Category: Central America
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A New Life and a New Perspective on Politics and Patriots
When Rita and Jim Santos sold their home in Knoxville and embarked on a nomadic lifestyle, they didn’t just leave behind the comforts of a familiar life; they stepped into a new realm of existence that reshaped their perspective on what it means to be American citizens living abroad. In our latest podcast episode, we delve…
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A Month in Panama City, Panama
After our not-quite-as-planned trip to Eastern Europe, we decided that at the very least, we would make sure we could go somewhere warm for the winter of 2023/24. The previous winter we spent a few weeks in Florida, which had the advantage of being a destination within driving range. We had pretty good luck last…
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Crafting a Life Amidst Panama’s Coastal Charm
Embarking on the journey of living abroad brings with it an orchestra of emotions, challenges, and experiences. For many, the allure of a tropical haven is irresistible. Panama, a country nestled at the junction of two continents, offers more than just a picturesque landscape—it promises a life of adventure interwoven with a laid-back lifestyle. Rita…
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Exploring the Slow-Travel Life, Panama Edition
Lesa and Stu’s narrative is a patchwork of experiences that resonate with anyone contemplating a similar leap. Their transition to Panama was a decision spurred by the desire to immerse themselves in a culture outside the familiar confines of the United States. The ease of using the US dollar and the country’s overall safety were…
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From Grief to Globetrotting
When Jim and Rita Santos faced the pain of losing their spouses, they could never have imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead. In this poignant podcast episode, we delve into the transformative experience that led this intrepid couple to redefine retirement, exploring new cultures and adventures in Ecuador and other parts of the world. It’s…
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Broken ACs and Digital Lifelines Abroad
Expat life is often romanticized as a never-ending adventure in exotic locales. However, the reality can be far more nuanced, encompassing not only the thrills of discovering new cultures but also the everyday challenges that come with living abroad. Jim and Rita Santos are well-versed in this balancing act. Through their podcast, they candidly share…
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Let’s Talk Costa Rica
Retirement is often seen as a time for relaxation and reflection. However, for a growing number of retirees, it’s becoming a gateway to new adventures, particularly in sunnier, cost-effective climes. The notion of retirement as a static life stage is rapidly giving way to a dynamic period of exploration and discovery. This paradigm shift is…
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Panama City Reflections and Crafting a Nomadic Budget
In this intriguing episode of “Travels with Jim and Rita,” the duo dives deep into their experiences in Panama City and the intricate planning of a nomadic budget. Their reflections on the bustling streets and markets, juxtaposed with the serene Malicon walks, paint a vivid picture of a city teeming with life and opportunity. Yet,…
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Not Mint To Be
NOTE: “Uh-Oh” image above from the following YouTube presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKM621L-MRE I haven’t blogged for a while, and I’m sorry about that. It has been because so much has been going on, rather than nothing to write about. I’m also sorry that I take up the keyboard again here just to type out what is mostly a rant…
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Living Without Borders in Our Golden Years
Embarking on retirement often paints a picture of a quiet life within the familiar boundaries of one’s home country. However, for an increasing number of retirees, like Rita and Jim Santos, retirement is an opportunity to break free from traditional expectations and embrace a life of international adventure. This bold decision to swap a fixed…