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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
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
Renato is a Bolivian entrepreneur who currently resides in Madrid.
He has a passion for languages and has found a way to make money from it.
In addition to being multilingual, he also has a fondness for the arts, particularly pottery and music. He played in the orchestra of his city in Bolivia and Spain for approximately 5 years.
Renato was born in Japan, then moved to Bolivia where he studied until he was 16 years old. He finished his high school education in Logroño, Spain, and in 2022 he moved to Madrid to start his Spanish school. But instead of giving up, he kept trying and now he is the principal of his school in the center of Madrid.
Renato enjoys traveling around the world and is planning to retire at the young age of 25 if everything goes according to plan.
Summary
Renato Padilla, a Bolivian entrepreneur in Madrid, shares his experiences and insights about living and retiring in Madrid, Spain.
He discusses his background, the reasons for choosing Madrid, the LGBTQ+ community in the city, the importance of learning Spanish, and the local economy and housing costs.
Renato also provides information about Madrid's geography, climate, and utility costs. Madrid offers high-quality public services, including healthcare and education, funded by high taxes.
The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, museums, and live performances. Madrid is a food lover's paradise, offering various cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, French, Ethiopian, and more.
The city has excellent public transportation, including local trains, high-speed bullet trains, buses, and a metro system.
While pickpocketing can be a concern, overall, Madrid is considered a safe city. Renato shares insights about safety, healthcare, visas, and living in Madrid in this conversation.
He recounts a personal experience of losing his wallet and how it was returned to him, highlighting the honesty and safety in the city.
Renato discusses the healthcare system in Madrid, emphasizing the accessibility and affordability of both private and public options. He also provides information about obtaining a visa, particularly the non-lucrative visa for retirees. Renato mentions the importance of understanding the different autonomous regions in Spain and their varying rules and taxes. He concludes by offering advice for those considering relocating to Madrid.
Unveiling the Tapestry of Madrid, Spain: A Quick Guide
Bustling Heart of Spain: Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital city, pulsates with energy. As the country's largest metropolis (population: 3.3 million).
Climate and Geography: Nestled on a central plateau at over 2,000 feet, Madrid experiences distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for strolling through charming plazas or exploring verdant parks like El Retiro. Winters tend to be crisp, with occasional snowfall.
Getting Around: Madrid is a pedestrian's paradise. Many historic areas are best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the architectural grandeur and vibrant street life. A comprehensive public transportation network offers efficient travel via metro, buses, and trams for longer distances.
A Welcoming Embrace for the LGBTQ+ Community: Madrid has long championed LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a thriving and inclusive community. The city explodes with rainbow colors during the annual Pride celebration, one of the largest in Europe. Numerous LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and cultural centers provide safe spaces for connection and self-expression.
A Feast for the Senses: Arts & Culture: World-renowned museums like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofía Museum house masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso. The city's energy extends beyond museums, with captivating flamenco performances, lively theaters, and a constant buzz of creativity.
Tantalizing Your Taste Buds: Dining & Restaurants: Madrid is a haven for gourmands. From the iconic tapas bars overflowing with delectable bite-sized delights to Michelin-starred restaurants crafting exquisite culinary experiences, the city caters to every palate. Don't miss out on indulging in local specialties like cocido madrileño (a hearty chickpea stew) or churros con chocolate (deep-fried dough sticks dipped in hot chocolate).
Cost of Living: Compared to other Western European capitals, Madrid offers a relatively moderate cost of living. However, it's important to factor in your lifestyle choices, as dining out and entertainment can add up.
Crime and Safety: Madrid is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any major destination, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It is recommended that tourists be aware of their surroundings and take precautions with their belongings.
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Frontiers of Equality in the Development of EU and US Citizenship
Author: Dr Jeremy B. Bierbach
Jeremy Bierbach (1975) is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in linguistics, Jeremy worked as an IT specialist for several years. In 2001, Jeremy emigrated to the Netherlands. In 2003, he changed his career direction. He studied law at the University of Amsterdam, earning a bachelor’s degree in Dutch law in 2006 and a master’s in constitutional and administrative law in 2007. Jeremy subsequently worked as a legal advisor through Avocado Legal, where he focused on immigration and European migration law. In January 2014, Jeremy joined Franssen Advocaten and was sworn into the Dutch bar as an attorney. In September 2015, he successfully defended his PhD thesis in European constitutional law at the University of Amsterdam. A commercial edition of his thesis, Frontiers of Equality in the Development of US and EU Citizenship, was published in 2017 by Asser Press.
His specialty and focus of interest are in invoking norms of international law — EU law in particular — as a source of protection for members of minority groups who are unrepresented or underrepresented in the democratic process: in particular EU citizens, their non-EU citizen family members, and other non-EU citizen immigrants to the Netherlands (including British citizens as former EU citizens).
Takeaways
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Eric is French, born and raised in Paris where he lived and worked as a business journalist until Michael and he left for Malta.
Michael is American by birth (born in Hollywood, Florida) and became French while living in Paris. An HR Executive for 2 very large conglomerates, Michael has moved around a lot for his companies and traveled the world.
He and Eric decided that life was too short to pass up a move to somewhere warm, and sunny yet still close to Eric's family in Paris. They decided to move to Malta in 2014 and opened a couple of rental properties before restoring an ancient property to become a boutique hotel, Senglea Suites.
Summary:
Takeaways:
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pamm meyers
pamm meyers is, storyteller, dynamic leader and advocate dedicated to fostering prosperity within the LGBTQIA community through business innovation and social advocacy. With a multifaceted background, pamm has become a trailblazer in various fields, leaving an indelible mark on New Mexico’s LGBTQIA and business communities.
As CEO of Go Social, pamm meyers Social Media.
https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ pamm is at the forefront of digital marketing and podcasting solutions for business owners and organizations. Her visionary approach has empowered countless ventures to harness the potential of social media, unlocking new avenues for growth and engagement. It is a driving force behind her client’s success, leveraging the power of connectivity to elevate their brand through digital marketing and podcasting.
pamm is the managing partner of Two Flower Productions, a podcasting company that produces “Lip Service, the podcast of Our Coming Out Stories”, New Mexico’s Business Podcast.
Previously the Execu?ve Director of the New Mexico Out Business Alliance, currently, Board Advisor for the Way Out West Film Fest, Board Advisor for the Albuquerque Community Founda?on Pride Circle, hMps://abqcf.org/pride-circle/
supporting the LGBTQIA community through philanthropy.
pamm meyers
https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ [email protected]
Albuquerque, New Mexico with Pamm Meyers
Summary
Pam Myers, a dynamic leader and advocate, shares her retirement experience in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
She discusses the LGBTQ+ community, arts and culture, cost of living, and transportation in the area.
Pam highlights the welcoming and safe environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and the thriving arts scene in Albuquerque. She also mentions the affordable cost of living and the abundance of galleries, theaters, and restaurants in the city. Pam concludes by mentioning the unique attractions in New Mexico, such as the Balloon Fiesta and the historic train rides.
Albuquerque, New Mexico offers an enchanting atmosphere with its blue skies and sense of peacefulness. Albuquerque's lack of traffic and affordable housing make it an attractive option. The city has a public transportation system, including buses and a rail trolley, but owning a car is still necessary.
The airport is conveniently located and undergoing renovations.
Crime rates in Albuquerque are comparable to other cities of its size, with petty theft being the most common issue.
The healthcare system is well-equipped, with multiple hospitals and reasonable wait times for specialists. The LGBTQ+ community in Albuquerque is welcoming and supportive. Overall, Albuquerque offers an ideal climate, affordability, and a strong sense of community.\
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