Search Results for: Our Travel Cost

Part 1…Pros and cons of the top ten most affordable countries for retirement living and travel…

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We boarded the Eurostar train, which travels under the English Channel, as we made our way to London for the second half of August 2014.

This morning, on the news, we repeatedly heard about the top ten states in the US for retirement. Since many of our readers live outside the US and can’t afford the high cost of living in this country for the long term, we decided to research the top ten countries worldwide for eventual retirement.

Adding the pros and cons is as important as listing the locations since many factors may be a deterrent for some. Thus, we’ve compiled this information with pros and cons in order to assist in the important topics for further research, which you may do on your own.

Tomorrow, in Part 2, we’ll list the second batch of the top ten countries for retirement or vacation/holiday again with the pros and cons.

In 2024, finding affordable countries to live in or travel to depends on several factors, including cost of living, safety, quality of life, and accessibility. Below are ten countries that are generally considered affordable, along with their pros and cons.

1. Vietnam

Pros:

  • Very low cost of living, especially for housing and food.
  • Rich culture and history with plenty of scenic landscapes.
  • Great street food and vibrant local markets.
  • Strong expat communities in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

Cons:

  • Language barriers can be challenging.
  • Infrastructure in rural areas is less developed.
  • Pollution and traffic congestion in major cities.

2. Portugal

Pros:

  • Relatively low cost of living compared to other Western European countries.
  • Beautiful coastline, historic cities, and mild climate.
  • High quality of life with good healthcare and public transportation.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming expat community.

Cons:

  • Bureaucracy can be slow and frustrating.
  • Language learning is necessary for full integration.
  • Wages are relatively low compared to other EU countries.

3. Mexico

Pros:

  • Affordable cost of living, particularly outside of major tourist areas.
  • Warm climate and diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine.
  • Proximity to the U.S. for easy travel.

Cons:

  • Safety concerns in certain regions.
  • Language barrier in rural areas.
  • Bureaucratic processes can be cumbersome.

4. Thailand

Pros:

  • Very low cost of living with affordable housing and food.
  • Excellent healthcare services at a fraction of Western prices.
  • Warm climate year-round with beautiful beaches and mountains.
  • Strong digital nomad community, especially in Chiang Mai.

Cons:

  • Air pollution can be an issue in some areas.
  • Visa regulations can be complex and require careful planning.
  • Cultural differences may take time to adapt to.

5. Colombia

Pros:

  • Affordable cost of living, especially in cities like Medellín.
  • Beautiful landscapes, from beaches to mountains.
  • Vibrant culture with festivals, music, and dance.
  • Improved safety and infrastructure in recent years.

Cons:

  • Safety concerns remain in certain areas.
  • Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken.
  • Healthcare outside major cities can be limited.

Please check back tomorrow for more.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 14, 2014:

The other tiny room in Bistrotters in Paris with seating for 12.  Total seating appeared to be available for 24 diners. For more photos, please click here.

What to do if you become ill while traveling…

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This goat was chained on a hill by the road. It was sad to see.
Because I have excellent insurance coverage, when my blood pressure went through the roof, I knew I could order an ambulance and go to a hospital with an outstanding reputation, all of which would be covered by my insurance plan. The services provided to me were 100% covered by Medicare A and B, and my Plan G supplement covered any deductibles. I left the hospital without being ill. What a relief!
But, over the years, I had worried about coverage in foreign countries, especially when the travel insurance we had in the past never covered any of my previous expenses for open heart surgery and complications there. We had to pay everything out of pocket, which we did in full before we left the country.
If we hadn’t paid in South Africa, they would have tagged our passports, and we wouldn’t have been allowed to leave the country. That’s a scary thought! The result is that quality insurance is imperative when traveling. We had no idea they wouldn’t pay the enormous bill.
Getting sick in a foreign land is scary enough, let alone wondering if your insurance will ultimately pay. Of course, your first consideration is receiving quality care and getting you through the crises.
I hadn’t mentioned this in yesterday’s post…but while I was in the hospital on Thursday, Friday, and part of Saturday, I encountered issues with not having a primary care physician in Minnesota. The specialists didn’t quite know how to handle my case, which surprised me. But at least I got through the crises, and they were able to stabilize me.
The doctors even suggested I get a primary care doctor, which I had tried to do months after we first arrived, but after contacting about ten, I could not get an appointment. They were booked to as far as September, and by then, we’d be long gone. Plus, after we leave for Cleveland, having a primary care doctor in Minnesota would make no sense since we don’t plan to return for a while.
These are some of the long-term challenges of traveling the world that one must address when one needs medical care. There is nothing we could have done to prepare for such an event. Instead, as often, we figure it out as we go. All I can say is that the best thing I ever did was get signed up for Medicare with a good supplement, which I took care of while we were in Nevada during the open enrollment period.

Getting sick in a foreign country can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to manage the situation effectively. Obviously, if you have a life-threatening situation, your first concern is getting to the closest medical center, wherever you may be. If you anticipate medical issues based on your current health, here are some suggestions as to what you may do:

  1. Stay Calm: Panicking will not help. Stay calm and assess your symptoms.
  2. Rest and Hydrate: Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Drink bottled water if you’re unsure about the quality of tap water.
  3. Medication: Use any over-the-counter medication you brought with you. Common medications for pain relief, fever, or stomach issues can be helpful.
  4. Contact Your Embassy: Your embassy can provide guidance on medical facilities and assistance.
  5. Local Medical Facilities: Find the nearest hospital or clinic. Many countries have English-speaking doctors in major cities.
  6. Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, contact your provider to understand your coverage and get assistance finding medical care.
  7. Local Pharmacy: Visit a local pharmacy for advice and over-the-counter medication. Pharmacists can often provide helpful advice for minor ailments.
  8. Language Barrier: Use translation apps to communicate your symptoms if there’s a language barrier.
  9. Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices to avoid worsening your condition or spreading illness to others.
  10. Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local friends, family, and your embassy.
  11. Documentation: Keep all medical documents, prescriptions, and receipts in case you need them for insurance claims or follow-up care.
  12. Follow Up: Once you return home, follow up with your primary care physician to ensure complete recovery.

We are grateful for having the appropriate health insurance and for receiving good care to help me through the crisis. Although I feel weak since leaving the hospital, I am much better, and my blood pressure is normal. I will be very grateful if I avoid another such event until we get to Cleveland Clinic.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 29, 2014:

While on a walk, we spotted this waterfall. For more photos, please click here.

Why don’t we buy a motorhome and travel the US or rent an in other countries?…Advantages and disadvantages…

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Many travelers may find traveling their country in a motorhome (caravan or RV) appealing, but not to us. Not our photo.

We are often asked, “Why don’t you travel to the US or other countries by motorhome?” We haven’t in the past almost 12 years because we’ve spent most of our time outside the US, making owning or renting an RV impractical in another country for an extended period.

We are also not interested in renting an RV for short periods when we can easily travel outside the US using other means of travel, which provides us with a broader range of locations, safety, and cost options. Most certainly, traveling in the US in an RV is appealing, but neither of us, at our age, has any interest in the responsibility, cost, and upkeep.

In 1978, after subdividing some land in Minnetonka, Minnesota, I traded one of the vacant lots for a 36-foot King’s Highway Motorhome. As a single mom of two boys, I learned to drive and maintain it, and we often traveled the US, often with friends joining us, when I had time to take vacations while running my business.

Eventually, after realizing we wouldn’t use it as often as I would have liked, I rented it, off and on for a year, eventually selling it for a reasonable price. The experience left me with a dislike for traveling by RV based on the work required to set it up and take it down at various RV sites, with what seemed to be constant maintenance along with the cost of fuel.

Early on, before we decided to travel the world, we investigated purchasing a motorhome but lost interest when we both realized the cost would be prohibitive in today’s world since we aren’t campers and would have preferred modern conveniences over “roughing it.”

Over the years, we have met many travelers and friends who have reveled in home-free travel, living full-time in a motorhome. We commend those who made this big decision, but it wasn’t for us.

Today, we share our perspective of traveling by motorhome, RV, or camper, offering this unique experience with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown:

Advantages

  1. Flexibility and Freedom: You can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and change your plans on the go. This flexibility is one of the biggest perks of motorhome travel.
  2. Cost Savings: While the initial cost can be high, you save on accommodation and dining costs. Campsites are generally cheaper than hotels, and you can cook your own meals.
  3. Comfort and Convenience: Modern motorhomes are equipped with many amenities like beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, providing the comforts of home while on the road.
  4. Closer to Nature: Motorhome travel allows you to stay in scenic locations such as national parks, beaches, and mountains, bringing you closer to nature.
  5. Family and Pet-Friendly: Traveling with family members and pets is easier. Everyone has their own space, and you can bring along your pet without the hassle of finding pet-friendly accommodations.
  6. Social Aspect: Campgrounds and RV parks can be very social places, offering a sense of community and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers.

Disadvantages

  1. Initial Cost and Maintenance: Purchasing a motorhome is a significant investment. Additionally, maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs can add up.
  2. Driving Challenges: Motorhomes can be difficult to drive, especially for those not used to handling large vehicles. Parking can also be a challenge in urban areas.
  3. Limited Mobility in Urban Areas: Large vehicles can be impractical in cities, making it difficult to navigate narrow streets, find parking, or access certain attractions.
  4. Fuel Consumption: Motorhomes generally consume more fuel than regular cars, making long-distance travel expensive.
  5. Upkeep and Storage: Motorhomes require storage space when not in use. Additionally, maintenance can be time-consuming and costly.
  6. Dependency on Campsites: While you can park almost anywhere, for overnight stays with amenities like water, electricity, and waste disposal, you often need to stay in designated campgrounds.
  7. Weather Dependence: Traveling by motorhome can be less enjoyable in bad weather, as it limits outdoor activities and can make driving more hazardous.

In summary, motorhome travel can be an enriching and flexible way to explore, but it comes with cost considerations, driving difficulty, and maintenance, none of which are appealing to our lifestyle.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 23, 2014:

Ominous-looking cloud at dusk from our veranda in Madeira. For more photos, please click here.

What happens if you don’t return to your cruise ship on time after a port of call tour?…Family of nine stranded…

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The Norweigan Encore sailed away before the family of nine returned from their tour.

This morning, I stumbled across an article on this site that piqued my interest. After 34 cruises and many tours at ports of call, we were always well aware of how imperative it is to return to the ship on time before it sails away, heading to its next port of call. If we failed to return on time, it would be necessary to fly to the next port of call to pick up the cruise, incurring costs for hotels, meals, and flights, often expensive from somewhat remote locations.

We paid particular attention to the time, making a point of returning to the ship in plenty of time to avoid the hassle, cost, and inconvenience. When encountering the article below, we felt it was important to share this story with our readers to remind everyone of the importance of getting back to their ship on time:

The family of nine was left stranded in remote Alaska after the cruise ship had departed without them.

The family was left with a $9,000 bill after the holiday mistake…

Zoe Griffin

A family of nine found themselves stranded in Alaska after a mix-up with a local tour operator caused them to miss their scheduled cruise departure.

What was intended to be a memorable trip of a lifetime might now be recalled for very different reasons. The Gault family faced hefty costs to return to Tulsa, Oklahoma when the ship containing their clothes, passports, and medication sailed from Ketchikan port without them.

The family, comprising of two parents, six children, and a 78-year-old grandmother, was also hit with an immediate fine of almost $9,000, working out at $971 per passenger, by Norwegian Cruise Lines for missing the vessel.

That fee stemmed from the US Customs and Border Protection’s Passenger Vessel Services Act, which they violated by not visiting a foreign port before they returned to the US.

The family’s nightmare started when they went on an excursion to see a lumberjack show on the Norwegian Encore ship they were traveling, which docked in Ketchikan in Alaska.

After watching the show, the group tried to catch a bus back to the port by a local tour operator but were told that the bus was full and they had to wait for another one.

“We go to get on the bus and one of the attendees is like, ‘The bus is full and you know, you got to wait for the next bus’,” Joshua recounted to KJRH.

However, that bus never came, and after frantically calling the port authority to arrange transportation, they finally arrived back at the docks to see Norwegian Encore sailing away — taking their passports, medication, and clothes with it.

“We all had to quit cold turkey medication these last few days because it was all on the cruise ship,” Joshua added.

Stranded in Ketchikan, a remote port 300 miles from Alaska’s capital of Juneau, with no accommodation or transportation, the family worked out how to arrange transportation back to their home in Tulsa. However, as they looked into booking flights, they found that Joshua’s credit card had already been charged the customs fee of almost $9,000.

Joshua claims that they had to pay for flights for nine people, hotel stays along the way, and food. The trip ultimately took them several days, during which they had canceled flights and overnight airport stays, during which time some family members caught COVID-19.

After returning to Oklahoma, Joshua added: “So yeah, we’re beat down right now. We’re unhealthy and beaten down.”

Cruise line officials said they would reimburse the family for the out-of-pocket expenses, the fee they incurred from US Customs and Border Patrol, and a pro-rated refund for the two missed cruise days.

A spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Lines said: “On the afternoon of Friday, 12 July, a family of nine guests missed the ship’s all-aboard time in Ketchikan, Alaska, due to a misstep by a local tour operator. When the guests did not return to the ship at the published time, we attempted to contact them but could not reach them. As such, we alerted the local port agent in Ketchikan and requested that they assist the family with booking a hotel for the night.

“As the guests would be unable to downline in the next port of call, Victoria, British Columbia, the port agent also helped the guests secure flights to Seattle the following day, 13 July.

“We will be reimbursing the family for all of the out-of-pocket expenses they incurred over these two days due to missing the ship in Ketchikan, including meals, accommodations, etc. Reimbursements will be processed once receipts for these expenses are provided to us. Additionally, we have already initiated the process to refund the family for the fee imposed by the US Customs and Border Patrol as a result of the guests not visiting a foreign port before returning to the US, as required when an itinerary originates from the US in accordance with the Passenger Vessel Services Act.

“These guests will also receive a prorated refund for the two missed cruise days. As a gesture of goodwill, the company will also be providing each of the nine guests with a future cruise credit in the form of a 20 percent discount on their cruise fare that can be used towards their next voyage.”

Although the cruise line partially reimbursed the family for this situation, it is a harsh reminder of how important it is to avoid missing a cruise ship’s departure at any port of call.

Note: Most cruise ships will wait for passengers who don’t return on time if they’ve booked a ship-arranged tour. Often, cruise passengers book their own tours based on the lower costs of such tours, as opposed to those arranged by the cruise line. It was unusual for the cruise line to reimburse/credit the passengers for the expenses in this type of scenario.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 22, 2014:

‘The inflorescence is a complex structure that includes the flowers that will develop into fruits.” We spotted this banana tree and it’s blooms in Madeira, Portugal. The hanging pink and yellowish protrusions are the flowers. For more photos, please click here.

On a lighter note, a delicious new recipe…Quick and easy home cooking…Tomorrow, Part 2, Pet-friendly travel…

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My four baked tuna melt patties.

I found this recipe online at this site but made a few modifications to make it more to our liking. The recipe called for making nine patties, but I made 18 since we preferred to prepare enough for two nights, cooking nine each night for dinner. The half-batch of batter left after making the first batch kept well, covered in a glass bowl with a lid in the refrigerator, enabling me to prepare a freshly baked batch each evening just before dinner.

Also, we had a large salad with chopped romaine lettuce, chopped celery, grape tomatoes, diced red bell peppers, and shelled edamame, tossed with homemade yogurt dressing: Greek yogurt, sweetener, Himalayan salt, a dash of organic vinegar, made-to-taste. Tom had rice on the side.

Keto Tuna Melt Patties

SERVINGS: 18 patties

  • 6 large eggs, hand beaten
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 cans well-drained (5 ounces each) wild-caught water-packed tuna
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Preheat oven to 400 ℉ (205 ℃). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spray or brush with oil.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs. Stir in chopped onions, shredded cheese, well-drained canned tuna, and softened cream cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a patty. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture. This recipe makes about 18 patties baked in two batches of 9.
  • Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip the patties over. (If the patties are still too soft to be flipped over, bake for a few more minutes.) Bake for about five more minutes until the patties look golden brown.

Two carb grams per patty, perfect for keto, low carb, or any chosen way of eating. Although these have a higher carb count than I’d usually prefer for a dinner entree, I made an exception and kept the carb count low for the remainder of my day with hard-boiled eggs and raw veggies for breakfast and Fage Greek yogurt for an after-dinner snack.

These tuna patties are so delicious that I must avoid making them too often. When Tom likes a dish, as a picky eater, I’m tempted to make it often, especially in a case like this recipe, which took no more than ten minutes to put together and another 20 minutes to bake. I try to make various dishes and rotate them to avoid losing interest in any of our favorites. This dish is now on our favorites list.

We’re staying in today, but tomorrow, we’re heading to the new Costco store in Chaska for Tom’s hearing aid appointment. While there, we’ll purchase additional grocery and toiletry items. Tom’s appointment was initially scheduled for August at the Eden Prairie store, which is only blocks from here.

But after the Chaska store opened a few weeks ago, they called and asked if he’d like an earlier appointment at the new location, and he was thrilled about it. Doing so would allow him to make any necessary adjustments before we leave Minnesota on August 25.

That’s it for today, folks. We’ll be back with Part 2, Pet-friendly travel…Hotels.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 16, 2014:

In Madeira, we spotted fishing boats in the village of Camara de Lobos. For more photos, please click here.

How does the grave attempt to assassinate a political candidate impact worldwide travel?..

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A beautiful red rose was in the holiday home’s garden in Madeira, Portugal, in 2014.

The following travel information was gathered from various travel news sources regarding the attempted assassination of Donald Trump:

“An assassination attempt on a high-profile figure like Donald Trump could exacerbate geopolitical tensions, particularly if the assailant’s motives or affiliations have international ramifications. Countries with strained relations with the United States might face increased scrutiny or diplomatic repercussions.

Travel advisories could be issued or updated, warning citizens about potential risks in certain regions. This could affect travel plans, with some travelers opting to cancel or postpone trips to areas perceived as unstable or dangerous.

The travel and tourism industry, already sensitive to political and security developments, would likely feel the economic impact of such an incident. Heightened security measures and geopolitical tensions could lead to declining international travel, as leisure and business travelers might become more cautious.

Airlines, hotels, and other businesses in the travel sector could experience a revenue downturn. The ripple effect might also be felt in related industries, such as hospitality, retail, and entertainment, particularly in major travel hubs.

Public perception plays a crucial role in shaping travel behavior. An assassination attempt on Donald Trump or any other political candidate could lead to heightened fears about personal safety, influencing people’s willingness to travel. Some individuals might avoid international travel altogether, while others might be more selective about their destinations.

Social media and news outlets would likely play a significant role in shaping these perceptions. Extensive coverage of the incident could amplify fears and contribute to a climate of uncertainty and caution among potential travelers.

The incident could prompt governments worldwide to review and revise their travel policies. Visa regulations, entry requirements, and bilateral agreements could be scrutinized, leading to international travel changes.

Countries might also increase cooperation on security matters, sharing intelligence and collaborating on measures to prevent similar incidents. This heightened level of collaboration could enhance overall travel security and lead to more bureaucratic hurdles for travelers.

High-profile individuals, including political figures, celebrities, and business leaders, might face increased security concerns and restrictions on their travel. This could affect international conferences, summits, and other events that rely on the presence of such figures.

Organizers of these events might need to implement more robust security measures, potentially increasing costs and logistical complexities. The absence of critical participants could also impact the success and outcomes of international gatherings.

In the long term, the attempted assassination of any political candidate could lead to a reevaluation of global travel security standards. New technologies and methods for ensuring traveler safety might be developed and implemented, potentially reshaping the landscape of international travel.

Governments and international organizations might also work towards creating more comprehensive frameworks for addressing and preventing political violence, which could contribute to a more stable and secure travel environment.

The attempted assassination of a former U.S. president like Donald Trump or any political candidate would undoubtedly have a profound impact on world travel. The immediate tightening of security measures, potential geopolitical tensions, economic repercussions, public perception changes, and travel policy revisions would all contribute to a more complex and challenging travel landscape.

While the primary goal of these measures would be to enhance safety and prevent future incidents, they would also require travelers, governments, and businesses to adapt to a new reality. In navigating this environment, the global community must balance security concerns with maintaining the openness and connectivity essential to international travel and cooperation.”

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 14, 2014:

Amazon Prime Day sales for the travelers…

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We embarked on a whale-watching catamaran trip while in Madeira in 2014. Unfortunately, we didn’t see much during that outing, but we saw many whales in Hawaii in 2014/2015.

While researching a topic for today, which I do when nothing specific pops into my mind, I stumbled across the following article, which could mean more to our readers than my mindless drivel during this quiet time. Amazon Prime Day is coming soon, on July 16 and 17. Today, I’m posting this money-saving article (see below) for our readers who may be Amazon Prime members or those considering joining Amazon Prime at some point.

We have been Amazon Prime members for many years for several specific reasons:

  1. Amazon offers free shipping on most purchases, many of which include same-day or next-day delivery. This is particularly interesting for us in the US since I don’t care about shopping in stores such as Target, pharmacies, and Walmart. Amazon’s prices are competitive, and searching for the best deals is easy.
  2. Amazon Prime’s streaming service, Prime Video, has a plethora of excellent documentaries, series, and movies. Most are free, although some may be premium releases for an additional fee. (We generally don’t pay for new films and series on Amazon Prime and will wait until they are available to stream at no added cost). With the higher costs for many streaming services, Prime Video is an excellent source of entertainment.
  3. Free Music on Prime Music for the first five months. We listen to free music on YouTube when the five months are over.
  4. Use the Amazon Kindle App to read books. Millions of books are offered at huge discounts for reading online, and many are free of charge.

As described on Amazon’s site, there are many more reasons to use Amazon Prime, which you can find here.

Amazon Prime is currently $139 a year, or a little over $11.50 monthly. For us, it pays for itself in its first few months by avoiding shipping fees alone. Even when we’re outside the US and plan to order a shipment of supplies, we have everything sent to our mailing service in Nevada (no shipping fees) and then have our mailing service ship everything to us in one package, costs varying based on speed of delivery and location.

In the past few years, after spending considerable time in the US, we haven’t had to have the items we purchase sent to our mailing service; instead, they are shipped directly to our hotel, wherever we may be staying, without shipping fees. Amazon texts us that the package has been delivered and that we can pick it up at the reception desk immediately.

As mentioned above, you can click on the Amazon black box on the right side of our homepage along with our other advertisers. We earn a small commission for your purchases, but you don’t pay more, which helps offset some of our site’s maintenance costs. You do not need to be a member to buy products on Amazon, and prices and services are the same when using our site or going directly to Amazon. Please click the link here. 

From this site: “Is Amazon travel’s newest metasearch site?

Amazon Prime Day is fast approaching, which historically has meant little in terms of news for the travel industry. But this year, Amazon has a dedicated page to “Prime Day Travel Deals” with big-name brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Southwest Airlines, and Tripadvisor experiences brand Viator. Car rental companies Turo, Sixt, and Avis are also participating.

The opportunity to sell with an online retail giant is appealing, according to the travel brands included in the July 16 and 17 shopping event.

“Consumers are interested in unique experiences, and this Prime Day offering puts cruise vacations in front of a targeted audience that we want to reach,” said Amy Martin Ziegenfuss, chief marketing officer of Carnival Cruise Line.

She continued: “Amazon has been a great partner as we’ve worked together on other activations, so making our cruises available for Prime Day builds on our partnership and adds value for customers of both brands.”

Similarly, Viator recently partnered with Amazon Alexa and expressed excitement about selling through Amazon.

“As the first travel experiences marketplace to offer an Amazon Prime Day deal in the [United States], we’re excited to bring our more than 300,000 activities, tours, and experiences directly to the millions of travelers who shop on Amazon every day,” said Laurel Greatrix, vice president of brand and communications for Viator.

Greatrix said the partnership is one of “thousands” of ways Viator is seeking to reach travelers where they are already shopping as it continues to expand distribution for its operators.

Amazon said it offers discounted flights, experiences, and rides with Amazon Travel. Prime members are eligible to receive deals such as 30% off base fares with Southwest Airlines or 20% off experiences with Viator, for example.

It’s unclear whether Amazon will continue offering travel products after Prime Day closes.

While this marks the first time Amazon has offered a full page of travel deals, the company provided a Prime Day deal with Priceline last year. While Amazon did not immediately reply to a request for comment, there has long been chatter about its potential to enter the online travel marketplace. And in 2021, the company also announced it partnered with MakeMyTrip to offer travel in India.”

We hope this information is helpful and those of you considering travel can take advantage of some of these special travel prices.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 13, 2014:

The geese seemed to enjoy hanging out by this unusual palm tree in Madeira. For more photos, please click here.

Tom’s railroad guys get together…Worldwide traveler stats and lifestyle for those living without a home…

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From left to right: Dale, Tom, and Jon.
Today’s photos are from a get-together of retired guys who worked with Tom at BNSF during his 42½-year tenure. Thus, the images are not related to today’s post. 

The life of a world traveler, especially one living without a permanent home, is a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and, often, unpredictability. These individuals, usually called digital nomads, perpetual travelers, or global wanderers, embrace a lifestyle that allows them to explore the world while remotely maintaining their work or personal projects. This essay delves into the statistics surrounding world travelers who live without a home, exploring their demographics, motivations, challenges, and the impact of this lifestyle on their well-being and the global economy.

The number of digital nomads and perpetual travelers has steadily increased over the past decade. According to a 2020 report by MBO Partners, there were approximately 10.9 million digital nomads in the United States alone, reflecting a significant rise from previous years. Globally, the figure is estimated to be much higher, with millions more embracing this lifestyle in Europe, Asia, and other regions. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including technological advancements, increased remote work opportunities, and a growing desire for a more flexible and fulfilling lifestyle.

Digital nomads tend to be younger, with the majority falling within the 25-44 age range. A survey conducted by FlexJobs in 2021 found that 42% of digital nomads were millennials (ages 25-40), while 19% were Generation X (ages 41-56). However, this lifestyle is not limited to younger generations; there is a notable presence of older travelers, including retirees, who also take advantage of the freedom and opportunities of a mobile lifestyle.

The guys got together for a group photo as Tom drove up to the restaurant.

The motivations behind choosing a nomadic lifestyle vary widely among individuals. For many, the primary driver is the desire for freedom and adventure. The ability to explore new cultures, learn new languages, and experience diverse environments is a significant allure. Additionally, the flexibility to work from anywhere allows individuals to craft a lifestyle that prioritizes personal well-being and work-life balance.

Economic factors also play a crucial role. The cost of living can be significantly lower in certain parts of the world compared to major urban centers in developed countries. For instance, living in Southeast Asia, Latin America, or Eastern Europe can provide a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost. This financial advantage enables travelers to save money, invest in their passions, or extend their travels indefinitely. For us, living in the bush in South Africa for extended periods has been so affordable that it has enabled us to spend more in other, more costly countries.

Despite the many benefits, living without a permanent home presents unique challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is maintaining a stable income. While remote work opportunities have increased, not all digital nomads have steady employment or freelance work, leading to financial instability. According to the same FlexJobs survey, 34% of digital nomads cited finding remote work opportunities as a primary challenge. Fortunately, we don’t require additional employment to support our world travels.

Another significant issue is the lack of a stable support network. Moving from one place to another can make building and maintaining meaningful relationships challenging. This transient lifestyle can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can impact mental health. Again, we have been fortunate to make friends worldwide, and with our close relationship, we never feel loneliness becomes an issue.

Most had the buffet, but Tom waited to eat homemade pizza when he returned to the hotel.

Additionally, navigating different healthcare systems in various countries can be complex and expensive, adding another layer of stress. We’ve covered this topic in many posts. The most imperative things are a quality travel insurance plan and easy access to quality medical care, especially for those with medical conditions that may need intervention.

Logistics can also be challenging. Visas and legal regulations for long-term stays vary significantly between countries, requiring travelers to manage and plan their movements continuously. Access to reliable internet is another critical factor, as it directly impacts the ability to work remotely. While many countries offer good connectivity, there are still areas where internet access is unreliable or expensive.

The impact of a nomadic lifestyle on well-being is multifaceted. On one hand, the freedom to explore new places and cultures can lead to greater life satisfaction and personal growth. Many digital nomads report higher levels of happiness and fulfillment than their previous lifestyles. The ability to escape the confines of a traditional office and live in inspiring environments can boost creativity and productivity.

On the other hand, the lack of stability and the challenges associated with constant travel can negatively impact mental and physical health. The stress of financial uncertainty, difficulty forming lasting relationships, and the logistical challenges of travel can lead to burnout and exhaustion. Digital nomads must find a balance and establish routines supporting their well-being.

Economically, digital nomads contribute to the global economy by spending money in various countries, supporting local businesses, and often investing in local real estate. Some countries, recognizing the economic benefits, have started offering special visas and incentives to attract digital nomads, not necessarily to retired travelers.

World travelers living without a home represent a growing and dynamic demographic reshaping traditional notions of work and lifestyle. While the freedom and adventure associated with this lifestyle are appealing, it also comes with challenges. Understanding the statistics and trends surrounding digital nomads helps to illuminate the motivations and hurdles they face, as well as their impact on the global economy and their well-being. As the world continues to evolve, the lifestyle of nomads is likely to become increasingly mainstream, offering valuable insights into the future of work and travel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 12, 2014:

Tom was getting a haircut in Ribeira Brava, Madeira, Portugal. For more photos, please click here.

The expat or the world traveler route?…Which is better for you and why?…

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The red dot on this map indicates where the island of Madeira is located.

“There is a difference between being an expat and traveling slowly to see the world. Each path offers unique experiences and challenges. An expat’s life revolves around settling in one place and becoming part of the local community. On the other hand, slow travel is about taking time to explore each destination deeply.”

In an increasingly interconnected world, the concepts of “expat” and “world traveler” have become more prevalent, reflecting different ways people choose to live and explore. While both groups share a love for experiencing new cultures and environments, their lifestyles, motivations, and experiences differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help clarify the nuances of these two distinct paths.

Definitions and Basic Differences

Expat is short for expatriate, a term used to describe individuals who live outside their native country for an extended period, often for work or personal reasons. Expats typically settle in one country for months or years, integrating into the local community to varying degrees. Their stay is usually characterized by a semi-permanent or permanent relocation, influenced by employment, family, or retirement plans.

On the other hand, a world traveler moves from one place to another, often for shorter durations, driven by a desire to explore, experience, and enjoy diverse cultures and environments. World travelers may stay in one location for days, weeks, or months before moving on to the next destination. Their journey is often continuous, with no fixed home base, emphasizing exploration over settlement.

Motivation and Purpose

Expats often relocate due to job assignments, career advancement opportunities, or company transfers. They might also move for personal reasons, such as joining a spouse or family member, seeking better living conditions, or pursuing retirement in a more favorable environment. Their primary motivation is usually practical and long-term, focusing on stability and integration into the new country.

In contrast, world travelers are driven by curiosity, adventure, and a passion for discovering new places. Their motivation is more about experiencing diversity, learning about different cultures, and seeking personal growth through travel. The purpose of their journey is exploration and enjoyment rather than settling down or establishing roots.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine

Expats often lead lives similar to those they had in their home countries, though adapted to their new environment. They might rent or buy homes, enroll their children in local or international schools, and establish work, social activities, and community involvement routines. Over time, they may develop a deep understanding of and connection to their host country’s culture, language, and traditions.

For world travelers, the lifestyle is more transient and flexible. Depending on their preferences and budget, they might stay in hotels, hostels, short-term rentals, or even camp out. Their daily routine is less structured, often dictated by travel plans, sightseeing, and spontaneous adventures. They are constantly on the move, with no fixed abode, leading to a more fluid and unpredictable way of life.

Integration and Interaction with Local Culture

Expats have the opportunity to immerse themselves deeply in the local culture. Over time, they may learn the language, understand societal norms, and build lasting relationships with locals. They often become part of the community, participating in local events and contributing to their host country’s social and economic fabric.

While they may make meaningful connections and gain cultural insights during their short stays, world travelers generally do not have the same depth of integration. Their interactions with local cultures are more superficial and fleeting, often limited to tourist attractions, short-term acquaintances, and surface-level experiences. However, their exposure to various cultures can lead to a broad, albeit less deep, understanding of the world.

Financial Considerations

Expats often have stable income sources through employment, savings, or pensions, which support their long-term stay in a foreign country. Their financial planning includes considerations for housing, healthcare, education, and other long-term needs. The financial stability provided by employment or other steady income allows them to establish a more permanent lifestyle abroad.

World travelers may have more varied and uncertain income sources. Some work remotely, freelance, or take up short-term jobs to fund their travels, while others rely on savings or travel on a budget. Their financial strategy often focuses on cost-effective travel, accommodation, and daily expenses, allowing them to sustain their nomadic lifestyle.

Emotional and Social Impacts

Expats can experience a range of emotional and social challenges, including homesickness, culture shock, and the difficulty of integrating into a new society. However, the potential for building a new support network, forming deep friendships, and feeling a sense of belonging can be highly rewarding.

For world travelers, the constant movement can lead to feelings of isolation or disconnection, as they rarely stay in one place long enough to build strong relationships. The excitement of new experiences and the freedom of a nomadic lifestyle can be exhilarating, but the lack of a stable support network can also be emotionally taxing.

Conclusion

While both expats and world travelers share a love for exploring new places and cultures, their lifestyles, motivations, and experiences are markedly different. Expats seek stability, integration, and long-term living arrangements in foreign countries, often driven by career or personal reasons. On the other hand, world travelers prioritize exploration, adventure, and the thrill of constant movement, driven by curiosity and a desire to experience as much of the world as possible. Understanding these differences can help in appreciating the unique journeys of both groups, each enriching the global tapestry in their own distinct way.

As our long-term readers are well aware, from the beginning of our travels, we have chosen the world traveler lifestyle rather than becoming expats who choose to live in one location. Will this change in the future? It could depending upon the outcome of current medical concerns, which will be addressed over the next several months. We will keep you updated.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 8, 2014:

Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas is a larger capacity ship with cabins for 3835 passengers than yesterday’s posted Celebrity Solstice at 2850. We prefer smaller ships, but it’s not always possible to find both the preferred size, itinerary, and dates. The ship’s size is near the bottom of our criteria list. For more photos, please click here.

Traveling, but love to listen to music without paying?…

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There are endless rows of terraced gardens on the island of Madeira.

Over the past week or so, we’ve been posting some products and services we’ve been using that have added to the enjoyment of our worldwide travels over the past 12 years. An integral part of that enjoyment has been listening to music, especially at the end of the day when we’re sitting outdoors on a veranda or patio.

We’d often partake in a cocktail (for Tom) and a light wine (for me), making the simple activity seem like a night in the town. Dinner will have been prepped and ready for cooking to add to the pleasant evening as it progressed and the sun disappeared on the horizon.

While we are in the US right now, without a veranda or patio and in a public location where we can’t make noise, we’ve had to forgo this pleasant pastime. Once we can be on the move again, we’ll undoubtedly begin again, hopefully next year in South Africa.

Over the past several years, we have listened to music on our phones using a Bluetooth speaker with such clarity and sound quality that it’s been astounding. Recently, we had to replace a JBL speaker that stopped working (they wear out after intended use), but we found another for only $39.99 on Amazon at this link. Following is a photo of our new speaker:

Portable Speaker, Wireless Bluetooth Speaker, IPX7 Waterproof, 25W Loud Stereo Sound, Bassboom Technology, TWS Pairing, Built-in Mic, 16H Playtime with Lights for Home Outdoor – Black

When we made the above purchase, we wondered if it would be as high quality as the JBL speaker we had, based on the price. But the quality was equally good; we couldn’t imagine it would have been better. Since Tom is hard of hearing (his hearing aid appointment is coming up on August 1), having a speaker has been necessary for listening to music, podcasts, and streaming shows using our laptop as the broadcasting device.

When we’re streaming to the TV monitor, it’s easy to increase the sound using the remote, which is suitable for his hearing ability. But if we’re streaming a show on my laptop at the table during dinner, the laptop’s sound doesn’t get high enough or clear enough to use it exclusively.

Right now, during this waiting period, we are listening to or watching something for most days and nights: streaming podcasts during the day and streaming services in the evening. Of course, when we’re feeling better, we are out several evenings each week, such as this upcoming Friday and Saturday nights when we’ll be out with family and friends.

Undoubtedly, it helps our state of mind to stay distracted with interesting morsels in podcasts, movies, and series. In between listening, I head outdoors to walk, and so far this morning, I walked for 15 minutes in one session, which was the first since my legs hadn’t been working so well.

To avoid “paying for music,” we often use YouTube, not YouTube Music, which requires a membership. Type in the name of a favorite song, and you can play it for free. Eventually, your smartphone will remember the songs you picked, and your list of favorites will be readily available—there is no need to pay. In the worst case, if your list doesn’t build automatically, you can type in your favorites and hit “save.”

Also, if you are an Amazon Prime member, as we are, we have access to 100 million songs ad-free, the largest catalog of ad-free podcasts, and thousands of playlists and stations included with Prime at no additional costs.

Of course, there are many other music streaming services, some free and some with monthly or annual fees. By searching online you can find many different options you may prefer.

If any of this is unclear to you, please don’t hesitate to ask, and we’ll post the answers to our questions here.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, June 27, 2014:

These unusual flowers hung from a short tree. For more photos, please click here.