In early Spring of 2020, we returned to the US from almost three months in Southeast Asia. Our plan was to spend about six weeks seeing our families and friends, then fly down to Ecuador. The idea was to have fun in Cuenca and also to see if we were ready to make a base residence in the near future. There was this new virus called Covid that was starting to cause issues in the world, but we thought it would be all taken care of before our flight to Ecuador in late April. Oy! As we all know, Covid had a huge impact on the world and our lives.
We finally return to Cuenca on January 27th, 2023. On our first evening in the city, we meet up with friends David and JJ to attend concert by the Cuenca Symphony. They start the program with the 1812 Overture, play some additional pieces then bring on two talented singers. It is very enjoyable and amazingly, the Symphony concerts are still completely free.
Saturday, we have opportunity to dine in the home of friends Burt and Evelyn, who we met on our first visit (and their first visit) to Cuenca in 2012. They made Cuenca their full-time home in 2013 and we have stayed in touch over the years. The domes of the New Cathedral are always inspiring, and Burt and Evelyn have a great view from their living room. This is followed on Sunday morning with brunch at a local restaurant with Burt, Evelyn, David and JJ.
Tuesday afternoon we join a group of ex-pats that play cribbage every week. Some are permanent residents while others are visiting as part of their search for a second home country on a full-time or part-time basis. Interestingly, almost all of the attendees are originally from Canada. Some have lived in Cuenca for over 10 years. In addition to fun games (William won all of his), we hear stories and learn more about life in Cuenca.
Thursday, we attend another concert of the Symphony. It’s a little different as some of the pieces include performances by three pianists. There’s a special tribute to Luis Verdugo Rojas. We gather from the tributary speech that he was one of the founders of the Cuenca Symphony and very significant in the Ecuadorian music scene over many years. Again, a very enjoyable evening.
To round out our first week in Cuenca, on Friday evening there’s a native dance group performing in the Flower Market square. Lots of family-oriented fun.
To round out our first week in Cuenca, on Friday evening there’s a native dance group performing in the Flower Market square. Lots of family-oriented fun.
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