Thank you Alfredo for speaking of Italians as highly as you did. It made me smile and appreciate my own country even more than I Did before. I am so glad we made you feel at home.
Its a beautiful country full of beautiful people and we hope we can relate that to the world. We came for the lifestyle and your culture which is based on pleasure and beauty, but we stay because of the people.
When you said..."Italy Is NOT a place where money comes first." That's what United States is missing....I Love the U.S. and always will. I was born and raised in Arizona. But at the age of 61 I am discouraged about my future because of the cost of houses, cost of living, crime, and the lack of connection with others. When I am friendly or attempt to speak to certain generations I get looked at like I am crazy. I would like to live in a country where the general spirit is that of integrity and community....
Hello everyone… new subscriber here having discovered this channel only a few days ago. I moved to Italy from the UK 4-years ago while working in Rome, but after 2-years of being here, I fell in love with the place and retired here at age 53! I bought a small fixer-up home near Rieti, couldn’t believe my luck, a beautiful little medieval village castle set in the hills next to lake salto. Now I am the only foreigner to have ever lived in my village and because I am still learning to speak Italian, the language barrier remains a frustration for me but my Italian neighbours have been so incredibly warm and welcoming and I get a genuine sense that they are thrilled to have me here. The sense of community is like nothing I’ve ever experienced in my whole life. I agree with everything said in this video 😊 and the cost of living here is easily less than 1/4 of what I needed to survive in the UK, for sure I am not rich and I’ve made lifestyle changes to fund early retirement but one thing has become clear to me, non of my changes have felt like a compromise in my quality, enjoyment and appreciation of life and the new friendships and sense of “home” that I now feel.
Does the Italians welcome African-American older female? Im looking to move abroad and so fascinated with Italy 🇮🇹 but I want my living experience as a middle aged black woman to be enjoyable!!
My mother was Italian. Came to U.S. with my father after WWII. I never heard her mention anything about someone's wealth. Always saw her admiration for how one managed their religion, family, and career. I enjoyed this video!
One of my favorite things about Italian culture is that its values and focus are very different from ours. They tend to look at who you are, and how you run your life and how you treat others. This is a good thing! Chip
When in Italy one of my best moves ever was when I asked the waiter to serve me his favorite meal. Pasta and mussels in red sauce. I never would have chosen that, it is now my favorite. I love Italy.
I have dual citizenship (US/Malta) and left America when I was 40. I lived and worked in Malta, but the cost of living and immigration made me decide to leave. I retired in Sicily and purchased an old liveable home that needs work for €9,000 (nine thousand). Since I am an EU citizen and have worked in an EU country and contributed enough taxes, my medical care is free. I love the safety, cost of living and life in my village. 🤗🇮🇹
@@MartineReed I settled on a central Sicilian village. I think that everyone has to decide for themselves where to live. I visited Palermo, Mussomeli and Agrigento before settling in San Cataldo. 😁
I love hearing this! Where is a good place to go retire in Italy? I’m 1/4 Sicilian and a plumber in the US. I’m going to Sicily in October to check it out
@@bmanscire I arrived in Palermo in 2022. However my Italian was very limited. I visited Palermo, Mussomeli, Agrigento and finally San Cataldo. The Lord directed me to this particular village and house. I found the house online and fortunately the real estate agent's son spoke English.
We retired in Italy too, 15 years ago and never regretted it. Didn’t speak Italian when we first arrived, either but are more or less fluent now, enough for our everyday life and friendly contacts. I agree with everything said in this video
This is sad for the USA. My grandparents came to America from Italy in the 1920's for opportunity. They did well, as did their children (my dad and his siblings). Now I'm 60 with a $6000 medical deductible and $1,000 per month medical insurance bill and I'm healthy! It's all out of control here. But what's more out of control is the absolutely isolating world we are living in here. My neighbors barely talk to me. Two times a year when you meet at the mailbox! It's crazy. No one is friendly anymore. It's really a sad cultural reality. I was last in Italy in 2017 and really love it there. You've given me food for thought. I think my brother and his wife are set on spending half a year in Italy to start.
Australia is the same.....lots of Italians here (including my family) but this place has gone the same way as the US, Canada, etc.....unfriendly, completely unaffordable, more crime.........I'm eyeing Italy for retirement :)
excellent video, I am 61, my parents were german and pole, who left germany after WW2 to come to america...here I am trying to escape what it has become, my heart is heavy...I hope this lovely nation will accept me to make a home for the years I have left...cheers
Chip, what a great video. The Mediterranean countries are much more focused on 'community' and feeling part of a community is really important as we get older. Your message is uplifting.
At 87 I realize that retirement in Italy was a thought I had and just never followed through. The two trips we took to Italy, one a Tauck tour on a sailboat along the Amalfi coast and a Perillo bus tour exposed us to the things you covered in the video. Being half Italian and having an affinity to the history and culture of Italy has caused me to realize what could have happened if I followed through.
@@renatomacchi2195your remark seems mean spirited and uncalled-for. Fairly obviously the poster meant that they have one Italian parent. Put your energy to better use…
The good thing about all this is that you know it! Next time you have an opportunity to do something or learn something or see something.. do it. That will make you feel great! I wish you well. Chip
I'm 40, born and raised in Italy (Naples)....but living in Austria which is not that far. Everything you described makes me miss Italy every single day. Austrians are very cold and private as people and have no sense of community, I hate it. but here I have 2 kids with my EX and can't really leave them (or bring them with me). thanks for the video, I hope you continue to enjoy the rest of your retirement in Italy.
I love Italy. Just spent two weeks there and the people were terrific. And the food, gelato, and coffee were even better. It's full of beautiful art, incredible architecture, and very warm people.
Got my juris sanguis citizenship several years ago and finally moved to southern Italy last year. The only question in my mind at this point is why in the world I didn't move sooner? Life has never been so good. Sure, Italy has its share of problems......but it DOESN'T have rampant crime, unsafe streets, insane "woke" culture, elevated cost of living, etc. etc. etc. My family has NEVER been happier.
Where can I learn about juris sanguis citizenship? Specifically, can I qualify and what I would need to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Search online for the newest information, published or updated in 2023. Make sure you understand all the implications, the pros (second passport, healthcare, etc.) and cons (Italian tax structure and how it applies to you. You have a choice of which country you pay taxes to, but you may have to file in both, depending) of becoming a dual citizen. Here is a link, but there are many others; info@italiancitizenshipassistance.com Good Luck!!
Oh man, I’m 70 and am so jealous to hear about so many of the commenters who have done what Chris has. I’ve been to Italy 4 times and absolutely thought every time that I would love to live there! BUT I found the same kind of experiences here in the good ole USA in a very small town in the middle of nowhere Texas where I’m feeling like I’m still living in the 1960’s or 1970’s. I grew up in New York City and moved here from California. The people, slow pace, respectful children, low cost rent or land, everybody knows my name, low taxes and, of course, Medicare. We don’t have Italian food sadly but I am a very good cook and eat Italian 5 nights a week. Just wanted to point out that living inexpensively in America is possible as they are many, many small towns just like mine.
Thanks for your vlog and insights into living in Italy. We traveled to Italy from Australia every year since 2002. Last year we retired to Italy and now whilst in our 60s we're beginning our lives all over. We share many of the experiences you described. Our working careers involved 12 hour+ days so stepping into a slower pace of life has been good for us. Something the Italians have perfected. In Australia we'd be handed an invoice from a tradesperson on the spot. In Italy it can take months... people still trust each other. I'm interested in your Private Health Insurance, the cost you mentioned is much lower than what we pay. Maybe you cover this off somewhere? An emerging area of interest to us is co-housing in Italy for retired expats. Imagine a lovely villa divided into independent apartments where the resident community who share common interests fund all the services they need, gardener, housekeeper, possibly a nurse at some stage.. "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" style villa in Italy...La dolce vita!
For all those who are concerned about the level of health care in Italy, I would like to say that it is not that they are going to live in Rwanda; Italian hospital and specialty medicine in Italy is at the highest level and we have nothing to learn from the United States, while primary care medicine has some little gaps and delays in responding to patients: it used to be second in Europe, but today it needs to be revisited and improved.
Little gaps,I think it’s a bit more complicated the medical personnel is being attacked by angry patients .The emergency department is so overwhelmed 2/3 days wait for a room people actually passed away while waiting I lived it no doctors they are so underpaid it’s awful.
Couldn't agree more. Me and my family lived there for 7 years and just returned to USA about a year ago. I am struggling with the "reverse culture shock" here - and yes it is a thing. Prices of everything here, food, gas, rent, etc is ridiculous! Not to mention the rat race mentality! But the most important things that you touched on are the pace of life and the quality of the relationships there. Even after a year, I am still chatting with my Italian friends "back home" almost on a daily basis. Looking to retire in the next 10 years, and going "home" is the number one priority. Interested in learning where you settled down in - which region?
Food for thought indeed. I studied abroad in Firenze for a year in 1998, after having spent 3 years in college learning Italian - love of the language was the reason I went, but ended up absolutely in love with the people, the culture, and the landscape, too. I miss it terribly! I'm 54 now and the cost of healthcare here in the US is ridiculous and out of control, and we don't have a lot for retirement. I hadn't thought about this as an option... hmm.
I fell in love with Italy as a teenage exchange student fifty years ago. I fell in love with Italy for all the reasons you mention. La vita e dolce in Italia!
i also moved to Italy and you are right about everything you mentioned,my rent for 2 bedroom house is 250 a month,health care is free because i got my italian citizenship from my mom.Italy is a wonderful place to live in and explore
Italy's wonderful ... we bought a house in Calabria 12 years ago and have enjoyed the treasured connections we've made with the people in our community. We're still splitting our time between California and Italy, but especially now, prices of everything except gas is much less than in California. I get free health care in Italy (thanks to my property investment business there) vs. $1K/month in California).
Hi, Super Savvy: Glad you are watching, and thanks for the info. True: living in Italy is less expensive, but of more importance to us, it has a better lifestyle. Chip
@@davidlynch9049 Truth. Unless you are poor in retirement, it's expensive regarding their taxes on your savings/retirement. My brother in law has told me the high tax includes the healthcare cost for residents.
I'm 38 yrs old now and i know i will not be able to retire or want to retire here in the US. So, i want and bought place in Spain this year. After i visited Spain i felt strong connection to the culture and the easy going life style and enjoyed the weather and everything. Also i realized that waiting until i retire to buy place won't be wise since i already see the movement of alot of Americans, Canadians, Brits, Germans, and Scandinavians who are on the move to Spain and Portugal and Italy.
We also left crazy-land and moved to Italy (it's so true about the dry cleaning person) we have store here we call the "Two Sisters" and if you forgot your money, you're still good to go and they don't care so much about the money as they do the relationship with you. Bravo
Greetings from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺 adore all aspects of the Italian culture have travelled to Italy numerous times I’m keen to travel to Puglia next year
This just what I needed to hear I visited on my 50th birthday as a gift to myself and fell in love with all things Italy and planning on moving there when I’m retired thanks for the information 🥂
i'm only 32, but about a year ago my sister brought getting our dual citizenship in Italy. ever since then my plan has been to buy a home and eventually retire with my family to Italy. My sister has lived in italy but ive never been, but i just had a feeling it was the place i needed to end up. You're video just confirmed the feeling that i had! i'm so excited to continue working toward this goal.
I’m 50 years old and am contemplating relocating to Italy when I turn 56, upon my retirement. I’m curious to know which village or province you reside in. I truly appreciate the fantastic video; it was incredibly informative. I believe my motivations for moving to Italy will align with yours.
I am a spaniard naturalized American citizen. I love my native country but Healthcare there is not what Americans are used too. It is rationed in Spain if you get national Healthcare. Waiting lists are long to see a doctor and to get diagnostic tests. Particularly if you choose to live in a small to medium sized town. Lots to consider before you decide to move
Totally agree! Things are much too expensive for the average retiree in the USA! I’m heading to Italy or France for sure. Buying a property all cash so I can reduce monthly expenses overall. Cheap and nice property is available - not in Paris or Rome, but in other parts of these beautiful countries. Check it all out!! Get to know other Americans interested in living abroad via International Living webinars and in person seminars/events. I found many resources for real estate online in English or auto-translated. And there’s a cottage industry helping Brits and other English speakers relo to France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Latin America may also be an option. Trains and public transit it Europe is absolutely fantastic. Clean, fast, on time and easy.
It is right for basically anyone, anywhere. It is so Affordable, with no valid reason, and offers more than Anyplace in my humble opinion. So you are a good, lucid person, with correct recognition. Your words in this video bare that out precisely. Congrats to you on being a Winner in life. When you make good decisions you generally get rewarded. Enjoy Sir. God Bless.
Thanks for the information. Yes the US is expensive to live in, yes it's money first but it's where my roots are. My kids are, and my grandkids are. I worked until 64 and saved enough for a good retirement. But I wish you and your wife the best in Italy.
I love love Italia and so looking forward in spending more time there either in Calabria or other regions. I love the fresh food and their culture and their gorgeous landscape and art. I will have a pension and my health care is set. Not sure how that will work in Europe or will I have to pay since not in the USA. I envy you. Thank you for your informative vid. La vita è bella.
I’m so glad I found your channel. I’m about 15 years from even considering retirement, and everything you’ve said already points to the need to leave America with its sole focus on the almighty dollar. I’m watching, keep it coming!
Thanks so much Chip. My husband I just came back from our 2nd trip to Italy in ten years. We are about to retire. What a thoughtful discussion you've provided. You have sparked a true interest as we absolutely love where we live here, in the hills of Northern California, but the idea of a simpler, more affordable lifestyle is enticing. Thanks so much.
I agree with your assessment of the financial advantage of retiring in Italy. I retired in in 2019 because I knew I could never enjoy the same quality of life in the Bay Area. I loved the Bay Area but I would never afford to buy it rent once I was no longer getting a paycheck. I do miss the diversity of people and food as well as the cool weather of San Francisco but that is what yearly visits are for.
I’ve so often heard that it can be frustrating to live in Italy because you need to “know someone” in order to get anything done. I’m happy to hear that you haven’t had to deal with that. Which area of the country do you live in?
It's a stereotype, and stereotypes are based on half truths. I mean, nepotism is a world issue, not only in Italy. Lets' say if you a retired you don't have such an issue too much because you don't have to deal with the world of work. Anyway, if you need something and you have a friend who has that "something" you need, it happens you came fisrt because you're a friend. This doesn't mean you cannot get what you need if you don't know anyone, you get it just later than the friend.
Great video. I and my wife are from southern Brazil (lots of german and italian immigration influences), she is an "oriundi", so in 2018 she got her Italy "citadinanza" recognized. I used to fly to some italian destinations (as a corporate jet pilot, until 2012) and always loved the experience. Even the people who work at the FBOs (fixed base operators) at the airports were usually kinder with foreigners. We could move in the future, too. Not yet a decision, but definitely one of our first options. 😎🍷🍕🇮🇪 🇧🇷
A retired expat living in Sicily. On the whole I can say it’s been a great decision. The only drawback is the incredible hassle dealing with residency and tax issues.
Thank you for a great video! I’m certainly considering Italy for my retirement. I was lucky enough to have lived in Italy from 1987-1990. It was incredible.
New subscriber here. My wife just dropped this idea on me a few weeks ago and I’m still processing. I was happily living here never thinking about leaving Oregon. She said that she’s getting her citizenship because her grandparents were Italian and she wants to move there. I was looking for reasons not to go, but watching this video with you, I am now thinking maybe she has something. Selling everything I’ve spent my entire life getting kinda freaks me out but maybe she’s not looney 😉 Thank you for posting
Dear Super Dave, listen carefully to your wife... I believe very much in gut instinct. I also believe that when we challenge ourselves, we become better people. I have an inexpensive group who can help your wife find her ancestry and get her citizenship should she qualify.. Let me know at info@thelaughingretirment if I can help. We also have a retirement event on the 25th of March with SS, Medicare, Retiring overseas, and finances in retirement all for $29.95. Live with Q&A at the end, recorded so you can watch later if you want/need to. Let me know. C
@@thelaughingretirement4714 I'm 72 and ready to move to Italy. My grandpa was from Genoa and would like to get my citizenship too. Can you help me please? I heard on the internet Piedmont was beautiful. My grandpa was born in a city in Sites but went to work in Genoa. I'd appreciate your help very much.
I have an inexpensive group who can help find her ancestry and get her citizenship should she qualify.. Let me know at info@thelaughingretirment if I can help.
Thank you for sharing. Italy is where I want to retire with my amazing husband. America isn't the same. It's become quite alarming and scary. I look forward to making the move as soon as we can.
Hello all, I’m a new subscriber; looking to retire there this year or early next! I’ve done a lot of research. I am Italian-my father is Northern and my mother is Sicilian- I have spent time in Italy, mostly Tuscany, and love it there! Alfredo, everything you say is spot on!! Grazie!
If you can go to Italia with enough money you are golden, especially in the south! The most important thing is learning the language or dialect of the area you want to move too. I am 48 and live and work in Stamford ,Connecticut,just outside of NYC metro area. I am counting the days down too when i have enough saved to move to the place my people left 100 years ago, Benevento and Salerno. When the south was going through very tough times. Greedy landowners, invasions,earthquakes,wars, northern aggression were all some reasons almost half of the south migrated too and came back or immigrated and stayed for good. Mainly to Argentina,Brazil America,Canada and Australia . Italia is much different today, now migrants try to get in not leave .. This is all good informative advice. Thank you , grazie !
We also retired in Italy (Trieste) and I echo everything this guy is saying. Today we went to our bar on the beach where we usually hang out, and the owner knew the name of our son who came to visit and whom the owner met only once a few days ago. Drinks? 10.5, but it became ten (that's for a cocktail, a glass of white wine and a soft drink). Yesterday in our favorite restaurant the waiter greeted us with a hug. Lavish dinner for four (first some fried fish, then four large appetizers incl. two phenomenal crudos, then swordfish pasta, then main fish course, then dolce, espresso, and limitless grappa - two bottles left on the table for self-service, plus 3 bottles of wine) - 350eur, which was immediately discounted to 280eur. Ah, forgot, each person got a demi-bottle of wine to take home!
Thanks for sharing. Sounds like a wonderful meal and a wonderful time was had by all but I just want to say that that kind of meal is usually a birthday or special occasion for Italians. My wife's favorite all time wine cost 2.00 euros per bottle which she buys from an old vintner, who bottles it right from his big vat. Many would not think it was very good, but wine without chemicals is her idea of nectar of the Gods.
10-23-23 7:50 San Diego, Ca Hello Alfredo, Thank you for your video. I enjoyed watching your video and your comments. I would love to move to Italy and for all the reasons you mentioned. I have been to Italy five times. Our last visit was in September and we were on the east side of the peninsula. Absolutely loved it.
I would be interested to know exactly where you retired in Italy. Lived in Naples for 6 years and there are a few things that some would cringe at. I would be very hesitant to have any medical procedures done there. If you have to stay in a hospital, do not expect the same care you get in the US. It is required that your family/friends provide ancilliary care for the patient. You are constantly aware of your surroundings. Theft is rampant in the Southern part of Italy. Driving was fun.....an experience everyone should be a part of. You are right about the friendliness of the Italians. They will bend over backwards to help you out. However, with some that comes at a price. Quid pro quo. But some say that Naples is not part of Italy. They don't recognize anything south of Rome. I have spoken of the experience I had there. Naples is a different animal. You may think that I absolutely hated being there, but I would not have traded my experience there for anything in the world. I just wanted to point out that not all of Italy is a bed of roses.
I had multiple opportunities to go to Italy with my grandfather during the summers. I never did, and I really regretted that. My mother had an aunt that had a condo in Firenze and there was an open invitation to come and stay whenever we wanted ... none of us did ... and I really regret that too. Now that I am retired and retiring in the US doesn't look that great, I am really interested in making that move. I do have a basic command of the language ... it's the language that was usually spoken in our home when I was growing up. Thanks for your videos, I enjoy them.
Loved the video no BS honest straight to the point i missed the boat at 88 years living in Ireland hate the awful weather bad government high prices at least i can smile that you made it im in your FB page ,Thank you.
Hi David, We considered Ireland and it was one of our 5 semifinalist countries. We went to imagine what life would be like there and had one of the most wonderful mini retirement vacations there when we were choosing countries. We love the Irish people, but for the rain and some other reasons, it didn't make our top 3 list. THanks for watching!
Love your videos Chip! Thank you for being so honest and genuine, and glad to hear you are enjoying your retirement in Italy! Although I have many years to go until retirement, as a dual US / Italian citizen, I plan to move to Italy as well for retirement. So your videos are helping me plan!
You said very important thing, IT IS A FEELING Where you feel best, happy and comfortable This is exactly what I feel when I travel to Italy Amazing culture and hopefully I can move there as well at some point! Great video and amazing explanation that is true and simple
I've been living in Thailand nearly 16 years, glad you're happy in Italy but I've been all over Europe and no doubt I could afford to live there any more than I could the states.
Confused! I watched "Get the Margarita" on RUclips which is a young lady from Canada that lives in Paris. She recently did a video about her trip to Italy and the Italian's couldn't have been more rude and less helpful. I would love to hear your impression of her video because it really made me think twice about visiting or moving there.Thanks!
Its not an advertisement, its mostly just our personal experience. Of course, there is no perfect country. Living in every country has its own advantages and disadvantages and comes with set of "idiosyncrasies", but for us, for now its a nice fit.
Omg I LOVE Italy! Everything you say is sooo True! I studied a semester there and have visited three times since and I truly feel I must have been Italian in a previous life! I really hope i can retire there as well 😃 Thanks for sharing
You are right, but you can do even better. I am living in the very center of Velletri now, a town in the Roman Castles, 40 minutes train ride from Rome. Wonderful hills and mountain trails all around. A good train station connected to Rome. 25 minutes (train ride) from Ciampino airport, which has direct flights to NYC. Every service available (groceries, discount groceries, pizzerias, Italian end ethnic restaurants (even Indian) in walking distance. The rent is 400 Euros per month with a 4 + 4 years Italian style contract. 200 mq (2000 square feets) home, with 2 bathrooms and 5 rooms. There is a public hospital and countless private facilities and I don't need a car. Off course, if you need company better to look otherwise in places like Philippines, Thailand and so on. But if you came with a girlfriend or a wife, Europe is the best place to live.
Maxsszz, thanks for the comment. You are correct in everything you say. We started at 400 a month in rent and wanted a larger independent home. Great comment. Thanks Chip
I was born in Velletri. Beautiful place. You should consider to buy a little car or a motorbike to explore around. You have the beach at less than 50km away, some wonderful volcanic lakes at 10km (Nemi, Albano), a mountain range with forests at 15km (Monti Lepini), a plateau where horses for the italian national horse team are trained (Pratoni del Vivaro) at 6km, in a chestnut tree forest that is also a mushroom paradise. All this in a place surrounded with wonderful little towns with over than 3000 years of history.
"if you need company better to look otherwise in places like Philippines, Thailand and so on" In other words, better to target poor, desperate women? Disgusting.
Thank you for this video so informative. I have friend's that are Italian I so much admire their culture and lifestyle. You are corrext unlike us in America their food is freshly made.
Chip , Ciao . Awesome video , I had the opportunity to play baseball in Italy 🇮🇹 for two years . 1st year for the team of Roma & lived in Anzio , next year played for Anzio & lived there also . Beautiful country & people & the food is to die for . Looking to visit there again soon , have a friend that played baseball there for Nettuno for 15 years & married am Italy woman from Nettuno , still lives there . My Grandfather is from Villa Santa Maria ( Abuzza ) . Be well & safe . 👍⚾️🇮🇹
New subscriber here too 😃 I am 52 and in US very few people can retire at this age . Still kind of option to move to a different country in the future is something I am interested in.
Being full Italian with two sets of Italian grandparents, I consider a move to Italy.Have two cousins there. Have U.S. family, but for years I have felt a foreigner and now with the expenses rising and retired, except for being an author who doesn’t make $$$. All that is missing is a companion to be with me to enjoy this wonderful country.
Thanks for the info, for sharing your story, experience. I know if I were young I’d be seriously considering emigration. And not only because of the high cost of living in the U.S. Let’s face it, the country’s a mess and the next ten, twenty , maybe fifty years, barring some miracle, it’s only going to be worse. But I am retired now - and kind of stuck. One is the health situation. We have Medicare and a good supplement. Overseas? Anywhere else, it’s starting all over with the medical. And where we intend to go, while sure cheaper, well they got all kinda problems too - and I can’t even get a resident visa, the system backed up right now for the pandemic and for their own immigration mess. . But you’ve given me a boost, a desire to really check into ….. Thanks again!
I cant afford to retire in the UK. I will have to work until they carry me out on a gurney! I have looked at many countries but Italy looks the most friendly glorious people! Thank You for your video.
Really enjoyed the video. My wife and I may retire overseas after she retires from her US govt job (about 9 more years). I retired from the U.S. military in 2014. We’ve never been to Italy, but have visited Spain…and we were stationed overseas in Okinawa, Japan and Panama; and posted to embassies in 2 West African countries.
Thank You for this insightful information. I would like and need as much information as possible. Everything is so hectic knowing the United States now and it’s not getting any better. I look for honesty within people and communities. Unfortunately that’s not the situation today . So much deception and shady dealings. I’ve started on this journey looking and researching trying to figure out but there is always one coming in THATS better than before. What makes your story stand out is loyalty, honesty, and just plain sincerity. Thank you and your wife for doing this research... for the rest of us in society who are confused and still searching.
I go to Calabria in the summers and a kilo of fruits or vegetables in the open market can be less than one Euro. My sister in law from Milan rents and spends her summers in Trontano near the Swiss border for 500. per month however the food is more expensive there.
Great vídeo! I ll be retired in three years. Although I live confortable here, in South Brazil and we have some small/medium cities very attactive - even have an european look - the World have more to offer. I have Italian citzenship, have not visit Italy yet, but I ve been in Portugal a couple years Ago and felt in love for the coutry. Recently, I went to London and Paris and felt the same for France. Before make my decision I want to travel the whole Mediterrranean Coast, from Portugal to Turkey, passing thru Italy and visiting the cities where my grand parents came from: Caserta and Vallata.
I can afford to be retired in the US financially, I can’t afford to be retired here mentally, emotionally or politically. Just escaping the gun violence would be enough. Plus, it’s where all my grandparents are from.
L'Italia é meravigliosa! Auguri e buona fortuna! That was a great move Mr. Alfredo... I'm slowly working my way to retirement and at 57 I'm starting to do my resarch with Portugal first, even though I'm an Italian citizen... Unfortunately not with a lot of resources though... let's see what the future brings. Maybe I'll ultimately wind up landing in the place my parents came from. Thanks for sharing!
Chip, I was very impressed with your video. I've traveled to Italy at least a dozen times since 2005. I have stayed for a minimum of a month to the max of 3 months for each trip. I've traveled the entire country and all three big islands (Sicily, Sardinia and Capri). I love Italy, it's people, it's culture, the countryside, history, food and more. I've worked at a B&B/Winery (volunteered😊) and I've gone to school there to learn Italian. I'm single, 61 and like you, sick of my pension going to health insurance and renting/ leasing. I am so ready for the "Dolce far niente" part of my life. I have 2 locations narrowed down to live. Do you have a recommendation of what is the best way to make this big move? I shutter at the red tape associated with this kind of thing. I'm all ears! You have my undivided attention!
Robert, send me an email on info@thelaughingretirement.com. Reference this note on the video. Also, look at the Utube video about visas.... that will help our conversation. Also, you might look at the international living magazine, where I have a number of articles about Italy.... in the email please tell me the two areas you are looking at. chip
Hi Robert. I was wondering which two locations you narrowed your search down to, and why. Any insights into your priorities and selections would be appreciated if you have some time. Thanks
@nadiabispo5982 I chose Castiglione del Lago in Umbria because it is a great town, in an old walled city on the lake. It has a train station and you can see Tuscany from there. I also chose Bellano on Lake Como. It has a train station, mountains to hike, a boat ferry terminal and while it is on the lake and right next door to Varenna, it is not a big tourist draw, AND, because it's on the East side of the lake and situated perfectly, it had the best sunset views on the lake IMHO
Thank you Alfredo for speaking of Italians as highly as you did. It made me smile and appreciate my own country even more than I Did before. I am so glad we made you feel at home.
Its a beautiful country full of beautiful people and we hope we can relate that to the world. We came for the lifestyle and your culture which is based on pleasure and beauty, but we stay because of the people.
When you said..."Italy Is NOT a place where money comes first." That's what United States is missing....I Love the U.S. and always will. I was born and raised in Arizona. But at the age of 61 I am discouraged about my future because of the cost of houses, cost of living, crime, and the lack of connection with others. When I am friendly or attempt to speak to certain generations I get looked at like I am crazy. I would like to live in a country where the general spirit is that of integrity and community....
Hello everyone… new subscriber here having discovered this channel only a few days ago. I moved to Italy from the UK 4-years ago while working in Rome, but after 2-years of being here, I fell in love with the place and retired here at age 53! I bought a small fixer-up home near Rieti, couldn’t believe my luck, a beautiful little medieval village castle set in the hills next to lake salto. Now I am the only foreigner to have ever lived in my village and because I am still learning to speak Italian, the language barrier remains a frustration for me but my Italian neighbours have been so incredibly warm and welcoming and I get a genuine sense that they are thrilled to have me here. The sense of community is like nothing I’ve ever experienced in my whole life. I agree with everything said in this video 😊 and the cost of living here is easily less than 1/4 of what I needed to survive in the UK, for sure I am not rich and I’ve made lifestyle changes to fund early retirement but one thing has become clear to me, non of my changes have felt like a compromise in my quality, enjoyment and appreciation of life and the new friendships and sense of “home” that I now feel.
So glad to hear you are well! Congratulations. That took guts! I understand the language issues completely! Chip
Thank you for sharing with us your a Blessed man no doubt. Italians are warm and friendly people.
I’m so with you on this one!😊 I’m thinking Italy too… love Sardinia
Does the Italians welcome African-American older female? Im looking to move abroad and so fascinated with Italy 🇮🇹 but I want my living experience as a middle aged black woman to be enjoyable!!
go an visit, regions are different @@antoinettecoletv
My mother was Italian. Came to U.S. with my father after WWII.
I never heard her mention anything about someone's wealth. Always saw her admiration for how one managed their religion, family, and career.
I enjoyed this video!
One of my favorite things about Italian culture is that its values and focus are very different from ours. They tend to look at who you are, and how you run your life and how you treat others. This is a good thing! Chip
When in Italy one of my best moves ever was when I asked the waiter to serve me his favorite meal. Pasta and mussels in red sauce. I never would have chosen that, it is now my favorite. I love Italy.
Sounds like an Italian to me! Thanks for watching. Chip
I have dual citizenship (US/Malta) and left America when I was 40. I lived and worked in Malta, but the cost of living and immigration made me decide to leave. I retired in Sicily and purchased an old liveable home that needs work for €9,000 (nine thousand). Since I am an EU citizen and have worked in an EU country and contributed enough taxes, my medical care is free. I love the safety, cost of living and life in my village. 🤗🇮🇹
Evelyn I am so glad to hear that. chip
Sounds awesome! Any tips about where to live?
@@MartineReed I settled on a central Sicilian village. I think that everyone has to decide for themselves where to live. I visited Palermo, Mussomeli and Agrigento before settling in San Cataldo. 😁
I love hearing this!
Where is a good place to go retire in Italy? I’m 1/4 Sicilian and a plumber in the US. I’m going to Sicily in October to check it out
@@bmanscire I arrived in Palermo in 2022. However my Italian was very limited. I visited Palermo, Mussomeli, Agrigento and finally San Cataldo. The Lord directed me to this particular village and house. I found the house online and fortunately the real estate agent's son spoke English.
GOSH..this brought tears in my eyes
Ive been living here in ITALY 4 23YEARS...it is home
So glad for your happiness
We retired in Italy too, 15 years ago and never regretted it. Didn’t speak Italian when we first arrived, either but are more or less fluent now, enough for our everyday life and friendly contacts. I agree with everything said in this video
Thanks for watching. So happy for you
This is sad for the USA. My grandparents came to America from Italy in the 1920's for opportunity. They did well, as did their children (my dad and his siblings). Now I'm 60 with a $6000 medical deductible and $1,000 per month medical insurance bill and I'm healthy! It's all out of control here. But what's more out of control is the absolutely isolating world we are living in here. My neighbors barely talk to me. Two times a year when you meet at the mailbox! It's crazy. No one is friendly anymore. It's really a sad cultural reality. I was last in Italy in 2017 and really love it there. You've given me food for thought. I think my brother and his wife are set on spending half a year in Italy to start.
Australia is the same.....lots of Italians here (including my family) but this place has gone the same way as the US, Canada, etc.....unfriendly, completely unaffordable, more crime.........I'm eyeing Italy for retirement :)
excellent video, I am 61, my parents were german and pole, who left germany after WW2 to come to america...here I am trying to escape what it has become, my heart is heavy...I hope this lovely nation will accept me to make a home for the years I have left...cheers
Chip, what a great video. The Mediterranean countries are much more focused on 'community' and feeling part of a community is really important as we get older. Your message is uplifting.
James, I am happy you enjoyed it.
Yes no community in usa usa sucks
At 87 I realize that retirement in Italy was a thought I had and just never followed through. The two trips we took to Italy, one a Tauck tour on a sailboat along the Amalfi coast and a Perillo bus tour exposed us to the things you covered in the video. Being half Italian and having an affinity to the history and culture of Italy has caused me to realize what could have happened if I followed through.
There is no such a thing as being "Half Italian". Being Italian is NOT a Race. Being Italian is a Nationality and a way of life.
@@renatomacchi2195your remark seems mean spirited and uncalled-for. Fairly obviously the poster meant that they have one Italian parent. Put your energy to better use…
@@renatomacchi2195 well, aren't you just full of yourself. Be by quiet.
The good thing about all this is that you know it! Next time you have an opportunity to do something or learn something or see something.. do it. That will make you feel great! I wish you well. Chip
How did you like the Perillo tour? My husband and I are thinking of taking on next year
I'm 40, born and raised in Italy (Naples)....but living in Austria which is not that far. Everything you described makes me miss Italy every single day. Austrians are very cold and private as people and have no sense of community, I hate it. but here I have 2 kids with my EX and can't really leave them (or bring them with me).
thanks for the video, I hope you continue to enjoy the rest of your retirement in Italy.
I love Italy. Just spent two weeks there and the people were terrific. And the food, gelato, and coffee were even better. It's full of beautiful art, incredible architecture, and very warm people.
Got my juris sanguis citizenship several years ago and finally moved to southern Italy last year. The only question in my mind at this point is why in the world I didn't move sooner? Life has never been so good. Sure, Italy has its share of problems......but it DOESN'T have rampant crime, unsafe streets, insane "woke" culture, elevated cost of living, etc. etc. etc. My family has NEVER been happier.
Where can I learn about juris sanguis citizenship? Specifically, can I qualify and what I would need to do. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
If you have any Italian ancestor, you are entitled.
Search online for the newest information, published or updated in 2023. Make sure you understand all the implications, the pros (second passport, healthcare, etc.) and cons (Italian tax structure and how it applies to you. You have a choice of which country you pay taxes to, but you may have to file in both, depending) of becoming a dual citizen. Here is a link, but there are many others;
info@italiancitizenshipassistance.com
Good Luck!!
As we say in Italy 'Meglio tardi che mai!'. Enjoy your life, God bless you.
Hey. I will be getting mine aa well. What part of italy?
Benvenuti in Italia
Oh man, I’m 70 and am so jealous to hear about so many of the commenters who have done what Chris has. I’ve been to Italy 4 times and absolutely thought every time that I would love to live there! BUT I found the same kind of experiences here in the good ole USA in a very small town in the middle of nowhere Texas where I’m feeling like I’m still living in the 1960’s or 1970’s. I grew up in New York City and moved here from California. The people, slow pace, respectful children, low cost rent or land, everybody knows my name, low taxes and, of course, Medicare. We don’t have Italian food sadly but I am a very good cook and eat Italian 5 nights a week. Just wanted to point out that living inexpensively in America is possible as they are many, many small towns just like mine.
We are happy for you
What town is that?
Listen, If you are happy. That is really all that counts. Chip
Thanks for your vlog and insights into living in Italy. We traveled to Italy from Australia every year since 2002. Last year we retired to Italy and now whilst in our 60s we're beginning our lives all over. We share many of the experiences you described. Our working careers involved 12 hour+ days so stepping into a slower pace of life has been good for us. Something the Italians have perfected. In Australia we'd be handed an invoice from a tradesperson on the spot. In Italy it can take months... people still trust each other. I'm interested in your Private Health Insurance, the cost you mentioned is much lower than what we pay. Maybe you cover this off somewhere? An emerging area of interest to us is co-housing in Italy for retired expats. Imagine a lovely villa divided into independent apartments where the resident community who share common interests fund all the services they need, gardener, housekeeper, possibly a nurse at some stage.. "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" style villa in Italy...La dolce vita!
I’m in!!! I think is a great idea
What a great idea!👏👏
Don't leave me behind!!
Yes, I think that would be a great idea too.
This may be a solution for some. Good Luck with that idea!
I visited Italy and absolutely fell in love with the Italian people
For all those who are concerned about the level of health care in Italy, I would like to say that it is not that they are going to live in Rwanda; Italian hospital and specialty medicine in Italy is at the highest level and we have nothing to learn from the United States, while primary care medicine has some little gaps and delays in responding to patients: it used to be second in Europe, but today it needs to be revisited and improved.
Little gaps,I think it’s a bit more complicated the medical personnel is being attacked by angry patients .The emergency department is so overwhelmed 2/3 days wait for a room people actually passed away while waiting I lived it no doctors they are so underpaid it’s awful.
Chip and I both have to say that that is not our experience.
Couldn't agree more. Me and my family lived there for 7 years and just returned to USA about a year ago. I am struggling with the "reverse culture shock" here - and yes it is a thing. Prices of everything here, food, gas, rent, etc is ridiculous! Not to mention the rat race mentality! But the most important things that you touched on are the pace of life and the quality of the relationships there. Even after a year, I am still chatting with my Italian friends "back home" almost on a daily basis. Looking to retire in the next 10 years, and going "home" is the number one priority. Interested in learning where you settled down in - which region?
Sorry you are struggling and I hope you can return.. Chip
We live in Rieti province
Food for thought indeed. I studied abroad in Firenze for a year in 1998, after having spent 3 years in college learning Italian - love of the language was the reason I went, but ended up absolutely in love with the people, the culture, and the landscape, too. I miss it terribly! I'm 54 now and the cost of healthcare here in the US is ridiculous and out of control, and we don't have a lot for retirement. I hadn't thought about this as an option... hmm.
Please, do not think...too long; act ...to be happy(er)!!! I am Canadian, happy to be and yet....it sounds BEAUTY-full! (makes me think!) ;) helene
My friend just do it ! I have lived in California for the past 37 years this place has gone down so incredibly I can't describe it. Just pack and go.!
I fell in love with Italy as a teenage exchange student fifty years ago. I fell in love with Italy for all the reasons you mention. La vita e dolce in Italia!
The move to Italy is back on! Thank you!
i also moved to Italy and you are right about everything you mentioned,my rent for 2 bedroom house is 250 a month,health care is free because i got my italian citizenship from my mom.Italy is a wonderful place to live in and explore
what part are you in?
Abruzzo
Italy's wonderful ... we bought a house in Calabria 12 years ago and have enjoyed the treasured connections we've made with the people in our community. We're still splitting our time between California and Italy, but especially now, prices of everything except gas is much less than in California. I get free health care in Italy (thanks to my property investment business there) vs. $1K/month in California).
Hi, Super Savvy: Glad you are watching, and thanks for the info. True: living in Italy is less expensive, but of more importance to us, it has a better lifestyle. Chip
My husband is Italian; born and raised in Corigliano Calabro providence of Cosenza. He has all his family there. We plan to retire in Italy.
Taxes are much higher in Italy. You are paying for your healthcare through them. It isn't free.
@@davidlynch9049 Truth. Unless you are poor in retirement, it's expensive regarding their taxes on your savings/retirement. My brother in law has told me the high tax includes the healthcare cost for residents.
Did you have a hospitalization recently and what was your experience. Curious about the difference
I'm 38 yrs old now and i know i will not be able to retire or want to retire here in the US. So, i want and bought place in Spain this year. After i visited Spain i felt strong connection to the culture and the easy going life style and enjoyed the weather and everything. Also i realized that waiting until i retire to buy place won't be wise since i already see the movement of alot of Americans, Canadians, Brits, Germans, and Scandinavians who are on the move to Spain and Portugal and Italy.
Where in Spain are you?
@@gloriasaliba3395 Alicante
My wife and I have that project. We are borne and rised in Argentina with italian ancestors, but I havent choose a city yet. Thanks for your advices
Italy is by far my favourite country outside of Australia
We also left crazy-land and moved to Italy (it's so true about the dry cleaning person) we have store here we call the "Two Sisters" and if you forgot your money, you're still good to go and they don't care so much about the money as they do the relationship with you. Bravo
Thank you for watching. Chip
Greetings from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺 adore all aspects of the Italian culture have travelled to Italy numerous times I’m keen to travel to Puglia next year
This just what I needed to hear I visited on my 50th birthday as a gift to myself and fell in love with all things Italy and planning on moving there when I’m retired thanks for the information 🥂
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching!
i'm only 32, but about a year ago my sister brought getting our dual citizenship in Italy. ever since then my plan has been to buy a home and eventually retire with my family to Italy. My sister has lived in italy but ive never been, but i just had a feeling it was the place i needed to end up. You're video just confirmed the feeling that i had! i'm so excited to continue working toward this goal.
Buona fortuna!
Let nothing stop you. Chip
I’m 50 years old and am contemplating relocating to Italy when I turn 56, upon my retirement. I’m curious to know which village or province you reside in. I truly appreciate the fantastic video; it was incredibly informative. I believe my motivations for moving to Italy will align with yours.
I am a spaniard naturalized American citizen. I love my native country but Healthcare there is not what Americans are used too. It is rationed in Spain if you get national Healthcare. Waiting lists are long to see a doctor and to get diagnostic tests. Particularly if you choose to live in a small to medium sized town. Lots to consider before you decide to move
Totally agree! Things are much too expensive for the average retiree in the USA! I’m heading to Italy or France for sure. Buying a property all cash so I can reduce monthly expenses overall. Cheap and nice property is available - not in Paris or Rome, but in other parts of these beautiful countries. Check it all out!! Get to know other Americans interested in living abroad via International Living webinars and in person seminars/events. I found many resources for real estate online in English or auto-translated. And there’s a cottage industry helping Brits and other English speakers relo to France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Latin America may also be an option. Trains and public transit it Europe is absolutely fantastic. Clean, fast, on time and easy.
I would recommend you to Stay away from France. they are about to fall apart.
It is right for basically anyone, anywhere. It is so Affordable, with no valid reason, and offers more than Anyplace in my humble opinion. So you are a good, lucid person, with correct recognition. Your words in this video bare that out precisely. Congrats to you on being a Winner in life. When you make good decisions you generally get rewarded. Enjoy Sir. God Bless.
Thanks for the information. Yes the US is expensive to live in, yes it's money first but it's where my roots are. My kids are, and my grandkids are. I worked until 64 and saved enough for a good retirement. But I wish you and your wife the best in Italy.
My wife and I are planning our first ever trip to Europe she’s retired I’m closed to so this video comes with perfect timing thank you 🙏🏼
Best of luck!
My grandparents were born in Sicily, and my brother and I are working on our Italian citizenship right now.
Very enlightening vid, We love Italy, however family and grandchildren keep us here!
I've traveled to Italy twice. My favorite country by far. Subscribed.
just returned from Italy as a tourist but would like to explore the inland areas and by listening to Chip want to move there - well done
Thank you for watching
I love love Italia and so looking forward in spending more time there either in Calabria or other regions. I love the fresh food and their culture and their gorgeous landscape and art. I will have a pension and my health care is set. Not sure how that will work in Europe or will I have to pay since not in the USA. I envy you. Thank you for your informative vid. La vita è bella.
I’m so glad I found your channel. I’m about 15 years from even considering retirement, and everything you’ve said already points to the need to leave America with its sole focus on the almighty dollar. I’m watching, keep it coming!
Thank you!
Thanks so much Chip. My husband I just came back from our 2nd trip to Italy in ten years. We are about to retire. What a thoughtful discussion you've provided. You have sparked a true interest as we absolutely love where we live here, in the hills of Northern California, but the idea of a simpler, more affordable lifestyle is enticing. Thanks so much.
I agree with your assessment of the financial advantage of retiring in Italy. I retired in in 2019 because I knew I could never enjoy the same quality of life in the Bay Area. I loved the Bay Area but I would never afford to buy it rent once I was no longer getting a paycheck. I do miss the diversity of people and food as well as the cool weather of San Francisco but that is what yearly visits are for.
After living in SF and Marin for 30 years, I am glad I left the hell hole 10 years ago.
I get it. We are glad we left, too. Chip
I’ve so often heard that it can be frustrating to live in Italy because you need to “know someone” in order to get anything done. I’m happy to hear that you haven’t had to deal with that. Which area of the country do you live in?
WE live near Rieti and have made wonderful Italian friends. Chip
It's a stereotype, and stereotypes are based on half truths.
I mean, nepotism is a world issue, not only in Italy. Lets' say if you a retired you don't have such an issue too much because you don't have to deal with the world of work. Anyway, if you need something and you have a friend who has that "something" you need, it happens you came fisrt because you're a friend. This doesn't mean you cannot get what you need if you don't know anyone, you get it just later than the friend.
Great video. I and my wife are from southern Brazil (lots of german and italian immigration influences), she is an "oriundi", so in 2018 she got her Italy "citadinanza" recognized. I used to fly to some italian destinations (as a corporate jet pilot, until 2012) and always loved the experience. Even the people who work at the FBOs (fixed base operators) at the airports were usually kinder with foreigners. We could move in the future, too. Not yet a decision, but definitely one of our first options.
😎🍷🍕🇮🇪 🇧🇷
Yup. Headed there too. Ancestry and the dream of slowing things down, eating, drinking and living well. Keys to a long happy life.
Glad to hear it, Angelo. Best of luck! Chip
A retired expat living in Sicily. On the whole I can say it’s been a great decision. The only drawback is the incredible hassle dealing with residency and tax issues.
I couldn't agree more! Chip
You can eat anytime you want in Spain. People eat at ten at night but that doesn't mean you can't eat earlier.
I just returned from a 2 week tour of Italy and Sicily and decided I’d like to live there. I’m so glad I found your channel!
Good luck to you!
Thank you for a great video! I’m certainly considering Italy for my retirement. I was lucky enough to have lived in Italy from 1987-1990. It was incredible.
Glad it was helpful!
New subscriber here. My wife just dropped this idea on me a few weeks ago and I’m still processing. I was happily living here never thinking about leaving Oregon. She said that she’s getting her citizenship because her grandparents were Italian and she wants to move there. I was looking for reasons not to go, but watching this video with you, I am now thinking maybe she has something. Selling everything I’ve spent my entire life getting kinda freaks me out but maybe she’s not looney 😉
Thank you for posting
Dear Super Dave, listen carefully to your wife... I believe very much in gut instinct. I also believe that when we challenge ourselves, we become better people. I have an inexpensive group who can help your wife find her ancestry and get her citizenship should she qualify.. Let me know at info@thelaughingretirment if I can help. We also have a retirement event on the 25th of March with SS, Medicare, Retiring overseas, and finances in retirement all for $29.95. Live with Q&A at the end, recorded so you can watch later if you want/need to. Let me know. C
@@thelaughingretirement4714 I'm 72 and ready to move to Italy. My grandpa was from Genoa and would like to get my citizenship too. Can you help me please? I heard on the internet Piedmont was beautiful. My grandpa was born in a city in Sites but went to work in Genoa. I'd appreciate your help very much.
I have an inexpensive group who can help find her ancestry and get her citizenship should she qualify.. Let me know at info@thelaughingretirment if I can help.
Thank you for sharing. Italy is where I want to retire with my amazing husband. America isn't the same. It's become quite alarming and scary. I look forward to making the move as soon as we can.
You can do it! But do your research to find the best lifestyle that you want to co-create.
Hello all, I’m a new subscriber; looking to retire there this year or early next! I’ve done a lot of research. I am Italian-my father is Northern and my mother is Sicilian- I have spent time in Italy, mostly Tuscany, and love it there! Alfredo, everything you say is spot on!! Grazie!
If you can go to Italia with enough money you are golden, especially in the south! The most important thing is learning the language or dialect of the area you want to move too. I am 48 and live and work in Stamford ,Connecticut,just outside of NYC metro area. I am counting the days down too when i have enough saved to move to the place my people left 100 years ago, Benevento and Salerno. When the south was going through very tough times. Greedy landowners, invasions,earthquakes,wars, northern aggression were all some reasons almost half of the south migrated too and came back or immigrated and stayed for good. Mainly to Argentina,Brazil America,Canada and Australia . Italia is much different today, now migrants try to get in not leave .. This is all good informative advice. Thank you , grazie !
Great job Alfredo! Come also to Poland - live and people here are also great!!! 🎉
Yeah, I will be moving there here in the next 10 years or so.
This is a great video. It's true, their lifestyle and priorities are very different from North America.
We also retired in Italy (Trieste) and I echo everything this guy is saying. Today we went to our bar on the beach where we usually hang out, and the owner knew the name of our son who came to visit and whom the owner met only once a few days ago. Drinks? 10.5, but it became ten (that's for a cocktail, a glass of white wine and a soft drink). Yesterday in our favorite restaurant the waiter greeted us with a hug. Lavish dinner for four (first some fried fish, then four large appetizers incl. two phenomenal crudos, then swordfish pasta, then main fish course, then dolce, espresso, and limitless grappa - two bottles left on the table for self-service, plus 3 bottles of wine) - 350eur, which was immediately discounted to 280eur. Ah, forgot, each person got a demi-bottle of wine to take home!
Thanks for sharing. Sounds like a wonderful meal and a wonderful time was had by all but I just want to say that that kind of meal is usually a birthday or special occasion for Italians. My wife's favorite all time wine cost 2.00 euros per bottle which she buys from an old vintner, who bottles it right from his big vat. Many would not think it was very good, but wine without chemicals is her idea of nectar of the Gods.
Congratulations! I love Italy and have Italian roots.
Thank you for watching
10-23-23
7:50
San Diego, Ca
Hello Alfredo,
Thank you for your video. I enjoyed watching your video and your comments. I would love to move to Italy and for all the reasons you mentioned. I have been to Italy five times. Our last visit was in September and we were on the east side of the peninsula. Absolutely loved it.
Glad to have you join and enjoy our channel. I hope you will subscribe. We have more to come and a whole section on finances. Chip
I would be interested to know exactly where you retired in Italy. Lived in Naples for 6 years and there are a few things that some would cringe at. I would be very hesitant to have any medical procedures done there. If you have to stay in a hospital, do not expect the same care you get in the US. It is required that your family/friends provide ancilliary care for the patient. You are constantly aware of your surroundings. Theft is rampant in the Southern part of Italy. Driving was fun.....an experience everyone should be a part of. You are right about the friendliness of the Italians. They will bend over backwards to help you out. However, with some that comes at a price. Quid pro quo. But some say that Naples is not part of Italy. They don't recognize anything south of Rome. I have spoken of the experience I had there. Naples is a different animal. You may think that I absolutely hated being there, but I would not have traded my experience there for anything in the world. I just wanted to point out that not all of Italy is a bed of roses.
I had multiple opportunities to go to Italy with my grandfather during the summers. I never did, and I really regretted that. My mother had an aunt that had a condo in Firenze and there was an open invitation to come and stay whenever we wanted ... none of us did ... and I really regret that too. Now that I am retired and retiring in the US doesn't look that great, I am really interested in making that move. I do have a basic command of the language ... it's the language that was usually spoken in our home when I was growing up. Thanks for your videos, I enjoy them.
Steve, did you make the move to Italy?
Loved the video no BS honest straight to the point i missed the boat at 88 years living in Ireland hate the awful weather bad government high prices at least i can smile that you made it im in your FB page ,Thank you.
Hi David, We considered Ireland and it was one of our 5 semifinalist countries. We went to imagine what life would be like there and had one of the most wonderful mini retirement vacations there when we were choosing countries. We love the Irish people, but for the rain and some other reasons, it didn't make our top 3 list. THanks for watching!
Love your videos Chip! Thank you for being so honest and genuine, and glad to hear you are enjoying your retirement in Italy! Although I have many years to go until retirement, as a dual US / Italian citizen, I plan to move to Italy as well for retirement. So your videos are helping me plan!
Let's hope that, in time, you get to live your dream!
Oddly, this video brought me to tears... and I'm not the crying type. Subscribed.
Thanks so much 🙏, Every word is music to my ears! See you around , hopefully soon!😊
My dad moved there thirty years ago and never regretted it. A home on the beach in San Terenzo.
You said very important thing, IT IS A FEELING
Where you feel best, happy and comfortable
This is exactly what I feel when I travel to Italy
Amazing culture and hopefully I can move there as well at some point!
Great video and amazing explanation that is true and simple
I've been living in Thailand nearly 16 years, glad you're happy in Italy but I've been all over Europe and no doubt I could afford to live there any more than I could the states.
Confused! I watched "Get the Margarita" on RUclips which is a young lady from Canada that lives in Paris. She recently did a video about her trip to Italy and the Italian's couldn't have been more rude and less helpful. I would love to hear your impression of her video because it really made me think twice about visiting or moving there.Thanks!
Wow this is some advert for living in Italy. Wonderfully communicated 👌🏻
Its not an advertisement, its mostly just our personal experience. Of course, there is no perfect country. Living in every country has its own advantages and disadvantages and comes with set of "idiosyncrasies", but for us, for now its a nice fit.
Omg I LOVE Italy! Everything you say is sooo True! I studied a semester there and have visited three times since and I truly feel I must have been Italian in a previous life! I really hope i can retire there as well 😃 Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching
You are right, but you can do even better. I am living in the very center of Velletri now, a town in the Roman Castles, 40 minutes train ride from Rome. Wonderful hills and mountain trails all around. A good train station connected to Rome. 25 minutes (train ride) from Ciampino airport, which has direct flights to NYC. Every service available (groceries, discount groceries, pizzerias, Italian end ethnic restaurants (even Indian) in walking distance. The rent is 400 Euros per month with a 4 + 4 years Italian style contract. 200 mq (2000 square feets) home, with 2 bathrooms and 5 rooms. There is a public hospital and countless private facilities and I don't need a car. Off course, if you need company better to look otherwise in places like Philippines, Thailand and so on. But if you came with a girlfriend or a wife, Europe is the best place to live.
Maxsszz, thanks for the comment. You are correct in everything you say. We started at 400 a month in rent and wanted a larger independent home. Great comment. Thanks Chip
in the Castelli Romani? Is it near Monte Porzio Catone, off the Via Casilina?
@@praisegod3768 Yes, is one of the Roman Castles. It's 30 miles south of Rome, at the end of Via dei Laghi, after Rocca di Papa and Nemi.
I was born in Velletri. Beautiful place. You should consider to buy a little car or a motorbike to explore around. You have the beach at less than 50km away, some wonderful volcanic lakes at 10km (Nemi, Albano), a mountain range with forests at 15km (Monti Lepini), a plateau where horses for the italian national horse team are trained (Pratoni del Vivaro) at 6km, in a chestnut tree forest that is also a mushroom paradise. All this in a place surrounded with wonderful little towns with over than 3000 years of history.
"if you need company better to look otherwise in places like Philippines, Thailand and so on"
In other words, better to target poor, desperate women? Disgusting.
Thank you for this video so informative. I have friend's that are Italian I so much admire their culture and lifestyle. You are corrext unlike us in America their food is freshly made.
I will begin to start looking to purchase in italy this year god willing🙏🏼
0:24: I’d move to Umbria or Toscana in a minute. Both wonderful places.
I’m Italian from a small town in Lombardy, Tuscany and Umbria are the places where I dream to live
@@simplymilla Lombardy region is beautiful, yes? Lake Como? What's the appeal in Tuscany/Umbria over Lombardy? Weather? People? Thanks for your post.
Chip , Ciao . Awesome video , I had the opportunity to play baseball in Italy 🇮🇹 for two years . 1st year for the team of Roma & lived in Anzio , next year played for Anzio & lived there also . Beautiful country & people & the food is to die for . Looking to visit there again soon , have a friend that played baseball there for Nettuno for 15 years & married am Italy woman from Nettuno , still lives there . My Grandfather is from Villa Santa Maria ( Abuzza ) . Be well & safe . 👍⚾️🇮🇹
New subscriber here too 😃
I am 52 and in US very few people can retire at this age . Still kind of option to move to a different country in the future is something I am interested in.
Being full Italian with two sets of Italian grandparents, I consider a move to Italy.Have two cousins there. Have U.S. family, but for years I have felt a foreigner and now with the expenses rising and retired, except for being an author who doesn’t make $$$. All that is missing is a companion to be with me to enjoy this wonderful country.
Thanks for the info, for sharing your story, experience. I know if I were young I’d be seriously considering emigration. And not only because of the high cost of living in the U.S. Let’s face it, the country’s a mess and the next ten, twenty , maybe fifty years, barring some miracle, it’s only going to be worse. But I am retired now - and kind of stuck. One is the health situation. We have Medicare and a good supplement. Overseas? Anywhere else, it’s starting all over with the medical. And where we intend to go, while sure cheaper, well they got all kinda problems too - and I can’t even get a resident visa, the system backed up right now for the pandemic and for their own immigration mess. . But you’ve given me a boost, a desire to really check into ….. Thanks again!
Please talk a bit about the visa needed, taxes and your overall impression of healthcare there. Loved your content a lot!
Joan, I will be happy to. Please give me a bit of time. Thanks Chiop
@@infothelaughingretirement3008 Yes, I'm sure a lot of people are interested in the healthcare.
I cant afford to retire in the UK. I will have to work until they carry me out on a gurney! I have looked at many countries but Italy looks the most friendly glorious people! Thank You for your video.
Nice video and thank you for the nice words about Italy.
You are very welcome! Chip
Stumbled upon this… so good
Gee thanks for watching
Really enjoyed the video. My wife and I may retire overseas after she retires from her US govt job (about 9 more years). I retired from the U.S. military in 2014. We’ve never been to Italy, but have visited Spain…and we were stationed overseas in Okinawa, Japan and Panama; and posted to embassies in 2 West African countries.
Dear MR, glad you liked the video Chip
Thank You for this insightful information. I would like and need as much information as possible. Everything is so hectic knowing the United States now and it’s not getting any better.
I look for honesty within people and communities. Unfortunately that’s not the situation today . So much deception and shady dealings. I’ve started on this journey looking and researching trying to figure out but there is always one coming in THATS better than before. What makes your story stand out is loyalty, honesty, and just plain sincerity. Thank you and your wife for doing this research... for the rest of us in society who are confused and still searching.
Good luck on your search, and thanks for watching!
I go to Calabria in the summers and a kilo of fruits or vegetables in the open market can be less than one Euro. My sister in law from Milan rents and spends her summers in Trontano near the Swiss border for 500. per month however the food is more expensive there.
I am pleased for you, I hope you enjoy in good health.
Love your videos and great information, we’re looking to retire abroad as well. We love Italy as well
Great vídeo! I ll be retired in three years. Although I live confortable here, in South Brazil and we have some small/medium cities very attactive - even have an european look - the World have more to offer. I have Italian citzenship, have not visit Italy yet, but I ve been in Portugal a couple years Ago and felt in love for the coutry. Recently, I went to London and Paris and felt the same for France. Before make my decision I want to travel the whole Mediterrranean Coast, from Portugal to Turkey, passing thru Italy and visiting the cities where my grand parents came from: Caserta and Vallata.
I can afford to be retired in the US financially, I can’t afford to be retired here mentally, emotionally or politically. Just escaping the gun violence would be enough. Plus, it’s where all my grandparents are from.
Joseph, ypu may qualify fir citizenship if you are interested I have a link...write me at info@thelaughingretirement.com Best Chip
Exactly.
I agree, the gun culture here in the U.S. is out of control.
L'Italia é meravigliosa! Auguri e buona fortuna! That was a great move Mr. Alfredo... I'm slowly working my way to retirement and at 57 I'm starting to do my resarch with Portugal first, even though I'm an Italian citizen... Unfortunately not with a lot of resources though... let's see what the future brings. Maybe I'll ultimately wind up landing in the place my parents came from. Thanks for sharing!
Chip, I was very impressed with your video. I've traveled to Italy at least a dozen times since 2005. I have stayed for a minimum of a month to the max of 3 months for each trip. I've traveled the entire country and all three big islands (Sicily, Sardinia and Capri). I love Italy, it's people, it's culture, the countryside, history, food and more. I've worked at a B&B/Winery (volunteered😊) and I've gone to school there to learn Italian. I'm single, 61 and like you, sick of my pension going to health insurance and renting/ leasing. I am so ready for the "Dolce far niente" part of my life. I have 2 locations narrowed down to live.
Do you have a recommendation of what is the best way to make this big move? I shutter at the red tape associated with this kind of thing. I'm all ears! You have my undivided attention!
Robert, send me an email on info@thelaughingretirement.com. Reference this note on the video. Also, look at the Utube video about visas.... that will help our conversation. Also, you might look at the international living magazine, where I have a number of articles about Italy.... in the email please tell me the two areas you are looking at. chip
Chip, I sent you the email as you requested but nothing from you yet. I fully understand you are busy. When you are free, I will be waiting
Hi Robert. I was wondering which two locations you narrowed your search down to, and why. Any insights into your priorities and selections would be appreciated if you have some time. Thanks
@@Dolcefarniente707Hi robert! Which places in Italy did you narrow it down and why?
@nadiabispo5982 I chose Castiglione del Lago in Umbria because it is a great town, in an old walled city on the lake. It has a train station and you can see Tuscany from there. I also chose Bellano on Lake Como. It has a train station, mountains to hike, a boat ferry terminal and while it is on the lake and right next door to Varenna, it is not a big tourist draw, AND, because it's on the East side of the lake and situated perfectly, it had the best sunset views on the lake IMHO
Chip, is American retirement income and social security taxed in Italy on a retirement elective visa?
Hi Chip! So good to see you here, looking and sounding awesome as usual! ❤
Great video. thank you