First Column

A number of you have asked me to post here the column (which I named "All Things Gringo")I wrote for the newspaper. As you'll see, because it's published in English and Spanish each piece will have to be pretty short.


WHY CUENCA??


Over the past few years you’ve seen more and more foreigners around the city and you may be wondering, “Why have all these gringos left their countries to come to Cuenca, Ecuador?” I will be writing a column each Friday to help us all get to know each other better.

My wife and I came here from Las Vegas six months ago. I’m happy to report that so far being in Cuenca has far exceeded our expectations. Every gringo (we call ourselves that too!) has a unique life story, but I think it is fair to say that most of us are here for a combination of these reasons: 1) wonderful weather, 2) low cost of living, and 3) proximity to the US.

This is information that can be obtained through research on the Internet. There is, however, a special hidden treasure in Cuenca that can only be discovered by living here on a daily basis---the kindness and generosity of this beautiful city’s citizens. It is difficult and stressful to relocate to a different country and culture where you know no one and perhaps don’t speak the language well. We are very grateful for the special blessing of feeling so welcomed in our new hometown.

And many of us want to do more than just reside here. In upcoming columns I will sometimes spotlight gringos who are doing important volunteer work or opening new businesses. Our city’s recent growth creates many opportunities, and by working together Cuencanos and gringos will guide Cuenca to an exciting future.