But having lived abroad, I must say that there are other attractions to living overseas. You live abroad for the culture and the adventure.
There’s something special about an American living abroad. As an expat, you’re cool and special. And if you take the time to learn the foreign language you can make friends that you would never meet in America so your life and experiences are richer. People are always fascinated and curious about American culture and you can be sort of an ambassador for the American way of life (whatever you think it should be).
I’d be happy to live in a one-bedroom apartment in a foreign capital somewhere in the world. My plan for retirement is to spend most of my time abroad with a base in San Diego.[/quote]
Totally agree with you Brian. The culture and adventure are really amazing. I still remember when I was telling family and friends I was going to quit my job, sell my house and properties, cars and move out of the USA, everyone thought I was crazy! To me the adventure was so exciting.
And you’re right..you DEFINITELY have to learn the language if you want a truly rewarding experience. To be honest, most of the Americans I met abroad never took the time to learn the local language. For that reason I never had any real desire to hang out with too many ex-pats that didn’t want to learn the local language. My most rewarding and long-lasting friendships I made were with the locals.
I also plan to spend a good bit of time in retirement abroad. Once the kids are out of the house and in college. I still would keep a property in San Diego but as you mentioned Brian, in a world capital city, properties are much smaller and everything is closer. You can get away with a fabulous one bedroom apartment in the heart of the city.
Traveling and getting to know the world is one of the most amazing things to me…
