10 Ways Moving Abroad Will Change Your Life

[@TravelingwithKristin]

What are your favorite things about living abroad (or what are you looking forward to when you move abroad?)

[@Audion]

I'm seeking specific scientific antiquities which originated in specific places.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

@@Audion Cuba has great antiques!

[@kippen64]

If I ever achieved my dream of living in the UK, I look forward to throwing myself into the culture that I have been absorbing for over five decades.

[@WITYTRAVELS]

Great video! Our favorite things about living abroad are: learning the history of the country, meeting the local people, and checking out what the markets have for sale.

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

You should do a video of how to make money when you travel because when you travel to all these places it cost money not everybody can do it.. because the way you traveling your videos it's like you're you are rich and have tons of money which is true I know you're working so do a video on how people make money to do this traveling..

[@norrisbethke7770]

Mark Twain said something to the effect that travel is fatal to prejudice, ignorance, and narrow-mindedness....living abroad, especially in non-english speaking countries, really wakes up the rest of your mind, even the mundane becomes more exciting...it’s a daily adventure of new discoveries...thx for the vid 🙏🏻👍🏻✌🏻🕊

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Classic advice! Glad you liked it, Norris :)

[@francisdavis1271]

I am amenable to Mark Twain's comments but there is a required cultural shift to enter this lifestyle: You're prepared to give up familiarity. I suspect the majority of folks are not as adaptable as your cohort... but we need more of Twain's comment in our society.

[@solascriptura-e7t]

Amen, @@francisdavis1271 ! The "unknown", that..."forces you to adapt"...is what is truly valuable about living abroad! As a vet of the USN, I was always eager to venture to new countries (in my fleet); which stretched from Hawai'i, to Cyprus. 13 countries in 3 years really opened my mind to other cultures.

[@norrisbethke7770]

@Drumcula I would suspect so

[@willettsfamily9862]

Travelling the world definitely creates a whole new being. You could say people who live aboard literally belong to the world and not just my country.

[@Mr.DamianM]

As an American, I once ventured to China. I met a young lady there. I told her she was "exotic". She said, in broken English, "And do you think you are not?" My point is, the excitement that Kristin is discussing is real, for you, and possibly, for the people you meet.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

It's all about perspective ;)

[@shinyshinythings]

So true about the way living abroad wakes up your mind. And, I’ll add, it’s true at any age! I’m in my 50s and navigating the grocery aisles in a new language, seeing the way brands are reconfigured for a different linguistic and cultural market, and just getting around the city from day to day are fascinating!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love to hear that! Which country are you living in? So relatable

[@jwestfalldavis3574]

Isn't it freaky to see familiar brands at a fraction of the cost back home?!

[@nicknicholas3186]

@@TravelingwithKristin I assume you speak Spanish fluently. And what about a potential partner?

[@jace2wheel762]

Its also never too late! Lol im 40 and chomping at the bit to take the motorcycle across Europe and beyond

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I completely agree. You’ve got this! 🏍

[@icysurfer1]

Moved to maui at 39, learned to ride big waves, and free dive to 36 feet. Jumping off waterfalls, now 60. Ready to return to costa rica for the 5th time and get back into surfing after years away from the ocean. Not much money, but plenty of determination this time.

[@brianbyrne3003]

Hope you come to Ireland!

[@Santor6]

I have need to talk to people that are decided to go outside their cozy life. If you want to talk...

[@joew717]

@@TravelingwithKristin do it while you can!

[@pokuspony]

Totally agree with it all. These things are so hard to explain to people who have not lived around the world. These skills one acquires from living abroad cannot be explain in a CV and cannot be explained over a beer or coffee to anyone who asks about our kind of life.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

We should have a coffee sometime! 😄☕️

[@pokuspony]

@@TravelingwithKristin We would have hours of agreeing with each other! haha. It is just so hard to explain this life to others who cannot see beyond the box they live in, especially in the US. It is always nice to meet people who know this is not a fantasy. It has ups and downs and we are all generally pretty normal people deep down, just with a bizarre set of skills and a view of the world as being small and accessible when most people see it as this distant dream.

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

The lesson today is basically enjoy your life today.. don't waste your time work and work and work and all that life then retire and then you're too old to do anything.. I'm living my life now I live out of my van I have a lot more freedom I live alternatively I'm a minimalist. . And I love to travel so I know exactly what she's talking about she so right.. live today not tomorrow..

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Exactly! Which country are you in?

[@icysurfer1]

Time goes by fast, but ya don't realize it until you're older. Get out there.

[@joew717]

That's awesome! We were planning to become digital nomads in 2019 and then my wife had a heart attack...then when she healed we were planning again and the pandemic hit...then started planning again and she was diagnosed with cancer. Needless to say she is MOTIVATED to get well and go see the world while she still can! (Hence binge watching Kristin's videos!!)

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@joew717 you see my friend that is the point of living relatively you have more freedom if your wife your wife is a clear example of that she wants to see the world before she goes that's me a lot of people everyday want to work work work 9 to 5 or whatever time wait until they retire and then probably won't do that by then why do young age I'm in my late forties I say Enjoy your life today that's one of the reasons why I do it and small prints mom is having a lot because you get to live a lot more freedom you're debt-free to work best to leave now my friend don't let no one stop you why do guys can I say go ahead do your thing but do it soon..

[@joew717]

@@skapunkoialternativeliving6522 We're trying! Been selling off our extra stuff but of course all of the money we saved up had to go to medical expenses so we're starting over again. She starts chemo therapy next week and will continue until June so she'll need time to heal and get her strength back while we continue planning and preparing for life's next big adventure. Fortunately I can do my full time job anywhere there's internet and she's a professional artist and art instructor (teaches online classes now). We don't own property in the USA and have relatives we can leave a few keepsakes with. Our future is uncertain but hope to have the world as our front yard as soon as possible!

[@vhp8146]

I traveled in my 20's in the 1980's & early 1990's before the internet & cell phones and before Europe was a union,.... some things were better about that, some things worse. How travelling is done now is very different from back then. But several things remain true: The world is SO big, amazingly beautiful, sometimes terrible, and kinda small, all at the same time. Small trips or big trips, to any place, travel makes people better because it's mind-broadening, and increases global understanding. Travel is the Best Education! :)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I miss that kind of slow, organic travel!

[@ednamoreno5444]

You said everything in one paragraph! I also travelled in my 20's during the 80s and after 2000. There is a difference, but I agree with you when you say "travel is the best education!"

[@lucymars4319]

Everything you said in your video is what I keep telling people!!! I couldn’t have said it better. I lived in Egypt for 15 years and in Dubai for three, and now I live in the USA. I do feel a significant cultural deficit and lack of social vitality here. I’m emotionally tired and physically exhausted. I want to go overseas again. I want to sell my stuff and move away. I can’t stand this anymore.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm sorry to hear about your current experience Lucy. I do hope you could travel soon. If your thinking of being a digital nomad, you can check out www.digitalnomadbootcamp.com it can be your first step! 😊

[@orlymarq6238]

I agree

[@asrgal]

Amazing Video! I was a nomad from 20 to 25 years old, just not digital since it was before all the online possibilities. I worked seasonal jobs in hotels and resorts. Winters in ski resorts and Summers on islands etc. Now at 45 starting again, but with a remote job. So excited for the next few years 🤗

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That is awesome, Andrea! PS You will love this podcast with ski bum turned digital nomad, web developer, and mountain guide, Steve Rout: www.travelingwithkristin.com/digital-nomad-podcast/live-your-best-life

[@kyleblake1565]

I love your calm, organized presentation style. I’m 👀 forward to broadening my worldview. 🇨🇦

[@higherresolution4490]

Well put, Kyle. My thoughts exactly. Her videos are totally unique in their quality and listenability.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you Kyle and Tomas! Wow - your feedback is definitely motivating me to keep going. It took me more than 10 years to work up the courage to start this channel so I really appreciate it.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Tomas! (Responded more in the other comment but not sure if you'll get the notification)

[@kyleblake1565]

Kristin, I really relate to what you said about minimalism etc. I moved with my 200 things to Victoria BC. Did you make it here while in Vancouver?

[@higherresolution4490]

@@TravelingwithKristin Yes, I definitely received the great comments you made. And I replied again-probably writing too much, which is my tendency. I'll post this video on FB right now. I'd like my friends to become acquainted with your work and services.

[@geewhiz6598]

I love that point you make about how our schooling, books, etc. around learning about other cultures and countries often underscores what makes us different. There isn’t a lot of emphasis on what makes us the SAME. Deep.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes! So glad you agree 🤜🤛🙌

[@michellemorrison9663]

Travel is definitely the best education! You never stop learning. Each step you take, turns into a new lesson. Like my husband and I... got lost at a village in Italy, no ubers, no English or Spanish and NO phone signals!!!😅😅😂😂 love it all!!!!💓💓

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Absolutely!!

[@waltercito47]

Wow, Kristin. I enjoy all your videos but this one is, well, impressive. I'm just shaking my head over how much insight you are able to communicate...you feelings as well as your observations. I always learn from you, but this time was exponential. Thank you so much :-)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Wow, thank you, Wally! So touched by the kind words. I'm saving your comment :)

[@beyondhorizons9758]

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” - Anthony Bourdain

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love that quote! Thanks for sharing 😊

[@casadehusker]

Kristen, my wife and I are in our 50's. She is originally from Bulgaria, where we own a home and spend some summer time there, but this last year we have decided to move there permanently. I have been watching your videos in preparation. Of course the cost of living in Bulgaria is great and with my American pension we will be truly retired, but we also crave a slower, similar way of life. And if we ever get out of these mask and great place to travel from.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear that, robb! Where in Bulgaria? The cost of living is very ideal if you are living on a US pension. The pace of life is quite nice as well. I hope it reopens to Americans soon

[@casadehusker]

@@TravelingwithKristin We have a home in Stara Zagora, but are looking to buy/build about 14K north in a small village of Borilovo. I've been to most if not all of the places in your videos, but still much of the country to explore. I love America, but time to escape the rat race and focus on life.

[@EndzCrypto]

The first point is 100% true Kristin! Travelling slows downtime time as your brain needs to process and adapt to new surroundings, effectively lengthening your life! My almost years back in London has FLOWN by so grateful to be making the jump to Medellin in April.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love that - yes it does seem to slow down time! And helps you remember exactly where you were every month and year of your life depending on which destination you were in! Great to hear that you are able to head back abroad again soon :)

[@NeilLevalier1]

For all the reasons you mentioned I plan on moving abroad when I retire in four years. I wish I did it earlier like you but, hey, better late than never. Looks like you have crafted a cool life for yourself. And you make great videos!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Derek! It's never too late! Did you see the video about becoming a digital nomad in your 50s? But I have some clients that were 80 years old kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpOYapVngZWjmZI

[@relaxingnaturesounds-sleep5072]

Absolutely true. My senses are more fully awake. I do feel more alive. I really enjoy your videos .. Kristin. Hello from Nomad Cruiser #6.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Wonderful to hear that and hello fellow Cruiser!! Oh, should I share in the alumni group? PS: What is your name?

[@relaxingnaturesounds-sleep5072]

@@TravelingwithKristin My name is Kathryn McCampbell. Please share me on any group you like. I'm the older cruiser who was on her way to Africa for humanitarian purpose. I hope you will support my new channel. I'm excited about it.

[@billstewart3980]

Kristin, you are so insightful and are able to articulate subtle and complex things so clearly. What a blessing you are.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Wow; thank you so much Bill. So kind of you to say!

[@relaxingnaturesounds-sleep5072]

Kristen, you knocked it out of the park with this one! So eloquently and completely put my feeling to words. I can now refer friends to this video when they ask me why. Thank you so much for you being you! NC6

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You are welcome! Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for referring it to your friends! 😊

[@eversunnyguy]

Meeting all kinds of people and culture cultivates empathy and to experience oneness of humanity. Also, each country landscape is different. Something to enjoy and cherish ! Also, food lol.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Agree! Shoot I forgot to add food!

[@eversunnyguy]

@@TravelingwithKristin That's ok. It is easy to overlook as we get all kinds of food cuisines in USA...but definitely miss the authenticity.

[@AndyBlackSEO]

I’m 45 and have a location independent business. I recently decided to rent my house out (which I have now done) and am just waiting for restrictions to ease so that I can go abroad and start my digital nomad adventures. I can’t wait! Great videos!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear, Andy! Best of luck! Stay tuned for more :)

[@gabrieladowler3425]

I always thought about renting out my home. Will you rent it furnished?

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

One of the best things of living in different countries is open your mind to different cultures different races of people live..

[@TravelingwithKristin]

100%! I talk about that in the video, too (and in my podcast today).

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@TravelingwithKristin excellent my dear keep making great videos I might self is a minimalist I live at my van and I live small simple life which means I can travel more I can live more and debt free and I agree with you 100% this is why I like your videos it's about ..live today not tomorrow..

[@seanart1508]

Yes, different countries different things, as i'm a Brit living in Mexico!

[@skapunkoialternativeliving6522]

@@seanart1508 likewise I'm a Brit Living in America but I like to travel as well I can't stay in one place this is why I do alternative live in I live at my van now.. and I do it on purpose so I can travel and live and work for free not work for free but live more free.. the bottom line is my friend live today not tomorrow because tomorrow is not guaranteed or you may be too old tomorrow to help with that crap ..I want to live now....

[@seanart1508]

@@skapunkoialternativeliving6522 I totally agree with you. Yes, travelling around to different places is exciting, and one day i very much hope to move on again!

[@solascriptura-e7t]

Amen, Kristin ! The "unknown", that..."forces you to adapt"...is what is truly valuable about living abroad! As a vet of the USN, I was always eager to venture to new countries (in my fleet); which stretched from Hawai'i, to Cyprus. 13 countries in 3 years really opened my mind to other cultures, foods, and ways of life.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That's great to know that you're well traveled as well Sola! 😊 Glad to know you resonated with my video as well. Safe travels to you :)

[@garyhobbs7404]

Kristin you are awesome! I’ve probably watched more of your videos of travel than anyone else’s. I really like the fact that you present it as it really is and I love the natural style you have! Thank you so much for doing what you do! Blessings!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Gary! Glad that you enjoyed my videos. It's my pleasure to share these videos with you. 😊🙏

[@veroniquefaison]

I feel the most free when I am traveling or living abroad. I was born abroad and lived the majority of my childhood abroad, it was a priceless experience.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Me too! Where did you live?

[@tazmania7461]

Awesome Video. Starting January, I'll be travelling several countries before settling down somewhere to Teach English for a while. Having just turned 32, it's daunting but incredibility exciting to leave the day to day career here and just enjoy the world and cultures for what they have to offer. Looking forward to more video's! Appreciate it!

[@shinyshinythings]

Good for you! Best time of life to do it.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So excited for you! You have a lot to look forward to 😊 And thank you for watching. Much more to come 🎥🎥

[@Supercarlosist]

Kristin...thank you..It's so refreshing to hear you speak about your experiences living abroad.. great!!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So happy to hear that, Carlos!

[@zchu3179]

You said it so well, that I listened to your video for twice!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Wow thanks ZC! I’m so happy to hear that 😀😀

[@maxfastest]

Don't Wait to retire EVER ! I'm 62 and my wife is 60, she just got the terminal cancer announcement ! 6 months from now I'll be a widower ! 35 years together and thankfully we had a ten year stretch where we were able to get out and see the country and even the Caribbean ! Now I'm left with not knowing what to do with myself.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Steve, I'm so sorry to hear about your wife. I wish your safety.

[@maxfastest]

@@TravelingwithKristin Thank you !

[@yogaforsale2882]

Hi Kristin, I really appreciate your balanced presentation of these topics. You are grounded and wise, but also clearly passionate and excited about life and this lifestyle. It's contagious! Looking forward to going through your other videos and podcasts as I make the transition into a digital nomad lifestyle myself.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much for the kind words! Glad that you enjoy my videos 🙏 You can check out my digitalnomadbootcamp.com for free resources 😊 Best of luck to you!

[@robp3431]

'Liken it to getting older'.....100% agree with accelerated personal growth.....such a positive video !!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear that, Rob! Thank you 🙏

[@levirose8881]

great video - your stuff has improved over the years! I find it inspiring

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Levi - happy to hear that!

[@happysunshinemedia7092]

i was supposed to leave in 2020, and now im just counting down the days to be an expat again. good video. explains my feelings well

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I can definitely relate... where to next?

[@tropicaljunkremoval5239]

@@TravelingwithKristin The Philippines

[@FRANCISCARUSOworld]

This video describes exactly how I feel better than I could explain myself! Many people don't truly understand our lifestyle and why we feel like we belong everywhere but nowhere at the same time...

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you resonated with my video Francis. Thank you for sharing your insights!

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

Yes ! When traveling abroad your senses COME ALIVE ! We recently retired and will travel to many countries and can not imagine the boredom of retirement in the US, just burning through days while on brain auto pilot. Not to mention we would have had to work another 6-8 years ! NO WAY ! Great video !

[@danjsilve]

My favourite things are meeting people that I could not have possibly met had I stayed in my home town. I felt I was in Groundhog Day. I get to learn how to cook local dishes that would not on menu’s in restaurants. I have a adapted to eating outdoors on a regular basis, being from England that was rarely possible. Learning traditions from the locals and different eating habits. The different types of music. The different smells. My spending each month is less than back in England too. I could go on 🤩🙏👍

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Agree, Dan; at the end of the day, it's all about the people (and food, of course!). I'm a music lover, too (learned to DJ in quarantine)

[@debbiespears3312]

Great video! I'm born and raised in California but just lived for a year in Barcelona. It was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. Thanks to the pandemic I'm back in L.A. for now, but look forward to seeing my friends/expat family again soon!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear that, Debbie - Couldn't agree more! Stay safe over there

[@alteredillusions100]

That was a really good video! It was nice to reflect on this. I think what I liked the most about living abroad is experiencing the culture, food and people.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you liked it. I agree it’s all about people food and culture. The next video is about the downsides of living abroad though so keep an eye out this weekend ;)

[@ninecatsmagee8384]

It's different moving abroad with children and having a purpose in being there. A mature adult with a moving van and setting up a home isn't so vulnerable as a young person with luggage. We came abroad to live because I didn't like the American lifestyle and wanted something better for my children. Others said it was a fantasy and I'd find out I was wrong. But I wasn't. Twenty years later on we've collectively lived in twelve countries and they all attended university in a range of places. As they want to settle and raise families themselves we've regrouped in one community. The difference between this and staying in the USA is that we chose it; we know the ups and downs. We love this lifestyle -- more outdoors, community, family time and healthy living. No guns, shopping mall, gross over-eating, overt greed, anger management issues and social climbing.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Magee, that's good to know. I agree that everyone is unique and that everyone has a say in how they live their lives. Go as long as you're comfortable with it! Thank you for sharing Magee!

[@alexandrahsu6772]

After I graduated from university I moved to New Zealand, and it was life-changing, I learned so much about life , language and humanity!!! Now I can work remotely instead of doing the 9-5 job, so thankful!!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you are happy working remotely Alexandra! Thank you for sharing and for watching the video 😊

[@nathangoode3126]

The mentality and mindsets are so much better and different. Traveling and knowing other cultures makes you more understanding and you can appreciate the little things.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yesss 🙌

[@owenphil]

Many excellent points covered here... France remains an adventure for me even after all these years here. And in 2019 I spent a month in Chile, which was a total adventure, every day was an intense immersion in extraordinary experiences. A pleasure to hear your perspectives. ( I had my car broken into in Italy once… 🙃 ) Kudos for your communication skills. PS One of my daughters lived in Beirut, Lebanon for 3 years, and she did a six month around the world trip in 2019 with her sister... so am happy my daughters also caught the traveling bug.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Ellen, so glad you liked the video! I appreciate the kind words. I would love to go live in Lebanon for a while. It sounds like she liked it? My ex-boyfriend's family is from there

[@richardbeachey1444]

Kristin. Just finished watching. I am inspired by your open mind and heart. To see what your eyes have seen, what your nose has smelled, what you have heard and touched and tasted.....all the places you have lived. All the humans you have met and the wonderful world around you. You have put into spoken words the imagination of life. I do not believe the following will happen in my lifetime...hopefully yours. The opportunity to go and live in different worlds! Sooner or later that will happen, and I believe it will be sooner rather than later.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

This sentence gives me chills: "You have put into spoken words the imagination of life." So beautiful. Thank you for all the support. I will do my best to keep sharing what I have learned in the hopes that others can use it on their journeys

[@richardbeachey1444]

Kristin. You are welcome and thank you for your inspiring response. WOW. Seeing your response and thinking of your original post for some reason reminded me of a different take of an old movie I really like and made me think of the following....... "Lost in Translation" - in your case that should be "Found in Translation". What you have found and continue to find you have translated for us all. I am profoundly thankful I have come across your channel.

[@RichD2024]

Great video Kristin. I agree with you, living for the experiences that life can give you versus the material things you can acquire is so much more rewarding.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Richard. I might not have furniture, but I have a lot of memories 😊

[@renato3686]

I don't have words to express how much I love this channel, all the information, the design on your videos and specially your kind personality!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Wow Akashi, I deeply appreciate your kind words - this helps so much for motivation and makes the many hours/days/weeks spent on each video well worth it! I will keep going :)

[@MillaExplores]

Great video! It's so true that daily things become an adventure when living abroad - I love visiting grocery stores in different countries haha. It's also cool that you can have many ''homes''. Once you have lived somewhere for a while it becomes a part of you and feels a bit like home next time you visit. 🤗

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I love exploring markets and grocery stores abroad - so interesting! And yes, I completely agree with you. I feel like I have multiple homes and many countries have become part of my comfort zone in a way

[@brandonbrewer3543]

And this video is so 100% spot on love this 😘😘

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much Brandon! Glad to know you resonated with my content 😊

[@torvaldk7709]

Well done young lady! I share alot of your videos with my daughter as encouragement for traveling.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So glad to hear that!! 😃

[@torvaldk7709]

@@TravelingwithKristin keep up your channel and best of luck in coming days! Enjoy the content and quality of your work.

[@fenraven]

When I travel, I talk to everyone! It's fabulous. I learn so much and connections are made.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That good to know Theo! You can definitely learn a lot by talking to the locals and diving in to their culture. 😊

[@thebookwasbetter3650]

Great vid. First thing I do when I land is go to the local grocery store. I always stay in airbnbs with kitchens so I can cook. Going to the grocery store like a local helps me acclimate and not feel like a tourist.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love that! Me too :)

[@bro_math]

You gotta make more "triggering" videos. People love that stuff. EXAMPLE: "Why YOU will never be a digital nomad." Then call them out on the top-ten excuses people have for not doing anything with their lives. I lived in a transit van (like a sprinter) for a year in CA. Built it out, and traveled around a bunch. Paid no rent. Had a blast. It took so much planning, research, and determination. But was totally worth it. People always said, "I'm thinking about doing vanlife." I would reply, "Yep. Everybody in under 30 is 'Thinking about doing vanlife' That doesn't mean shit. What are you actually doing about vanlife?" They were doing nothing. Classic, and they're still thinking about vanlife. Keep making that good content. Thanks.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Phil! Good idea; I'll put some thought to that! :)

[@Justgretchen]

I lived in Japan in my mid 20s, now I'm 46 and in a serious rut! Planning to move to Spain (?) by the time I'm 50.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Gretchen! Did you catch my Spain cost of living video? Hope it helps! Once you're drinking wine in a Spanish vineyard you'll feel much better! Keep the end in mind (I think everyone is in a rut this year) kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2PZkHRjnq16rMU

[@andreas543]

Gretchen just curious, why wait 4 years?

[@Justgretchen]

@@andreas543 I have some health things going on, as well as financial things. I want to be able to move without having those worries, so I can enjoy myself more.

[@andreas543]

@@Justgretchen Ok. Thx for quick reply.

[@moreapropos]

One issue is that when you are single, it is much easier to travel light and call no place home; but when you make a decision to have kids, then that changes much and you have to settle down for the family. so enjoy it all while you can.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I'm trying! I know quite a few nomadic or expat families, though

[@ronaldoago-go5907]

There's another side to this inasmuch as I had my children at a young age, now they are living their lives and I am a great-grandfather. I am starting my traveling journey at age 70 while I am still Young and Healthy!

[@covertcovers625]

I love this. Thank you so much for creating this video, and all of your content Kristin!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@martypoll]

I am an American retiree that moved to Bangkok 4 years ago. I loved re-inventing myself, starting anew, and getting rid of all my stuff. I lived my life in suburbs and now love living in a big city but we are also building a house in the rural Thai countryside - both different to what I was accustomed to. Regarding discovering that we all have the same psychology, I would point out that modern westerners are different, even psychologically, from much of the world. I will refer you to the recent book by Joseph Henrich, “The WEIRDEST People in the World“. WEIRD - Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Interesting! Thank you for the book recommendation, Martin. I hope you are enjoying the Thai countryside a monthly! You may also like this video I did recently on becoming a digital nomad minimalist kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHPPiot5mJ2Ze6M

[@dianebassett1930]

Please tell us more about the main points in the book?

[@5256steve]

So true everything you say! Awesome Job!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love to hear that, Steve!

[@amyo.garcia2365]

I enjoy your thoughtful commentary. I hope I meet you out on the road when I become a digital nomad. Love your videos.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Amy! So nice to connect with you remotely for now 🙂

[@christinadaggett6024]

I agrre with you. Living abroad for over 10 years, my husband and I feel like it's one big adventure after another. I'm alot older than you are, but I went to school in Melbourne, Florida. We are currently staying in Georgia (Europe), and are renovating an apartment, in a historic building. We enjoyed watching your video.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Nice to meet you, Christina! Great to meet a fellow Floridian. Glad you are liking the videos and also your expat lifestyle over in Georgia!

[@GorillaExploration]

Fantastic episode Kristin! All my life I was made to believe that Canada is paradise; that it has the best healthcare system in the world & that everywhere else was scary to be in if you get sick. But ever since I left Canada for good (to avoid the Rat race lifestyle, individualism, materialism & extreme cold weather), my wellbeing has been top notch! I actually have a better healthcare than I did in Canada! what I love most about being abroad is the slower pace of life, the humanity in people, the warm sunshine & the fresh fruits that are only seasonal & not GMO 🤣😅

[@TravelingwithKristin]

It's great to hear that! Which country are you in?

[@carlosarana1589]

Great video Kristin!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Carlos! 💗

[@juancho420]

When I lived in Barcelona all of a sudden people I hadnt seen or talked to in years started showing up. After a while it got old....

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Is that where you're from?

[@juancho420]

@@TravelingwithKristin lol no American

[@pauldes2836]

A rather insightful video! It has really made me contemplate on what I’ve learned/gained over the last 25 years.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Love to hear that Paul!

[@goxsha791]

Love the videos, I can't get much older and the older I get the less I like meeting people. I have a dilemma.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Gary; I think most people would relate to you as there are quite a few memes out there about how people like dogs more than people, for example. Meeting people can be uncomfortable but strangers are just friends you haven't met yet. Even when I'm not in the mood to be social, I'm always glad I made the effort :)

[@7skeptic7]

Great video and very thought provoking idea, from myself an expat and world traveler

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you enjoyed it, Mark! (especially being a seasoned traveler)

[@michaelaillon1206]

Wow! This video is so succinct. It's going to be a game-changer for my family and the way we think. Thank you.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great to hear that, Michael! Glad I could help 😊

[@fullphatjunior]

Love the video Kristin, love your stuff and seeing your face just makes me smile ♥️♥️

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Aw thanks Junior!

[@hodlwaddle3488]

Thanks, inspiring and timely. Time to travel again and have adventures.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You bet! Thanks M

[@wctucker2]

Just saw this video and wanted to thank you for talking about the intangible things that contribute to the reasons for wanting to become a nomad. I have struggled a little with it but am sure I want to pursue it Your video is what I needed to negate a lot of the videos done by folks with titles like "why you should never live in ..........." There are so many reasons and I needed some intangible reasons like what you identified in your video Thanks

[@scottman895]

I have not lived abroad yet, but the closest I got to that in some way was when I was able to work remotely for the first couple days after New Year's Day in 2020. My work gave us the ability to work from home the days before Christmas and the two days after New Year's Day at the end of 2019 and start of 2020, and I took advantage of it by extending my vacation in South Carolina by working out of Myrtle Beach for two days. From that experience, I totally agree that being somewhere different than the norm makes you feel more excited to dig deep into the culture there. I looked forward to completing the work day and then heading out to explore. I definitely would like to explore this more now that things are starting to get better this year. Great job with the video!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, Scott; I'm so glad that you've been able to experience the benefits of work-from-home! More travel and adventures abroad are right around the corner for you :)

[@johnnyqzumba2012]

Looking forward to Living My Best Adventure!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Sounds great!

[@gracedagostino5231]

Great video Kristin! Do you have a favorite place that you lived?

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Grace! The places that I like to live the most aren’t necessarily the most exciting or exotic, but my top three places to live in the world are Sydney Australia, Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and Vancouver, Canada. I also love the lifestyle in Norway. There are a lot of other places that I’ve loved living, but more for short term stays of a few months or so. I know a lot of people love living in Tulum or Thailand but I find tropical places too uncomfortable to live in the long run (for working remotely) because of the climate and infrastructure

[@paul-emilecorbeil931]

Really do enjoy your style of presentation Kristin . Started living abroad as a baby, my parents from Montreal were snow birds who lived in Miami for 7 months in the year. Did that until the age of 5. Then started living abroad on and off since teenage years.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you enjoy my videos Paul. Thanks for sharing your experience as well! 😊

[@creativekibhole]

Another one of the super exciting video that I couldn’t wait to watch. Am so proud of you my sister . Your a legend to me. I hope one day I may atleast be like you. You inspire me a lot, you also inspired me to start a channel and now it’s growing very fast thanks a lot . Be blessed always I hope your fans may also atleast think of supporting me too.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you so much! Keep it up 💗

[@creativekibhole]

@@TravelingwithKristin your welcome 🙏, I believe one day we can make a collaboration video together if you won’t mind 😊

[@taki2003]

very insightful; thank you! I plan to retire in Greece. Seems to me to be very central for travel to the rest of Europe without living somewhere cold!! I love that I have family in Greece, too...will make it so much easier :) enjoy your day

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you enjoyed it, Taki! Greece is a very affordable expat destination (and great food and lifestyle)

[@Drjanetta]

A brilliant video ! Thank you!!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You are welcome! Stay tuned for part two coming on Saturday about what I don’t like about living abroad ;)

[@lana.9073]

I really enjoyed this, Kristin, and can so relate. One of my favourite things about living abroad: papaya, watermelon and coconuts all day everyday 🥰 (depending on location though).

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So good! Thanks Lana :) 🍍🍉

[@mattbard7612]

now in my mid seventies......... you make good observations on many aspects of overseas life....... i've used up 3 passports over the years........... no judge anything...... but , in older years your own family will be the only thing worth remembering. think about it. m

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing Matt 😊

[@alexd5128]

As for me, the challenge/reward is to communicate with those who don't speak English. My solution is always carrying a laser pointer. I was at a Brazilian restaurant trying to order food from a menu on the wall with English in it. Since it's so high up there, the cashier who didn't speak a word of English couldn't figure out which item I was pointing at. All of a sudden, it hit me that I had a laser pointer in my briefcase. So I pulled it out and pointed at the item on the menu. The cashier was quite impressed! HaHa. I've since then ordered many things with that pointer. Unfortunately, that GREEN laser pointer got confiscated at a German airport for being too strong. So a RED pointer would be the best compromise in this case. The problem with a red one is that many conference rooms nowadays use a large LED monitor instead of a DLP projector. When you shine a red laser on a LED monitor, it simply doesn't show anything! So I ended up getting another Green pointer, taking it apart, and putting a piece of paper in front of the laser to minimize its intensity so that if I ever get busted again at the airport, I can argue with them that the beam is not too strong! The merit of this story is that many people overseas don't have these FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS, and their lives go on just FINE!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Alex, that is an epic travel tip that I have never heard before!

[@mosta2]

very insightful .. congratulations, this is big .. always wondered why I enjoyed walking in foreign country dealing with stuff, it is just making your conscious mind working more and get more alerts

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks PB! Glad it helped you make new connections 😉 no pun intended haha

[@granthurlburt4062]

I agree, particularly about broadening your mind. People are people everywhere - they want to enjoy their lives, develop themselves, raise their families and get along. I met my first Yemeni in Omani, selling french fries. I said "Wow! Yemen!" and he said "Wow! Canada!" and said I must visit Yemen. Now back in Canada, where we have more and more immigrants from the Middle East, seeing women in hijabs gives me a homey feeling after 4 years teaching in Qatar. One thing I saw is no matter how poor people are, they still appreciate art and music. These "intangible" things are important to us all.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great point Grant, everyone can indeed enjoy the intangible things that fills our soul with inspiration & passion. Glad to know that you feel homey in Canada now that they are more immigrants from the middle east. Hope you could travel again soon. Thanks for sharing Grant and stay safe.

[@jangaumont980]

I love these videos. I want to move to Belize as a retired MT from L.A. I moved to Tahoe in my 20's in the 70's. Now I want to be an expat somewhere. I would love to network with expats in Placentia and/or Corozal. Been following Kristin's empowering refreshing videos. So appreciate the wise. seasoned, spirited inspiration. STILL feel I have more adventure to experience, then find my home base away from overpopulated, over gentrified overrated Reno.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You can do it @Jan! I am so glad you love my videos. Have not been to Belize yet but I hope to visit soon. You can always find a few expat community facebook groups online that you can join. 😊 There is so much to see and experience in this world and I appreciate your kind words Jan. You are always welcome here and Thank you!

[@RG-wd6qs]

Thank you for sharing your experiences and your knowledge. If you ever decide to start a travel group, I'm in.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You are very welcome, R G. I have a Facebook group for aspiring digital nomads if you'd like to join? facebook.com/groups/digitalnomadsuccess/

[@myriad860]

you nailed it in this video! thank you! sharing with my wife!!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad it was helpful, Myriad! Hope your wife enjoys it too 😊

[@AC-ny8ce]

What I love about living in a foreign country is the different exciting things we get to see, the people I meet with different lifestyles and perspectives, the smart things some countries do over others, instead of living a routine boring life. And as you said, live for experiences, not material things that keep us stuck to the same old rat race that regardless of how much you make it’s never enough anyways.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So true! I do agree with what you said AC! The excitement & adventure that you keep in your memory. Thanks for sharing 😊

[@gracewright7938]

Living abroad was the best thing that happened to my family. It was like being on vacation everyday. My kids learned a new culture, a new language, learned to be independent and acceptable of other people, their languages and their cultures. I wish I was able to do this now. Best thing was the food, I felt safe, the scenery, the people, the culture, the colors and you feel special when you are an ex-pat; meeting other ex-pats you immediately feel a connection.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So true, thanks for sharing Grace, I am glad that you and your family got to enjoy living abroad learning new cultures, languages and exploring amazing scenery. Hope you guys could travel soon! Stay safe 😊

[@latinaalma1947]

Yes I agree. Learning new things is fun! It does give you a sense of adventure. I feel like a teenager at 73! I have been in Guatemala 20 yrs but lots of things are so different from my first 50 yrs of life that this country has not jaded for me. Also,I have continued to travel in Mexico and Europe alot. Every time I drive into Antigua I am thrilled I live here. IT HAS NEVER GOTTEN STALE. I meet new people from other countires all the time here. My husan and I were at Lake Atitlan on a minivacation recently and met an Egyptian man through his beautiful dog...he was a friend of the owner of the restaurant and we started chatting all of us. He offered us his house to stay in on our next next trip to the lake because he often is not there. These sorts of things never happened to us in the USA. We have met so many wonderful people who have become good friends through travel...it has made our life so much more interesting and fulfilling. ANd yes,you get good at detecting scammers. You just feel more alive when you travel and live abroad . I certainly do at 73....I feel 20 yrs younger than I am. And you do feel more and more competent as you travel. As a retired academic psychologist and researcher I have found it fascinating the similarites between people but also all the differences. Here there are so many people who are happy that most Americans would assume have miserable lives. People with very little can be and often are HAPPIER than quite well off Americans at home. eg The ones I treated in my private practice. The people here arent happier because they are poorer,but because they are happy withtin their family, they appreciate what they DO have, they enjoy so many simple things in life, life is so much more than the accumulation of stuff! You see American life very differently once you have lived abroad. One of the first things you learn living abroad that you keep with you always is that every country has people at all levels of education and sophistication. Guatemala is thought of as a very poor country. THere ARE poor people, but some Americans would consider poor have small farms that sustain them, a house and nothing they have is mortgaged. It is impossible to GET mortgages here, so people build their home a room or floor at a time and many who start out what we would call poor end up comfortable later in life. They take pride in their accomplishments and have great life satisfaction. The professional class here is very like in other countries and they are widely traveled. Most speak English as well as Spanish. Most Americans at home speak only one language. I love that many indigenous Guatemalans are well off and even wealthy. Many indigenous people here are NOT poor....yes many more ARE, but skin color is not such a barrier here as people think, not socially. Many wealthy families have darker and lighter family members because Guatemalans have various mixtures of German, Spanish and indigenous ancestry. One family I know well has a blonde blue eyed white skinned sister, a Spanish looking brother and an indigenous looking brother...all terrific people who love each other and we enjoy their company and feel like part of their family. In my forties I had read and admired Isabel Allende's early magical realism novels of life in Chile and other Latin American language writers as well. As soon as we got to Antigua after putting our sailboat in a marina in Rio Dulce on the Caribbean coast, I fell in love with Antigua. We rented a room in the house of the German looking blue eyed Guatemalan woman next to La. Merced Church.Our plan was to stay two weeks then head north by bus to tour southern Mexico until hurricane season ended. We ended up living with that family for 6 mos and becoming a part of the community here. We were accepted with open hearts by them and everyone in their neighborhood. We left to sail the boat back to Florida, but our hearts remained in Antigua. WIthin a couple of years we sold the boat, moved to Antigua fulltime and bought our own home. Antigua has given us the life we didnt even know we wanted.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Hi Sybil, glad to know you enjoyed your time in all the places you've lived and traveled to. How is life in Antigua? is seems like a lovable island with it's tropical beaches and amazing reefs. Your experiences sounds like an adventure. I appreciate you sharing your insights Sybil especially with your observations and love for Guatemalans. You've made good points too. Hope you are doing great and stay safe 😊

[@oneloren]

One more awesome video! Tks

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You got it! Next one coming this weekend :)

[@liviarivera292]

Kristin I live in Orlando now and even thou there are more people from other countries living here now is still thinking as a small town . I ve had the opportunity to travel a bit and commend your courage to get out the small town mentality ! Continue your successes and travels is enlightening specially in the days of COVID! I hope we meet someday ! Probably when you decide to stabilize in one country you might organize tourist groups to your favorite countries!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Organize tourist groups that's a great idea! Maybe someday! Glad you enjoyed my content Livia! 😀

[@sammiesmith6690]

Traveling 🧳 & living abroad is wonderful. I plan to live abroad again in late 2021.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Go for it Sammie. I hope for the best for you. If you need any help let me know 😊

[@alteredillusions100]

I have seen this video before and It is so awesome I had to watch it again! Great job Kristin!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks so much!!

[@johngentle2943]

Love this video Kristin ! So inspiring :)

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you, John! Glad you enjoyed

[@nebulasy8]

Good video! Deeper than I thought it would be! 👏🏼

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you liked it! Thank you for watching 😊

[@rkornilo]

Lived abroad for 11 years, have been sedentary in the US for a bit as I plot my next move abroad. This most recent experience back here helps to remind me what I like the most about living abroad - variety. Different people, different food, different vistas. When I imagine my outlook in the coming months, I see the same dull image. But when I think about life elsewhere I can't see the image because I don't know what it is I will see and it's THAT unknown the draws me.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You got a point there Ryan. I do resonate with that too, the feeling of adventure. Hope you could travel again soon. Stay safe and thank you for sharing! 😊

[@rkornilo]

@@TravelingwithKristin You're most welcome. My outlook is positive, I passed a major milestone recently and they are continuing with the process. I should be in parts unknown sometime next year. 😎

[@JLandavega]

Thanks for the informative insights Love this

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Anytime, Jaime!

[@mcp2112]

Brilliant insights, thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

My pleasure, Tom!

[@cthoadmin7458]

Hi Kristin, have you ever thought about making a video on reasons why you SHOULDN'T move abroad? I'm sure some people go abroad for the wrong reasons. I know your job is as a relocation consultant, but perhaps there are just as many reasons to stay where you are sometimes, as to leave. Often you're giving up family, familiarity, friends, career, a place on the property ladder (very important if you ever want to return to London, New York, Sydney, LA etc.), and perhaps most of all... home. There's no reason why you can't VISIT places you like: Costa Rica, Portugal, Bali etc. But do you necessarily have to LIVE there to enjoy them?

[@TheOtherChef]

As always a great video Kristin. I'm a chef by trade so when I travel abroad, it's all about the food and cultural things that are different in America.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

So true! I am a massive fan of Chef's Table on Netflix; do you watch that?

[@TheOtherChef]

@@TravelingwithKristin yes and I love it.

[@TheOtherChef]

@@TravelingwithKristin Might I also suggest, Ugly Delicious, Street Food, and The Final Table.

[@doughunter8396]

Very thoughtful and amazing insights!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad you think so!