Founder · Visas · Money · Logistics
Jason Scott.
Jason Scott has lived in Cuenca since 2018. He co-founded Expats Ecuador, a cultural guide for newcomers, and runs YapaTree, a boutique real estate practice, with his wife Michelle. The writing here is for anyone navigating life, paperwork, or property in the Andes.
55
bylined pieces
2018
arrived in Ecuador
4
kids · all bilingual
EN
writes in
Selected pieces.
All articles Money
Ecuador's Exit Tax (ISD): What Expats Actually Pay to Move Money Out in 2026
Jul 2026 Read →
Visas Ecuador Pensioner Visa (Retirement Visa): Complete Guide for 2026
Jun 2026 Read →
Travel The 30-second test for finding a great meal in Cuenca
Jun 2026 Read →
Visa Ecuador Investment Visa: From Application to Approval
Aug 2024 Read →
Visa Ecuador Online Visa Applications Now Available
Jul 2024 Read →
Visa Ecuador's Digital Nomad Visa?
May 2024 Read →
From the mailbag
Three things people ask Jason every week.
- "Is Cuenca actually a good place to retire?", For the right person, yes, the climate, the walkability, and the cost-of-living math hold up. The wrong fit usually shows up in the first six months around language, weather, or pace.
- "How much should I budget per month?", $1,800-2,500 covers most expat households comfortably. Less if you're frugal, more if you're shipping things from the US or eating out daily.
- "Should I rent or buy first?", Always rent first. Most people change neighborhoods after their first 12 months. Buying before you've lived a year here is the fastest way to a regret.