Read This Before You Retire In Another Country 

I've just finished reading a book on comedy, so prepare yourselves.

Many bad jokes incoming!

I am considering doing an Open Mic soon to sharpen my humor. I can't guarantee I'll be funny, but I can assure you there won't be any video evidence.

We'll see where this leads me.

While at a salsa club on Saturday, I caught up with a friend I hadn't seen in some time. Our conversation was suddenly interrupted by a girl who was curious about my travels.

I was skeptical though.

Typically, when someone shows interest in my travel blogging, they actually want to discuss THEIR own travels.

And I was correct.

She expressed in length how living in Costa Rica is superior to America and expressed her desire to retire there in the future.

I responded, "I wouldn't necessarily say it's better, it's just different."

She disregarded my statement and carried on speaking to me and my friend non-stop for 10 minutes. Once she exhausted her thoughts, she left abruptly.

I hope she won't be disappointed when she retires.

However, I've encountered similar fantasies among several Americans.

Some Americans plan to retire abroad due to:

• Favorable weather
• The strength of the dollar in these countries, enabling them to maintain a high standard of living on less money
• A more relaxed culture

However, I would reconsider before taking the leap.

For instance, I know a couple who retired to Ecuador due to the lower cost of living and better weather. However, after a few weeks, they found they couldn't adjust and eventually moved back to the States. (This example is ironic, given the current state of emergency in Ecuador.)

It's easy to fall in love with a beautiful, exotic location when you're only there for a brief period. During that time, you're not working, you're spending money, and you're simply enjoying yourself. However, visiting a place is a different experience from actually living there.

In the United States, we often take things for granted, such as medical care, customer service, and unlimited fountain soda refills.

If you're considering a permanent move to another country, consider the following questions:

• Can you live comfortably away from friends and family?
• How good is the medical care in the country?
• How much do you understand the culture and customs?
• What are the details of banking laws?
• Have you understood the Visa and residency requirements?

Before making the move, try spending a month there to get a feel of the place.

So, what should you remember from all of this?

Don't forget that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Be cautious to avoid becoming someone who has to return.

Recognize what you value and seek a country that aligns with your principles.

Andrew

Do you feel the desire to retire in another country? If so, where would that be?

Cocktail of the Week

One popular international cocktail from Chile is the Terremoto, which translates to "earthquake" in English. It is a unique drink that originated in the city of Valparaíso, Chile and gained popularity during the city's frequent earthquakes.

Recipe:

• 1 part pipeño or sweet white wine
• 1 part pineapple ice cream
• 1 splash of fernet (optional)
• Powdered sugar
• Grenadine syrup
• 1 slice of pineapple (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Preparation:

1. In a tall glass, sprinkle powdered sugar at the bottom.
2. Add a splash of grenadine syrup for a touch of sweetness.
3. Next, pour one part of pipeño or sweet white wine into the glass.
4. Add one part of pineapple ice cream.
5. Optionally, include a splash of fernet for added depth of flavor.
6. Stir the mixture gently until the ice cream begins to melt slightly.
7. Add a few ice cubes for a refreshing chill.
8. Garnish the glass with a slice of pineapple.

Random Travel Thought

When traveling, carry cash for bribes.

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

View Previous Posts