Becoming Cuenca

About the Site

This is a blog focused on moving to and living in Cuenca, Ecuador. It is geared towards people born 1946 to 1964. They are the generational group that has had a significant impact on society, be it the economy or social norms. The Boomers are a unique and pioneering generation, breaking ground and opening new doors. Now, this generation is doing something that previous ones have never done en masse: Live out their lives outside the U.S. and Canada.

About Stephen Vargha

Cuenca has been in my heart since I visited it in 2011. I was only 53 years old, but something told me I would be returning.

This journalist enjoys contributing to his community. It is why I am the Asistente de Información Pública for Orquesta Sinfónica de Cuenca. It is an unpaid position for this excellent symphony. Read more

Una Nueva Vida – A New Life

You may have seen it (Cuenca).

You may have thought about it (Cuenca).

There are over 80 professional-quality photos shot by me to give you a clear ‘picture’ about life in this historic mountain city.

And I guarantee you my book will give you food for thought concerning things you had not thought about. Read more

Stephen’s Blog

Cuenca: Smart and Sustainable

Cuenca: Smart and Sustainable

“A methodology and overall score gratifying to this city planner's heart!” ~Gil Castle My very good friend in Cuenca, Gil Castle, has to be...

read more
World Class City

World Class City

For over a decade, Cuenca has had a worldwide image that is very positive. Various agencies try to capitalize on it, including Fundación Municipal...

read more
Retire at 62 and Move to Cuenca?

Retire at 62 and Move to Cuenca?

“Should I take Social Security at 62 or wait?” ~Newspaper Headline What is a headline like this doing in a blog about Cuenca? Because it affects...

read more
Be Brave. Explore. Enjoy.

Be Brave. Explore. Enjoy.

“Never be a prisoner of your past. Become the architect of your future. You will never be the same.” ~Robin Sharma, The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari: A...

read more
Cuenca Christmas

Cuenca Christmas

"I love Christmas, not just because of the presents but because of all the decorations and lights and the warmth of the season." ~Ashley Tisdale...

read more
Cuenca’s Communities

Cuenca’s Communities

“Enthusiasm for my neighborhood makes up about 80 percent of my personality.” ~Adrienne So I came across an article written by Adrienne So, a senior...

read more