dancing, and more, so feel free to join us!

There’s going to be a ping pong tournament, a horseshoe competition (starting at noon), Yuca pizza and barbeque, drink specials, dance lessons, and more.

For more info and reservations, you can email Drew at drew@livethelifeinecuador.com.

Live the Life Lodge

Our new lodge can serve as a rest stop for tours or a place to stay and relax during your adventures in Ecuador.

Some of its many features include:

Real estate office
Full-service organic restaurant
El Toro Bar
Clermo’s Juice Bar
Dine-in pizza kitchen
Swimming pool with snack bar
Jacuzzi
Sauna
Zip line
Volleyball courts
Fish ponds
Sprawling gardens with organic produce and rare plants
Organic seed store
Spacious 1 to 2-bedroom units
Large house that can accommodate up to 18 guests

Bird watching tours, hiking or biking trips, organic farm tours and trips to Cuenca, Mancora, the El Chorro falls, coastal towns, and other destinations can also be arranged at the lodge.

Hosteria LIVE THE LIFE

Filed under: Company Updates, Ecuador Real Estate Blog by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Should you invest in stocks or real estate?

Experts often advise a diversified portfolio or investments in both.

If your funds are limited, however, you may have to choose one over the other.

Stocks and bonds vs. real estate

Investing in stocks and bonds certainly has its advantages. However, investing in real estate – particularly those in a country like Ecuador – offers benefits that go beyond profitability.

Besides, the age-old question of stocks vs. real estate has taken an added dimension now that real estate properties abroad are available as investments.

For instance, properties in Ecuador present very attractive opportunities for people in the United States, because:

1. Real estate is a tangible investment

Investment experts say the biggest advantage real estate has over stocks is its tangible nature. You can actually see and touch your investment when you own a piece of property. It gives you pride of ownership.

2. Real estate is a hard asset

Real estate is less volatile than stocks. It guarantees stored value for your investment.

3. Owning property abroad means diversifying your portfolio

The low cost of properties in countries like Ecuador lets you diversify your portfolio by investing in various real estate options like single-family homes, condominiums, and commercial properties.

4. You’ll enjoy tax benefits

Your investment abroad gives you the same tax benefits as the ones you get in the US.

5. You’ll be part of a booming market

The government of Ecuador has made the real estate climate safe by opening its doors to foreign investors. With capital flowing in, more people are expected to make Ecuador their new home. You can take advantage of rising economic opportunities by buying now while real estate prices are low.

6. You’ll enjoy a better quality of life

This is perhaps the best reason for investing in a property in Ecuador. Its spectacular beaches, nature reserves, and rich culture and history make the country a tourist haven.

Ecuador’s excellent health and education services only cost a fraction of those in the US. In fact, prestigious publications have named the city of Cuenca as one of the best places in the world to retire in.

7. Real estate investments in Ecuador yield perks

If you buy an Ecuador property for profit and live in it for two years, it becomes your primary residence and you get substantial capital gains tax deductions for it.

And because you have a good excuse to fly to this beautiful country regularly and look after your property, the government allows you to deduct your travel expenses from your taxable income.

8. Real estate prices in Ecuador are a steal

Any real estate investment expert will tell you properties in Ecuador, especially when compared to those in the US and Europe, are some of the lowest priced in South America.

Ecuador Real Estate – Bienes Raices

To learn more about investment properties in Ecuador,contact us today.

Filed under: Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Real Estate Tips by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Rock-bottom prices are not the only reasons why investing in Ecuador real estate is desirable.

The country also offers a high quality of life at very affordable costs.

In fact, the city of Cuenca was recently cited in various lists as one of the best places in the world to retire.

Buyer’s market

Ecuador recently entered a buyer’s market, so now is the best time to make that investment. You will never run out of great options.

It’s important, however, to work with an experienced real estate agent.

We are here to make sure your interests are well-protected and to help you avoid stumbling blocks.

Business opportunity properties

Take a look at some of the excellent options we have on sale in Ecuador’s various growth areas:

• In Puyo, we offer a 103.78-acre(42-hectare) plot of land ideal for eco-tourism, fish farming, or cocoa and pitahaya growing, for only $100,000.
• In the heart of Cuenca, right in front of the National Electoral Council, check out a 3-story commercial property housing a 3-bedroom apartment, 9 independent spaces, a pizza restaurant, and two-garage spaces. Lot size is 3,875square feet (360 square meters) and floor size is approximately 5,167square feet (480 square meters). This multi-use piece of real estate is listed at only $500,000.
• Discover a 7.4-acre(3-hectare) land with more than enough irrigation and mature trees in nearby Yunguilla Valley. It includes a 3-bedroom house and is offered at $1.67 per square foot (or $18 per square meter).
• We offer a 2.7-acre (11,000-square-meter) irrigated land with high yields of fruits and vegetables and excellent pasture opportunities in the Cachiloma-Lentag area (also near Cuenca). It is offered at$143,000 only.

Residential properties

• In Tarqui, just 20 minutes away from the city of Cuenca, a 4-bedroom 4-bathroom country house occupies 2,303 square feet(214 square meters). It sits on two lots totaling 0.42 acre (1,700 square meters). The property is listed for $175,000.
• In Cuenca, a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom penthouse unit in Palermo, the capital’s most prestigious building, occupies 1,862 square feet (173 square meters). It also features a Jacuzzi tub, 2 parking spaces, and more – all for only $220,000.
• In Yunguilla Valley, a grand main house with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 smaller houses, and a custodian house sit on a 4.45-acre (18,000-square-meter) estate. The property includes a large pond, full irrigation, and many fruit-bearing trees. The estate is listed at only $380,000.

These are just some of the prime Ecuador properties you can invest in.

Ecuador Real Estate Opportunities – Bienes Raices

To find out more about these properties, contact us today.

Filed under: Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Real Estate Tips by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Obtaining an Ecuador visa is fast and simple.

Whether you’re traveling fresh out of college, a retiree looking for a serene place to live, or an investor seeking opportunities, Ecuador makes it very easy for you.

The basics

Ecuador has a number of visa options that come with their own benefits and limitations. Generally,there are only two types of visas in Ecuador. These are:

• The resident (or immigrant) visa
• The non-resident visa

Figure out how long you’ll want to stay in Ecuador to determine which visa to obtain.

Non-resident visa

Visas are not required for those who intend to stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days only. This courtesy is known as the “12-X.’

For those who wish to stay for more than 90 days, you will need one of the following visas, depending on your situation:

• Student Visa
• Professional, Technical, Consultant, or Official Government Visas
• Religious and Volunteer Visas
• Cultural Exchange Visa

Each comes with a set of requirements.

Resident or Immigrant visa

For foreign nationals who want to become a permanent resident of Ecuador, a Resident or Immigrant Visa is necessary.

Applications are approved by the Immigration Board in Ecuador.

Resident visas are issued to:

• Retirees who receive pensions from their native country
• Real estate and securities investors
• Industry investors with export plans for agricultural products, livestock, and minerals
• Companies with foreign local agents
• Technicians and experts contracted for a local company
• Professionals and university degree holders who want to practice in Ecuador
• Individuals economically dependent on spouses or blood relatives

For queries related to resident or immigrant visas, consult with a lawyer versed in Ecuador’s immigration laws.

Check out our Services page to learn more about relocating to Ecuador.

If you’re in the US and you want more information on the opportunities available in Ecuador, call 239-848-5876. For all other countries, check out the other numbers you find on this page.

Filed under: Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Expat Tips by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Ecuador may be only about the size of Wyoming and smaller than other countries surrounding it in South America, but its immense natural, physical, and cultural beauty surpasses many of its neighbors.

It’s a wondrous place to start your adventure in, whether you’re going on a short trip, or staying a lot longer.

We want you to experience all the good things the country has to offer. So we’ve prepared a list of safety and health tips for you to keep in mind before, during, and after your stay.

Before your trip

See a doctor
It’s important that you consult a travel medicine specialist for questions and medical recommendations about the place you’re going to, 4 to6 weeks before your trip.

Ask about recommended vaccines for the area
Whenever you travel abroad, it’s always recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations like diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine and your yearly flu shot, among others. For Ecuador, in particular, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly urge vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, malaria, and yellow fever, among others. Here’s a full list of CDC-recommended vaccines.

Have a first aid kit
Although Ecuador’s health care system is pretty good and can handle most emergencies and common illnesses, a well-equipped first aid kit is still a great thing to bring with you, especially if you’re going to a remote area.

Get travel and evacuation insurance
It just makes sense to get yourself covered. Insurance is pretty basic for most situations, whether you’re at home or abroad.

During your trip

Have a back up
If you can travel with someone else, that would be ideal. Otherwise, inform your hosts, the hotel concierge, or someone else about your whereabouts or schedule for the day,in case of emergencies, medical or otherwise. Let them know your mobile number and save theirs on your phone.

Be careful with what you eat
Be wary of food-borne diseases. Exercise caution when buying food from street vendors and make sure the ice or the water you drink comes from a safe source. When in doubt, go for purified, boiled,and bottled water.

Stay away from places with malaria
Mosquitos that transmit this deadly disease prefer low-lying areas. So,be extra careful when visiting these places.Follow your doctor’s advice about taking anti-malaria pills and protecting yourself against mosquito bites.

Avoid getting tattoos and piercings from dubious sources
Aside from unprotected sex, hepatitis B can be contracted from unsterilized needles used for tattoos and piercings. If you’re traveling to get a medical procedure, vet the surgeon or facility beforehand to make sure their reputation is above board.

Protect yourself from sun exposure
Ecuador lies smack on the equator. Even if it didn’t, it always makes sense to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays by using sunblock with a high SPF (sun protection factor). Wear a wide-brim hat and use an umbrella if you must. Bring water with you at all times, whether you’re on the beach or high up in the mountains.

Stay away from animals and insects
Do not approach, much less pet stray dogs or cats. Always be aware of your surroundings. If you encounter snakes or other animals, calmly back away and do not attempt to handle them.

If you do get sick or get into emergencies, seek capable medical attention as soon as possible.

Should you require assistance with anything, we are more than happy to help you, and will address any concerns. Just give us a call using the numbers indicated on the site, and ask us about the many different services we can provide.

Filed under: Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Health by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Ecuador has its own fair share of scary-sounding tropical diseases, but don’t fret – the country has excellent medical facilities and private clinics that will attend to your needs, but let’s hope that’s not the case. Steel yourself against these diseases while you’re in Ecuador.

Insect-borne diseases

Being a tropical country that is home to sprawling rainforests, it isn’t much of a surprise that insect-borne diseases are quite popular in Ecuador. Malaria and dengue fever are the most common insect-borne diseases in the country, particularly in the coastal region and predominantly during the rainy season.

To avoid getting bitten by a carrier, take care to make the following precautions:

• Cover as much skin as possible.
• Use light-colored clothing with a loose fit but tight cuffs
• Use insect repellent religiously.
• Use a mosquito net, preferably one that’s been treated with permethrin repellent.

Other insect-borne diseases include river blindness, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis, but these diseases are quite rare.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Often referred to as sorocheby Ecuadorians, AMS happens when you fail to acclimatize properly. It doesn’t matter if you’re physically fit – as long as the acclimatization process fails to match with your ascent pace, you’ve no escape from its clutches. Symptoms include insomnia, extreme tiredness, nausea, headache, confusion, and dizziness. To treat acute mountain sickness, you simply need to lose some altitude.

If you fail to recover from AMS, it can develop into two life-threatening forms: high altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPO) and high altitude cerebaloedema (HACO).

You’re most likely to get HAPO if there’s a build-up of liquid in your lungs. Symptoms include an increased pulsed rate and fever. If you get HAPO, please descend as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, HACO is HAPO’s more severe yet rare brother. HACO is caused when your brain gets waterlogged with fluid. You have HACO if you experience the following: loss of balance, severe lassitude, weakness on one side of the body, a confused mental state, and loss of coordination. HACO is fatal within 24 hours, so immediate loss of altitude and medical attention is of utmost importance.

We’re just barely scratching the surface of diseases in Ecuador. If you want to know more, check out this great article by Rough Guides. For any concerns, you can email me at info@livethelifeinecuador.com. See you in paradise!

Filed under: Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Health by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Whether you visit Ecuador as a tourist, a worker, or to seek permanent residency, knowing the location of your embassy or consul is not only useful but important.

Embassies and foreign consuls in Ecuador are located in the capital Quito or in Guayaquil.

Here are the locations and contact details of some of the foreign embassies and consulates in Ecuador:

The United States

• In Quito:
  Ave. Avigiras E12-170 y Ave. Eloy Alfaro
  Tel: + 593 2 398-5000/ Fax: + 593 2 398-5100
  Email: contacto.usembuio@state.gov
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  Calle Santa Ana y Av. Jose Rodriguez Bonin, Sector San Eduardo
  Tel: + 593 4 371-7000/Fax: +593 2325-286
  Email: acsguayaquil@state.gov

Canada

• In Quito
  Av. Amazonas N37-29 and Union Nacional de Periodistas, Eurocenter Building, 3rd Floor
  Tel: +593 25245-5499/ Fax: +593 2 227-7672
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  Avenida Francisco de Orellana, Number 234, Blue Towers Building, 6th Floor, Office 602
  Tel: + 593 4 263-1109 Ext: 101

Great Britain

• In Quito
  Av. Naciones Unidas and República del Salvador
  Citiplaza Building, 12 and 14th Floors
  Tel:+ 593 2 2970-800
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  General Córdova 623 yPadre Solano
  Tel: +593 4 256-0400 / 256-3850,ext. 318
  Fax: +593 4 256-2641

France

• In Quito
  Leonidas Plaza 107 y Patria.
  Tel: +593 2 294-3800 / Fax: +593 2 294-3849
  Email: chancellerie.quito@france.com
  Visit the website

• Consulate: Diego de Almagro
  1550 and Pradera, Edificio Kingman, 2nd Floor
  Tel: +593 2254-3110, +593 2256-9883 Fax: +593 2250-6468

Germany

• In Quito
  Edificio Citiplaza, Avenida Naciones Unidas
  Tel: +593 2 297-0821 / +593 2297-2820 / Fax: +593 2 297-0815
  Email: info@quito.diplo.de
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  Av. Las Monjas # 10 and Av. Carlos Julio Arosemena.
  Tel: +593 2206-867 / +593 22206-867 / +593 2220-6869.
  Email: consuladoaleman@investamaer.com.ec

Italy

• In Quito
  Calle Isla and Humberto Albornoz.
  Tel: +593 23211-322/ Fax: +593 23210-818
  Email: archivio.quito@esteri.it
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  Peicasa 423 entre Cordova y Baquerizo Moreno 1120.
  Tel:+593 4 256-8358 / Fax: +593 4 256-8447

Spain

• In Quito
  Calle Francisco Salazar E12-73
  Tel: +593 2 322-6296 / Fax: +593 2 322-7805
  Email: emb.quito@mae.es

• In Guayaquil
  Tungurahua St cor. Velez
  Tel: +593 4 601-7460 / Fax: +593 4 2365-844
  Email: cog.guayaquil@maec.es

Switzerland

• In Quito
  Juan Pablo Sanz 120 and Av. Amazonas
  Xerox Building, 2nd Floor
  Tel: +593 2243-4949/ Fax: +593 2 244-9314
  Visit the website

• In Guayaquil
  Tel: +593 4 2681-900 / Fax: +593 4 2681-997
  Email: consulsuiza@easynet.net.ec

Your embassy can help you in situations related to:

• Health emergencies
• Legal emergencies
• Death
• Missing persons

The embassy also provides non-emergent services such as:

• Absentee voting
• Selective Service registration
• Transfer of government benefits (e.g., Social Security)
• Acquisition and loss of citizenship
• Providing tax forms
• Notarizing documents

Filed under: About Ecuador, Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Real Estate Tips by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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View of Cuenca, Ecuador

2016 looms as another good year for Ecuador’s real estate market.

That’s because this country in South America is again on the list of International Living Magazine’s “Best Places to Retire.”

Ecuador placed second to Panama, which scored 93.5 points, or a mere 1.1 points away from the Latin American country’s 92.4 rating.

An extraordinary place to live

The numbers, so International Living Magazine says, is much more accurate this year, because it is based on a more comprehensive study.

Researchers didn’t just rely on graphs and digits. They also caught up with more expatriates and got them to share their experiences about living in Ecuador.

Ecuador scored high in 10 categories, including Buying and Renting, Benefits and Discounts, and Climate, where it earned the most number of points .

Top two cities

The capital city of Quito, laidback Cuenca and the town of Cotacachi are considered among Ecuador’s best places to live in.

Captivating beachfront homes and affordable agricultural lands are easy to find.

The country teems with beautiful places and smiling people ready to help you in any way they can.

Scenic

Where else can you find scenic mountains with snow-capped peaks, beaches, jungles, and diverse islands all in one charmingly compact area?

Some of the most breathtaking nature spots are just a leisurely walk away from wherever you happen to be.

Sunny weather ideal for outdoor sports, simply limbering up, and other healthy activities are a source of joy the whole year round.

Those who go for affordable living have many reasons to choose Ecuador. Budget-friendly beautiful homes with scenic views greet you at every turn.

Now’s the best time cash in on Ecuador’s booming real estate market.

To get you started, explore this site and see a wide array of prime property listings as well as guides and materials..

Estates in the following destinations will win your heart:

• Cuenca

Ecuador’s cultural heart and soul is rich in architectural wonders, beautiful churches and colonial style piazzas. Modern amenities make this city an amazing blend of tradition and innovation.
Housing options include:

✔Condo units with a spectacular city and mountain views

✔3-story homes

✔Garden homes in a gated community

✔Spacious single-family homes on prime riverside lots

Check out more real estate in Cuenca.

• Yunguilla Valley

Ecuador’s elite live in this paradise filled with sculpted landscapes and other for natural wonders. No wonder outstanding restaurants and entertainment, quality water, power and telephone facilities and a highway are found here. Don’t let its powerful residents and modern amenities deceive you, though. Homes in this peaceful place are easy on the pocket.
Real estate options include:

✔Vacation homes and estates

✔3-bedroom single family homes with acreage

✔Land with irrigation

Check out more real estate in Yunguilla Valley.

• Lentag

This little town, with its lush open areas and magnificent mountain slopes, is best known for its bucolic appeal. Residents enjoy peace and quiet in this haven, where stress is unknown and the living is easy.
Real estate options include:

✔Vacation homes and estates

✔3-bedroom single family homes with acreage

✔Land with irrigation

Check out more real estate in Lentag:

Pack your bags now and check out these wonderful places to stay in.

Filed under: About Ecuador, Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Real Estate Tips by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Get out of the comfort zone of your place in Ecuador and experience the outside world.

By bus

One of the cheapest ways of getting around Ecuador is to take the local bus, which also offers you a slice of local life.

Larger cities like Quito offer an extensive bus service that will take you to your desired destination. In Quito, for example, the “trolebus,” a trolley-like bus that runs on separate tracks, will take you around the city. Other types of buses in Ecuador include the busetas (22-seater and the fastest choice) and the autobus, its more comfortable and air-conditioned sister. For long distance travel, take the autobus de lujoor luxury bus, which leaves regularly, day and night. Just don’t forget to book your ticket before your trip.

By train

In contrast to Ecuador’s extensive bus services, train travel in the country is very limited. The most functional train that you can take is from Quito to El Boliche, but if you’re feeling adventurous, take the route called the “Devil’s Nose,” which will take you from Riobamba to Sibambe. You can also take the train and travel in the northern highlands via the Ibarra to Primer Paso route.

Although train travel in Ecuador is limited, train rides in this tropical paradise are a real treat.

By taxi

In most Ecuadorian towns, you’ll find yellow taxis that will take you to your desired destination. Most of these cabs operate on a fixed-fare system, though, while Quito has metered taxis. Fare usually costs around $1 – not bad, but don’t be afraid to haggle especially if you’re traveling longer distances.

By air

If you want to avoid Ecuador’s serpentine road network, take an airplane – it’s quick, convenient, and rather inexpensive. Up above on a clear day, you can enjoy unobstructed views of volcanoes and rainforests. Domestic carriers in the country include Icaro, VIP, Aerogal, and TAME. Meanwhile, local charters and small-scale companies operate on the coast and in the Oriente region.

If you want to know more about transportation in Ecuador, even to the roads less travelled, check out this great article by Rough Guides.

If you ever need assistance in travelling around Ecuador, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@livethelifeinecuador.com. We provide airport transfers as well as auto purchases. See you in paradise!

Filed under: About Ecuador, Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Travel by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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Ecuador is fast becoming known for its booming medicinal tourism, and for good reason. Here, you can avail quality health care for a fraction of the price you pay back in the United States.

High-quality and low cost

Whether you’re in the big city of Quito or Cuenca, or in a small village somewhere in the Yunguilla Valley, Ecuador ha a collection of clean and modern medical facilities that offer quality health care. Staff are well-trained and most of the doctors received education from the United States and Europe’s medical centers.

Expect the medical practitioners in the country to be well-trained. Some doctors in Ecuador even received training from renowned American and European medical centers.

A visit to a general practitioner can cost somewhere around $25 and $30, while a visit to a specialist can cost around $30-$40. As for ambulatory procedures, no need to shell out extra cash as such services are inexpensive.

Pharmacists in Ecuador are fully qualified to give away medical advice for minor ailments for free. As for generic medicine, such kinds in Ecuador cost much less than in the United States. No need for a prescription as most of the medications that require such paperwork in the U.S. can easily be bought over the counter in Ecuador.

Notable hospitals in Ecuador

• Hospital Alcivar in Guayaquil – Known as the oldest continual hospital in Ecuador, Hospital Alcivar originated as a small clinic and developed into one of the country’s most modern and largest medical facilities.
• Hospital Metropolitano de Ecuador in Quito – Inarguably the most famous hospital in Ecuador, Hospital Metropolitano was founded in 1985 and is considered the most technologically and procedurally advanced medical facility in the country. People flock to Hospital Metropolitano as it is most known for performing difficult types of surgeries. It enjoys a collaborative relationship with American institutions like Mount Sinai Hospital and Mayo Clinic.
• Hospital Universitario del Rio in Cuenca – the newest medical facility in Cuenca, Universitario del Rio offers state-of-the-art technology and attentive care. It was opened in 2009 and is fast becoming one of the most respected teaching hospitals in the international medical community.

There is still so much more to discuss about health care in Ecuador. For additional reading, you can check out our blog posts about medicinal tourism in the country here and here.

If you have any questions, email me at info@livethelifeinecuador.com. Once again, see you in paradise!

Filed under: About Ecuador, Ecuador Real Estate Blog, Expat Tips, Health by LiveTheLifeinEcuador
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