Where Are the Apartments?

We came to Cuenca with the idea that the streets of Cuenca are lined with perfect apartments. That thought is idealistically in a perfect world. We have had the help of two Cuencans, who have both said that apartments are fewer and fewer. For those who are planning to relocate to Cuenca, we recommend the help of either of those two.

Henry Abril is a student at the university, majoring in hotel adminstration. His English is excellent in that he was an exchange student to the US. Henry is very willing to help. We sent Henry the criteria for our ideal apartment, when we met him, we gave him an initial fee of $100. Upon signing the papers, he received another $100. For an additional $100, he will assist with the purchase of appliances and furniture. Henry has his own car and is very accommodating. He can be contacted by either phone or e-mail.

Other apartments were shown to us by Martha Abril (no relation, it's a common name). Martha's English is excellent also, having lived in New York for a number of years. Her office is located on the second floor of the same building as California Kitchen, at Borrero 12-08 and Sanurima. One of the apartments was located in La Palermo, which is prime real estate, others were not so good, but there was a wide variety. Martha offers a variety of other services for those relocating.

After several days of searching, Henry came up with the perfect apartment for us. Above is the entrance. It is located in the Tres Puentes section of Cuenca on Avenida Primero de Mayo.

It is located on the top floor of Edificio Vista al Rio and has an enormous terrace. The terrace over looks the Yanuncay River in front, with views of the Cajas in the distance.

Above are views as you enter, followed by a look down the hall.

From the terrace, you can also see the top of the cathedral at Parque Calderon. Below is the view of the Cajas and the river.

Below is the view from the front of the terrace.

The apartment is exactly what we wanted. It has sky lights in the bathrooms, office, and laundry room which is separate. The terrace is huge with inviting views of the mountains and river. It is in a great area. Nick is accepted in the building. What more could we want?

Until next time,

Mick and Kathy