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join us, Jim and Rita Santos, as we unfold the map to a future unchained from the conventional moorings of a stationary home. Discover how we're securing our retirement savings by side-stepping the unpredictable real estate market and why High Yield Savings Accounts (HYSAs) have caught our eye. We're also unpacking the potential of banking in Uruguay, the financial haven often compared to Switzerland, and how it might just be the safe harbor for our hard-earned funds. Our conversation with Dr. Mark Teuten, a attorney who helps with Uruguayan banking for expats, throws light on managing money in a foreign land.

Listen in as we navigate the nuances of setting up shop with Uruguayan banks, particularly for Americans entangled in the web of international regulations like FATCA. We lay bare the timelines and trials involved in starting anew with a foreign account and how declaring our intentions to reside in Uruguay could smooth the way. Dr. Teuten's insights complement our quest for a diversified investment portfolio, as we consider tax-free government bonds and the shrewd play of investing across various currencies. This episode is not just a financial briefing; it's a beacon for those seeking a robust strategy for safeguarding their future in the face of global uncertainties.

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Embark on a voyage of discovery with the intrepid Maya and Dave, whose leap from the classroom to the vast world has led to a retirement brimming with purpose and adventure. As former educators, their tale is one of financial foresight and embracing a minimalist lifestyle to fuel a passion for exploration. In this episode, they take us through their colorful journey, from the heart-warming reasons behind their initial move to Nepal, to the charm of  Ecuador's enchanting city of Cuenca. Their story paints a vivid picture of life's boundless possibilities post-retirement, as they share the intricacies of managing their stateside property and why their past summer travels as teachers laid the foundation for their love of voyaging.

Discover the heartwarming impact of spreading kindness without borders, as Maya and Dave share their inspiring work with children around the world. Their Kindness Clubs initiative has become a cornerstone of compassion, empowering youth to build a more empathetic future. The clubs' anniversaries are not just a date on the calendar, but a celebration of the tireless efforts of students and educators alike working to foster a world where kindness prevails. The couple's commitment to service continues in their current home, as they join forces with local expats to feed those in need—a true testament to their dedication to making the world a better place one act of kindness at a time.

Lean in as we savor the delights of 'slow travel' with Maya and Dave, who reveal how taking the path less rushed has enriched their souls. They recount the joy found in the laughter of new friends, the spice of local cuisines, and the magic in every unexpected stay—from the serene beaches of Bali to the potential of a future in New Zealand. Their tales are a masterclass in adaptability, showcasing how they transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. As they share their strategies for navigating the unpredictability of the nomadic lifestyle, they offer nuggets of wisdom for aspiring globetrotters. Join us and be inspired by a couple who prove that retirement can indeed be the beginning of life's grandest adventure.

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Embark with us, Jim and Rita Santos, on a reflective journey through our time on the sun-kissed shores of Salinas, Ecuador. Now, with suitcases almost packed, we're casting an eager gaze towards Mexico. We sit down with Kimberly Kagan-Campbell, our seasoned real estate guide from our Ecuadorian days, to delve into the shifting sands of safety and lifestyle in a place where the air is dense with sea salt and the government's firm stand against cartels. Our conversation spans the evolving tapestry of local haunts, from the buzz around a fresh burger hotspot to the unwavering charm of time-honored eateries, and we ponder the future of slow travel and distant property management—a lifestyle mosaic we're piecing together one adventure at a time.

Join us as we navigate the nuanced rental market of Salinas, contrasting the stability and choices we discovered against our Panamanian experiences. The real meat of our chat, however, is the intricate dance of managing rentals from afar and the cultural quirks that color our interactions with the warm-hearted locals. We'll also pull back the curtain on the latest real estate developments, questioning the impact of looming high-rises on the idyllic coastal skyline of Salinas. Whether you're a seasoned expat, a real estate aficionado, or simply a curious soul bitten by the wanderlust bug, our tales of international living and investment will serve up a hearty portion of insight and experience.

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Escape with us to the tropical allure of Playa Coronado as Panama enthusiast Diane Maxwell shares the hidden gems and candid realities of expat life in this sun-kissed paradise. Diane, with her wealth of knowledge and decade plus of Panamanian adventures, reveals why this country's charm is more than just its postcard-perfect beaches, offering a no-holds-barred look at the unexpected day-to-day life that awaits those seeking their own tropical haven.

This episode isn't just a narrative of sandy shores; it's a comprehensive guide for anyone tempted by the expat dream. We journey from the bustling streets of Panama City to the tranquil beaches of San Blas, discussing how Panama's diverse tapestry stands up against other Latin American jewels like Ecuador. Diane opens up about the practicalities of settling down in Playa Coronado, from navigating the property market to embracing the 'manana' culture. Plus, she shares the serenity of her mountainside home, providing inspiration and essential advice for future expats. Whether you're contemplating a move or simply love a great story, our conversation is an invitation to explore the nuanced symphony of living abroad in Panama.

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to trade a stationary life for one of global exploration? Join us as we chat with Kevin and Bonita, a couple who've made the leap from the comfort of their US home to the exhilarating uncertainties of backpacking the world. Their story begins with heartfelt goodbyes to their possessions, a journey kickstarted in the vibrant city of Barcelona, and the myriad adjustments from downsizing to decoding new languages. Travel alongside us as we navigate the emotional landscape of embracing the nomadic lifestyle, examining the blend of excitement and trepidation that transforms ordinary lives into extraordinary tales.

Our episode takes a deep look at the strategies and serendipities of slow travel, as we discuss visa intricacies and the charm of lesser-known destinations like Albania and Tbilisi. Kevin and Bonita open up about Soviet-influenced locales, offering a fresh perspective on places that history books can't capture. We also touch on how we keep our creative flames burning bright through writing, proving that a life in transit can harmonize with artistic pursuits. So, if you've been stifling your wanderlust or considering penning your own adventure, this episode offers both anecdotal wisdom and practical insights.

Lastly, we don't shy away from the nuts and bolts of living on the road, from maneuvering healthcare abroad to maintaining family bonds across continents. Revelations about the affordability and quality of medical care in countries like Romania serve as food for thought for those contemplating retiree travel. The journey concludes with an invitation for you to share your slow travel stories and a reminder of the richness that diverse experiences bring to life. After all, it's not just about the miles we cover, but the memories we create and the lessons we share. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to live without borders.

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Join our escapade through the vibrant life of Panama as we, alongside seasoned expats Lesa Wollman, Stu Singleton, and their adventurous dog Ziggy, unveil the realities of forging a new path in the historic Casco Viejo. From the bustling streets of Panama City to the serene shores of Playa Coronado, we share the rhythm of everyday life in this tropical paradise. Lesa and Stu's stories weave through the rich tapestry of cultural adjustments, the comforting familiarity of the US dollar, and the warm welcome from local Panamanians, painting a vivid picture of expat life that's as diverse as it is delightful.

The pulse of Panama beats to the drum of festivals and fireworks, and in this episode, we immerse ourselves in the exuberant spirit of Carnival. Embrace the joy of spontaneous lunches that lead to unexpected friendships, and get lost in the thrill of being impromptu tour guides in a land where every corner holds a new surprise. We dissect the contrast between the vivacious Panama City nightlife and the hushed haven of Coronado, unraveling the allure that draws people to each unique locale. Discover how a car-free lifestyle promotes a healthier, more engaging way of life, and get the inside scoop on navigating the healthcare system with ease and accessibility.

As we prepare to say goodbye to our home and ready ourselves for Mexico, Stu and Lesa chime in with insights from their recent neighborhood change, discussing the quest for community and cultural authenticity in the expat experience. Whether you're contemplating your own leap into the nomadic lifestyle, or simply savoring the tales of those who have, this episode is a treasure chest of wisdom and wonder. So, come along for the ride and don't forget to check out my written adventures on Amazon, as we continue to chart the uncharted and celebrate the beauty of roaming the world.

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Embarking on a life less ordinary, Rita and I, Jim Santos, peeled back the layers of traditional retirement to reveal a tapestry woven with adventure and discovery. Our tale begins with shared grief, leading to a partnership rooted in the love of exploration. When the familiar confines of the United States seemed too small, we chased a dream to Ecuador—a journey that reshaped our golden years. Now, we pull back the curtain on the decision that sparked our move, the realities of adopting a new homeland, and the unexpected career twist that saw me become an Ecuador Coastal Correspondent.

The transformation went beyond a change of scenery; it was a metamorphosis of health, family ties, and quality of life. Our tale wends through the challenges and triumphs of adjusting to life in South America, from the steep learning curve of a new language to the ripple effects of our daring choice on our wellbeing. Weaving Rita's insights into the narrative, the episode reveals how the leap into the unknown can pay dividends in living more fully. This is a story about more than retirement—it's about reinventing life itself.

Our journey didn't stop at Ecuador's borders. As wanderlust beckoned, we faced the world's unpredictability with resilience, from navigating a global pandemic to personal loss, always with an eye on the horizon. The road led us through financial planning for continuous exploration, reconnecting with our heritage in the British Isles, and plotting a travel odyssey that balances the thirst for adventure with life's practicalities. Join us as we share the laughter, the lessons, and the boundless excitement of living life without a fixed address.

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Have you ever woken up one day and decided to flip your life upside down for an adventure abroad? Well, that's exactly what we, Jim and Rita Santos, did, and we're taking you along for the ride. Our journey from selling our home in Knoxville to budgeting in the sunny climes of Panama is no ordinary tale. We confront the unexpected—like a simple water leak turning into a full-blown disaster, all while living the expat dream. It's a candid look at the realities of retiring to a foreign land, with all its perks and quirks.

Safety isn't just a buzzword; it's a patchwork of cultural context and media influence we often overlook. With a decade of travel writing and insights from my book, "Living Abroad: Challenging the Myths of Expat Life," I peel back layers of fear to examine what safety truly means across different borders. You'll hear about our brush with petty theft in South America and how blending in isn't just about fashion—it's a survival strategy. By embracing local customs and staying savvy, we navigate through common tourist scams and share essential tips for keeping your guard up, whether you're in bustling Guayaquil or strolling through your neighborhood.

Before we part ways, consider this an open invitation to walk with us beyond the podcast. Venture over to my author page, where the conversation on slow travel and life's unexpected turns continues. We're here to share the wisdom gleaned from streets less traveled and to answer the burning questions you might have about taking the road less taken. So until our next escapade, keep your passport close and your sense of adventure closer. Safe travels, friends!

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Have you ever wondered if the expat life is as glamorous as it sounds or if it's just a series of unexpected trials? Rita and I are here to give you the unvarnished truth, sharing our latest escapades in Panama, where the beauty of Playa Coronado meets the frustration of a broken air conditioner. It's a tale of resilience, as we balance the arduous process of selling our home back in the States with the daily grind of making it in a foreign land. Strap in for a candid recount of our Airbnb mishaps and triumphs that might just have you questioning our sanity.

But it's not all about the struggles; there's a silver lining in the form of travel tech that's changing the game for nomads like us. Imagine seamlessly hopping from country to country, staying connected without a hitch – that's the magic of eSIMs. In this episode, we also explore the communication lifeline that is WhatsApp, and I'll let you in on the most effective travel apps that have revolutionized our journeys. From deciphering foreign menus with Google Translate's camera to savvy booking hacks that save us time and money, these tools have become essential in our travel toolkit. Tune in and elevate your travel savvy to pro level with our hard-earned insights.

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Embark with Rita and me on a remarkable expedition, as we reveal the secrets of stretching our retirement dollars in sun-kissed locales. Our latest podcast episode whisks you away to the coasts of Playa Coronado in Panama and then to the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, where a new visitor policy could signal our next home. Special guests Roy McGinnis and Julie Tallman, veterans of international living, join the conversation, sharing their first-hand impressions of Costa Rica's inviting climate and lifestyle—painting a vivid picture for potential expats like us.

Our travels are not just about the destinations, but the journey in between, and in this chapter, the roads of Costa Rica lead us to unexpected delights. We discuss how a balance between tourist attractions and local culture can enhance the expat experience, reminiscing about the tranquility of a spa day in Fortuna that epitomizes the 'Pura Vida' way of life. There's something about the Costa Rican atmosphere that invites one to slow down and savor the moment, a lesson we're learning to incorporate into our own retirement.

As we ponder the future, we compare the charms and challenges of retiring in Costa Rica versus Mexico, including how to relocate horses across borders. But retirement abroad isn't just about the logistics; it's about 'rewirement', embracing the complexity and excitement of this profound life change. Stay tuned to our unfolding adventure, filled with practical advice, heartfelt reflections, and the joy of discovering how life abroad can redefine the golden years of retirement.

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