Saturday, November 26, 2016

Cumbaya, ECUADOR 'Quito Muscle Car' Club Show OUT!!! SAT 26 NOV 2016

Published on Nov 26, 2016
My Sweety-Pie walked in the door about 5:45pm from a long hard day of X-mas Shopping and said there was a Classic Car show going on at our subdivision community building parking lot just 3 - 4 blocks away in the middle of our neighborhood.

Earlier in the afternoon I had heard some loud music & an occasional revved up motor and burn out from time to time, but just shrugged it off to weekend warrior neighborhood kids.

I grabbed my day pack with my trusty Canon SX160IS and out the door we went. Sun comes up 6:15 and sun goes down 6:15 here on the Equator, so I knew I would be able to grab a few shots at least.

I was so delighted and surprised to see the over a dozen well preserved & some restored, and some slick custom work on 1) 1950 Ford Pick Up.

Mostly 6) Fords, 2) '69 Mach1's, BOSS 302, '68 Fairlane 4dr.,
2) Chevys, a '72 Camaro, and a '62 Impala,
2) Pontiac 'TA' Firebirds, a '76 Bandit Edition,
2) MOPARs, RoadRunner & a '74 Charger,
1) 80's Porche Carrera,

We walked up to the Show at about 5:55 and the organizers had some orange cones set up with various members backing up at a high rate of speed peeling rubber weaving through the cones backwards & forwards, and there was some 'Pilsner Beer' & 'Jack Daniels' involved to complicate things.

..well about straight up 6pm one of the neighbors must have called the LAW, well you know the 'Fuzz mannn...

The local Police Show up in a little 4 door KIA 4 banger sedan, The Club reserved & rented the community club house, and they were technically on private property, but with beer & whiskey bottles all along the side walks, the Club Members kooled their heels for a moment, and just as soon as the Law pulled out of the subdivision they lit the Muther Up..!!!

Monday, November 7, 2016

The five best places to move if you don’t like the US election results- FRI 04 NOV16

 Amy Schumer said she'd move to Spain. Bryan Cranston said he'd move to Canada. Jon Stewart said he'd move to another planet. At last count, 23 celebrities have claimed they'll leave the country if they don't like the election results.

No matter who becomes the next U.S. President—Clinton or Trump—a contingent of disaffected voters is likely to look overseas for better options. According to a new report from the editors of International Living, they'll find many that offer excellent-value, warm-weather and proximity to home. 

These are places where not only is the cost of living lower and the weather better, but where it's a lot easier to tune out the political noise back home, too. 

Here are International Living's editors' picks for the top five places to escape to if politics is getting you down.

 

Ecuador

Sea turtles, Galapagos Islands
Paul Kennedy | Getty Images
Sea turtles, Galapagos Islands-
"Ecuador really does have everything...from the Galapagos Islands to the Amazon basin and the Andes Mountains, from big, modern cities to small, quaint villages. And up until now, one particular area of Ecuador has been overlooked—and that's its 937 miles of Pacific coastline and its beautiful mainland beaches. 

Ecuador draws a wide range of foreigners: entrepreneurs, travelers, humanitarian workers, foreign officials, diplomats, business people of all stripes, and retirees looking to stretch their budget and experience a different way of life. Many expats are attracted by the country's less-intrusive government and the tranquility of being removed from the terrorist and antiterrorist campaigns that make headlines in other parts of the world.

Generally speaking, the expats who have settled in Ecuador are those who tend to blend into society rather than live together in expat-oriented communities. Nonetheless, a bit of time in any town of significant size in Ecuador is all it takes to find the gringo haunts and watering holes....<read more> http://www.cnbc.com/2016/11/04/the-five-best-places-to-move-if-you-dont-like-the-us-election-results-commentary.html 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 THU 20 OCT16- 'The Heisenberg black hat in 'Breaking Bad' is made in Ecuador'
--"Anyone who has seen the TV series ' Breaking Bad ' can forget the moment the quiet Walter White becomes the "bad" Heisenberg. What few people know is that his inseparable black hat short brim born from a model made in Ecuador. In a factory yard hats toquilla Homero Ortega, in the city of Cuenca, hangs, among many other celebrities, a picture of Bryan Cranston, actor who plays a chemistry teacher .......


.....In recent times, and judging by the sales of countless pieces pattern of 'Breaking Bad' by the demand, as confirmed by Ortega, it appears that Heisenberg wins the game to other celebrities and even today, three years after the end of the series in the United States (2008-2013), continues to thrive."-- http://www.elcomercio.com/…/sombrero-breakingbad-pajatoquil…

Ninguna persona que haya visto la serie de televisión 'Breaking Bad' puede olvidar el momento en que el tranquilo Walter White deviene en el "malo" Heisenberg.…
elcomercio.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
<Comments from me Journeyman Jack in Ecuador> 
Before moving down to Ecuador sight unseen, let me help you plan out a Custom Fitted 2 - 3 - 4 week Exploratory / Introduction / Relocation Tour.  Relocating & moving to Live in Ecuador can be challenging and rewarding as well. Allow me to show you the ropes with a "boots on the ground" Introduction.

About me: 

I’m Journeyman Jack Abercrombie, your Private tour guide for VIP Ecuador Relocation.  Tours streamlined down to 1 on 1 single person, 1 or 2 couples, a family, and businesses thinking of moving to any area or part of the Republic of Ecuador. (I do not offer tours in a mixed group setting / there are 2-3 good companies that provide that in a 20 - 30 - 40 persons group setting)

 I live in Cumbaya / Quito. I’m a dual EC/ US citizen and have lived & worked full time in Ecuador for going on 9 years.  I will help you pre-plan & custom fit your Tour to your wants & needs beforehand so that your time in Eucador is optimized to the maximum potential. 

Offering popular destinations in Ecuador:
  N. Sierra - Eastern Suburb Valleys of Cumbaya, Tumbaco, and 2 hrs North of Quito- Otavalo - Cotacachi & Ibarra. 


Coastal: Canoa - Bahia - San Clemente - Crucita - Manta - Sant Marianita - San Lorenzo - Puerto Cayo - Puerto Lopez - Olon / Montanita - Ayampe - Bellinita - Salinas - Playas ~


S. & Central Sierra: Baños, Cuenca, Cajas, Loja, Malacatos and Vilcabamba,



 Also offering unpopular destinations Mountain & Coastal for farming and self sustaining communities.


{Comprehensive Introductory / Exploratory Tours Custom Fitted to your Relocation wants and needs with Pre-Trip Planning, Reservations, Expats & Locals Meet Ups, Rentals / Realty, Survival Spanish, Intro to EC Customs & Culture, Translator, Shopping,....

(the following would come later if you decide EC is for you)> Immigration, Residency Visas, Import / Export- Pets, Air Cargo,
 Vehicle & Home Inspections, Marriage Registration, Dual Citizenship, Dual Passports, Document Translations, Insurance,
 Healthcare, Law / Tax, Banking, Farm Land, Property & Site Management, Sea Container Shipping & Logistics, Security & Safety Measures, Finding Missing Persons In EC., Skype Video Or Toll Free Tel. Consultations} 


I have 75+ references with their contact info I can provide upon request.

~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors in Ecuador~
All of my Services, web & blog links, articles, photos,
 videos, references, info and contact
 tel. #'s - US & EC. are all below:

Thank You,
Jack Abercrombie,
Cumbaya, Quito- ECUADOR
journeymanjack.com@gmail.com
see Ecuador: http://JourneymanJack.com/

toll free from U.S. & Canada:
770-828-7913,
Ecuador Off: 02-380-4088,
Claro: 098-806-6508,
Movistar: 098-743-3009,
Whatsapp: 593-98-579-0109,
Talk free on "skype" user name: "Jack.Abercrombie"

(In Emergency) Iridium Satellite Phone from the
US & Canada: 011-8816-2146-2897,
from within EC: 00-8816-2146-2897,

Fb Travel Page: http://www.facebook.com/JourneymanJackinEcuador

Blog: http://journeymanjackinecuador.blogspot.com/

'JJiEC' You Tube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzl4rnxszGXGXEn-WY91hzg

Linked: https://ec.linkedin.com/in/jackabercrombie

twitter: https://twitter.com/JourneyJEcuador

Karatbars Int. Self Funding, Self Perpetuating, Off-Shore
Gold Savings Program: https://www.karatbars.com/landing/?s=journeymanjack

JourneymanJack 100% positive feedback (1205*) eBay member since 12 NOV 2003:
http://www.ebay.com/usr/journeymanjack

My photos in Google+ / Picasa web albums:
 http://picasaweb.google.com/journeymanjack.com

My google maps - saved places - frequented in EC:
https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=212187393968777541090.000479e892ce8f4227992&msa=0

Photos of the Transport - Tour Vehicle: 2011 Kia K2700 Diesel 1.5 Ton 4wd / 4dr / half passenger van /
half truck: https://goo.gl/photos/YNfWxUoU1toAMpz9A

Journeyman Jack in Ecuador Tours, Van Service & Gen. Transport:
 (ecuador craigslist > services offered > travel/vacation services)

"The dogs were too big to fly from Quito to Cuenca, so we arranged to have them driven down by the
famous Journeyman Jack who specializes in relocation."
http://www.cuencahighlife.com/an-expat-familys-move-to-cuenca-handling-the-details-and-settling-in/

"The best driving routes, and driving times in Ecuador"-
This week I had the pleasure to interview someone that knows the roads of Ecuador better than ANYONE I know.
Jack Abercrombie, an American expat from Atlanta who has lived in Ecuador for over 8 years now and has a heavy-duty
truck he uses to help expats move heavy loads of belongings within Ecuador.- See more at: http://ecuadorrealestate.org/driving-times-in-ecuador/#sthash.hO5THOOg.dpuf

"Jack Abercrombie, a well known tour guide-driver from Quito (the capital of Ecuador) was visiting the area for a few
days and called for a gathering of friends at Fabiano's (our favorite pizza spot). He anticipated maybe 20-25 people.
We ended the afternoon at over 40!- http://www.retiredincuenca.com/2014/05/cinco-de-mayo-mexican-holiday-in-ecuador.html

"Some people choose jobs, some jobs choose people. Take “Journeyman Jack” Abercrombie. He’s based in Cumbaya, Ecuador, and is an expert on life as an expat the way few are. He can help you give birth to your dream of moving to Ecuador,
facilitate the transition with ease- https://www.gringotree.com/do-you-have-an-exit-strategy/?goal=0_abb51ee8d2-78784da2fb-109772665

RELOCATION SERVICES TO ECUADOR - TOURS TO ECUADOR - JOURNEYMAN JACK:
http://latinamericacurrentevents.com/ecuador-relocation-and-tour-services-journeyman-jack-2/34635/

"Time is the school in which we learn, time is the fire in which we burn." - Delmore Schwartz-



Sunday, October 2, 2016

All About Loja, Ecuador: Note:  Before I tell you more about Loja below, h...

Wednesday, September 7, 2016-

Note:
 Before I tell you more about Loja below, here's a link to the book documenting my first three years in Ecuador -- the first was in Cuenca and the rest in Loja.  The book was originally to share what we endured to get our residency visas, but since that took more than three years, it ends up explaining much about how things are in Ecuador for a North
American building a new life here.  If you want to check it out, you can see the book on Amazon by clicking here



<click here to read entire post> All About Loja, Ecuador:
Note:  Before I tell you more about Loja below, h...
: Note:  Before I tell you more about Loja below, here's a link to the book documenting my first three years in Ecuador -- 

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Manabi Capitol Justice in a Traffic Accident Ecuador EarthQuake Relief

 Car accident in Ecuador- by domenick buonamici-

28
Jul 2016 newsletter:

"Oh, sh-t" I thought as I sat there looking at the motorcyclist on the ground.

I had tried to make a quick U-turn (where maybe I shouldn't have) and a motorcycle trying to zip around me on the right clipped my bumper and him and his bike went tumbling down.

He quickly got up and got in my face as I still sat in the drivers seat.

"Give me $1000 now for the damage on my bike!"  He shouted as his bike laid in the street.

"Hey, I got insurance buddy,"  I said in my muffled Spanish.

Then... "Wham"!

A big noise made me cinch my face muscles.  I looked over my shoulder and I couldn't believe my eyes!

While the motorcyclists bike laid there in the street and he was arguing with me to give him a quick buck, another car came and run over his motorcycle!

It was now completely wrangled around the under-organs of the car that just passed over it.

The bike now totaled.  Before, it was damaged but he probably could have just drove off.

Now, there were two angry Ecuadorians yelling at each other and me to one side.  You see, in Ecuador during a car accident I think the locals think that whoever can yell the loudest will be granted the right of way.

Within a few minutes the police showed up.

Immediately, the police said all the vehicles would be impounded until a traffic court could determine guilt, unless we could work something out.

Then he asked for our documents.

License and registration.

And to my surprise, but I suppose not uncommon in Ecuador, both the motorcyclist and the other car driver had no license nor proper registration.

So the policeman quickly looked to me, the calm, bewildered foreigner with the proper documents and said to me... "give the motorcycle guy $100, give that car driver $150 cash... and get out of here."

My truck just had a few scratches on it after-all.

 "Yes, officer," I said joyfully and away I went!

That's how a car accident more or less works in Ecuador.

The wild west?  Yea, with these kinds of things I'd say so.

STORY PROVIDED BY ...

Jack Abercrombie, a guy from Atlanta who has been living in Ecuador a few years now.  

He has a truck he uses to help new arrival expats in Ecuador move large loads of goods and pets within Ecuador.  You can reach him at journeymanjack.com@gmail.com or 770-828-7913(USA) or 098-743-3009(ECUADOR).  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/journeymanjack 








Hasta pronto,
Dom Buonamici
Quito Airport Suites
Puerto Cayo Real Estate


Monday, June 13, 2016

Conspiracy theories for expats: Putting the wanna in wannabe,

Conspiracy theories for expats: Putting the wanna in wannabe, an important tip, and the worst reason for a plan-B in Cuenca

I’m Asian, and I didn’t want to end up in a camp — they’ve done it before,” after a second glass of wine, a Cuenca expat is quietly telling me why she left California.
chl scott logo
I worked in the industry. We left Seattle as soon as we saw the video and understood what happened at Fukushima,” from my chat with a young couple holding their toddler in a Cuenca restaurant.
In America, the food supply is dangerous. There’s not much there I want to eat,” a comment heard at a Cuenca cooking class.
I lost my job and house in Florida, then I lived in a tent for three years. I’ll never go back to the states. Here, I can afford some dignity,” on a Cuenca bus, an American economic refugee tells me her story.
When we got here, he was in a wheelchair and barely responsive. Right away our Cuenca doctor took him off all the prescriptions. Now, he’s walking and improving daily,” an American expat describes her husband’s struggle with Parkinson’s disease...read more... https://www.cuencahighlife.com/conspiracy-theories-expats-putting-wanna-wannabe-important-tip-worst-reason-plan-b-cuenca/

Thursday, June 9, 2016

SAT 11 JUN16 Reunion & Benefit for Ecuador Coast EarthQuake Relief~

Tix Admission: Bring a Can of Beans, or a Sack of Rice, Claw Hammer, Hatchet, Axe, Shovel, Diapers, Shampoo, Toilet Paper, toiletries, clothes, rubber boots, shoes, etc. etc... I will see to it that the donated items make it to the coast and get put to good use.
 
Reunion & Benefit for Ecuador Coast Terremoto / EarthQuake Relief, Supply Raiser Event. for Manabi victims / victimas / damnificados relief y recovery, bring donations like canned & other non perishable food items, tools, tarps, plastic, toiletries, shampoo, soap, cookware, clothes, children's school supplies, diapers etc, etc- for family life in a camping refugee situation & circumstance. Ivan Andres Romero Bahamonde- ROMERO IS UP TO IT and approves of this Community Service Message, and So Do WE! Hope to see You All there:)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Further info contact me / JJiEc:

There is no 'i' in team but there is in win.~ Michael(www.Aire.ec)Jordan~
'achievement',‘prevail’,‘triumph’,‘first place’,‘gold medalist’&‘champion’

  ~All you need is Ecuador, and all Ecuador needs is YOU!~...
...(Is for) YOU To Not cancel out your vacation, travel nor relocation
plans for this Year due to our SAT 16 APR16 MAG. 7.8 EQ!!....

"Many hands make light work" -
Prov. 'If everyone helps with a large task, it will get done
easily and quickly. Cleaning up the banquet room won't take
 long if we all help; many hands make light ...'

Please donate if you can, and please share! Mil Gracias!
With former 30 yr svc & Exp. in EC Peace Corps: Roger Lurie,
Gerry & Ursula Strauss & Journeyman Jack Abercrombie In EC:
https://www.gofundme.com/1f3ajg


~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors into, around and out of Ecuador~

All of my Services, web & blog links, articles, photos,
 videos, references, info and contact
 tel. #'s - US & EC. are all below:

Jack Abercrombie,
Cumbaya, Quito & Manabi- ECUADOR
journeymanjack.com@gmail.com
see Ecuador: http://JourneymanJack.com/

toll free from U.S. & Canada:
Mntn's.: 770-828-7913,
Coastal: 770-776-6937,
Quito Off: 02-380-4088,
Manabi Off: 05-267-3052,
Claro: 098-806-6508,
Movistar: 098-743-3009,
Whatsapp: 593-97-872-3921,
Talk free on "skype" user name: "Jack.Abercrombie"

call Iridium Satellite Phone from the US & Canada:
011-8816-2146-2897, (In Emergency)
 call Iridium Satellite Phone from within EC:
00-8816-2146-2897, (In Emergency)
"I always keep a Mexican restaurant on speed dial in queso emergency."
@BiIIMurray-

Fb: http://www.facebook.com/JourneymanJackinEcuador

Blog: http://journeymanjackinecuador.blogspot.com/

You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzl4rnxszGXGXEn-WY91hzg

Linked: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jackabercrombie

twitter: https://twitter.com/CatManDoTractor

Karatbars Int. Self Funding, Self Perpetuating, Off-Shore
Gold Savings Program: https://www.karatbars.com/landing/?s=journeymanjack

JourneymanJack 100% positive feedback (1205*) eBay member since 12 NOV 2003: http://www.ebay.com/usr/journeymanjack

My photos in Google+ / Picasa web albums:
 http://picasaweb.google.com/journeymanjack.com

My google maps - saved places - frequented in EC:
https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=212187393968777541090.000479e892ce8f4227992&msa=0

Photos of the Transport - Tour Vehicle: 2011 Kia K2700 Diesel 1.5 Ton 4wd / 4dr / half passenger van / half truck: https://goo.gl/photos/YNfWxUoU1toAMpz9A

Journeyman Jack in Ecuador Tours, Van Service & Gen. Transport:
 (ecuador craigslist > services offered > travel/vacation services)

"The dogs were too big to fly from Quito to Cuenca, so we arranged to have them driven down by the famous Journeyman Jack who specializes in relocation."...
http://www.cuencahighlife.com/an-expat-familys-move-to-cuenca-handling-the-details-and-settling-in/

"The best driving routes, and driving times in Ecuador"-
This week I had the pleasure to interview someone that knows the roads of Ecuador better than ANYONE I know. Jack Abercrombie, an American expat from Atlanta who has lived in Ecuador for over 7 years now and has a heavy-duty
truck he uses to help expats move heavy loads of belongings within Ecuador.
- See more at: http://ecuadorrealestate.org/driving-times-in-ecuador/#sthash.hO5THOOg.dpuf

RELOCATION SERVICES TO ECUADOR - TOURS TO ECUADOR - JOURNEYMAN JACK:
http://latinamericacurrentevents.com/ecuador-relocation-and-tour-services-journeyman-jack-2/34635/
{Custom Fitted Pre-Trip Planning, Reservations, Immigration, Residency, Pets Import / Export / Air Cargo, Vehicle & Home Inspections, Marriage Registration, Dual Citizenship, Dual Passports, Document Translations / Translator, Survival Spanish Lessons, Insurance, Healthcare, Law / Tax, Banking, Farm Land, Property & Site Management, Rentals, Realty, Expat Meet Ups, Shopping, Sea Container Shipping & Logistics, Security & Safety Measures, Skype Video Or Tel. Consultations}

========================================================================================================


~Dante~
"The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who in time of great moral crises maintain their neutrality." -Dante

— at Bahia de Caraquez - Manabí, ECUADOR - S.A.~~ 

The little light house beacon 'El Faro' is still standing in Bahia de Caraquez:) Glad to know my non- demolished photos are liked and appreciated.

~Where there is hope, there is faith. Where there is faith, there is miracles happen.~

"Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit,

"A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed by action makes your dreams come true,"

'Don’t talk, just act. Don’t say, just show. Don’t promise, just prove',

-"Success in life comes when you simply refuse to give up, with goals so strong that obstacles,  failure, and loss only act as motivation..."
 
 
 

Saturday, May 7, 2016

A devastating 7.8 Magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador the evening of April 16, 2016

When on bended knee Please remember our Ecuadorian Masonic Brothers down in SA. as well as our NA Brothers living and practicing the craft abroad in Ecuador, ~JJIEC~

Cuenca Wayfarers Lodge #69
"--Earthquake Appeal:
A devastating 7.8 Magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador the evening of April 16, 2016. Hundreds are dead, many thousands are without homes. The need is acute. With the urging and approval of the Grand Master, CWL #69 has established a PayPal account to receive contributions for those desiring to help. All the money will go to assist our brother Masons and Ecuadorians in need of assistance. Three temples have been destroyed, businesses owned by brothers or which employ brothers have likewise been destroyed. Please pass this information along and post it on your social media accounts:
cuencawayfarers69@gmail.com
Here is a photograph of the remains of Renacer Alfarista Lodge #58 in Manta, Ecuador. The red drape in the background is the only item recovered from the lodge.
AlfaristaLodge58remains
Fraternally,
Ron Watkins WM
https://freemasonsincuenca.wordpress.com/
==================================================================
The Following Comments by ~JJiEC~

 ~All you need is Ecuador, and all Ecuador needs is YOU!~...
...(Is for) YOU To Not cancel out your vacation & travel plans for this Year due to our
SAT 16 APR16 MAG. 7.8 EQ!!....

"Many hands make light work" -
Prov. 'If everyone helps with a large task, it will get done
easily and quickly. Cleaning up the banquet room won't take
 long if we all help; many hands make light ...'

~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors into, around and out of Ecuador~

 The little light house beacon 'El Faro' is still standing in Bahia de Caraquez:) Glad to know my non- demolished photos are liked and appreciated.





~Where there is hope, there is faith. Where there is faith, there is miracles happen.~

"Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit,

"A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan.
A plan backed by action makes your dreams come true,"

'Don’t talk, just act. Don’t say, just show. Don’t promise, just prove',

-"Success in life comes when you simply refuse to give up, with goals so strong that obstacles,  failure, and loss only act as motivation..."
— at Bahia de Caraquez - Manabí, ECUADOR - S.A.~~

Sunday, April 17, 2016

7.8 M. EarthQuake ECUADOR S.A. 16 APR 2016





~All you need is Ecuador, and all Ecuador needs is YOU!~...
...(Is for) YOU To Not cancel out your vacation & travel plans for this Year due to our
SAT 16 APR16 MAG. 7.8 EQ!!....

 


 "Many hands make light work" -
Prov. 'If everyone helps with a large task, it will get done
easily and quickly. Cleaning up the banquet room won't take
 long if we all help; many hands make light ...'

~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors into, around and out of Ecuador~



All of my Services, web & blog links, articles, photos,
 videos, references, info and contact
 tel. #'s - US & EC. are all below:


Jack Abercrombie,
Quito- ECUADOR
journeymanjack.com@gmail.com
see Ecuador: http://JourneymanJack.com/

toll free from U.S. & Canada:
770-828-7913,
Ecuador Off: 02-380-4088,
Claro: 098-806-6508,
Movistar: 098-743-3009,
Whatsapp: 593-97-872-3921,
Talk free on "skype" user name: "Jack.Abercrombie"

call Iridium Satellite Phone from the US & Canada:
011-8816-2146-2897, (In Emergency)
 call Iridium Satellite Phone from within EC:
00-8816-2146-2897, (In Emergency)

Fb: http://www.facebook.com/JourneymanJackinEcuador

Blog: http://journeymanjackinecuador.blogspot.com/

You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzl4rnxszGXGXEn-WY91hzg

Linked: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jackabercrombie

twitter: https://twitter.com/CatManDoTractor

Karatbars Int. Self Funding, Self Perpetuating, Off-Shore
Gold Savings Program: https://www.karatbars.com/landing/?s=journeymanjack

JourneymanJack 100% positive feedback (1205*) eBay member since 12 NOV 2003:
http://www.ebay.com/usr/journeymanjack

My photos in Google+ / Picasa web albums:
 http://picasaweb.google.com/journeymanjack.com

My google maps - saved places - frequented in EC:
https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=212187393968777541090.000479e892ce8f4227992&msa=0

Photos of the Transport - Tour Vehicle: 2011 Kia K2700 Diesel 1.5 Ton 4wd / 4dr / half passenger van / half truck: https://goo.gl/photos/YNfWxUoU1toAMpz9A

Journeyman Jack in Ecuador Tours, Van Service & Gen. Transport:
 (ecuador craigslist > services offered > travel/vacation services)

"The dogs were too big to fly from Quito to Cuenca, so we arranged to have them driven down by the
famous Journeyman Jack who specializes in relocation."...
http://www.cuencahighlife.com/an-expat-familys-move-to-cuenca-handling-the-details-and-settling-in/

"The best driving routes, and driving times in Ecuador"-
This week I had the pleasure to interview someone that knows the roads of Ecuador better than ANYONE I know.
Jack Abercrombie, an American expat from Atlanta who has lived in Ecuador for over 7 years now and has a heavy-duty truck he uses to help expats move heavy loads of belongings within Ecuador.
- See more at: http://ecuadorrealestate.org/driving-times-in-ecuador/#sthash.hO5THOOg.dpuf

RELOCATION SERVICES TO ECUADOR - TOURS TO ECUADOR - JOURNEYMAN JACK:
http://latinamericacurrentevents.com/ecuador-relocation-and-tour-services-journeyman-jack-2/34635/
{Custom Fitted Pre-Trip Planning, Reservations, Immigration, Residency, Pets Import / Export / Air Cargo,
Vehicle & Home Inspections, Marriage Registration, Dual Citizenship, Dual Passports, Document Translations / Translator, 


Survival Spanish Lessons, Insurance, Healthcare, Law / Tax, Banking,

 Farm Land, Property & Site Management, Rentals, Realty, Expat Meet Ups, Shopping, 


Sea Container Shipping & Logistics, Security & Safety Measures, Skype Video Or Tel. Consultations}

Sunday, March 27, 2016

Olon Again...Naturally: Cribbage in the Wind - Part 2 Sun. March 27, 2016

Olon Again...Naturally: Cribbage in the Wind - Part 2: March 27, 2016 This week is “Semana Santa” and we’re entering into the end-zone of season finale during “high time” along the Ecuado...

....And then, I guess last but not least…the cat is
out of the bag.



I sold my lot in Olón a few weeks ago, and am
making plans to return to the States.

This is not a last minute decision, but one I have
been gearing up to do for some time.

I am so grateful for the time I have had on this
adventure here, but after six years, I am ready to come home.

I miss my family – probably the biggest factor
that lures expats back.



It was not an easy decision, but the right one for
me.  And I never thought that Ecuador
would be my final “landing spot” anyway. 
I figured 5-7 years here, and I’ve lived in Olón six (out of eight years).



But as the time moves closer to my departure,
coming to terms with leaving this place I love so much, and saying “good-bye”
to the wonderful friends I have made (locals and expats)…I find myself
alternately excited and melancholy.

And scared. I don’t kid myself that the transition
back to the States is going to be difficult, and probably more of a “culture
shock” than the adjustments made when I moved here.



One of the first posts I ever wrote on this blog
was called “Cribbage in the Wind” about the preparation of moving to
Ecuador.  It was tough!

But I'm finding it tougher to leave here than I expected.




I will still be writing posts here as I make this
transition.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Finding airlines to Ecuador that are "large dog friendly." 03 FEB 2016


Ms. Carmen weighs a good 55-60#'s she flew in the Cabin w/ Mom & Dad as a "Certified Emotional Support / Service Animal" the 1st of FEB 2016 from W. Coast via American Airlines, connected into MIA to UIO.



Late night arrival 10:38pm we lodged at Pet Friendly Quito Airport Suites- http://airporthotelquito.com/




  and the next morning 10 hrs ride to Cuenca down the AV of Volcanos. checked into Pet Friendly Otorongo (long stay) Hotel Apts.: http://www.hotelotorongo.com/#!



GYE is under 4 hrs if you can make that happen for your flight plans. Jorge Lopez can provide Pet Friendly Lodging:

www.gyebnb.com 

 
 
 & do the Ground Transport from GYE to Cuenca or Coast.:
www.ecvantransportation.com



-Delta will no longer allow pets to travel with checked luggage-
Published: Nov 17, 2015- You won’t be able to check your dog with your suitcase on Delta flights.

Delta Air Lines stated on its website that it will no longer allow customers to check their pets with their baggage after March 1, 2016,- http://www.marketwatch.com/story/delta-will-no-longer-allow-pets-to-travel-with-checked-luggage-2015-11-17?dist=tbeforebell


For several years I Transport Expats, Pets & Baggage into & out of the Cuenca area to & from Quito (UIO) Airport area a few times a month. See Photos Transport - Tour Vehicle: 2011 Kia K2700 Diesel 1.5 Ton 4wd / 4dr / half van / half truck: https://goo.gl/photos/YNfWxUoU1toAMpz9A

If your "Large dog" will not fit into a Series #500 (XLarge) Air Kennel: 39″L x 26″W x 30″H OUTSIDE Dimensions (Advertised size) INSIDE Dimensions (usable capacity) 35″L x 24″W x 29″H
Recommended for: Afghans, Labrador Retrievers, Pointers, Shepherds, Rottweilers, Samoyed, Siberian Huskies; http://www.dryfur.com/shipping_container_guide.htm

...the next air kennel size up is the Series #700 (Giant) for Bull Mastiffs & other Large Breeds, this size Dog is too big to go as check baggage with most of the major airlines. It will need to go as "Air Cargo", Lord Guau w/ offices in Quito, Cuenca & Guayaquil can manage that: http://www.lordguau.com/

The terminology of flying the dog as "check baggage in air kennel below method" & "Air Cargo" are 2 very different scenarios.

If you are able to go "Certified Emotional Support / Service Animal" or w/ check baggage below method, and were to arrive into Quito / UIO. I will be glad to help get You, "Large dog" & Gear on down to Cuenca.


~Thank You once for considering my Guide to EC Services~
      ~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors in Ecuador~
Jack Abercrombie,
Cumbaya, Quito- ECUADOR
http://JourneymanJack.com/
journeymanjack.com@gmail.com

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Do many Expats pursue dual citizneship in Ecuador- 02 MAR 2016


I know of 25 - 30 North Aamerican Expats that have completed the Naturalization process & gained EC Citizenship over the years.

It is totally fine with the US State Dept. to have dual citizenship, you lose no rights & privileges with the US Embassy & Citizen Services.: 



--"Dual Nationality and Loss of Citizenship-
Dual Nationality- What it is:
"The Supreme Court of the United States has stated that dual nationality is “a status long recognized in the law” and that “a person may have and be subject to the responsibilities of both.  The mere fact that he asserts the rights of one citizenship does not mean that he renounces the other”, Kawakita v. U. S., 343 U.S. 717 (1952).<read more> http://ecuador.usembassy.gov/service/living-in-ecuador/dual-nationality-and-loss-of-citizenship.html



 I just felt like if I were going to try to assimilate and be all the Ecuadorian I could be, it was the best thing for me to do.
It is a personal decision, and may not be for everyone.

I was sworn in 21 APR 2014, and shortly after had my Andean Community ECUADOR Passport.


 

 My US Passport Expired SEP 2015, So I went down to the US Embassy in Quito, The Capitol Of EC and renewed it in about 10 days time in AUG 2015:


 

 

....and did not have to deal with getting my EC Resident Visa re-approved and transferred / placed into the new US Passport.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is an article from Dom Buonamici's Newsletter from 30 JUN 2015-


--"Ecuador dual citizenship myths debunked- How to get around the 90 day rule"--

"There's really only one simple requirement that qualifies you for an Ecuadorian second passport (aka Ecuador dual citizenship)... you need 3 years of permanent residency after getting any of the resident visas and obtaining your "cedula" ID card.

In fact, I was told by my source in immigration you can actually apply after about 2 and a half years.

That's it!  By far the easiest South American passport to obtain!

But there is a lot of mis-information out there on this subject, mainly us gringos regurgitating random stuff we read on online forums. 

1. Will getting dual Ecuadorian citizenship cause me to lose my original citizenship and passport?  No!  Not if you are from a country that allows and recognizes dual citizens like the USA, Canada, Ecuador and Great Britain to name a few. 

2. Will getting Ecuador dual citizenship create an EXTRA tax burden for me?  No. Ecuador like most countries not named THE US...tax only income made in Ecuador, doesn't even matter what nationality the person that makes it is, if you are given an official Ecuadorian purchase receipt (factura) you have to pay tax to Ecuador on it.  If not, no.  Ecuador does not tax foreign made income.

3. Isn't Ecuador one of those mandatory military service states?  Actually yes, it is, but T.I.E. my friend (this is Ecuador)... to get out of it all an Ecuadorian male has to do is pay a tiny fine (last I heard it was well under $200).  And truth be told, they would only be interested in you and possibly enforce it if you were 18-21 anyway.  In fact, its not at all like the US, or like you think, there is actually a surplus of demand from locals to join the forces, and many who want to join are left out!  Really!  There just aren't that many spots. 

Now the biggest, baddest two myths that prevent most us gringos from even trying...

4. Isn't there a new law that states you must be out of the country for a maximum of 90 days TOTAL for the three years prior to applying for residency?  Actually, this is CORRECT, BUT T.I.E. my friend (this is Ecuador), I know you probably think like a gringo and everything is black or white, right or wrong, I get it, I do too.  But this is Ecuador, the land where who you know and what you know often prevails.  For instance, to get around this one in a totally legit, legal way you can right a letter and submit with your application explaining the extenuating circumstances that caused you to be out of country more than the time allotment.  For example, a death, a health issue, etc... of course substantiated by apostilled proof from a doctor or whatnot helps.  Its not a given they would pass it, but its possible, one ecuadorian immigration official working in the Quito citizenship office informed me THIS MONTH, June 2015 in Quito.  I would personally apply in Quito too, not Cuenca, they just seem nicer.   

5. Isn't there a nasty verbal exam of my Spanish level?  No!  The exam is actually WRITTEN, which makes it MUCH easier, yes, it is in Spanish, but with some test prep like the guide I'm offering today you should be fine.  You will have to sing the Ecuadorian hym, but that is when you have ALREADY been accepted and you won't be by yourself,.  But with everyone else sworn in that day so I'm sure you could find a way to 'fake it til you make it' like you did back in high school choir class.  As for the written exam, the official told me you really have to B#MB it to fail it and yes, they'd let you take it again.  They just want to see some effort.  He also said the older you are the less they expect you to speak decent Spanish.  So NO, there is no verbal exam but yes, some basic Spanish chit-chat would be nice to know going in, you know, stuff you can learn in a few weeks of Spanish lessons. 

To share this post on Facebook copy and paste the link... http://ecuadorrealestate.org/ecuador-dual-citizenship-how-to-get-around-the-90-day-rule/

And due to popular demand, I've decided to extend FOR ONE MORE DAY UNTIL MIDNIGHT TONIGHT my almost half-priced PRE-RELEASE SPECIAL UNTIL MIDNIGHT TONIGHT JUN 30 of my newest Ecuador Insiders Guide... The 2015 Ecuador Citizenship&Second Passport Test lil' Cheat Sheet 

Did you know after 3 years of residency in Ecuador you can apply for an Ecuador passport and dual citizenship?

But like in most countries, you will have to pass a simple test based off Ecuador's history, culture and geography... 

But don't worry it's now made easier than ever! 

Everything dumbed-down and simplified!  Just what you need to know.

Learn from the direct notes of one person that has actually passed the test and from another who is a true expert on the subject who has helped foreigners pass the exam for over 20 years! 

Also, one section of the guide is about EXACTLY what to expect during the exam, no more surprises! 

Study up, pass the test, get second passport.  Just like when you were back in college.  

This is an instantly downloadable ebook that you will be emailed when released later today on JUNE 30.  

Normal price when released $39.95... order now before release date for just $24.95!  CLICK HERE TO ORDER NOW AT THE SPECIAL PRE-ORDER PRICE.: https://gumroad.com/l/uoQC#

Imagine the "let down and disappointment" this could save from living in Ecuador three years in part to get the second passport and then not pass the test!
 by Dom Buonamici, dombuon@gmail.com, Quito Airport Suites- A hotel just minutes from the new Quito UIO airport, your ideal jump-off point in Ecuador.: http://airporthotelquito.com/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This info is going on 9 months old, I know of no significant changes currently at time of this blog post.

....of course interpretation of the visa requirements & the naturalization process is apt to change from time to time, as the administrators of the various ministries tend to play musical chairs each year. ....and of course we have a Presidential election coming up on 19 FEB 2017, that I will be voting in~

I was 45 yrs old when I arrived in 2008, and am now 53, I haven't married here, but have a long time Ecuadorian Sweety Pie. I did not want to pursue Naturalization through the Matrimonio avenue.


 

...as my 91 yr old GrandMother Margarita Smith Abercrombie Raptis (05 MAR 1920) says: "To each his (or her) own"

  I just went with the wait my time & patience route, ....of course everyone's circumstances are a little different.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is an update with more from Dom Buonamici-
Ecuador Dual Citizenship guidelines & Gov Fees for 2015:


--"I was helping him out, and here is the exact process you need to follow to get your second Ecuadorian passport.

1. After at least 2 and a half years of residency (technically they say 3 years but my contact who works in the Quito office told me you can really apply after 2 and a half years from the day you get your Ecuador cedula or ID card) you can apply for the dual citizenship which gets you an Ecuadorian Passport. You can not be out of the country during those first 2 and a half years a total of more than 90 days, but you can apply for citizenship anyway even if you pass this limit but you'll have to submit a letter stating why you passed the limit and hope they still sign off on it.

2. Gather the requirements.
- Birth certificate, apostilled and translated to Spanish.
- Passport color copy of the passport where you have the residency visa stamp. Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity.
-Color copy of Ecuadorian Cedula(ID card).
- Get document from civil registry (registro civil) that states first date of cedula (tarjeta indice de filiacion que dice la primera fecha de cedulacion)
- Certificate of compliance (Certificado de cumplimiento de obligaciones) from the SRI (IRS of Ecuador) stating you are up-to-date on any taxes.
- Certificate of compliance (Certificado de cumplimiento de obligaciones) from your local Municipality stating you are up-to-date on any taxes.
- Certificate of compliance (Certificado de cumplimiento de obligaciones) from the IESS social security system of Ecuador stating you are up-to-date on any payments.
- Police record from all the countries (including Ecuador) where you've lived the last 5 years. They are currently accepting only federal level checks from countries with a federal government, for Americans, that means an FBI check, apostilled.
- Migratory movement card, obtained in Ecuadorfrom immigration for $4. (Movimiento Migratorio)
- 4 color passport sized photos.
- Proof of Ecuador solvency: Like a bank certificate, bank statements last three months, for business owners the monthly sales tax declarations, copies of the title (escritura) of any property or businesses you own in Ecuador or a copy of your rental contract properly inscribed in the rental agency (Juzgado de Inquilinato).

3. In person, they require you submit your documentation in Quito in the Immigration office (Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores) on 10 de agosto. You can also submit in Guayaquil.

4. You'll be called in within a few months to take a written exam in Spanish on basic Ecuadorian history. it is not pass/fail, it is just to put in your file, and they would like to see some effort. It is not verbal in anyway but they reserve the right to do some verbal questions if they wish (but they usually don't according to my contact).

5. Upon acceptance of application you must publish an ad in local paper announcing your new citizenship.

6. You will then be called in with all the others that day accepted into Ecuadorian citizenship to sing the national hymn (together, not solo) and confirm your new citizenship. You will need to bring three Ecuadorian witnesses. You can then go get your Ecuadorian passport.

Duration: about 6 months.

Cost: $200 application fee, $500 acceptance fee, approx $403 publication fee, $285 Civil Registry fee. All fees are one-time-only, but Ecuador citizenship is for life unless you renounce it. These costs are the cheapest you can do it for without using an attorney.

Total: Appox $1300.

And to prep for the test, simplifying it and giving you just what you need-to-know, which has remained in the same format for many years now and probably won't change anytime soon, try my new guide to the Ecuador Citizenship test. It is an immediate download and won't be widely available on the Internet for now after this email.

Hasta pronto, and please remember for general Ecuador questions I can only answer if you ask via the Q&A forum,

By Dom Buonamici
Quito Airport Suites- A hotel just minutes from the new Quito UIO airport, your ideal jump-off point in Ecuador.: http://airporthotelquito.com/


 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
~All the Very Best on Your Endeavors in Ecuador~
          http://JourneymanJack.com/


If you need any help aid or assistance in investigating or relocating to EC. Please do keep me in mind:)
 Thank you!
Jack Abercrombie,

Quito- ECUADOR
journeymanjack.com@gmail.com
toll free from U.S. & Canada:
770-828-7913,
Ecuador Off: 02-380-4088,
Claro: 098-806-6508,
Movistar: 098-743-3009,
Whatsapp: 593-98-579-0109,
Talk free on "skype" user name:

 "Jack.Abercrombie"

 

Monday, February 29, 2016

Best Blog Cuenca Ecuador 2016 by "Ecuador George" 29 FEB 2016

 Best Blog Cuenca Ecuador 2016



--"So, I have taken a very unscientific poll and below are some of the reasons people gave as to why they go back… Enjoy.

The language barrier is to difficult to overcome
Wandering spirit
Never intended to stay forever
Unable to adapt.
Lack of convenience
Failed marriage
I miss Costco
Unable to change the culture to suit them
Can’t flush the toilet paper
Locals lie about everything
Can’t adjust to the local culture
Poor expectation management
Health problems/altitude sickness
Miss closeness of family members
Fear of the local culture
Miss my golf buddies and playing
Good booze is too expensive
Miss family holidays
Originally misled by national retirement publications
Spouse threatened divorce
Cost to much to visit family in country of origin
Birth of a grandchild
Employment opportunity
The non achiever culture bothered me every day
To much gossip
Retail shopping is not good here
Everything moves so slow I became uncomfortable....read more:


 http://www.ecuadorgeorge.com/best-blog-cuenca-ecuador-2016/#.VtUPIPDXLv8.facebook



 Congrats to "Ecuador George" on being Gringo Post's 2016 Top Gun Blogger for Cuenca!!

The Bowen Knot ⌘: OMGosh...Were We Given Cocaine in Cuenca, Ecuador?...

The Bowen Knot ⌘: OMGosh...Were We Given Cocaine in Cuenca, Ecuador?...: Mate
de Coca (pronounced: mah-tay day coh-cah, translated: Coca Tea) is a
very regular part of life in the Andes. For thousands of years the
indigenous peoples of the region have chewed the leaves, which
continue to play physical, economic, social, and spiritual roles in
the local communities as they have since ancient times.




 Today the
plant is still noted for its use in both daily life and in cultural
celebrations as well as its capabilities to diminish sensations of
hunger, increase feelings of energy during long days of work, and act
as an anesthetic. We were introduced to coca in the form of a
beverage as a combatant of altitude sickness (seriously,
a
lot
of
people offered or recommended coca tea), another of its famed and
historical claims. Many sources point out that... http://thebowenknot.blogspot.com/2016/02/omgoshwere-we-given-cocaine-in-cuenca.html

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Overseas Exile: US expat evacuations: not what people think

Overseas Exile: US expat evacuations: not what people think: We've turned your country into a parking lot. The least we can do is evacuate you . Over on Reddit, I asked people's opinions ab...
If they need to evacuate US citizens abroad, they will charge the full commercial rate. That's a US government document, but let me focus on some key bits:



Who will pay to evacuate me and my family? 


If commercial carriers are operating, the Embassy will recommend that
you depart on your own and at your own expense. If you don’t have money
to pay the fare, the Embassy can help you contact family and friends and
assist in transferring money from them. In extreme circumstances, a
destitute American wishing to return to the U.S. may qualify for a
repatriation loan. The conditions for making such loans are stringent,
and your passport will be limited until you repay the loan.....<read more> http://www.overseas-exile.com/2013/03/us-expat-evacuations-not-what-people.html

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Howard's Blog: Giron, Ecuador 04 JAN 2016

Howard's Blog: Giron, Ecuador: Our last adventure of 2015 was a day trip to the waterfalls of Giron with our friends Juan Carlos and Daniel. It was a beautiful day to see ...



< Giron, just outside of Cuenca is Absolutely Gorgeous! Thanks for sharing Howard!!>