4 Uncomfortable Truths about Retiring Overseas + Living Abroad (It can get lonely!)

[@JeanVoronkova]

Was loneliness part of your time abroad too? 😊 To get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare ► skl.sh/jeanvoronkova08231 🎉

[@shapeoftimes]

We currently live in Canada but consider retiring in Europe 🙂

[@durianwalker]

"We're born alone, we live alone, we die alone. Only through our love and friendship can we create the illusion for the moment that we're not alone."

[@eri9954]

@durianwalker.... we're alone when we are not in our heart and when we are not present in the present moment ❤

[@tonyh241]

i don't live alone

[@dr.heatherhh5]

This seems like the worst period. Even the market are now very unpredictable. Started investing recently when the market prices were a bit high, today I am more than 60% down!

[@toulahen-sd6zk]

Don't be confuse buying the dip in a bear market, with guaranteed future returns. Just because that company is down 60% + from ATH does NOT make it a sound long-term investment. Make sure you're investing in great companies. kudos to Sylvia nicolas.

[@darrenmoore-xx5rc]

I agree just reached my goal of $500k monthly trade earnings. Setting realistic goals is an essential part of trading.

[@dr.heatherhh5]

please educate me, i am willing to make consultation to improve my situation.

[@toulahen-sd6zk]

Woah for real? I'm super excited. sylvia nicolas strategy has normalized winning trades for me also. and it's a huge milestone for me looking back to how it all started

[@mark-fm6ey]

Hello from Australia. It is really refreshing to see a comment about Sylvia Nicolas. I have worked with her also. her approach consistently keeps you ahead of the trend, She's the best i'll say..

[@lacekratochvil]

I am married to a Filipina (together with dating for 7 years now), last year we moved to Philippines Camotes island, we got built a beach house here. Internet is very poor here so we have Starlink. We both work remotely in Czech Republic (my home country) companies as software developers. Those companies are in fact a USA and UK company branches. Still we plan to spend future summers in Czech as some travelling in Europe is also interesting.

[@megathy43]

Jean, I love how thoughtfully you express yourself. The truth of what you say comes through loud and clear. I'm coming in September for a month-long visit and it will give me an idea how it would be living away from where I grew up and lived for my past 80 years. I tend to be a loner, so much of what you've said won't bother me too much, but I am really glad to hear what you've learned. It gives me a lot to think about. Your vlogs are always insightful and warm-hearted. Thanks so much!❤❤❤

[@JeanVoronkova]

hi Meg thanks for the kind msg :) glad the videos help you 🌻

[@LeoR4U]

“Life is organic and full of change.” So true.

[@AndrewTube]

the loneliness aspect is very true! its not easy to find and belong to a community

[@TizetaWodajo]

Jean - you are spot on! You’re so bright and grounded. I spent 9 years overseas in the foreign service. Now I just semi retired at 55. Decided to pay off my condo near Washington DC and take longer term vacations with the passive income. I love hearing your insights. All the best - Tizeta Keep up the quality content!

[@adammorra3813]

I love this video. Honest, raw, and relatable. I’ve gone through all of these living and working in Switzerland for the past 3 years. I am going back to US at the end of the year but it made me re-consider retiring abroad. Would love to see more of these videos that balance the positives and negatives of living abroad.

[@hubertcumberdale2651]

Real talk, "friends" are forever so to speak, but they just simply are not a guiding force in your life past age 25. After 30, you'll find that you really don't meet up with them in person all that much anymore as life gets in the way. Case in point, don't let those two or three "how's life?" buddies you meet up with twice a month at most be all that stops you from moving to the place you really like.

[@deboraleggerini5729]

Agreed!

[@33Jenesis]

I moved to US at 19, had experienced all your points. Being an introvert did help while I was a mute. I wasn’t keen on being the life of the social scene so I just listened and silently crafted replies that never got out (by the time I was ready, convo had moved on). I didn’t revisit my home country often but when I did I felt more like a tourist. Lost touch with family members and friends was all but a certainty. I am retired now. Plan B is to move back when I get too old to be living alone. The nursing home is much cheaper and healthcare speedier there. If it happened, my life would come full circle; 2 suitcases when I migrated and 2 suitcases when I return home.

[@JeanVoronkova]

love this msg and how you put it. Full circles in life are so very poetic and poignant when it happens to us.

[@Nicolololol98]

Thanks for sharing Jean! I always feel like watching your videos feels like talking to a reliable and good old friend. I just moved to Jakarta from Sweden a year ago and can relate to all of your points. Visiting home especially makes you realize how much you change while other things don’t.

[@JeanVoronkova]

thanks glad the video resonated! Having things back home stay pretty constant is both comforting but also sad at the same time.

[@jmcgin1453]

From my observation, the best places to settle or potentially retire are the places no one is talking about or considering moving to. If a particular spot has everyone moving to it and it's all over media, chances are it's on the road to being ruined within the next few decades. Great video and I like hearing your perspective.

[@hubertcumberdale2651]

Bali, Medellin, Chiang Mai, Mexico City, Playa Del Carmen, Oaxaca. Add more.

[@silverwolf2643]

Yeah mostly cause of freaking youtubers bragging how cheap somewhere is. Tons of people go there to spend, create businesses, buy properties, demand skyrockets, and suddenly it's not cheap anymore.

[@hubertcumberdale2651]

@@silverwolf2643 Mexico was the travel darling during the pandemic. It went from cheap to not so cheap in a measly three years

[@silverwolf2643]

@@hubertcumberdale2651 Portugal is apparently an expensive mess now also.

[@hubertcumberdale2651]

@@silverwolf2643 When every single mainstream Alphabet Soup news network in the USA was talking about Portugal so much, I already knew the place was ruined.

[@orlymarq6238]

I am moving Down south to Guatemala where life is so much better and convenient. People are friendlier and kind than where I live( USA) . I am totally over . Things are getting very expensive , services such as Cable, Energy, Gas, fuel , Car Insurance/ Home Insurance/ Property taxes/ state taxes and so forth are eating my savings . By the way , I just found your channel! Great information

[@JeanVoronkova]

geoarbitrage makes so much sense if one is happy or willing to explore geographical alternatives. it's certainly worked out very well for us.

[@IamWanderwoman]

I love your vibe, I spent 8ish months in Bali and can relate a lot to what you're saying.

[@plisboa1234]

I just came across your channel and this video was really touching! I’ve lived abroad for 17 years and it’s the first time I hear someone talk so openly about being “other” when you visit your home country. So true! This video is spot on on everything and I love your perspective on all points! Thanks!

[@sheilamayx]

Jean, stumbling upon your channel has been a truly enlightening experience for me. Your down to earth demeanor and insightful perspective on life have really resonated with me. Lately I've been contemplating the deeper meaning of existence and my place in this world, leading me to consider leaving behind the rat race of a 9-5 job for a slower, more fulfilling life abroad. Your words about the fleeting nature of material possessions in our consumer-driven society versus the richness found in authenticity and exploration have struck a chord with me. Despite feeling torn for the past couple of years, I've come to realise that conforming to societal expectations has left me feeling empty inside. It may sound melodramatic but it's a reality many of us face. Knowing that others, like yourself, are on a similar journey makes me feel less alone. Thank you for sharing your experiences and shedding light on this path. ❤

[@JeanVoronkova]

Hi Sheila, thanks for this kind and heartfelt note. I guess actually the videos are quite a bit of work, but being able to reach out and affect the feelings and thoughts of people like you make it meaningful for me because I remember being in that position once upon a time, feeling empty inside, like things are wrong, wanting to try something "radically different" (its not really, but it always seems that way from the other side of the fence!), and being lost and alone in those feelings. I didn't have a guide back then, over 12 years ago, n I wasn't watching YT. It was tough figuring out everything by myself and i feel very fortunate that it all worked out for me in the end. There's no guarantee everyone who starts down the path will get there - but if you don't start, you never will for sure. And even if the destination wasn't what you envisioned at first, every single one of these journeys is a massive growth experience in life and we are always the better for it. That's what I think. All the best to getting to a happier place Sheila.

[@edfast5893]

Wonderful Jean. Your videos are like listening to a friend. If you think about it, your regular subscribers who tune in each week are like friends you haven’t met yet. 😊. In life friends come and go. Always keep the door open for friends. I guess friendship means different things to different people. New friends, old friends and good friends the best are good old friends.

[@blueyomogi]

You communicate so beautifully. After making dear friends in different parts of the world, I agree that there are seasons for some relationships.

[@JeanVoronkova]

thats a nice way of putting it.... seasons.... its a very nice image to carry in the mind. Thanks!

[@TheWanderingPensioner]

Interesting thoughts. Thank you. I've spent 2 of my last 3 years away from "home" (Australia), since retiring at the end of 2019, aged 64. I think the most important advice for anyone is rather old advice: know thyself. I know many people think I must be bored or lonely much of the time, because I'm not racing around doing lots of activities ... but that's fine for me. I enjoy being able to listen to 3 hour long podcasts where one or two intelligent and respectful people deeply explore some interesting issues. I enjoy watching any and every movie or documentary that I've ever been interested in. I enjoy the new relationships that I've formed, and yes, it's fascinating to grapple with the cultural and linguistic hurdles in that space. I enjoy dissolving into a puddle of sweat when I play tennis in the tropical heat. There are financial challenges too, and I may embark on some online venture to mitigate those challenges, which will require a lot of new learning. And finally the challenges of being away from family, and the tensions that can create, is a whole other area, and not an easy one. So you're right to encourage folks to think long and deep about these things. I thank my lucky stars that I revisited the meditation practice of my youth, and have revised and deepened it, to my great benefit. Having a handle on how you should view and manage (or ignore) the endless internal babble that we all subject ourselves to, is just about the greatest investment anyone can make. And having clarity on the personal importance to oneself of stuff like relationships (family and other), sex, health, death, money, busyness ... and how prepared you are to deal with these things ... is invaluable. Again, thanks for your thoughts 🙂

[@lorenehogan7139]

I really identify with what you said. Where have you retired to?

[@livelife1899]

I love your very candor reflection on these four uncomfortable truths. Thanks for the thoughtful takeaways

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you - glad the vid resonated :)

[@rickrulloda2023]

the relentless march of time...indeed it is that...and you (both) are living your dream. I myself along with my wife are of different cultures and languages but English is our common denominator. Relationships come and go no matter where we are in life as I'm already finishing up my 5th decade here. Being introverted supports my internal and external life dynamics. appreciation for what you share as you impart the hero's journey for the most of us, including moi.

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you Rick, didn't know you & your wife also share an international relationship :) actually V hardly spoke any English when we first started dating properly (knew each other for 2 years before) but the character commonalities help a lot. and yes, i also love being an introvert! i think its great!

[@reginapolo3357]

Hi Jean. I was the only one in my family (including extended) that emigrated and always sought after other cultures. I am from Panama, a country that is very familiar with foreigners yet Panamenians (now all 4 mil of us) are not kin to exploration. Perhaps because we already have the whole world going right thru it. Your observations are so acurate. I have experienced it twice. I became an "immigrant/immigrant" best way I can explain. Lived in the US 40 years, serve in the military etc. Then went back to Panama only to exit and gone to live in Italy where I am currently at. Talking about head spinnin but you are right about being a fish out of water back home. In my case Panama and the US. Thanks for the video the clarity and the positive spin.

[@aysanay]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I can really related to it. It has been 5 years and I still try my best to keep friendship back home. As you said we will grow apart, accepted that true with a smile.

[@davidchan9187]

If your friends are still pursuing their careers while you have retired somewhat there is no more commonality, you would have to find your own new tribe while treasuring the good memories of the time you had with old friends who are on different paths and goals from you now, and no there is no such thing as friends forever more like memories forever

[@JeanVoronkova]

very wise indeed. So true.

[@cdbaz]

Spot on i been away for 13 years and everything you said resonates! Subscribed to your channel and watching all the other videos also help a lot and resonate. Thanks for sharing

[@leeeric3838]

Jean, when you speak, your tonality is really pleasant…calm and reassuring

[@dustnspace]

This was so sweet and sincere. Well done. It can make you up as an outsider on all sides no matter where you go and leave you searching a lot for connection. New good solid connections can also be hard to develop and find. I also am having trouble with the lack of advanced arts/music culture in places. Only the most major cities will have much in that way in Asia or Latin America. Like every band there ever was is on tour right now after the pandemie in the USA, and as a musician I wish so bad I could see and enjoy such things. Lots of trade offs to embrace where you are and the life you've chosen. :)

[@JeanVoronkova]

i think it may come down to personality but I actually miss more developed culture aspects less than I thought i would - like art museum exhibitions and etc. I think maybe cos I'm v caught up with the surf aspect of life here in Bali and am too preoccupied. But i always find visits to Europe & major cities & the art scene there refreshing.

[@etienne8382]

I think the major one, if your not single is having someone worth shared values. If not you will unfortunately tear your relationship apart either trying to pursue different paths in life or trying to accommodate each other.

[@dpledoone]

Very enlightening insight Jean. You should do more of these. Hearing the downside from such a positive person is quite jarring, but an important reality check. Thank you for sharing

[@JeanVoronkova]

thanks, thinking and grieving my faded friendships last 2 years has been heavy on the heart. But then i realised its just part of life and time passing. There's nothing i wd hv changed if i cd go back i guess. And it made sense things turned out this way. It was unrealistic to expect otherwise. So just putting it out there for others hoping it helps.

[@dpledoone]

@@JeanVoronkova It certainly does. We moved back to our previous city only to find that people had not grown and friendships were not the same. Keep staying positive

[@annaaboltina7335]

So true. Have lived abroad for 16 years and can confirm all of these.

[@johnnelson5675]

Great video! I can totally relate to these "problems" especially problems 3 and 4. As you were describing problem 3 i was thinking to myself "this is one of the things i like about being in a very foreign place, the bubble". Thx for making this vdo!

[@JeanVoronkova]

me too! Blissful Ignorance Zones can be quite comforting. When I go home to SG the first few days is always a headache w too much stimuli ....

[@beaunito]

Nice points Jean.. I agree to all 4 bullet points you laid out. I already felt those since I started to embrace a nomadic lifestyle since Aug 2022. Thank you

[@SagaJohanna]

I loved this video! Thank you so much. Going on 11 years abroad I'm being hit with all of these, especially the friends one lately. So this was very comforting to hear, especially since we're planning a trip to visit back home after 4 years :)

[@JeanVoronkova]

wow 4 years since you were back home? That's a long time away! Excited for you! I'm sure you'll be elated to return to the nest after this time and it'll be good to see everyone again :)

[@meldavies9909]

Yet another thought provoking update. Thanks. It's very helpful to hear these perspectives and insights.

[@JeanVoronkova]

🌻

[@martypoll]

I agree with all you said. I’ve always been a bit of a loner. I’m fine with being alone, exploring alone. I do have social skills but I think that it helps to navigate the expat experience if you can dip in and out of the environment around you and be content and comfortable during the quiet times. I have been living and married in Thailand fir six years.

[@JeanVoronkova]

Absolutely agree - the ability to be comfortable being alone with oneself is probably the strongest survival skill needed as a base to start with 🌻

[@roadwarriorreviews9136]

Great words of experience & wisdom. I plan to retire as an expat in Thailand and been watching a lot of vlogs from different KZbinrs who show the fun and say to take the plunge. It’s insightful videos like this I’m looking for to get a fuller perspective on life as an expat. Thanks!

[@JeanVoronkova]

i think people do mostly need encouragement to do the things they fear - that probably explains the imbalance. But I'm glad this vid resonated :)

[@FinancialFreedomLifestyle]

Thanks for sharing your perspective. Great insight.

[@suzh5789]

This is my second move abroad. This time I am in Portugal. This video explains the dynamic of integration (or not) really well.

[@Stacyalexa888]

Where was your first?

[@chris_atomy8]

Life is a journey, an adventure. Your life in Bali is amazing

[@christinegerard4974]

You impresse me so much ! You are so smart ,so harmonious,speak so well english ! For me ,I travel all the year around but …just in my country .(France )But I am a traveler and feel a huge difference with people when I return in one familiar place . What I do is to show them pictures of my trip on paper .It becomes a habit for them .They are used now to look at my pictures (of a different place in France where I stayed one month for exemple ).I think they have so the impression to travel too . Then I stay relatively well connected to them .

[@vinozarazzi5633]

❤About friends - we are all on each our own unique path tespectively- we can connect - we can walk together and share the journey for a while or even a lifetime and eventually we must follow our own calling - our own hearts still connected but on different journeys of learing❤

[@JeanVoronkova]

very true - it hurts though to remember once upon a time i thought those friends wd be until i get old. but im happy they are all well.

[@saja.]

Lovely chat 🍃♥ I've also lived abroad for 12 years! :) can so relate 🙏🏻

[@pakchiller23]

hi jean. after watching couple of your videos i finally gave u a sub. i was in bali january and may and will return october again (yes, my girlfriend lives there). i will make the final move next year and start a new life in bali. i am looking forward to this like i did never before, am also nervous about failing and stuff...i think u know what i mean when u did it first time as well :) this and other videos of you help me so much and i am planning to make youtube content of all the places i visit there and share it with the world. so basically thank you for sharing this, maybe we bump into each other one day in bali ;) terima kasih

Cultural compatibility, friend networks and first class health care. I believe that these are the three conditions when moving abroad. 1. Cultural compatibility. i.e People from any Spanish speaking country may move to other and feel at home. 2. Friend networks are much easier to create when number 1 is met. 3. Remember we all are going to age. Health issues may have better treatment in First World countries (except US).

[@dominichill1492]

Jean I'm happy for you that you was able to retire in a country that best fits you're life style and cost of living. Most importantly in the future you will be able to save more money as well Jean. I'm so happy that you uploaded a new video to see your beautiful face and knowledge Jean sweetheart.

[@FlaschDJ]

This is the 3rd video of yours that I’ve watched. It is less-slick than the others - background music, photo-library snippets- thank you. I’m still on the fence about whether to subscribe. I’d like to see an “unslick” video with no fetching music and no photo-library videos. In this video you discuss some “hard” stuff - I respect that. Thank you 🙏

[@jonallan392]

Very thoughtful and honest. Thank ypu.

[@edburrage6596]

Thank you Jean. I am a new subscriber. I enjoyed hearing about language loneliness. My LDR is in the Philippines. Her English is excellent and we have a few years together. I am now going to visit her. We are both more mature. I have been thinking if I will be lonely not speaking her language. I know phrases. And I need to prepare for being with family and not keeping up with conversation. I am from the U.S. and yes I speak Spanish fluently. I am willing to work on my language skills socially. You have made me feel so much better. Thank you so much.

[@JeanVoronkova]

thanks Ed I'm glad the video was helpful. With time you'll surely meld in to a certain extent.... and Fillipinas speak great english generally so i'm sure you won't find it so challenging and isolating - they are also wonderful people who make you feel warm at heart. Good luck!

[@alldecadesplaylists1017]

I enjoy your presentation style. Your calm manner is soothing to listen to. I wish you continued success.

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you that's very kind

[@jennyconnolly172]

Such good insights. I have experienced many of the things Jean talks about. You discover a lot about yourself when you choose to live abroad. Some of it is difficult. Ultimately I have concluded it was worthwhile, but not always easy or comfortable. 13:11

[@JeanVoronkova]

absolutely echo the sentiment - its not a trip to baskin robbins for sure, but very worth it for the personal growth and how it shapes your character 🌻😊

[@art0507]

another great video with insights not found in other similar video contents. that is, when we don't speak their languages and they accommodate by trying to speak ours. really strike a chord with me, as I travels for work.

[@daisyroman_xo]

I agree with you regarding friendships. Moving in the US and although w/ social Media and internet, friendships that I have known still changed because the physical and real actual interaction is not there anymore. Moving on and building new friendships in my age, imo, is difficult especially with culture differences. Which is why I wanted to retire in thailand eventually because cultures, values and ways is not different from mine.

[@JeanVoronkova]

i agree. Its hard for me too I feel culturally alone in most places - Singaporeans dont number much anywhere outside of Singapore haha and even if they're around it doesn't necessarily mean you find kindred spirits to connect with! We'll all evolve and find ways to cope tho I'm sure :) Thailand sounds like a good plan

[@hummit]

Good pointers! Thanks for this video!

[@shirleytan5162]

I spent most of my early life in Malaysia , then moved and became a citizen of australia . With my humble amount passive income I am now planning to geoarbititrage back to Malaysia , where most of my friends and relatives are 😍 cant wait

[@JeanVoronkova]

haha nice! sounds like a lovely plan and you sound so excited about it alr!

[@lindaw.fossum3285]

Interesting, thoughtful! ❤

[@mayolasbones6831]

Hi Jean, thank you for your wonderful show. I look at my old friendships like we will spend allot of great time in Heaven. The Near Death Stories on You Tube tell us this also. As the body dies the Soul lives on. Old Friendships are reunited and time together is there again. We are separated with living our life . But we are reunited with the Lord in Heaven. Everything is recorded the good and bad but we move on in Heaven. Best to you, Dave

[@koufax174]

Great topics. First of all, I am leaving the US because friendships are so emotionally unavailable. My spouse passed away and during the year I took care of her NO, yes No friends or family called or visited me. When I visited South America and SE Asia people in general are 100% more open and LESS mindlessly busy and stressed out and very available to talk for hours, and not penciled in like in the US. I think it’s not reality to think US friends are worth hanging on to because they are the best. To not be around people in the hamster wheel stressed out chasing material things where they will never have enough is not only healing but also life giving. To be to not know what’s going on in conversations or with cultural differences is an opportunity to grow, to open myself up, to understand what is going on inside me and to be more AWAKE! Americans have so many unrealistic expectations of other people. Let go of that. Let people be who they are. I have only been in relationship in the US with foreign women because they are far more interesting and I have an intimate opportunity to be open minded and grow as a person. I welcome, as I always have in my relationships the opportunity to see things differently. If I go abroad thinking I want to bring my US values and personal identity with me I’m missing out big time. I want to grow and be more open minded, NOT hang on to the old ways and the past. This is a far more interesting, exciting and AWAKE way to live rather than bringing old values based on consumerism, materialism, intensity, stress, high expectations and closed mindedness.

[@dennisolive4741]

Very good video about living a life abroad. I have been coming to Bali for over thirty years and now have been living here for almost four years straight. I don't mind leaving the life I had in America. Especially since the virus and lockdown and the price of goods sky rocketing. With technology I can stay in touch with the few I want too. I remember when I first started coming here and seeing the way life was here and all the ceremonies and temples and I thought how wonderful these people are, but after many years living with the Balinese I saw a different side that a new comer doesn't see. I don't mind a lack of understanding the language because much of what is said is just boring everyday things like everywhere else in the world. I like the Blissful ignorant zone? I see a side of greed, constant lying, being a slave to their religion. Corruption and I realize if I didn't have any money my welcome would be over super fast. It get's tiring always having to negotiate prices and wondering if I'm getting screwed. It seems every year now the prices go higher and higher. All it takes is one ignorant tourist to pay too much for something such as transport, handicrafts or basically anything and then we are all screwed. I think I have friends here but is that really true? Would they be my friend if I ran out of money? I doubt it. We are basically walking ATM's and that what we will ever be. Yes we can rent a place for twenty or thirty years, but it's always rent. Foreigners cannot buy land in Indonesia! That's an illusion many think. Anyway, I do Like living here creating my own way of doing things.The weather and the cost of living here suits my clothes. I hope I didn't sound too negative it's just what I have felt and observed. Thanks

[@TakenPilot]

Mindlessly busy is the key phrase I’m borrowing from you. 😀

[@christinegerard4974]

@@dennisolive4741thank you .What you said here is extremely interesting. Good luck from France .

[@believe-in-righteousness]

You are so positive calmness

[@JeanVoronkova]

thanks 🌻

[@VibeHighTraining]

Glad you have reached self actualization and are living your BEST LIFE 🎉I ASPIRE THE SAME❤

[@Uiscebeatha565]

This was very informative and I related to it all, especially point 4 about being an imposter. I'm Irish and lived in China , I feel so bored when my local friends spend most of the time together talking about the premiership.

[@JeanVoronkova]

lol I get what you mean! wow living in China is brave man. I find it a very pressurizing place, more so i guess cos i can understand everything that's being said around me. They're always chasing after smtg!

[@tonyryan43]

As a person, you yourself are an inspiration, recognising the sharp edge of trans-culturalism and, I suspect, the imperative of learning the local language (or in Bali, both, Balinese AND Bahasa Indonesia. Having lived most of my life in bi-cultural environments, I view sadly the endemic western disrespect of not learning local languages. One cannot form meaningful relationships when communication is fractionalised and cultures misunderstood. That is a formula for dying alone and unwanted. But your spouse most certainly made a wise choice in you, with intelligence, beauty, and sensitivity combined. You deserve your happiness.

[@Summerday00]

Yes Unattached, thanks for reminding us!❤

[@JeanVoronkova]

:) we all need that step back mentally from time to time :)

[@snc4278]

I lived in Yerevan Armenia for 2 years before coming home due to a family member illness, You are so right, the first few months were very lonely. I opened a business there even though I didn't speak Russian or Armenian. I'm interested in moving to Bali and opening up a scooter rental place. If you have some advice, I would love to hear it.

[@philipnguyen3107]

excellent video!❤

[@donroy7825]

Hello dear Jean 🙋‍♂️ !! Thanks for this excellent video, so insightful 👍 ! I recognise all of these aspects from my own family members and friends. As you may remember, I have stayed put 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿; but my relations both older and younger all spread out on different continents, they have noticed and struggled to a greater or lesser extent with all of the point you raise 🚶🏽‍♂️ ⛰️🌊🌊. They become so aware of being, and staying as immigrants in a new land 😊. (Still enjoying my travels, just back from stays in Spain and Italy 🇪🇸 🇮🇹 👩🏼‍🤝‍👨🏻👋!). Best wishes, cheers, Don

[@BuzzSargent]

I am probably starting my retirement journey in the Philippines since I am comfortable there. Also, most things are in English or they speak English. I have friends in Indonesia and would like to explore there also. Thanks for making calm thoughtful videos. You are so good at this. Have a Magical Day.

[@JeanVoronkova]

lovely - all the best for the beginning of your next stage in life 🌻

[@jeffreyrafferty4888]

Absolutely outstanding content!

[@jayaramanramakrishnan3251]

Very well chosen words, expressed soulfully, Jean! Enjoy the present moment!!

[@JeanVoronkova]

thanks 🌻

[@baidya12345]

As always another beautiful video!❤

[@JeanVoronkova]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@unsaltedbeurre3411]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. For me, language and political system are very important to me. I personally wouldn't move to a country where I couldn't understand the language or disagreed with its political system. For example, I wouldn't move to a country run under dictatorship. That's why I left Thailand and I would never move back there unless things changed dramatically 😂 Anyway, I think at the end of the day, if we live an 'intuitive' life and in touch and honest with ourselves, most of the time I think we will know when we've found the 'right' place. The initial 'Yes, this is it' vibe has to be there first, then we'll make the effort to make it work, whether it's learning a new language, seeking new friendships, participating in the local community, navigating the bureaucracy, etc. At the end of the day, like you have said in some of your videos, as long as we live simply, lightly, and understand that things do change including us as an individual, we can always pack up and find another place to retire in if one country doesn't work out the way we hope.

[@JeanVoronkova]

that's a wonderful perspective to look at life from - love that you carry this attitude throughtout life. And thanks for making the point about political systems. I didn't use to pay so much attention - but after years in Vietnam and now seeing whats happening in Russia and China I also tend to be more careful about ending up in a place where the government has the absolute discretion with everything.

[@unsaltedbeurre3411]

Absolutely! Look forward to your next video. I like your thoughtful content:) @@JeanVoronkova

[@Reubenn1]

NEW TO THE CHANNEL, GREAT VIDEO!!

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you!

[@dmang0]

You're so brave to retire 12 years ago! I was wondering if you missed having meaningful conversation when you're in a country where language was a challenge. Obviously, you've built an incredible community now.

[@thomasrudy6132]

geoarbitrage, i learned a new word, thank you Jean. now when i use that word in conversation i will appear to be smart like you.

[@kevinho4504]

I want to spend 1 month every year to surf in Bali and just chill there. Counting down…..5.5 years away

[@LeiVillania]

Very relatable. ❤

[@bryanvu1712]

Love your videos as always Jean

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you Bryan :)

[@MarkinChina]

Great video, alot of good pionts, i am hopping to retire to China next year from the UK.....Peace and JaYoe

[@amazing-mom2286]

❤ Just Love this!!

[@JeanVoronkova]

🌻

[@kwokweng76]

i like this video, well said

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you 🌻🤓

[@rebeccal.672]

I run into the same thing just going back to visit a friend who lives in my home state in the US. I moved a while ago to a different state so feeling that disconnect is real even when you dont live in a different country. I have lost touch with a lot of friends since I moved as well. They were either too busy or distance and lack of seeing one another so just lost touch.

[@JeanVoronkova]

its harder and harder in today's world to find connection and then make it last... sad truth 🌻

[@rayjarquejr.4362]

Will definitely secure Bali's 5-year retirement visa when I retire.

[@JeanVoronkova]

There’s talk of the new second home visa replacing the retirement visa scheme but let’s hope not 😅

[@grandmauti]

Thanks for sharing 4 reasons uncomfortable truths for retiring overseas, and your narration are details and clear and i fully considered about that. 13:11

[@rob2530]

Hi Jean. Thank you for another great video. Yes, makes lot of sense but as you say, the cultivation of non-attachment can be helpful in many cases. I have had a look through your video list to try and find a recent ‘cost of living in Bali’ clip but couldn’t seem to find it. Perhaps it’s there but I have missed it. I’m wondering if you could direct me to it or if you might have time, be able to do a current cost of living in Bali clip if possible. Thank you. I am wondering what monthly costs might be of late. I understand that this is subjective, depending on each individuals’ own spending habits but an approximate idea would be very helpful if you do have time. Thank you Jean. All the best 😊

[@coopermill1005]

Will be moving to Bali full time by May 2024!

[@JeanVoronkova]

congrats! im sure you'll love it :)

[@thecowegg]

I left my home country/town 32 yrs ago. Left when I was single, build my family abroad. Kids are now grown up, i feel like going back to my home country/town due to the phrase nothing like home. Just my 2 cents tho. 🙌

[@JeanVoronkova]

why not? life is short, do what makes yourself happy 😊

[@Misyurov]

Great video! Tell me, which lavalier microphone do you use?

[@VibeHighTraining]

YOU LOOK INCREDIBLE ❤😊

[@jonb3189]

Left the US back 1996, and zero desire to return. IMO, the lives so many people there lead are near pathetic. Visited friend of mine, engineer, and I was speaking of my travels and experiences living abroad. And meanwhile, he was bragging about (and I am not joking) the fuel injection of his new car ... "and the old fuel injection had ____ but this car so superior having ___." I was stunned, listing to his talk of his superior fuel injection for nearly two hours. Another friend I visited was talking about a PC game that he and we used to play twenty years ago. He was literally reading the WHATS NEW file and all the minute changes and improvements to the game. Having them appreciate life abroad, like training a monkey to play Beethoven.

[@johnrainsman6650]

Hey, remember me? I told you how I wanted to quit my toxic job and get a new one, but I was worried about what my boss (as my previous employer reference) would say. Well, I have a new question now. I need her to write well of me so I can get the job, of course. But after I get the job and quit my current one, I want to write my boss a letter, _finally_ standing up to her for her toxic behavior. Is it risky? Can she just contact the coffee shop and tell them what I wrote to her? She needs to hear how she made me feel weak and stupid and undermined.

[@nala3038]

Over the last 20 years, I have spent most of that time living abroad. Americans who have NEVER left the United States have no idea what the rest of the world is like. The USA doesn't even rank in the top 10 places to live, The USA doesn't rank in the top 10 safest countries. The USA doesn't rank in the top 10 healthiest countries. MOST citizens around the globe would choose to live anywhere BUT the USA. This world has a lot of nice places to live in. Life goes quickly. Enjoy while you can.

[@chrismurray7532]

As always, A very deep and profound synopsis on the subject matter you choose to address in a video. I am able to work remotely now, and I’m considering spending my winters somewhere in Southeast Asia. Bali is one of the considerations. Thank you for all the insightful information on Bali itself and overall general information like in this video. Your videos always have a holistic, and I would say an even spiritual aspect to them. Thank you Jean.

[@m3tr0id86]

Honestly Jean what is so much worse is like myself in Texas for example. So much people, but being advanced at a young age, like self awareness, knowledgeable about history, sciences of many kinds, theoretical possibilities like multiverse theory (mostly what ifs and how it could change things in history as we know it), the arts and more, it is extremely difficult to speak to people that have allowed themselves to be stupid such as college students saying we have 4 moons and no I am not joking about that. I would rather be lonely and be aware there is hardly a soul around, than having a ton of people around me, but their collective intelligence is no stronger than a potato battery. Since I was 18 and to this day 18 years later (funny enough) I still feel like I don't belong anywhere and even then I ask myself occasionally, have I out stayed my welcome? At least as far as uncomfortable truth number 2 goes. For number 4, most and even my own family would never notice. Not because I have no ability to change, but mostly because I have an ability to adapt very quickly to my environment. Both physical and social. Sorry if this was lengthy. I usually have so much on my mind at any time, it's very hard to condense my thoughts in a few sentences most of the time.

[@edfast5893]

You are who you are. And other people are who they are. We all awaken and become aware at our own pace. Enjoy life everyday and listen to your inner voice . Remember you gain more joy from helping others.

[@m3tr0id86]

@@edfast5893 Thanks Jean.

[@Driver2724]

Is combodia great to retire old single man just simple life??

[@TheFurlock]

The moment you see, is the moment you suffer, to grow is to believe and to understand is to take part in heaven.

[@durianwalker]

O. Welles

[@Youdude2]

How do you stay in Bali long term if visa is limited?

[@winnievinis]

yes moving to bali for about 3weeks soon. im started to feel the loneliness and missing fish soupppppp T.T

[@winnievinis]

@jeanvoronkova can i check when u move in to your new house did u do the Balinese tradition house blessing? melukat?

[@phmiii]

I failed Uncomfortable Truth No. 2 completely!

[@tunariencompriscarorosuard6443]

What an intilligent contents from , i think from an intelligent woman thanks ..

[@JeanVoronkova]

thank you!