In October I published a mini episode on my thought processes on the pros and cons of extended travel abroad. Many of you left comments or emailed me your thoughts, and I’m so thankful for your input. You’ve all given me plenty to consider. One of the most insightful emails came from Jeff of awaytofi.com, a previous guest on this podcast (Episode 44). Jeff has been living abroad for over fifteen months with his wife, Rose, and as such is well-versed in discussing the impacts of extended travel, particularly on our social lives. This week’s episode is an in-depth exploration of extended travel, especially as it relates to our human need for a sense of place and community. Travel takes us away from our tribe, so how do we create new ones? Do we even need to? You can probably expect more content like this with upcoming guests and articles.
Topics Discussed with Jeff
- Establishing a new home base in Leonidio, Greece
- Why Jeff and his wife intended to travel for 2-3 months but have been abroad for over 15 months
- A deep dive into creating and maintaining social capital when traveling (hierarchy of social interactions, the ebb and flow of social life, and “deal friends” as a way of integrating with locals)
- Why full-time climbing or traveling loses its luster
- The downside of living in seasonal locations
- Can a desire to see the world ever be satisfied? What is enough?
- Jeff pushes back on me: Why do I want to travel?
- The importance of seasonality in life
- The importance of open-ended travel timeframes
- Other logistical hurdles (property, cars, jobs, important documents, mail, taxes)
- The error in seeing travel as vacation and why you should work when you travel
- Seeing more versus staying put
- Bonus “offline” discussion after the credits
- So much more!
Get in Touch with Jeff
Previous Episodes/Articles Mentioned
EP 74: Mini Episode: Is the Best Life Lived at Home?
EP 73: The Problem with Bucket Lists and How to Be Happy with Less
EP 44: Earning to Buy Time with Meghan and Jeff (A Way to FI)
EP 64: Jeff and Priti Wright: You Might Need a Sabbatical
Jeff’s Recommended Travel Resources
How To Get a Backup Citizenship or Residency (Expat Money Show)
Traveling with Kristen (YouTube Channel)
Wise Money Transfer (**Jeff’s Affiliate Link)
Books
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