Why most people do not retire cheap overseas

[@VagabondAwake]

☆★☆ Our webpage with 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗘𝗗 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗔𝗕𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗩𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗢☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/why-most-people-do-not-retire-cheap-overseas/ ☆★☆ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/ ☆★☆ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗘-𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞→ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 ☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/ ☆★☆ 𝗗𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 $$$ 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲☆★☆ vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/

[@cathymarsollier9417]

Thank you Dan. I was a slow traveller when I was in my 20's. Now that I'm comfortably retired $$, I still enjoy slow travelling. It seems that my preferences were instilled when I was young, so I love to live close to a local lifestyle in whatever country I find myself. It seems that the more upscale I go, the more sterile life seems.

[@bikebasket9594]

Totally, you feel like you’re living in a hospital in a five star hotel.

[@tman5634]

Same here Cathy, well said.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for the wise thought Cathy Marsollier. This channel is all about new ways of looking at things. Plus, comments, subscriptions, and likes, cause KZbin to grow our channel which also grows our income. So, thank you, :-) Dan

[@cathymarsollier9417]

It's a personal feel isn't it. I don't mean to dismiss a way of travel that others need/enjoy for their own reasons whatever that may be: security, aesthetics, food safety, like minded socialization, economic contribution . . . but it does annoy me that some think I'm 'cheaping out'. Not my purpose at all.

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

@@cathymarsollier9417 I can't imagine why someone would accuse you of cheaping out. If you want to live in a simple room and a part of town that's away from tourism and that makes you happy go for it! What others think of you should be of no concern to you. And if others are happy living in a gated community that should be no skin off your nose as well period as you said it's personal .for me I like to mix both

[@grahamtanker8135]

Spot on!.. I have friends who moved to a Spanish gated community to have British neighbours, as they felt it was more secure. Both have been held up and robbed, the complex is now like a ghost town, and they are selling at a great loss.. one said they should of bought in the local community as it’s safer…I think people can’t see outside their own box at times and try to make their life the same as if they were living back in their old country instead of relaxing into the new environment.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Graham Tanker! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@ph5915]

Great video, Dan! You have mentioned this several times in your videos. If one chooses to live among, and like, the locals, it can be very inexpensive. But if one chooses a gated community of expats, shops at stores, groceries, restaurants, etc., that cater to foreigners, it will always be more costly. I have seen several videos - from other channels as well - where an American (for example), only had their Social Security check to live off of, and so moved. And in their new country, they live quite nicely on that, and even save $ every month.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks Peter. Yes, many people are able to do it. Live a great life on social security alone.

[@chrisjuricichxl5]

@@VagabondAwake we retired on social security and our home sale in the states netted us enough to build our retirement home here in the Philippines-in a gated community. No mortgage. Our investments are rarely touched but will be saved for possible medical issues, a new car, or emergency expenses. I need cataract surgery and here, its about $1000 as opposed to US $ of $3500-6000. We could never have afforded to stop working if we had stayed in the States. Screw THAT noise.

[@Cashflowsavage]

I’m about to embark on my new lifestyle from USA to Costa Rica I’m a single man and can live on the cheap I completely agree with everything you said thanks !

[@tman5634]

All the very best Andy, enjoy every day.

[@gmeyer6657]

You the man, Andy!! Safe travels & props!!

[@chuck5553]

Congrats Mr Andy

[@VagabondAwake]

Great story Andy M. Thank you for sharing it with us. Let us know how things go. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan

[@williamtell5365]

My wife is Vietnamese-- born and raised in Hanoi. I have lived there for a good part of my adult life. So Vietnam is a good option for me, in retirement. It's not decided yet, but I think it's likely we will end up in Da Nang, which is the nicest big city in Vietnam. It's an inexpensive and easy life in Vietnam, but it would not be easy without being married to a local.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you tom affolter! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@patriciavandevelde5469]

I m a woman! I m absolutely not interested in marrying a Vietnam or Thai guy!!!!

[@expatjourneys8962]

Well done Expat watching from the Province of Batangas Philippines. Been here since 2016. And loving our easy life. We are now ready to sell our house in San Francisco.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching!

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

Dan this is an excellent video that does a realistic job of painting what it cost to live outside of the US more cheaply. Your description of the three basic Lifestyles is a perfect dramatization of why 50% of Americans have no money in their pocket 50% have varying degrees of cash from a few thousand dollars to over $1000000 in their account. I see Americans complaining that the system no longer works but the fact is that most people have no idea the difference between a need and a want. When you go to a foreign country those desires are magnified because most foreign countries put between 100% And 300% tariffs on foreign Goods so if you stray off your budget into something that you want your mistake is magnified several hundred times. I know I'm preaching to the choir when I say this. Hello from Chiang Mai Thailand

[@VagabondAwake]

Great point David!

[@gpgross]

Your analysis is spot on, Dan. I have been a professional (working) expat for more than thirty years, and I have been able to observe the three categories of retired expats in 5 countries. Your description is accurate. Thank you for sharing your insights.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said!

[@YouGotOptions2]

Your channel is one of the reasons why I am walking gulf of Mexico in Campeche Mexico as I type this. We are currently looking for where we want to settle down in the country. Thanks for all you do.

[@tman5634]

Fantastic Todd, love it.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello Todd Maek, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause KZbin to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan

[@onkelreisendemac4864]

Soundfile is low, so on maximum settings it is a problem, so you need speakers on this file. I recommend that you check that because the other files give much more decibel if you want in the settings.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your constructive criticism Onkel Reisende Mac. That is how we get better. And thanks for commenting, Best, Dan

[@davidjohnston1374]

@@VagabondAwake Yes I agree with Onkel, I watch your channel through my lap top and with the volume up as high as it will go, your voice & narration is quite low in volume. I often have to use headphones to hear the video clearly. Cheers!!

[@johngalt6708]

From my own experience of living in Cebu, your analysis is 100% accurate. If you live like a local you'll spend like a local. If you live like an "expat" (replicating your western lifestyle) you'll spend like an expat. There's a happy balance that most people will end up finding.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said!

[@Larry-vc5qv]

Have condo prices in Cebu come down John?

[@johngalt6708]

@@Larry-vc5qv not really, there’s a thriving BPO community here so well healed locals are keeping prices buoyant

[@Larry-vc5qv]

@@johngalt6708 thanks John....

[@erniemccracken5509]

I live in the US and have asked dozens of people why they don't retire overseas. Every single one said the same thing. They either have kids or elderly parents and didn't want to move further away from those loved ones.

[@VagabondAwake]

It is definitely not for everyone. Sounds like you may fit into the larger slice of the pie that will retire in their home country?

[@thecosmicsnail]

Very informative as always...just subscribed. You won me over with your no-nonsense approach.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for subscribing thecosmicsnail. And thanks for taking the time to comment. Both actions cause KZbin to grow our income faster. We really appreciate it! Dan

[@jillridling2431]

Thank you, Dan, for always providing enjoyable and educational info. I really appreciate how you broke down the different types of Western immigrants overseas. You're 100% correct about the neo-colonial types, ex-pats, and more localized immigrants. I lived and worked in Cairo for three years after the revolution and I met an amazing variety of ex-pats and many localized immigrants married to Egyptians who had made their lives in Cairo for 15 years+. I lived in a non-expat inner suburb of Cairo with middle-class Egyptians and cobbled together enough Arabic to get around and have my daily needs met. Most of my friends were Egyptian with a sprinkling of some Ex-pat friends. I really didn't meet up with too many neo-colonials who lived out in compounds as they were too remote from the city and stayed isolated and a bit timid of experiencing Egypt in all of its gritty glory. I now have more confidence in living locally no matter where I decide to immigrate next from the U.S. as my experiences among Egyptians, on the whole, were more rewarding and gratifying than if I had been locked behind walls out in the desert.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great story Jill Ridling. Thank you for sharing it with us. When I was in Cairo, it reminded me of New Delhi India in some ways. The lifestyle there is very different and thus more challenging than some other parts of the world. But it comes with a great sense of accomplishment because you learn as much about yourself when you are in such an environment. You learn to question all the assumptions you make about life when you see it being lived so differently from 'home.' You no longer get so stuck in your head about the right way to do every process. You learn how to solve problems and you become stronger and more resilient. You learn that the limitations that you assume are real in life are often only in your own mind. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan

[@jillridling2431]

@@VagabondAwake Thanks Dan, keep up the great work as I love to learn about new destinations that possibly I hadn't considered! Be well!

[@yanostropicalparadise755]

great video! in america i could have bought a home in a wealthy area, i worked in those areas and hated the sterile look and feel, the lack of friendly and welcoming neighbors. so, i bought a cheap little house in a low-income Latin neighborhood, life here is awesome, i party regularly with neighbors, we help each other out, send food to each other's houses from time to time. i have money to spare, i live far beneath means. if and when i move to another country, i will live with and party with the locals. relationships are what life is about, possessions hold little value for me. comfort is nice, but i don't need it.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are a f-ing genius. I am not kidding. Not even a little.

[@yanostropicalparadise755]

@@VagabondAwake it gets even better, i bought the house 22 years ago for 35 grand remolded it before moving in, built a 10x16 building lot a year later, built another 16x20 building a few years later, added 600 square feet to the main house. today it could sell for 375 grand in this low rent area. now im renting two areas for $2,400.00 a month. so instead of dept its profit.

[@aniwee17]

I am always impressed by your ability to pack up and go. I find it too stressful living in a foreign country so far away from everything that I am familiar. I especially could not get used to not driving myself when I visited Bangkok 25 years ago. When I returned home from Thailand, I was so grateful to be back home in the USA, escaping the heat, traffic, noise and social economic injustice that I witnessed over there.

[@VagabondAwake]

Mark Eggener, thank you for being part of our community. :-) Dan

[@wingnut4217]

Again your perspectives and categorizations were on point.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you WingNut! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@lizsavage1178]

Dan, thanks for another interesting and insightful video. As I’ve said before I’ve used your insights to help me with my retirement abroad for cheap from the start over a year ago. I think I would fall into that group you describe as full or partial localization, I think that’s the word you used, pardon me if I got it wrong, but you know what I mean and consequently I’ve been able to live in one of the more expensive cities in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta, for more than a year for well under a thousand dollars US each month. I have a strict budget that suits my needs and it even covers all of the medicine I buy each month and I’m still able to save. I don’t want for anything and I’m quite comfortable, so I’m proof that it can be done if that’s what you want. I realize though that most people don’t want to live my minimalist lifestyle, like my upstairs neighbor who eats out every day, whereas I cook every day. So it just depends on the individual and how they wish to live. Keep up the good work!

[@grahamtanker8135]

I find it interesting that many Americans include medicine into their needs ( as a pre requisite ) whilst Brits include alcohol as a necessity.. I see that as being a harmful “ norm” accepted by both societies.

[@lizsavage1178]

@@grahamtanker8135 I agree! They both should be covered under a universal benefits plan wherever in the world you go! I think the worlds economic system needs to be reworked eliminating money or it’s equivalent and substituting a system where everyone’s needs are taken care of and everyone contributes based on their skills and abilities.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Liz Savage, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@formica.]

@@lizsavage1178 "From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs" Karl Marx, 1875. The principle refers to free access to and distribution of goods, capital and services, provided by a paternalistic government that you give power to take care of you, regulated individual freedoms, collective living. Yes some people see that as a utopia.

[@orangeguy3314]

I got a condo in Las Vegas for $82,000US. It's a 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom and one car garage. The mortgage is $385.00 per month and that includes property taxes and home owners insurance. You will never be able to buy a place in a city like Las Vegas in thailand or anywhere else in southeast asia. Getting a health care policy in southeast asia is a joke for someone over 62 years of age. The policies they sell are outlawed in most of the advance countries of the world, because they have limits on payouts and have pre-existing conditions in their policies.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your cost of living numbers Orangeguy! Have a great day! Dan

[@formica.]

And yet here you are watching Dan's videos! The accommodation is part of the cost. In Saigon and Bangkok, condos that size cost 2-3x as much. But we can rent in an expat building for $500-$700. Electric for aircon is $60. Phone and internet $15. No car. Motorbike costs $1200-$1800 new. It sips gas, $20/month max. No insurance for auto, home, life, liability, homeowners. Local food is $3 a day, groceries from cheap markets, supermarkets cheaper than the states for other things, there are imported foods. I would say food is 1/2 cost of US. Medical and dental is cheap, just pay out of pocket. Prescription drugs all generic world prices, cheap cheap. Vacations are $15-$25 for hotel rooms, internal flights like $50.

[@somotest]

Very accurate. I am currently visiting Hua Hin Thailand. I can live comfortably in a midrange condo walking distance to the beach on approximately 13 to 14 US hundred a month. Your analysis is very accurate and realistic from my perspective. Your videos were very helpful in my decision making process for my first overseas travel experience. Than you, Rick.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome Rick Casada. Your comment grows our channel. :-) Dan Have you seen our KZbin playlist for each country? kzbin.infoplaylists

[@tman5634]

Great stuff Dan, yet again !

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for listening T Man!

[@BillGreenAZ]

Last year I was able to take advantage of the low interest rates so I refinanced my mortgage payment. It's so low now that in maybe ten years the places you report on will have rent the same that I have for a mortgage payment so it wouldn't do me well to move overseas to live. However, I do plan on staying a few months of the year in these places while I hold on to my home. In that regard I am able to have a more fulfilling lifestyle thanks to your reports on where I can live cheaply during those months. Thanks for your videos, Dan.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great points you both made. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. Dan

[@ramo2342]

Mortgages in itself aren't the problem. Its the future costs of property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees. These costs will be greatly affected by inflation.

[@BillGreenAZ]

@@MrWaterbugdesign Are you going to move to SE Asia year-round or only part time?

[@BillGreenAZ]

@@ramo2342 My HOA fees only go up 5% max each year or about $5 per month. I live in a city with several large tech companies that are taxes and it even has an airport for revenue so property taxes don't go up much. Insurance is reasonable as well. My property appreciation far outweighs any of the increases in these things you mention.

[@ariefraiser140]

@@BillGreenAZ From my calculations between the cost for HOA, property taxes, home insurance, and small and big home maintenance costs a paid off home in the US is still more expensive then renting in one of the lower cost countries. Right now I stay in a small townhouse just outside of DC. HOA, property taxes, home owners insurance alone runs me about $575 a month. And that's before accounting for a roof replacement or new HVAC unit etc.

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

You did well trying to condense all of your information. I loved the pics you put in to look at during your commenting. Good job.👍

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@jhonnyfromme2109]

Thanks for the video, your very good at explaining why some expats cant adjust to living overseas.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are very welcome

[@miaslifestartedat50]

Great video!😍

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you liked it!!

[@Jzarecta]

BTW gated communities are all over including the United States, and other First world countries. Gated communities is commonly known as suburbs whenever the 'gate' is just the distance, or some have actual gates to protect them from the regular street. So is also not everything rellated to colonialism and has more to do with wealth convenience. Is no secret rich people want to be around other rich people, so they will move to rich neighborhoods with enhanced security and send their kids to exclusive private schools so they grow with kids of higher income families as well.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you JZA! Nice recap. Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@jonathanjacques7250]

It's a nice alternative to be an expat. But I for one will stay in the US. Family, Friends and community I Love.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Jonathan Jacques! Thanks for watching and commenting. Knowing what you want in life is the most important step to getting what you want. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@elsienorback7689]

In Bali they charge differently between Bule and locals. Accommodations that are for locals, landlords cannot rent to Bull’s. It was published in 2019, and local renters know they can only rent to locals and not bule. I cannot recall what the places are called.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for sharing Elsie, Yes, but there are various price points for foreigners. It is not all expensive especially now during the down market.

[@sarasilver9280]

I love watching your channel! I would love for my husband and I to retire early overseas, but he wants to wait another 15 years to earn more money. He’s 5 years younger than me, so by then I’ll be 70. I feel I’ll be too old, or we could possibly have some health issues by then. I guess I’ll go back to playing the lottery!

[@VagabondAwake]

You could just go ahead and enjoy your life and send him postcards?

[@contributor2024]

Sir to me you are living the dream. Thank you for your analysis.

[@VagabondAwake]

You are so welcome.

[@eamonnmurphy5385]

I live in northeast Thailand. Many of the expats here get married to locals, build homes and assimilate into their communities! When you are rent free, it's quite cheap as water and electricity is inexpensive! I guess the average cost of living would be about 1200usd in this situation! The highest cost is medical insurance which ranges between 200- 500usd depending on age and the level of cover!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your cost of living numbers Eamonn Murphy! Have a great day! Dan Have you seen our KZbin country playlists yet? kzbin.infoplaylists

[@anjalyb]

I enjoyed the presentation. It would have been better if you could location name to the pictures in the report. Thx

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your constructive criticism Subodh Banerjee. That is how we get better. And thanks for commenting, Best, Dan

[@haldepet12]

Well, the question is not what you like to do, but what you can afford to do. Of course, if money doesn't matter you will retire expensive. But as you said, that are only 20%. For the others, it is all about efficiency. That includes staying in high-wages places in the savings phase and settle to low budget place at retirement. Then you try to live a local life and upgrade as much as your budget allows (Car, Golf club, travelling, private yard, private jet etc.). That is an easy task. The difficult task is to get the best moment for making the move and retire. When too early, your budget is smaller and so is the fun. When too late, you have more issues in adapting the new life and find balance and you might not be able to experience all your planned dreans.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question haldepet12, That is why I switched from a job to my own business so I could live anywhere and make high wages. I have a video explaining how I make money that pays for my travels and I have a course that is presently available as a bonus for all of my paid subscribers, whether they are on my $9 per month membership or my $99 Lifetime membership. Here are those two resources if you would like to learn more: How I make travel Money: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYmXgJSqlJl1fqM Course teaching how to do it: vagabondbuddha.com/courses/the-hobby-income-course/ Thanks, Dan

[@harrynutz4550]

I’m a new retiree and new to your channel

[@VagabondAwake]

Welcome to the party Harry Nutz. lol.

[@ralphgillies8614]

Often you are very realitic in your accounts of life wherever yuo are. Greatly appreciated. Like you Ihave traveled in números countries viajes and cites. I've been in central and So América for 16 years and need a cultural reset. So I'll start with Thailand. Raised i Hawaii, in asían culture. Looking forward to the change. Thank you for the words..R

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Ralph Gillies, Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@todd7756]

Dan, thanks for the info, I always enjoy your content and learn something new.

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad to hear it!

[@kevinreist7718]

The 4th type of person who can't retire cheap overseas is the guy who brought his wife with him. During the 80's I served in the Air Force at Hahn Air Force Base in Germany. At the time, the Deutsche Mark had a very favorable exchange rate and I could have saved a butt load of money if I hadn't brought my wife with me.

[@VagabondAwake]

Yes, picking a partner with similar goals is a great start to life.

[@raysfla]

I loved this video, thanks for spreading your wisdom gained from personal experience! you did not mention cost of a girlfriend, wife or life partner who lives & travels with you in retirement. Maybe you did in another video? cheers Dan. ! p.s. - you are a great photographer!!

[@VagabondAwake]

It costs about an extra 20-30% for each additional person depending on their habits and how much you cook at home.

[@donh5794]

You explained it realistically and organized.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello Don H, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause KZbin to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan

[@snowdough888]

Thanks for all your videos, very helpful. info for me. Bless you guys!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheSugmad]

Excellent Dan! Thanks

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Fred Smith! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@markledesma2396]

I have a maid in the Philippines who takes care of my laundry, dishes, etc. Life is good.

[@VagabondAwake]

Sweet!

[@brianwhite1189]

Excellent video, thanks!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome!

[@vgshwk]

Another thing is Dan know that most countries have a high season and low season that affects prices and exchange rates. If you are a nomadic traveler you can play this for your advantage. If you are a year round retiree in a foreign country you can use this by buying items and stocking up on nonperishable and frozen food items when the exchange rate is the best.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for the wise thought vgshwk. This channel is all about new ways of looking at things. Plus, comments, subscriptions, and likes, cause KZbin to grow our channel which also grows our income. So, thank you, :-) Dan

[@pokeaman1645]

Hi, Dan enjoyed your realistic video of what you need to retire. All I would say is if you intend to become an ex-pat then make sure you can afford it and that you have a prudent reserve in case something goes wrong or you need to return to your home country. Don't be broke living hand to mouth because you will be miserable. If you're waking up and feeling another shi**y day in paradise. Go home to your home country. Take care GOD Bless you and yours. M

[@VagabondAwake]

I have often wondered what I would do if that ever happens. But whenever I go to the USA and visit family, I am struck by how expensive and boring it is. So if I was broke somewhere else in the world, the USA might be the last place I would want to be. Unless I was destitute and someone had a place I could stay for free that included food. Then I might go back to the USA, but I would still be so bored.

[@frosty3693]

Good information, and very logical! While I am not planning to retire overseas, I am open to the idea. But it may depend on changing conditions at home. Maybe one of the things that puts people in the various expat groups, besides finances, is what lifestyle they want and how much change they can handle.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said! Resistance to change is important factor especially in the first few years overseas.

[@gmeyer6657]

Simple,way to outside of the box for most Americans.

[@VagabondAwake]

I couldn't agree more G Meyer. But there are a few on the road less traveled. :-) Thanks for commenting. KZbin grows our channel faster when people comment! So we really appreciate it! Best, Dan

[@vjn2390]

It’s understandable that we are uncomfortable with the unknown. Personally, I want to live in a fully paid condo on a mountain with ocean view. Slow travel during my 60’s while I have health and strength. If need be, I can always return home.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hello VJN 23, Sounds like a well-thought-out plan! Let us know how it goes. Thanks for commenting VJN 23, it helps grow our channel. Best, Dan

[@mentorinspired]

My goal for 2022 is to start my journey. Most likely first in Mexico > Guatemala > Peru > and at any point if I can go to Thailand or Malaysia I will.

[@VagabondAwake]

The best minds think alike!

[@alonzocecil8861]

Good definitions. Great video....

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you liked it!

[@deankoch7305]

Another great video with a 😋 thumbnail.

[@VagabondAwake]

Glad you like it

[@keithy507]

It’s my dream to retire to Thailand. I wish I could retire now at the age of 45 but I’ll have to wait until 10 years. I’ll be mortgage free in 2.5 years, so I’ll rent my home out and cash in my private pension. God forbid 🙏🏻

[@wanderingdoc5075]

Thailand is cheap. You could retire now.

[@murraymuntain3720]

You need to be 50 years of age for a so-called retirement Visa. Plus there are Financial requirements.

[@wanderingdoc5075]

@@murraymuntain3720 I mean living in a place for 6 months, then you could leave for a week or two and come back. I can't imagine staying in one place for years without ever traveling, but if you want to stay in Thailand permanently a few Visa runs won't kill you.

[@murraymuntain3720]

I think the days of making Visa runs from Thailand might be a thing of the past. Although we seem to be in uncertain times now so who knows what could happen in the future.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Kiefer Humph! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@Jzarecta]

I think many people are used to a lifestyle and when they moved, they want to maintain that lifestyle so their expenses might be above what 'normal citizens' live under.

[@VagabondAwake]

JZA, thank you for being part of our community :-) Dan

[@donmcdonald4874]

Dan, What is the website that you use to find hotels? You mentioned one, but I’ve watched so many of your videos that I can’t remember where you mentioned it. It scanned multiple sites for the best deal?

[@VagabondAwake]

Here is my process for finding accomodations: vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/

[@ESL-O.G.]

Terrified of change. My uncle lived in the same house for 80 years. Some personalies travel. Some hate it. I've noticed it's mostly control freaks that don't travel because they can't control the factors

[@pameladeleone135]

I think that you are so right!

[@tman5634]

I'd say it's only a small % of people that have the urge to properly travel or indeed settle overseas for a more simple life & living. Many westerners are trapped in their own little material world, such a world that gives them continued, though short term kicks & happiness. I feel this sector of people would be terrified of giving that up for a total change & simpler life overseas. Unless life changing events make them reavaluate their life & what matters to them.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for the wise thoughts Andrew A, Pamela, and T Man. This channel is all about new ways of looking at things. Plus, comments, subscriptions, and likes, cause KZbin to grow our channel which also grows our income. So, thank you, :-) Dan

[@formica.]

Even traveling overseas is too much for most native Americans. If they haven't traveled when young, they won't see a point in it. Some people buy new cars, my parents had old cars and traveled. Another thing that roots a lot of retirees is family: siblings, elders to take care of, grandkids to enjoy. (I say native Americans because most of my friends in California were foreign born so travel is "normal" for them)

[@kentclark5594]

I Think you'll agree that the biggest wild card to retiring overseas (or retiring anywhere) is Health Care...I would consider it a real benefit to me, if you could talk about the HC costs & quality in various SEA countries. I know Thailand is cheaper & the HC quality is comparable to the USA. (my current home) I'm not too familiar with the HC in Cambodia, Malaysia or Vietnam, but I have been to these countries as a tourist. Much appreciated & thanks for your videos.

[@formica.]

Health care in Bangkok and KL are top notch. If you live in Vietnam or Cambodia, you go to those places for big dental and medical visits hospitals. For everyday medical in Saigon, there are good international clinics and dentists. They often post prices online, or you can email, because of the competitive medical tourism. Bangkok hospitals: Bumrungrad hospital, Bangkok hospital, Thonglor Dental Saigon clinics: Family Medical Practice, Victoria Health Care, West Coast Dental

[@kentclark5594]

@@formica. Thanks Formica.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hey Kent Clark, thanks for the great question. Thanks for commenting. Formica did a great job on identifying places I would be comfortable getting care. Here is my video on how I handle healthcare: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/ KZbin shows our videos to more people when they get more comments. So your comment is like you are giving us a pay raise. So, thank you! Dan

[@kentclark5594]

@@VagabondAwake Sounds like Thailand is the "Go To" HC country. I have a friend who gets a Physical in BK every year. He raves about the low cost & high quality. My retirement benefits include HC fully paid. I have to have a USA address within a covered area. Not sure how to get around this. FYI, I need my benefits because of health issues now & in the future. My plan now is to just be a tourist for a few months a year (winter in ca.) & live in Ca. spring/summer. I'd keep my house here in Ca. Any thoughts?

[@randyfocht737]

I would say that Malaysia has good health care...all except the very very difficult stuff. I pay 200 ringgits (about $50 us dollars) to see a top specialist there in the many private hospitals. But only 40 ringgits to see a good general doctor, and that INCLUDES the medicine!

[@martyh4777]

Very good report. I like your approach of categorization.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Marty H! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@good2go4]

Great video! Im the guy with the kids game on Amazon big fan! My mother will retire in about 2 years and shedont want to stay in Montreal for winter and well I think she wants to live maybe in Mexico but not sure i love to watch your video so I can help her and also prepare my journey if im lucky 😊

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Good2go! Your interactions help our channel grow! I saw the game on Amazon. It looks like a lot of fun! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@johndetommaso4689]

Hey Dan, Thanks for the great videos...You inspire me to travel! Question, do you keep a home base (owned home/s) in the country your from? I Have a nice home with a rental attached by the beach in So Cal. and I was thinking on selling and roaming the world for a few years. BTW, I don't need the money from the sale. What's your thought on that?

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you John Detommaso! Thanks for watching and commenting. I would give my real estate to a property manager and I would not sell it. More on that here: vagabondbuddha.com/how-to-retire-overseas/ :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@celtosaxon]

I think most of the “nouveau colonialists” you describe are what we call “package expats” here in Singapore, where the employer moved you and is paying for what appears to be a lavish lifestyle to the locals. The premise is to keep the employee whole versus the lifestyle they enjoyed back home - otherwise, employees are unlikely to accept the overseas posting.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said celtosaxon! Thanks for adding value to the community. That is an employee overseas assignment when they are bribing someone still working to export a well-needed skill set. The Nuevo Colonialist inside a gated community I am talking about could indeed be one of these employees but in the case I am discussing is just a retiree expat. Singapore is actually more expensive than the USA so not a typical spot for a retiree trying to step up in lifestyle for less money. Dan

[@celtosaxon]

@@VagabondAwake LOL - I sense a tinge of cynicism when you say bribe… but you are spot on, geo-arbitrage is contingent on localization. For me, my spending footprint is about half of a full package expat, but that’s still over $10k per month - kids school and housing are the two big ones.

[@mikeflair6800]

I wonder how much 'take advantage of the foreigner' is happening underneath the surface here...my guess is a lot! The local always seems to spend less, hmmmm???

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Mike Flair! Your interactions help our channel grow! About 70-80% of the extra cost si most expats pay is from their desire to recreate their old life in a new country. Renting a super nice place and buying only foreign brands in grocery stores, and hanging out in expat bars is the largest reason expats pay more than locals. Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@formica.]

That happens sometimes, a local will see a foreigner and raise a price. In my experience, it is rare. My wife worries about it more than me, so sometimes she leaves me home when shopping (at markets where prices aren't marked, not stores where prices are displayed). It really doesn't bother me. I am saving tons of money living here, and I don't mind helping out a vendor, they don't make much money. I used to not tip, because the locals never tip, but now I do, I round up the bill, or leave an amount to me that is trivial like $1 that has a value to a local of one meal. There are some cranky expats on the forums who squawk about the "expat tax". They have money, but they feel "ripped off" and complain about the cheating locals, and live a cranky life. They should go home. In your town, I'm sure you know where to get good deals on shoes, or firewood, or the cheapest gas station. You have local knowledge, you can spend less than outsiders. Until they figure it out. Long term expats figure it out too.

[@TheBigBananaaa]

I plan to live a higher standard of living in SE Asia ✅ in my western property I need to cook 🧑‍🍳 daily to keep my cost low and with the same budget I can dine out for lunch and dinner 🍽 in a lower cost of living city in SE Asia 😋

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for the wise thought Mr Macau. This channel is all about new ways of looking at things. Plus, comments, subscriptions, and likes, cause KZbin to grow our channel which also grows our income. So, thank you, :-) Dan

[@ralphstewart4025]

Good approach. Thanks.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing Ralph Stewart! It makes our community more interesting. :-) Dan :-) Please grab my free eBook if you haven't already. vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

Well this made a lot of sense! 👌

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Agustin! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

@@VagabondAwake I appreciate the sensible content. 👌

[@andykostynowicz]

For me the big fly in the ointment is Medical care, because as we age the time will come that we will need real medical treatment or hospitalization

[@VagabondAwake]

Here is what I do about health care: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/ But for quotes, Google "Expat health insurance in 'country name'" and get at least 3 quotes. It varies based upon your age and other factors.

[@samcleaver3315]

Items and brands from your home country are more expensive than local brands, and even more expensive than back at home. I was in Mexico last month and Pace picante sause was four times as expensive as the local brand. On the flip side, a highly rated tequila was a third of the price in Mexico compared to the US. It's not all doom and gloom if a person is open minded and willing to try local brands and local food.

[@VagabondAwake]

Well said Sam Cleaver! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan

[@hughjass1044]

I think a lot of people are just scared to go for it. I know a couple who talk about it a lot and keep saying they're going to do it but don't go more than 50 miles away from home on their summer holidays. They're always going "well, what if this or what if that." They want to live the lifestyle but are trying to find excuses not to. These people don't retire either cheap or overseas. Another reason is because a lot of people don't want to absorb themselves into local cultures. They want a copy of their home community in another country. I call these people "the half-scareds." They aren't scared to go, they're scared to let go of their old lifestyle and embrace a new one. These people often find they don't save much money then end up saying "what's the point?" and going home again. They retire overseas but they don't do it cheaply because they won't do the things necessary to make it cheap.

[@VagabondAwake]

Do you think they may do it eventually. That is one of the reasons I tell people to go for a temporary exploratory visit first so they can get all their doubts handled, before they make any decisions.

[@hughjass1044]

@@VagabondAwake Knowing these people the way I do, I very much doubt it. They talk a good game but they're just too tied to their home and their present lifestyle which isn't really a productive lifestyle or even a healthy one if you ask me. Another thing is that they're too attached to their "toys" which hobbles them financially.

[@moresugartradercc2744]

where ever we live in the world we tend to spend what we earn when we earn less we have to learn to get by without many things or find ways to get what we need cheaper but for those that have more disposable income they have more choices but by living in cheaper areas you can save more money so that you can afford to live or save invest more making your life more secure I personally like the warm weather so many of these cheap places are perfect for me because of the weather

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for the wise thought moresugar tradercc. Yes, living on less and saving gives you the power of continued choices. This channel is all about new ways of looking at things. Plus, comments, subscriptions, and likes, cause KZbin to grow our channel which also grows our income. So, thank you, :-) Dan

[@rickkirby4518]

I'm not going to Bangkok. I'm going to Panama. I'm familiar with the cost of living there.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing Rick Kirby! It makes our community more interesting. :-) Dan :-) Please grab my free eBook if you haven't already. vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@rob-bkk]

Interesting vid as usual but surely the decision not to retire abroad is not just about the money. How does one overcome the guilt of leaving behind grown up kids or elderly parents etc? I'd like to hear your views on this kind of issue in future vids. Thanks.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Rob Clayton! Why don't you ask them if they would be happy seeing you for a few weeks per year in the summer when you bring them to a rented lake house or would they rather have you move in next door and come over every day. Or maybe a few would want to come with you? Their answers might surprise you. Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@rickkirby4518]

Don't you think that 4k + per month should be sufficient in Central America?

[@VagabondAwake]

It would be for me. I could even do it on much less.

[@wisikahn]

With the amount of rent in the U.S. I live like a king in several foreign countries..

[@VagabondAwake]

Sad but true in my experience.

[@MrZola1234]

I have an interest in retiring overseas, but I probably won’t…my parents are just getting to the age they need some help and that will grow over the next decade. Even if they both passed when I was in my 60s I feel like my sister may need help and miss my mom a lot so I doubt I will move abroad.

[@formica.]

It's ok to dream. Life throws curve balls, you don't know what will happen. Maybe plan annual trips where you stay in one town, Airbnb, shop at markets, meet expats, get a feel for a foreign life.

[@VagabondAwake]

Great question RamsnDodgersfan. Well said formica! Thanks for adding value to the community. Dan

[@suphatrachaiyasit7531]

Great channel Dan but it's not just about money some of us have children and pets that we love so are somewhat stuck thailand would be my choice but the weather is just to much for me most days it's to hot to even exercise and it's not just the heat it's very humid and very little to no wind untill evening and they always change the rules so would never feel secure in my old age

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Suphatra Chaiyasit! Thanks for watching and commenting. Did you know both Thailand, Mexico, and many other parts of the world have high elevation locations that are cool year-round? :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@suphatrachaiyasit7531]

Thanks Dan didn't know thailand had a place that wasn't so hot where is that mate please ? Been all over thailand and my wife who's thai doesn't know either thanks

[@fruitloops3718]

Wow we have a lot of Nuevo colonialists here in Florida. They hid behind gated walls and pay a handsome price for the pleasure. Little do they know the personnel that work in these communities bring in plenty of thieves that commit petty crimes and breaking. Sad actually. They are typically scared of their own shadows.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Steve Thedford! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@stevenponte6655]

Great video! I have been devouring your videos over the last few weeks. A quick question, you talk about your first big overseas trip being in India. I am curious if you have ever thought about India as a destination for retirement? I note that it isn't mentioned in any of your guides. Or you just dont think it is a good place for foreigners to retire.

[@formica.]

This will be an interesting answer! There is a cool (literally) colonial hill station in southern India, I had family that lived there. Ootacamund is the old name, wikipedia the nickname, "Ooty". Another interesting place is Goa, the old Portuguese colony, more upscale I think, beach life.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for the great question. I really enjoyed my time in India, but I moved away from there in 2010 and only returned a few times because I know it so well now and there are so many other places I don't know as well. Thus, my cost of living data for India is not fresh anymore. I hesitate to write reports with 12 year old data. But I will return to a few of my favorites one day and write reports on India. In the mean time, if you are curious what some of my favorite places are in India, you can visit my old traveblog here: www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/A-Travel-Story/

[@edaytrade2157]

Lovely couple. Am now contemplating to retire outside mainland USA. one of my worry is how to handle snail mail by the post office. And some financial institutions require US address. Thanks for sharing.

[@jonathanmccarthy6126]

Look at Traveling mailbox and other mail collection companies👍

[@davideasterling5262]

There are ways to do this in Mexico. The mail to the USA is shipped out once a week on Monday and mailed in South Texas. So your USA letters will take about twice as long to arrive at the destination. The company here is called "Post and Ship" It is harder to receive mail from the US but that also can be done with a US company that holds all your mail and sends it in one package once or twice a month by DHL or others. If you use the Mexican mail system it is about 15 times slower than the USA post offices. A letter/post card sent from the USA will arrive here 5 to six weeks later. Really. Also there is ONE post office here in a city of about 500,000 people. Makes "snail mail" sound like "rocket ship mail".

[@martypoll]

I use my sister’s address in the US but there are mail collection companies. Four years after leaving the US I probably only get a handful of mail envelopes sent to my sister’s each year.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hey Eday Trade, thanks for the great question. Thanks for commenting. I am using Martin P's solution, the comment above mine. I also did another video related to this topic that you should watch, here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZy6e5iPhaqKgrM KZbin shows our videos to more people when they get more comments. So your comment is like you are giving us a pay raise. So, thank you! Dan

[@LJ-jq8og]

Dan for those of us who do not wish to "country club lifestyle" or the unnecessary social hot air interaction the thought of living with locals in an unpopular area to me is the ultimate success. The last thing I want to be exposed to is more elitist "blue city" "limousine liberals."

[@BillGreenAZ]

"Living with the locals" will more likely give you way more social opportunities than living "the country club lifestyle". After I retire, I don't want to be holed up into my house with no social interaction with anyone. So "living with the locals" is a good way for loners like me to stay in touch with people. I hope the same happens for you too.

[@LJ-jq8og]

@@BillGreenAZ Thank you kind Sir! You too !

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you L J! Thanks for watching and commenting. Daily interaction and friendship should be a part of any full life. Plus, the locals around the world are naturally curious about people that have moved to their country. People love seeing their country through someone else's fresh eyes. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@whynot2734]

can you pick a country or city and show your pic's and narrate about each pic and something about the place or subject ? No pressure.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hey whynot, thanks for sharing this idea. I appreciate the ideas. I will try one out and see how it is received. :-) Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan

[@davideasterling5262]

Thanks for the reasoned video about the cost of living overseas. For 16 years I have lived in the west coast of Mexico in a paradise. Every winter when the freezing snows come to the USA I am happy to have sunny days with daytime in the 80's and at night in the 60's. It does get hot here in the summer (rainy season) but with fans and A/C in the house it's not much of a bother. I pay zero dlls. for home heating in the winter. Nothing. We have a small portable electric heater in the house but have never needed it. I learned the local language from my wife and her family. I shop where mostly locals do and sometimes indulge in specialty foods only available from US stores. The local seafood is great and fresh fruits and vegetables all year round. Here we have good public transportation in the bus system. It is easy to use and goes to every part of the city. I do miss my relatives and infrequently visit them. I took my young son to Orlando for a Magic Kingdom visit. And once a visit to the Grand Canyon. It helps to have good internet to keep in touch with family in the states. Years ago I paid over 5,000 dlls a year in Pennsylvania taxes for a nice house in the Philly suburbs. Here the annual taxes are around 200 dlls a year for a house nearly the same size. Sure, there are no big libraries here and they don't pay teachers here much, but this difference is also found for electric bill, water bill, and home repairs and other services. Gasoline for a car is actually a little higher here than in the US. We live in "el centro" not in a gated community. The cost of money here is than in the US. While the USA has long term interest rates at 3% my wife recently got a 17 year mortgage from a local bank at 11%. Her credit card rate? more than 40%. Overall I would say my cost of living here is about one third (or less) what it was in the Northeast area of the US. If you don't speak the language here you will be charged more to use a taxi and pay for services. I drive a 15 year old car and do not have a driver. Car repairs here are very inexpensive. Car insurance is very inexpensive.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for your cost of living numbers David Easterling! If you ever decide to do a full monthly budget, I would love to hear about it here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Have a great day! Dan

[@magnoliahampton7298]

Hello would you advise old 65 year old woman to travel over seas alone to the places you recommend. I subscribe to your channel and have been watching you for little while.

[@VagabondAwake]

Of course. Neither a man or woman is tougher than a bullet Magnolia. When either shows up in a new town anywhere in the world, even the USA or Europe, you are at a disadvantage. I have a report that explains how I stay safe when I arrive in a place I am not familiar with yet. Here is a link to that report: vagabondbuddha.com/how-to-travel-the-world-safely/ Thanks for watching and commenting. It helps our business grow. Dan

[@Bri-wi8kq]

Dan, there is another budget category - yachtie at times living on $500/ mth...or less! They search long and hard for that "perfect 30' old cruising sail yacht" prepare, refit and maintain it themselves. They often ride folding bikes, fish or spearfish and have perfected the true tight-ass methods to make their dollar go as far as humanly possible. If they ever lose say $20 they'll cry.... They host and socialize on each other's yachts where they share their most sacred miser-scams! Now I know what you are going to say, Dan - yachts, even sail yachts cost???? Well the diesel motor can be modified to run on old cooking oils. Sails from time to time need repairs or replacement (sail exchanges are good for 2nd hand canvas) and smaller yachts are cheaper to slip, antifoul and refit than large shiny money pits! Love your channel, thank you. Bri, Top Hat 25'

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Bri, So you have a Top Hat 25'? Would you like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SwkGWgdqhnrJY Your interview could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for people. If you have a business, service, or KZbin channel, you could share that on the interview. Best, Dan

[@Bri-wi8kq]

@@VagabondAwake I would love to be interviewed Dan, as I said I've enjoyed your channel and have learned a lot from it, thank you. I'm starting a refit on "Wicked Games", my 25" Top Hat(bought in for just $500 Au over a year ago!!!) in a fortnight and would love to share progress photos and short clips and discuss the benefits and disadvantages of pocket yachts cruising, slow and relaxed travel. Do would you mind if we did the interview in February/March? As I said small yachts are cheaper, less stressful and with the improved technology/weather forecasting it's good to wait for the perfect weather window before starting a longer passage avoiding the worst storms... I'm planning on late March to head north to the Whitsunday Islands and in our winter(Covid willing) sail for New Caledonia, Tonga & Fiji. Then covid willing cruising through Indonesia and visit a friend in Singapore, and then who knows? The message I wish to convey is that sailing on a budget doesn't have to be too arduous or feril if you set up right and make sensible plans. You can anchor up in lovely protected bays and cruise on a very lean budget avoiding the noise and expenses of marinas... there's lots of KZbin sailing channels. I should also warn that the impact of covid has been far worse for yachties than flight travellers. Chat soon Brian

[@formica.]

@@Bri-wi8kq Yes please interview!

[@Bri-wi8kq]

@@formica. Would love to once I've done the refit on Wicked Dreams so I've got pics to show as I rant...

[@VagabondAwake]

You ready yet Bri? Interview? vagabondbuddha.com/contact/

[@KWKevolution]

Can you share how you stay in shape while traveling?

[@Southeastasiantraveler]

Walk a lot, don’t overeat and largely avoid alcohol.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hi Kylek, Here is my workout routine. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJiyY6xngKl6pM0 Thank you , Dan

[@ftkinsella]

Hey Dan I’ve been looking through your videos for a spot. Have you been to Laos? My youngest daughter is dating a young man who’s father lives there and he wants us to visit. I don’t have a problem with a trip like that but will need to do some research. Hahahahaha. Take care buddy. Cheers!!!l

[@kenbakameyer1649]

Dear F&T, have been living in Asia the last 40+ years. Strongly encourage you to look hard at Malaysia and Cambodia. Forget anything about the PI. It’s a was.

[@ftkinsella]

@@kenbakameyer1649 thanks man but I have to visit the father and at least have a beer. I just need to keep my mouth shut. Hahahahaha.

[@VagabondAwake]

F&T, thank you for being part of our community Yes, I have been to Laos before I started this channel. It is a beautiful country with quite reasonable process. I visited the cities of Vientenne, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang . Make sure to see the Kuang Si Water falls when in Luang Prabang. I don't have any videos to show you, but my best photos of Laos start here in the above video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6arYn55lNKifcU :-) Dan

[@mikemikie8312]

Hi Dan ,yes for me I prefer living like most locals , I have always found it's a very fruitful way to live and you learn so much more about where you are and where and what you can do , the locals enjoy time with you as much as you do with them ,it's always been the way I travel and yes I have tasted the more expensive root but it's not no way near as good plus it costs a lot more , you can end up paying 3,4 even 5 times as much for food and it's mostly the same food locals cook and eat and they know places with cheaper rents with everything a hotel or up market rental has ,locals know how to spread the cost . but a very good report Dan as there is a way to live for all types .standards and requirements are in every country so a person can find and have what they desire . kind regards to Qiang take care both of you .

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this Mike Mikie. Happy New Year! Dan

[@axislivedotorg]

Thanks!

[@VagabondAwake]

You are welcome joE Lundgreen. Your comment grows our channel. :-) Dan Have you seen our KZbin playlist for each country? kzbin.infoplaylists

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

I would look for an area without a large Rooster population and check out the number of dogs wondering about. Living next to a large family could be a noisy lifestyle. Karaoke and parties all night. 😂 Look to see if a top quality hospital is near by and an airport within a couple hours.

[@formica.]

Is there any area in Asia without roosters, dogs, rats, karaoke, burning trash, cigarette smoke, incense, open sewer drains? I like the bicycle and motorbike vendors though, some still sing their jingles, most now use recordings. And I miss the Asian Koel birds in Bangkok even at 5am - listen on youtube.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for your thoughts guys. :-) Dan

[@dnguyen787]

Maybe because most people value their homeland, relatives and longtime friends than saving money...

[@VagabondAwake]

That holds true for 80 to 90% of the world. In fact, many people never leave their home country for their entire life.

[@goutfromfriedokra3936]

which poor country has great healthcare? Thailand?

[@martypoll]

Thailand does indeed have excellent health care at low prices. I have found the health care here to be as good as what I experienced during 60 years in the US. It definitely is cheaper and I have mostly better access.

[@VagabondAwake]

Hey gout from fried okra, thanks for the great question. Yes, Thailand is great, so is Malaysia. So is Vietnam. In Latin America, Panama is great, Colombia, and Ecuador. The question is more about which hospital and doctor you pick than which country. More than half of the world has premium, doctors and hospitals if you can afford them, and for half the price or less than half of the USA. Just google "best healthcare in the world" and read a few different reports and surveys.

[@mustafahassan19]

I like you an your pretty wife like your advice !

[@VagabondAwake]

I appreciate that!

[@joebruhin2098]

Nice video my friend...there were many places I would like to move to 30-40 years ago...now, not so much and more difficult for me, the main reason is population, so many people and so noisy... I love southeast Asia and would love to move there if I could only go back in time. I have been to very beautiful places 12 years ago and returned in 2020, those paradises were ruined. Sweet peaceful fishing villages with generous loving people turned into hot spots. Most spectacular spots on the planet have been discovered and turned into tourist delights, that's great fo some and gives commerce to that community but there is a price. I traveled a lot in the late 70's imo much more adventurous, peaceful, romantic and less complicated...not sure I can be seduced by the wonderful flavor (a lot scene in this video) all the world can offer but maybe I will come out of my own private Idaho one more time to so see if I can experience the mystical beauty that once existed.

[@fruitloops3718]

I bought my paradise in 1998. A little island in the Philippines with nice people, great waves. Fishing and just about anything else a man could want. To date my paradise has been found out and turned into tourist hot spot. Good for the pocketbook but the environment has changed significantly. I don't think I'll retire there. So my search starts anew. Like the slow travel idea.

[@joebruhin2098]

@@fruitloops3718 Hi Steve, I love the Philippines even married a Filipina, I'd like to return there and have a few ideas where but things change so rapidly and I'm getting older and don't really have the time to be searching and searching....sorry to hear about your situation, i can understand your disappointment, sounds as if you may be in one of the places I was talking about, if this were 20 years ago you would be content and satisfied....the internet is a double edge sword, i think i'd be better off without it..slow travel is a good way to go no doubt but not ideal for me...wow you were there a long long time.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you joe bruhin! Thanks for watching and commenting. There are about 10 small places that remain unknown for every place that blew up in popularity. Don't give up hope. Just don't go back to places you loved 20 years ago. Go to smaller unknown places an hour or two away. :-) Dan Do you have my free eBook yet? That is here: vagabondbuddha.com/fire-your-boss-travel-world/

[@joebruhin2098]

@@VagabondAwake Good idea, i have explored that a bit, hahaha and not the only one thinking that way but i think it's possible, i'm looking into making a trip soon.

[@terryashley4674]

429 days remaining. 😊

[@VagabondAwake]

Great story Terry Ashley. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan

[@gabe2045]

🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@VagabondAwake]

Thank you Gabe! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan

[@edmondpharez5028]

OH! I DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL OR SMOKE CIGARETTES OR DO ANY KIND OF ILLICIT DRUGS OR GAMBLING, THAT I'M PRETTY SURE COULD BE EXPENSIVE!

[@barrydwyer2039]

Trappist monks have a nice little place for you, you forgot to mention food and women which could be extremely expensive 😋(joke). As Dan the man says life is only expensive when you can't afford it.

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the matter guys! Dan

[@christmas10023]

Beach ⛱️🏖️

[@VagabondAwake]

Thanks for commenting TH. :-) Dan

[@mickeygarcia1876]

The Nitty Gritty. Common Sense !!! LOL !!!

[@VagabondAwake]

Master G, thank you for being part of our Gritty community :-) Dan

[@danielsnook5029]

Great vid but not enough bikini pics. We need Dan in a Mankini!!🤣

[@VagabondAwake]

Next time! (not) lol.

[@doctork1708]

You, unfortunately, have focused on the word “cheap”, and greedy, self-absorbed expats, especially Americans. In addition, there’s a big difference living in a place and visiting even visiting for a few months or a year. When living someplace permanently you participate in the full economy. The need more than just housing, food and occasional medical care. Many things that expats want must be exported and are far more expensive than in the country of origin.

[@j562gee0hdeewestsdegethemuLa]

Only poor people do that's why it's a last resort .

[@VagabondAwake]

Here is why I live outside the USA: vagabondbuddha.com/why-i-left-the-usa-forever/