Try as I did to tour schools, for our daughter who will be entering 9th grade, response was a concern. While schools were out for a new two week holiday imposed by the government, administration was at work.
After numerous requests to web sites, I managed to schedule only one school visit. I have included that school first. Others I was interested in are simply listed for imformation and were not visited.
Cotopaxi American International School
De las Higuerillas Y Alondras(Monteserrin)
Casilla 17-11-6510
Quito Ecuador
Tel (593-2) 246.7411
Fax (593-2) 244.5195
www.cotopaxi.k12.ec
We had to schedule our appointment through facebook, as the school as all the others as well did not respond to email or requests through the normal channels or those available on the web sites. We had a pleasant morning visiting this school. As an American school, we feel that this may be the best solution for our school needs. Pre-School through 12th grade in the American style, this school provided instruction to Ecuadorian and Expat children. With a international group of approximately 500 students, the school provides Ecuadorian educational certificate as well as American.
We had a very nice conversation with translator regarding the school and its system and requirements by the woman in Admissions and Outreach. Tuition starts at $7119 per year for pre-school and goes to
$15,757 for 10th -12th grade.
Other fees include $300 application fee, a Capital Assessment Fee(unknown) and kinder to 3rd grade $43 per month lunch cost. They do offer a 2% discount for advance payment of at least 50% of the annual cost. They do offer transportation under security from the City area $810 per year and the Valley area $925 per year.
They facilities are nicely arranged in a secured facility. They are clean and well maintained. The classrooms are nicely appointed and have internet capability throughout the campus as well as smart boards and more. This school appeared to be a nice option.
Other Schools of interest:
British School Quito
Via Cununyaco,KM 2.5 Tumbaco
Tel (593 2) 2374 649-650-651
P.O. Box 17-21-52
Quito, Ecuador
admissions@britishschoolquito.edu.ec
www.britishschoolquito.edu.ec
Application material available on line, tuition information is not.
Pre-K to 12th grade.
Alliance Academy International
Casilla 17-11-06186
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: 011(593-2)226-7510
www.alliance.k12.ec
Christian school with US based curriculum. Bible classes taught.Pre School -12th grade. Again application materials are available on line, tuition is not.
Schools in Cuenca
I was unfortunately not able to hold my appointment to see the one school who did respond in Cuenca. It is my understanding that there are a few private American standards schools but it will wait until my next visit.
CEDEI School
Gran Colombia 11-02 Y General Torres Esq
Cuenca, Ecuador
Tel 2839003/2823452
www.dedei.org
I was unable to find admissions information on the website. I was able to contact them through the website however.
This school is apparently a school and a language school as well. Apparently they will be adding a Decima(9th grade by US standard) for the 2013-2014 year, and a further grade until 12th grade each year after. The website lists several other Cuenca locations, and it was not easy to navigate as to what was school, language school and exchange programs.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
A Beautiful night at Octava de Corpus, Quito Ecuador
We were all shook up after a 7.0 earthquake in Southern Columbia rocked
us during our day in Quito, Ecuador. I almost mistook the rocking for a
hangover from our Calle La Ronda experience the night before, where Cuy and
large bottles of Club Cerveza were the order of the evening, or perhaps it was
residual from our night in raucous Plaza Foche area where consuming 3 liters of
beer was our calling; before washing back to our hotel. No, it was just a
gentle rocking that called us out after our long day of conference with
International Living. We needed to get back
to the Quito historic area, but this time for a far different treat, a culinary
and cultural experience that will not be forgotten. Many of the homes in this
area have stood up to the test of time, and many earthquakes. Tonight’s visit
took us to just one of these homes and a visit with our genial host, Jaime
Burgos.
Jaime has created a wonder in old town, Octava de Corpus, a gastronomic
boutique house. This historic home at the historic center of Quito is the love
and passion of Jaime, who we found holding down the front stoop on this quiet
night at the beginning of Carnival. We were afraid that we should have called
ahead, but while the rest of the well to do Ecuadorians had decamped to party
elsewhere, we were treated to a run of the house hosted by our consummate host.
While Facebook, Twitter, Trip advisor and Lonely Planet and many many others
sing internet praises, all of that was checked at the door, as we emerged into
a world unto itself. The Octava is #27 of 322 restaurants rated in Quito and
#82 of 404 Lonely Planet things to do in Quito just to add to its Wine
Spectator awards.
Our ultimate host reminded of days my days with Patrick Terrail at Ma
Maison, as our new found friend and guide moved us first to his wine cellar and
then upward into the variety of well-appointed dining rooms. While we could
have settled anywhere, we found ourselves admiring the art and character of
each of the rooms. From floor to ceiling the passion and love of history, wine,
art and quite frankly perfection were not lost on my son McKenzie or me.
Finally at the urging of our host we settled next to a window with a nice
rooftop view of the area, feeling secure and at home next to the three foot
thick wall in the corner. Jaime explained that on most evenings he would be bustling
with as many as eight on the wait staff and perhaps an equal number in the
kitchen, but tonight we were his only concern. Our host is Transformer…owner,
host, sommelier, bartender, and wait staff and much more.
Swapping stories, we selected a bottle of Vina Chaupi Estancia, Alyce,
Meritage 2007. Apparently Ecuador is not just Panama Hats and Roses, but the
home to a bud of collection of fine small vineyards. While McKenzie had his
eyes focused on a bottle of Vega-Sicilia Cosecha 2002 “Unico”, Ribera de Duero,
I was set on a wine from Ecuador. This was an excellent bottle at $42.00.
McKenzie was none affected by our 9500 foot elevation or our previous night’s
activity, so he also enjoyed a very nice Ukrainian wheat vodka with only a few
cubes of distraction, while settling on our selections for the evening with Jaime’s
guidance.
McKenzie selected a warn shrimp appetizer suspended over crushed ice,
and then a Ceviche salad, and I enjoyed a special salad of the house. Our
entrees, “Surf and Turf”, a fine Lomo with two prawns as big as your hand and
for dear old dad a Lomo “Jack Daniels”. Note huge dessert people, only I choose
to finish our dinner with dessert. I was well rewarded by the candied figs and
cheese. As our talk moved north and south, our host was bustling and ever
informative. After one more after dinner tour of the cellar, Jaime insisted on
showing us several home exteriors on the immediate street that “may be for
sale” and would be suitable for a B and B or Inn. With a promise to be in touch
with his real estate finds, we were tucked into our off market taxi procured by
Jaime. Wishing our host good evening, McKenzie tucked his card into his ever
expanding rolodex, this one marked as a must return and a possible destination
for one world traveler looking for that special place to “pop the question” if
he ever tires or travel and dining with dear old dad.
Octava de Corpus
Gastronomia Boutique House & Wine Bar
Casa Republicana de la Junin, Plaza San Marcos
Calle Junin E2-167 Barrio San Marcos
Tel 2952989
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Where the Heck is Tallulah Falls and why do I Care?
October
Tallulah Falls is in Georgia!
I care because Ana is interested in Tallulah Falls School.
Tallulah Falls School
P.O.Box 249
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
706- 754-0400
www.tallulahfalls.org
After arriving in beautiful Hartsfield International Airport, Atlanta. We had a quick train trip to the Car Rental Terminal to claim our Fiat 500!
This airport has been greatly improved since my last insane visit. It is clean and well marked and EFFICIENT.
We hit the road with our nativgation system for a quick 1.5 hours to the 'Wine Country of Georgia".
The closest town and highly recommended Inn was in Clayton, Georgia. It wasn't much to look at until we got a bit closer. Located in the North Georgia mountains, we tootled to the Inn.
This area was a popular and posh summer retreat for those in Altanta. While it is not the happening place to go now, there are several large lakes with home on the lake that are very old school up to the millions of dollars. There was or still is alot of money in the Georgia hills!
Beautiful Scenery
Lodging
Beechwood Inn
220 Beechwood Dr
P.O. Box 429
Clayton, GA 30525
706-782-5485
info@beechwoodinn.ws
What a nice Inn!
Stayed just overnight in the Nantahala Suite. I took up the queen bed and my daughter the couch. It was a beautiful inn, full of charm. I wish I could have spent a week.
I was dissapointed to miss the acclaimed Saturday night dinner and 3000 bottle wine cellar, but I made due with a fine glass of Georgia wine and snack for the short social hour.
As we were a bit weary of our travels and eager to turn in early we needed to eat, so at the suggestion of the Innkeepers we headed to Main Street Clayton and Zepplins.
Clayton
Zepplins
Zepplins Restaurant
Clayton, GA
This was a fine family owned restaurant, apparently run by a "Roadie" of Led Zepplin. Food was good, reasonable and the walls decorated with album covers from the bands of the 60's and 70's a fun diversion.
The next day we tooled our way to Tallulah Falls School for tour and lunch. Ana finished up with an interview.
The school itself is "The Light of the Mountains" and is celebrating its 103 year. Founded by the Georgia Womens Club , great plans are underway and Foundation funding by old Altanta's Coca-Cola distributor is a major factor from growth as an Industrial School to a well respected institution. We had a great visit and Ana and I were very impressed.
Tallulah Falls is in Georgia!
I care because Ana is interested in Tallulah Falls School.
Tallulah Falls School
P.O.Box 249
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
706- 754-0400
www.tallulahfalls.org
After arriving in beautiful Hartsfield International Airport, Atlanta. We had a quick train trip to the Car Rental Terminal to claim our Fiat 500!
This airport has been greatly improved since my last insane visit. It is clean and well marked and EFFICIENT.
Fun Car!
We hit the road with our nativgation system for a quick 1.5 hours to the 'Wine Country of Georgia".
The closest town and highly recommended Inn was in Clayton, Georgia. It wasn't much to look at until we got a bit closer. Located in the North Georgia mountains, we tootled to the Inn.
This area was a popular and posh summer retreat for those in Altanta. While it is not the happening place to go now, there are several large lakes with home on the lake that are very old school up to the millions of dollars. There was or still is alot of money in the Georgia hills!
Beautiful Scenery
Lodging
Beechwood Inn
220 Beechwood Dr
P.O. Box 429
Clayton, GA 30525
706-782-5485
info@beechwoodinn.ws
What a nice Inn!
Stayed just overnight in the Nantahala Suite. I took up the queen bed and my daughter the couch. It was a beautiful inn, full of charm. I wish I could have spent a week.
I was dissapointed to miss the acclaimed Saturday night dinner and 3000 bottle wine cellar, but I made due with a fine glass of Georgia wine and snack for the short social hour.
As we were a bit weary of our travels and eager to turn in early we needed to eat, so at the suggestion of the Innkeepers we headed to Main Street Clayton and Zepplins.
Clayton
ZepplinsZepplins Restaurant
Clayton, GA
This was a fine family owned restaurant, apparently run by a "Roadie" of Led Zepplin. Food was good, reasonable and the walls decorated with album covers from the bands of the 60's and 70's a fun diversion.
The next day we tooled our way to Tallulah Falls School for tour and lunch. Ana finished up with an interview.
The school itself is "The Light of the Mountains" and is celebrating its 103 year. Founded by the Georgia Womens Club , great plans are underway and Foundation funding by old Altanta's Coca-Cola distributor is a major factor from growth as an Industrial School to a well respected institution. We had a great visit and Ana and I were very impressed.
We had a wonder day in Tallulah Falls and tore up the road in our Fiat back to Atlanta for our flight back to Denver...A great two day adventure!
We hope that Ana will be able to attend.
September Places and Spaces- planning
September 2012
Another month, another place,but altogether kinda boring...
This month found me attending the International Living Fast Track conference in Las Vegas!
First and foremost, Las Vegas Airport (McCarren) is a nightmare. Either that or my travel skills are weak. No one knows where to go, no signage and long lines!
I eventually found where I was suppossed to pick up the hourly courtesy bus, but it was gone. So I took a $60 cab ride to the hotel.
11011 West Charleston Blvd
Las Vegas,NV 89135
702-797-7777
www.redrocklasvegas.com
This is a Preferred Hotel... While I got a $145.00 conference rate, I do not know what makes this a Preferred Hotel. I would say that the line was shorter than MGM Grand for example, and thankfully it is not on the strip, but it was a casino hotel.
My room was FANTASTIC. I only wished I had someone to share it with. The view at night was nice of Las Vegas, but by day the roof of the tremendiously empty parking structure. It was two DD beds with a big screen TV, but could have used a coffee maker and a DVD or something.
The Roman Bathroom was tremendous. The tub took about two hundred gallons of precious Colorado River water to fill. The shower was luxurious.
In a certain way, the hotel is blessed to be sort of offset from the casino reality.
I have never seen so many penny slots. The main buffet restaurant had millions of seats but could not seem to move the line. EVERY meal was 1/2 hour line wait...minimum!
The pool was very nice but a bit chilly. It was ok for the bikini clad girls and very nice servers.
I only spent about two hours at the pool but the lounge chairs were comfy, but not good for reading.
All of the conference space was very nice and efficiently layed out. Food service breaks for conference were nicely set out and well serviced.
SOO after all of that, why was I in Vegas in the first place?
International Living's Fast-Track your Retirement Overseas
September 28-30,2012
I have been favorably impressed with IL's information.
They provided a decent seminar.
You do have to wonder the motivations, as I resisted the VIP Membership explanations.
They have International Living
The conference itself "make your dream life overseas a reality!" was filled with a busy daily schedule. I attended the full slate. They workshops were kind of brief, but served to inform me of benefits of a wide variety of countries. I did tend to focus on countrees and themes I was interested in. Some of the more interesting for a Financial Advisor were tax, real estate and specific country immigration matters.
The IL Events team and Representatives were an international lot who often presented entertaining information about a variety of international destinations. Some of the information was presented by real estate professionals vetted by International Living.
Take away?
I need more time and more due diligence!
There is a Lifestyle and Opportunity Conference in Quito, Ecuador February 7-9, 2013!
Another month, another place,but altogether kinda boring...
This month found me attending the International Living Fast Track conference in Las Vegas!
First and foremost, Las Vegas Airport (McCarren) is a nightmare. Either that or my travel skills are weak. No one knows where to go, no signage and long lines!
I eventually found where I was suppossed to pick up the hourly courtesy bus, but it was gone. So I took a $60 cab ride to the hotel.
11011 West Charleston Blvd
Las Vegas,NV 89135
702-797-7777
www.redrocklasvegas.com
This is a Preferred Hotel... While I got a $145.00 conference rate, I do not know what makes this a Preferred Hotel. I would say that the line was shorter than MGM Grand for example, and thankfully it is not on the strip, but it was a casino hotel.
My room was FANTASTIC. I only wished I had someone to share it with. The view at night was nice of Las Vegas, but by day the roof of the tremendiously empty parking structure. It was two DD beds with a big screen TV, but could have used a coffee maker and a DVD or something.
The Roman Bathroom was tremendous. The tub took about two hundred gallons of precious Colorado River water to fill. The shower was luxurious.
In a certain way, the hotel is blessed to be sort of offset from the casino reality.
I have never seen so many penny slots. The main buffet restaurant had millions of seats but could not seem to move the line. EVERY meal was 1/2 hour line wait...minimum!
The pool was very nice but a bit chilly. It was ok for the bikini clad girls and very nice servers.
I only spent about two hours at the pool but the lounge chairs were comfy, but not good for reading.
All of the conference space was very nice and efficiently layed out. Food service breaks for conference were nicely set out and well serviced.
SOO after all of that, why was I in Vegas in the first place?
International Living's Fast-Track your Retirement Overseas
September 28-30,2012
I have been favorably impressed with IL's information.
They provided a decent seminar.
You do have to wonder the motivations, as I resisted the VIP Membership explanations.
They have International Living
- World Club
- Publishers Roundtable
- RETA-Real Estate Trends Alert
- IL Lifetime Society
The conference itself "make your dream life overseas a reality!" was filled with a busy daily schedule. I attended the full slate. They workshops were kind of brief, but served to inform me of benefits of a wide variety of countries. I did tend to focus on countrees and themes I was interested in. Some of the more interesting for a Financial Advisor were tax, real estate and specific country immigration matters.
The IL Events team and Representatives were an international lot who often presented entertaining information about a variety of international destinations. Some of the information was presented by real estate professionals vetted by International Living.
Take away?
I need more time and more due diligence!
There is a Lifestyle and Opportunity Conference in Quito, Ecuador February 7-9, 2013!
August Places and Spaces
August 2012
August was amongst our busiest lately.
Mckenzie was off to Africa in August to do his time in Rwanda to study Conflict Resolution. His thesis is on the "Role of the Catholic Church and Clergy in Rwandan Genocide". A very weighty subject.
He stopped in Amsterdam for a few days before being off to Rwanda and Uganda. He is in country until December 9th when he departs his semester experience on the way to five days in Rome before returning home.
Our son Spencer was off to Subiaco Academy, his school in beautiful Subiaco Arkansas. I took him back to register and get settled, so I will describe a few places to eat and stay in beautiful Little Rock.
Subiaco Academy
405 North Subiaco Avenue
Subiaco, AR 72865
479-934-1006
www.subiacoacademy.us
Spencers school is about 2.5 hours drive from Little Rock so I got to see the countryside!
I will post pictures after next visit. It is kind of a gem in the middle of nowhere complete with
a nice facility and really huge church. I dont know where everyone comes from,but the church seems to be the hot spot for weddings. I don't know but I was more intrigued about the Subiaco Angus cattle and an apparent winery on site.
Hotel
I have had good experiences at Peabody Hotels over the years, so we books a stay in Little Rock. Overall not a bad stay for $120.00. The hotel is a 300 ish room monster attached to the Convention Center.
It has a lobby the size of a football field, but was very quiet during our stay. I saw no conventions happening but quite a few weddings. In general I found the Front Desk less than helpful. The Valet on the drive was understaffed seemingly pulling the Hotel Assistant Manager into the fray on several occcasions. Despite this the staff on the front drive was very helpful and friendly!
The room was nice, no turndown. Oh well I love the little Duck soaps. Six Peabody Ducks are very happy in the soap dish at home.
Peabody Hotel
Three Statehoue Plaza
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-906-4000
res 1800 Peabody
Another Hotel option:
Capital Hotel
111 West Markham
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-374-7474
The reason why?
I always err on the side of historical. This cute hotel dates back to the 1870's and U.S.Grant was one of it's first guests. Now totally beautiful it is right accross the street from the Peabody. The Capital Bar was a busy bar grill operation. Very busy and very friendly bar staff. Ate at the bar and watched a football game. The game was not very good but a few drinks of Leblon Cachaca put me in a great mood.
After breakfast at the Peabody which was both expensive and uninspiring, I was delighted to take my meals at Capital Hotel. While I did not have the opportunity to dine at Ashleys the fine dining room at the Capital for dinner, I did do two breakfasts. Excellent. Fine dining for breakfast, plenty of coffee and several national papers. One breakfast I had buckwheat pancakes, the other corn beef hash and eggs, all we well prepared and while breakfast ran me $20.00 $$$ for myself each day it was worth it!
I was dissapointed to not stay. Upon return home I was delighted to see a two day stay at the Capital Hotel listed on www.luxurylink.com. Available anytime until the end of the year, I bid and won this potential delight, only to have it snatched away by the Luxury Link people, who by email we unfriendly and unhelpful. I only had one Thursda-Friday in November to fly out to see Spencer at Subiaco Academy. The dates available were about ten in a 120 day period. I feel that Luxury Link is a let down. You pay up front and then they have zero flexibility, so I flushed that money, but still hope to stay and review the Capital Hotel.
Places
One might imagine that Little Rock has Clinton fans but wow. The minute you arrive at Bill and Hillary Clinton Little Rock Airport you had better drink the Cool Aid. As far as I can see Little Rock had little to offer that isn't related to the Clintons!
At any rate I screwed on my face and went off to see the Clinton Presidential Library! It was with mixed joy that upon arrival I found a festive atmosphere in celebration of Bill Clinton's birthday. Looked like the dregs were bussed to the festival. At any rate the museum was free for the day! This was the best news. A few exibits were interesting, but I was in and out in an hour! And no, I was dissapointed that the blue dress was not on display. There is no need for an address as all roads named Clinton seem to intersect at the site.
Flying Fish Interior
August was amongst our busiest lately.
Mckenzie was off to Africa in August to do his time in Rwanda to study Conflict Resolution. His thesis is on the "Role of the Catholic Church and Clergy in Rwandan Genocide". A very weighty subject.
He stopped in Amsterdam for a few days before being off to Rwanda and Uganda. He is in country until December 9th when he departs his semester experience on the way to five days in Rome before returning home.
Our son Spencer was off to Subiaco Academy, his school in beautiful Subiaco Arkansas. I took him back to register and get settled, so I will describe a few places to eat and stay in beautiful Little Rock.
Subiaco Academy
405 North Subiaco Avenue
Subiaco, AR 72865
479-934-1006
www.subiacoacademy.us
Spencers school is about 2.5 hours drive from Little Rock so I got to see the countryside!
I will post pictures after next visit. It is kind of a gem in the middle of nowhere complete with
a nice facility and really huge church. I dont know where everyone comes from,but the church seems to be the hot spot for weddings. I don't know but I was more intrigued about the Subiaco Angus cattle and an apparent winery on site.
Hotel
I have had good experiences at Peabody Hotels over the years, so we books a stay in Little Rock. Overall not a bad stay for $120.00. The hotel is a 300 ish room monster attached to the Convention Center.
It has a lobby the size of a football field, but was very quiet during our stay. I saw no conventions happening but quite a few weddings. In general I found the Front Desk less than helpful. The Valet on the drive was understaffed seemingly pulling the Hotel Assistant Manager into the fray on several occcasions. Despite this the staff on the front drive was very helpful and friendly!
The room was nice, no turndown. Oh well I love the little Duck soaps. Six Peabody Ducks are very happy in the soap dish at home.
Peabody Hotel
Three Statehoue Plaza
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-906-4000
res 1800 Peabody
Another Hotel option:
Capital Hotel
111 West Markham
Little Rock, AR 72201
501-374-7474
The reason why?
I always err on the side of historical. This cute hotel dates back to the 1870's and U.S.Grant was one of it's first guests. Now totally beautiful it is right accross the street from the Peabody. The Capital Bar was a busy bar grill operation. Very busy and very friendly bar staff. Ate at the bar and watched a football game. The game was not very good but a few drinks of Leblon Cachaca put me in a great mood.
After breakfast at the Peabody which was both expensive and uninspiring, I was delighted to take my meals at Capital Hotel. While I did not have the opportunity to dine at Ashleys the fine dining room at the Capital for dinner, I did do two breakfasts. Excellent. Fine dining for breakfast, plenty of coffee and several national papers. One breakfast I had buckwheat pancakes, the other corn beef hash and eggs, all we well prepared and while breakfast ran me $20.00 $$$ for myself each day it was worth it!
I was dissapointed to not stay. Upon return home I was delighted to see a two day stay at the Capital Hotel listed on www.luxurylink.com. Available anytime until the end of the year, I bid and won this potential delight, only to have it snatched away by the Luxury Link people, who by email we unfriendly and unhelpful. I only had one Thursda-Friday in November to fly out to see Spencer at Subiaco Academy. The dates available were about ten in a 120 day period. I feel that Luxury Link is a let down. You pay up front and then they have zero flexibility, so I flushed that money, but still hope to stay and review the Capital Hotel.
Places
One might imagine that Little Rock has Clinton fans but wow. The minute you arrive at Bill and Hillary Clinton Little Rock Airport you had better drink the Cool Aid. As far as I can see Little Rock had little to offer that isn't related to the Clintons!
At any rate I screwed on my face and went off to see the Clinton Presidential Library! It was with mixed joy that upon arrival I found a festive atmosphere in celebration of Bill Clinton's birthday. Looked like the dregs were bussed to the festival. At any rate the museum was free for the day! This was the best news. A few exibits were interesting, but I was in and out in an hour! And no, I was dissapointed that the blue dress was not on display. There is no need for an address as all roads named Clinton seem to intersect at the site.
Mock up of the Oval Office in the Clinton Presidential Library
Hot Spot
The spot was in oldtown Little Rock.
They have done extensive work on this historic and compact area. There seem to be alot of options, but the highlight for me was
Flying Fish
Markham Street Old Town
Little Rock, AR
I don't know where the people came from but this operation was humming. I always enjoy places that have a line out the door, a la The Pantry in downtown Los Angeles. Simple seafood and catfish sandwiches etc. The ambiance was wharf like simple. Food was great Oysters, Beer and a Yucatan style fish...Wow. I will keep my "Fishing License" punch card for a future visit.
Flying Fish Interior
If you get bored at a restaurant you could stop into the Clinton School of Public Affairs or the Clinton gift shop. The gift shop did have potential, especially the left over campaign trinkets!
Focus on Planning for the Future
Planning for future
In planning for a future move, one cannot be too educated or too informed!
Several annual publications on top retirement destinations peaked out interest. Toward the end of July I became intreged with a qualitative assessment as published at http://dailyreconing.com/best-places-in-the-world-to-retire/ .
This seventeen page go us really thinking about moving oversees. Potentially having all kids in school allows us to think about this option. This report distilled to the top 19 retirement destinations. Our concern is financial and quality of life. Not only did we watch endless House Hunters International, we read in detail the information on on these nineteen. We also reviewed http://www.state.gov, the US Goverment State Department site for country specific profiles, history and security information.
Fairly early on we decided that cultures too alien to our own were not of immense interest, so out end Asia. We also arrived at the conclusion that Europe sounded interesting and romantic but the shape of the Euro and social concerns did not provide the economic growth and opportunity we are potentially seeking.
We have concluded that besides a few areas in the United States that might be closer to our children, we would be happiest seeking opportunity in Mexico, Latin America or South America.
Of these possibilities we have focus on Eduador,Mexico, Nicaragua( my wife may nix that idea as she doesn't like how the name sounds?). Also of potential are Costa Rica and Belize.
Focus Focus Focus
Overall, I have tried to be focused on:
Consumer Prices in Managua are 40.23% lowerthan in Denver, CO
Consumer Prices Including Rent in managua are 49.75% lower than in Denver, CO
Rent Prices in Managua are 78.87% lower than in Denver, CO
Restaurant Prices in Managua are 54.04% lower than in Denver, CO
Groceries Prices in Managua are 42.67% lower than in Denver, CO
Local Purchasing power in Managuea is 66.65% lower than in Denver, CO
Each line item within a catagory provides data. Be aware of the size of the sample information provided.
With that data, and using a fairly easy to construct Excel spreadsheet comparisions can be drawn for budgeting.
Education-International Living
In July I began to be involved in sites providing information.
One of the most interesting is www.internationalliving.com
They allow for sign up to a variety of intersting newsletters,"postcard" information and paid events.upon sign up I got the report, "How to Prepare for a Move Overseas- A Checklist", which I found very interesting.
While International Living provides for "Memberships" at fairly steap prices they do offer alot of information and contact. Enough country specific information to get me to sign up for a conference:
International Living's Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas to be held in Las Vegas at the end of September 2012. It was $695.00 for the two day conference please travel and lodging but it was an opportunity to look into overseas options more in detail.
Arm yourself with all sorts of information
Becoming further educated involves a ton of reading. Arm yourself with all of the travel related books for countries you are interested in. We have taken to a few minutes morning reading on these countries. Be sure they have good maps!
Think Ahead
For this I remind you to think and plan ahead! Our time frame for action is anywhere from June -December 2013. Sounds like a long way off, but a year to a year and a half is not much time.
While contemplating our next moves, we are planning visits to each area for a look see.
While doing this I found opportunity in my favorite cruise site. www.vacationstogo.com.
Many people move and settle, others can easily plan cruises, in particular "repositioning". In this catagory you may have 120 day cruises to much of the world "on the cheap". I am cheaper than these prices even at heavily discounted rates, but do have flexibility and time.
Our Trip Plan
Wow, was I excited to find a cruise that would visit many of the areas we wanted to go!
Again, using my planning abilities I have found a deal..a seventeen night cruise. San Francisco to Valparaiso, Chile. This cruise stops in Cabo San Lucas Mexico, Puerto Quetzal Guatamala, San Juan Del Sur Nicaragua, Puntrenas Costa Rica, Manta Ecuador, Lima Peru, La Serena Chile and Finally Valparaiso Chile.
What was the cost for this adventure?. Seventeen days at $82 per person per night! Of course that doesnt include airfare to San Francisco and air back from Chile and of course all of the fun excursions, but it was a pretty good deal at 42% off the normal rate. Enough of a deal that we planned for our three kids to join us on the beach in Chile and then off to Santaigo before flying home. I will keep you posted on the trip!
In planning for a future move, one cannot be too educated or too informed!
Several annual publications on top retirement destinations peaked out interest. Toward the end of July I became intreged with a qualitative assessment as published at http://dailyreconing.com/best-places-in-the-world-to-retire/ .
This seventeen page go us really thinking about moving oversees. Potentially having all kids in school allows us to think about this option. This report distilled to the top 19 retirement destinations. Our concern is financial and quality of life. Not only did we watch endless House Hunters International, we read in detail the information on on these nineteen. We also reviewed http://www.state.gov, the US Goverment State Department site for country specific profiles, history and security information.
Fairly early on we decided that cultures too alien to our own were not of immense interest, so out end Asia. We also arrived at the conclusion that Europe sounded interesting and romantic but the shape of the Euro and social concerns did not provide the economic growth and opportunity we are potentially seeking.
We have concluded that besides a few areas in the United States that might be closer to our children, we would be happiest seeking opportunity in Mexico, Latin America or South America.
Of these possibilities we have focus on Eduador,Mexico, Nicaragua( my wife may nix that idea as she doesn't like how the name sounds?). Also of potential are Costa Rica and Belize.
Focus Focus Focus
Overall, I have tried to be focused on:
- Our own budget. This entails working up a current Income and Expense cash flow. It was a bit of an eye opener that doing nothing in particular we are spending $6500.00 per month.
- Our Assets and Liabilities on a Net Worth Worksheet. This includes current information.
- I also completed a "Retirement Analyzer" for the both of us. This tool I use in my financial business is excellent for planning retirement. Not only does it handle the current situation it plans for practically all eventualities including social security and the what if's of Long Term Care.
Consumer Prices in Managua are 40.23% lowerthan in Denver, CO
Consumer Prices Including Rent in managua are 49.75% lower than in Denver, CO
Rent Prices in Managua are 78.87% lower than in Denver, CO
Restaurant Prices in Managua are 54.04% lower than in Denver, CO
Groceries Prices in Managua are 42.67% lower than in Denver, CO
Local Purchasing power in Managuea is 66.65% lower than in Denver, CO
Each line item within a catagory provides data. Be aware of the size of the sample information provided.
With that data, and using a fairly easy to construct Excel spreadsheet comparisions can be drawn for budgeting.
Here is my first comparison for several cities Place |
Current | US | Mexico | Nicaragua | Ecuador | |
| City | Littleton | Merida | Granada | Quito | ||
| Comparison Questions scale: | ||||||
| Government Stability | ||||||
| Rate of inflation | ||||||
| Quality of Life Index | ||||||
| Quality of Health Care | ||||||
| Hazards Weather natural | ||||||
| Qualify for Visa | ||||||
| Quality of Banking System | ||||||
| Adult activities | ||||||
| Access to Travel | ||||||
| Budget | ||||||
| To Rent 2br2ba | 1650 | |||||
| To Buy | $150,000 | $150,000 | $150,000 | |||
| Median Mthly Sal after tax | $3,580 | $2,000 | $600 | $321.38 | ||
| Expenses: | ||||||
| Mort/rent | 1650 | 495 | 363 | 478.5 | ||
| Utilities | 185 | 100 | 72.15 | 32.5 | ||
| Phones | 300 | 300 | 300 | 300 | ||
| Auto | 185 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Transportation-public | 0 | 40 | 12 | 40 | ||
| Fuel | 150 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Insurance-health | 1184 | 500 | 500 | 500 | ||
| Insurance-Auto | 222 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Groceries$200 for two | 300 | 100 | 116 | 136 | ||
| Personal Care | ||||||
| Ent/dining 3 per wk | 250 | 462 | 177 | 135 | ||
| Cable and internet | 143 | 20 | 50 | 57.5 | ||
| Gifts | ||||||
| Charity | ||||||
| Clothing | 100 | 50 | 50 | 50 | ||
| Travel Expense-kids | $300 | $291 | $417 | |||
| Total Proposed | 4669 | 2367 | 1931.15 | 2146.5 | ||
| CWP Horses | 1000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| CWP Shiffrin | 280 | |||||
| * based on numbeo | ||||||
| **based on 5 r/t 1st year | $800 rt | $700 rt | $1000 rt | |||
| *** Ins required/catistrophic | ||||||
Education-International Living
In July I began to be involved in sites providing information.
One of the most interesting is www.internationalliving.com
They allow for sign up to a variety of intersting newsletters,"postcard" information and paid events.upon sign up I got the report, "How to Prepare for a Move Overseas- A Checklist", which I found very interesting.
While International Living provides for "Memberships" at fairly steap prices they do offer alot of information and contact. Enough country specific information to get me to sign up for a conference:
International Living's Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas to be held in Las Vegas at the end of September 2012. It was $695.00 for the two day conference please travel and lodging but it was an opportunity to look into overseas options more in detail.
Arm yourself with all sorts of information
Becoming further educated involves a ton of reading. Arm yourself with all of the travel related books for countries you are interested in. We have taken to a few minutes morning reading on these countries. Be sure they have good maps!
Think Ahead
For this I remind you to think and plan ahead! Our time frame for action is anywhere from June -December 2013. Sounds like a long way off, but a year to a year and a half is not much time.
While contemplating our next moves, we are planning visits to each area for a look see.
While doing this I found opportunity in my favorite cruise site. www.vacationstogo.com.
Many people move and settle, others can easily plan cruises, in particular "repositioning". In this catagory you may have 120 day cruises to much of the world "on the cheap". I am cheaper than these prices even at heavily discounted rates, but do have flexibility and time.
Our Trip Plan
Wow, was I excited to find a cruise that would visit many of the areas we wanted to go!
Again, using my planning abilities I have found a deal..a seventeen night cruise. San Francisco to Valparaiso, Chile. This cruise stops in Cabo San Lucas Mexico, Puerto Quetzal Guatamala, San Juan Del Sur Nicaragua, Puntrenas Costa Rica, Manta Ecuador, Lima Peru, La Serena Chile and Finally Valparaiso Chile.
What was the cost for this adventure?. Seventeen days at $82 per person per night! Of course that doesnt include airfare to San Francisco and air back from Chile and of course all of the fun excursions, but it was a pretty good deal at 42% off the normal rate. Enough of a deal that we planned for our three kids to join us on the beach in Chile and then off to Santaigo before flying home. I will keep you posted on the trip!
June to July Places and Spaces
Since selling our equestrian business and moving to start Mayflower Wealth Management, we have made a concerted effort to arrange our lives and plan for the future. This planning has reached a frenzied pace.
As part of this blog, it is my intention to discuss not only the planning involved but also provide description and resourses and yes even travel related reviews.
Here is a outline of activity since June 2012.
- Planning for a future life first entails planning for a financial future! I will discuss the dollars and cents related to such a plan in later posts.
- June 2012- Began research on locations to move to. At this point we have:
Noteworthy stops:
- Albany.
Early June is the perfect time for a visit. Not too hot and not too cold. We overnighted in Albany, and the only thing of note in the downtown area is the State House and a few odds and ends. I am sure Albany has more to offer, but maybe next visit. We stayed at the Radisson Hotel. A so so hotel undergoing some level of restoration.
-Emma Willard School
Wow what a fantastic campus and historic buildings. It is actually worth a walk through.
Emma Willard School Campus
Ana in a dress!
Troy, NY
The home of the original "Uncle Sam" has a cute downtown area one wouldnt expect minutes from Albany. It has quite a few restaurants and galleries.
Ana in Downtown Troy
We made a quick trip over the Fourth of July weekend to visit McKenzie. He was involved in an internship program with the Center for hemispheric Defense Studies at Ft McNair. As a student at George Washington University he had never had the pleasure to summer in Washington D.C. Anyone who has traveled to D.C. in the summer knows that I am being sarcastic. Our visit was one of the hottest periods on record.
As humidity is already the norm in D.C. the 104 degree mark adds a particular hot and sweaty attitude to the city. We also suffered through a recovery from a freak wind event that had knocked power out all over the city.
Over the years we have had many trips to D.C. All have been a fantastic educational and touristic experience! I will highlight just a few for this trip and remember to add more about future trips.
Noteworthy Hotels:
We have been very loyal visitors to Kimpton Hotels. They have nine hotels in D.C. proper, and several others in Alexandria Va. If you are not familiar with Kimpton, it is a unique collection. They have several different level of hotels: Palomar, Monaco, Four Star Collection and a Three Star Collection.
We have stayed at Kimptons in Denver(Monaco), Minneapolis( The Grand), Philadelphia (Palomar). In D.C. we have stayed at Helix, Palomar, Rouge, and Topaz.
Why Kimpton?. Well each hotel is unique, and the location is terrific. We have stayed at so many in D.C. as they are located conveniently to George Washington University and all in interesting neighbourhoods. They are all smaller, boutique hotels. They have a good frequent visitor program, free happy social hour and while small, at least one decent food operation. My kids appreciate hot coco in the winter and the cucumber water in summer. They are dog super friendly and while we havent taken our dog, we always get a gold fish!. It was particularly cute that some properties email you in advance of your visit requesting a picture of your pet and then framing it for your room on arrival. P.S. -No I don't work for Kimpton!
This visit we stayed at
Topaz
1733 N Street NW
Washington D.C. 20036
202-393-3000
Res 800-424-2950
The staff was helpful and friendly as well as apologetic for the a elevator that blew a fuze in the storm. Some of these smaller properties are rennovated older hotels or apartment houses.
Tabard Inn
1739 N Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
202-331-8528
Wow what a find! I have stayed at Topaz several times and always wanted to stay at Tabard which is right next door. This time I looked around and dined with Christine, McKenzie, and Spencer at the restaurant.
The lounge is very clubby and comfy, and while we looked at the delighful outdoor patio, it was so smoking hot that they didn't have it open.
The restaurant was excellent but $$$$ as any place in D.C. Christine eats like a bird and the four of us ran $210.00 total. Still it is a treasure.
Shake Shack
1216 18th Street NW
Washington D.C. 20036
A, D.C. mainstay has great burgers, fries, and wow the Purple Cow Float was great on a hot evening. Made to order and great...but it takes time.
A bunch of food for three: $$ $29.00
Founding Farmers Restaurant
1924 Pennsylvannia Avenue NW
Washington D.C.
Stopped in for Saturday breakfast. It is a wait to get into this huge restaurant at 1924 Pennsylvannia Ave NW Crab eggs benedict were fantastic.
Brunch for two: $$$$ $43.00
We also visited Alexandria:
It was a lunch visit, but Alexandria is a great place to stroll. We almost dropped dead from the heat and had to stop at the nearest Kimpton: Monaco in Alexandria for cucumber water before hitting the Metro!
Fish Market Restaurant
Alexandria, VA
703-836-5676
In a quandry as to where to eat with all the choices we settled on the Fish Market. We had a fantastic lunch with lots of great fresh seafood. Oysters were fresh and delicious...
Lunch for four $$$$ $160.00
Hidden Spot
Jessie Taylor Seafood
1100 Maine Ave SW
Washington, D.C. 20024
Lo
As our student seems to get by and get around in D.C. he took us for a stop under the bridge by the estuary to pig out! It was kinda gross and hot out but I couldn't resist fresh crab legs, shellfish and corn on the cob!
The three of us had a great brown bag of seafood from one of the vendors Jessie Taylors. Wow it was great!
Looking for fresh seafood!
Walk around the estuary
Heading out from of seadfood feast we took around the estuary. We worked up a sweat but took in the monument I had never seen after all these years.
The Jefferson Memorial was just a short walk. Very impressive but my son says its better at night!
I bet with girl friends!
Resting before the walk
FDR Memorial is a bit further along. Very impressive!
Here is Spencer posing..."The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"
Further along around the park and estuary is the new MLK monument. Another must see but for some reason my picture didn't work out !
As part of this blog, it is my intention to discuss not only the planning involved but also provide description and resourses and yes even travel related reviews.
Here is a outline of activity since June 2012.
- Planning for a future life first entails planning for a financial future! I will discuss the dollars and cents related to such a plan in later posts.
- June 2012- Began research on locations to move to. At this point we have:
- Upstate New York, Albany Troy area June 7-10,2012: This relates to our daughters prospects for boarding school at Emma Willard, an all girls school founded in 1814.
Noteworthy stops:
- Albany.
Early June is the perfect time for a visit. Not too hot and not too cold. We overnighted in Albany, and the only thing of note in the downtown area is the State House and a few odds and ends. I am sure Albany has more to offer, but maybe next visit. We stayed at the Radisson Hotel. A so so hotel undergoing some level of restoration.
-Emma Willard School
Wow what a fantastic campus and historic buildings. It is actually worth a walk through.
Emma Willard School Campus
Ana in a dress!
Troy, NY
The home of the original "Uncle Sam" has a cute downtown area one wouldnt expect minutes from Albany. It has quite a few restaurants and galleries.
Ana in Downtown Troy
July 2012We made a quick trip over the Fourth of July weekend to visit McKenzie. He was involved in an internship program with the Center for hemispheric Defense Studies at Ft McNair. As a student at George Washington University he had never had the pleasure to summer in Washington D.C. Anyone who has traveled to D.C. in the summer knows that I am being sarcastic. Our visit was one of the hottest periods on record.
As humidity is already the norm in D.C. the 104 degree mark adds a particular hot and sweaty attitude to the city. We also suffered through a recovery from a freak wind event that had knocked power out all over the city.
Over the years we have had many trips to D.C. All have been a fantastic educational and touristic experience! I will highlight just a few for this trip and remember to add more about future trips.
Noteworthy Hotels:
We have been very loyal visitors to Kimpton Hotels. They have nine hotels in D.C. proper, and several others in Alexandria Va. If you are not familiar with Kimpton, it is a unique collection. They have several different level of hotels: Palomar, Monaco, Four Star Collection and a Three Star Collection.
We have stayed at Kimptons in Denver(Monaco), Minneapolis( The Grand), Philadelphia (Palomar). In D.C. we have stayed at Helix, Palomar, Rouge, and Topaz.
Why Kimpton?. Well each hotel is unique, and the location is terrific. We have stayed at so many in D.C. as they are located conveniently to George Washington University and all in interesting neighbourhoods. They are all smaller, boutique hotels. They have a good frequent visitor program, free happy social hour and while small, at least one decent food operation. My kids appreciate hot coco in the winter and the cucumber water in summer. They are dog super friendly and while we havent taken our dog, we always get a gold fish!. It was particularly cute that some properties email you in advance of your visit requesting a picture of your pet and then framing it for your room on arrival. P.S. -No I don't work for Kimpton!
This visit we stayed at
Topaz
1733 N Street NW
Washington D.C. 20036
202-393-3000
Res 800-424-2950
The staff was helpful and friendly as well as apologetic for the a elevator that blew a fuze in the storm. Some of these smaller properties are rennovated older hotels or apartment houses.
Tabard Inn
1739 N Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
202-331-8528
Wow what a find! I have stayed at Topaz several times and always wanted to stay at Tabard which is right next door. This time I looked around and dined with Christine, McKenzie, and Spencer at the restaurant.
The lounge is very clubby and comfy, and while we looked at the delighful outdoor patio, it was so smoking hot that they didn't have it open.
The restaurant was excellent but $$$$ as any place in D.C. Christine eats like a bird and the four of us ran $210.00 total. Still it is a treasure.
Shake Shack
1216 18th Street NW
Washington D.C. 20036
A, D.C. mainstay has great burgers, fries, and wow the Purple Cow Float was great on a hot evening. Made to order and great...but it takes time.
A bunch of food for three: $$ $29.00
Founding Farmers Restaurant
1924 Pennsylvannia Avenue NW
Washington D.C.
Stopped in for Saturday breakfast. It is a wait to get into this huge restaurant at 1924 Pennsylvannia Ave NW Crab eggs benedict were fantastic.
Brunch for two: $$$$ $43.00
We also visited Alexandria:
It was a lunch visit, but Alexandria is a great place to stroll. We almost dropped dead from the heat and had to stop at the nearest Kimpton: Monaco in Alexandria for cucumber water before hitting the Metro!
Fish Market Restaurant
Alexandria, VA
703-836-5676
In a quandry as to where to eat with all the choices we settled on the Fish Market. We had a fantastic lunch with lots of great fresh seafood. Oysters were fresh and delicious...
Lunch for four $$$$ $160.00
Jessie Taylor Seafood
1100 Maine Ave SW
Washington, D.C. 20024
LoAs our student seems to get by and get around in D.C. he took us for a stop under the bridge by the estuary to pig out! It was kinda gross and hot out but I couldn't resist fresh crab legs, shellfish and corn on the cob!
The three of us had a great brown bag of seafood from one of the vendors Jessie Taylors. Wow it was great!
Looking for fresh seafood!
Walk around the estuary
Heading out from of seadfood feast we took around the estuary. We worked up a sweat but took in the monument I had never seen after all these years.
The Jefferson Memorial was just a short walk. Very impressive but my son says its better at night!
I bet with girl friends!
Resting before the walkFDR Memorial is a bit further along. Very impressive!
Here is Spencer posing..."The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"
Further along around the park and estuary is the new MLK monument. Another must see but for some reason my picture didn't work out !
Be sure to see my next posting for the August - September period
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