YapaTree

17/03/2024

We visited the dinosaur exhibit at the Coliseo. We all enjoyed it, but our 2.5 year old wasn't so sure about the roaring.

$4 for kids, $6 for adults.

Lasts approx an hour.

In Cuenca until 31 March 2024 @ Coliseo Jefferson Perez Quezada (12 de Abril y Unidad Nacional)

11/02/2024

// Uzhupud Garden - 45 Mins from Cuenca //

Q: What do you get when one of the world's largest orchid growers takes over a traditional hacienda?

A: This beautiful haven of tranquility, colors and growth.

If you appreciate orchids, gardens or haciendas in any way, we'd suggest a visit is well worth the 45 minute trip from Cuenca.

They are hosting an orchid exhibition 22nd Feb.

Location: https://rfr.bz/f9jbekx

03/02/2024

Wiffle Ball Saturdays at Primero del Mayo (Opposite Piggis)

My search for baseball in Cuenca came up empty. But, this casual wiffle ball meetup scratched the itch.

Our kids were total beginners and enjoyed it alot.

Come on down if you fancy. No cost, but donations for more gear welcome.

Saturdays 9:00am on Primero del Mayo, opposite Piggis & Fybeca.

25/01/2024

🏞️ Land Alert! 🏞️
Your chance to own a slice of paradise in Tutupali, 25 mins from Cuenca.
🏡 9,000 to 12,000 sqm for just $6/sqm.
🌳 Perfect for your dream home or investment.
🚀 Watch the video for a sneak peek!
📲 DM for details.

28/12/2023

Got a layover at Quito Airport? EB Hotel offers a business lounge and meeting rooms for hire. Only 8 minutes from the airport with a free shuttle every 30 mins.

$25 to use the business lounge includes a main meal (chef's choice), dessert, drinks bar and high speed internet. Perfect for being productive in a comfortable environment.

https://rfr.bz/f8ual2v

25/12/2023

Batalla de colibríes en la laguna secas cerca del parque ecológico Antisana.

10/12/2023

Christmas lights were turned on at Colegio Benigno Malo & Ave Solana last night.

It's starting to feel a lot like Christmas!

05/12/2023

So, you like art, supporting women and knowing what day it is?

Grab one of these 2024 calendars and support Mujeres con Exito: a non-profit that helps women take charge of their lives.

Wonderful art by idiomART resident artist, Maite Eusebio.

$15. Pickup from idiomART (C. Mariscal Lamar 14-25, Cuenca)

03/12/2023

This ones for the horse, farm or even nature lovers.

We visited Rancho San Juan. It's about a 25 minute drive from Cuenca towards Giron.

They've offered horse riding and accommodation for a while. But, they are now also open for lunches ($10 each). Lunch with a horse ride is $20.

We'll likely be back to try their glamping option.

More info: https://rfr.bz/f8qkhtm

26/11/2023

Megamaxi opened this weekend in Cuenca. Great addition to the city. Just don't forget to keep supporting your neighborhood shops too.

16/08/2023

Galapagos Sea Lions 😍 Diving into the wonders of San Cristobal, Galapagos! 🌊 Captured these playful and endangered Galapagos Sea Lions on camera during our incredible adventure. These endemic cuties are true symbols of this unique ecosystem. Let's cherish and protect these charismatic swimmers for generations to come.

23/07/2023

Olivetto Italian Restaurant

We've been enjoying this delightfully different Italian restaurant just off Remigio Crespo.

Today's treat was breakfast, but we've thoroughly enjoyed lunches and dinners there too.

It's a great option for a lazy afternoon chat too, our suggestion is to share some wine with a burrata - buffalo cheese with olives, pesto, cherry tomatoes & jamon. It's divine.

Location: Calle Rafael Ramírez 1-26 y Remigio Romero, Cuenca.

View YapaTree deal: https://rfr.bz/f6gnf6p

01/07/2023

// Crabby Burger //

We managed to sneak into Crabby Burger for lunch.

I tried the Hogaza for the first time and it left me feeling super satisfied.

Michelle had the standard crabby burger combo.

Don't forget your yapa - see their current deal at https://rfr.bz/f6df510

Located at Ave Francisco Moscoso 3-31 (near ECU 911 building).

03/06/2023

Cuenca Rental Tip - Paying Deposit in Advance

Rental specialist, Esteban, provides one of his tips for renting propery in Cuenca.

Be very cautious about paying deposits in advance!

25/05/2023

Cuenca Rental Tip - Unsafe Living Conditions

Rental specialist, Esteban, provides one of his tips for renting propery in Cuenca.

Be vary wary of any landlord that insists that you pay for a deposit and rent before they have maintenance issues address.

21/03/2023

// A Day Trip to Ingapirca: Discovering the Treasures of Ecuador’s Ancient Past //

Settled high in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador lies, Ingapirca, a spectacular destination that draws in history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. Ingapirca is an ancient site important to both the Inca and the Cañari before them. Here, you can peer into the rich history and culture of the Andean people. It is one of the most significant and well-preserved examples of Inca architecture and engineering in the region and is considered an important cultural and historical landmark in Ecuador.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the wonders of Ingapirca, from its breathtaking scenery and deep history to its unique cultural offerings.

Read: https://rfr.bz/f5m2czx
Subscribe: https://rfr.bz/f5m2d5s

Settled high in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador lies, Ingapirca , a spectacular destination that draws in history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers

20/02/2023

// New Service - Short Term Accommodation in Cuenca //

Around 30% of all rental inquires we've received have been from travelers & expats to be on their exploratory trips looking for short term accommodation.

And, honestly, we haven't really been able to help these people. Until now.

Introducing our short term rental service.

We're offering an alternative to AirBnb for Cuenca based landlords. They can list their properties on YapaTree and we manage them.

Our pilot program is currently underway with Casa Rosada, located in El Centro. These are very tastefully renovated suites and you can also find the brilliant Curu Restaurant in the same complex. They serve what I consider one of THE best almuerzos in Cuenca. It's ridiculous how they can continue to provide these for $3.50.

There is also the quality bakery Tosta in the complex. Try their range of sourdough breads and I'm confident you'll be back.

We're very excited to be partnering with Casa Rosada for this pilot.
There are 2 suites that are available soon:
- https://yapatree.com/short.../casa-rosada-1bdr-vista-bonita/
- https://yapatree.com/short.../casa-rosada-1bdr-mezzanine/

You can book online by paying a 5% deposit, and the remainder bank transfer (ECU or US) or cash upon arrival. Our minimum stay is currently 7 days.

Be sure to check our main short term rentals page over the coming months as we are onboarding more properties: https://yapatree.com/cuenca-short-term-rentals/

As always, your feedback is very much appreciated - especially over the next month as we soft launch🙏

Cuenca Short Term Rentals Search Check-in: Check-out: [string_chosen_admin_search_type] Number of accommodation: Adults: Children: Check-in Check-out Number of

10/01/2023

Quick Tip: Enrolling House Helper in IESS

We've recently hired a new helper for our house. To ensure we comply with Ecuador's labor laws, we need to register our helper in the IESS system so they receive the full legal entitlements.

Like most red-tape in Ecuador, the process can be a little frustrating (read: non-sensical) if you haven't gone through the process before.

For example, this one step took us around an hour to complete and it was only to receive a password so we can start the process.

09/01/2023

Grand Prix Cuenca 2023

The city welcomed back the race for the 1st time in 30 years.

It ended up being suspended due to wet weather and the organizers didn't want to risk more accidents. In hindsight, it's pretty clear they'll need to redesign their safety management plan if they want future events.

21/12/2022

Quito's Regular Expat Meetups - Tuesday 1:30pm @ El Patio (Cumbaya)

Visiting family in Quito, we decided to check out a regular expat meetup that happens every Tuesday at El Patio restaurant in Cumbaya.

We were interested in comparing this meetup with those in Cuenca. And, we left rather impressed at how welcoming and cohesive this group was. Maybe it's because 90% of those there today have an Ecuadorian partner and have been here for a while.

We'll be back next time we're passing through.

Thanks for having us and thanks to Journeyman Jack for organizing.

El Patio: https://rfr.bz/f40hy7y

17/12/2022

// Quick Tip - Keep Verdes in the Fridge //

Michelle and I love tigrillo and bolones. But, I have to admit that I kinda hate peeling them and the sap that gets all over your hands. It normally takes me 10 minutes to get the sticky sap from my hands.

But, storing our verdes (green plantains) in the fridge:
1. Keeps them green so you aren't cooking with sweet maduros; and
2. Makes them a lot easier to peel, leaving significantly less sticky sap on my hands.

Wish I knew this one earlier!

Credit for this tip goes to our new helper who has been an absolute god send.

Got a tip of your own to share? We'd love to hear it.

15/12/2022

// Real Estate Tip - Notary Signatures //

When signing a document at the notary such as Power of Attorney, Deed or Promisory Note, make sure it matches the signature in your passport.

If not, it won't be accepted by the notary and you'll need to repeat it until it matches. If you cant get it to match, then they may need to use fingerprinting.

13/12/2022

Cafe Ñucallacta has opened a 2nd location in Cuenca.

We checked it out during their opening weekend.

Same great food as the original, but in a much bigger setting. We're looking forward to seeing what they do with the massive garden area (playground por favor)!

Av. Loja 2320 between Juan Bautista Vasquez and Pichincha.

12/12/2022

Van Gogh Immervise Experience - Final Week

Tickets available on site $10 - $12. Free for 4 and under.

Our entire family enjoyed this experience at Parque de la Madre today.

Good mix of education & entertainment.

06/12/2022

Cuenca Freestyle, Trail and Mountain Bike Show

Last week was a cycling heaven with a bunch of performances by local and international riders.

Thanks to our resident biking guru Xavier Amoroso for supplying the videos!