Totally agree with how minimalism makes life so much better and less stressful. I sold my house and car and donated almost everything else two years ago so I could travel full-time. It's a very liberating feeling not having/thinking about/worrying about stuff. I'm also currently in Kuala Lumpur and have been here for a month. It's definitely one of my favorite cities in the world and one that could be a future home base for when I'm in Southeast Asia. Thank you for all of your excellent videos!
You should do a video explaining how you went through the process of getting rid of decades of accumulated stuff to arrive at a backpack of clothes. It must have been an emotional experience. Also, you could discuss what are the challenges of living with so little - do old habits of consumerism creep into your mind from time to time, do you shun stores, do you have a continuous process of disposing old items to stay within the one backpack limit?
I have so much S#!+. You end up managing all your stuff. Securing, insuring, maintaining, worrying, etc. I have been looking at vanlife for about 8 years now. One day, everything I own will fit in my vehicle. I'm still fit enough to travel internationally, so vanlife will come when I'm older...70's? Or maybe I'll retire overseas.😁 Love Malaysia. I've been there many times, and more lately. We've been there 3 times in the last 18 months. I could live there.
@@RetireandGo I noticed that most of your videos in KL have a lovely greeneries background, it makes the heavy subject matter seemed lighter with the natural surrounding. 😀
Love your message , love KL n I made a mistake 10 yrs ago bought a condo by Pavillion , never made money n sold recently, don’t buy there , just rent . I still love KL n hope to be like u soon, from Los Angeles . Once I can get rid of stuffs n downsizing ……travel light
When I visited my chosen place was China town, just like you I visited the park every day, I usually stayed 3/4 days. I love Malaysia. Enjoying your videos thanks 😊
What a wonderful video. Living in moderation is simply the best lifestyle. Haha, Stonehenge in KL, Malaysia. Minimalist, living with the basic necessities is the ultimate freedom.
Wow. I'm fully on board with you on the stresses of "modern" society. You're right: it is a mess. Amazing what hoops you have to jump through just to maintain a basic lifestyle. Minimalism, for sure, is a fantastic cure for a lot of this. I am retired and own my home, but still have to pay my county tax, city tax, and HOA dues. Always something. Enjoy your Time!
Minimalism is a game-changer for sure. It's an option that most people have, that can open a lot of doors. I completely agree and love the flexibility, mobility, and low stress of this lifestyle as well. I've been working seasonal jobs at national parks for about 6 months of the year, and starting to live the other half year overseas. Will be documenting on my channel. Hope to visit Kuala Lumpur in the next year or so. New sub here, enjoyed the video 👍
Your videos have really opened my eyes to retiring early and living a minimalist lifestyle, starting my international journey soon! Getting the house ready to sell at the end of this year!
You seem to like Perdana Botani Garden a lot. I also think its one of the most beautiful spot in KL. If you like green garden/park recommend you visit Taman Saujana Hijau Putrajaya. It is outside city skirt but its worth it 👌
Hi! You are absolutely right! the modern way of living put stress on everyone just to maintain the daily life. Minimalism is what we all should think about. Not try to add more but less or reducing❤
@@RetireandGo if you happen to be in Japan in June I will be in a few places throughout. Let me know. I'd love to buy you a great bowl of ramen. And I know that you'd have a "whole lot to talk about"...lol
In the past I've created a excess of sensation through things... material possessions, starving for the next experience (item) or so it had seemed. Now I and he are letting go , selling off prize possessions, giving things away. Im struggling with a loss of self expression, not a battle I cannot win , Everything I own has been carefully curated, Buddha's for example sold a fountain I'd had for decades and literally felt pain, in that moment I also felt a enormous joy knowing the person who purchased it will love it. I know when I pass on all things will end, the freedom currently is stronger than all of our possessions- .Does anyone else struggle with letting go ? The ebb and flow hits hard . Love the stone formation you were walking through, reminds me of Stonehenge. Just beautiful.
I'm only beginning this journey and I completely understand what you're going through. Every item I discard has a story behind it. I irrationally struggle with the thought that if I discard the item I also lose the story and the memory. Some days I can attack a closet of possessions with fury - they tie me down and fill my house with an unsightly mess. Those days are my most productive ... until I find something sentimental and I get stuck. I'm determined to get done but it's a process with ups and downs.
@edward88881 Beginner here as well, I've been a metaphysical teacher for decades and have always run through the death process in terms of realizing you can not take material things with you, so essentially heading into a chapter of travel and minimalist lifestyle I felt I should not struggle, yet the most beautiful items I own are seriously challenging to accept as stuff goes out the door, I sort of mourn it. 😢anyway a test I'm sure of will. A little everyday! Process of overcoming and adapting.
I'm in a position where I could easily follow your path. The narrative about all the stickers for your car cracked me up. Because it resonated. I'm interested in your approach re: tourist Visa only. I just have to wrap my head around all the traveling, and hotel costs. But I am interested in your approach.
I wish I work in the US and retiring in Malaysia. But it is unfortunate that I am a Malaysian. I do not make so much money. I enjoy the luxury at affordable price in KL. My first two years of my retirement, i travel all over Malaysia by car. It is the best experience ever . You will love east coast Trengganu n Tioman.
The usual great video. Im a semi minimalist. Tetired expat livjng jn Thailand with Thai Wife. Shebowns her house. Have a car and motorcycle. Tranel a lot. Yry to keep the stuff to a minimum. And the stress. Every day great.
@@RetireandGo love your content, brother. Medellin requires connections to be safe. I’m happy and fine. But many travelers come and get robbed and murdered / drugged especially those looking for sex / prostitution
I can't decide where to call home base. 61. USA. Only 1 4 week trip to Thailand inder my belt. My next adventure will be 3 months starting next January. Thinking of breaking it up into 2 week stays in 6 different cities and/or countries. Vietnam, PH, Thailand (Hua Hin and Pattaya), and now Malaysia, Indonesia. I will wave to Singapore from the airplane...no can afford!!
@Explorer766 I think you have the right approach. I did the same thing when I started my full-time slow travel lifestyle 2 years ago. My first trip was 3 months with a 2 week stay in each place. I learned a lot from doing that, then tried some other ways. Keep experimenting until you find what works the best for you. As for deciding on a home base, that's probably something that will happen organically as you travel around and find the place(s) that resonates with you. You don't have to decide early on. Just enjoy the exploration! Safe travels!
I recently saw a video from an American in Thailand. He was talking about 200 Thai Baht ($6 USD) per ATM cash transaction as no big deal. I know you mentioned Schwab as offering a no fee ATM card and even reimbursing your third party fee. Can you do a video on money management options for foreigners?
Thank you for this video. You're awesome. Question: if flexible, mobile, and having sold everything, house included, talking about bureaucracy for business or government affairs, how do you deal with having an address States-side and Malaysian-side? I understand that in the US, PO Boxes can be rented, but in certain cases, PO Boxes are not accepted as valid addresses, how do you deal with that issue? (Assume that you have no one to help, no family, no friends, or that you would want to be 100% independent from requiring the help of someone else) Thank you. PS: The standard lens looks perfect to me, the very mild fish-eyed or I assume a wide angle lens blurs the edges, slightly rounds the picture (sphere-like), and IMO can be used to direct the focus on the center of the screen which could be particularly useful for emphasis but it also can be used to create an artistic and dynamic flow...maybe also creating a disorienting feel which, again, can be very useful for certain scenes. Each tool has its purpose, time and place that the artist, such as yourself, masters over time. Stay free! Cheers!
@av603 There are several different companies that can provide you with a virtual mailbox and address in the US. I use Post Scan Mail and have been happy with them, and I know others who use iPostal1.
Great question! Here are ideas: 1. Live with a family member, it’s your legit address then 2. Mail services , costly but effective 3. Pobox, again costly
@@RetireandGo Much obliged! You're the Man! So, I take it as such: a family address for my physical, legal home address for official matters; a PO box for any other matter; and mail services to forward mail to wherever I am in the world... 2 add'l questions if I may: are there such things as PO Boxes in Malaysia or equivalent alternatives? How long does it take for mail to get to Malaysia from the US, based on your experience? Again, thank you so much for all your doings, all the information you provide is priceless! Watching your awesome videos always feels like going on an exciting exotic adventure. Excellent work! 👍
Good question. It's going to be more challenging with no family or friends. You can look into electronic mail services that scan your mail and then send it to you electronically. It's all possible, don't let the little challenges stop you.
I was traveling long term before Covid. Averaged 18 countries a year with an inconspicuous 20L Uniqlo 3-way backpack. Packed my clothes, ThinkPad, tripod, and DSLR and still stayed below 7kg. Never checked in my bag ever and whenever flight employees saw my bag they just waived me over. I'm a woman and the stereotype is that women have a lot more to pack while traveling, but that's just rubbish. I think people just don't know how to pack properly, especially the gap year kids who think a 60L backpack is necessary for their round-the-world trip. The bag itself is already heavy with all their padding to make you comfortable wearing it, but if you pack light you won't need such a big bag in the first place.
@@jackbaldwin3649 Neither. I usually wash my clothes in the bathroom sink every night before bedtime. Since I pack so little (10-piece capsule wardrobe), I have to wash my clothes frequently.
@@jackbaldwin3649 My main motivation is the bag weight. I'm petite and not as agile as before, so I need to travel as light as possible. If I didn't have to bring my laptop and camera equipment, I'd probably be able to use a 16L Fjallraven Kanken like other long term travelers I know. I also don't like to stand out with an obvious traveling backpack, regardless whether I blend in with the locals or not. Just part of safety measures imo.
If you don’t mind me asking? At what age did you finally retire and start traveling? I also have been living a minimalist lifestyle. I own my house outright since 2016, I make $140k but have been living on $40K and investing the rest since I paid off my my home and loving life. I don’t need much plus I enjoy peace of Mind(very little bill) financial freedom, personal freedom and have options! It feels great, going to retire within 2yrs and do exactly what your doing
Great question I started at 52 after 35 years of work and investing Ravaged from financially from a divorce Rebuilt my life You are doing well on living costs !
You seem to be traveling solo. What if you slip on a banana peel? Do you have a will or trust or some other document in place? Perhaps you can do a video on this!
I will work on this ! Emergencies: 1. Communicate with family 2. Family should track you via phone and backpack via AirTag 3. Have travel insurance for emergencies 4. Have documents in order 5. Update US state department website each country
Please give us some info on how you go about selecting your hotels, do you book before you arrive in a certain country? Do you use Agoda, Booking, Air BNB?
Yes for sure Expedia, distance from sites I want to see, only book 3 days to test hotel, air con, private bathroom, cost search low to high then look around $16 to $18 a night :-)
You hint at an important point: Letting go of things is one big step and letting go of habits and fears is another. The ghost rules past. You never really own anything. Even property you rent from the government and you have no recourse if they don't honor the contract. Letting go of stress is the ultimate goal.
Great video as usual. But I am adopting a bad habit. Each time I watch one of your video, I get hungry and want to eat. You would think I adopt your exercise routine as well...
have you ever thought about doing the Camino de Santiago in Spain (well, it's also in Portugal and a bit in France too)? As much as you like to walk and minimalism, it could be a great fit!
@@RetireandGo There is a ton on RUclips about it, but essentially, you walk through all of Spain from town to town so you don't need a tent or sleeping bag and stay in albergues, which are like hostels, but with a huge community aspect. It's fairly cheap, and one of the key elements of it is walking with as little weight as possible, so people go extremely minimalistic for it, like 10 pounds including the backpack, for 500 miles of walking. Also, the movie "The Way" with Martin Sheen and Emelio Esteves does a good job of putting a bit of Hollywood spin on it (but it's very pretty and moving). It is really high on my list for after this contract is up and I do the Early Retirement life.
Hi, I'm planning for a three weeks vacation, and I'd like to have an idea ( as you've already did it) , approximately how much do I have to figure if I choose koala lampur,, Malaysia, minimalist, thank you so much for this useful video.
I'm more tahn 35 years an entrepeneur and becaause off stress i had a hearth attack so i quitte everything and moving to Asi to travel with my Thai girlfriend
They just raised my property tax 1200 per year to over 4000 per year total if you really look at how much tax we pay your working for about 40 percent of your check in the west
Your videos are so well put together, informative, and inspiring! A quick question: Do you have a max percentage of total costs that you like to maintain for accommodations? Like a third of total costs for example?
@@RetireandGo I was wondering if you had a percentage of that total that you try to keep your housing costs under? Like for example, under 1/3 (in your case about $650) of your total? Or maybe it depends on which country you're in. Thanks!
great talk... money, stuff and stress are related. I trying to declutter because I have so much stuff everywhere. Must be a north american cultural thing in particular. have you done a video of your travel gear and what you travel with?> you mentioned one bag!
@@RetireandGo Great will check it out. Looking forward to more finance related videos too. I am still far from retirement (mid30s) but itching to see the world in a meaningful and affordable way. Keep up the great work!
Please can u tell us honestly whats your monthly expenses to live and travel without being too tight on taking good care of urself food etc plz focus on travel finances Thx
How are you doing? I have the following question for you: Do you have any good suggestions for an affordable hotel in Kuala Lumpur please? Happy travels and thank you.
This is a good question I’m working on ideas 1. Say goodbye then show a meal 2. Show meal then say goodbye 3. Show other situations , say goodbye at the very end Just trying stuff that’s all haha
bless you but I will say you can't out run inflation on a low fixed income. The ideal situation is to have a sizeable income/savings THEN go somewhere cheap, not the over way around...all the best
So true Good point One good thing about this lifestyle is that my cost of living is below my passive income I buy more dividend stocks every month! Insane! I’m building my retirement as I’m retired That is Asia retirement
Great question Look at the MRT lines ok? Where they end, those communities have hotels that are like $10 to $15 a night ! Insane good prices and just jump on the MRT anytime
I have a question for you please… so I also think it’s great to be able to travel the world and experience other cultures. However, if Hawaii was easily affordable would you be doing what you’re doing now or would you be spending much more of your time in Hawaii? Thank you.
Great question! If Hawaii was cheaper I would still travel but I might not have sold everything and invested it to travel It would have required less a jump What are your thoughts on this ?
@@RetireandGo I absolutely love traveling however i also enjoy a simple home life as well. I would like the best of both worlds too. To have a small home and garden in my home country in NZ and have the means to travel. However NZ has become the whore of very nefarious forces and is totally unaffordable now. So…selling up here in central Europe and I shall let my intuition guide me. Currently learning Spanish in preparation. 😅
Yes my goodness No car needed in Asia You can rent one but with traffic it’s a mess and slow Just use rail or on foot You put hundreds in your pocket monthly :-)
And my ties are severed clean The less I have the more I gain Off the beaten path I reign Rover wanderer Nomad vagabond Call me what you will From “Wherever I may Roam” by Metallica
Minimalism…you are speaking my language. USA expat in Asia 5 years and loving it. Still holding on to Car in storage. Final product to “Let Go”. I struggle with this decision. Keep or Let Go. Everything else is gone…It’s a Subaru I can turn into light travel car camper for visits back. Maybe I’ll flip a coin. Your Thoughts?
is it stressful looking for a new place to stay while traveling and staying in the budget? Although a different sort, I suppose. I definitely want to travel, with a backpack, with no cares or F*ks to give about what I leave behind in the US. I own my home here and that would be a really hard thing to give up, except I do not want to deal with renting/house sitting. I have waffled over that for the past 3 years. I have one more year here in SWFL to make up my mind. I have a contract that runs out in May 2025. Unless something crazy happens. Also I will be 62 and can sign up for SS. Sell it all and travel. Will it still be affordable by then? I also watch Taylors channel, he lives there in KL. He makes it look pretty attractive to live there. I think I would have to do some real traveling before I could settle down. Too much world I have not seen!!!
Great question! It’s quite chill When I travel to a new country I find a hotel that’s easy to get to from the airport Taxi or rail system I book 3 days so I can just check it out
OMG!!! The Monitor Lizard!!! Let's say you were walking through the park and you sat down to enjoy the view. With the warmth of the sun, let's say you dozed off on the hillside. Next thing you know, this lizard slithers its way up to you and you doze off, unaware its nearly on top of you... What's going to happen? Are they dangerous? Will they attack a human? Or how about your little dog on a leash? Seriously...???
Van life night not be minimalism. It could drag you down with a clumsy, gas guzzling vehicle that needs maintenance. And you'd be stuck in a country where lunch is $10-25.
If You're Not A Consumer, You're Nothing. Even though you're unhappy and stressed out from that philosophy.... keep on buying more useless stuff. Amen.
You seem to be traveling solo. What if you slip on a banana peel? Do you have a will or trust or some other document in place? Perhaps you can do a video on this!
Important point! 1. Communicate with family 2. Family should track you via phone and backpack via AirTag 3. Have travel insurance for emergencies 4. Have documents in order 5. Update US state department website each country I’ll work on this in a video Great question !!
Totally agree with how minimalism makes life so much better and less stressful. I sold my house and car and donated almost everything else two years ago so I could travel full-time. It's a very liberating feeling not having/thinking about/worrying about stuff. I'm also currently in Kuala Lumpur and have been here for a month. It's definitely one of my favorite cities in the world and one that could be a future home base for when I'm in Southeast Asia. Thank you for all of your excellent videos!
Oh my I love to read this
You are free and happy
"Freedoms just another word for nothing left to lose" Janis Joplin
Love this :-)
Ok, that's it, enough is enough, I'm coming to Malaysia with my camera too! 😅
Yes! Are you a photographer? You will find so much inspiration
Bring a zoom apparatus. To catch wildlife in action.
James, honey don't forget undeizzz bring it too, maybe they not have your size, 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭
Kuala Lumpur deserves a Gold Medal for the elegant and practical design of their parks and the Twin Towers too!
I agree
It is a beautiful city
Well designed
Thank you very much for the inspiring video. Minimalism makes life so much better🙏
Thank you :-)
I agree
It de stressed my life
You should do a video explaining how you went through the process of getting rid of decades of accumulated stuff to arrive at a backpack of clothes. It must have been an emotional experience. Also, you could discuss what are the challenges of living with so little - do old habits of consumerism creep into your mind from time to time, do you shun stores, do you have a continuous process of disposing old items to stay within the one backpack limit?
love this idea!
This is a great idea
Great point I’ll work on this idea
Good one !
Yes, no buying stuff
It saves me money
I have so much S#!+. You end up managing all your stuff. Securing, insuring, maintaining, worrying, etc.
I have been looking at vanlife for about 8 years now. One day, everything I own will fit in my vehicle.
I'm still fit enough to travel internationally, so vanlife will come when I'm older...70's? Or maybe I'll retire overseas.😁 Love Malaysia. I've been there many times, and more lately. We've been there 3 times in the last 18 months. I could live there.
Darryl, I totally understand!
I was there
I went through my storage sold or donated everything
No more storage bill
This took a week
It was worth it
The KLCC park, the Perdana Botanical garden, the Lake Titiwangsa garden, those are such a wonderful oasis in KL.
I agree
Nice places to walk and relax
@@RetireandGo I noticed that most of your videos in KL have a lovely greeneries background, it makes the heavy subject matter seemed lighter with the natural surrounding. 😀
Love your message , love KL n I made a mistake 10 yrs ago bought a condo by Pavillion , never made money n sold recently, don’t buy there , just rent . I still love KL n hope to be like u soon, from Los Angeles . Once I can get rid of stuffs n downsizing ……travel light
Truth
No condos in Asia
Too much inventory
Invest in the US in dividends then just rent is my plan
U should visit Ipoh , Cameron Highland , Taman Negara ….. beautiful nature
@@RetireandGo We just retired this year. I would love to see a video on investment strategy with a reasonable, conservative return. 🙂
When I visited my chosen place was China town, just like you I visited the park every day, I usually stayed 3/4 days. I love Malaysia. Enjoying your videos thanks 😊
This is great
You found your places to relax and enjoy
What a wonderful video. Living in moderation is simply the best lifestyle. Haha, Stonehenge in KL, Malaysia. Minimalist, living with the basic necessities is the ultimate freedom.
Yes I agree
A peaceful life
Low stress
@@RetireandGo Yes, stress free life opens up many possibilities. 😀
Wow. I'm fully on board with you on the stresses of "modern" society. You're right: it is a mess. Amazing what hoops you have to jump through just to maintain a basic lifestyle. Minimalism, for sure, is a fantastic cure for a lot of this. I am retired and own my home, but still have to pay my county tax, city tax, and HOA dues. Always something. Enjoy your Time!
Yes true
It got to be so much
I was like … I’m retired, why am I dealing with all this haha
Great videos helping me to de-stress my life, 12 mos away till I start my early retirement
Outstanding
You are working towards your goals
Bring able to live somewhere without a car relieves a lot of stress😮
Yes I agree
It was a cost and burden
Just get a vespa scooter, simple
Minimalism is a game-changer for sure. It's an option that most people have, that can open a lot of doors. I completely agree and love the flexibility, mobility, and low stress of this lifestyle as well. I've been working seasonal jobs at national parks for about 6 months of the year, and starting to live the other half year overseas. Will be documenting on my channel. Hope to visit Kuala Lumpur in the next year or so. New sub here, enjoyed the video 👍
Very nice!
I want you to travel ! Do videos ! Grow! Explore ! Become more successful than your wildest dreams
@@RetireandGo Thank you, my friend. Wish all the best for you as well!
Your videos have really opened my eyes to retiring early and living a minimalist lifestyle, starting my international journey soon! Getting the house ready to sell at the end of this year!
This is great!
You have a good plan
I rented my home for income
If it gets to be too much of a hassle I’ll sell it as well
Agree minimalist is the way to go
It has really helped me reduce costs
@RetireandGo when the time comes I consider selling everything, invest and travel.
Stay health Sir,...Have a great days 🏃
Absolutely
Have a great weekend
Less mess -> Less stress😊
More Life.
I love this
Super nice ideas and directions. I really appreciate "I" statements too. Thank you!
Absolutely
Have a wonderful week !
I love this. This is so inspiring. In a week Im moving forward with my plans, going back to the states and selling everything I own.
Very nice
The world awaits you !
You seem to like Perdana Botani Garden a lot. I also think its one of the most beautiful spot in KL. If you like green garden/park recommend you visit Taman Saujana Hijau Putrajaya. It is outside city skirt but its worth it 👌
Yes it’s part of my morning walk
I can’t run anymore due to military injuries in my knees so I’m a daily walker :-)
Great video! I also appreciate all the insight you gave in your answers to peoples' questions here.
Thank you so much
I hope you have a great week
Totally agree abt beauracracy and complexity-it really affects quality of life.
Was that the mad lizard of KL?
Yes true
Documents, fees, fines, regulations
Ugh … haha. :-)
Thank you ounce again
You are most welcome !
Hi! You are absolutely right! the modern way of living put stress on everyone just to maintain the daily life. Minimalism is what we all should think about. Not try to add more but less or reducing❤
True!
I agree
Reduce, live life !
It really helped me
Another awesome video with a lot of great insight. Thank you!
Thank you
I appreciate this !
:-)
@@RetireandGo if you happen to be in Japan in June I will be in a few places throughout. Let me know. I'd love to buy you a great bowl of ramen. And I know that you'd have a "whole lot to talk about"...lol
New lenses are awesome, adding more depth
Thank you !
I’m always trying some new stuff out
I appreciate the feedback :-)
The rail station that you were at called the KL Sentral also connected to fast train around 40 minutes to the airport (KLIA)
Yes, true
It’s the place to connect when I need to get anywhere
So nice to get around
In the past I've created a excess of sensation through things... material possessions, starving for the next experience (item) or so it had seemed. Now I and he are letting go , selling off prize possessions, giving things away. Im struggling with a loss of self expression, not a battle I cannot win , Everything I own has been carefully curated, Buddha's for example sold a fountain I'd had for decades and literally felt pain, in that moment I also felt a enormous joy knowing the person who purchased it will love it. I know when I pass on all things will end, the freedom currently is stronger than all of our possessions- .Does anyone else struggle with letting go ? The ebb and flow hits hard . Love the stone formation you were walking through, reminds me of Stonehenge. Just beautiful.
I'm only beginning this journey and I completely understand what you're going through. Every item I discard has a story behind it. I irrationally struggle with the thought that if I discard the item I also lose the story and the memory. Some days I can attack a closet of possessions with fury - they tie me down and fill my house with an unsightly mess. Those days are my most productive ... until I find something sentimental and I get stuck. I'm determined to get done but it's a process with ups and downs.
Thank you for this great comment
I enjoyed reading it
Yes it’s part of a science center in KL
A reproduction
@edward88881 Beginner here as well, I've been a metaphysical teacher for decades and have always run through the death process in terms of realizing you can not take material things with you, so essentially heading into a chapter of travel and minimalist lifestyle I felt I should not struggle, yet the most beautiful items I own are seriously challenging to accept as stuff goes out the door, I sort of mourn it. 😢anyway a test I'm sure of will. A little everyday! Process of overcoming and adapting.
Love the idea of minimalism. Great video and beautiful park. Your new lenses look fine. 🤗
I appreciate the feedback
I like to try new things
If they work cool
Haha
I'm in a position where I could easily follow your path. The narrative about all the stickers for your car cracked me up. Because it resonated. I'm interested in your approach re: tourist Visa only. I just have to wrap my head around all the traveling, and hotel costs. But I am interested in your approach.
Oh yes
All the red tape of vehicles haha
Fees registration this that
For sure you should visit Asia this year !
I wish I work in the US and retiring in Malaysia. But it is unfortunate that I am a Malaysian. I do not make so much money. I enjoy the luxury at affordable price in KL. My first two years of my retirement, i travel all over Malaysia by car. It is the best experience ever . You will love east coast Trengganu n Tioman.
You are in a better place
The US is toxic
@@RetireandGovery true .. Agree with you 100%
The usual great video.
Im a semi minimalist. Tetired expat livjng jn Thailand with Thai Wife. Shebowns her house. Have a car and motorcycle. Tranel a lot. Yry to keep the stuff to a minimum. And the stress.
Every day great.
This is wonderful to read
I wish you and your wife all the best in life !
@RetireandGo you too. Awesome videos, advice and philosophy. Stay safe.
Your videos are very educational. Thank you, Sensei.
Very kind of you !
I wish to inspire and guide in the spirit of Bodhisattva
:-)
Excellent 👍🏻
I’m in Medellin, 5 years, super dangerous
Really? Is it someplace you can not leave? Do you have options?
@@RetireandGo love your content, brother. Medellin requires connections to be safe. I’m happy and fine. But many travelers come and get robbed and murdered / drugged especially those looking for sex / prostitution
You're being facetious, I take it. I think Medellin (like other places) is dangerous to those looking for drugs and women.
I can't decide where to call home base. 61. USA. Only 1 4 week trip to Thailand inder my belt. My next adventure will be 3 months starting next January. Thinking of breaking it up into 2 week stays in 6 different cities and/or countries. Vietnam, PH, Thailand (Hua Hin and Pattaya), and now Malaysia, Indonesia. I will wave to Singapore from the airplane...no can afford!!
@Explorer766 I think you have the right approach. I did the same thing when I started my full-time slow travel lifestyle 2 years ago. My first trip was 3 months with a 2 week stay in each place. I learned a lot from doing that, then tried some other ways. Keep experimenting until you find what works the best for you. As for deciding on a home base, that's probably something that will happen organically as you travel around and find the place(s) that resonates with you. You don't have to decide early on. Just enjoy the exploration! Safe travels!
I like that you are thinking and trying different things !
Take notes and costs
Photos
Then you can decide after each year what worked
You should wear short sleeve 100% thin cotton shirts without collars that we call cekak Musang
Interesting!
I’ll have to look around for these
So fkn true re stress section!!
Yes I agree !
Have a great day
I recently saw a video from an American in Thailand. He was talking about 200 Thai Baht ($6 USD) per ATM cash transaction as no big deal. I know you mentioned Schwab as offering a no fee ATM card and even reimbursing your third party fee. Can you do a video on money management options for foreigners?
Nice question thank you
Yes schwab is feeling free abroad
Every quarter you see the reimbursement put in your account
Nice !
Good video about minimalism. How are you coping with the current heat in KL? I heard it's like 40C (100F +) with the humidity. Cheers !
It is very hot for sure
Im ready for some pool time haha
Thank you for this video. You're awesome. Question: if flexible, mobile, and having sold everything, house included, talking about bureaucracy for business or government affairs, how do you deal with having an address States-side and Malaysian-side? I understand that in the US, PO Boxes can be rented, but in certain cases, PO Boxes are not accepted as valid addresses, how do you deal with that issue? (Assume that you have no one to help, no family, no friends, or that you would want to be 100% independent from requiring the help of someone else) Thank you. PS: The standard lens looks perfect to me, the very mild fish-eyed or I assume a wide angle lens blurs the edges, slightly rounds the picture (sphere-like), and IMO can be used to direct the focus on the center of the screen which could be particularly useful for emphasis but it also can be used to create an artistic and dynamic flow...maybe also creating a disorienting feel which, again, can be very useful for certain scenes. Each tool has its purpose, time and place that the artist, such as yourself, masters over time. Stay free! Cheers!
@av603 There are several different companies that can provide you with a virtual mailbox and address in the US. I use Post Scan Mail and have been happy with them, and I know others who use iPostal1.
Great question!
Here are ideas:
1. Live with a family member, it’s your legit address then
2. Mail services , costly but effective
3. Pobox, again costly
@@RetireandGo Much obliged! You're the Man! So, I take it as such: a family address for my physical, legal home address for official matters; a PO box for any other matter; and mail services to forward mail to wherever I am in the world... 2 add'l questions if I may: are there such things as PO Boxes in Malaysia or equivalent alternatives? How long does it take for mail to get to Malaysia from the US, based on your experience? Again, thank you so much for all your doings, all the information you provide is priceless! Watching your awesome videos always feels like going on an exciting exotic adventure. Excellent work! 👍
Good question. It's going to be more challenging with no family or friends. You can look into electronic mail services that scan your mail and then send it to you electronically. It's all possible, don't let the little challenges stop you.
@@jackbaldwin3649 thank you! I'll check it out for sure!! You're awesome!
I was traveling long term before Covid. Averaged 18 countries a year with an inconspicuous 20L Uniqlo 3-way backpack. Packed my clothes, ThinkPad, tripod, and DSLR and still stayed below 7kg. Never checked in my bag ever and whenever flight employees saw my bag they just waived me over. I'm a woman and the stereotype is that women have a lot more to pack while traveling, but that's just rubbish. I think people just don't know how to pack properly, especially the gap year kids who think a 60L backpack is necessary for their round-the-world trip. The bag itself is already heavy with all their padding to make you comfortable wearing it, but if you pack light you won't need such a big bag in the first place.
18 countries a year is incredible!
That’s a light packing, you know your stuff !
Did you rent a place with a washer or just have your laundry done for you? TY!
@@jackbaldwin3649 Neither. I usually wash my clothes in the bathroom sink every night before bedtime. Since I pack so little (10-piece capsule wardrobe), I have to wash my clothes frequently.
@@karatn We've done this. It gets old after a while but I know it's the cheapest way to go.
@@jackbaldwin3649 My main motivation is the bag weight. I'm petite and not as agile as before, so I need to travel as light as possible. If I didn't have to bring my laptop and camera equipment, I'd probably be able to use a 16L Fjallraven Kanken like other long term travelers I know. I also don't like to stand out with an obvious traveling backpack, regardless whether I blend in with the locals or not. Just part of safety measures imo.
If you don’t mind me asking? At what age did you finally retire and start traveling? I also have been living a minimalist lifestyle. I own my house outright since 2016, I make $140k but have been living on $40K and investing the rest since I paid off my my home and loving life. I don’t need much plus I enjoy peace of
Mind(very little bill) financial freedom, personal freedom and have options! It feels great, going to retire within 2yrs and do exactly what your doing
Great question
I started at 52 after 35 years of work and investing
Ravaged from financially from a divorce
Rebuilt my life
You are doing well on living costs !
@@RetireandGo Great age to retire!!
You seem to be traveling solo. What if you slip on a banana peel? Do you have a will or trust or some other document in place? Perhaps you can do a video on this!
I will work on this !
Emergencies:
1. Communicate with family
2. Family should track you via phone and backpack via AirTag
3. Have travel insurance for emergencies
4. Have documents in order
5. Update US state department website each country
Please give us some info on how you go about selecting your hotels, do you book before you arrive in a certain country? Do you use Agoda, Booking, Air BNB?
Yes for sure
Expedia, distance from sites I want to see, only book 3 days to test hotel, air con, private bathroom, cost search low to high then look around $16 to $18 a night :-)
@@RetireandGo Thanks
You hint at an important point: Letting go of things is one big step and letting go of habits and fears is another. The ghost rules past.
You never really own anything. Even property you rent from the government and you have no recourse if they don't honor the contract.
Letting go of stress is the ultimate goal.
It’s so true I agree
It’s a mind shift
Finding freedom through letting go
Great comment, I completely agree, letting go of habits, fears, and stress 👍
you mentioned, "book a flight." What US departure city would you recommend, airline, booking site, etc?
Hmm I think both Expedia and agoda have quality sites
I use both to find deals
Have you tried them ?
No direct flights from the States to Malaysia. Fly into Japan, Taiwan, HCM, HK, or Singapore. Minimalism sounds very liberating. Safe travels.
Great video as usual. But I am adopting a bad habit. Each time I watch one of your video, I get hungry and want to eat. You would think I adopt your exercise routine as well...
Haha I understand completely!
have you ever thought about doing the Camino de Santiago in Spain (well, it's also in Portugal and a bit in France too)? As much as you like to walk and minimalism, it could be a great fit!
I am planning some Europe for 2025
Thoughts?
@@RetireandGo There is a ton on RUclips about it, but essentially, you walk through all of Spain from town to town so you don't need a tent or sleeping bag and stay in albergues, which are like hostels, but with a huge community aspect. It's fairly cheap, and one of the key elements of it is walking with as little weight as possible, so people go extremely minimalistic for it, like 10 pounds including the backpack, for 500 miles of walking. Also, the movie "The Way" with Martin Sheen and Emelio Esteves does a good job of putting a bit of Hollywood spin on it (but it's very pretty and moving). It is really high on my list for after this contract is up and I do the Early Retirement life.
ha..ha.. only you walk in hot sun in kl lah. hot hot bro. thanks for video lah.
It’s hot! Haha
I love it :-)
You are so right about stress..Here in Canada with the rent and a leased car expense is 42k/year..Am I crazy..
Oh my! Yeah that’s like in Hawaii my home
So expensive
Hi, I'm planning for a three weeks vacation, and I'd like to have an idea ( as you've already did it) , approximately how much do I have to figure if I choose koala lampur,, Malaysia, minimalist, thank you so much for this useful video.
I understand
I paid average $16 a night rooms
In this series I show three hotels
There are nicer hotel for sure
That’s my price point
@@RetireandGo thank you so much.
I'm more tahn 35 years an entrepeneur and becaause off stress i had a hearth attack so i quitte everything and moving to Asi to travel with my Thai girlfriend
Very nice!
I want you to live a happy low stress life
They just raised my property tax 1200 per year to over 4000 per year total if you really look at how much tax we pay your working for about 40 percent of your check in the west
I totally understand
I’m my home state too
It’s terrible
The high taxes
How often do you do laundry? It’s hot as hell over in SE Asian. Must sweat a lot.
Most condos have washing machines.
Great question
I wash about one time a week
I have it in a few videos
I use a 25 cent Downey packet in the tub with hot water
I do it myself
Your videos are so well put together, informative, and inspiring! A quick question: Do you have a max percentage of total costs that you like to maintain for accommodations? Like a third of total costs for example?
Thank you !
Yes, I keep my monthly costs under $2000 including airfare
That maintains my budget
Thoughts?
@@RetireandGo I was wondering if you had a percentage of that total that you try to keep your housing costs under? Like for example, under 1/3 (in your case about $650) of your total? Or maybe it depends on which country you're in. Thanks!
great talk... money, stuff and stress are related. I trying to declutter because I have so much stuff everywhere. Must be a north american cultural thing in particular. have you done a video of your travel gear and what you travel with?> you mentioned one bag!
Yes there is a recent Pack Light video with everything
Yeah, letting go of my things was the first step to freedom
@@RetireandGo Great will check it out. Looking forward to more finance related videos too. I am still far from retirement (mid30s) but itching to see the world in a meaningful and affordable way. Keep up the great work!
Please can u tell us honestly whats your monthly expenses to live and travel without being too tight on taking good care of urself food etc plz focus on travel finances
Thx
Yes of course
I live in Asia for under $24,000 a year
How are you doing?
I have the following question for you:
Do you have any good suggestions for an affordable hotel in Kuala Lumpur please?
Happy travels and thank you.
Check out my Malaysia videos
I show three $16 a day hotels in KL in this months trip !
I stayed in them so I have videos footage
Nice video. Why do you sign off minutes before your video is actually over?
This is a good question
I’m working on ideas
1. Say goodbye then show a meal
2. Show meal then say goodbye
3. Show other situations , say goodbye at the very end
Just trying stuff that’s all haha
bless you but I will say you can't out run inflation on a low fixed income. The ideal situation is to have a sizeable income/savings THEN go somewhere cheap, not the over way around...all the best
So true
Good point
One good thing about this lifestyle is that my cost of living is below my passive income
I buy more dividend stocks every month!
Insane!
I’m building my retirement as I’m retired
That is Asia retirement
What places would you recommend living at in KL to keep expenses low but not sacrifice luxuries?
You hv to go to smaller towns. Cities can be pricey but public transport is better in cities.
Suburb of kl example, petaling jaya is cheaper than kl. It is next to kl.
Great question
Look at the MRT lines ok?
Where they end, those communities have hotels that are like $10 to $15 a night !
Insane good prices and just jump on the MRT anytime
I have a question for you please… so I also think it’s great to be able to travel the world and experience other cultures. However, if Hawaii was easily affordable would you be doing what you’re doing now or would you be spending much more of your time in Hawaii? Thank you.
Great question!
If Hawaii was cheaper I would still travel but I might not have sold everything and invested it to travel
It would have required less a jump
What are your thoughts on this ?
@@RetireandGo I absolutely love traveling however i also enjoy a simple home life as well. I would like the best of both worlds too. To have a small home and garden in my home country in NZ and have the means to travel. However NZ has become the whore of very nefarious forces and is totally unaffordable now. So…selling up here in central Europe and I shall let my intuition guide me. Currently learning Spanish in preparation. 😅
Malaysia had become number one for Japanese to move to for a new country...
I did not know this!
I see many cultures for sure
I really enjoy it
So no cars? Interesting, very.
Yes my goodness
No car needed in Asia
You can rent one but with traffic it’s a mess and slow
Just use rail or on foot
You put hundreds in your pocket monthly :-)
And my ties are severed clean
The less I have the more I gain
Off the beaten path I reign
Rover wanderer
Nomad vagabond
Call me what you will
From “Wherever I may Roam” by Metallica
I love this thank you !
Minimalism…you are speaking my language. USA expat in Asia 5 years and loving it. Still holding on to Car in storage. Final product to “Let Go”. I struggle with this decision. Keep or Let Go. Everything else is gone…It’s a Subaru I can turn into light travel car camper for visits back. Maybe I’ll flip a coin. Your Thoughts?
Subarus are nice 4x4 vehicles for camping :-)
is it stressful looking for a new place to stay while traveling and staying in the budget? Although a different sort, I suppose. I definitely want to travel, with a backpack, with no cares or F*ks to give about what I leave behind in the US. I own my home here and that would be a really hard thing to give up, except I do not want to deal with renting/house sitting. I have waffled over that for the past 3 years. I have one more year here in SWFL to make up my mind. I have a contract that runs out in May 2025. Unless something crazy happens. Also I will be 62 and can sign up for SS. Sell it all and travel. Will it still be affordable by then? I also watch Taylors channel, he lives there in KL. He makes it look pretty attractive to live there. I think I would have to do some real traveling before I could settle down. Too much world I have not seen!!!
Great question!
It’s quite chill
When I travel to a new country I find a hotel that’s easy to get to from the airport
Taxi or rail system
I book 3 days so I can just check it out
I support you traveling!
It’s time for you !
You deserve it
Can you maintain a low cost life style on about 2000 a month?is it possible?
Easy
In Southeast Asia very easy
OMG!!! The Monitor Lizard!!! Let's say you were walking through the park and you sat down to enjoy the view. With the warmth of the sun, let's say you dozed off on the hillside. Next thing you know, this lizard slithers its way up to you and you doze off, unaware its nearly on top of you... What's going to happen? Are they dangerous? Will they attack a human? Or how about your little dog on a leash? Seriously...???
It was big ! I was like … dang
Van life night not be minimalism. It could drag you down with a clumsy, gas guzzling vehicle that needs maintenance. And you'd be stuck in a country where lunch is $10-25.
I cook 2-3 dollar lunches at home in America. Only real food.
Interesting yeah I understand
I would try van life in North America I think
@@GUITARTIME2024 Yes! So do I. But in other countries you can get real food at cafes/restaurants for that same $1-2.
Whats monthly budget in malisya
I live in Asia for under $24,000 a year :-)
How to you manage your health insurance as you travel globally?
Great question
I use a travel insurance plan
$100 a month
In the US I paid $600!
@@RetireandGo May I ask which insurance company? There are so many.
No doubt got 2 and a half years to get rid of everything then retire without stress😅
You are on your way to freedom !
Its like having the 300lb gorilla off your back
Very true
I was like… why am I doing this to myself haha
shrink that financial footprint - then you got options. KL, or wherever.
I agree
It really helped me
It was healthy for my brain too
vast greeneries in mlysia are great..nowhere to found in Dubai..London..or even Paris or Singapore..as local I myself love it as much
I understand
In Saudi I searched for any green areas
Can you talk about how Malaysian food compares with Thai food? I am not even sure that is a correct question, given Malaysia’s melting pot status,
Oh yes great point
Lunch in KL is a food cart festivals and at night it happens again !
It is a great idea if you live alone, but for me it would be lonesome.
I understand completely
Get out and meet people :-)
Chat with expats
Make friends in each country
We gotta hook up bro, I'm 5 mins from you. Love to take you around my hood
I will be in Malaysia again this year
It’s so nice !
Do you have social media I can check out?
If You're Not A Consumer, You're Nothing.
Even though you're unhappy and stressed out from that philosophy....
keep on buying more useless stuff.
Amen.
That's what they want you to believe!
Haha yes that’s it :-)
Have a good day
Bro retire here Malaysia... You are welcome
Very kind of you
Malaysia has become part of my life
You seem to be traveling solo. What if you slip on a banana peel? Do you have a will or trust or some other document in place? Perhaps you can do a video on this!
Important point!
1. Communicate with family
2. Family should track you via phone and backpack via AirTag
3. Have travel insurance for emergencies
4. Have documents in order
5. Update US state department website each country
I’ll work on this in a video
Great question !!