Amelia Was SO Skeptical about Slow Travel (until now!)

[@jb-qi8fz]

Don't forget that in the 27 Schengen Countries of Europe, a 90 day tourist visa in one country counts as all countries for the 90 day allowance. In other words, people need to look at the 27 countries as only one country.

[@JimmySmith-du7xz]

And... It's 90 days in any 180 day period. You can't do that "stay for 90 days, then go to London for a day, then return" thing any more.

[@paulcoates3860]

Definitely, I'm from uk. N it's a pain..try work your way East Country to country only to be dragged back to uk, or fast forward out of eu n wait 90days b4 allowed back in 😮😢, The man with funny hat n cape demands it 👑 😂

[@leonfrench5872]

having lived 40 years outside the US, I discovered the easiest country to live in is Cambodia. The country offers easy 1 yr multi entry visa ,no assets neccissary. I live a fairly upscale lifestyle for $600 a month denying myself nothing. The country is safe, friendly and the Cambodia wants you to be here and makes its super easy to do so.

[@davidpristupa1629]

Thanks for the info

[@frankkluz9787]

🤔I have to agree with that largely - after researching the entire world for over a year and a half. -- Cambodia's 'retirement visa' (over 55) - stands alone - from all I have seen - which has been my primary focus. -- -- -- Then there is the Philippines 'tourist visa' that allows 3 years ! > Leave for 24 hours - return & do it all over again !!! -- Numbeo lists the Philippines as just a bit cheaper 'cost of living' but not by much. Some really depends on location. -- Both countries people are super friendly - are very welcoming & speak English ! --- I them both and may go back and forth from Siem Reap to the far outskirts of Manila. --?-- My only real complaint with Cambodia is the extreme relentless heat & humidity. -- Whereas -- an hour S of Manila is a 2000 ft. elevation offering an escape from the heat - with cooler weather & clean fresh air with breezes ! Very low costs of living and beautiful scenery as well !!! Closer beach access - but also - with many waterfalls nearby in the mountains.

[@k.k.9897]

Nothing wrong with Cambodia ​@Black_Swan452

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

No one wants to live in Cambodia

[@southernbreeze3278]

I like Cambodia but it's a a bit rough around the edges for a lot of people. also, wouldn't consider Phnom Penh to be particularly safe (got approached by a couple of organ harvesters there once - at least I think they were organ harvesters)

[@Jonnie-qc7tk]

I’m so glad you brought up slow travel. I get so stressed out about getting residency status. I like to travel and be a tourist. That makes me the happiest. I’ve been watching you guys for months. I trust your interest in this. Thank you.

[@CumbiaDancer5678]

Another great video! It's so nice to have KZbinrs that are willing to try to get people to think outside of the box; it's no easy feat. I left Canada on Oct 30, 2014 and started my full time, slow travel adventure. Oct 30, 2024 will be my 10 year anniversary and, I have not had a nanosecond of regret. It took about 3 years for my friends to finally realize that Canada is merely a stopover on my current adventure. Now, the only things they want to know is where I am currently or, where I'll be on certain dates, when they are planning to travel. I have made some incredibly wonderful friends during my travels & can't imagine what my life would be like had I stayed in Canada. Keep smiling & living the dream. It is SO worth it!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Wow! Congrats! We’ve already made some great new friends too! Kindred spirits we would have never met had we stayed home! Ships are safest in the harbor but that’s not what they’re made for! Keep sailing 🥳

[@jessiquilla1]

Wow so cool that you've been slow travelling for 10 years! My husband and I are going to start nomadic slow travel in one year to experience the world and have amazing adventures. We hope to keep going for 10+ years too! Curious, some people say a life of travel can get lonely, not seeing friends and family much. And that staying in each destination for only a while (1 month for ex) makes it hard to make real friends. How did you make friends while travelling, and how do you balance seeing family/friends from home? Thanks!

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

Argentina is extremely flexible on overstaying your 90 day tourist visa. Some just travel to Uruguay from Buenos Aires to renew the tourist visa every 90 days but if you're elsewhere, or don't want to travel to Uruguay, you just overstay. When you leave the country you just pay the fine at the airport. Doesn't matter if it's one day over or years. No one gets upset or arrests you. If you do leave without paying the fine you may not be allowed back in. But if you pay the fine you are welcome to return. Guatemala also lets you do border runs. You can get an extension to stay an extra 90 days in Guatemala City but after 180 days you do have to go to the border. There are even services available who will travel to Guatemala City to get your extension for you. Georgia gives you a year tourist card, renewable at the border. Armenia gives you 6 months. Kyrgyzstan gives you 2 months. So if you do want to stay in one location there are places in the world where you can do so without residency. And while it's certainly more developed in Europe and some of Asia you can get by comfortably in these places.

[@ScottYun]

Albania also gives 1 year tourist visas to US citizens, if you want warmer weather along the Adriatic.

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

@@ScottYun Oops, forgot that one. I spent 2 months there. Nice people. Extremely beautiful countryside.

[@BOULDERGEEK]

From Mendoza you can pop over to Santiago on a $100 direct flight, have a few nice meals or see the ocean, and drop back to reset.

[@capeannsurfersunion5574]

I've been doing the slow travel / digital nomad thing in South America (2 months in Peru and 1.5 Chile) and loving it ... one tip/warning, when you enter Peru (and maybe other countries?), be sure to state your intention to stay the maximum allowed tourist days and get a receipt that documents the days granted. In Peru, you are allowed up to 90 days, but unless you get that in writing, they can randomly grant you as little as 30 days and, on your way out, fine you for the additional days without warning. Even though my plan all along was to stay less than 60 days (and had a flight reservation to prove it), my customs guy in Lima only granted me 45 days without asking anything about my length of intended stay, so when I tried to fly out of Peru after a 57-day stay, the computer said I had overstayed my " tourist visa" and I owed them $15. Paying the small fine was annoying but not a big deal - the problem is they make you use a mobile app that is seriously wonky, and I almost missed my plane. And forget about it if you don't speak fluent Spanish. They ended up making me sign a bunch of papers and finger-printed me bc no one in the Customs office could figure out how to make the app work properly. Oy!!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for the tip! Sounds like a frustrating experience!

[@kateevansnomadicwriter]

It's so fun to see you two promoting your joy to others! My husband and I have been doing a lot of slow travel for a decade, and one of our biggest money-savers is free lodging through housesitting. And often the homeowners let us use their cars, so that's a huge savings as well. Homeowners have also let us use their electric bikes and RVs! We punctuate housesits with rentals and staying with friends so that the availability of sits doesn't rule our itinerary. Another reason I enjoy housesitting is well-stocked kitchens with spices and sharp knives and comfortable furniture (unlike a lot of rentals). And I like the pet sitting that can come along with it since I'm an animal-lover, although we're pretty picky so we're not too bogged down with animal needs. Also, I love living in residential neighborhoods and being immersed in the community, a great way to get a sense of what it's like to live there. The other big way we save money is (sorry, Amelia) carry-ons only, no matter how long we're going and where. Those luggage fees can really add up. And we don't have to worry about our luggage going missing. We're spending 5 months in the UK and Europe starting this summer, and to avoid the problem of bulky clothes we're heading south as the weather cools. But also, like you say, we can always buy something if we need it. I look forward to your next video about the drawbacks. Buen viaje!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for sharing! Great suggestions! Not sure I can convince Amelia to ditch the beauty products and there’s no way they will fit on a roll aboard. 😂

[@caroljordan4316]

Just read your comment and interested to know how you found the uk during summer - was it really busy. We would like to do a few months and drive around the Scottish highlands but concerned it may be too busy with tourists. Where south are you heading when the uk gets cooler?

[@kateevansnomadicwriter]

@@caroljordan4316 Haven't been to Scotland, but England in August was great, except for London, which was a zoo. But the small towns, rural areas, and even seaside areas that had more people were all very nice and not jam-packed. Also...we had a lot of sun!

[@caroljordan4316]

@@kateevansnomadicwriter thank you for your reply

[@melisherwood5300]

I’m looking forward to what you have to say about the negatives of slow travel. I am divided on this topic but for me it has been a little more complicated: I slow travelled through Mexico for about a year and back to my own country, then to the Dominican. I gave up my home base, which does save money as there are no rent, or home costs. However, one thing that is diffcult is if you do it solo, it can get very lonely. Another complexity is that I travel with m;y dog; she is small enough to come into the cabin with me for flights, but. I always have to consider the paperwork that I need for her - even travelling domestically on flights in Mexico, you need a vet certficate. I have to plan my trips in advance, look for dog-friendly places, and consider her well being. I still have one or two places I would like to visit but much prefer very slow travel now, like being in one place for several months. A home base would be nice but that increases expenses tremendously, although a storage locker is a good alternative. I find I buy a lot of small things or some not so small, and end up leaving them behind as they become too much a burden to bring with. It is quite a huge change after living in one place for some time. I do feel though that it does take a lot of energy to constantly negotiate so many new situations, places, people, languages, etc. I currently speak 4 languages, althugh not all fluently but am constantly trying to improve them. It’s kind of like being on a constant vacation but now I feel I need a vacation from my vacation.

[@fernwebb5568]

I am Practicing slow travel in the states. Just sold the house and walked away from all my stuff. Shedding what is left with the goal of taking flights. I like making fluid plans. Learning a lot and picked up more tips from you. I stay a week to a month. In the mountains right now. I am free. It is cheaper.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Sounds great! Congrats! 🥳

[@jotsandtittles]

Glad you've finally converted! haha Srsly, though, we started watching your channel years ago, when we were planning a slomad life and you were settling into Cuenca. We finally went to Cuenca for three months last year and had some issues (not all were related to conditions there, though some were). Meanwhile, you've caught the slomad bug! All the tips you give in this video about slomad travel are good. Also, the sooner you make peace with a classic, limited wardrobe, the better for minimalism and the environment. Amelia, my scarf wardrobe goes a long way by keeping me happy with my basics. Having my hair straightened regularly was also a big help to travelling lightly. Greetings from Vietnam! Keep 'em coming!

[@MaryBartnikowski]

I stayed in Cambodia two times for 2 months each time. Its one of my favorite countries, easy and low cost. I also slow travel and love it! Ciao from Sicily.

[@synewparadigm]

The Cambodian food is fantastic!

[@paulyeatman303]

I don't think we can slow travel. I'm 77 & in good health, but I love living in Mexico so much. There's just so much to see in this country. We lived in Costa Rica for 12 years & also spent a month in Nicaragua. The rest has been Mexico, & 50 years ago I graduated from a Mexican University. We also have some pets & that can muddy the waters too

[@christopherhouse7937]

Is Nicaragua worth visiting? I have heard great things about Nicaragua! 🇳🇮

[@dlwilliamson5644]

I have a pet (very quiet dog that helps my balance). Please explain a wee bit of the muddy waters. Thank you!

[@timmaloney6441]

@@dlwilliamson5644 I think they meant , ' makes Traveling difficult' , I can relate .

[@photopro100]

Did you slow travel before? How much harder is it in the later years?

[@dlwilliamson5644]

@@timmaloney6441 Thank you. Earl is a great dog and I have worked daily to train him to be a good citizen. 🐾

[@DaleDucarme]

I have been following you now for a number of years. You were my inspiration for a winter in Ecuador in 2022. Unfortunately the altitude was not for my partner. Still a traveller I am addicted to your channel and so glad you have branched out in your travels. I am intrigued with the idea of slow travel and wonder what medical insurance companies do consummate travellers utilize? Keep up the great videos as you are changing lives!

[@Allthe6s]

This Vlog is fantastic just for the advice of chasing the sun in the summertime because you’re traveling light and summer clothes take up less space. Brilliant brilliant brilliant brilliant I love you two! How did you find each other?

[@JuanNunez-qo6ii]

Im 46 and partially retired since 2020, a MX citizen with 3 teenagers underr my belt. Have already taken my older daughter for her quinceañera trip and went to Brazil, Chile, Peru and Colombia we will be doing a temporary stay in Canada so the 3 can improve their language skilss and then move somewhere else. My daughter is amazed after discovering portuguese first hand, we may try to get a residency in SouthAmerica or Spain/Portugal after Canada; this is their inheritance they will get from me: a different mindset, ready to call home anywhere else. Cheers!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That’s a great gift!

[@juanb89018]

I loved this video! Refusing to enroll in a forever rent/mortgage payment is the best decision I ever made. Now I either stay with family around the world for weeks at a time or make trips to new places and pay for short term airbnbs.. My sisters and parents love hosting me b/c I bring gifts, help out around the house, and pitch in with groceries and other expenses.. it really is a win win!anyone else think this American dream of spending a fortune and getting in debt to buy a house and car that come with forever added expenses (taxes, insurance, maintenance) is a massive scam?

[@artbrutnewyork]

Great tips! Yes, slow travel is a perfect antidote to costly visa residency requirements and complex tax implications. I think a lot of people are reluctant to commit to a slow travel lifestyle because they are terrified by the prospect of not having a “home base”. Maybe you can do a video about how to overcome this fear. Many people can’t afford to maintain a home base and travel….it’s either one or the other.

[@melisherwood5300]

Very true. This is what I am finding since giving up my home base. It is cheaper but it is a strange feeling to be a full-time nomad.

[@vmoses1979]

As with anything you will get tired living out of one suitcase and not being able to build connections beyond shallow transient ones. But enjoy it as long as you can. All journeys come to an end.

[@allyson1691]

Yeah I started slow travelling and suddenly found myself not wanting to move again so soon. After the anticipation of ‘the world is my oyster’ I couldn’t bear the thought of moving yet again and unpacking again. I also fell in love with Mexico, extended my apartment rental indefinitely and got my residency. Now after 8 months my feet are starting to mildly itch again for Europe. It’s important to honour how you are feeling in the moment.

[@melisherwood5300]

@@allyson1691 I have been there and am feeling tired of packing/unpacking. But I still haven’t found a place where I want to stay permanently.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great suggestion! 👍

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

This is excellent advise. I might ad an upscale twist. Ive lived in Thailand 🇹🇭 for 8 years on a retirement visa. As a real-estate investor. I own a 3 bed 3 bath home in Chiangmai, 2000 sqft furnished upscale home only $115,000 no property tax no home insurance which is an American scam.. Live alittle less than 6 months a year there. This home base allows me to keep my family heirlooms, cloths, important documents etc. It also gives me an anchor to family and a traditional lifestyle then its cheeper to stay 90 days on a apartment lease for 90 days. Little less than 6 months in Thailand, 3 months in Da Nang Vietnam, 3 months in Europe and 1 week vist to family and friends in the USA. No state taxes and no HIGH American prices. I love this type of very slow traveling 😌

[@allyson1691]

You seem to have cracked the code

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@@allyson1691 We all like to travel. So why should we declare a permanent residency in one country and fall victim to taxation?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That’s our goal, too. We would like to have 3 home bases 👍

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@AmeliaAndJP I used to think about three home bases but I found some of the countries that I really love are not good countries to buy real estate in. I have learned at 70 years of age.It's not cost-effective to own real estate.It's actually much cheaper to rent in some countries.Than it is to buy. Since I have one home that I own, it allows me restore my precious belongings there. And travel and rent elsewhere.. You might think about that. Obtw you have a great chanel

[@ScottBogle]

@@DavidWilliams-qr5yj We are trying to do the same but having issues with US admin (banking, etc) given we no longer own a residence in US.

[@Jorge-e4c2l]

"Slow Ride. Take It Easy" -Foghat. Amelia & J.P. yall are inspirational, and I think you're on to something. I enjoy your travels, and truly appreciate your perspective on the locations you explore.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@pippigreenheart]

Love this idea! Currently doing 6 months in Ecuador and 5 months in Argentina and visiting family in the USA for a month.

[@elcubanito2442]

Excellent choices.

[@christopherhouse7937]

So what country do you prefer Ecuador or Argentina? If you were to get Temporary residency!

[@pippigreenheart]

@@christopherhouse7937 I have permanent residence in Ecuador. Argentina has more lenient laws about coming and going.

[@christopherhouse7937]

@@pippigreenheart As far as everyday life! All things considered do you feel happier in Ecuador or Argentina, and why?

[@pippigreenheart]

​@@christopherhouse7937 I love both the beach and the big city life so I need both places. The quiet nature and museums/concerts... How about you?

[@kevinreist7718]

Slow travel is how my wife and I do the snowbird thing every year. We leave Michigan and travel around Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida in our motor home staying at several different RV Parks for a couple weeks to a month or so at a time. She has relatives in that part of the country that we visit during our travels. In the colder months we are farther South. around Thanksgiving (on the way down) and around St Valentine's day (on the way back up again) we may be as far north as Kentucky, because she also has relatives there. Most RV parks up north aren't even open in the winter months, so you have to be further south around Christmas and New Year's Day. It's usually a pretty good time. Only drawback, the motor home isn't very fuel efficient. So gas can really cost some serious money. That's why you stay for more than just a night or two because travel days are quite expensive. Also after COVID, RV parks in the states did raise their rates quite a bit due to higher demand. Many people decided they would rather travel and sleep in their own RV during a pandemic than sleep in a motel where you have no idea who was sleeping in that bed and on that pillow last night. Good video, I gave it a like.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That sounds like fun and a great way to escape the brutal winters up north!

[@elisabethmiller8335]

Good video! I was going to slow travel after retiring at the end of 2019, but then Covid hit! So I ended up buying a house and gaining permanent residency in Mexico. Now I am thinking about renting out my house long term and start my slow travel adventure!

[@anthonybutler3157]

Interesting video. Looks intriguing for many but not for us. Our temperment likes to be rooted. Freedom can be seen as being without restraints or integrating oneself into a new culture. We love the deep navigation of a new adventure. We feel the need for a community broader than just each other. Though money is important saving is not our priority only having enough to have a comfortable lifestyle. Greetings from portugal; five years here.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Living life on your own terms is freedom. Congrats! 🥳

[@sharonsmall1940]

Slow travel will be my thing for the next few years. I love where I live in the USA because as a single person who loves the arts, it is the the most exciting city.

[@timmaloney6441]

NY ? or Chicago

[@wesgraham2262]

Longtime subscriber here… You’re true vagabonds by definition and as such are also minimalists. Good for you. So am I. One medium/large suitcase and a backpack. That’s all I own in the world. In the last year, I’ve lived in Thailand, Malaysia and now Cambodia!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Congrats! It’s fun to LIVE in different places! It’s like Quantum Leap 😁

[@Travel_Explore_Grow]

You both are amazing! Love the idea of slow traveling the world as well. My wife and I will be doing this exact thing in 5 years or less. Early retirement will be a crazy fun new adventure. You both be safe and keep making amazing youtube content!

[@russcollar5353]

Thank you two once again! Seems you rolling well with choices. Your shows are at a higher level now. Congrats and what a pleasure!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you very much!

[@ScottYun]

Last year was India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, and Thailand again. This year starts with Malaysia, with plans for Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines afterwards. Land travel - bus, van and train - is the cheap way to go. Long international flights usually allow two checked bags included in the ticket price. Short hop flights generally include zero or one checked bag, so you'll have to pay for any extra bags. You'll most likely will have to pay extra for a second bag as well with land transportation, but the total land cost will probably be less than just the air extra baggage fee. I'll find out about sea travel costs later, as I plan take ferry from Singapore to Jakarta, Indonesia; but I'm thinking that ferry costs less than air as well, since weight is less of an issue on ships.

[@hanslueschen5190]

I like this concept a lot...slomad . We're not able to handle long flights anymore and are not ready to pull up stakes and commit to another country. No pets now so that frees us up. Thanks!

[@kirbyesque]

I love that you talk about getting rid of your belongings. I still have teenagers at home, but I’ve never been one to accumulate things. I love the idea of being free to travel, without worrying about paying for a storage space. I’ve traveled quite a bit and I typically focus on experiencing neighborhoods, hiking and taking photos, not shopping. I’ve always met people, either other travelers or locals, who want to connect. Can’t wait to start traveling.

[@ebouwens]

Excellent video. Your point about cooking is so important. Cooking, food and markets are a huge part of any culture. You could make an argument that agriculture is the core of culture. Anyone interested in a deep dive to a local culture would be wise to take this advice.

[@DavidTimney]

It would be nice to see the path of your travels.

[@ExploreTayo]

Welcome to the joys of Slow Travel, we've been loving it for almost 3 years!

[@Goodstone79Class]

Hey Guys, love your videos. Can't wait to slow travel myself someday. You referred to the tax Form 673 to claim a foreign earned income exclusion (5 min, 25 sec). That is the one that lets you get a tax exclusion for the first 120k+ (amount increases each year) if you're outside the USA for 330 days. However, that only applies if you are earning income (wages/salary) from an employer. I use the 673 because I'm a US citizen who works outside the USA. However, once I stop working, I can't use the 673 income exclusion anymore.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It also applies if you’re self employed for an LLC. As the name implies, it’s only for earned income. Not investment or pension income.

[@lapantera2022]

Great video! I am seriously considering making the leap. I too, ( as you have) live in Colorado, currently the Springs - and can't wait to get out - in July when my lease expires! I want to bucket list Barcelona and Italy. I would love to say I traveled abroad for at least a year. Have looked at Mexico, Panam and Ecuador but with residency visa changes and increased safety issues, I am unsettled on a permanent home.... Thanks again for the video and encourage ment! Ron

[@lindadorman2869]

Ever since getting priced out of a Malaysian visa, I decided to adopt the slow travel strategy. I'm keeping my studio apartment rental in Chicago as a home base so I have a physical address since I have to pay US tax anyway. That way, I have a place to keep my stuff plus continue to run my home-based (but not remote) business to earn extra income. Then I'll stay a few months in Asia and a few months in Europe each year. I'm 63 and want to travel for 7 more years, and then decide where to settle down.

[@chriswhite1417]

Very interesting. Thank you. Something my wife and I have been considering for some time around Asia in particular. I think another great benefit of slow travel is that of new experiences keeping one young mentally.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Totally agree!

[@davidh7799]

Thank you for the terrific video. I envision slow traveling, so this is nice encouragement for me. I would spend most of my time in Europe, except that the Schengan Area makes that an undoable idea. How exasperating.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

There are several countries in Europe that aren’t part of Schengen so we’re spending our off months in those.

[@davidh7799]

@@AmeliaAndJP (smile) I've thought about Albania, North Macedonia, Romania, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Georgia. I've heard Germany is coming up with the Opportunity Visa! Only have to work 20 hours a week, part-time with the Opportunity Visa. That seems very doable. Not happy with how Germany is deindustrializing because of its horrendous energy crunch, and that will increase unemployment.

[@rositahl]

This is our preferred choice as of today. Initially thought about Portugal or Spain to settle in but the slow travel idea is growing more and more in us.

[@photopro100]

Would be interesting to do it between both places. They seem to change laws often. Income tax is higher is you stay too long even though some people think because of tax treaties that makes it favorable. Paying tax between home and another country is still more tax since it is not less than the tax at home.

[@GarryMikal]

Great video! I have been doing this for a few months now and it is fantastic. Just finished up three wonderful months in Argentina and moved on to Chile! I watched some of your videos a while back and I've been posting my whole trip on youtube just like you two. thanks for the inspiration!

[@shea5702]

I am currently in Albania largely based on one of your videos. I am ready to slow travel. When will you address finding lodging while slow traveling? That is the biggest expense. Love your videos.

[@sammiesmith6690]

We as Americans can do three months in Australia 🇦🇺 & New Zealand 🇳🇿. I did three months in Spain 🇪🇸 & it was wonderful.

[@flutingaround]

I've been a Slomad since 2016. The things I miss the most about having a home base is having a cat and a blender. It's also complicated to continue my outdoor hobbies without gear storage, so I finally invested in renting a storage unit for that.

[@BOULDERGEEK]

We have been leaving the US with these $19 Black & Decker small blenders. They pack very small in suitcases and we just leave them with friends in various countries. We have boxes stashed all over the place. Downside of our blenders is you need a step down transformer in 240V places.

[@MonkeyhammerTP]

I have a cat that will be 18 yrs old this year. I have been putting travel plans on hold for years because I will not leave him behind. Once my kitty goes to kitty heaven, I am packing my bags and off I go.

[@petersvoboda4421]

I commented on your video from Denver, this time from E.U. I am glad for you that you got it. Trust me, Spain is the country for you. I spent a lot of time there and will go back again. Good luck to you guys.

[@synewparadigm]

Too expensive.

[@mconnors211]

JP and Amelia - I’ve been a huge fan for years ( and unless you tell me otherwise, I’m still contributing to your patreon - it’s so hard to keep track these days). At any rate, you absolutely scored with SLOW TRAVEL!! I’m a federal govt employee, and my friends and I have been talking about this for years!! I first got hooked on your Ecuador videos, and kept watching - but knew SLOW TRAVEL was for me and my wife (Amelia: I still need you to help convince my wife about the single suitcase). Guys - this is not just a Home Run - you nailed a GSHR with this one - truly!!! So glad you guys are safely out of Ecuador, and keep doing what you do - it’s beyond great!!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks! We’re really enjoying this adventure! 😊

[@mohammedsharif2651]

Great way to travel if you can physically and mentally deal with it. Thank you for another fantastic video. 😀🙏👏

[@timgillman]

We spent four months last year and so far three months this year traveling. I bought a travel pillow (wraps around your neck) at a garage sale and unzipped it and pulled out the stuffing. My down jacket fits inside perfectly and it is still comfortable as a pillow. I pair that with a very light weight rain jacket for any cold weather.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great idea!

[@Sherlonkah]

Looking forward to the discussion on budget for the slow travel you're experiencing.

[@davidleong6606]

Thx for introducing the concept of a non committal option!! Could you pls. cover what you as a couple should do regarding how you find affordable lodging and medical care and health insurance? Thx!!!🙏🏼 ( i apologize if you covered this already)

[@deebee2603]

I love you two and am so happy you are having the time of your lives exploring new places and enjoying real freedom. 💕 Some of us have pets (I know you did too), and will be having them for years to come. I will not be adding new fur babies to the family, when my old ones pass, but do have a younger dog that (hopefully) will be around for some time. Also, some people love gardening, or remodeling and decorating their new place. They adore "nesting." Slow travel is not an option for me, although I get why it could be an exciting idea for others.

[@mikehunt5637]

Warren and Julie (Travel with Warren and Julie on KZbin I "think") slow travel with pets. You should check them out.

[@fordwayne3833]

Since I know I want to travel mostly in Europe, choosing a low cost home base in Europe is optimal. Thanks for all the great resources.

[@judymckee5992]

My husband and myself lived like this for 8 years, I think it is cheaper and a free vacation.

[@12yearssober]

What countries did you guys visit?

[@judymckee5992]

@@12yearssober,All of Europe,scandinavia, UK, canaries, Costa Rica,nicaragua, 15 States in USA ( 17k miles driving ) ,Singapore, Malaysia

[@actionvj]

I wish you guys would have put some of the names of the cities we were seeing in the video up in the corner. Some of these look pretty awesome. Great video and info.

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

I've watched this multiple times👍💪📺

[@garlandetheridge9902]

One of you're best vids an I have been with you from the very start.. I am a one suitcase nomad and have been for the past14 yrs. Thanks for sharing.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Wow, thanks!

[@beththomas6514]

You two look so relaxed and happy. Thanks for the great tips. Love the suggestion at minute 7:05! I'm still trying to convince my partner to do slow travel, which I'd be set up to start in early fall of next year.

[@Bigd0gg]

Great travel advise- looking great!

[@messyhomestead7320]

Thanks for the video on packing! That's the main thing I've worried about in feasibility terms. Chasing the sun is a great idea to keep body stress and packing stress minimal. Also, just a note that the reason so many donation bins are everywhere now is NOT because you are donating to a nonprofit organization in most cases (if you check the bin you'll notice they mostly do not say they are nonprofit). They are mostly huge for-profit conglomerates masquerading as what we all assume are nonprofits and then upcycling (which is sometimes to say destroying, using a lot of water and toxic chemicals their sweatshop workers have to deal with, and remaking fabrics) into something else. So it's actually way less ecofriendly or human rights friendly than we think. Taking a little extra time to find a faith community or local nonprofit to donate to directly gives us the opportunity to connect in a really meaningful way to the community we are visiting without giving to faceless greedhogs who are treating workers inhumanely and doing the same to the planet. Not a fun fact, I know, but really cool to consider getting to know a local place that's helping

[@Lilvinglovingtraveling]

I love this idea of slow travel. Looking forward to learning more about it. So far it makes so much sense.

[@IFSTherapyRealResults]

Yes, interested... Bucket List: Albania, Turkey, Croatia, Bulgaria, Italy, Spain Portugal....then on the other side...Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia

[@Mike-u9b3m]

When you enter a foreign country, check to see how many days the immigration officer gives you on your visa. I remember reading somewhere that someone entered Mexico, and was given only 14 days on a tourist visa, but he/she assumed 90 days. When that person departed Mexico, they were fined for an overstay.

[@budawang77]

You have a real knack for being succinct while covering all the important points. I think slow travel or part time expatriation is the way to go for a lot of people. One downside for me, however, is missing out on the sense of community which you have with a more permanent base. I currently have a home base where I spend about half the year and when I’m in Canberra I really appreciate catching up with friends for a cup of coffee, a game of tennis or volunteering. I guess you can partially compensate for this when you’re on the road through the judicious use of social media. I’d appreciate your thoughts on maintaining a sense of community and belonging while enjoying the benefits of slow travel. Thanks.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That is a drawback. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@budawang77]

@@AmeliaAndJP Thanks guys. I thought of another advantage: it could be easier to spend time in countries you may not have thought of visiting otherwise. For instance, you could do some house sitting here in Australia. A lot of people are looking for house sitters which would make a visit here very affordable. I think you might love it!

[@richexperiences1]

Buy something new, donate something used. Great philosophy!

[@Factsmatter626]

We retired in January and got a long-stay visa for France. We wanted a Europe base to travel from. The process was not difficult and income limits very accessible for most folks.

[@jadelindquist8799]

Love your videos! I know that health coverage is often much more affordable in much of the world compared with the US . Do you and other slow travel nomads think that $50k of travel insurance is enough for most situations?

[@nadjagonzalez1832]

Thanks for the video. I’m a newish follower. I would love more info on slow travel. Europe and Asia are our preferred places. Happy travels 🎉

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Welcome! We’ll be filming Europe and Asia for the rest of the year before heading back to the Americas.

[@generationjones-le8ge]

Hello from Ecuador. For 12 years before I obtained my residence visa through my wife, I lived full time in Ecuador with a missionary visa. I had to renew it every two years. The organization I worked with had legal standing in the country that allowed me to live here long-term as a non resident.

[@rlabrune]

What about cost (lodging) for slow stays? Is it not more expensive than long stays? And how do you find good deals on places to stay? Do hotels offer deals on slow stays? This would make for a great video to cover in the future. I found this video very interesting. Thanks!

[@thinkforyourself9334]

Book an Airbnb. Monthly discounts are given on stays 28 days or more. One can save a lot of money doing it that way

[@janethiggins2725]

Let me start by saying I love your content very informative. If you don't mind ne asking is there a particular website use use to find these rental properties for the different countries you guys travel to? Thank you in advanced.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We use Airbnb.

[@janethiggins2725]

I appreciate your response. Thank You

[@saga4646]

You two are just adorable. I was planning on retiring abroad but like you said things are just not as affordable as before so I think I'll do this route for a bit until I figure out where I want to land.

[@norandomevents]

Many greetings to you both, I have so enjoyed your evolving content and the wonderful explorative videos. Thank you for sharing this interesting concept!

[@contactsuzi7096]

These "slow travel" videos are so much fun...I'm sharing them with my husband hoping that he'll come around to giving it a try. I hope you get to the Netherlands. Love to You Both. Suzi

[@rogerjackson3227]

I’m sharing with wife, she thinks we will be mutilated if we leave the safety (lol) of the US

[@fdm2155]

I haven't retired yet but I've been spending a month or so in countries that interest me. One summer it was Mexico, the next summer it was Colombia. It is helpful to know you don't have to rush around seeing all the touristy stuff in a week or 10 days. You can relax and et to know the area a bit.

[@DesMoinesHomeDeals]

Great channel guys! I like how you move through the subject content quick and concise. Nice work!

[@robertjordan294]

How do you find a place to stay in the next country, especially if you want a kitchen? Isn't AirBnB going to be much more than if you had a years lease? What about medical and insurance? I have glaucoma. They check my field of vision every six months. I also need eye drops to control the pressures. I suppose all of this is manageable.

[@m532198]

Great advice. Having lived i Germany for 5 years, a good place to shop for inexpensive clothes is thrift stores.

[@dennispack4119]

You’ve been reading my comments over the past few years! 😊 Several times I mentioned this concept, even though I have been spending most of my time in Australia (I have dual US/Australian citizenship). Since 2019 I've managed to circle the globe 3 times (mostly because I had to return to the US 3 times for family reasons), twice in the easterly direction, and once westerly. Last year was my first visit to SE Asia, and I can't wait to return. Since I returned to Australia last December I have sold what remained of my "stuff" and purchased a carry-on bag that is big enough to hold everything I "need". (I'm happy to support the local economies by purchasing anything extra I might need). Not having to check-in a bag is much more economical. In May I will be in the US for my son's birthday, and from there I'll be heading to Vietnam in June. At this stage I have no plans to leave SE Asia, and will be living "slowly" throughout the countries there (and want to include a trip to China as well). If you come to SE Asia I'd love to buy you a real coffee ... and share some stories. Looking forward to your upcoming videos. Hasta.

[@sandycollins3613]

I super enjoy watching your videos, they are short and straight to the point. What an amazing life you're living! Bravo 👏

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks! 😊

[@ronaldhandyjr6602]

`Damn, I wish I could slow travel... I have too many things tying me to Costa Rica, like my wife would not go for it, my cats, my CR bank, the houses we own, family and many other factors that keep me here.... I guess I'll just have to live vicariously thru you guys, DAMN I AM JEALOUS!!!

[@aljorgy2310]

Great video! Ecuador was getting too criminal? 😊😊😊

[@adglennon]

Perfect timing as I'm considering slow travel when I retire in a couple years and put my home up as a corporate rental while I'm away. It should more than pay for my bills for the entire year.

[@Curious859]

Thank you! I have one question here for you; you’re travelling to different countries. What do you do with the phone and especially about receiving verification code from you banks? Have you already done a video on that? With all the “For your safety” crap and the two factor verifications, life has become 1000 times more difficult than before and I always wonder what do people do when they travel. I’m not a tech savvy, so, please, if you or anyone here has a simple solution, talk to me like I’m two years old.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We still have a Verizon phones from the US and use WiFi Calling to get the messages. It’s not an ideal solution due to the cost, but we still need the phones for work/business anyway.

[@mulan10003]

I was just thinking of the same idea when I opened this video ! 😊

[@davidburke2697]

This is my plan, thanks for the endorsement.

[@martypoll]

It takes a certain personality type to move overseas. A subset of expats enjoy slow travel but not me. I have a home in Thailand and in the past 7 years have only traveled to other countries a couple of weeks per year. Vagabond Awake is a great KZbin channel about slow travel.

[@erinaustin9968]

Slow traveling now! I like the variety but I do plan ahead. Too many issues and unknown costs to pop up otherwise. We’re in South America and love it.

[@photopro100]

I was just thinking of slow travel since residency visas change and who wants to be a tax resident at home and abroad. I already did some of it while exploring. I learned that less is better. It was hard to get down to a carry-on luggage; however, a small backpack and waist pack helped. Don’t know how you resist the temptation to shop and end up with more things. There are so many interesting things to buy and I don’t look to shop. In one situation, I bought nicer luggage and donated the luggage I had. In the Winter I had a coat with lots of large pockets to stuff things in them.

[@ronaldcole3513]

Thank you so much for sharing. I always thought slow travel was the best way to go, I didn't realize it was called slow travel. I'm thinking of doing a month in 3 Schengen counties and move on to South America and spend a month in Panama, Peru and one more county undecided at the moment. Then travel over to Asia Bali, Malayasia and Thailand. Then head back home to make some more money. Lol... Thank you

[@Not_your_cup_of_tea]

My husband and I are exploring living outside the US- my question is about “your stuff”. Did you sell everything before you left the US? Where do you store your winter clothes when traveling in warmer climate and vise versa? Did you import anything you kept in the US? Thanks for the suggestions and love your channel

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We have very few things left. Extra clothes are at my parents house. We have some things at a friend’s house in Ecuador.

[@judykinsman3258]

Love, love, loved this video. Excited to hear more. Thanks! You’re the best!

[@palolomita6512]

Speaking of clothes, Istanbul is a fantastic place to buy clothes! Türkiye has a large textiles industry which produces attractive clothes made of cotton grown domestically. There's a lot of shops, good chains like LC Waikiki and Koton and the Turkish brands are of higher quality cotton while simultaneously costing just 1/2 or 1/3 the price of Zara or H&M. Plenty of boutiques too and with Amelia's good figure she could do well at the fashionable boutiques.

[@Kevin-et5zs]

It works for me! Two or three months are good, and had I not done that from Chile, I wouldn't have found the better countries of Argentina and Peru!

[@carmenzaldivar4393]

Congrats. I'm looking forward to see your videos

[@marytica123]

WHEN LIVING IN COSTA RICA, we met a nice German / Chinese couple who actually did the "slow travel" routine for YEARS ! Since they had German and American passports. they were able to go from Spain to Italy, and back again. They also lived in Costa Rica and then Panama, then back to CR. Currently, they are living in Spain - but who knows which country will be NEXT ?

[@gregdean8720]

Its fun to see how you travel style has changed. I was curious how you keep your slow travel spontaneous while managing costs. It seems like AirBnbs monthly rates are generally about 1/2 the weekly rate. I've been slow traveling alternating betwwen 3 months domestic and 3 months international. Each 3 month trip will tend to focus on one region although I might visit different countries in that region, staying at each for a month. I think it would be fun to be more spontaneous, but nice monthly AirBnbs spots seem difficult to get last minute. Of course South America and Asia can be lower cost overall. Any spontaneous slow travel tactics that you can share?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We’ve found that there is no additional monthly discount over the weekly discount so we always stay at least a week but usually 2 or 3 weeks. We used to see that but not anymore. Or maybe it’s not common in Europe.

[@wesgraham2262]

You guys are doing the same thing as I have done off & on since early 2011. Wish I could join you guys on your “slow travel” adventures!

[@LoriQuaid]

You mentioned that there was a link in the description about how you pack for your adventures, but I didn't see it anywhere.

[@petrobull2560]

Slow travel sounds great! Some places I want to visit are UK, Georgia, Spain, Portugal, Dubai, Panama, Chile, Sao Paulo, Rio De Janeiro, Iceland, and Ireland! Lol, I will be busy for a while with this list.😂

[@chimneyrock123]

Good for u guys!

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

We just finished 11 months in Nicaragua. Now we have been in Guatemala for two months and we will be here for at least a year. We plan to travel for a few years between Mexico and Argentina….then maybe a couple years slow traveling SE Asia. ( but worry about heat n humidity ). The only downside I see about just staying a month or two would be rents increase for shorter stays and shorter stays also may mean more costly flights.