2017 Ecuador * Cuenca Musings * January 25

"Cuenca, con justicia declarada Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad, 
es una de las ciudades ecuatorianas que conserva 
más vivo el patrimonio de su pasado antiguo." 

Cuenca – a varied, diverse, eclectic city in the Andes.  From the very first time I visited, at age 25, it has held a special spot in my heart.  When the sun smiles on the rivers and the mountains are crowned with dramatic clouds, it is beautiful.

Indigenous and Spanish heritage locals along with foreigners and expats create a wonderful international ambiance.  Most of the people are so friendly and helpful and community-oriented.  Yes, a few expats clump together, but many make good efforts to be involved in life around here..   

 

Birds sing, the rivers symphonize, soft breezes and cleansing quick rains add percussion to the symphony; humans add accents with voices, car beeps, and occasional celebratory fireworks.

Living costs are so reasonable .. do I really want to go elsewhere?  It is something I am re-examining at this time. Yes, Europe has great history, food, and my heart, but Cuenca has life and diversity, mountains, rivers, and sun that fill the soul.

 
                                               Facebook photo album:  2017 Ecuador #1