Wow, this particular article seems to be getting the same amount of hate that my first article in the series received. So for all you haters out there, here’s a reminder, that your hate fuels me and shows me that I am doing the right thing. Plus, it really helps with the algorithms so bring it on!!! 🥰😍🥰 https://substack.com/@expatonabudget/note/c-90464631
Hi Amy, that’s awesome! And now you know, my articles aren’t for you :) BTW: I did not leave because of the authoritarian fascists. I left in 2022 because I could no longer afford to live in America, I never felt safe there and the healthcare (especially for the aged, which I’m quickly heading into) was horrendous. Yes, please do resist! I thank you for doing so!!
😉 Just had to throw it out there for the undecideds. Thankfully although I’m on the far side of 70 my health is good. And I’ve got 3 adult children who aren’t going anywhere. Just to be on the safe side, my husband is looking into Polish citizenship (his father left from there after hiding in forests during WW II)!
Hi Brandi, everyone gets to do what feels right for them!!! I left in 2022 because that's what was right for me :) And that's why I write these articles, for people who want to leave for whatever reason. I wanted to leave for over 10 years before I did. People who want to stay and fight, should definitely do that. I would never tell anyone to leave if they want to stay, nor do I promote that.
As for not being able to afford to leave... If you read my articles you'll see that people can get work online, earn as little $500 a month, leave and live abroad if that's what they want!!!
If my articles make you sad, I encourage you to find another writer who more aligns with your values.
We shouldn’t BE in this situation, but we’ve been distracted in their algorithms while they hack away at our Constitution that was supposed to protect us from this. The window is closing, and we should know what our options are. We should have access to information so we can make intelligent decisions. We should be able to decide for ourselves how we keep our freedom.
Did you know:
Research shows that 3.5% of the population striking ensures serious political change.
281,566 people have signed The General Strike card. 10,718,434 more signatures are needed. That’s a LOT of signatures before the US is ready to act. Hitler dismantled Democracy in 53 days. We are on day 50.
Thank you for taking the time to highlight resources for marginalized folks. I’m planning to visit Mexico this summer in hopes of moving there next year (or sooner, given this current administration).
Hi Shadra, thank you so much for your comment!! I'm really trying to include resources for all, especially marginalized people. I love that you're going to visit Mexico, it's a fantastic place to move!!! And yes, the sooner the better IMO too!!!
Wow!! How generous... will check. Want to move yesterday. But my husband is suffering from Vascular Dementia. I's already starting to investigate and my pro-con list. Your post and resources are great. Will buy you a coffee. Thanks!!!
Hi, I'm so sorry to hear about your husband!! I think it's a good plan to be researching now and write your pro-con list!!! Dreaming and planning some of the best parts of the move :) Thank you so much for the coffee donation!!!!
Thank you for this. My wife and I are interested in Portugal as well. What region did you end up choosing? Rental options? Appreciate this informative post.
Hi Richard, I'm in Porto, the second largest city in Portugal in the "colder" north. Rents have quadrupled in the past 4 years (seriously) but are still significantly less than they are in California. You can look on Idealista (app or online) to get an idea but if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is! If you're looking at purchasing, a lot of the houses on Idealista are using fake AI photos but they're really tear downs!
I feel like this article is missing the hardest part -- how to get paid abroad. I don't have a fully remote job that lets me work from anywhere, don't have tons of passive income paying me a living wage, work in an industry that typically doesn't allow fully remote like software, and how does one even go about trying to get a job in a foreign country?
I am the main breadwinner for a family of 5 so I can't just leave without a solid plan for stable income.
But as the breadwinner for a family of five, that's extremely challenging. If you want to go, you could look at some non-alternative ways to make it happen instead. I know one family of five who travels the world (first the US, then Europe) in a van (links below). Sacrifices (of comfort as you know it now and/or spending habits...) will have to be made.
Depending on the ages of your 3 kids, you could also look into work exchanges like Workaway or Woofing where you exchange work (which can be childcare, animal care, gardening, teaching English, etc.) for room and board.
Or--you may have to figure out how to earn for 5 people online and work toward that for the next year or two.
What kind of info do you have about sending Social security checks overseas. Couldn't find it on Wise. Do you need to keep a US bank and then transfer.? Nightmare would be if Trump stopped payments going overseas Thinking about Greece as I know some people there.
Hi John, my friend who lives here overseas has her social security deposited directly into her account here, she no longer has an account in the US. I don't know any more than that but a quick search found this: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10137.pdf and this: https://www.ssa.gov/international/payments_outsideUS.html ---I love Greece, that's a fantastic option!! I wonder if you can have your checks or direct deposit go to someone you trust in the US who can then send you the money. Or if you keep a bank account in the US you can just have it deposited directly there and transfer it yourself.
So proud of you - as always - for being such an inspiration. I have the life I do now primarily from your support of my breaking away from the US and from you leading by example! 🥰
Being a Canadian, I would like to invite American medical professionals, teachers, child-care specialists and any other pro looking for a way out to come to Canada and live here. We could use your varied expertise in our country. Living here will take some adjustment, but not as much as you might think, and you will be appreciated more than you are in your own country.
I did scan this, Kimberly Anne. You offer a lot of good ideas. That said, from where I sit, absolutely NOTHING beats spending a really good chunk of time in your potential country, not on vacay, but seriously interviewing people who have been there for years and years and years. There is no community so absolutely convinced of their utter expertise about all things expat as those who are still in the one to two-year honey moon period. I've seen it all over the world in some 47 countries and I have indeed lived as an expat. I am currently exploring Ecuador, and am also writing about the investigation, but I am concentrating on the small print and what people simply do not understand about such a profoundly difficult move, especially if they are retirees. Sure there are better places to live, but what about end of life care? What about dying in a foreign country? What about moving as a couple and your husband dies three months later? What about what about what about? If you're in your thirties, these things simply don't land on the radar. For those of us well past sixty, and I'm 72, they are incredibly important. Lots of great ideas and resources here. That said I heartily encourage people to spend serious, serious time in their target country. And most of it speaking with expats with more than a decade of experience living there. Those are the folks you can tell you the ropes, the problems and challenges, lay out the cultural issues and they have the networks. American imperialism does not play well overseas, and our independence can be incredibly isolating. Thanks for a great piece.
Hi Julia! Thank you so much for your comment and insights, they are extremely helpful!
I had never been to Portugal before moving here because I couldn't afford a scouting trip.
I understand what you're saying but I have never, in my life, had a honeymoon period. I know people report having that for different things (when they first enter recovery for example or move to a new country...) but not for me. My first year here was tremendously difficult. My sister, as well, had a horrible first 2 years when she moved to France.
I think it's very important to look ahead re: aging and dying in another country. As I spoke about in my healthcare article, I never even knew that good (or preventative) healthcare even existed before moving here.
Re: speaking with expats who have lived in specific countries for a long time. I found that to be a very mixed bag. There are many negative people who brought their negativity with them (akin to: wherever you go, there you are) so in my experience people have to be vetted. I talked with an expat in PV Mexico once (as an example) who hated everything and complained incessantly for an hour. If someone were to listen to him, they would think PV was a horrible place to live. But in truth, anywhere this particular expat goes, is going to be horrible for him. Then I spoke to another expat who loved living there. I'm just using this as an example because personally, if I had listened to what others thought, or wanted, or their experiences, I never would have left America.
I think that, in the end, everyone has to find their own way and do what's right for them!
What's right for you will absolutely resonate with many people, but not all. And the same goes for the way I did it.
If I hadn't had a dying dog and an overbearing/controlling family I would have done things very differently. I would have done the Schengen Shuffle to see where I wanted to settle in Europe before settling but the way I did it was the best option for me at the time.
I love that you're exploring Ecuador and look forward to reading about your experiences there!
Thanks, Kimberly. To your response: any and all interviews with expats might wisely be seen as nothing more than information gathering. The foolish assume that if person A loves it, they will, or if Person B hates it, so will they. As a journalist who does her research, the way I've approached it has been to get onto the FB expat pages and watch. People swiftly reveal their stances, and what you need to do is keep a distance while seeing what people discuss and where their value systems lie. I'm surprised that you say that if you'd listened to others you'd never have left America. Why would you give that much power to others' experiences? It's just information, and to be fair, if you interview people who have lived in a country for more than five years at least, those are where you get the solid experiences of folks who have evolved past the touristy happy first few years. They've settled in, made mistakes, had big issues, nearly left and decided to stay anyway. That is where the real value lies. I've just spent more than three weeks in Ecuador doing just that, especially spending time with people who share my value set. This where most folks make the biggest mistakes, they don't look at the expat stories through their own value lens. I understand your point. It may well be that we see this differently because I am extremely well-traveled (47 countries and many many years). You learn to ask very different questions- and especially this, for what it's worth: the least happy people have zero travel experience. They haven't been inconvenienced, they have no idea who the rest of the world lives, and much of their resentment stems from American exceptionalism and imperialism attitudes. When we release those assumptions and spend more time being open, soft and curious about the world, it unfolds in front of in glorious ways. I've met people in Ecuador who hate everything because it's not America. To make such a big move, sell everything and head overseas is a massive move, and if it doesn't work it's devastating. I recognize that we all do this differently, but the one biggest piece of advice that has cropped up again and again and again from all my interviews with expats, visa lawyers and all the professionals I've just met: do your research. Go check out the country and people beforehand. You say you didn't have the money- understandable. But think of it this way: people LOVE to say they don't have time to exercise to get healthy, right? But they sure have time to spend endless hours with doctors with a body that has fallen apart because they didn't have time earlier in life. The same goes for such a profoundly life-changing move especially late in life. If we can't make time to do the basic research up front, imagine the impact on us financially if we make the move and discover that the new place doesn't fit our value set. I hear your points, and while yes we all do things our way, I stand by the argument to do your due diligence first. The best travel writers who write about living overseas, and the top one is a close friend of mine, Tim Leffel, will underscore the critical need for advance work. As for writing about this, l've already published multiple articles on Substack. I don't put links to my writing on other people's threads, I consider it rude as this is your geography, Kim. But you can find my work but clicking my profile.
Hi Julia, thank you so much for your insights and knowledge! I did exactly what you suggest against LOL!!! And thankfully, for me, it's worked out: so far.
But of course, I understand what you're saying and I kind of wish I had done the digital nomad Schengen Shuffle first.
I do love slow travel and feel that even a month in a country isn't enough (for me) but three months sounds perfect.
I plan to invest in a van in the next year or two so I can do just that and spend more exploring other European countries.
Sadly, I really didn't have the funds to scout Portugal first. I had just enough to either move here or stay living in a van full-time in the US (which is what I did for a year).
Yes, I know who Tim Leffel is and I absolutely value the experiences of others who know so much more than I do (and also those who have had different experiences).
I do think there's more than one, two, three or even four ways to do things but I do agree re: doing your due diligence.
I spent ten years researching places to move abroad and three years researching Portugal before I moved here. I agree with what you're saying about seeing who in the FB groups are just gripers and who have real things to say.
The reason I wouldn't have moved if I'd listened to others is because I had almost no one in my life who was supportive of my move, including most (not all) of my family and almost all of my "friends". It finally got the point where I had to stop talking about it with people, and just do it. I like to mention this because I'm sure I'm not alone. While I obviously did it anyway, many others may not. It's extra hard to make a huge life change when you have no support.
I will absolutely look at your articles and I'd even be overjoyed if you wanted to share them here 😃
Thank you again, I'm so happy you have taken your time to comment!!!
I am so very sorry that you had people in your life who didn't support your move. First it's brave as hell to do such a thing, Kim. Tim writes about how everybody but everybody has reasons why you should stay. I get it too. If I don't make this move, and I'm still up in the air about it, the reasons will be mine, just as yours are. To your point I suspect that those who are much younger- and I also did the expat thing in my early thirties- have far less to lose. My cohort is at the end of their runway, sixty and above usually, so they have far more to lose if it doesn't work out. They're also more often set in their ways and less willing to make the necessary sacrifices and live with the inevitable discomforts. Those don't bother me- that's part of life, and to my mind part of what makes such a big move so extraordinary. That said if you're in your first third, taking the leap without exploration is a lot easier to survive than at 65 or 80. So my lean in that direction is likely biased because of age to be fair to us both. Either way- I totally get your point. I'm glad you did it and I'm glad you're writing about it. Travel educates, and above all it teaches us both grace and humility.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful responses Julia! I appreciate conversations such as these so much! We're always learning and I love learning from others. It's so helpful when people share their different experiences as you do!
I agree re: age and I'm glad you brought that up. That also steers us because of healthcare and where we may want to age out and eventually expire!
But I think you're like me in that you're going to go down kicking LOL.
I look at some people in their 80's who are thriving and others who are homebound. And it doesn't just come down to one thing... It's not just genetics or food or exercise. It's also about having a positive and curious outlook on life and not being too afraid to take a chance.
I'm not saying this is true for everyone 100% but it is for many people I know.
I know one person who is 86 and afraid to leave the house for fear they'll get sick which keeps their immunity low so they get sick a lot. They also don't exercise because they're in pain, but the lack of exercise keeps them in pain... a viscous cycle.
I know another person who is 92 with a joie de vivre I've rarely seen. Until recently they were traveling full time.
I also had a patient once who was quite infirm due to some specific issues. He couldn't travel much, he could barely walk but he was the happiest and most positive person I've ever met.
We have one life and it's extremely short. I feel we need to live life to it's fullest, whatever that may be for us.
Great piece. We had hoped to move abroad in retirement, life threw a curve ball. Looking now at Portugal based on acquaintances move there. Working out medical system/health care as husband has TBI, so I am in charge of all health care issues. Thank you for all the information, I will be doing a deep dive into the various articles to get all the research done that I can. Hoping to do a visit next January to get a feel for the area.
Great summary, Kimberly, thanks for posting it. Our family keeps running into roadblocks, because there are disabilities that exclude us from entry to most countries, especially in the EU. I totally understand why, but we're pretty damn worried. If there are any non-profits or sites you know of that help disabled folks relocate, I'd love to hear about them. Thanks!
Hi Deb! Thank you so much for your comment and for bringing this to my (and others) attention! I feel like a heel for not even thinking about this!
While it's not my specialty and I haven't done research on this yet, a preliminary ask to ChatGPT (which may be completely wrong) shows this overall (but can provide information on s specific country)...
Focus: MIUSA empowers people with disabilities around the world to achieve their human rights through international exchange and travel. They offer resources and guidance for disabled individuals who want to study, work, or volunteer abroad.
Services:
Resources for accessible international travel.
Information on disability rights and accommodations abroad.
Focus: Disabled World is an online resource providing information about disability-related topics, including travel, relocation, and accessibility in different countries.
Services:
Guidance on accessible travel and relocation.
Information about disability rights and support systems in various nations.
Articles and tips for disabled individuals considering moving abroad.
Focus: Access Earth provides a community-driven platform that offers accessibility reviews for places around the world, helping individuals plan moves or travel abroad with accessibility in mind.
Services:
Reviews and ratings of accessible locations worldwide.
Community recommendations for accessible housing and infrastructure.
Focus: HI is a global organization that supports people with disabilities by promoting inclusion and providing resources. While focused on humanitarian aid, they may offer insights into international disability rights and support systems.
Services:
Advocacy for disability rights globally.
Resources for living abroad with a disability.
Support for navigating accessibility in different countries.
Focus: AbleThrive is a platform that connects people with disabilities and their families to resources that help them thrive, including information about accessible travel and living abroad.
Services:
Guidance on relocating or traveling internationally.
Stories and advice from people with disabilities who have moved or traveled abroad.
Tips for navigating accessibility and accommodations.
Tips for Moving Abroad as a Disabled Person:
Research Accessibility Laws and Services in Your Destination Country
Look into disability rights, healthcare, and accessibility infrastructure in the country you plan to move to. Countries like Canada, Australia, and many in the EU have strong disability protections.
Contact Local Disability Advocacy Organizations
Many countries have local disability non-profits or advocacy groups that can help you navigate the process and access resources upon arrival.
Seek Support from Global Communities
Online communities like Facebook groups, Reddit forums (e.g., r/travelingwhiledisabled), and expat organizations can connect you with others who have experience moving abroad with a disability.
Explore Government or International Programs
Some governments or international organizations (e.g., UN agencies) offer programs for individuals with disabilities, including relocation assistance or grants for studying/working abroad.
I'm planning on heading to Mexico. I speak Spanish fluently, have dual citizenship (my wife and kids will have it soon as well), and I have strong family ties there. But, with the current regime looking to go after the cartels, is it even going to be safe to live in Mexico? I'm former military and am familiar with the military's tactics in going after insurgent groups and the way I see it, there is going to be a lot of collateral damage.
Hi, I can't answer that of course but I assume it depends on where in Mexico. Places where expat flock or smaller areas may be safer. I know a lot of people who are living there now and they love it.
I think the current regime is busy dismantling the US first but again... I know nothing!
You're ahead of the curve being former military, speaking Spanish and having dual citizenship!!!
Wow, this particular article seems to be getting the same amount of hate that my first article in the series received. So for all you haters out there, here’s a reminder, that your hate fuels me and shows me that I am doing the right thing. Plus, it really helps with the algorithms so bring it on!!! 🥰😍🥰 https://substack.com/@expatonabudget/note/c-90464631
To each their own, but I’m not giving up my country because these evil incompetents want me to. Resist!
Hi Amy, that’s awesome! And now you know, my articles aren’t for you :) BTW: I did not leave because of the authoritarian fascists. I left in 2022 because I could no longer afford to live in America, I never felt safe there and the healthcare (especially for the aged, which I’m quickly heading into) was horrendous. Yes, please do resist! I thank you for doing so!!
😉 Just had to throw it out there for the undecideds. Thankfully although I’m on the far side of 70 my health is good. And I’ve got 3 adult children who aren’t going anywhere. Just to be on the safe side, my husband is looking into Polish citizenship (his father left from there after hiding in forests during WW II)!
Oh wow! Thank you for sharing!!!
This makes me sad. There are plenty of people who can’t afford to leave. Instead of leaving shouldn’t you stay and fight for what’s right?
Hi Brandi, everyone gets to do what feels right for them!!! I left in 2022 because that's what was right for me :) And that's why I write these articles, for people who want to leave for whatever reason. I wanted to leave for over 10 years before I did. People who want to stay and fight, should definitely do that. I would never tell anyone to leave if they want to stay, nor do I promote that.
As for not being able to afford to leave... If you read my articles you'll see that people can get work online, earn as little $500 a month, leave and live abroad if that's what they want!!!
If my articles make you sad, I encourage you to find another writer who more aligns with your values.
All the best! KA
America is about freedom. Not loyalty.
We shouldn’t BE in this situation, but we’ve been distracted in their algorithms while they hack away at our Constitution that was supposed to protect us from this. The window is closing, and we should know what our options are. We should have access to information so we can make intelligent decisions. We should be able to decide for ourselves how we keep our freedom.
Did you know:
Research shows that 3.5% of the population striking ensures serious political change.
281,566 people have signed The General Strike card. 10,718,434 more signatures are needed. That’s a LOT of signatures before the US is ready to act. Hitler dismantled Democracy in 53 days. We are on day 50.
https://generalstrikeus.com/strikecard
It really is terrifying Lisa, I passed on this information, thank you for sharing!!
Thank you for taking the time to highlight resources for marginalized folks. I’m planning to visit Mexico this summer in hopes of moving there next year (or sooner, given this current administration).
Hi Shadra, thank you so much for your comment!! I'm really trying to include resources for all, especially marginalized people. I love that you're going to visit Mexico, it's a fantastic place to move!!! And yes, the sooner the better IMO too!!!
Wow!! How generous... will check. Want to move yesterday. But my husband is suffering from Vascular Dementia. I's already starting to investigate and my pro-con list. Your post and resources are great. Will buy you a coffee. Thanks!!!
Hi, I'm so sorry to hear about your husband!! I think it's a good plan to be researching now and write your pro-con list!!! Dreaming and planning some of the best parts of the move :) Thank you so much for the coffee donation!!!!
De nada
Thank you for this. My wife and I are interested in Portugal as well. What region did you end up choosing? Rental options? Appreciate this informative post.
Hi Richard, I'm in Porto, the second largest city in Portugal in the "colder" north. Rents have quadrupled in the past 4 years (seriously) but are still significantly less than they are in California. You can look on Idealista (app or online) to get an idea but if you see something that's too good to be true, it probably is! If you're looking at purchasing, a lot of the houses on Idealista are using fake AI photos but they're really tear downs!
I feel like this article is missing the hardest part -- how to get paid abroad. I don't have a fully remote job that lets me work from anywhere, don't have tons of passive income paying me a living wage, work in an industry that typically doesn't allow fully remote like software, and how does one even go about trying to get a job in a foreign country?
I am the main breadwinner for a family of 5 so I can't just leave without a solid plan for stable income.
Hi Cat, I talk about earning in this article here: https://open.substack.com/pub/expatonabudget/p/how-do-i-earn-while-living-abroad?r=9fb7x&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
But as the breadwinner for a family of five, that's extremely challenging. If you want to go, you could look at some non-alternative ways to make it happen instead. I know one family of five who travels the world (first the US, then Europe) in a van (links below). Sacrifices (of comfort as you know it now and/or spending habits...) will have to be made.
Depending on the ages of your 3 kids, you could also look into work exchanges like Workaway or Woofing where you exchange work (which can be childcare, animal care, gardening, teaching English, etc.) for room and board.
Or--you may have to figure out how to earn for 5 people online and work toward that for the next year or two.
I wish you all the best!!
Here are 2 families of 5 traveling in a van:
https://youtu.be/pzdyVGismMY?si=Kg90uPjMaKk6nHuE
https://youtu.be/ss5ZSgYaeZw?si=LbWEQ56EgLbXBSYf
What kind of info do you have about sending Social security checks overseas. Couldn't find it on Wise. Do you need to keep a US bank and then transfer.? Nightmare would be if Trump stopped payments going overseas Thinking about Greece as I know some people there.
Hi John, my friend who lives here overseas has her social security deposited directly into her account here, she no longer has an account in the US. I don't know any more than that but a quick search found this: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10137.pdf and this: https://www.ssa.gov/international/payments_outsideUS.html ---I love Greece, that's a fantastic option!! I wonder if you can have your checks or direct deposit go to someone you trust in the US who can then send you the money. Or if you keep a bank account in the US you can just have it deposited directly there and transfer it yourself.
So proud of you - as always - for being such an inspiration. I have the life I do now primarily from your support of my breaking away from the US and from you leading by example! 🥰
AWWWWWWWWWW, I love you so much!!! I can't wait until we're in the same country again so we can celebrate all our WINS!
Agreed my dear friend! ❤️
Being a Canadian, I would like to invite American medical professionals, teachers, child-care specialists and any other pro looking for a way out to come to Canada and live here. We could use your varied expertise in our country. Living here will take some adjustment, but not as much as you might think, and you will be appreciated more than you are in your own country.
THANK YOU DARREN!!!!!! I'm an acupuncturist and teacher!! I love Canada!!!!
I hope others are able to move there 🥰🥰🥰🥰
I did scan this, Kimberly Anne. You offer a lot of good ideas. That said, from where I sit, absolutely NOTHING beats spending a really good chunk of time in your potential country, not on vacay, but seriously interviewing people who have been there for years and years and years. There is no community so absolutely convinced of their utter expertise about all things expat as those who are still in the one to two-year honey moon period. I've seen it all over the world in some 47 countries and I have indeed lived as an expat. I am currently exploring Ecuador, and am also writing about the investigation, but I am concentrating on the small print and what people simply do not understand about such a profoundly difficult move, especially if they are retirees. Sure there are better places to live, but what about end of life care? What about dying in a foreign country? What about moving as a couple and your husband dies three months later? What about what about what about? If you're in your thirties, these things simply don't land on the radar. For those of us well past sixty, and I'm 72, they are incredibly important. Lots of great ideas and resources here. That said I heartily encourage people to spend serious, serious time in their target country. And most of it speaking with expats with more than a decade of experience living there. Those are the folks you can tell you the ropes, the problems and challenges, lay out the cultural issues and they have the networks. American imperialism does not play well overseas, and our independence can be incredibly isolating. Thanks for a great piece.
Hi Julia! Thank you so much for your comment and insights, they are extremely helpful!
I had never been to Portugal before moving here because I couldn't afford a scouting trip.
I understand what you're saying but I have never, in my life, had a honeymoon period. I know people report having that for different things (when they first enter recovery for example or move to a new country...) but not for me. My first year here was tremendously difficult. My sister, as well, had a horrible first 2 years when she moved to France.
I think it's very important to look ahead re: aging and dying in another country. As I spoke about in my healthcare article, I never even knew that good (or preventative) healthcare even existed before moving here.
Re: speaking with expats who have lived in specific countries for a long time. I found that to be a very mixed bag. There are many negative people who brought their negativity with them (akin to: wherever you go, there you are) so in my experience people have to be vetted. I talked with an expat in PV Mexico once (as an example) who hated everything and complained incessantly for an hour. If someone were to listen to him, they would think PV was a horrible place to live. But in truth, anywhere this particular expat goes, is going to be horrible for him. Then I spoke to another expat who loved living there. I'm just using this as an example because personally, if I had listened to what others thought, or wanted, or their experiences, I never would have left America.
I think that, in the end, everyone has to find their own way and do what's right for them!
What's right for you will absolutely resonate with many people, but not all. And the same goes for the way I did it.
If I hadn't had a dying dog and an overbearing/controlling family I would have done things very differently. I would have done the Schengen Shuffle to see where I wanted to settle in Europe before settling but the way I did it was the best option for me at the time.
I love that you're exploring Ecuador and look forward to reading about your experiences there!
Thanks, Kimberly. To your response: any and all interviews with expats might wisely be seen as nothing more than information gathering. The foolish assume that if person A loves it, they will, or if Person B hates it, so will they. As a journalist who does her research, the way I've approached it has been to get onto the FB expat pages and watch. People swiftly reveal their stances, and what you need to do is keep a distance while seeing what people discuss and where their value systems lie. I'm surprised that you say that if you'd listened to others you'd never have left America. Why would you give that much power to others' experiences? It's just information, and to be fair, if you interview people who have lived in a country for more than five years at least, those are where you get the solid experiences of folks who have evolved past the touristy happy first few years. They've settled in, made mistakes, had big issues, nearly left and decided to stay anyway. That is where the real value lies. I've just spent more than three weeks in Ecuador doing just that, especially spending time with people who share my value set. This where most folks make the biggest mistakes, they don't look at the expat stories through their own value lens. I understand your point. It may well be that we see this differently because I am extremely well-traveled (47 countries and many many years). You learn to ask very different questions- and especially this, for what it's worth: the least happy people have zero travel experience. They haven't been inconvenienced, they have no idea who the rest of the world lives, and much of their resentment stems from American exceptionalism and imperialism attitudes. When we release those assumptions and spend more time being open, soft and curious about the world, it unfolds in front of in glorious ways. I've met people in Ecuador who hate everything because it's not America. To make such a big move, sell everything and head overseas is a massive move, and if it doesn't work it's devastating. I recognize that we all do this differently, but the one biggest piece of advice that has cropped up again and again and again from all my interviews with expats, visa lawyers and all the professionals I've just met: do your research. Go check out the country and people beforehand. You say you didn't have the money- understandable. But think of it this way: people LOVE to say they don't have time to exercise to get healthy, right? But they sure have time to spend endless hours with doctors with a body that has fallen apart because they didn't have time earlier in life. The same goes for such a profoundly life-changing move especially late in life. If we can't make time to do the basic research up front, imagine the impact on us financially if we make the move and discover that the new place doesn't fit our value set. I hear your points, and while yes we all do things our way, I stand by the argument to do your due diligence first. The best travel writers who write about living overseas, and the top one is a close friend of mine, Tim Leffel, will underscore the critical need for advance work. As for writing about this, l've already published multiple articles on Substack. I don't put links to my writing on other people's threads, I consider it rude as this is your geography, Kim. But you can find my work but clicking my profile.
Hi Julia, thank you so much for your insights and knowledge! I did exactly what you suggest against LOL!!! And thankfully, for me, it's worked out: so far.
But of course, I understand what you're saying and I kind of wish I had done the digital nomad Schengen Shuffle first.
I do love slow travel and feel that even a month in a country isn't enough (for me) but three months sounds perfect.
I plan to invest in a van in the next year or two so I can do just that and spend more exploring other European countries.
Sadly, I really didn't have the funds to scout Portugal first. I had just enough to either move here or stay living in a van full-time in the US (which is what I did for a year).
Yes, I know who Tim Leffel is and I absolutely value the experiences of others who know so much more than I do (and also those who have had different experiences).
I do think there's more than one, two, three or even four ways to do things but I do agree re: doing your due diligence.
I spent ten years researching places to move abroad and three years researching Portugal before I moved here. I agree with what you're saying about seeing who in the FB groups are just gripers and who have real things to say.
The reason I wouldn't have moved if I'd listened to others is because I had almost no one in my life who was supportive of my move, including most (not all) of my family and almost all of my "friends". It finally got the point where I had to stop talking about it with people, and just do it. I like to mention this because I'm sure I'm not alone. While I obviously did it anyway, many others may not. It's extra hard to make a huge life change when you have no support.
I will absolutely look at your articles and I'd even be overjoyed if you wanted to share them here 😃
Thank you again, I'm so happy you have taken your time to comment!!!
I am so very sorry that you had people in your life who didn't support your move. First it's brave as hell to do such a thing, Kim. Tim writes about how everybody but everybody has reasons why you should stay. I get it too. If I don't make this move, and I'm still up in the air about it, the reasons will be mine, just as yours are. To your point I suspect that those who are much younger- and I also did the expat thing in my early thirties- have far less to lose. My cohort is at the end of their runway, sixty and above usually, so they have far more to lose if it doesn't work out. They're also more often set in their ways and less willing to make the necessary sacrifices and live with the inevitable discomforts. Those don't bother me- that's part of life, and to my mind part of what makes such a big move so extraordinary. That said if you're in your first third, taking the leap without exploration is a lot easier to survive than at 65 or 80. So my lean in that direction is likely biased because of age to be fair to us both. Either way- I totally get your point. I'm glad you did it and I'm glad you're writing about it. Travel educates, and above all it teaches us both grace and humility.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful responses Julia! I appreciate conversations such as these so much! We're always learning and I love learning from others. It's so helpful when people share their different experiences as you do!
I agree re: age and I'm glad you brought that up. That also steers us because of healthcare and where we may want to age out and eventually expire!
But I think you're like me in that you're going to go down kicking LOL.
I look at some people in their 80's who are thriving and others who are homebound. And it doesn't just come down to one thing... It's not just genetics or food or exercise. It's also about having a positive and curious outlook on life and not being too afraid to take a chance.
I'm not saying this is true for everyone 100% but it is for many people I know.
I know one person who is 86 and afraid to leave the house for fear they'll get sick which keeps their immunity low so they get sick a lot. They also don't exercise because they're in pain, but the lack of exercise keeps them in pain... a viscous cycle.
I know another person who is 92 with a joie de vivre I've rarely seen. Until recently they were traveling full time.
I also had a patient once who was quite infirm due to some specific issues. He couldn't travel much, he could barely walk but he was the happiest and most positive person I've ever met.
We have one life and it's extremely short. I feel we need to live life to it's fullest, whatever that may be for us.
Oh geez, this got way too philosophical!!
Well, you're underscoring why I write about aging well! So much of it is a combination of attitude and choice.
Great piece. We had hoped to move abroad in retirement, life threw a curve ball. Looking now at Portugal based on acquaintances move there. Working out medical system/health care as husband has TBI, so I am in charge of all health care issues. Thank you for all the information, I will be doing a deep dive into the various articles to get all the research done that I can. Hoping to do a visit next January to get a feel for the area.
Hi Rebecca, Thank you so much for your comment!
I hope you can indeed move abroad, especially for the superior healthcare most places in Europe have to offer.
I'm so sorry to hear of your husbands TBI and hope he recovers soon (as much as he possibly can)!
I do advocate for the must vulnerable people to go to safety and also for scientists to be able to keep working.
Agreed!
Thank you for sharing! Valuable information!💙
Aww thank you so much Chaz! Happy to hear you're finding it helpful :)
Great summary, Kimberly, thanks for posting it. Our family keeps running into roadblocks, because there are disabilities that exclude us from entry to most countries, especially in the EU. I totally understand why, but we're pretty damn worried. If there are any non-profits or sites you know of that help disabled folks relocate, I'd love to hear about them. Thanks!
Hi Deb! Thank you so much for your comment and for bringing this to my (and others) attention! I feel like a heel for not even thinking about this!
While it's not my specialty and I haven't done research on this yet, a preliminary ask to ChatGPT (which may be completely wrong) shows this overall (but can provide information on s specific country)...
1. Mobility International USA (MIUSA)
Website: www.miusa.org
Focus: MIUSA empowers people with disabilities around the world to achieve their human rights through international exchange and travel. They offer resources and guidance for disabled individuals who want to study, work, or volunteer abroad.
Services:
Resources for accessible international travel.
Information on disability rights and accommodations abroad.
Networking opportunities for disabled travelers.
2. Disabled World
Website: www.disabled-world.com
Focus: Disabled World is an online resource providing information about disability-related topics, including travel, relocation, and accessibility in different countries.
Services:
Guidance on accessible travel and relocation.
Information about disability rights and support systems in various nations.
Articles and tips for disabled individuals considering moving abroad.
3. Access Earth
Website: www.access.earth
Focus: Access Earth provides a community-driven platform that offers accessibility reviews for places around the world, helping individuals plan moves or travel abroad with accessibility in mind.
Services:
Reviews and ratings of accessible locations worldwide.
Community recommendations for accessible housing and infrastructure.
4. Handicap International (HI)
Website: www.hi.org
Focus: HI is a global organization that supports people with disabilities by promoting inclusion and providing resources. While focused on humanitarian aid, they may offer insights into international disability rights and support systems.
Services:
Advocacy for disability rights globally.
Resources for living abroad with a disability.
Support for navigating accessibility in different countries.
5. AbleThrive
Website: www.ablethrive.com
Focus: AbleThrive is a platform that connects people with disabilities and their families to resources that help them thrive, including information about accessible travel and living abroad.
Services:
Guidance on relocating or traveling internationally.
Stories and advice from people with disabilities who have moved or traveled abroad.
Tips for navigating accessibility and accommodations.
Tips for Moving Abroad as a Disabled Person:
Research Accessibility Laws and Services in Your Destination Country
Look into disability rights, healthcare, and accessibility infrastructure in the country you plan to move to. Countries like Canada, Australia, and many in the EU have strong disability protections.
Contact Local Disability Advocacy Organizations
Many countries have local disability non-profits or advocacy groups that can help you navigate the process and access resources upon arrival.
Seek Support from Global Communities
Online communities like Facebook groups, Reddit forums (e.g., r/travelingwhiledisabled), and expat organizations can connect you with others who have experience moving abroad with a disability.
Explore Government or International Programs
Some governments or international organizations (e.g., UN agencies) offer programs for individuals with disabilities, including relocation assistance or grants for studying/working abroad.
I'm already planning and am ready to go. But are we even going to be safer in another country?
Hello! Thank you for your comment and congratulations on your planning! It depends on how you define safety and also which country! Please check out my article on Safety here :) https://expatonabudget.substack.com/p/leaving-the-usa-the-best-decision?r=9fb7x
I'm planning on heading to Mexico. I speak Spanish fluently, have dual citizenship (my wife and kids will have it soon as well), and I have strong family ties there. But, with the current regime looking to go after the cartels, is it even going to be safe to live in Mexico? I'm former military and am familiar with the military's tactics in going after insurgent groups and the way I see it, there is going to be a lot of collateral damage.
Hi, I can't answer that of course but I assume it depends on where in Mexico. Places where expat flock or smaller areas may be safer. I know a lot of people who are living there now and they love it.
I think the current regime is busy dismantling the US first but again... I know nothing!
You're ahead of the curve being former military, speaking Spanish and having dual citizenship!!!