5 years as frugal snowbird: author living abroad on $500/month

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  • Опубликовано: 21 авг 2024
  • Self-described minimalist Peter Lawrence has always valued his time over money. He lived simply for decades and was able to retire at 44. After several years living in his paid-off condo in Santa Clara (California), he decided to shed his home and the accompanying insurance and HOA (homeowners association) fees for life as a global nomad. “Some people call it geographical arbitrage,” explains Lawrence. “In short, it is an attempt to achieve a similar quality of life at a fraction of the cost.”
    Wanting to keep his living costs to what he was paying on HOA fees, he chooses locations where he can pay $300/month or less for accommodation. Valuing warm weather and fresh produce, he seeks out places with “eternal spring”, such as El Valle de Antón, Panama; Sapa, Vietnam; Ajijic, Mexico; and Vilcabamba, Ecuador.
    “One could consider my model as either part of the tiny house movement or an alternative to it. By my model, I mean a model that owns virtually nothing.” In this minimalism, Lawrence finds the freedom to read, write, think, and the Italian concept of “il dolce far niente” or “the sweetness of doing nothing”.
    Peter’s book “For The Thinking Sapiens: Short Takes On Life” amzn.to/2O0Z4vT
    Part 1: Non-possession: seeking intense simplicity and the good life
    • Non-possession: seekin...
    On *faircompanies faircompanies....

Комментарии • 669

  • @janicepynn1517
    @janicepynn1517 3 года назад +353

    I was fortunate enough to get to know Peter a bit while my husband and I stayed in Ajijic last winter. We met several people who were living very simplified lifestyles and it made us envious of them in a way. We came home and started selling lots of our stuff and started to move towards a simpler life. Thanks for making these videos Kirsten.

  • @MrPhotodoc
    @MrPhotodoc 3 года назад +294

    Seems like a intelligent stable man who decided to actually LIVE instead of just exist. Bravo!

    • @Kitiwake
      @Kitiwake 2 года назад

      11 cities in 7 countries.
      Yeah... Stable alright.

  • @johnstokdijk
    @johnstokdijk 3 года назад +121

    I live in Ajijic, Mexico and Peter Lawrence and I are friends, an amazing man.

    • @shoshi06
      @shoshi06 3 года назад +1

      i'M in Mexico too, Is he South African by any chance? Would love to visit Ajijic

    • @NchlsPtrck
      @NchlsPtrck 3 года назад

      I'd love to connect with him - what's the best way to get in touch?

    • @itsmyparty4637
      @itsmyparty4637 3 года назад

      @@shoshi06 he was born in Singapore. You can find it on google

    • @shoshi06
      @shoshi06 3 года назад

      @@itsmyparty4637 thx

    • @itsmyparty4637
      @itsmyparty4637 3 года назад

      @@shoshi06 :) he has not a trace of a South African accent btw. :) where do South African passport holders go to escape this failed state of South Africa - where they can work on line and live a frugal and peaceful life?

  • @OneEyeGoating
    @OneEyeGoating 3 года назад +116

    I've been living out of a backpack for almost a year now. I aim for $500 per month for living expenses, food, and rent included. I've been doing this in the Balkans, although not considered an eternal Spring climate, it's still mild. This has been the best decision ever, and the feeling of freedom is second to none. Peter has it right in regards to minimalism!

    • @digitalsublime
      @digitalsublime 3 года назад +10

      and how you make money? retirement? online work? rent?

    • @OneEyeGoating
      @OneEyeGoating 3 года назад +7

      @@digitalsublime Dividends

    • @jozosaravanja1626
      @jozosaravanja1626 3 года назад +6

      I'm from Balkans. Hope you enjoy our countries. 😀

    • @OneEyeGoating
      @OneEyeGoating 3 года назад +4

      @@jozosaravanja1626 This is an amazing area, it's a true hidden gem ;)

    • @jozosaravanja1626
      @jozosaravanja1626 3 года назад +4

      @@OneEyeGoating agree. So many places to visit in such small countries. And it's kinda cheap as well

  • @sashastarshanti3599
    @sashastarshanti3599 3 года назад +201

    My first thought of Peter was that he is like a traveling monk. After watching the whole video, I think he is still like a monk, but also an astronaut of a free and unattached life. Yet he is living with great zest for life, nature, beauty, music, people, art, and mind.

    • @EskimoInAlaska
      @EskimoInAlaska 3 года назад +3

      I agree 💖

    • @EskimoInAlaska
      @EskimoInAlaska 3 года назад +7

      Soooo much love and thought put into himself

    • @frednorman1
      @frednorman1 2 года назад

      Seems like a lonely life

    • @KA2HRO
      @KA2HRO Год назад

      I wish Peter would move back to his home in the States. He had a comfortable rug and a movie projector. Why leave that for Mexico?

  • @spewter
    @spewter 3 года назад +186

    I think that for most of us it is our relationships which keep us from living ways like this. I still find it inspiring

    • @Wakeupandsniffthecoffee
      @Wakeupandsniffthecoffee 3 года назад +9

      That was my thought too. I'm single, but it would take a very special couple to be able to be able to live like this.
      Also if you are close to family and friends, doing this for part of the year and not being away all the time maybe could work.
      Because of the pandemic, I've have had to be separated from traveling to visit family and friends. I haven't even been able to meet one new grandson yet.
      Traveling like this with the disruptions in the world and especially the pandemic, make it scary to think you might get stuck in a country and place that you may not want to be.

    • @chezmoi42
      @chezmoi42 3 года назад +6

      @@Wakeupandsniffthecoffee If you do your research on the destinations, one should be all right wherever you go, unless of course it is a sudden thing like being caught in an airport while making a connection to somewhere else. But it sounds like Peter would make the best of even a situation like that.

    • @jasonbeedon9867
      @jasonbeedon9867 3 года назад +9

      That should not be downplayed. Relationships and belonging are huge. Maybe the most valuable thing!

    • @jamiejones8508
      @jamiejones8508 3 года назад +12

      Exactly that. Like many, I now have experience of being away from my loved ones & however nice the location, it sucks.
      This chap is obviously very interesting & unusual, but I don’t think it would work for most people for whom long term relationships are important.

    • @dorothysay8327
      @dorothysay8327 3 года назад +5

      Our relationships support us, mentally and spiritually. Other human beings are our lifeline. This is why this lifestyle, while interesting? Is not for me. Community and family and lifelong friends. That’s the ticket to a rich life.

  • @mmwang5
    @mmwang5 3 года назад +115

    I’m so impressed with him that I just bought both of his books: “The Happy Minimalist” and “For the Thinking Sapiens”.

    • @lapislazarus8899
      @lapislazarus8899 3 года назад +2

      Oh yeah, I remember seeing those when I was working at B&N. When I was in my early 20s I wanted to do field research, or live kinda like he does. But he blends in across the world. I didn't have the start-up funds either. I have a few friends who've moved across the world to teach ESL.

  • @MAM-cy3yy
    @MAM-cy3yy 3 года назад +7

    In Panama, my wife's family used old car tires to repair shoe soles. They could have bought new shoes but never considered doing so. Living frugal is a state of mind. I retired at 53 after working 80 hours a week for many years. Working those hours I now realize the most important thing I lost was quality time with my loved ones which can not be made up. No regrets, making up for the lost time now, but I will never go back to corporate America. Peace and Love to all.

  • @perpetualmoto
    @perpetualmoto 3 года назад +106

    Ive also lived in a few of those same places. I've motorcycled to every state in Mexico and I can say without hesitation, Mexico is a hidden gem. San Pedro, Atitlan was very special as well with a shorter visa period. Living in the Cambodia jungle was one of my favorites by far. Living in these far off places allows one to enjoy a much simpler life.

    • @dhh488
      @dhh488 3 года назад +3

      I admire your courage to live as you have. I am getting serious about my spiritual practice but owning a home and working for a living are obstacles and would like to live a more care free existence.

    • @ssubramanian605
      @ssubramanian605 3 года назад

      Wow sounds awesome. Always wonder how safe is Mexico and Columbia to travel solo.

    • @rogermichaelwillis6425
      @rogermichaelwillis6425 3 года назад +3

      I've lived in Cambodia and Mexico as well. I'm in Finland now, but my next stop will be either Ecuador or Colombia.

    • @risasb
      @risasb 2 года назад +1

      I have a friend who explored the entire hemisphere for the right place to live and is now happily settled in Jalisco, near the lake.

    • @perpetualmoto
      @perpetualmoto 2 года назад

      @@risasb that person wouldn't be named Shannon would they?

  • @damien_t
    @damien_t 3 года назад +53

    Thank you so much for this long awaited update on Peter, Kirsten! It’s wonderful to see he’s living well and still walks the talk. My minimalist idol who’s changed how I view many things in life. 🙏

    • @ssubramanian605
      @ssubramanian605 3 года назад

      @@chris.dt580 can you please let me know what that video is called? I would love to watch it. I ended up in this video accidentally and very happy i did. Thanks in advance

  • @andredubois4601
    @andredubois4601 3 года назад +119

    really makes you think about what you truly need to live a comfortable life. It´s actually not that much. For most people a lifestyle like this probably wouldn't work, but i think everyone can learn something from him. Just be mindful of your consumption and focus on the things that bring real value and quality into your life.

    • @smileytow1925
      @smileytow1925 3 года назад +3

      Well said!

    • @magnusbonging6138
      @magnusbonging6138 3 года назад

      Kristus Ronaldo Messias Erlöser

    • @runvnc208
      @runvnc208 3 года назад +2

      Its not that much when you take into account the extreme income inequality between countries, have a very good job and then sell a condo in the US. But to get $700 per month or whatever in those countries with low cost-of-living, it is not necessarily easy because most jobs pay much less compared to the rich countries.

  • @michaellukaniuk5074
    @michaellukaniuk5074 3 года назад +17

    I have been living in the world Sir Peter describes for 11 years now in SE Asia. Many do. Yet few do it with the grace and integrity this gentleman does. I have so much to learn. Thank you Kristen for bringing this man to us. He embodies what so many try to achieve in the tiny house movement. Peter predicted the pandemic and warns us about climate change. We would be remiss not to heed his words.

    • @starsparkle999
      @starsparkle999 2 года назад

      How did you find out that Peter predicted the pandemic, I didn't see that in the video and you appear to have found out about him through this video, did I miss something, just wondering?

    • @michaellukaniuk5074
      @michaellukaniuk5074 2 года назад

      @@starsparkle999 check 15:40. He mentions Pandemics then.

  • @HLR4th
    @HLR4th 3 года назад +47

    A remarkable story for being so simple. Repairing crocs would never have occured to me, which is exactly the problem. Thank you for the insight.

    • @mimi1o8
      @mimi1o8 3 года назад +4

      In the US we learn to shop never repair 😕

    • @saltwatertaffy7020
      @saltwatertaffy7020 3 года назад

      @@mimi1o8 , it used to not be that way; there were shoe repair shops that would repair leather goods. Now it's exactly like you just said.

  • @ForeverEclectic
    @ForeverEclectic 3 года назад +37

    Watching the art of repairing shoes was one of my favorite parts. I remember as a child, my mother often took our shoes to be repaired. Having more is not always better. This was a beautiful video.....I remember him:)

    • @sashachip
      @sashachip 3 года назад +1

      Repairing a good quality pair of shoes makes sense. He's paying to repair an old pair of rubber Crocs. It's a bit much.

  • @keithusace4352
    @keithusace4352 3 года назад +39

    Sir I see you as a richer man than any billionaire. Many men would love to have what you have, count me as one. And you are a man one with your God. Many safe travels be with you!

    • @marilynwargo6288
      @marilynwargo6288 3 года назад +3

      Many women, too. Not all women want to be attached to children and no partner. This is what I see around me all my life. Being nomadic is natural to many people.

    • @Ken-nv2hl
      @Ken-nv2hl 3 года назад

      I'm sure Billionaires have tried this life. But enjoy working more than a slow lifestyle.

    • @sararichardson737
      @sararichardson737 3 года назад

      Well said. I’d like to second that regard.

  • @tixximmi1
    @tixximmi1 3 года назад +42

    This hit home. Although my wife and I have no mortgage payment, with HOA, Taxes, and Insurance we still need to pay about $700 a month. I'm jealous of Peter. Our oldest child has lived in Malaysia, Viet Nam and other places so we encourage her to step it up a notch. Thanks for sharing Peter's experience.

    • @electricbeing993
      @electricbeing993 3 года назад +2

      Very great to hear that u encouraged your daughter to step it up and keep going. Generational growth is beautiful and in turn she will care for you when u are unable to do for self and will be happy to do so because of the love of her parents to experience a life. Blessings to u and ya fam.

    • @tixximmi1
      @tixximmi1 3 года назад +7

      @@electricbeing993 Well I'm 67 now. Would rather her take care of herself and others first. I've had a great life. . . . so far. :) But the great adventure continues.

    • @samoday2992
      @samoday2992 3 года назад +3

      @@tixximmi1 get your backside out there and start to live yourself . You only get one shot at this life 😃

    • @tixximmi1
      @tixximmi1 3 года назад +1

      @@samoday2992 I've been to over 45 countries. Been there, Done that. None of those other countries were with the military. And I lived in 7 states. I've had a great shot at this life. Too bad yours isn't as exciting.

    • @samoday2992
      @samoday2992 3 года назад +3

      @@tixximmi1 your first post sounded like you was living life through your daughter , I was being positive to your negative . I have lived in Thailand Vietnam Malaysia Holland the the Uk Australia and New Zealand the west coast of America (and visited many many other countries ) and now I’m playing the game of life , you know mortgages and kids 😉5 more years when my son heads off to college and my mortgage is paid off I’m heading back out to the world .

  • @JavierBonillaC
    @JavierBonillaC 3 года назад +16

    “For when we come to fully accept that the only existence is a temporal one, the shock of the realization can help give us the strength to stop living in conformity of the masses and instead take control of our lives and live by standards and values of our own choosing”

  • @nanchesca3950
    @nanchesca3950 3 года назад +37

    Inspiring, he has such a calm voice and the editing, scenery and music just created such a chill vibe

  • @NeuroPulse
    @NeuroPulse 3 года назад +56

    The sweetness of doing nothing. I love it.

  • @ardevenuta37
    @ardevenuta37 3 года назад +14

    How can anyone not absolutely, worship this videograher? ❤❤❤

  • @waynebrice8536
    @waynebrice8536 3 года назад +6

    We met Peter a few years ago when he was still in the U.S., & he had minimalism mastered. His travels show even more mastery. We enjoy hearing about his travel updates. It's nice to be able to see the world with less overhead. And seeing his one pair of shoes that can be kept in service by repair rather than buying new ones is a nice message that we don't always need to buy more stuff.

  • @varietasVeritas
    @varietasVeritas 3 года назад +64

    He probably made enough money by selling his condo to live like that for a thousand years.

    • @runvnc208
      @runvnc208 3 года назад +9

      Well if the condo was $1 million and the cost of living is $700 per month (he got to $500 without including a single thing besides food and lodging) then that is about 120 years.

    • @varietasVeritas
      @varietasVeritas 3 года назад +16

      Invest 500k and live on 4% forever.

    • @blackblog
      @blackblog 3 года назад +7

      @@varietasVeritas you’ll get a phone call one day when you’re 60, and be working as a janitor until you die if you don’t know how to manage actively

  • @Britbabe53
    @Britbabe53 3 года назад +10

    Bravo! This man lives life in a pure sustainable way according to his own terms and not dictated to by the suits.

  • @Londonfogey
    @Londonfogey 3 года назад +14

    'Places of eternal spring' - nice phrase. I've lived like this for a while myself; the main downside for me was that the transient nature of the life made it difficult to form lasting relationships or a sense of connection with a place and community.

  • @lumberpilot
    @lumberpilot 3 года назад +136

    When you travel that light, the thieves generally look the other way.

    • @youmakeitreal
      @youmakeitreal 3 года назад +13

      If you have "nothing" there is noting to steal :o)

    • @Sagittarius-A-Star
      @Sagittarius-A-Star 3 года назад +1

      Ha! You should have been in Rome with us 38 years (F!) ago.
      One of the worst experiences of my life.

    • @mariamargaritagarcia8049
      @mariamargaritagarcia8049 3 года назад

      @@jttj742 Beautiful story...

    • @bobjob3632
      @bobjob3632 3 года назад

      You could still get kidnapped though...

  • @shakifur
    @shakifur 3 года назад +42

    His one pair of footwear are Crocs... He is still a Singaporean at his core!

    • @SunLightFawn
      @SunLightFawn 3 года назад +2

      It's amazing how long Crocs hold up!
      I've had mine for about 10 years now, and they are
      just a bit stained with dirt by trekking in all sorts of weather, etc.!

  • @bythealphabet
    @bythealphabet 3 года назад +35

    Yes, this is a high-quality life.
    I remember the first video about this guy 4 or 5 years ago.
    I love his style of thinking. It is great to live this way if you are on your own.
    For me would be difficult.
    We are a family of 6, living in a minimalist way.
    Still, I like his Ideas.
    so peacefull

    • @gabrielholland6352
      @gabrielholland6352 3 года назад +1

      If you still remember where to find it, could you please link the previous video? I'm interested in learning more.

    • @bythealphabet
      @bythealphabet 3 года назад

      @@gabrielholland6352 you can find it in the description of this video under Part 1
      ruclips.net/video/Hw4E8nXcrTk/видео.html

    • @bythealphabet
      @bythealphabet 3 года назад +1

      lol, now I see the video was made in 2012. Time flies.

  • @hummersd
    @hummersd 3 года назад +9

    Dang, Google really knows my info and perfectly served up this video. 1. I'm 44 (but not near retirement). 2. I live in San Jose, probably just a few miles from where Peter lived in Santa Clara. 3. Over the last year it's really been reinforced what you truly need to live -- extra spending has completely stopped outside of food. 4. I've been contemplating for a while now how I'm going to live the rest of my life -- working a regular job will never amount to a meaningful retirement, and by that point I won't be able to enjoy traveling. Thanks for creating this video!

  • @7Jennifer
    @7Jennifer 3 года назад +45

    I will never live in an HOA controlled living space again. Absolute waste of money. I am working on a plan of having an off grid TH in about 3 years or so. Hopefully sooner. Also working on finding a job where I can work from home that I don't completely hate. Step by step I hope to get to a place where I'm more in control and comfortable vs how it is now.

    • @ayela562
      @ayela562 3 года назад +18

      Jennifer I’m 47 and sitting in my mortgaged home that I don’t love but work every day to pay for. I have the same conversation with myself every weekend, wondering what we could do to break out of the trap we are in, live simply, still support ourselves, and see the world. The answers are there somewhere, we just haven’t found them quite yet. Good luck with your journey, you will never regret the freedom it brings you. 🙂

    • @7Jennifer
      @7Jennifer 3 года назад +15

      @@ayela562 Thank you for your well wishes! I'm 50 and lost my job due to Covid and am still picking up the pieces with that and coming up with a game plan to move forward in order to realize this dream. I have already downsized to a 355SF studio and I love it, but I don't love the rent. Here's to both of us finding happiness in our journey and living the life we wish for! 😊

    • @jacobcrd697
      @jacobcrd697 3 года назад +4

      @@7Jennifer This is the most beautiful interaction I wish you both good luck on your journey. Please don't let it slip away I can see both of your passion for this life. Go get it

    • @lapislazarus8899
      @lapislazarus8899 3 года назад +4

      HOAs are a bunch of facists! You have a sound plan. I wish you well!

    • @7Jennifer
      @7Jennifer 3 года назад +1

      @@jacobcrd697 Thanks so much for the vote of confidence, I appreciate it! Best life wishes to you, Jacob! 😊

  • @googliization
    @googliization 3 года назад +446

    I’ll tell you a secret, more than half of the planet lives less than 500$ a month.

    • @RianneCtenVeen
      @RianneCtenVeen 3 года назад +56

      @@rell7773 those governments arrange e.g. infrastructure (easy to take for granted!)

    • @sashachip
      @sashachip 3 года назад +67

      and here's what's not a secret- most of them hope to be able to live a more 'luxurious' life one day. They live on less than $500 only because they have no other choice.

    • @lkd06
      @lkd06 3 года назад +21

      @@RianneCtenVeen they cut corners on necessary infrastructure and waste it on pork projects for their cronies

    • @Meinan4370
      @Meinan4370 3 года назад +4

      @@RianneCtenVeen taxes in California are increasing and already so high and I don’t see any real improvement

    • @mwj5368
      @mwj5368 3 года назад +10

      I think though he must be in very good health being he has no health insurance. I think it is very admirable he is not a materialistic person and he finds happiness in the beauty around him and in the present moment. It's amazing he can go to so many intriguing places in the world, live a good quality of life on just $500 a month whether or not others live for less money than he does.

  • @ZenTeaNow
    @ZenTeaNow 3 года назад +3

    I am Singaporean like Peter Lawrence too. Many in Singapore live to acquire more - this is the bane of a rich country. Sometimes I wonder how we breed such a unique, monk-like man who follows a different drum beat. An inspiration.

    • @sararichardson737
      @sararichardson737 3 года назад +1

      I think this is a man of means, previously and it sickened him. Singapore is consumption obsessed.

  • @judyonzen
    @judyonzen 3 года назад +5

    i was wondering how Peter has been since i saw your first video on his minimalism life years ago. that video and Peter had opened up my eyes and mind on the meaning of simple living. i keep watching it every now and then...never get tired of it...thank you!!!

  • @thelandofmint
    @thelandofmint 3 года назад +45

    Ha, I live on 150 euros a month, some months nothing!😀 that's in the mountains in central Italy💛

    • @rickydee5863
      @rickydee5863 3 года назад +3

      That's cool sue the scenery must be beautiful in the mountains and peacefull to do you have access to streams or rivers?

    • @thelandofmint
      @thelandofmint 3 года назад +2

      @@rickydee5863 a well..yes it's so beautiful here.😊💛

    • @rm6857
      @rm6857 3 года назад +1

      I ve been really considering to move to Apeniny. Quite good climate, cheap living...

    • @frithbarbat
      @frithbarbat 3 года назад +1

      I would love to know more about how you live. I could do this, the eternal nomad thing, but would be more interested in doing it in Europe, which doesn't usually sound affordable.

    • @rickydee5863
      @rickydee5863 3 года назад +1

      @@thelandofmint wow sounds like a grey space to be present and in the moment

  • @LisaGrace
    @LisaGrace 3 года назад +1

    If you do not want to move every three to six months, or travel, there are pockets of beautiful, still affordable places in the USA. I live in a place most would envy. I have the Gulf of Mexico in my backyard and modern conveniences. And have a high quality of life while living on a modest cost structure.

  • @sandoandrew
    @sandoandrew 3 года назад +2

    I love that you did an update video on him. I have his first video saved and I always go back to it when I need to focus on minimalism.

  • @MaxKoenig-Mk001
    @MaxKoenig-Mk001 3 года назад +6

    One of the most inspiring episodes for me. Thanks a lot!

  • @arapamplona8220
    @arapamplona8220 3 года назад +7

    There are several small apartments/shared living communities here in Ajijic. Great for travelers and full-time living too. I chose Aijijc as my living base and I keep traveling and coming back as I have the best quality-balanced lifestyle here. I’ll show you around next time

    • @roscothestowaway
      @roscothestowaway 3 года назад

      That is great information, thanks! I've been wanting to live this way, but as part of a community. This gives me a place to start.

  • @AnnAndNala
    @AnnAndNala 3 года назад +6

    This man is an incredibly evolved individual, and a most wonderful example of genuine humble self awareness and higher consciousness. Thank you for sharing this, it's incredibly eye opening.

  • @consideredwhisper
    @consideredwhisper 3 года назад +3

    I have travelled a lot when I was much younger, and I can honestly say that it was quite a challenge being a woman in most countries. A man has cultural freedom almost everywhere, a lone woman was ‘unusual’ and attracted all kinds of attention and curiosity, sometimes very challenging. I am in my 60s now, and expect it would be totally different. This man’s simple lifestyle, especially as a writer and artist, is really inspirational. Food for thought...

    • @Darjeelingla
      @Darjeelingla 3 года назад +1

      I’m a boomer. Began traveling the world since I was 17. My wise father encouraged me to get going.
      My life is, and has always been, full. And I’ve learned how to be at ease with “whatever”. At all times. 🙏🏼🌺🦋🙏🏼

    • @birgip.m.1236
      @birgip.m.1236 2 года назад +1

      Yep.
      As a solo female traveller, the risks & challenges & thus considerations, are different than for a male.
      Sadly, we still live in a man's world, ruled by patriarchy & insecure misogynists.

  • @limitlesszenproductions865
    @limitlesszenproductions865 3 года назад +4

    I've been fortunate to have backpacked for a few months at a time during the Canadian winter over the past 5 years(not this year). I have been to a few of the places in this video and I can totally see myself doing this in the next few years. there are of course pros and cons to everything. But if you don't like it you can always move or adapt or go home. Great video. I love his calmness and outlook.

  • @CliffordBustria
    @CliffordBustria 3 года назад +5

    Thanks K.D., I've been positively permanently changed by every production in an instant or over time ... if you're not subscribed yet you're missing

  • @sivakumarsathiamoorthy6583
    @sivakumarsathiamoorthy6583 3 года назад

    I had the privilege of meeting Peter Lawrence while he was in Singapore. He is a unique person and even though I don't think that I can be like him, he is a role model and influenced me a lot.

  • @janteo3645
    @janteo3645 3 года назад +1

    This video is very inspiring. He seems happier than most of us who are living "normal" lives. Good for him.

  • @SustainerNYC
    @SustainerNYC 3 года назад +2

    "After all, modern humans lived as nomads for 99% of our history." Wondrous, wise - many thanks for finding & featuring Peter Lawrence!

  • @ronnielola6594
    @ronnielola6594 3 года назад

    So refreshing... Life is what u make it... It doesn't matter where u live.... I live in the big city in France but I have chosen to live a simple life.... I always make sure I give a second chance to everything I own... I decided to move to a smaller apartment with my family... I buy second-hand mostly.... Merci beaucoup for sharing this kind of life with us. 🙏🏿❤️

  • @Christa-tl8jb
    @Christa-tl8jb 3 года назад +20

    I would like to do this when I retire in 7.5 years. I could sell my home live off of that money and my pension and I should be good.....I hope

    • @Victor-iq5rd
      @Victor-iq5rd 3 года назад

      Yea we are about to have a 1929 stock market crash. I wouldn't if I were you....

    • @candymountainvibe6923
      @candymountainvibe6923 3 года назад

      Christa that’s what we are doing in a year
      Best to you

  • @maryjones8039
    @maryjones8039 3 года назад +3

    Great video, I own four suitcases and have been traveling and working a little for 25 years. Nothings going to keep me down, you only live once and those that want to live in their little bubble of a community, go for it, I don't have the tolerance for that kind of boredom.

  • @quejess
    @quejess 3 года назад +3

    Very beautiful Kirsten. Thanks for the update

  • @1lif2liv
    @1lif2liv 3 года назад

    I am pleased to see an update on Peter Lawrence and how he is living. Back in Sep 2013 when you first posted about The Happy Minimalist it struck a cord and set me on a minimizing journey. Peter personifies the minimalist life in all ways.

  • @lucidsoulmeditation8731
    @lucidsoulmeditation8731 3 года назад +4

    Very inspiring personality! I really want to reduce my cost of living to have more freedom like him.

  • @janejeffery2615
    @janejeffery2615 3 года назад +4

    Beautiful and inspiring and a great example of alternate living
    Thank you for sharing

  • @Cutlerypotato
    @Cutlerypotato 3 года назад +12

    I really like this guy, very non cookie cutter

  • @hugopratoller8703
    @hugopratoller8703 3 года назад +1

    Really beautiful video. Nice touching sensibility, extremely confortable editing. What a break from normalized histeria. Thank you.

  • @brandonb7120
    @brandonb7120 3 года назад +2

    Wow! I watch your original video on Peter atleast 2-3 times a year and often wonder what he's up to. So glad to see!

    • @brandonb7120
      @brandonb7120 3 года назад

      @@chris.dt580 yeah I'm hearing you. I always find myself watching the original on Peter and then also the Dan Price (Hobbit) one.

  • @kokonana4086
    @kokonana4086 3 года назад +2

    Remember watching his vid. on this channel a few years back and love it so much. Glad to see him back again. He epitomizes a modern-day nomad.

  • @minimalist5555life
    @minimalist5555life 3 года назад +1

    Thankyou for this update and look forward to more

  • @corbelius6
    @corbelius6 3 года назад +1

    Thank you Kirsten for all of your wonderful content! Please keep up the great work! Much Love and respect.

  • @soldtobediers
    @soldtobediers 3 года назад +5

    11:50
    ''You can only lose what you have.''
    What a wonderful prelude to the familiar quote we know as...
    ''You don't know what you got till it's gone.''
    18:20
    ''What's really left then to surmise
    Does it not remain in every heart
    Within even it's tiniest part
    That destined will to fight to survive?'' -2621

  • @dukenukem5135
    @dukenukem5135 3 года назад +5

    This is amazing. Unfortunately having a family, this wouldn't be easy

  • @indiracamotim2858
    @indiracamotim2858 3 года назад

    Lovely !
    Thanks 🙏🏻, Kirsten, for sharing this video !

  • @SDKsa1
    @SDKsa1 3 года назад +1

    Incredible. Truly a man forging his own meaning in this world.

  • @tupisamba211
    @tupisamba211 3 года назад +4

    I've been doing geographical arbitrage as a minimalist (though not to the extreme like him) for over 10 yrs but I started out dirt poor, even though I'm from the US. What started out as $300/mo in expenses has slowly grown over the years to just under $1K/mo but I still live a way better life than what I personally could afford in the States. It's not for everyone and it does get lonely. Also, different from Peter, I spend the extra time to find ways to stay longer than a tourist in most places, which requires visas.
    I should also point out, Peter is perhaps not a "true" minimalist, if I'm allowed to be pedantic for a moment. He is simply outsourcing (his need for) physical items and paperwork-related headaches to others.

    • @mightbesherwood1313
      @mightbesherwood1313 3 года назад +1

      What I've learned from the minimalism subreddit is that the true sign of a minimalist is someone who questions the true definition of it. Which some people find tedious, but really it becomes a philosophical debate - not a bad thing to have.

  • @2005CessnaPilot
    @2005CessnaPilot 3 года назад

    inspirational! All I'd add is my wife and my BMW GS motorcycle. I'd do it in Costa del Sol, Spain.

  • @txspacemom765
    @txspacemom765 3 года назад +2

    OHH! Thank you for the follow up on him! He is a favorite!

  • @penguinchick6563
    @penguinchick6563 3 года назад +4

    I live on $500 a month in WASHINGTON... I love that he rebuilt his shoes (I have 3 pair, sower, summer@, winter) but I live in a class b. 👍

  • @sashachip
    @sashachip 3 года назад +9

    The guy lived in Santa Clara, California. You cant be called a 'snowbird' if you lived in a place that had no snow to begin with lol. He seems content and satisfied to live this life but i can't say he seems happy. There's a difference between content and happy- the former being more a product of acceptance of one's current situation while the latter having more to do with a realization of one's dreams. Perhaps i'm projecting my own dreams and ideas of happiness but watching the video i just don't get the feeling this man is truly happy. He seems to be content, the way a monk is content, but i think one needs to dream a little bit to find happiness.

    • @fenraven
      @fenraven 3 года назад +3

      That's surprising, because I felt he was definitely happy in the purest sense of the word. Guess it depends on how you define it.

    • @lionofgod5843
      @lionofgod5843 3 года назад

      As he says you can only lose what you have. So is that because he has a fear of loss or has lost too much? I rather agree I see him as content but this is a very lonely life and therefore I don’t see him as extremely happy. He risks travel & different countries but somehow does not take any chances with those things of the heart or other similar things that count.

    • @fenraven
      @fenraven 3 года назад +1

      @@lionofgod5843 "Lonely" is relative. I live alone, and for the past year, because of COVID, I haven't seen any friends. I miss spending time with them, but I wouldn't consider myself lonely. I have inner resources and am rarely bored. I think I'd be quite happy spending time in other countries, meeting new people, exploring cultures different from mine. I don't think I'd be lonely at all. "What counts" is an individual thing.

    • @lionofgod5843
      @lionofgod5843 3 года назад +2

      @@fenraven I agree. I am similar to you. But most aren’t. Usually folks choose this life because it is easier not because it’s better. It is easier for me to be alone and I can make myself quite happy.

  • @aarinteich
    @aarinteich 3 года назад

    I have watched many many videos of yours, Kristen. I love small architecture, interesting designs, DYI, reclaimed and recycled projects. This video had none of that and I think it might be one of my favorite viewing experiences ever.

  • @SoCalFreelance
    @SoCalFreelance 3 года назад +3

    5:24 Beautiful display of natures bounty. I know what it's like to eat like that when I was in Sicily for a month. The flavors of fresh foods are amazing and you feel rejuvenated. 💪

  • @ragemodels
    @ragemodels 3 года назад +4

    Fascinating and lovely soul low impact on mother earth !!! Also he sounds like an Experienced Time Traveller!!!

  • @sirikit5718
    @sirikit5718 3 года назад +8

    This was so good I watched it twice.

    • @lisamallory8250
      @lisamallory8250 3 года назад +3

      I watched it thrice. He is so chill and the scenery was like a travel show.

  • @TinaSotis
    @TinaSotis 3 года назад +2

    I would be terribly lonely if I live this lifestyle. I need community and connection with people in order to not become depressed and lost. I envy those who can live with themselves easily and not need others' company. I know this because I tried this lifestyle.

    • @dach3405
      @dach3405 3 года назад

      I agree with you. I think majority of people still need that sense of connection to community. That seems to be the default setting in us as social beings. Living as an eternal nomad works maybe for some but I doubt that it will ever work for the majority of people.

  • @jdchy6181
    @jdchy6181 3 года назад +2

    i am a fellow singaporean and i’ve been watching these nomadic/alternative living videos for ages and man was i surprised to actually found one aft sooooo long 🥺

  • @aliceneely2647
    @aliceneely2647 3 года назад +1

    What a beautiful life and person . If only all humans had his contentment.

  • @TravelNP
    @TravelNP 3 года назад +4

    “ Golden repair- the art of taking something broken and turning it into something beautiful “

  • @pigstain7531
    @pigstain7531 3 года назад +20

    $500/month in my country is a very very very comfortable money to have

    • @MrYngram
      @MrYngram 3 года назад +6

      Russia, almost anywhere except Moscow.

    • @alx1984
      @alx1984 3 года назад +9

      I spend $270/month living in Russia. $500/month is luxury for most people in the world

    • @sergio2806
      @sergio2806 3 года назад +8

      Support it. I'm from Russia too, Siberia, there middle class have 200-400 usd/month per family (+in winter time payment is more expensive for accommodation and clothes). For now I live in Indonesia, here families have about 100-150 usd/month per family... From my view that guy pretty rich😅

    • @andredubois4601
      @andredubois4601 3 года назад +2

      @@alx1984Interesting. In Germany it costs about 800$/month to life a fairly basic life as a student. Once you have a family, house etc. it can go into the thousands each month really fast.

    • @alx1984
      @alx1984 3 года назад +5

      @@andredubois4601 'It' can go wherever you want. If you have money it's easy to waste it all. But it doesn't change the fact that billions of people live for less than $500. The man in video just use world's inequality for his own benefit and make 'philosophy' from it.

  • @ahmetjank3892
    @ahmetjank3892 3 года назад +13

    it takes a lot of guts to live like this. I am glad he found what he truly likes to do. But certainly it wont be possible to everyone such as like me with wife and 4 children

    • @lutongmybahay1375
      @lutongmybahay1375 3 года назад +1

      Maybe if you retire at 55 and you and your wife can travel.

  • @carrotandpineapple8756
    @carrotandpineapple8756 3 года назад

    I watch his first video on you tube on this chanel for many times and daughter said 'Mom, why are you watching this video again and again?'. I even saved the video. Too bad cant find the his book in Bahasa Indonesia (i hope there is one). His video always makes me feel peaceful. His words 'that you can always check your money balance in bank but you cant check your time left in this world, makes me think that life is too short, i must live right. So thankful for this video. I guess lots of people who wonders and asked for following video feels joyful now by this second video of him. Peter Lawrence thank you so much. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

  • @user-yb6tk1ru6x
    @user-yb6tk1ru6x 3 года назад +2

    The more things you own the more things you have to worry about.

  • @Sweetlyfe
    @Sweetlyfe 3 года назад +2

    A great example of someone living intentionally, very inspiring.

  • @gustiari3442
    @gustiari3442 3 года назад +1

    I feel sad to see this video! He is so brave to live the life this way!!! He is amazing!!

  • @drummerlovesbookworm9738
    @drummerlovesbookworm9738 3 года назад +8

    I guess everyone has a different definition for “quality of life.’

  • @juanmacias5922
    @juanmacias5922 3 года назад +1

    Such an intelligent man, what a way to live.

  • @violetraton8731
    @violetraton8731 3 года назад

    I am already living frugal but I can still learn from this gentleman...

  • @stacistaci6657
    @stacistaci6657 3 года назад +14

    I put this on a 2x playback speed and he still sounds like he's speaking really slowly

  • @airsolaja
    @airsolaja 3 года назад +1

    People want simple life. Simple life does not mean the absence of comfort. Simple life means that value is given to quality and meaningfulness of lifestyle and experiences , not quantity of stuff we posses and status these things has been awarded in this time and age.

  • @kwokweng76
    @kwokweng76 3 года назад +1

    finally........another video updateof peter again!!

  • @KatieReadsKoziesAndMore
    @KatieReadsKoziesAndMore 3 года назад +5

    This lifestyle would be wonderful for a perpetual student. Languages, climate change, cultures. He is a true citizen of the world. Amazing.

  • @tammyroyal7547
    @tammyroyal7547 3 года назад +4

    This was a very interesting video. It always amazes me how some people live for so little money. He seems content.

  • @ccartist516
    @ccartist516 3 года назад

    De lo mejor que he visto en mucho tiempo. Gracias 🙏🏾

  • @BucketListTravellers
    @BucketListTravellers 3 года назад +1

    I like his rationale for seeking out places of eternal spring. We've been living a similar lifestyle for the last year and it's very freeing having carry on only.

  • @matl1483
    @matl1483 3 года назад +1

    Want less and live more.
    Good life 👍🙏

  • @Nerd3927
    @Nerd3927 3 года назад +2

    Very impressive. I chose to live nomadic on a boat. I can also live quite minimalistic, but a boat is to slow to choose your weather.

  • @isabelaguzei8745
    @isabelaguzei8745 3 года назад

    Well that's LIVING. Beautiful, sustenable and unique. We should all be brave and responsable enough to live life in our own term. Respect.

  • @alohadave13
    @alohadave13 3 года назад +2

    This was a WOW video and very relaxing to watch.

  • @katiegreene3960
    @katiegreene3960 2 года назад

    What a wonderful story and example. We lived a similar lifestyle for about 2 years in Ecuador. One of the locations was an eternal spring location and also on the top 20 list of valleys of longevity.....Vilcabamba Ecuador. It was one of the best times of our life.

  • @AlcvinRyuzenRamos
    @AlcvinRyuzenRamos 3 года назад

    My hero! Thanks for sharing his story, Kirsten!

  • @DrAvrilSix
    @DrAvrilSix 3 года назад

    You have followed your heart. How inspiring! 💜🙏

  • @Francisco_Manos
    @Francisco_Manos 3 года назад +2

    Personally, I could not this with a wife and kids but his life seems very low stress and beautiful.

  • @agracian1
    @agracian1 3 года назад +1

    A better option might have been to rent out his condo, and use the income from it for his geo-arbitrage lifestyle, rather than selling it . This would have given him more long term security, sustainability of his finance, potential of capital appreciation, and would have given him a 'base' and the option to return if he needs to when older/if he was unwell.

    • @Antandthegrasshopper
      @Antandthegrasshopper 2 года назад

      That is how you think. He doesn't think like you! He lives in the world and will die somewhere... what difference does it make, base or no base?

  • @RobbsHomemadeLife
    @RobbsHomemadeLife 3 года назад +1

    I liked how well the video was made and edited, it was a very good documentary. For a monetary comparison, I try to live frugally here in Sunrise Florida and my monthly costs including car ownership and medical and condo maintenance, food,etc is about $980. The 55 and over condo is paid for and maintenance is only $290. Taxes with homestead exemption is about $600 yearly. Before Covid bus transportation was only $1 for seniors. There are many thrift stores nearby for cheap clothes and housewares and multiple food stores mean a person can purchase items on sale and save a lot.