Summary

Climate change is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a retirement destination, especially for the LGBTQ community seeking both safety and inclusivity. In this engaging episode of "Where Do Gays Retire?" host Mark Goldstein explores various U.S. cities that stand out for their proactive approaches to climate change mitigation. From the eco-conscious vibes of Portland, Oregon, to the wind-powered ambitions of Chicago, Illinois, each city is committed to sustainability while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ community. Mark also highlights affordable cities with minimal climate risks, such as Madison, Wisconsin, and Burlington, Vermont, where retirees can enjoy a progressive lifestyle without breaking the bank. For those considering international options, cities like Lisbon, Portugal, and Auckland, New Zealand, emerge as top contenders, offering charm, affordability, and vibrant LGBTQ scenes without the looming threat of climate chaos.

Show Notes

Exploring the intersection of climate change and retirement, Mark Goldstein delves into the best cities for LGBTQ retirees seeking sustainable and inclusive environments. Focusing on proactive and affordable cities, the episode covers key factors like municipal equality scores and climate resilience. Cities like Austin and Chicago are praised for their green initiatives, while Madison and Burlington are noted for their affordability and safety from climate extremes. The narrative offers a blend of humor and practical advice, emphasizing the importance of choosing a city that aligns with one's values and is resilient against climate challenges. The episode concludes with a look at international destinations, providing a global perspective on retirement options.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheredogaysretire.com

Summary/Intro

The podcast episode delves into the experiences of LGBTQ retirees living in Malaga and Valencia, Spain, highlighting the allure of these Spanish cities for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive retirement destination. Host Mark Goldstein engages with guests Steve Aronberg from Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli from Valencia, who share insights about the climate, cost of living, healthcare, and the welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ individuals. Both cities boast a high quality of life, affordable living costs, excellent healthcare systems, and a rich cultural landscape, making them attractive options for expatriates. The discussion also touches on practical aspects such as obtaining residency, navigating Spanish bureaucracy, and the minimal crime rates, underscoring the safety and comfort of living in Spain. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode offers valuable guidance for those considering a move to these sun-soaked destinations.

Show Notes

Exploring the nuances of retirement in Spain, Mark Goldstein hosts an engaging dialogue featuring insights from Steve Aronberg in Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli in Valencia. This installment of the "Where Do Gays Retire?" podcast offers a comprehensive look at the factors influencing expatriates' choice of retirement location, from climate and geography to local culture and real estate.

Steve shares his experience of Malaga's sunny Mediterranean climate and its appeal to retirees seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle. He discusses the region's cultural richness, including its lively arts scene and historical landmarks. Dave and Jesus highlight Valencia's affordability and flat terrain, making it an ideal place for walking and cycling. They emphasize the vibrant food culture, where local markets and diverse dining options abound, offering a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.

The episode also addresses the practical aspects of living abroad, such as healthcare and language barriers, while reassuring listeners about the safety and inclusivity of both cities. Both locations are portrayed as welcoming to the LGBTQ community, with a sense of acceptance and integration into the broader society. The discussion encourages potential retirees to explore different parts of Spain to find a location that aligns with their personal and financial needs, highlighting the benefits of a slower-paced, culturally rich lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores two Spanish cities, Malaga and Valencia, as potential retirement destinations for the LGBTQ community.
• Malaga offers a sunny climate with 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an attractive place to live outdoors.
• Valencia is a flat, walkable city with a low cost of living. It is famous for its rice dishes, such as paella.
• Malaga and Valencia have vibrant LGBTQ-friendly communities and are very accepting of diversity.
• The healthcare system in Spain is affordable and accessible, with private insurance options for non-residents.
• Spain is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a lack of gun culture, providing peace of mind.

Steve Aronberg

He was born in Nuremberg, Germany. His dad was in the army and stationed there. His dad proposed to his mom, who flew over to get married. He spent all his teen years in New Bedford, MA, and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst with a degree in Business Administration.

His entire career was with the U.S. Federal government, and he spent his last 25 years working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is a strong proponent of equality and was fortunate to spend most of his working career supporting civil rights. He was also fortunate to retire at the young age of 55.

During his career, he lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area and worked in San Diego, CA, for 17+ years. He met his husband in San Diego, and they have been together for 25 years. They have been married since 2013.

They bought their home in Spain in January 2017. He is a Spanish resident and lives there full-time.

Dave Piccolo

He lived as a real estate agent in Indianapolis, Indiana, for 30 years. In July 2019, he met Jesus from Venezuela and only planned to stay for three months before moving to Spain. They got married and moved to Dallas to be closer to his mom. They lived there for just one year before moving to Fort Myers, Florida. When Hurricane Ian came through Fort Myers and destroyed most of it (luckily, their house was spared), a displaced family needed housing, so they decided to rent it. As a result, they moved back to Dallas temporarily.

The political climate in Florida under Ron DeSantis and in Texas under Greg Abbott had become so extreme that he was experiencing anxiety and a general sense of unhappiness. When he and Jesus met, they talked about moving to Spain. Their goal was to move when he retired at 65 (he was 54 then). He started perusing Idealista to get a feel for the real estate market in Valencia. He spent the next six months looking at over 1,000 properties online from Dallas. He came across a property that was the needle in the haystack. It was newly converted into a residence (previously commercial), fully renovated, bright, open, spacious, and furnished with a 200-square-foot terrace. And it was half the budget they had anticipated.

They called the realtor and had him do FaceTime so they could see the apartment and neighborhood virtually. As a realtor, he knew they could not afford to pass this up and wait another ten years. So, they purchased it without ever setting foot in Valencia! They have been there about 14 months, love it, and have no regrets!

Jesus Gallardo Bartoli

Jesus was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, where he went to college and earned his degree in Business Administration and Tourism. In 2010, he moved to Bogota, Columbia, where he owned a Venezuelan restaurant for ten years. In 2019, he visited a friend in the US and planned to live in Spain. Dave and Jesus met in Indianapolis in 2019. They planned to move to Spain when Dave retired in 2027. A series of open doors allowed them to (semi) retire to Valencia in 2023.

Steven recently retired from teaching high school math and enjoys having no responsibilities besides his family and hobbies. He has renewed his hobbies of quilting, cooking, and racquetball. He is currently ranked #3 in his age division in Washington State.

Steven moved to Seattle after graduating from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, in 1989 and met his husband in 1990. They have been together for thirty-four years. They have two adopted sons and await grandchildren, although none are imminently expected. 

Steven's community involvement is a testament to his commitment to social causes. He's an active member of their Lutheran congregation and other civic groups. His activism includes advocating for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the Lutheran Church and working to alleviate hunger and homelessness. One of his most significant achievements is helping a refugee family from Syria start a new life in British Columbia. Recently, he took on the role of regional coordinator for Gonzaga University's Lavender Alumni Network.

Steven Chapman, a retired high school math teacher, shares his experience living in Seattle. He fell in love with the city after visiting for Thanksgiving in 1988 and has lived there ever since. Seattle is known for its unique climate, with rain over extended periods rather than concentrated bursts.

The city is also surrounded by water, with Puget Sound to the west and Lake Washington to the east.

With high housing prices and rental fees, Seattle's living cost is approximately 50% higher than the national average. However, the city has a vibrant food scene and is LGBTQ-friendly, with inclusive community centers and events like Pride.

Seattle offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with symphonies, ballets, operas, art museums, and Broadway touring companies. Burlesque shows are also popular in the city. Seattle hosts the Seattle International Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in the country.

The city has a commuter-based transit system, with light rail and buses, but having a car in certain areas may be necessary.

Healthcare in Seattle is excellent, with multiple hospitals and a high number of LGBT doctors.

The state of Washington does not have an income tax, which benefits retirees, and property taxes can vary depending on the location and value of the property. Seattle has high property taxes and sales tax, which fund government services.

Crime rates vary by neighborhood, but systemic racism within the police department is a problem.

Due to high housing costs, Seattle has a significant homeless population. The city provides some services and housing options for the homeless, but it's insufficient.

Seattle is known for its laid-back culture, acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, the city experiences gloomy winters and is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

In this solo episode of Where Do Gays Retire, Mark Goldstein compares Sitges and Torremolinos, Spain, two of the most popular retirement destinations for the LGBTQ+ community. Mark covers critical aspects such as climate, cost of living, healthcare, LGBTQ+ community, transportation, walkability, arts and culture, dining, and safety. Stay tuned until the end as Mark reveals which destination is top for LGBTQ+ retirees.

#LGBTQRetirement #SitgesSpain #TorremolinosSpain #WhereDoGaysRetire #LGBTQTravel #SpainRetirement #RetireInSpain #LGBTQLife #GayRetirement

Torremolinos has a warmer climate year-round compared to Sitges

Sitges has a higher cost of living than Torremolinos

Torremolinos has better healthcare access and proximity to hospitals

Sitges has a more established and longer-standing LGBTQ+ community

Both cities offer excellent walkability and public transport options

Sitges has a more vibrant arts and culture scene, while Torremolinos is more focused on beach and nightlife

Sitges offers a diverse dining scene, while Torremolinos is better for casual, traditional meals

Both cities are generally safe but experience petty theft due to tourism

Torremolinos has better tax advantages, particularly regarding income and inheritance tax

Torremolinos is the winner!

This conversation compares Torremolinos and Sitges in Spain. Torremolinos is in the Andalusian region, while Sitges is in Catalonia. Both places have a similar climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

The cost of living is relatively high in both areas, especially for housing. Healthcare is accessible in both places, with private health insurance being standard. However, the public healthcare system in Catalonia does not cover PrEP for HIV prevention.

Overall, Torremolinos and Sitges offer a vibrant lifestyle with access to beaches, outdoor activities, and various amenities. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss healthcare, language barriers, transportation, and arts and culture in Torremolinos and Sitges.

They mention the availability of STD testing and HIV medication in Catalonia, the friendliness of the Spanish and Catalan people, the language differences between Catalan and Spanish, and the importance of meeting people halfway in terms of language.

They also talk about the transportation systems in both places, including the local trains and buses, and the ease of walking to most places.

In terms of arts and culture, they mention the presence of art galleries, museums, festivals, and theaters in Torremolinos, Sitges, Barcelona, and Malaga.

Tormelinos and Sitges are excellent destinations for food lovers, offering a variety of cuisines. Tormelinos is known for its fresh sardines grilled on swords, while Sitges provides a range of Spanish and international dishes.

Both places have a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with numerous gay bars and clubs. The communities are welcoming and accepting, making it a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Regarding residency and taxes, Spain offers retirement visas for those who can prove they have the means to support themselves. The country has a double taxation treaty with the US, allowing residents to deduct what they pay in Spain from their US taxes.

Crime rates are generally low in both Torremolinos and Sitges, and there is a strong police presence and a sense of safety.

When moving to these areas, it is recommended to join local expat and LGBTQ+ communities for support and advice.

Richard Jasicki

He just turned 65 in May! He had a Mid-Atlantic Ocean childhood in Europe and the US as a US Air Force brat with an English “Mum.” He worked many years in the UK and California before retiring at 62 and moving to Spain.

He met his life partner, Charles, in 2001 online. Their first meeting turned out to be at a wedding venue that had been canceled and opened its doors to the public—very auspicious! They married as soon as it was legal in 2014 by their pool in San Diego.

He has lived in Torremolinos on the Costa del Sol for almost two years and loves it. Their apartment has a beautiful view of the Mediterranean.

Leo Boni

They wanted a change of lifestyle. They lived in the SF Bay Area and are both tired of the high cost of living, the lack of vacation time, and not being able to shake the feeling that they could not afford to retire there. He is Italian by birth, so they first wanted to move to Italy; they chose Spain because of its weather and infrastructure. They made an exploratory trip to Barcelona and liked it but didn't fall in love with it. They did fall in love with Sitges. They moved to Barcelona first for various reasons, mainly because this was pre-pandemic, and his job required him to be in the office, located off Passeig de Gracia in BCN. When quarantine came, they took the opportunity to move to Sitges. There were several deciding factors, being on the beach, in a smaller town, with a vibrant gay and food scene. Sitges offered them the more tranquil life they were looking for. 

He is an Italian citizen, so he and his partner have the right to live and work in Spain. For Leo, the immigration process was easy; it took less than 10 minutes, but for Bill, his partner, it took over six months. 

Brent grew up in the college town of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and is the son of a teacher/school administrator (dad) and a successful real estate broker (mom). 

On a family trip to NYC when Brent was in grade school, he saw Ethel Merman in Hello, Dolly! This sparked a love of theater and eventually a move to Manhattan to pursue a career in musical theater. Brent has performed off-Broadway, in regional theaters across the US, and on cruise ships worldwide for over ten years. In the late 1990s, Brent left the theater and began working in non-profit administration, spending almost 20 years as the business manager for a Nobel laureate in a research laboratory at Rockefeller University.

A friend from his theater days introduced Brent to Asbury Park, NJ, in the early 2000s when the city changed from a gritty ghost town to a Jersey Shore Mecca for gays wanting to nab an affordable house near the beach. After many vacation trips to Asbury, Brent and his husband bought their first shore home in 2011.

Brent retired early at the end of the pandemic and started a new career in real estate, following in his mother’s footsteps. He enjoys making many new friends, as his mother did, and helping to find the perfect shore home for his clients.

Brent enjoys small-town life. Now in his third Asbury home, he lives with his husband Joe, also a former actor turned non-profit professional, and their mini-Aussiedoodle Dickens.

Summary

Brent Winborn shares his journey to Asbury Park, New Jersey, highlighting the city's transformation from a gritty ghost town to a vibrant LGBTQ+ mecca.

He describes Asbury Park's geographical overview, unique perspectives, and proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Brent also discusses the climate, which has four seasons but milder winters and longer fall periods.

He emphasizes the strong LGBTQ+ community in Asbury Park, the presence of gay bars and hotels, and the sense of community and acceptance.

Brent also provides insights into the cost of living, including home prices, rentals, utilities, and groceries. Asbury Park offers diverse housing options, from newer condos to renovated older buildings.

The vibrant cultural scene has festivals, music events, theaters, and galleries.

The restaurant scene is diverse, with options ranging from dive bar burgers to high-end dining.

Asbury Park is a walkable city, and while public transportation is limited, e-scooters and e-bikes are popular for getting around. Safety is not a major concern, and excellent healthcare facilities are nearby.

Challenges include parking availability and the need for more hotels. Overall, Asbury Park offers a unique small-town atmosphere with an urban feel.

For NJ State Tax info on Social Security, Pensions, 401K's and IRA's

Is There an E Street? Where?

E Street runs northeast through the New Jersey shore town of Belmar. According to Springsteen lore, the band took its name from the street because original keyboard player David Sancious's mother lived there and allowed the band to rehearse in her house. The titular avenue of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" is also in Belmar.

Mark DeLancey, a man of many accomplishments, is the Executive Director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter. At 61, he is a retired Marine, a prominent LGBTQ leader, a Triplet, a world record holder, an Artist, a Horror Film buff, a Theatre enthusiast, a part-time gardener, and a recovering Gen X/Boomer cusp baby.

Mark's unique perspective on life and his commitment to the LGBTQ community has landed him in Salisbury, MD, where he has retired to settle down with his fiancée Eric and his new puppy, Ash. His work keeps him active and busy as he plans the city's new pride parade while he tries to find time with family and makes new friends from all over Delmarva.

While traveling worldwide and finally settling in Maryland, his life may be considered an adventure by some, a tragedy by others, and a short trashy novel by haters. However, he is living proof that we all have a story to tell. 

Salisbury, Maryland

Mark Delancey, the executive director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter, shares his journey of moving to Salisbury and why he chose it as his new home.

Salisbury is located on the Delmarva Peninsula and offers a unique downtown area, historical district, marina, beaches, museums, and a zoo. The LGBTQ community in Salisbury is not huge, but it is diverse and accepting. Rehoboth Beach, a thriving LGBTQ community, is only 45 minutes away.

The cost of living in Salisbury is relatively affordable, with rental prices for a two-bedroom, two-bath averaging around $1,180 per month. The town has been revitalized with new developments, walking paths, and community events.

Salisbury also offers arts and culture with galleries, a museum, and regular exhibits. Salisbury, Maryland, provides a welcoming and safe community for LGBTQ individuals. The city has a growing LGBTQ population and a supportive atmosphere. The healthcare system is accessible, with a major hospital and numerous clinics.

The restaurant scene in Salisbury is diverse, offering a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and seafood.

The city also has a thriving theater scene, with multiple theater companies and cultural centers. While Salisbury is predominantly a car-centric city, there is a focus on walkability and revitalization of the downtown area. The city is located within a reasonable driving distance to New York and Philadelphia, providing opportunities for theater and cultural experiences.

However, Salisbury does have some challenges, including political divisions and a lack of a larger LGBTQ community. Overall, Salisbury offers affordability, good healthcare, and a sense of community for retirees.

Summary

Athens, Greece is a vibrant city with a rich history and modern amenities. It offers a mix of ancient ruins, world-class museums, delicious food, and lively nightlife. The city is known for its welcoming LGBTQ+ community, with a gayborhood in the Ghazi neighborhood and a variety of gay-friendly establishments.

Both expats and locals find it relatively easy to make friends, especially through activities and social events. While speaking Greek is not necessary to live in Athens, it can be helpful when dealing with government agencies and utilities. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among healthcare professionals.

Athens offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with theaters, music venues, museums, and festivals. The city has a variety of outdoor theaters and concert venues, including the ancient theater of Epidaurus, known for its exceptional acoustics. The museums in Athens, such as the Acropolis Museum and the Benaki Museum, are top-notch. The city also has a good public transportation system, including metro, buses, trams, and taxis. Housing costs in Athens vary depending on the neighborhood, with apartments ranging from 500 to 1000 euros per month.

The city has a low crime rate, with theft being the most common crime. Overall, Athens is considered a safe city for residents and tourists. They mention that crime is low in Athens, especially violent crime and that it is safe to walk around the city at any hour.

They also talk about the healthcare system in Athens, highlighting the low cost of medical services and medications. They mention that there are enough doctors in Athens and that it is relatively easy to get appointments. They also discuss the different types of visas available for living in Greece and the tax implications of becoming a resident.

Steve Gantzos

Steve Gantzos is a Greek-American currently living in Athens running a business as a real estate broker serving foreign and Greek clients to find their dream home in Greece. Born in the ancient Roman town of Esslingen, Germany, given the Byzantine name of Stylianos belonging to his late grandfather, the family moved to the USA in the latter months of 1969, settling in the Philadelphia area, where his mother's family settled years before, and had established themselves in the Greek community of Upper Darby, a suburb of the city.

As was the norm in the Greek community of the early 70's, the families steadfastly clung to traditions and the language, where Steve grew up speaking Greek as his first language, while enjoying the rich cultural background of his family and ancestors. Greek was the only language he spoke until entering grade school where the challenge of learning English in school turned into both a daunting and exciting task for a young child whose parents depended on his language skills at later stages of life.  

Steve spent most of his life living in the Philadelphia area then a career opportunity took him to Miami, where he spent 12 years in the tropical sun, enjoying the gentrification of the region in the mid-90s. Realizing his heart was always in Europe after numerous visits, he ventured into the process of successfully obtaining ancestral citizenship in Greece to initiate the dream of living in his continent of birth, yet the dream took many years to come to fruition. At the peak of the pandemic, and the realization that life is much too short, the dream to live and work in Europe became reality with the move to Greece in early January 2021. Steve spends much of his time enjoying the richness of his ancestral land, traveling for business and pleasure to places he learned of in his youth, and making wonderful friends along the way while enjoying the remarkable adventure that is his life in Greece.  

Steve Gantzos

Owner and Founder

www.GreekPropertyFinders.com

License Number - 168584103000

Greece:  +30 6975404848

Use WhatsApp or Viber for free calls and messages

Address:

Plateon 55

Pi55 Building

Athens 10435

Ken Cook

In "Greek Life Getaway: Live the Life You've Imagined in Greece," readers embark on a journey rich with insights into the transformative experience of settling in Greece, guided by the wisdom and personal stories of Ken Cook. Beyond his professional accolades and contributions, Ken's life story is deeply intertwined with the vibrant culture and spirit of Greece, a connection that has grown stronger over the years, especially through his marriage to an American/Greek dual citizen.

Ken first set foot in Greece in 1987, an experience that ignited a lasting passion for the country's stunning landscapes, ancient heritage, and dynamic lifestyle. His bond with Greece was further cemented in 2017 when he purchased his first apartment in Athens, and again in 2022 with a second property, a penthouse acclaimed for its spectacular Acropolis view, featured in the New York Times "The Hunt" on February 19, 2023.

Ken's journey in Greece has been enriched by his partnership with his Greek spouse. Together for 15 years and married for eight, their shared life is a testament to the beauty of cultural fusion and mutual growth. This intimate connection to Greece and its people has profoundly influenced Ken's perspective, infusing "Greek Life Getaway" with authenticity and depth.

As the President of KEC & Associates, LLC since May 2019, Ken leverages his expertise to assist Greek expatriates and those aspiring to become one. His endeavors extended to founding the Next Gen Greece Foundation, Inc. in May 2021, a non-profit aimed at empowering Greek youth to pursue meaningful careers within their homeland, thereby encouraging them to remain in Greece post-education.

Ken's extensive background, spanning from his service as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps to his executive roles in quality management across various industries, equips him with unparalleled leadership and strategic skills. His academic credentials, including a degree in Business Administration from West Virginia University and an Executive Development Certificate from the University of Minnesota, complement his practical experience.

Ken's journey exemplifies the enriching process of cultural integration and personal discovery. Through "Greek Life Getaway," Ken shares not only the logistical considerations of relocating to Greece but also the emotional and relational dimensions of building a life there. His narrative is a compelling invitation to explore the possibilities that Greece offers, underscored by his own life's testament to the joy of embracing a new culture alongside a beloved partner. This guide is an indispensable resource for anyone drawn to the prospect of a vibrant, fulfilling life in Greece, illuminated by Ken's experiences and insights.

People listening to the podcast can get a FREE copy of my book by emailing me at [email protected].

Website: Www.greeklifegetaway.com

Greek Life Getaway FB page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555012101646&mibextid=YMEMSu

Greek Life Getaway IG page: Kenneth E Cook (@greeklifegetaway) • Instagram photos and videos

Youtube:   https://youtube.com/@GreekLifeGetaway?si=Cm7BVjd9Gbx3cP1P

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kenneth-cook-298b3b11

New York Times Article:

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/02/16/realestate/athens-greece-apartment-retirement.html?smid=url-share 

Mykle Flatley and his spouse Doug moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Oloron Sainte-Marie, France in 2021. They chose Oloron Saint-Marie because of its climate, affordability, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. Michael, who is a dual Irish and American citizen, obtained Irish citizenship 20 years ago, which made moving to France easier. The biggest challenge for them has been the language, but they have found the French to be kind and helpful. Oloron Saint-Marie does not have a large LGBTQ community, but Mykle and Doug have felt accepted and welcomed by their French neighbors. They have made friends with both expats and locals and have found the local economy to be affordable. In this part of the conversation, the principal themes discussed include healthcare expenses, the cost of housing, taxes, and taxation, visas for residency, language barriers, arts and culture, restaurants and food, public transportation, and driver's licenses. In this conversation, Mykle Flatley shares his experience of moving from the United States to France, specifically the towns of Oloron and Pau. He discusses the process of obtaining a driver's license in France, the low crime rate in his town, the affordable and comprehensive healthcare system, and the cultural differences he has encountered. Mykle encourages others to consider living abroad and emphasizes the importance of learning the local language. He concludes by expressing his love for his new home and the opportunities it has provided.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a commune in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France. It is located at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, at the confluence of the Gave d'Oloron and the Gave de Pau (Pronounced Po) rivers. The town has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a historic town, with a rich cultural heritage. The town center is pedestrianized and lined with half-timbered houses. There are also several churches and other religious buildings in the town.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. The town is also a center for Basque culture, and there are several Basque festivals and events held here throughout the year.

Summary

• Nancy Schneider, a Philadelphia retiree shares her experience of retiring in the city.
• Philadelphia is located on the East Coast of Pennsylvania, with easy access to New York City, Washington DC, and the Jersey coast.
• The city has a temperate climate and offers a variety of quick getaways, including New York, the Jersey Shore, and nearby gay towns like New Hope and Rehoboth.
• Philadelphia has a vibrant LGBTQ neighborhood known as the Gayborhood, but being gay is accepted throughout the city.
• The city has a rich arts and
• culture scene, with attractions like the Kimmel Center, Walnut Street Theater, Museum of Art, Barnes Museum, and more.
• The cost of living in Philadelphia varies depending on the neighborhood, but there are affordable options available.
• The city is walkable and offers convenient public transportation options.
• Philadelphia's food scene is exceptional and offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, African, and more.
• The city is known for its sports culture, with basketball, football, and baseball being popular.
• Crime is a factor to consider, but the new mayor is taking action to address it.
• Philadelphia has excellent healthcare options, with renowned hospitals and a high number of doctors.
• The city has an urban lifestyle with walkability and access to arts, culture, and entertainment.
• Philadelphia offers easy access to travel, including an international airport.
• Pennsylvania offers tax benefits for retirees, including tax exemptions for retirement income, 401K withdrawals, IRAs, pensions, and social security. The state has the lowest flat tax rate in the country and provides property tax and rent rebate programs. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly below the national average, and the average sales tax rate is 6.17%.
• Transportation savings include discounts on auto insurance for drivers aged 55+, free bus, subway, and trolley rides for seniors over 65, $1 regional rail rides during off-peak hours, and discounted bridge tolls for drivers aged 65+ with a New Jersey EZPass.
• Overall, Philadelphia is considered a hidden gem in the Northeast.

Check out this link and video about LGBTQ+ healthcare at Cooper at Cooper University HealthCare in South New Jersey. (3.7 miles and 14 minutes from Philadelphia) https://www.cooperhealth.org/services/cooper-proud-lgbtq-health?utm_source=pgn&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PGN