Glad to know there are intelligent and personable Americans living in Portugal. We are making plans to join you there if the US doesn’t self destruct before we get out.
@@YogaBlissDance not as pretty as Tuscany, but it's really beautiful! Emilia Romagna is similar too, cheaper than Florence but more expensive than Umbria
Hii! I will be studying in Lecce next year, can you please tell me more about the life there? It’s a small town, are there any activities during the year?
Very interesting video, I must applaud Jay for his courage and move. It's not easy to to move to another country with a completely different culture.amf way of life. A family friend of mine of Italian heritage, has just moved to Lecce from South Africa and loves it. All the best Jay.
I very much enjoyed your interview. Would you please provide the name/ contact for the cultural immersion program you attended in Lecce? Thank you and best wishes .
Hi, I logged back in to respond to your question. Yes, please continue if it’s possible. There is much value to your interviews. Given the current climate in the US, I believe many of us will begin new life options abroad. Thank you for all that you provide!
I randomly came across this video and I was so pleased by it. Nice interview and James is really welcome here 🇮🇹🥂 I'm from the North-East of Italy but I know the Puglia region, it's beautiful. Wish him all the best 'cause he looks like a nice, smart and caring person.
I spent a month in Italy in 2019. Stayed in Puglia for a week and visited Lecce. Beautiful city, had an amazing meal and some of the best gelato. Thanks for these interviews!
But how did the people treat you, Fists Up? I was told by a number of people that Italy and Spain are the most racist nations against Black people in all of Europe. What was your experience like in Italy?
@@masterprophet8378 Im Italian and I can tell you Italians are racist only against specific groups of people, skin color doesnt matter, and it changes wildly depending on the political climate. You shouldnt have problems if you're American.
@@Raziel.82 , and Accendino, what about the documentarys and news interviews I've seen with my own eyes about Blacks being physically attacked and called "monkeys" and other kinds of derogatory names in Italy by Italians?
Another terrific interview. It really is cool to virtually meet people who have made these types of moves, who come at their unique experiences, from different perspectives. Where they are from, what their life back in North America might have been like, what drove them to their destination and how they got through the hurdles. Love Love Love these! xx
What a great interview.Thank you looking to move out of the States. Been traveling in the past 4 years and trying to make a decision for Spring next year hopefully.
For Americans: consider also that, in Italy, healthcare is FREE. So, you can forget about medical insurance and be afraid to be in debt if you will ever need hospitalization or surgery of any kind! You can, of course, go to private doctors if you want things done a little bit quicker, but the costs is not even close to what it would be in the States. For example, I usually go to a private dentist to have a check up and clean my teeth. Cost? 70 euros (around 85 dollars).
The healthcare is not free but it is significantly less than what I paid in the US. I just signed up for the tessera sanitaria. It was less than €400 for the year.
@@jamesstewart59 of course of course. The bad part of that is 67% ( on the rise ) of fiscal pressure with 22%VAT. Plus , i don't know if you are into italian politics, but with Mario Draghi as the head of the next government ( he is an ex BCE, ex Goldman Sachs etc etc .... basicaly a banker or worst a bureaucrats ), italian healthcare will be UNFORTUNATELY privatized.
The same doctors that provide excellent healthcare in the national health system during the day also offer private, fee based care in the evenings. It's your choice. I use both systems. Anything private and fee based is more than affordable out of pocket. We have great doctors, dentists and healthcare in Italy.
Nope it's not, some Visas are eligible for an automatic sign up to the NHS or at a reduced rate of 400€/year (iscrizione obbligatoria) If you are not eligible you pay: 7,5% for 0-20.658€ of annual income 4% for the part 20.658-50.645€ of your annual income. This is called iscrizione volontaria. In any case the maximum payment for accessing healthcare is 2750€ and not less than 387€. Just because we nationals get it paid by taxes doesn't mean that it is all free especially for foreigners.
Thank you for posting this. I fell in love with Italy in 2018 and definitely transitioning into a new chapter of my life. Great interview and informative.
Good and useful interview about moving to a part of Italy. Good work and all the best to James. Lecce is a beautiful place, full of history like all of Italy.
I absolutely love your Experiences Living Abroad series--it's inspiring, it's causing me to soul search, and I thank you so much for the content--the interviews are impactful and very informational for those of us thinking about becoming an expat. Thank you!
That was another very interesting interview.. another perspective.. the common theme is life is short and if there is something in your heart.. just do it... love that!!!
I just booked a month in Lisbon in June next year.. it’s seems to be a nice Airbnb in Principe Real and the price was fantastic.. I Hope it will be ok to travel.. hope we can meet. I’m so excited to take a second look at Portugal!!!!
I can completely relate to his explanation of how his views on life changed after leaving the country. I'm planning on buying a house in Italy and spent 3.5 years traveling around Europe, Africa and SE Asia June 2017-Aug 2020 (covid brought me back to the US). My quality of life definitely improved and I appreciate the slower pace of life. Much less stress.
This was something I needed to hear. Simple yet profound words of wisdom from this wonderful interview! What a wonderful man, with courage to jump into his dream. Life is short, do the things you really want to do. This is so easily forgotten or goes unprocessed when we hear it. Today I heard it. Excellent questions! Rich answers! Bravo! Thank you!
I stumbled across this interview and found it really informative. My partner and I have a place in Lecce and we are planning on spending a lot more time there this year. Would love to meet up with Jay and other expats living there.
This is a great video. I am also from South Carolina's low country like Jay, and work in IT. I went on a business trip to Sicily in 2019 and absolutely loved it. It was my intentions to spend 2020 as my prep year to move there in 2021. However, covid happened and now I am shooting for 2023 as my move date. I am no where near retirement age, but with IT I could work remotely. Also, thankfully my mom has at this time agreed to move with me. So, I don't have that to worry about. This video was very helpful! Thank you both for sharing.
I've been exploring how to get there part-time and then, if it feels right, to retire there. Rentals look excellent...I was looking at immersion language study, but now I'm going to check out the 10 euro classes. Fabulous! Such great information and you seem so happy!
I love Italy very much and when I was there didn't even feel like I was in a foreign country although speaking Italian helped a lot. Happy and sunny days to Jay ...
I love these interviews and would like to see more! I can't get to Portugal yet, but these videos are keeping my motivation high. The energy that expats have, especially black expats, is really inspirational.
Your interviews are great and soooo helpful. I resonated with Jay, as I am from Los Angeles and just a few years younger. I plan to reach out to him on IG for more info. You are making my future transition easier. Thank you!
So grateful to see this video! My spouse and I are considering retiring in the Sorrento area and it's helpful to hear positive vibe-related stories! Thank you both!
Super interesting interview ! James, if you ever come to Parma I just want to let you know that you're invited to have a glass of Lambrusco ! Best wishes, glad you moved here (:
Hello Just found this video so lovely. My home town is 40 km from Lecce and cannot wait to return home as i am currently abroad in a very cold climate, so i understand perfectly Jay s need for warmth. I have spent most of my adult life in Puglia so i am well aware of the pros and cons but ultimatey the pros win. Hope to meeting Jay some day and thank you for your kind words about my beautiful country.
Another great interview! Jay’s story resonated and reminded me of me😊! (Female version of course!) Being from Los Angeles and coupled with my previous European travel many years ago, I long to return to “my home” across the ocean. Recently retired and looking for that place I can live well on with what I have.🤔 I will soon be taking the leap. I had not heard of Lecce, will take a peek at it, since Italy is my dream location. Btw Jay seems like a sweetheart of a man. 😘 Thanks for the information!
I loved this interview, I am glad you found someone who is retired. I will be retiring soon and it gives me another place to check out in Europe. I loved Spain and hated that I did not make it to Portugal. Next time, I'll make the rounds. Like Jay weather is very important to me. I want a mild climate in a walkable neighborhood.
Correction, depends on the following vowel. The Italian "cc" is the English "Ch" "ca", "cu" and "co" sounds like the English "ca", "cu" and "co". "ce" and "ci" sounds like the English "che" and "chi" "che" and "chi" sounds like the English "ce" and "ci" consider the different sounds for the vowels.
Thanks again for another great interview/conversation. I love that you have guests from different age group and that they’re at different stages of life. I am a retiree and I was planning to spend a few months in Portugal during this past Canadian winter. I would love to pack up and move there permanently if it wasn’t for other family ties here in Canada. Like you, I am somewhat of an introvert until I feel comfortable with the people around. I am not the first one to initiate a conversation. I became aware of the virus since last December and decided to put my plans on hold. I am now feeling trapped for I have not been able to leave Canada to go anywhere besides shopping for life’s necessities. I was there in Portugal, February, 2019. I did a 2 weeks tour from Lisbon to Porto and another week in Maderia. I love the people, their way of life and yes, good food. The fish soup was my favourite. Still dreaming of Portugal🤩
I have a suggestion. You should look into a month long cultural immersion class in Portugal when travel is allowed again. One program I considered before I found out about Learning Italian in Lecce was EF Courses Abroad. I think there are other similar introductory immersion course available.
Jay Stewart Thanks, that’s a great idea. I have tried a Portuguese language class here in Canada. It’s a very difficult language to learn, especially at my advanced age.
Esther De Souza I know what you mean about learning a new language in an advanced age. I just turned 61 and I find learning Italian to be difficult. Words don’t stick with me yet. I will continue to try because life is so much richer when you can communicate with the local people.
He seems like such a nice guy and I really enjoy these interviews! Very informative and I’m looking forward to your next one should you choose to do so
I appreciate these interviews and just your channel as a whole. They resonate with the boho girl in me who just wants to wander off from the rat race routine. You show me its possible. Thank you!
Yes! I needed this one the most. Who knows where things are headed for the US passport, but I am still believing I'll get to retire in Tuscany. Thank you for this interview.
Really pleasant interview. I have to say my mom is also 94 and my responsibility up until another family member stepped in. Like Shanna, I had to let go and live my life. I’m committed to a year or two teaching in N. California, putting my property in order, but enjoying all the stories and adventures of the single people who just did it!
What a great interview. We are in The Bay Area, my wife is from Berlin and we are thinking of moving back to Europe at some point. Great interview work much appreciated. Thx
I lived the last twenty years in Santa Barbara,CA....But last spring I spend a week in Lecce and really liked it there. Now I am considering to "retire" there and paint fine art.....It has really great natural light to paint!
Here in south Italy we dream to go to California one day, and instead people from LA come here to live! Glad to have you in our Lecce, James! I wish you the best stay, and i guarantee you that when covid will be over, you'll live the city in a more intense and powerful way.
Thanks for your great interview. I retired at 52 and live in the Province of Tarragona, Spain. I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. I do not miss the US at all. I moved here with my two children in 2010 to escape all of the violence and crimes there. We can walk anywhere here and not have to look over our shoulders to feel safe. The food here is fresh and healthier (no GMO foods), the Mediterranean water is clean, clear and warm. We also have free healthcare with only pennies for prescription drugs. We ever looked back. Hopefully, more Americans will make the jump living in Europe. The cost of living here is much more affordable than in the US as well.
Congrats on your move Jay! I'm preparing for a move to Italy in the next 3 years (would like to get a property first). I'm a Dutch citizen living in Virginia, so some things will hopefully be a little easier as a European. Tips are welcome!
I really enjoyed learning about Jay’s experience. I too was born and raised in the south and ultimately moved to Los Angeles. I’ve visited Italy 3 times - the last time was for a month - we rented a castle near Perugia (it took 20 of us to pay for it!) and that was quite a luxurious experience. My goal is to retire to Italy soonish so I’m hoping Jay is willing to be a pen pal! I’ll reach out to him on FB or IG! Thanks so much for this valuable information.
Thanks for this interview. Really helped in building confidence to make the leap. Especially about learning the language and meeting people. That’s always the big hurdle! I❤️Italy and hope to spend extended time there exploring possibilities.
Wow. Great interview! Very inspirational. I'm glad I stumbled on your channel. I also live in DC, and while I love it here, I've been getting urges to move abroad for awhile.
It's good to hear James explain how easy it seems. I'm 2 yrs from retirement and I will be alone, my kids are grown. And I am done with winter here in Canada. It was beautiful when I was younger and tougher but.... I'm interested in the immersion course he took with the Aussie/Italian guide. Can you provide it?
James, great video, I’m retiring at 51 in September and I bought tickets to travel to Portugal, Spain and finish in Italy. I have been to Italy twice for 3weeks in 2018 and 2019. Planning on a few nights in or near Lecce. I would love to figure out if I could move to Italy for 6 months a year. Hopefully this covid crap is over by then.
Love the conversation, Jay is such a sweet soul, you can tell from the way he talks and his perspective. I would have liked to see the conversation turn to the subject of racism as well, i've heard of some pretty bad encounters regarding being a visible minority in Italy from foreigners. So i think it's important to address that when it comes to exploring whether you would want to make a move like that especially in Europe.
So far I haven’t seen the racism that I witnessed living in the US. There are many Africans living here and they can be aggressive about selling trinkets to people who are eating and having a conversation. Sometimes they can be very rude with their interruptions. I think this may cause some tensions. I had an issue where many Africans would hang out on the steps to my apartment (because it is shady) and they would drink beer and smoke cigarettes. Many times, I asked them politely to find another place but they always returned. I talked to my landlord and he asked the local police to come by. I noticed that the police talked to the men with dignity. They didn’t threaten them. They talked to them for about 15 minutes and eventually, the Africans left. I don’t noticed them hanging out on my steps anymore and when we see each other around town, we always greet each other. like I said earlier, I haven’t seen the racism that I experienced in the US. I believe that other factors are involved here, like issues related work, money and healthcare.
This was a great interview that was done from a fresh (and refreshing) perspective. I grew up in the DC area, lived in the NYC area, and now live in the Bay Area, CA. My wife and I are growing tired of the stress that comes with the high cost of living and "work, work, work" mentality that exists in all of those places (and the increasing frequency of acts of terror and intimidation perpetrated against people of color in the US). I am also tired of living in fear of encounters with the people who are supposedly paid to "serve and protect" us. We are definitely planning for an early retirement abroad and until recently, hadn't really considered Italy. I had heard that it is expensive, the people aren't super friendly, and as a soccer fan, seeing the videos of soccer fans taunting African players by throwing bananas onto the pitch and mimicking apes and making ape noises at them really turned me off to Italy. But videos like this are changing my mind about Italy and the prospects of retiring there, particularly as a Black American. Our family is planning our first visit to Italy this coming Thanksgiving week (Rome and Florence) to "dip our toes in the water". I realize Rome and Florence are some of the most expensive places in Italy, but I figure you gotta do Rome on your inaugural visit to Italy, right, lol! Anyway, thanks again for the great content. I look forward to watching more of your videos (yes, I subscribed, lol). Cheers!
Thank you. By the way, my first visit to Italy included Rome and Florence but most of my time was spent in the small villages of Tuscany. If you have time, I would highly recommend you visit places that are off the beaten path.
I moved to Italy 21 years ago with an Italian passport. I knew immediately that I would never live anyplace else and definitely never again in the USA where I was born and raised.
love watching your videos-considering Tavira as a place to reside because it is close to Spain and I study Flamenco dancing. My friend and my husband feel that Portugal would be less expensive and safer than Spain. I am a psychotherapist and am trying to find out how I can continue to provide teletherapy living abroad. So many things to research but a good distraction while the US implodes. I feel heartsick at what the US is going through and seriously considering a new way to live.
Hey cinnamon! I stumbled upon your page awhile ago and it has just been such an inspiration for me to make sound decisions for my future, mostly with getting a masters in international studies in Portugal. But just wanna say I enjoy all the interviews and I missed out on the Moving Abroad Summit, will there be a part 2??
If you are looking for awesome food, culture, hot beaches and warm company southern Italy is what you are looking for! I'm from Sicily and I can't stop saying that, for retirement, it's the best place I know so far. Unfortunately, if you need to work I would suggest other places...
George Brill I’m still figuring out the Italian taxes. For me, they won’t be due until next June, so I honestly have not spent the time to figure it out. I plan to hire a tax consultant for at least the first 2 years.
George Brill I still have my retirement going to my American bank. I have a bank account here and I use Schwab to do electronic transfers to my Italian account.
I don't know how I ended up here, but I like this man. Good energy, good vibes. Welcome to Italy 🇮🇹 ❤
Thank you kindly.
Thank you
His smile is just sooo contagious. I'm happy he's here, and I hope he won't regret his decision. Benvenuto!
Thank you and after a year, I have no regrets.
@@jamesstewart59 nice, have a good one!💪🏾😁
Jay,all the people like you, are welcome in Italy
È simpatico, mi piace 👍 Penso si troverà bene qui.
Yes, indeed! He looks like a really nice and sweet person!
Thank you 🙏🏾
Glad to know there are intelligent and personable Americans living in Portugal. We are making plans to join you there if the US doesn’t self destruct before we get out.
Thank you. Look forward to your arrival.
I fell in love with Tuscany and am looking to retire to Italy. This is a great discussion.
Thank you!
Antoinette Ponzo Tuscany is where I fell in love with Italy.
Apparently Umbria is as pretty and much cheaper.
@@YogaBlissDance not as pretty as Tuscany, but it's really beautiful! Emilia Romagna is similar too, cheaper than Florence but more expensive than Umbria
Do you know Verona, the city where I live? Tuscany is too much mainstream and expensive for foreigners
Hi Jay! I live in Lecce and I'm so proud of hearing such enthusiastic words for my city :) see you around then!
Thank you
Hii! I will be studying in Lecce next year, can you please tell me more about the life there? It’s a small town, are there any activities during the year?
@@jamesstewart59 Hi Jay, great video chat, are you still in Lecce, just moved there from Ireland, are there any expats groups that you know of.
Very interesting video, I must applaud Jay for his courage and move. It's not easy to to move to another country with a completely different culture.amf way of life. A family friend of mine of Italian heritage, has just moved to Lecce from South Africa and loves it. All the best Jay.
Thank you
I very much enjoyed your interview. Would you please provide the name/ contact for the cultural immersion program you attended in Lecce?
Thank you and best wishes .
Hi, I logged back in to respond to your question. Yes, please continue if it’s possible. There is much value to your interviews. Given the current climate in the US, I believe many of us will begin new life options abroad. Thank you for all that you provide!
Thank you for your insight Barbara. Much appreciated.
Driven Spice I nominate you to run a culture class for Portugal like the one James spoke about in Lecce.
I randomly came across this video and I was so pleased by it. Nice interview and James is really welcome here 🇮🇹🥂 I'm from the North-East of Italy but I know the Puglia region, it's beautiful. Wish him all the best 'cause he looks like a nice, smart and caring person.
Thank you
I spent a month in Italy in 2019. Stayed in Puglia for a week and visited Lecce. Beautiful city, had an amazing meal and some of the best gelato. Thanks for these interviews!
But how did the people treat you, Fists Up?
I was told by a number of people that Italy and Spain are the most racist nations against Black people in all of Europe.
What was your experience like in Italy?
@@masterprophet8378 Hi, I'm from Lecce and I can assure you that racism does not exist here, especially us in southern Italy.
@@masterprophet8378 Im Italian and I can tell you Italians are racist only against specific groups of people, skin color doesnt matter, and it changes wildly depending on the political climate. You shouldnt have problems if you're American.
@@Raziel.82 , and Accendino, what about the documentarys and news interviews I've seen with my own eyes about Blacks being physically attacked and called "monkeys" and other kinds of derogatory names in Italy by Italians?
@@masterprophet8378 What is the name of this documentary?
Another terrific interview. It really is cool to virtually meet people who have made these types of moves, who come at their unique experiences, from different perspectives. Where they are from, what their life back in North America might have been like, what drove them to their destination and how they got through the hurdles. Love Love Love these! xx
That warms my heart Jen. So glad you're enjoying them.
Driven Spice 💯%
I love that Italy offers classes to people new to the country.
I know right? I thought that was so awesome.
It's the same in Portugal: www.acm.gov.pt/-/como-posso-frequentar-um-curso-de-lingua-portuguesa-para-estrangeiros-
Another great interview. He also has such great energy. Both of you. Thank you for doing these. They inspire us all :)
Thank you so much!
So glad he addressed loneliness and leaving family.
What a great interview.Thank you looking to move out of the States. Been traveling in the past 4 years and trying to make a decision for Spring next year hopefully.
Thank you. So glad you enjoyed it!
For Americans: consider also that, in Italy, healthcare is FREE.
So, you can forget about medical insurance and be afraid to be in debt if you will ever need hospitalization or surgery of any kind!
You can, of course, go to private doctors if you want things done a little bit quicker, but the costs is not even close to what it would be in the States.
For example, I usually go to a private dentist to have a check up and clean my teeth. Cost? 70 euros (around 85 dollars).
healthcare in italy IS NOT FREE. Nothing is free. Healthcare in Italy is paid with TAXES !
The healthcare is not free but it is significantly less than what I paid in the US. I just signed up for the tessera sanitaria. It was less than €400 for the year.
@@jamesstewart59 of course of course. The bad part of that is 67% ( on the rise ) of fiscal pressure with 22%VAT. Plus , i don't know if you are into italian politics, but with Mario Draghi as the head of the next government ( he is an ex BCE, ex Goldman Sachs etc etc .... basicaly a banker or worst a bureaucrats ), italian healthcare will be UNFORTUNATELY privatized.
The same doctors that provide excellent healthcare in the national health system during the day also offer private, fee based care in the evenings. It's your choice. I use both systems. Anything private and fee based is more than affordable out of pocket. We have great doctors, dentists and healthcare in Italy.
Nope it's not, some Visas are eligible for an automatic sign up to the NHS or at a reduced rate of 400€/year (iscrizione obbligatoria)
If you are not eligible you pay:
7,5% for 0-20.658€ of annual income
4% for the part 20.658-50.645€ of your annual income.
This is called iscrizione volontaria. In any case the maximum payment for accessing healthcare is 2750€ and not less than 387€.
Just because we nationals get it paid by taxes doesn't mean that it is all free especially for foreigners.
Thank you for posting this. I fell in love with Italy in 2018 and definitely transitioning into a new chapter of my life. Great interview and informative.
Thank you!
That's an inspiring interview! Welcome to Italy! I deeply admire whoever's able to be master of its own life
Thank you
@@jamesstewart59 let me know should you ever travel to Bologna
Good and useful interview about moving to a part of Italy. Good work and all the best to James. Lecce is a beautiful place, full of history like all of Italy.
I absolutely love your Experiences Living Abroad series--it's inspiring, it's causing me to soul search, and I thank you so much for the content--the interviews are impactful and very informational for those of us thinking about becoming an expat. Thank you!
Thank you so much! So glad you are finding the content helpful.
Another interesting interview. Yay🔥
Thank you!
Watching in 2023. He looks sooooo happy! Thank you for sharing this! This is my year to break free. I can feel it!
Great interview! I lived in northern Italy for 5 years and I loved it! I cannot wait to get back to Italy after I retire. Lo amo l'Italia!
Thank you
What a great interview. Very charming host and guest. Thinking seriously about retiring in Italy, and this gentleman was inspiring. Thanks!
Thank you!
Thank you
That was another very interesting interview.. another perspective.. the common theme is life is short and if there is something in your heart.. just do it... love that!!!
Absolutely! Life is short, follow your heart.
I just booked a month in Lisbon in June next year.. it’s seems to be a nice Airbnb in Principe Real and the price was fantastic.. I Hope it will be ok to travel.. hope we can meet. I’m so excited to take a second look at Portugal!!!!
@@cherylterrell8331 That's so awesome! I love that area too.
I can completely relate to his explanation of how his views on life changed after leaving the country. I'm planning on buying a house in Italy and spent 3.5 years traveling around Europe, Africa and SE Asia June 2017-Aug 2020 (covid brought me back to the US). My quality of life definitely improved and I appreciate the slower pace of life. Much less stress.
💗💗
Lecce has a very beautiful historical centre, that makes difference
This was something I needed to hear. Simple yet profound words of wisdom from this wonderful interview! What a wonderful man, with courage to jump into his dream. Life is short, do the things you really want to do. This is so easily forgotten or goes unprocessed when we hear it. Today I heard it. Excellent questions! Rich answers! Bravo! Thank you!
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed.
Thank you
I live in Italy since 2007,Lecce is one of the best choise for cost of living......good luck!!!!
I stumbled across this interview and found it really informative. My partner and I have a place in Lecce and we are planning on spending a lot more time there this year. Would love to meet up with Jay and other expats living there.
This is a great video. I am also from South Carolina's low country like Jay, and work in IT. I went on a business trip to Sicily in 2019 and absolutely loved it. It was my intentions to spend 2020 as my prep year to move there in 2021. However, covid happened and now I am shooting for 2023 as my move date. I am no where near retirement age, but with IT I could work remotely. Also, thankfully my mom has at this time agreed to move with me. So, I don't have that to worry about. This video was very helpful! Thank you both for sharing.
Thank you Maja! So glad it was helpful.
Thank you
I've been exploring how to get there part-time and then, if it feels right, to retire there. Rentals look excellent...I was looking at immersion language study, but now I'm going to check out the 10 euro classes. Fabulous! Such great information and you seem so happy!
I love Italy very much and when I was there didn't even feel like I was in a foreign country although speaking Italian helped a lot. Happy and sunny days to Jay ...
I love these interviews and would like to see more! I can't get to Portugal yet, but these videos are keeping my motivation high. The energy that expats have, especially black expats, is really inspirational.
Aww, Val that warms my heart! Thank you for sharing.
Warm welcome to Italy James, enjoy your stay and dont be shy, if you need something just ask that someone will help 😋👍
Thank you
LOVED IT! Thank you for this interview!
Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed it.
James-all the best in your new home! Thank you for another fantastic interview. Helps me maintain my hope in making my move in 8 months! 🤞
Thank you! Good luck with your move. Please keep us posted.
Your interviews are great and soooo helpful. I resonated with Jay, as I am from Los Angeles and just a few years younger. I plan to reach out to him on IG for more info. You are making my future transition easier. Thank you!
That is so awesome and warms my heart! Yes! Please reach out to Jay. He is awesome!
So grateful to see this video! My spouse and I are considering retiring in the Sorrento area and it's helpful to hear positive vibe-related stories! Thank you both!
Thank you
I visited lecce over 20 years ago. Loved it!
Super interesting interview !
James, if you ever come to Parma I just want to let you know that you're invited to have a glass of Lambrusco ! Best wishes, glad you moved here (:
Thank you for this interview. I am in my 60's and looking to go to Aveiro Portugal. Right now I am taking care of my mother.
Thank you Adele! So glad you enjoyed the interview.
Hello Just found this video so lovely. My home town is 40 km from Lecce and cannot wait to return home as i am currently abroad in a very cold climate, so i understand perfectly Jay s need for warmth. I have spent most of my adult life in Puglia so i am well aware of the pros and cons but ultimatey the pros win. Hope to meeting Jay some day and thank you for your kind words about my beautiful country.
Thank you
Another great interview! Jay’s story resonated and reminded me of me😊! (Female version of course!) Being from Los Angeles and coupled with my previous European travel many years ago, I long to return to “my home” across the ocean. Recently retired and looking for that place I can live well on with what I have.🤔 I will soon be taking the leap. I had not heard of Lecce, will take a peek at it, since Italy is my dream location. Btw Jay seems like a sweetheart of a man. 😘 Thanks for the information!
Thanks Toni!
Thank you
I loved this interview, I am glad you found someone who is retired. I will be retiring soon and it gives me another place to check out in Europe. I loved Spain and hated that I did not make it to Portugal. Next time, I'll make the rounds. Like Jay weather is very important to me. I want a mild climate in a walkable neighborhood.
Wonderful! Thank you so much!
Correction, depends on the following vowel.
The Italian "cc" is the English "Ch"
"ca", "cu" and "co" sounds like the English "ca", "cu" and "co".
"ce" and "ci" sounds like the English "che" and "chi"
"che" and "chi" sounds like the English "ce" and "ci"
consider the different sounds for the vowels.
James, I am from the same area of CA, and am coming soon to visit Lecce! Thank you for the info!
Thank you.
Love these interviews! Thank you for doing this, very informative to help me form my own plans :)
So glad you are enjoying them Carol!
Thanks again for another great interview/conversation.
I love that you have guests from different age group and that they’re at different stages of life.
I am a retiree and I was planning to spend a few months in Portugal during this past Canadian winter. I would love to pack up and move there permanently if it wasn’t for other family ties here in Canada.
Like you, I am somewhat of an introvert until I feel comfortable with the people around. I am not the first one to initiate a conversation.
I became aware of the virus since last December and decided to put my plans on hold. I am now feeling trapped for I have not been able to leave Canada to go anywhere besides shopping for life’s necessities.
I was there in Portugal, February, 2019. I did a 2 weeks tour from Lisbon to Porto and another week in Maderia. I love the people, their way of life and yes, good food. The fish soup was my favourite.
Still dreaming of Portugal🤩
I have a suggestion. You should look into a month long cultural immersion class in Portugal when travel is allowed again. One program I considered before I found out about Learning Italian in Lecce was EF Courses Abroad. I think there are other similar introductory immersion course available.
Jay Stewart Thanks, that’s a great idea. I have tried a Portuguese language class here in Canada. It’s a very difficult language to learn, especially at my advanced age.
Esther De Souza I know what you mean about learning a new language in an advanced age. I just turned 61 and I find learning Italian to be difficult. Words don’t stick with me yet. I will continue to try because life is so much richer when you can communicate with the local people.
What a great interview! Thank you! Best wishes to Jay in Lecce!
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it!
bluedog639 thank you.
@@jamesstewart59 Hello Jay Steward how did you find a rental appartment in Lecce ?
I enjoyed hearing James story. Living the dream!
Thank you. So glad you enjoyed it.
I so agree!
He seems like such a nice guy and I really enjoy these interviews! Very informative and I’m looking forward to your next one should you choose to do so
Thank you kindly Darcy. So glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you
I appreciate these interviews and just your channel as a whole. They resonate with the boho girl in me who just wants to wander off from the rat race routine. You show me its possible. Thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing your perspective. 💕
Yes! I needed this one the most. Who knows where things are headed for the US passport, but I am still believing I'll get to retire in Tuscany. Thank you for this interview.
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it.
Really pleasant interview. I have to say my mom is also 94 and my responsibility up until another family member stepped in. Like Shanna, I had to let go and live my life. I’m committed to a year or two teaching in N. California, putting my property in order, but enjoying all the stories and adventures of the single people who just did it!
Thank you so much Susan!
What a great interview. We are in The Bay Area, my wife is from Berlin and we are thinking of moving back to Europe at some point. Great interview work much appreciated. Thx
Thank you so much!
Thank you for sharing your experiences & WISDOM 💜❤️💕
Great interview. Jay you are an inspiration!!!
Happy interview! Way to go James!
I lived the last twenty years in Santa Barbara,CA....But last spring I spend a week in Lecce and really liked it there. Now I am considering to "retire" there and paint fine art.....It has really great natural light to paint!
Here in south Italy we dream to go to California one day, and instead people from LA come here to live! Glad to have you in our Lecce, James! I wish you the best stay, and i guarantee you that when covid will be over, you'll live the city in a more intense and powerful way.
Thank you
Thanks for your great interview. I retired at 52 and live in the Province of Tarragona, Spain. I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. I do not miss the US at all. I moved here with my two children in 2010 to escape all of the violence and crimes there. We can walk anywhere here and not have to look over our shoulders to feel safe. The food here is fresh and healthier (no GMO foods), the Mediterranean water is clean, clear and warm. We also have free healthcare with only pennies for prescription drugs. We ever looked back. Hopefully, more Americans will make the jump living in Europe. The cost of living here is much more affordable than in the US as well.
Thank you so much Theresa! And thank you for sharing your journey. How old were your children when you moved to Spain?
Thank you Jay. Life is now and bravo!
What I miss about Italy the most is taking boat trips on the sea in the night in the Summer with friends or girlfriend. Sorry my english is messed up.
Inspiring and informative. Thanks so much for the advice!
Thank you so much Amy! So glad it was helpful.
Congrats on your move Jay! I'm preparing for a move to Italy in the next 3 years (would like to get a property first). I'm a Dutch citizen living in Virginia, so some things will hopefully be a little easier as a European. Tips are welcome!
I really enjoyed learning about Jay’s experience. I too was born and raised in the south and ultimately moved to Los Angeles. I’ve visited Italy 3 times - the last time was for a month - we rented a castle near Perugia (it took 20 of us to pay for it!) and that was quite a luxurious experience. My goal is to retire to Italy soonish so I’m hoping Jay is willing to be a pen pal! I’ll reach out to him on FB or IG! Thanks so much for this valuable information.
That is so awesome! A castle? That sounds absolutely amazing! I am sure Jay will welcome a new penpal.
Of course, I’d love to have another pen pal Birdgirl.
Lecce, the best choise, beautiful city👍👍
Thanks for this interview. Really helped in building confidence to make the leap. Especially about learning the language and meeting people. That’s always the big hurdle! I❤️Italy and hope to spend extended time there exploring possibilities.
Thank you! I love to hear that.
Wow. Great interview! Very inspirational. I'm glad I stumbled on your channel. I also live in DC, and while I love it here, I've been getting urges to move abroad for awhile.
Thank you! So glad you are enjoying the interviews!
It's good to hear James explain how easy it seems. I'm 2 yrs from retirement and I will be alone, my kids are grown. And I am done with winter here in Canada. It was beautiful when I was younger and tougher but.... I'm interested in the immersion course he took with the Aussie/Italian guide. Can you provide it?
Great interview. Well done both of you. Thank you.
Thank you kindly!
I really love your videos! Really informative and helpful info! Thanks so much!
Thank you so much!
James, great video, I’m retiring at 51 in September and I bought tickets to travel to Portugal, Spain and finish in Italy. I have been to Italy twice for 3weeks in 2018 and 2019. Planning on a few nights in or near Lecce. I would love to figure out if I could move to Italy for 6 months a year. Hopefully this covid crap is over by then.
Thank you, these are always informative and helpful.
Thank you. So glad they it was helpful.
Love the conversation, Jay is such a sweet soul, you can tell from the way he talks and his perspective. I would have liked to see the conversation turn to the subject of racism as well, i've heard of some pretty bad encounters regarding being a visible minority in Italy from foreigners. So i think it's important to address that when it comes to exploring whether you would want to make a move like that especially in Europe.
So far I haven’t seen the racism that I witnessed living in the US. There are many Africans living here and they can be aggressive about selling trinkets to people who are eating and having a conversation. Sometimes they can be very rude with their interruptions. I think this may cause some tensions. I had an issue where many Africans would hang out on the steps to my apartment (because it is shady) and they would drink beer and smoke cigarettes. Many times, I asked them politely to find another place but they always returned. I talked to my landlord and he asked the local police to come by. I noticed that the police talked to the men with dignity. They didn’t threaten them. They talked to them for about 15 minutes and eventually, the Africans left. I don’t noticed them hanging out on my steps anymore and when we see each other around town, we always greet each other. like I said earlier, I haven’t seen the racism that I experienced in the US. I believe that other factors are involved here, like issues related work, money and healthcare.
@@jamesstewart59 Good to hear, Jay. Thanks for your perspective once again. Gives me much more confidence in looking at Italy as a viable option.
Thank you for sharing!!! Cant wait to retire overseas... by the way he is quite handsome!!!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!
D Miller thank you.
This was a great interview that was done from a fresh (and refreshing) perspective. I grew up in the DC area, lived in the NYC area, and now live in the Bay Area, CA. My wife and I are growing tired of the stress that comes with the high cost of living and "work, work, work" mentality that exists in all of those places (and the increasing frequency of acts of terror and intimidation perpetrated against people of color in the US). I am also tired of living in fear of encounters with the people who are supposedly paid to "serve and protect" us.
We are definitely planning for an early retirement abroad and until recently, hadn't really considered Italy. I had heard that it is expensive, the people aren't super friendly, and as a soccer fan, seeing the videos of soccer fans taunting African players by throwing bananas onto the pitch and mimicking apes and making ape noises at them really turned me off to Italy. But videos like this are changing my mind about Italy and the prospects of retiring there, particularly as a Black American. Our family is planning our first visit to Italy this coming Thanksgiving week (Rome and Florence) to "dip our toes in the water". I realize Rome and Florence are some of the most expensive places in Italy, but I figure you gotta do Rome on your inaugural visit to Italy, right, lol!
Anyway, thanks again for the great content. I look forward to watching more of your videos (yes, I subscribed, lol). Cheers!
Thank you kindly. And thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you. By the way, my first visit to Italy included Rome and Florence but most of my time was spent in the small villages of Tuscany. If you have time, I would highly recommend you visit places that are off the beaten path.
I moved to Italy 21 years ago with an Italian passport. I knew immediately that I would never live anyplace else and definitely never again in the USA where I was born and raised.
Do you file an italian tax return for usa income ?
Yes, I will have to file tax returns in Italy, US and California. Italian taxes are done in June, so I have some time to prepare for that.
@@ccirulli yes, I will. The first time will be this summer.
As British, we could used to move freely and settle in Europe no visas. Not now. How sad.
Benvenuto, i can see in your eyes you are a good man. There's always a place for this kind of persons :)
I love your interviews and your fantastic personality, and your fantastic guests.
Thank you so much!
love watching your videos-considering Tavira as a place to reside because it is close to Spain and I study Flamenco dancing. My friend and my husband feel that Portugal would be less expensive and safer than Spain. I am a psychotherapist and am trying to find out how I can continue to provide teletherapy living abroad. So many things to research but a good distraction while the US implodes. I feel heartsick at what the US is going through and seriously considering a new way to live.
What a nice guy.... glad he got his dream to retire in Italy la dolce vita!
Thank you! Yes Jay, is awesome and kind.
This was really a great interview. Sounds like my type of place. Kudos to you both!
Thank you.
I am from apulia, can give some hints about cities to see. It is unfortunate that he moved during the covid period.
Love this interview, you can sense the joy and happiness.
Thank you! I know right?! I thought the same. You can sense his joy from the change.
Thank you both for sharing! Wonderful story.
Thank you so much!
I visited Lecce and I was in love... Very good choise! regards
what a lovely sweet guy.
Hi. James welcome to SALENTO hope you enjoy the Morning CORNETTO with CAFE..hope to meet you during summer time.enjoy your stay
PASTICCIOTTO altro che cornetto
I love both.
Hey cinnamon! I stumbled upon your page awhile ago and it has just been such an inspiration for me to make sound decisions for my future, mostly with getting a masters in international studies in Portugal. But just wanna say I enjoy all the interviews and I missed out on the Moving Abroad Summit, will there be a part 2??
Thank you kindly Alexandria!
come here in Lecce, the Salento peninsula is open to all cultures in respect and peace
Love this
So glad you enjoyed it!
I don't know how i ended up here but i'm from this city. Maybe i'll see him sometimes. Welcome
Thank you
Awesome interview!
Thank you!
I think that's Santa Cesarea in the background, maybe Castro... Really beautiful places a couple miles from where I live, nice choices!!!
If you are looking for awesome food, culture, hot beaches and warm company southern Italy is what you are looking for! I'm from Sicily and I can't stop saying that, for retirement, it's the best place I know so far. Unfortunately, if you need to work I would suggest other places...
Thanks for sharing that!
It is the best place for retirement.
Good job on the interview. Would like to know a little more details about moving to Italy.
What would you like to know more about?
@@jamesstewart59 Thanks Jay. i'm interested in taxes and also how do you move, or do you, your retirement or other assets to Italy.
George Brill I’m still figuring out the Italian taxes. For me, they won’t be due until next June, so I honestly have not spent the time to figure it out. I plan to hire a tax consultant for at least the first 2 years.
George Brill I still have my retirement going to my American bank. I have a bank account here and I use Schwab to do electronic transfers to my Italian account.
@@jamesstewart59 Thanks Jay. One more question for you: what about your retirement income? Did you leave it in the U.S. or move it to Italy?
italy is the best place in the world,
I agree.