Edd:  May 17 was our 14th expat anniversary. A few days ago we celebrated another milestone that to me is the most important day of the year—our 53rd wedding anniversary. This year I wanted to surprise you with something special.

Cynthia:  I don’t generally like surprises. But on the morning of our anniversary when you told me to pack an overnight bag because we were checking into Itza Hotel for the night, I was very excited.

E:  For a number of reasons we didn’t do much to celebrate last year, so I wanted to plan something memorable this time. We’ve been in most of the luxury properties in Cuenca, but this one opened in 2021 shortly after we left Ecuador to travel full time.

C:  As soon as we walked into the lobby—wow! We knew this was going to be great. So elegant.

E:  You assumed I had booked a regular room. Nope, only the best for you, my love. We were staying in a King Suite with two balconies overlooking the historic...