I think the thing that got to me most about living abroad was that after a while, the language difference is exhausting. Even though I speak Italian, it took effort. Everything was in Italian. Movies in Italian. And then, I was always an American in another country - a foreigner. Even though I consider Italy my second home, I'm a foreigner. I understand how immigrants here must feel.
I dislike in general that Russia and Canada are so far from each other and flights are very expensive, time zone difference make it hard to recover and do shorter trips, but it is not something easy to change, let alone when there are almost no flights available...
With 90-day tourist stay, it feels like being told by doctor I have 3 months to live. The town, people, scene, sentiment become heightened. I feel simultaneously elated and sad. Every passing day feels like saying good bye, knowing I’d have one less day to be there, perhaps never see it again. It is a weird sensation that doesn’t come with living in a permanent home place. We all have finite time and life but having to move after 90 days truly highlight the fact about limited time on earth.
I lived in Greece for 12 years, and it was , a wonderful experience. It had ups and downs, and I was advised by a psychologist friend to not think about whether I liked it there, or not for the first year. Well, I tried my best to follow that advice, and tried not to compare with the US, and the lifestyle I had here in NYC. The only time my heartstrings were tugged was when I spoke long distance to my best friend or a family member. Eventually, in 2014 I moved back to US-and have regretted that decision to do so. The family members who encouraged me to move back? Well now they totally ignore me, they don't think the way I do, are very closed minded and make no bones that they think I made a mistake by leaving the US. Just goes to show-always follow your gut, not family advice! At least in my case!
Indeed, follow your gut and where your heart leads you 😊 Sorry to hear about your experience, Catherine. Better days are yet to come! I wish you all the best. Thank you for sharing!
I totally agree, at first those family members gather around you because they are curious about your experiences living abroad, but 2 weeks later they disapear fron your life, just like it was before.
Native NYers are crabs in a barrel. They always falsely glorify NY, so that they don't feel bad, and discourage others from leaving. Left 9 years ago and haven't regretted it a bit.
Gotta say you're one of the few travel channels that I take the time to watch past the first few minutes. I feel like your comments and reflections are interesting,well thought out without the fluff or BS of other channels. You're not out here trying to crack jokes every few seconds or get the perfect luxurious footage of you in each country. You talk like a real person with some self awareness.
Wow, thank you so much Normand. I really, really appreciate your feedback and this is motivating me to keep creating! Hopefully one day my videography skills will get a little bit better too ;)
I was going to say the same thing. I just found this channel today, and it doesn't feel schilly or overly scripted like others do. I like your honest reflections.
This one really resonates with me as well... But I remember that I never really felt a sense of belonging in my home country, to begin with, so that’s probably why I left LOL how do you cope with this feeling? As for myself I think too often I’ve relocated, thinking that the next place might be a better fit. And only as I get older do I realize that my sense of belonging can’t be tied to geography
I went to a boarding school as a kid then worked in the offshore and mountain oilfields for decades state side - for 35 yrs I never slept in the same bed for a yr steright - i know that feeling all to well of not fitting in , I never leave home now, I love staying home and sleeping in my own bed every night - if Kristine decides to stay in the states it's going to take her a long time to get rooted to the point she is self confident in those areas - it can take 10 yrs
I miss traveling and I love the caribbean, but the crime made me leave long ago. California is safer but I actually knew more interesting people in my home country and in Europe long ago. Getting old changes my choices. I wonder what will happen next. I’m in the group of people who don’t fit in anywhere,. I do own a house in a liberal state and that is really important to me.
@@gaildelima2755 I know that that feeling well - it's lile a best friend that never goes away I guess it's a thought in our own mind - for 15 yrs I be slept in the same bed at night and never leave the area I'm in so that has helped a lot
Yes, I also can relate. Traveling changes you so that's why the foreign feeling but yet I'm not a born/raised local....it's individual how people respond to me.
I am Black and feel safer anywhere but in the USA. I am an older man and saw racism in the US all my life and now. I now live in Costa Rice and I am happy and feel safer.
That's awesome, good for you... yeah, I'm white , the black people here are so racist...it's terrible ...I don't throw that shit on them... insecure is how I see it.
I agree with you, but it's easier being gay or a woman in the US. I know it seems like the US treat both badly, but they aren't stoned to death for being gay or doing something that a woman shouldn't do.
@@jessicaely2521 As I have grown and understand more about thoughts and labels. I see anything that dose not fit the normal the control is labeled to make you feel less or a outcast. Any real intelligent would not make others feel less.
It can be an extremely lonely lifestyle, regardless of the great sights you get to see and the cool people you meet so briefly. The outsider feeling never goes away either, but just gets stronger. It is a hard balance of trying to understand how lucky you are for experiencing so much, and how sad it can be to float through it all mostly alone and relatively disconnected. I can't imagine the most simple things like buying a sofa of my own or having dinner with people who have known me for more than a couple of months. These are odd things to miss out on, but it is a weird part of being human. Some things about being human do not disappear while living an extraordinary life.
Yes, so true. Personally, I believe that being alone is the essence of the human condition and we only temporarily lose that feeling at points in our life. We want to lose our sense of self and be connected, but honestly, you are right and the main challenge in life is to be at peace with yourself. Have friends, live, love, and all that, but just know that being alone is our true essence. And any feeling of not being alone is transitory. It is a strange life lesson no matter where you are or travel to.
I lived in West Germany for 7 years. Not a day went by when I wasn't asked "When are you leaving?" Finally, after 7 years, when I announced that I was, thankfully, leaving, then everyone said, "Why are you leaving?" The anamolies of living abroad.
Must have been quite some time ago. There hasn't been a West Germany since 1990. I lived there for a few years and no one asked when I was leaving, just what brought me there.
I want to personally thank you for your sidebar about discrimination at 12:12. As a person of color who travels abroad and married to someone from a foreign nation, it is great to appreciate the care and consideration you put into your vidlogs. You are awesome!! All the best.
@@abw48 walk a mile in his shoes. Until you know the pain of being treated as a 2nd class citizen or with utter inhumanity because of your color or culture, and especially to see it happen to your children,you have no right to judge. Amazing how you compound the injustice and hurt by actually criticizing someone for mentioning it. That’s gaslighting if you didn’t know. Someone points out something that’s wrong and they’re rebuked for it or made to think it’s not that bad. It is that bad and so is your comment. Get over YOURself and your lack of empathetic literacy and inability to understand there are different experiences and perspectives besides your own. If you want to believe discrimination isn’t a problem and that it doesn’t hurt people, by all means, continue to walk around in the bubble of your convenience and manufactured reality, but don’t discredit and undermine the reality of someone else’s experience.
@@pdoll96 : Im British and have lived in foreign countries around the entire World since was 17 years old, Im now 73, Ive been in 50 countries, lived in 10 of them, I have been discriminated against because of my culture many times, Ive lived in North America, Central America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and now reside in SE Asia....Neither my ex wife, or current female friends, are British, nor Caucasian... Tell me about it...Ive forgotten more than YOURself will ever learn.. Gaslighting is the new buzz word for snowflakes like YOURself. Grow up already...
Another thing she doesn’t touch on (most likely because she’s young), I’ve heard from older nomads that living abroad they have zero retirement back up plans. They have not accumulated any social security or pension funds from working in one place for a long period of time. Some may think this is trivial until they are pushing late 50’s and realize they don’t have enough savings and will get zero assistance from any government or pension. Something to definitely plan for.
It seems to be a very common thing that people do not bother to find out the rules or do any financial planning before they go somewhere or buy something major. I read an article recently about ( I think it was Australians) complaining France didn't have a reciprocal pension agreement with their country when other countries did and suddenly finding out. The information was readily available for years prior. I can see why this RUclipsr may not touch on it - financial planning for retirement is a huge topic. And as for giving advice - I find most people don't want to spend any time at all thinking about it!
Interesting video but missing some points, including the fact that she's pushing 40 but living as a 20something is not close to reality for most of us who would be parent at this age and having child/children and/or a career to prioritize
I understand you Wonka, appreciate your insights. However, you can still save money while traveling. You might want to check out the video I made about that here: ruclips.net/video/_pYvluN0RIg/видео.html 😊
She may not have been able to express the feeling at the time, but I am certain that your grandmother was thrilled that you were by her side. Those moments are priceless.
Thank you so much; I really appreciate that. She worked for PanAm during the “golden years” of flight and was so pleased that I loved to travel so much!
@@TravelingwithKristin Congratulations on your ability to community your thoughts in a personal, positive and balanced view that many of us nomads have experienced in our foreign community stays.
I was a nomad for 23 years living in a country called “U.S. Army”. Dreams of Jungle and desert landscapes quickly become reality. Free airfare, plague vaccinations, and buddies that travel with you. Sometimes you don’t land with the aircraft but rather by parachute. Definitely miss home & family.
@@TravelingwithKristin Retirement community in San Antonio,TX. My wife and I love to travel. Recent trips prior to pandemic: Russia, Panama. Your channel fascinates me and I have admiration for your knowledge and talent. Stay safe and don’t weaken!
From my well over 40 years of worldwide travels and still continuing to do so heavily, these are very real and valid points. Traveling is an opportunity cost of missed events, yet amazing and gained life experiences and mindsets. There are many mental and physical tips and processes that can help people quickly adapt to unknown and semi permissive environments. Excellent video and thoughts.
@@TravelingwithKristin I have so many thoughts and perspectives on this, but some of the best methods are to stay grounded with a base and self identity and to keep an open mind when traveling. With saying this however, as amazing as travels are, there are always risks. So, thinking outside of the box, staying adaptive, having a contingency plan, and situational awareness make travels in an uncertain world so much more rewarding. I have also missed a lot while away, but we must come to terms with great experiences, good, bad and the frustrating ones too. And, know we became better people because of a deeper appreciation of life, the world, cultures and understanding others.
There is a big difference between traveling and living in another country. None of the listed problems really impact those who move to other countries.
Love this. I've been abroad enough to empathize with all of it. As for coming back, I never was the same--in good ways, but definitely causes a disconnect with family. However, a friend was in Asia for about 12 years and returned, and something I never thought about when you return to your home culture after so long, the culture itself has changed, so you can never truly return home since both it and you are so different.
Haden Wesley: The culture changes slightly, if at all, you on the other hand have changed dramatically, this is why its said, you can never go home again.
After being born and raised in the US - mostly by my German grandma - I have to say.....the very first time I set foot in Germany, I felt right at home. My German improved massively over time, I made many friends in Germany and Austria, and in the end - I never feel out of place anywhere in the Alps. Actually, I feel more at home there than here in the states. I can only guess its because I understand the mentality and humor of the people there. So....I would say it depends how strong someone's familial connection is with a specific culture.
May I ask why you decided to come back to the US? I’m just curious, because she also said in one of her videos that she came back as well. I wonder why people come back if they are truly happy elsewhere?
@@kerrkreissig6077 congratulations on your success, and I hope for many years of happiness to come in your life! That’s inspirational. Thank you for the reply
I like how you hit the hard topics, like discrimination. I did not receive the health care I needed 30 years ago in a country I am a citizen of, because I was "American". It resulted in a systemic disease and losing everything from my health, to my ability to earn an income, to my self-esteem, my mental health and ... Take it seriously. You are right. It is NOT your fault, but it can affect your entire life. We cannot understand the things that other people can make themselves believe, at home or abroad. Don't wait to go home if you need to. Don't wait for someone to help you, because they are paid to do so in their profession. Don't wait thinking that odd person is probably okay... If the time comes that you think you need to get out ... Get out! I love how you aren't afraid to confront difficult topics. I wish the internet and someone like you had been around years ago. Cheers!
Thanks Xe Ray. I appreciate the kind words and glad that you resonated with my content. I'm sorry to hear about your experience before, discrimination is really real. Thank you for watching and for sharing your experiences as well.
After 17 years in another EUR country, I would hate to go back to my birth country, as there's nothing for me there. It's here where I am my life is. If first you've tried to live internationally, you evidently would see people from the old country as being VERY provincial. My center is inside my person , so my home is where I am & live :-)
Just remember that a house is not a home. It's how you make it to be. We could be living in a palace or a castle or mansion, or even in a 2 by 4 apartment. If it's not a home, then it's just a roof over your head. It's a heart move.
I'm glad you touched on the subject of discrimination at @12:20. I've been living in Germany for more than 30 years now, and as a person of color, I've experienced very little discrimination personally. I have known other people of color who have experienced terrible things, but it wasn't anywhere near as what had been going on in the USA for the past years. Naturally, Europe is not a "racism-free zone", but one can encounter more open-minded people (especially the younger generations), and live "normally".
Have never seen Germany as a place of discrimination. But was last there many years ago. . . I don't know if they regressed as we did here in the U.S. I think given the exposing of our underlying "fault lines," the U.S. has always been this way, but it is more obvious and less concealed now. Maybe our grandparents did not know better, but we know better. . or least some of us. Seems like going to different countries and learning about other cultures is similar to getting a bigger picture, and hopefully a vaccination against bigotry and discrimination.
You are all wrong and cannot see the truth. The US has the least discrimination of any country for colored people. Colored below are in high places in Government, education and industry everywhere here....not so in Europe. There are more colored millionaires than anywhere else. I live in Germany and I don't see blacks holding any high positions in the Government, industry, or elsewhere. Most colored people are on welfare here and jobless. Open you eyes man.
I have to admit that I was reluctant to watch your videos initially, but I appreciate your philosophy, depth of knowledge, humility, and perspectives. I especially enjoyed the extended segment about discrimination. Most travel videos ignore the fact that there are BIPOC travelers who actually might be treated better abroad. (Or much worse than white travelers.) I loved everything you said and how you said it! :)
Thank you so much, M. I'm glad the videos have resonated with you. Can you expand a bit on why you were reluctant to watch initially? I'm always looking for constructive feedback especially on thumbnails :)
@@TravelingwithKristin for me it's that you even mentioned it at all really. BIPOC expats and nomads generally do because it's part of day to day life. So I generally seek out BIPOC expats and nomads for their perspectives. It's less common for white expats or nomads to even acknowledge there could be/are challenges for people who aren't white or white presenting. So high five from me for being respectful and just even going there.
Agree with the others. As a POC living in and around Miami, I had to roll my eyes a little in your other video where you said everyone was so friendly to you and are quick to chat you up down here. IMO, that’s a very unique experience for you because you fit the correct profile. However, strangers around Miami aren’t as quick to strike up random conversations with me or my friends on the street, unless it is “What are you doing here.” Or “How can I help you?” If I am in a store. Often very rude for no good reason. This video produced a pleasant sigh of relief when you actually acknowledged that it can be a very different experience for melanated and “other” type travelers both domestic and abroad.
This video really resonated with me. I spent almost four years traveling in my 20’s. I loved investigating every nook and cranny in caves or cenotes in Mexico and Guatemala or observing stoic people in Sweden and looking for stains or imperfections in spotless Denmark. The experiences I had through Central and South America, Europe, and the Middle East were so rich and exciting, and I loved meeting people from all over the world and just investing time with them. I will always treasure my spontaneous journey, I said yes to everything. But at 29, I grew tired of moving around in cheap hostels and short term rentals, or the complications of simple tasks due to language, and the other travelers kept getting younger and could drink and stay up longer or had more energy, and every time I fell in love it was fleeting, plus my resources were depleted. The world started to look and feel ugly to me, and my attitude changed. I was no longer easy going and eager to learn about people and cultures. Instead, I was offended that they expected me to change for them, and I was stubborn. That’s when I knew it was time to come home. I got a job back in my hometown. Then the pandemic happened. I bought a house and I’ve been hunkering down. It’s taken me years to adjust to being back, but my attitude is getting better and my bright-eyed youthful elation and curiosity for the world is coming back, slowly but surely. I’m taking a trip soon, to Austin, TX for a weekend and getting out of my comfort zone again, this time I’m eager to see more of the USA. Thank you, Kristin.
I was born into a nomadic family so I can relate and agree with you. I don’t feel connected to any country in general but I do like the country I am a citizen of. I think rent prices, home prices, job market, even covid has pushed younger people to re-think how to do life.
@@TravelingwithKristin Canada I was born in France and grew up in Montreal and now I live in Toronto Ontario but I have relatives in Madrid both my parents have siblings there but my father was born in Madagascar and his birth certificate is in Paris France. My sister was born in Germany and I lived in New York City, I have seen many states and I drove across Canada five times and worked in every province and spent time near the Arctic circle. I am fluent in French Spanish and English
Kristin, this is so honest and accurate. I found that for me, being an explorer and world traveler was/is part of my identity, and I had to reconcile my growing need to have a home base. Making a place my own even if only a rental has been a slow process. I found that my inability to settle down had (also) to do with unhealed trauma and never having felt that my home growing up was a safe space because of all the drama that was going on. So having my home didn't feel safe to my subconscious mind, if that makes sense. I know everyone's journey is unique and each life is complex, but I have noticed that pattern in other serial travelers and expats. For each one to find their own balance of travels and staying in place, but when the nomadism becomes escapism (which it had for me, or linked to relationships pulling me here or there), it is time to face deeper fears and be willing to try something else.
Great video! Honest direct and impartial. After more than 20 years outside my home country, your words ring true to me. Having a home base is essential for stability. Besos y abrazos.
This was a wonderful and well thought out video. I determined that dating exclusively was pointless during my travels for the very reasons you mentioned. Just making friends was more practical for me.
You did a frank and candid analysis of discrimination in certain foreign countries. It is generally a deal breaker for most people, whether or not they want to stay in that country.
I went through most of what you described. Culture shock and reverse culture shock. Language and culture barriers. Not knowing where I belonged or where I would end up. Fast forward 34 years: I settled in Europe, got citizenship, married with 2 kids, bought a house, now finishing up my career and will retire here. Did a lot of travelling (albeit during vacations or unpaid leave). The 2-week vacation limit is the main reason I didn't want to return to the US. Now I have 6 weeks per year. Looking forward to retirement with plenty of time and money to travel all over Europe, and the occasional trip back to the states.
You are so spot on with the not fitting in - I am 50 and have lived in the US for 42 of those years, but for the other 8 years, I was living in Greece (I was born in the US, btw) through most of my teenage years. The feeling of belonging I felt during those 8 years in the country my family is from was never replicated since. Now, when I visit Greece, I don’t feel that anymore and it’s, like you said, like I don’t fit in anywhere. Not sure I ever will at this point in my life. Thank you for this video - I have never seen what I experience every day put into words so eloquently!
This was a fantastic video Kristin. You are so well spoken and informative. My husband and I sold everything in northern Canada, when our youngest went off to university, and went looking for a new home abroad. We tried Mexico, Ecuador, Panama and the Dominican Republic over the course of 3 years and chose the interior of Mexico. We experienced most of what you listed as reasons for disliking living abroad, but the ones we can add to your list are : increase in violence which threatened our safety, sharp increases in medical insurance, changes in airlines servicing the area, and the 180 degree policy changes regarding expats almost every time the government changed. We were permanent residents, but had to live under a different set of rules and laws. It wore us down as we got older and when my husband was getting ready to retire, we made the heart wrenching decision to sell everything once again and we go back to Canada. That was 8 years ago, and we still miss what we had, but know it will never be that way again if we went back. You are doing such a vital and honest service to the people on your channel…keep up the good work.
@Wende, thank you for sharing your experience, and I'm sorry to hear you had to leave. Factors like the ones you've mentioned can have a significant impact on your life and decisions. Thank you very much for your nice words, and I hope you and your family are doing well. Sending warm hugs to Canada!
1. i DO have family in the USA....two children and grandchildren. I learned from my first child who was still single at 45 and had moved all the way to Hawaii that he was not going to stay where he grew up. MY younger daughter joined the military and moved cross country to different billets every four yrs so her children were born in different places. Unless I was going to be a camp follower I was never going to be able to,have close relationships with them so that eliminated family expectations as a reason to stay in the USA. 2. I bought a property abroad and my husband and I had it renovated....at 63,it was the very first home I ever actually OWNED no mortgage. 3. Relationships and Friendships...my husband and I are are closer and happier than we ever have been these last two decades of our 40 yr relationship. We have close family like relationships with a ccoupl of local families and expats here too, then we have less intimate social friends again locals and expats so all our emotional needs are well met. 3. Yes you are not considered a local until someone knows you well . Culture shock when you go home to visit...the longer you are away, the more profoundly you feel the changes at home....I dont feel American anymore I feel half Latina inside and half American . 4. I dont feel discrimination here. I do know people here who dont know me assume I am rich, just looking at me. Blonde people are assumed to be upper class here, Americans are universally assumed to be rich except by sophisticated local professionals who know better...I take measures when I am around poorer people here, I dress and act humbly to try to downplay that reaction. 5. It took us two years to get over the honeymoon period...since we were renovating a house our third through eigthyear the first two years of that second phase we hit the wall of adjustment in terms of getting things done in a timely manner. That is the stage when most Americams give up and go home. Eventually you understand the ropes and adjust to them. 6. Not getting ripped,off...you learn how to cope. You know the measures to take and you know the local prices of things more and more. If it is inconsequential to,you to,pay more and you want it you do...mostly I will not pay more than market price for things so others dont so easily get ripped off. 7. I am fluent in everyday interactions...I lack philosophical, legal, medical and emotional terminology in Spanish...practical stuff I am good. 8. I dont like to be a spokesperson for the USA esp since I disagree with much USA policy as it affects this country. And yes it is a big part of why I no longer live in the USA...the USA I knew, loved and felt proud of is long gone.....9. I also dont like paying US taxes....my tax domcile should be this country. 10. The end game....I plan to die here but I am WAAAY older than you....73. I love this country so much, this life. I feel privileged to have found this gorgeous life I have...I worked long and hard for it in the US saved, invested and watched my expenditures living under my means my entire life so I COULD do this and it paid off for me in my current quality of life. I wouldnt change a single thing.
So helpful! Thank you for sharing your experience with everyone who is reading who is considering making a similar life change. In case you missed it, you might also like this video on the positives of living abroad ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
Funny to hear this after having dinner with a nomad friend last night who has just decided to hang up her nomading shoes for now. She's really craving having a place of her own and not always feeling unsettled. Most of those downsides don't really apply to me. That might be because we've only been doing this for years and it also definitely has to do with being in our fifties. With only parent still alive between us there isn't that much that we're missing out on. As for the other minuses which you so thoughtfully discuss, we've definitely felt some of them. But the pros of getting to live in a mountain town like Bansko for three months, then on a beach in Thailand for another three and then southern Italy simply overwhelm the cons. And not to get political, but being outside of the US is just such a huge plus that it also makes the minuses seem miniscule. ~M
Wise words, Brent! I probably should have underlined this a few more times in the video, but I definitely think that the pros outweigh the cons 😊 Do I know the nomadic friend you’re referring to? I can definitely empathize!
@@TravelingwithKristin Hi Kristin, That comment is actually from me -- I think our co-owning our RUclips channel causes some login problems. I'm pretty sure you don't know her though we met her through a Bansko friend.
Your videos really made me think and brought me back in time. I have been living back in the US since 2011. Before that I lived in the UK for 11 years; it was suppose to be for a year or 2. While I was there I bought a house, got married to an incredible Belgian girl and we had a kid. Life has pulled me back to back to Virginia where I grew up, along with my Belgian wife. She is having her own "shadow walk" by moving to the US, she had assimilated to the UK and is now trying to figure out where she belongs again. Coming back to the US was hard, it is still hard after 11 years. Living abroad changes you. I always explain it like; imagine you can hover invisible above yourself watching exactly what "YOU" say and do while at a party. That is what it is like to be an American living abroad and seeing your country through a foreign media or the thoughts and comments of locals that you know. Being at a party and having fun and all of a sudden being pulled into a conversation to be asked to explain what your country is doing or what it has done. You find yourself defending things you don't want to defend because you are an American; or conversely if I felt I could not support something my country was doing I would feel like I was a bad American (Not a traitor but not a true American, but most certainly not a local. I was "teamless"). Living abroad and travel in general is a giant lesson in self reflection and learning about ones Id. Your commentary does this expertly while exploring the world of travel. Fabulous videos; please keep them coming.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences, @Matthew. I really appreciate it. I completely understand how you feel, and many others, especially expats, share your sentiments too. I'm so delighted you liked my video and resonated with it. I'll be posting new videos soon! Feel free to subscribe 😊
I'm so happy to have come across your video. I've been away from the US for the last 5-6 years, and remade a new life first in France, and now working in Africa. The feeling of being an outsider and being in between cultures has grown in me more and more. Living in France for the last 5 years, I've felt more and more European and less American, but i'm not 100% French; revisiting family in the very rare moments I can have made me feel like a stranger at times while with family and within the very culture that i've grown up in. I'm not sure where I fit in anymore. But like you said, you make your home wherever you are... But it's an odd feeling being a traveler, pursuing your passions, yet the downsides are often feelings of loneliness, a lack of intimacy or long term connection compared to others that have been settled and rooted in one place longer with longer-term social circles. That's something I've struggled with, especially when seeing my family and friends and feeling so different and less like the American me that I could have been had I never left.
Thank you so much for this particular video, as an aspiring expat I needed the reality check to pinch me as I have only experienced the “Honeymoon stage“ of living in another country for a very short time and was basing my plans on that experience alone. You basically answered questions that I didn’t even know that I had. I now feel a better informed on the future choices that I will make. Well done. Thanks again.
If you ever wonder what's the biggest incentive to traveling abroad, she does an amazing job of representing it... expanding your perspective, wisdom, and heart.
My partner and I have been in 27 countries in 17 years, often repeatedly and extensively, and I was an almost constant traveler for twenty years before. I only initially felt I wasn’t fitting in. By staying in a place for months rather than weeks and days, and coming back often, people accepted me and invited me in, and some thought I lived there. It’s nice to walk up to a counter or get out of a cab or into a show and have the operator give you a small discount because, “You’re local now.” About the only thing I dislike about my travel life is that when I’m in one place, I miss my friends in other places and the fact they can’t get to know each other along with me. I’ve often imagined heaven as being where all my friends, living and gone, can be together in one happy place. When I come back to a place after a lengthy absence there is a bit of distance, but after a week or ten days everything is as before. I’m a white American and have little problem with discrimination, but my non-white travel friends constantly do and it’s threatening. When I come across a racist person it’s useless to argue with them and an announcement to me that I don’t need to know them. I’m not good at languages and hate this problem more than any other. The learning curve can mainly be viewed as a kind of fun challenge, but language is capable of killing anything and everything. But I’ve loved my travel life and now have “homes” in several countries with a circle of friends and reasonable skill in navigating the differences. The Pandemic has sabotaged that, but we’ll be able to pick it all up again.
Thank you for sharing, Robert. You make some very good points. Did you see the video on the positive sides of living abroad? ruclips.net/video/bogAhFC7rB8/видео.html I agree I'm looking forward to traveling again soon :)
18 year living in the US and becoming Dual Citizen 2 years ago, we are still not fully accepted and we still feel like foreigners here! It is indeed a constant struggle! We live in between 2 worlds! When we go home to Germany once a year we feel meanwhile foreign as well in certain places and at certain times! You are absolutely right on the ‘feeling home’ part! Your video is on point!
The way I rationalize paying taxes to the US even though I live in Europe is twofold. Firstly, I am a sommelier and wine buyer and I work with several US importers. Second, until I went to a private university and graduate school, I attended public schools and utilized some of the public services made available. Now it is my turn to contribute to these social programs so others have the same opportunities as did I. Just an afterthought, since I served in the Marine Corps, there are many VA services that I was able to utilize. Semper Fi 🇺🇲
Solid thinking there, Greg. Thank you for sharing. PS, want to be friends? 😄🍷 I'm a fan of wine haha (and that Somm documentary). Just did a podcast with my friend about Bordeaux and St Emilion: (first 5 min or so) www.badassdigitalnomads.com/how-to-make-any-business-location-independent/
@@TravelingwithKristin, it would be great to connect. My forte is Italian wines. My heritage is Spanish wines, and my passion is Georgian wines. By the way, how did you like Bulgarian wines? I will send you a video I did on wine. 🍷 Gaumarjos! ( cheers in the Georgian language)
I was able to relate to all the points you made including the fact that after living almost thirty years in the US, I still feel like an outsider. That is also true not only here in the US , but also now in my country of origin.
Me too. My closest friends have died or moved to other countries in Europe. I love the Caribbean and I have close relatives in Florida, but it’s hard to pack up to leave California. I’m bored though. I will wait for now.
Excellent video! As someone that travelled and lived around the world as a consultant I can relate with all the points you so well made, including why I married so late in life and have a young son. Said that, I wouldn't change the experience I had for anything and videos like yours just send me back to those days. Keep up the great work!
Wonderful, Dori! Thank you for sharing your journey - I love hearing about other people's experiences and how much we have in common despite traveling at different times and places
Great video, Kristin, thank you again. Before living abroad on my own, I moved 17 times while in the Army, but also owned two homes, so I've even been on the OTHER side of that having your own home equation. Having done it, yes, it has its perks--and I think, no matter what I do, I WILL own something once I hit my late 50s/60s, even if it's a moveable tiny home. But trust me, you are right to believe there is also something liberating in NOT owning a home and having a zillion possessions. Age and years of experience may lead you to evolve on which side of that is more important to you. I concur with everything you say--every single point (the dwindling family invites and country rep comments were particularly spot-on. Uber drivers are my favorite "What's with Trump?" inquisitors). Somewhat sadly, after 30 years of moving, I simply no longer make friends in any place that I won't be staying at least 6 months or more (I used to be super-involved, like my mom, in church groups and other social clubs, and it became harder and more gut-wrenching each time I left). I've learned to say good-bye more easily, but still, my soul just isn't willing to make that investment too easily now. I had a similar experience to your Santorini one when I lived in Stari Grad one winter--it was bittersweet.
Hi @mctaguer! Glad you liked the video and you are welcome! It's always my pleasure to share this video with you. Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights on the topic as well. I appreciate it!
You have great insight. I am an American who lived in Japan for 2 years and loved it. I have traveled to Asia, Europe and Mexico. I think the main thing to keep in mind is that there is no paradise no matter where you live. Japan was great, but you basically have no privacy at all in the large cities. Europe is great, but the salary does not compare to the USA for the same job. The USA is great, but it has a lot of problems including wealth disparity, racism, polarizing political views, extreme regulations and taxes and many issues related to the cost of education and health care.
@@TravelingwithKristin The USA is not a good place to live if you’re a retiree on a fixed income. Housing and healthcare costs are ridiculous. The USA is a culture of selfishness and greed, with the primary focus on money and materialism. My friends, also retirees, moved to Portugal in 2018 and say the will never return to America for the reasons mentioned above. Thomas Morrison hit on some great points. However, I wish I could afford to join my friends in Portugal.
Folks can discriminate towards outsiders in any location! Even when they believe they are open and ‘liberal’ - get real! And if countries continued to stir the historical pot there would be no peace!
I’ve never known someone living abroad like me that has the same understanding about a lot of things you speak about in this video. It’s a kind of “I’m not crazy, I’m not the only one” and that’s so important! Love your videos!!
You have a wonderful channel! You've brought up so many points I agree with and then SOME, I had never considered. Language is a biggie, money conversion I found out about Haaa! And traveling within your area, although I just found out about getting the International Driver Permit, it only covers so many countries. I've definitely been pushing this idea around on my plate about traveling abroad. I like this series you're doing. Pros and cons, even traveling coast to coast in the US, you run into some of these situations. I did that after graduating school, cross country 6 times. I had a blast, but it's not without it's drawbacks at times as well. Thank you for your channel! Very helpful. 🌸
Hi Whitewolf! Thanks for watching. I am glad you resonated to some of my points and you found my channel helpful. Please feel free to subscribe. I share more topics in my podcast as well: www.badassdigitalnomads.com/ Thanks for sharing your own insights as well.
the ultimate question, what to do after traveling for twenty years, when the world becomes a small place, when you've seen it all...most people live their whole life working so that one day they can travel, when that day comes they are too old to travel, they don't have the physical strength or desire to wander around endlessly, those who forgo working, travel at an early age, have nothing to look forward too, after twenty years, they too old to start a family, they have seen and experienced it all...
@@TravelingwithKristin if you like the work you are doing (10 ways you make money online) and still enjoy living in different countries, keep doing it for another twenty years, BUT buy a place of your own in a place you like (a condo with an ocean view, if you like the ocean, or a condo in the city, if you like city life, or a small house with some acreage, in the country, if you like the country), in the mediterranean, the caribbean, europe, asia, latin america, usa, and DON'T airbnb or rent it out, that way when you travel you will always have a HOME to come back to, that is YOURS, set up the way you want it, even if you don't rent it out, which i don't recommend, it's still an investment...have you already done this? if not there's your answer...
What you said about not 100% fitting in anywhere, even back home, after living abroad is one of the strangest things I experienced and another expat once told me it's like opening Pandora's box, once opened you can never go back to how you were, how you felt, or even who you were as a person before. It can be a confusing feeling. It's one of the few negatives though, mostly living abroad has been positive for me.
@@kubasniak It really does sometimes. My Dad's family were immigrants to the UK where I grew up, so I kind of had a taste but now I really feel like I don't belong anywhere. In some ways it's liberating and it's odd to watch tribal nationalism from an outside perspective but other times it can feel isolating and everyone else belongs except you, whether that's where you are or where you came from either. Ye it sucks.
We also traveled so much and never had a home and never benefited from the equity build-up and you fall behind economically. Homelessness is a blessing and a curse.
I'm so impressed with how articulate you are about all these different things. In my travels abroad I have experienced many of the things you've described here at different times, in different places, and I always came home to the States more open minded and accepting of people in general. I know one major thing I've personally experienced everytime I traveled was that I was happy to come home and have a home where people knew me as a local. I get homesick, what can I say?! 😂❤️
A thought on home: "Home is not where you are born; home is where all your attempts to escape cease." - Naguib Mahfouz (1911-2006) - Egyptian writer & novelist; won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1988.
Very true. I've lived abroad in Japan for 20 years now and share a lot of your feelings. Being here a little longer maybe than you stayed in one place, I've been fortunate enough to get treated more like a local in a few bars/cafes that I've frequented over the years, but you're totally right, especially about racism and often being treated like an outsider.
I feel ya on #3, 5, and6 . It’s such an odd conflict, the two different pulls between the desire for freedom to explore and the desire for a solid home base where you really feel a sense of belonging long-term.
your life experience has given you some wisdom about humanity and the world, and I'm glad you are sharing that gift of wisdom. Many people say that their lives were impacted by someone else's hard-earned experience, and you may not get direct feedback about it since it takes years to realize these things, but please share your gift as many ways as you can. :)
Being your country's representative is an absolutely huge one - SO many people make their entire judgement of a nation based on interactions with a single person. We're British, and when visiting Poland a few years back several people grilled us about Brexit, asking for various info, whether we supported it or not, etc. We found that we had to lie and say "oh we didn't vote, we don't really follow politics" in order to get people off our back.
One of best discussions of the difficult issues facing people who decide to live abroad. I think those who are older, married and retiring abroad are focused on particular issues such as long term Heath while younger single types that have to work abroad.may be focused more on dating and recreational activities. But you nailed all the big issues that could apply to all persons! Congrats on a well done discussion.
I absolutely, love your videos they are just phenomenal. You’re videos are extremely well planned, and thought out and well spoken thank you for the clarity and the advice.
Very accurate list, after 20 years abroad I can say this list is 100% accurate. You old life freezes in time too. When I’m back I visit my friends from high school, but they don’t talk to one another anymore. After having a life that is constantly new, it’s hard to imagine life in my old city, it seems like life would be so boring. Also being from Canada I am uncertain how easy it will be to establish relationships with doctors, it sounds like the medical system in Canada has gotten challenging.
Thanks Clay, glad you were able to relate. It's definitely a strange set of problems to have but there are good things about living abroad, too :) ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
Hi, Kristin, I’ve really enjoyed your insightful videos. I have traveled a bit and generally for 6 months at a time. I often have that feeling of wanting so desperately to feel like a local and get to know the undercurrent of the place. I have also come to the conclusion that no matter how long I am somewhere, I am never truly a local. I lived in New England for 7 years and always felt like an outsider. I have also met people who are experts at settling in right away and make dozens of friends, join clubs etc. and seem to become part of the fabric of a community instantaneously. One thing I have noticed is that expats glom onto other expats because we are a defacto community craving connection and it’s just easier with others who “get it”. Thanks so much for this video!
Glad you liked the video Jennifer and thanks for sharing you experience and insights. I think this one is the most common feeling we all feel but there will always be better days. Hope you are safe.
Thank you , Kristin, for your honesty. I really appreciate it regardinging discrimination. It is a very real thing and the more we are open and talk about it the better off we are.
This reminded me of how just after moving to another state, I was invited to a cousin's wedding but unable to go, because at the time I had no job (had fled abuse), so no money for a ticket, and my health was poor. I told her I couldn't afford to go and apologized, but then a few years later, a different cousin got married. This time, I was able to attend. And the previous cousin whose wedding I missed kept her back to me the whole time. It's like she didn't comprehend that I was actually physically too poor to attend hers, even though I explained it to her. I think she still holds it against me to this day... 🤔 Guessing a fair amount of people who move away experience stuff like this.
This video was outstanding. There was a lot of good information in it, but the best part was your grace and how you carried yourself being completely honest about things that bother you and things you dislike. I absolutely love that we can see you emotions and purity through out. Thank you. #Travelingwithkristin
Thank you for writing me back. You just made my day and probably my whole week! I've had others write me back and I appreciate them, but you are celebrity status to me. I can't stop smiling.😁❤️thank you again you're amazing!!! #Travelingwithkristin
Thank you so much for your videos--I related strongly to this one. I lived for 6 months in Berlin while finishing my doctorate in philosophy, then 6 years in Cape Town where I rented a house and worked. As you said, no matter how long you stay somewhere, you will always be something of an "outsider" to the locals--the moment I opened my mouth people knew I was not German or South African! Sometimes that wasn't an issue, but if the cultural climate was at all cliquish, it could be an automatic way to be excluded and left out. The flipside of living abroad are all the opportunities you've brought up in other videos (lower costs of living, better access to healthcare, slower pace of life). My husband and I are now considering moving to Germany permanently to live and work remotely--this second time around I am more aware of what to expect and what to watch out for. I appreciated also your point about discrimination, this is something I always investigate ahead of time to try and avoid places where we'd be treated badly because of homophobia--I never experienced any problems along those lines in Germany or South Africa (in fact South Africa was the first place I ever felt like an equal because of their inclusive constitution and public policies). Anyway, thank you again for your videos, they have been very helpful and insightful!
You're welcome, @MrMfwettlaufe! I am glad that my content were able to help and you resonated with it. Thanks for sharing your experiences as well. All the best!
Why does it have to be one way? My suggestion is my partner joins the nomad ways, but keeping my partner’s home as a base (with appropriate financial considerations for both parties)
Excellent, thought-provoking, and serious video. As an architect who has traveled extensively, I completely agree with your observations and that emotionally it could be tough not to have roots, emotionally and physically.
"Language Barriers" - I had a good chuckle about Spanish being your default to "foreign language". That happened to me when I moved to Germany and the only language I took in HS and college was Spanish. I automatically responded with horrible Spanish when Germans would speak to me. Language barriers also were the cause for a number of relationship breakdowns. You may think that your subtleties come across as understood, but they don't and vice versa for the other person.
First off, I am so sorry for your loss. 🙏🏾 I agree its tough being away from family & friends. I can truly say, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Hello from Colombia. 1. When I walked on the sidewalks in Bogota, people looked at me like I was an opportunity. 2. What is the end game? Good question. I really don't know and I know that I need to prepare for other stages of life such as retirement. 3. Economic struggles. They are commonplace but more uncertain when you are a stranger in a strange land. 4. Social life is hit and miss. Here today, gone tomorrow. You are just a temporary resident. 5. I laugh when someone here sees me walking and tries to speak in English. "Hey friend!" They are testing my friendliness to know if they can approach me and either try to sell me something or ask for a handout.
Great share Kristin. This video is very much needed as many people's perspectives are that we are living the perfect lifestyle. I am only 20 months into my own journey ( I will be 57 this month ) so my situation, my character, my background is very different to yours, I may at some point experience these things. The advantages I have at the moment, are no family left to speak of, just one 43 year old nephew and my 29 year old son. I am an introvert, I don't socialise that often. I try not to stay more than 1 month in any one place, for the fear of getting too attached and never leaving. Plus I know there are many more wonderful people i still have to meet, ( got to share the love ) I still love owning so little. less than 100 itemised items. Dating, I have dated two local ladies, 1 Italian and 1 Spanish, they both knew my lifestyle and they both knew I would leave at some point, so we went into it with our eyes open, so there was no awkwardness at the end and we are still in touch. I know what you mean about not feeling quite like a local, to join in with the banter, camaraderie that they have, yes I miss that part from England, but not enough to stay longer ( yet ) I have never fitted in anywhere with the exception of Italy, so that's ok. Only discrimination so far was my age back in the UK, then again I am white and male. My two uncertainties, are if I get badly injured, I have no home to return to heal, and what my next source of income will be ( I am ok for 3-5 years )
Great to hear from you, Dan; quite the journey awaits you! I’m glad you have had many positive experiences; will be interesting to see if your travel itinerary changes over the years. Keep us posted!
@@TravelingwithKristin Cheers Kristin. Is this the best place to keep you posted? I have a flight to Brazil on the 20th pending a PCR test. I was trying to get to Argentina. If I manage to make it to the America's. I don't plan to fly for a long time. My plan is to stay at least 2 years, ideally 5, as my goal is to live in every Spanish speaking country for at least 1-3 months, even though 1 of them is in Africa.lol. I have told myself I am not allowed to leave until I am fluent in Spanish, so I could be there for the rest of my life, yo studio espanol todos los dias, agora for tres meses. Bless you :-)
Although I haven't lived abroad personally, the idea of missing out on events in your family or with close friends at home would definitely be the biggest downside to it. It would be hard to not be around family a lot of the time or only see them once a year possibly. For me missing family would be tough, but fortunately most of my friends are all over the place which would make things a little easier. Fortunately, all the downsides you have listed I feel would not outweigh all the benefits of living abroad even if it is only part-time. I really enjoyed this one as well as the other one you did!
Thank you, Scott! Yes for sure - I love having friends all around the world and don't regret meeting anyone, but it can be a trade-off sometimes being far away from family and other friends. I definitely agree that the pros outweigh the cons, though!
@@TravelingwithKristin Yes, I can see that. . Sometimes I think had I stayed behind with my friends and family. . . . But, there is a kind of insular sense when you stay in the same place. Anyone who has left often understands, but would not return, because seeing the diversity and experiencing it just opens the mind. Wish there was a nomadic home to float around in--wait. . there is!!!
Thank you for doing the due diligence in highlighting the need for research in deciding where to travel. We all will face discrimination in some form eventually, however, some places are more volatile and overall dangerous depending on where you're from and what you look like.
expat for about 4o years, you are very real, living abroad is still worth it because going back , after such a long time is not possible or wanted. glad to see you on the road again,from Berlin
I am an expat since 2004. Lived in 4 countries and planning on going to Portugal or Spain next year. There is a lot of trade-offs living this lifestyle but you will also see and understand things that most people never will. Many are jealous of your freedom yet many people do not understand how much you've got to give up. Loneliness is one thing you've got to deal with. But meeting other expats and dating them is also a great experience even if you never see them again. There will come a time everyone will settle down.
I some video on Portugal & Spain that might help: ruclips.net/video/Q2v_A-iHGvc/видео.html & ruclips.net/video/VH9tBtk5yq4/видео.html Thanks for sharing your insights! Indeed there will be trade-offs.
I know a woman who lived in Turkey for about 7 years and she realized only after a failed romance that she really didn't belong there - and worse that she had chewed through most of her 30's and had to attempt to start over dating in the US - but she can't *really* start over at age 37. She had these interesting experiences, but no home, no mate. She didn't spend much of her inheritance, but didn't have much saved up from lower COL in Turkey either.
This is the best channel of RUclips. Kristin, you are very thoughtful, great content, great presence and insight. I instantly became a fan! Thanks for all that you do :-)
Cool little animations ;) I spent 7 years between Italy and England. I miss how friendly neighbors were over there though compared to here. Our neighbors had us over all the time, whereas here, it almost never happened. Feeling of having a home is a big one though, I can definitely relate to that too. This video brought back a lot of memories of living overseas. Thanks for sharing!
@@TravelingwithKristin Missouri. I'm working on a digital agency business, and photography and video, and hope to be freed from living here in 6-9 months. I always joked if I was ever single again, I was going to go back and find a woman in Prague lol. Didn't expect that to come up though. I've never been overseas single, I can see how dating could be tough though. Listening through the rest of this video, wow, yeah, can really relate to more of it. We could share stories, for sure :)
I live in MX. I don't like having to cross the border every 6 months. I don't like the fact, In order to receive temporary residency, one has to fly out of MX, go to the USA, spend a bunch of money and time to only find out the judge on that particular day just happens to be in a bad mood which can result in a big fat rejection. MX is getting much harder to receive a temporary residency card. With their stricter rules, it makes life harder, unless one has bags full of money, which I don't. I live in East Cape in BCS. I moved here to windsurf. The quality of living, for me, is wonderful during the winter and sucks in the summer when the heat is so extreme, I find myself so miserable that I want to go back to the states. However, todays cost of living in the US has become so high, there would be no way I could ever find a place outside of MX. I have lived here 5 years. Prices are outrageous and clothing costs are way too much for the bad quality. I am not saying all goods are made of bad quality just most are. I am completely lost. I want to move to a dog friendly country without paying an arm and a leg. Equador, sounds kind of good. The people, are friendly for the most part. We have have had a lot of theft and pick pickpocketing happens more and more. BC dogs are free to run and are scary when a dog is chasing you, attacks your dogs and bark incessantly through the night.
Sorry to hear about your current situation, Margot and thanks for sharing. I heard a lot of people also choosing to live in Mexico because of high cost of living.
Loneliness was my biggest disappointment and if your not fluent in the local language can make communication difficult but I never stopped trying. Then met the love of my life who spoke English...She is from the city but we both found the common ground that we both love nature...NOW if we can only travel if airfare wasn't so damn expensive and borders not so complicated to cross or even to cross
There is another level of complexity regarding to discrimination and racism. Having the clarity to discern between ignorance vs. racism vs. xenophobia and also being able to read the intentions is going to be crucial to avoid going crazy. This is very commonly conflated, and it is important to understand the difference between them. For example, hasty generalizations or "stupid" questions are not neither racism nor xenophobia, it is just ignorance, and even though it might be exasperating, if there is no malice, we shouldn't get offended. If they are just curious and ignorant, just educate them. Just take a deep breath and explain to them what you already explained to his fellow countrymen for the 92828th time. Xenophobia is defined "fear" of the strange/foreign, which has a biological basis as a reaction for survival, which is usually translated to distrust, disgust or dislike for foreigners, just because they are different, not because of their race per se. Racism on the other hand is another animal, it would be defined as feeling that other "races" are inferior to yours. From all these three groups, it will be very *EXTREMELY* common to find well-intended but very ignorant people who are just curious about where you are from (they could say "hey, why are you so black" or "why do you look like this" or "you speak English so well!"), and it will also be *very common* to encounter xenophobia in foreign countries as a natural defense mechanism especially in homogeneous societies (they might be all super friendly if you are a tourist, but that could suddenly change when they realize you are actually becoming a resident, for example in Japan), but actual racism won't be as common. Sometimes in these countries true racism is against a specific group, and because you don't belong to it, you will never feel it. In East Asian countries for example there is a blatant racism against South Asians, and believe it or not, Asians with a darker tone (even if it just tan) are perceived as "low class". Another issue that will cause even more confusion to those who can't read between the lines and/or have difficulty interpreting the intentions behind the words, _what matters is not what they say but how they say it and what actually it means by it._ For example in some countries some "racist" or "rude" expressions might not have the intention to be insulting, but actually mean the opposite; it might signal that you are accepted in their intimate circle in the group as an equal. In Latin American countries, you will routinely hear calling "gordo, negro, petiso, enano, chino (to all asians), etc..." things that would be considered completely rude at face value if literally translated to your native language, but the fact that they are calling you like that is just because they feel that you are now part of the pack and they are being extremely informal. Learning to read the context and the intentions behind the expressions will save you from embarrassing situations, just look at their eyes and see if they are being friendly.
I have travelled with friends abroad and have never been discriminated against. But, if I travel alone, I have been discriminated against for being American. More than once. I am caucasian and it was from certain individuals from a few European countries and Australia. Not only in their country, but while they were also abroad. The discrimination was all based on preconceived notions. Most of them, after they got to know me, they apologized and said I was not a typical American (which still hurt to hear). All my life I have welcomed people from other countries to the United States when they were/are visiting as a student or on a work visa. It was tough to take this discrimination the first time it happened to me. But, the more I have travelled, the more I have been prepared for it.
Well summarized! I could produce books on this subject. One niggling aspect of the living abroad experience is never being satisfied just living in the US again. After a while, the urge to move on to something more stimulating gets strong. At the same time, you wonder what you're missing if you're not there. Missing those high marks of your own culture makes you wonder, sometimes.
Thank you; definitely pros and cons did you see the videos about coming back to the US? ruclips.net/video/DO5x_tJBn7w/видео.html And the positives of living abroad? ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
@@TravelingwithKristin Actually, I did. I made a big mistake when I, for better or for worse, repatriated. And frankly, it took years to readapt. Your videos capture the essence of this experience, though I have experience with only one country to your broader experience with many. Someday, I'll write that book.
completely agree with number 3, I felt that a lot... yes! you get used to seeing up quickly but it gets tired leaving all the time and having to say goodbye... These are very real downsides..if you're leaving constantly, it's hard to keep relationships..you hit all the points!!! I like feeling like an outsider. It makes me different :) thanks for your video
Just found your videos and I think they are very insightful and informative. As a Puerto Rican-New Yorker, I can relate to your time in Costa Rica. I retired from the Marines Corps in 2000. I have been to 12 countries and lived in 6 countries anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. My favorite place was the Philippines. I rented a house, dated local girls, and traveled the many Islands. You struck a never when you described living in Japan. I have been to Japan 6 times throughout the 1980s and their "habit" of getting up from a set on a bus when I or my buddies sat down was so obvious back then (I can't believe they're still doing that crap). Or seeing signs on local bars' (drinking holes) windows "Japanese Only" or "Private Club (harking back to the Southern US)." Marines tend to ignore signs like this and it got to a point where I got tired of walking around and I just walked in and order a Saki. There were about 10 people in the bar, mostly older timers. The guy at the bar served me but never talked to me or ask me to leave. I banged back the shot, I got up and left. I did it just to do it and I never returned. Back then we wrote it off as their response to WWII and/or our massive military presence in Japan. The local base workers, on the other hand, were more welcoming. They took you to their house, feed you, sung songs on their karaoke machine, and got wasted on our JD. The younger generation was more open to us as well and loved to party because we had the Jack Daniels and Johnny Walker Black. For what it's worth, I think you did a great job on the discrimination issue. As a Puerto Rican-New Yorker, the local Puerto Ricans on the island tends to snub their noses at PRs born in the continental US and are told we're not "real" Puerto Ricans. I guess the more things change, the more they remain the same. I wish you the best of luck as you leave Costa Rica.
Thank you for sharing your experience Henry. Glad you also enjoyed traveling and living abroad. The Philippines is indeed a beautiful tropical country with friendly folks. Your experience in Japan was spot on too. Thank you for watching Henry and appreciate you leaving a comment. 😊
It's not just the prices in the USA, it is safer living just about anywhere I go. You are single, so life is easier, but many men in the USA are not in a happy marriage and heavily in debt, so I am really thankful to be single, living abroad. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
Another great video! Thank you for sharing and doing so good job:) For me the worst was being away from my family. Many times I needed a hug but they were far away.
The parallel universe...that’s so true, that feeling of not belonging to any place (when coming back). I’ve missed home so much, came back and realized I was missing memories, things from the past, because the present is totally different, and it’s very hard to re-adapt. Will be leaving soon again :) Happy to find your videos!
Glad to know you found my videos and you enjoyed them Mihaela! Indeed it can be the memories that makes us miss our homes so much. Hopefully you feel better soon knowing that you are not alone. Safe travels to you!
![How I See the US After Living Abroad for 15 Years [CULTURE SHOCK]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/DO5x_tJBn7w/mqdefault.jpg)
![How I See the US After Living Abroad for 15 Years [CULTURE SHOCK]](/img/tr.png)
What do you dislike about living abroad or something you're worried about? Comment below and I'll give any advice I can 🙂
Keep On Rockin the Free World keep on making great videos my love..
You are representing the USA so keep it classy !
I think the thing that got to me most about living abroad was that after a while, the language difference is exhausting. Even though I speak Italian, it took effort. Everything was in Italian. Movies in Italian. And then, I was always an American in another country - a foreigner. Even though I consider Italy my second home, I'm a foreigner. I understand how immigrants here must feel.
I dislike in general that Russia and Canada are so far from each other and flights are very expensive, time zone difference make it hard to recover and do shorter trips, but it is not something easy to change, let alone when there are almost no flights available...
With 90-day tourist stay, it feels like being told by doctor I have 3 months to live. The town, people, scene, sentiment become heightened. I feel simultaneously elated and sad. Every passing day feels like saying good bye, knowing I’d have one less day to be there, perhaps never see it again. It is a weird sensation that doesn’t come with living in a permanent home place. We all have finite time and life but having to move after 90 days truly highlight the fact about limited time on earth.
I lived in Greece for 12 years, and it was , a wonderful experience. It had ups and downs, and I was advised by a psychologist friend to not think about whether I liked it there, or not for the first year. Well, I tried my best to follow that advice, and tried not to compare with the US, and the lifestyle I had here in NYC. The only time my heartstrings were tugged was when I spoke long distance to my best friend or a family member. Eventually, in 2014 I moved back to US-and have regretted that decision to do so. The family members who encouraged me to move back? Well now they totally ignore me, they don't think the way I do, are very closed minded and make no bones that they think I made a mistake by leaving the US. Just goes to show-always follow your gut, not family advice! At least in my case!
Indeed, follow your gut and where your heart leads you 😊 Sorry to hear about your experience, Catherine. Better days are yet to come! I wish you all the best. Thank you for sharing!
Why not go back to Greece Catherine?
I hope all is well in life now!
I totally agree, at first those family members gather around you because they are curious about your experiences living abroad, but 2 weeks later they disapear fron your life, just like it was before.
Native NYers are crabs in a barrel. They always falsely glorify NY, so that they don't feel bad, and discourage others from leaving. Left 9 years ago and haven't regretted it a bit.
Gotta say you're one of the few travel channels that I take the time to watch past the first few minutes. I feel like your comments and reflections are interesting,well thought out without the fluff or BS of other channels. You're not out here trying to crack jokes every few seconds or get the perfect luxurious footage of you in each country. You talk like a real person with some self awareness.
Wow, thank you so much Normand. I really, really appreciate your feedback and this is motivating me to keep creating! Hopefully one day my videography skills will get a little bit better too ;)
I was going to say the same thing. I just found this channel today, and it doesn't feel schilly or overly scripted like others do. I like your honest reflections.
He is not trying to sell real estate
True
Number six is so true. After traveling and living abroad, I don't fit in abroad and I don't fit in at home either. It can feel very isolating.
This one really resonates with me as well... But I remember that I never really felt a sense of belonging in my home country, to begin with, so that’s probably why I left LOL how do you cope with this feeling? As for myself I think too often I’ve relocated, thinking that the next place might be a better fit. And only as I get older do I realize that my sense of belonging can’t be tied to geography
I went to a boarding school as a kid then worked in the offshore and mountain oilfields for decades state side - for 35 yrs I never slept in the same bed for a yr steright - i know that feeling all to well of not fitting in , I never leave home now, I love staying home and sleeping in my own bed every night - if Kristine decides to stay in the states it's going to take her a long time to get rooted to the point she is self confident in those areas - it can take 10 yrs
I miss traveling and I love the caribbean, but the crime made me leave long ago. California is safer but I actually knew more interesting people in my home country and in Europe long ago. Getting old changes my choices. I wonder what will happen next. I’m in the group of people who don’t fit in anywhere,. I do own a house in a liberal state and that is really important to me.
@@gaildelima2755 I know that that feeling well - it's lile a best friend that never goes away I guess it's a thought in our own mind - for 15 yrs I be slept in the same bed at night and never leave the area I'm in so that has helped a lot
Yes, I also can relate. Traveling changes you so that's why the foreign feeling but yet I'm not a born/raised local....it's individual how people respond to me.
I am Black and feel safer anywhere but in the USA. I am an older man and saw racism in the US all my life and now.
I now live in Costa Rice and I am happy and feel safer.
Don’t forget to write.
That's awesome, good for you... yeah, I'm white , the black people here are so racist...it's terrible ...I don't throw that shit on them... insecure is how I see it.
I agree with you, but it's easier being gay or a woman in the US. I know it seems like the US treat both badly, but they aren't stoned to death for being gay or doing something that a woman shouldn't do.
@@jessicaely2521 As I have grown and understand more about thoughts and labels. I see anything that dose not fit the normal the control is labeled to make you feel less or a outcast. Any real intelligent would not make others feel less.
Glad to know you are happy in CR now Zamvolka!
It can be an extremely lonely lifestyle, regardless of the great sights you get to see and the cool people you meet so briefly. The outsider feeling never goes away either, but just gets stronger. It is a hard balance of trying to understand how lucky you are for experiencing so much, and how sad it can be to float through it all mostly alone and relatively disconnected. I can't imagine the most simple things like buying a sofa of my own or having dinner with people who have known me for more than a couple of months. These are odd things to miss out on, but it is a weird part of being human. Some things about being human do not disappear while living an extraordinary life.
Agree!!
Yes, so true. Personally, I believe that being alone is the essence of the human condition and we only temporarily lose that feeling at points in our life. We want to lose our sense of self and be connected, but honestly, you are right and the main challenge in life is to be at peace with yourself. Have friends, live, love, and all that, but just know that being alone is our true essence. And any feeling of not being alone is transitory. It is a strange life lesson no matter where you are or travel to.
Bring a partner. Problem solved. I and my significant other travel, live and work in other countries. I really couldn't imagine it alone.
@@moreapropos In Buddhism ☸ this is referred to as the Truth of Solitude.
Beautiful comment about a very hard to face truth but also freeing.
I really appreciate the thoughtfulness and high quality of your work.
Thank you Richard! I appreciate the kind words
Agreed.
Can we talk about HOW to live abroad? I'm 58...
@@TravelingwithKristin Indeed, extremely high quality, and thank you for that.
I lived in West Germany for 7 years. Not a day went by when I wasn't asked "When are you leaving?" Finally, after 7 years, when I announced that I was, thankfully, leaving, then everyone said, "Why are you leaving?" The anamolies of living abroad.
Shh Katie and Sarah are Sleeping
Must have been quite some time ago. There hasn't been a West Germany since 1990. I lived there for a few years and no one asked when I was leaving, just what brought me there.
The irony. Thanks for sharing!
How true is that! For sure, this is a metaphor for life in general!
Hahaha 😝
I want to personally thank you for your sidebar about discrimination at 12:12. As a person of color who travels abroad and married to someone from a foreign nation, it is great to appreciate the care and consideration you put into your vidlogs. You are awesome!! All the best.
chris clermont: FYI mate, MOST of the World is populated by what people like you call, people of color.. WTF!!!! Ge over yourself.
Thanks Chris! You are welcome 😊
@@abw48 walk a mile in his shoes. Until you know the pain of being treated as a 2nd class citizen or with utter inhumanity because of your color or culture, and especially to see it happen to your children,you have no right to judge. Amazing how you compound the injustice and hurt by actually criticizing someone for mentioning it. That’s gaslighting if you didn’t know. Someone points out something that’s wrong and they’re rebuked for it or made to think it’s not that bad. It is that bad and so is your comment.
Get over YOURself and your lack of empathetic literacy and inability to understand there are different experiences and perspectives besides your own.
If you want to believe discrimination isn’t a problem and that it doesn’t hurt people, by all means, continue to walk around in the bubble of your convenience and manufactured reality, but don’t discredit and undermine the reality of someone else’s experience.
@@pdoll96 : Im British and have lived in foreign countries around the entire World since was 17 years old, Im now 73, Ive been in 50 countries, lived in 10 of them, I have been discriminated against because of my culture many times, Ive lived in North America, Central America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and now reside in SE Asia....Neither my ex wife, or current female friends, are British, nor Caucasian...
Tell me about it...Ive forgotten more than YOURself will ever learn..
Gaslighting is the new buzz word for snowflakes like YOURself.
Grow up already...
@@abw48 Spoken like a true entitled, trembling whiteboy.
Another thing she doesn’t touch on (most likely because she’s young), I’ve heard from older nomads that living abroad they have zero retirement back up plans. They have not accumulated any social security or pension funds from working in one place for a long period of time. Some may think this is trivial until they are pushing late 50’s and realize they don’t have enough savings and will get zero assistance from any government or pension. Something to definitely plan for.
It seems to be a very common thing that people do not bother to find out the rules or do any financial planning before they go somewhere or buy something major. I read an article recently about ( I think it was Australians) complaining France didn't have a reciprocal pension agreement with their country when other countries did and suddenly finding out. The information was readily available for years prior.
I can see why this RUclipsr may not touch on it - financial planning for retirement is a huge topic. And as for giving advice - I find most people don't want to spend any time at all thinking about it!
Interesting video but missing some points, including the fact that she's pushing 40 but living as a 20something is not close to reality for most of us who would be parent at this age and having child/children and/or a career to prioritize
I understand you Wonka, appreciate your insights. However, you can still save money while traveling. You might want to check out the video I made about that here: ruclips.net/video/_pYvluN0RIg/видео.html 😊
I'm an immigrant for last 9 years working in Canada but my retirement plan is probably fentanyl.
@@kubasniak taking it? Or dealing it?
She may not have been able to express the feeling at the time, but I am certain that your grandmother was thrilled that you were by her side. Those moments are priceless.
Thank you so much; I really appreciate that. She worked for PanAm during the “golden years” of flight and was so pleased that I loved to travel so much!
@@TravelingwithKristin Congratulations on your ability to community your thoughts in a personal, positive and balanced view that many of us nomads have experienced in our foreign community stays.
I was a nomad for 23 years living in a country called “U.S. Army”. Dreams of Jungle and desert landscapes quickly become reality. Free airfare, plague vaccinations, and buddies that travel with you. Sometimes you don’t land with the aircraft but rather by parachute. Definitely miss home & family.
Thank you for your service, Richard! Where is home now?
@@TravelingwithKristin Retirement community in San Antonio,TX. My wife and I love to travel. Recent trips prior to pandemic: Russia, Panama. Your channel fascinates me and I have admiration for your knowledge and talent. Stay safe and don’t weaken!
You are really good
😁 good one. 🎖
Haha, well put! Started my career parachuting into Panama, living in Germany and SKorea for over a decade...it definitely changes your perspective.
From my well over 40 years of worldwide travels and still continuing to do so heavily, these are very real and valid points. Traveling is an opportunity cost of missed events, yet amazing and gained life experiences and mindsets. There are many mental and physical tips and processes that can help people quickly adapt to unknown and semi permissive environments. Excellent video and thoughts.
Thanks Nathan - glad you can relate with so many years of experience traveling the globe. How do you cope with these challenges?
@@TravelingwithKristin I have so many thoughts and perspectives on this, but some of the best methods are to stay grounded with a base and self identity and to keep an open mind when traveling. With saying this however, as amazing as travels are, there are always risks. So, thinking outside of the box, staying adaptive, having a contingency plan, and situational awareness make travels in an uncertain world so much more rewarding. I have also missed a lot while away, but we must come to terms with great experiences, good, bad and the frustrating ones too. And, know we became better people because of a deeper appreciation of life, the world, cultures and understanding others.
There is a big difference between traveling and living in another country. None of the listed problems really impact those who move to other countries.
when you think about life is a process of saying good-bye and letting go, the trick is realizing our life is short and you must be fully in the moment
Well said.
Thanks for sharing Michael!
Love this. I've been abroad enough to empathize with all of it. As for coming back, I never was the same--in good ways, but definitely causes a disconnect with family. However, a friend was in Asia for about 12 years and returned, and something I never thought about when you return to your home culture after so long, the culture itself has changed, so you can never truly return home since both it and you are so different.
Well said, Haden! So true
Haden Wesley: The culture changes slightly, if at all, you on the other hand have changed dramatically, this is why its said, you can never go home again.
wow that is such a correct observation
So true!
After being born and raised in the US - mostly by my German grandma - I have to say.....the very first time I set foot in Germany, I felt right at home. My German improved massively over time, I made many friends in Germany and Austria, and in the end - I never feel out of place anywhere in the Alps. Actually, I feel more at home there than here in the states.
I can only guess its because I understand the mentality and humor of the people there. So....I would say it depends how strong someone's familial connection is with a specific culture.
Good to know. I'd like that experience.
May I ask why you decided to come back to the US? I’m just curious, because she also said in one of her videos that she came back as well. I wonder why people come back if they are truly happy elsewhere?
@@Helluvabutl3r I have a job here with a retirement, but you can be sure....I'll be going back when things open up.
@@kerrkreissig6077 congratulations on your success, and I hope for many years of happiness to come in your life! That’s inspirational. Thank you for the reply
Wow that's amazing you felt at home in your country...your grandmother really instilled that culture into you.
I like how you hit the hard topics, like discrimination. I did not receive the health care I needed 30 years ago in a country I am a citizen of, because I was "American". It resulted in a systemic disease and losing everything from my health, to my ability to earn an income, to my self-esteem, my mental health and ... Take it seriously. You are right. It is NOT your fault, but it can affect your entire life. We cannot understand the things that other people can make themselves believe, at home or abroad. Don't wait to go home if you need to. Don't wait for someone to help you, because they are paid to do so in their profession. Don't wait thinking that odd person is probably okay... If the time comes that you think you need to get out ... Get out! I love how you aren't afraid to confront difficult topics. I wish the internet and someone like you had been around years ago. Cheers!
Thanks Xe Ray. I appreciate the kind words and glad that you resonated with my content. I'm sorry to hear about your experience before, discrimination is really real. Thank you for watching and for sharing your experiences as well.
After 17 years in another EUR country, I would hate to go back to my birth country, as there's nothing for me there.
It's here where I am my life is.
If first you've tried to live internationally, you evidently would see people from the old country as being VERY provincial.
My center is inside my person , so my home is where I am & live :-)
Very relatable! I always tell people, “my home is in my head.” 😊
Just remember that a house is not a home. It's how you make it to be. We could be living in a palace or a castle or mansion, or even in a 2 by 4 apartment. If it's not a home, then it's just a roof over your head. It's a heart move.
@@TravelingwithKristin My friend, come to Dubai, I wanna show you around.
The authenticity is tangible, thank you for sharing.
You're welcome Olwethu! 😊
I'm glad you touched on the subject of discrimination at @12:20. I've been living in Germany for more than 30 years now, and as a person of color, I've experienced very little discrimination personally. I have known other people of color who have experienced terrible things, but it wasn't anywhere near as what had been going on in the USA for the past years. Naturally, Europe is not a "racism-free zone", but one can encounter more open-minded people (especially the younger generations), and live "normally".
You’re so welcome, Evan; thank you for sharing. I’m glad you have had a positive experience overall in your travels :)
Have never seen Germany as a place of discrimination. But was last there many years ago. . . I don't know if they regressed as we did here in the U.S. I think given the exposing of our underlying "fault lines," the U.S. has always been this way, but it is more obvious and less concealed now. Maybe our grandparents did not know better, but we know better. . or least some of us. Seems like going to different countries and learning about other cultures is similar to getting a bigger picture, and hopefully a vaccination against bigotry and discrimination.
You are all wrong and cannot see the truth. The US has the least discrimination of any country for colored people. Colored below are in high places in Government, education and industry everywhere here....not so in Europe. There are more colored millionaires than anywhere else. I live in Germany and I don't see blacks holding any high positions in the Government, industry, or elsewhere. Most colored people are on welfare here and jobless. Open you eyes man.
I have to admit that I was reluctant to watch your videos initially, but I
appreciate your philosophy, depth of knowledge, humility, and perspectives. I especially enjoyed the extended segment about discrimination. Most travel videos ignore the fact that there are BIPOC travelers who actually might be treated better abroad. (Or much worse than white travelers.) I loved everything you said and how you said it! :)
Thank you so much, M. I'm glad the videos have resonated with you. Can you expand a bit on why you were reluctant to watch initially? I'm always looking for constructive feedback especially on thumbnails :)
@@TravelingwithKristin for me it's that you even mentioned it at all really. BIPOC expats and nomads generally do because it's part of day to day life. So I generally seek out BIPOC expats and nomads for their perspectives. It's less common for white expats or nomads to even acknowledge there could be/are challenges for people who aren't white or white presenting. So high five from me for being respectful and just even going there.
Agree with the others. As a POC living in and around Miami, I had to roll my eyes a little in your other video where you said everyone was so friendly to you and are quick to chat you up down here. IMO, that’s a very unique experience for you because you fit the correct profile. However, strangers around Miami aren’t as quick to strike up random conversations with me or my friends on the street, unless it is “What are you doing here.” Or “How can I help you?” If I am in a store. Often very rude for no good reason. This video produced a pleasant sigh of relief when you actually acknowledged that it can be a very different experience for melanated and “other” type travelers both domestic and abroad.
This video really resonated with me. I spent almost four years traveling in my 20’s. I loved investigating every nook and cranny in caves or cenotes in Mexico and Guatemala or observing stoic people in Sweden and looking for stains or imperfections in spotless Denmark. The experiences I had through Central and South America, Europe, and the Middle East were so rich and exciting, and I loved meeting people from all over the world and just investing time with them. I will always treasure my spontaneous journey, I said yes to everything. But at 29, I grew tired of moving around in cheap hostels and short term rentals, or the complications of simple tasks due to language, and the other travelers kept getting younger and could drink and stay up longer or had more energy, and every time I fell in love it was fleeting, plus my resources were depleted. The world started to look and feel ugly to me, and my attitude changed. I was no longer easy going and eager to learn about people and cultures. Instead, I was offended that they expected me to change for them, and I was stubborn. That’s when I knew it was time to come home. I got a job back in my hometown. Then the pandemic happened. I bought a house and I’ve been hunkering down. It’s taken me years to adjust to being back, but my attitude is getting better and my bright-eyed youthful elation and curiosity for the world is coming back, slowly but surely. I’m taking a trip soon, to Austin, TX for a weekend and getting out of my comfort zone again, this time I’m eager to see more of the USA. Thank you, Kristin.
Hi Sean. Thank you so much for sharing your experience---I appreciate it. Hopefully you enjoy traveling again. Stay safe and have fun! 😊
I was born into a nomadic family so I can relate and agree with you. I don’t feel connected to any country in general but I do like the country I am a citizen of. I think rent prices, home prices, job market, even covid has pushed younger people to re-think how to do life.
Hi Irma, nice to meet you! Where’s home right now?
@@TravelingwithKristin Canada I was born in France and grew up in Montreal and now I live in Toronto Ontario but I have relatives in Madrid both my parents have siblings there but my father was born in Madagascar and his birth certificate is in Paris France. My sister was born in Germany and I lived in New York City, I have seen many states and I drove across Canada five times and worked in every province and spent time near the Arctic circle. I am fluent in French Spanish and English
I admire your honesty and wisdom as much as I do your bravery, Kristiin.
Thank you, Brandon!
Kristin, this is so honest and accurate. I found that for me, being an explorer and world traveler was/is part of my identity, and I had to reconcile my growing need to have a home base. Making a place my own even if only a rental has been a slow process. I found that my inability to settle down had (also) to do with unhealed trauma and never having felt that my home growing up was a safe space because of all the drama that was going on. So having my home didn't feel safe to my subconscious mind, if that makes sense. I know everyone's journey is unique and each life is complex, but I have noticed that pattern in other serial travelers and expats. For each one to find their own balance of travels and staying in place, but when the nomadism becomes escapism (which it had for me, or linked to relationships pulling me here or there), it is time to face deeper fears and be willing to try something else.
Navel gazing at its funniest.
Great video! Honest direct and impartial. After more than 20 years outside my home country, your words ring true to me. Having a home base is essential for stability. Besos y abrazos.
Thanks for watching Jorge!
This was a wonderful and well thought out video. I determined that dating exclusively was pointless during my travels for the very reasons you mentioned. Just making friends was more practical for me.
You did a frank and candid analysis of discrimination in certain foreign countries. It is generally a deal breaker for most people, whether or not they want to stay in that country.
Glad it was helpful, Max :)
Discrimination is everywhere.
I am Asian property happens more than mores than normal.I travel a lot rent my house for 1 years and around the when ever i want .
Traveling or living alone is difficult. A partner in your life would make life and travel more enjoyable
Its a tradeoff. Having ultimate freedom moving around vs being in a stationary location in a relationship.
There is God ...
I've lived alone almost my whole life. Doesn't bother me in the least.
that was one of her points of the video. How difficult it was to maintain relationship always on the go
Everyone will have their preference. Some do enjoy traveling alone too and some would enjoy it more with someone.
I went through most of what you described. Culture shock and reverse culture shock. Language and culture barriers. Not knowing where I belonged or where I would end up. Fast forward 34 years: I settled in Europe, got citizenship, married with 2 kids, bought a house, now finishing up my career and will retire here. Did a lot of travelling (albeit during vacations or unpaid leave). The 2-week vacation limit is the main reason I didn't want to return to the US. Now I have 6 weeks per year. Looking forward to retirement with plenty of time and money to travel all over Europe, and the occasional trip back to the states.
Sounds awesome Carl! Wish you the best! Thanks for watching! 😊
You are so spot on with the not fitting in - I am 50 and have lived in the US for 42 of those years, but for the other 8 years, I was living in Greece (I was born in the US, btw) through most of my teenage years. The feeling of belonging I felt during those 8 years in the country my family is from was never replicated since. Now, when I visit Greece, I don’t feel that anymore and it’s, like you said, like I don’t fit in anywhere. Not sure I ever will at this point in my life. Thank you for this video - I have never seen what I experience every day put into words so eloquently!
Thank you, Nik! So happy to hear that. Welcome to the community
This was a fantastic video Kristin. You are so well spoken and informative. My husband and I sold everything in northern Canada, when our youngest went off to university, and went looking for a new home abroad. We tried Mexico, Ecuador, Panama and the Dominican Republic over the course of 3 years and chose the interior of Mexico. We experienced most of what you listed as reasons for disliking living abroad, but the ones we can add to your list are : increase in violence which threatened our safety, sharp increases in medical insurance, changes in airlines servicing the area, and the 180 degree policy changes regarding expats almost every time the government changed. We were permanent residents, but had to live under a different set of rules and laws. It wore us down as we got older and when my husband was getting ready to retire, we made the heart wrenching decision to sell everything once again and we go back to Canada. That was 8 years ago, and we still miss what we had, but know it will never be that way again if we went back. You are doing such a vital and honest service to the people on your channel…keep up the good work.
@Wende, thank you for sharing your experience, and I'm sorry to hear you had to leave. Factors like the ones you've mentioned can have a significant impact on your life and decisions. Thank you very much for your nice words, and I hope you and your family are doing well. Sending warm hugs to Canada!
1. i DO have family in the USA....two children and grandchildren. I learned from my first child who was still single at 45 and had moved all the way to Hawaii that he was not going to stay where he grew up. MY younger daughter joined the military and moved cross country to different billets every four yrs so her children were born in different places. Unless I was going to be a camp follower I was never going to be able to,have close relationships with them so that eliminated family expectations as a reason to stay in the USA. 2. I bought a property abroad and my husband and I had it renovated....at 63,it was the very first home I ever actually OWNED no mortgage. 3. Relationships and Friendships...my husband and I are are closer and happier than we ever have been these last two decades of our 40 yr relationship. We have close family like relationships with a ccoupl of local families and expats here too, then we have less intimate social friends again locals and expats so all our emotional needs are well met. 3. Yes you are not considered a local until someone knows you well . Culture shock when you go home to visit...the longer you are away, the more profoundly you feel the changes at home....I dont feel American anymore I feel half Latina inside and half American . 4. I dont feel discrimination here. I do know people here who dont know me assume I am rich, just looking at me. Blonde people are assumed to be upper class here, Americans are universally assumed to be rich except by sophisticated local professionals who know better...I take measures when I am around poorer people here, I dress and act humbly to try to downplay that reaction. 5. It took us two years to get over the honeymoon period...since we were renovating a house our third through eigthyear the first two years of that second phase we hit the wall of adjustment in terms of getting things done in a timely manner. That is the stage when most Americams give up and go home. Eventually you understand the ropes and adjust to them. 6. Not getting ripped,off...you learn how to cope. You know the measures to take and you know the local prices of things more and more. If it is inconsequential to,you to,pay more and you want it you do...mostly I will not pay more than market price for things so others dont so easily get ripped off. 7. I am fluent in everyday interactions...I lack philosophical, legal, medical and emotional terminology in Spanish...practical stuff I am good. 8. I dont like to be a spokesperson for the USA esp since I disagree with much USA policy as it affects this country. And yes it is a big part of why I no longer live in the USA...the USA I knew, loved and felt proud of is long gone.....9. I also dont like paying US taxes....my tax domcile should be this country. 10. The end game....I plan to die here but I am WAAAY older than you....73. I love this country so much, this life. I feel privileged to have found this gorgeous life I have...I worked long and hard for it in the US saved, invested and watched my expenditures living under my means my entire life so I COULD do this and it paid off for me in my current quality of life. I wouldnt change a single thing.
So helpful! Thank you for sharing your experience with everyone who is reading who is considering making a similar life change. In case you missed it, you might also like this video on the positives of living abroad ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
Right?! Agree, Harsh
Good job 👍👍👍 sounds like you made great decision s
.
Funny to hear this after having dinner with a nomad friend last night who has just decided to hang up her nomading shoes for now. She's really craving having a place of her own and not always feeling unsettled.
Most of those downsides don't really apply to me. That might be because we've only been doing this for years and it also definitely has to do with being in our fifties. With only parent still alive between us there isn't that much that we're missing out on.
As for the other minuses which you so thoughtfully discuss, we've definitely felt some of them. But the pros of getting to live in a mountain town like Bansko for three months, then on a beach in Thailand for another three and then southern Italy simply overwhelm the cons.
And not to get political, but being outside of the US is just such a huge plus that it also makes the minuses seem miniscule.
~M
Wise words, Brent! I probably should have underlined this a few more times in the video, but I definitely think that the pros outweigh the cons 😊
Do I know the nomadic friend you’re referring to? I can definitely empathize!
@@TravelingwithKristin Hi Kristin, That comment is actually from me -- I think our co-owning our RUclips channel causes some login problems. I'm pretty sure you don't know her though we met her through a Bansko friend.
Can you travel now??????thailand is closed Italy completely livkdiwn again and bulgarije to!
Yes, a major difference is you're. Older, you're married and you didn't miss life events of anyone that mattered at the time..
Your videos really made me think and brought me back in time. I have been living back in the US since 2011. Before that I lived in the UK for 11 years; it was suppose to be for a year or 2. While I was there I bought a house, got married to an incredible Belgian girl and we had a kid. Life has pulled me back to back to Virginia where I grew up, along with my Belgian wife. She is having her own "shadow walk" by moving to the US, she had assimilated to the UK and is now trying to figure out where she belongs again. Coming back to the US was hard, it is still hard after 11 years. Living abroad changes you. I always explain it like; imagine you can hover invisible above yourself watching exactly what "YOU" say and do while at a party. That is what it is like to be an American living abroad and seeing your country through a foreign media or the thoughts and comments of locals that you know. Being at a party and having fun and all of a sudden being pulled into a conversation to be asked to explain what your country is doing or what it has done. You find yourself defending things you don't want to defend because you are an American; or conversely if I felt I could not support something my country was doing I would feel like I was a bad American (Not a traitor but not a true American, but most certainly not a local. I was "teamless"). Living abroad and travel in general is a giant lesson in self reflection and learning about ones Id. Your commentary does this expertly while exploring the world of travel. Fabulous videos; please keep them coming.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences, @Matthew. I really appreciate it. I completely understand how you feel, and many others, especially expats, share your sentiments too. I'm so delighted you liked my video and resonated with it. I'll be posting new videos soon! Feel free to subscribe 😊
I have spent 35 years abroad. Agree with much of what you say. Thank you for reaching out.
Glad you resonated J. Deaton! Thanks for watching 😊
I'm so happy to have come across your video. I've been away from the US for the last 5-6 years, and remade a new life first in France, and now working in Africa. The feeling of being an outsider and being in between cultures has grown in me more and more. Living in France for the last 5 years, I've felt more and more European and less American, but i'm not 100% French; revisiting family in the very rare moments I can have made me feel like a stranger at times while with family and within the very culture that i've grown up in. I'm not sure where I fit in anymore. But like you said, you make your home wherever you are... But it's an odd feeling being a traveler, pursuing your passions, yet the downsides are often feelings of loneliness, a lack of intimacy or long term connection compared to others that have been settled and rooted in one place longer with longer-term social circles. That's something I've struggled with, especially when seeing my family and friends and feeling so different and less like the American me that I could have been had I never left.
I understand, Samantha. Thank you so much for sharing your experience as well. I am glad you resonated with me. 😊🙌
Thank you so much for this particular video, as an aspiring expat I needed the reality check to pinch me as I have only experienced the “Honeymoon stage“ of living in another country for a very short time and was basing my plans on that experience alone. You basically answered questions that I didn’t even know that I had. I now feel a better informed on the future choices that I will make. Well done. Thanks again.
Glad it was helpful John! It's my pleasure to share these with you. Hope you still enjoy traveling.
If you ever wonder what's the biggest incentive to traveling abroad, she does an amazing job of representing it... expanding your perspective, wisdom, and heart.
Thank you Lynne! 😊
You are so well-spoken! I love watching your videos.
Thank you, Thomas!
My partner and I have been in 27 countries in 17 years, often repeatedly and extensively, and I was an almost constant traveler for twenty years before. I only initially felt I wasn’t fitting in. By staying in a place for months rather than weeks and days, and coming back often, people accepted me and invited me in, and some thought I lived there. It’s nice to walk up to a counter or get out of a cab or into a show and have the operator give you a small discount because, “You’re local now.” About the only thing I dislike about my travel life is that when I’m in one place, I miss my friends in other places and the fact they can’t get to know each other along with me. I’ve often imagined heaven as being where all my friends, living and gone, can be together in one happy place. When I come back to a place after a lengthy absence there is a bit of distance, but after a week or ten days everything is as before. I’m a white American and have little problem with discrimination, but my non-white travel friends constantly do and it’s threatening. When I come across a racist person it’s useless to argue with them and an announcement to me that I don’t need to know them. I’m not good at languages and hate this problem more than any other. The learning curve can mainly be viewed as a kind of fun challenge, but language is capable of killing anything and everything. But I’ve loved my travel life and now have “homes” in several countries with a circle of friends and reasonable skill in navigating the differences. The Pandemic has sabotaged that, but we’ll be able to pick it all up again.
Thank you for sharing, Robert. You make some very good points. Did you see the video on the positive sides of living abroad? ruclips.net/video/bogAhFC7rB8/видео.html I agree I'm looking forward to traveling again soon :)
What about the colliding worlds theory though
18 year living in the US and becoming Dual Citizen 2 years ago, we are still not fully accepted and we still feel like foreigners here! It is indeed a constant struggle! We live in between 2 worlds! When we go home to Germany once a year we feel meanwhile foreign as well in certain places and at certain times!
You are absolutely right on the ‘feeling home’ part!
Your video is on point!
@Frances so true!
Thanks Elke! Glad you resonated with my content!
The way I rationalize paying taxes to the US even though I live in Europe is twofold. Firstly, I am a sommelier and wine buyer and I work with several US importers. Second, until I went to a private university and graduate school, I attended public schools and utilized some of the public services made available. Now it is my turn to contribute to these social programs so others have the same opportunities as did I. Just an afterthought, since I served in the Marine Corps, there are many VA services that I was able to utilize. Semper Fi 🇺🇲
Solid thinking there, Greg. Thank you for sharing. PS, want to be friends? 😄🍷 I'm a fan of wine haha (and that Somm documentary). Just did a podcast with my friend about Bordeaux and St Emilion: (first 5 min or so) www.badassdigitalnomads.com/how-to-make-any-business-location-independent/
@@TravelingwithKristin, it would be great to connect. My forte is Italian wines. My heritage is Spanish wines, and my passion is Georgian wines. By the way, how did you like Bulgarian wines? I will send you a video I did on wine. 🍷 Gaumarjos! ( cheers in the Georgian language)
I was able to relate to all the points you made including the fact that after living almost thirty years in the US, I still feel like an outsider. That is also true not only here in the US , but also now in my country of origin.
Glad to hear it resonated, Marianne! Strength in numbers :)
Me too. My closest friends have died or moved to other countries in Europe. I love the Caribbean and I have close relatives in Florida, but it’s hard to pack up to leave California. I’m bored though. I will wait for now.
Excellent video! As someone that travelled and lived around the world as a consultant I can relate with all the points you so well made, including why I married so late in life and have a young son. Said that, I wouldn't change the experience I had for anything and videos like yours just send me back to those days. Keep up the great work!
Wonderful, Dori! Thank you for sharing your journey - I love hearing about other people's experiences and how much we have in common despite traveling at different times and places
I appreciate your emotional intelligence Kristen and touching on the emotional issues you’ve experienced while traveling.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Valerie! 💛🙏
Great video, Kristin, thank you again. Before living abroad on my own, I moved 17 times while in the Army, but also owned two homes, so I've even been on the OTHER side of that having your own home equation. Having done it, yes, it has its perks--and I think, no matter what I do, I WILL own something once I hit my late 50s/60s, even if it's a moveable tiny home. But trust me, you are right to believe there is also something liberating in NOT owning a home and having a zillion possessions. Age and years of experience may lead you to evolve on which side of that is more important to you.
I concur with everything you say--every single point (the dwindling family invites and country rep comments were particularly spot-on. Uber drivers are my favorite "What's with Trump?" inquisitors). Somewhat sadly, after 30 years of moving, I simply no longer make friends in any place that I won't be staying at least 6 months or more (I used to be super-involved, like my mom, in church groups and other social clubs, and it became harder and more gut-wrenching each time I left). I've learned to say good-bye more easily, but still, my soul just isn't willing to make that investment too easily now. I had a similar experience to your Santorini one when I lived in Stari Grad one winter--it was bittersweet.
Hi @mctaguer! Glad you liked the video and you are welcome! It's always my pleasure to share this video with you. Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights on the topic as well. I appreciate it!
You have great insight. I am an American who lived in Japan for 2 years and loved it. I have traveled to Asia, Europe and Mexico. I think the main thing to keep in mind is that there is no paradise no matter where you live. Japan was great, but you basically have no privacy at all in the large cities. Europe is great, but the salary does not compare to the USA for the same job. The USA is great, but it has a lot of problems including wealth disparity, racism, polarizing political views, extreme regulations and taxes and many issues related to the cost of education and health care.
So true, Thomas! There are pros and cons to every location and lifestyle. But I still think that we chose the best one ;)
@@TravelingwithKristin The USA is not a good place to live if you’re a retiree on a fixed income. Housing and healthcare costs are ridiculous. The USA is a culture of selfishness and greed, with the primary focus on money and materialism. My friends, also retirees, moved to Portugal in 2018 and say the will never return to America for the reasons mentioned above. Thomas Morrison hit on some great points. However, I wish I could afford to join my friends in Portugal.
Thomas, you need to sit down and read about"racism" "wealth disparity" etc....with Thomas Sowell. Seriously. Get you head straight.
Folks can discriminate towards outsiders in any location! Even when they believe they are open and ‘liberal’ - get real! And if countries continued to stir the historical pot there would be no peace!
@@linjicakonikon7666 Yeah, if you’re a libertarian conservative like Sowell.
I’ve never known someone living abroad like me that has the same understanding about a lot of things you speak about in this video. It’s a kind of “I’m not crazy, I’m not the only one” and that’s so important! Love your videos!!
So glad we could connect! Thanks Marianne
How true!
Your kindness & consideration of others is self-evident and refreshing.
Thank you, Dawn! 💓
You have a wonderful channel! You've brought up so many points I agree with and then SOME, I had never considered. Language is a biggie, money conversion I found out about Haaa! And traveling within your area, although I just found out about getting the International Driver Permit, it only covers so many countries.
I've definitely been pushing this idea around on my plate about traveling abroad. I like this series you're doing. Pros and cons, even traveling coast to coast in the US, you run into some of these situations. I did that after graduating school, cross country 6 times. I had a blast, but it's not without it's drawbacks at times as well.
Thank you for your channel! Very helpful. 🌸
Hi Whitewolf! Thanks for watching. I am glad you resonated to some of my points and you found my channel helpful. Please feel free to subscribe. I share more topics in my podcast as well: www.badassdigitalnomads.com/ Thanks for sharing your own insights as well.
@@TravelingwithKristin Oh cool! Thank you, I'll check it out 🌼
the ultimate question, what to do after traveling for twenty years, when the world becomes a small place, when you've seen it all...most people live their whole life working so that one day they can travel, when that day comes they are too old to travel, they don't have the physical strength or desire to wander around endlessly, those who forgo working, travel at an early age, have nothing to look forward too, after twenty years, they too old to start a family, they have seen and experienced it all...
This is a profound question that I don't know the "right" answer to...
@@TravelingwithKristin if you like the work you are doing (10 ways you make money online) and still enjoy living in different countries, keep doing it for another twenty years, BUT buy a place of your own in a place you like (a condo with an ocean view, if you like the ocean, or a condo in the city, if you like city life, or a small house with some acreage, in the country, if you like the country), in the mediterranean, the caribbean, europe, asia, latin america, usa, and DON'T airbnb or rent it out, that way when you travel you will always have a HOME to come back to, that is YOURS, set up the way you want it, even if you don't rent it out, which i don't recommend, it's still an investment...have you already done this? if not there's your answer...
Thank You For This Valuable Information 💚💚💚💚🦅🦅🦅🦅
What you said about not 100% fitting in anywhere, even back home, after living abroad is one of the strangest things I experienced and another expat once told me it's like opening Pandora's box, once opened you can never go back to how you were, how you felt, or even who you were as a person before. It can be a confusing feeling. It's one of the few negatives though, mostly living abroad has been positive for me.
I completely agree! Thanks for sharing, Matt :)
This is how I felt most of my childhood life as an immigrant in America. What you are feeling is normal feelings of immigrants and refugees.
it sucks...
@@kubasniak It really does sometimes. My Dad's family were immigrants to the UK where I grew up, so I kind of had a taste but now I really feel like I don't belong anywhere. In some ways it's liberating and it's odd to watch tribal nationalism from an outside perspective but other times it can feel isolating and everyone else belongs except you, whether that's where you are or where you came from either. Ye it sucks.
Defaulting to your other foreign tongues is so relatable!! I was literally speaking Spanish and Portuguese to people in Vietnam. *face palm*
hahaha #relatable!
in my teens thru age 49 I traveled alot. Now at 70 I have hard time wanting to travel. But I love to watch your show.
with age you lose the desire to travel, a Navy man told me this years ago
Thank you so much Tess, glad that you enjoy watching my videos. Hope that you'll travel again soon. 😊
We also traveled so much and never had a home and never benefited from the equity build-up and you fall behind economically. Homelessness is a blessing and a curse.
Thanks for sharing your insights Andre. Indeed it can be
I'm so impressed with how articulate you are about all these different things. In my travels abroad I have experienced many of the things you've described here at different times, in different places, and I always came home to the States more open minded and accepting of people in general. I know one major thing I've personally experienced everytime I traveled was that I was happy to come home and have a home where people knew me as a local. I get homesick, what can I say?! 😂❤️
Oh wow! Thanks for sharing Dee!
A thought on home: "Home is not where you are born; home is where all your attempts to escape cease." - Naguib Mahfouz (1911-2006) - Egyptian writer & novelist; won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1988.
Very true. I've lived abroad in Japan for 20 years now and share a lot of your feelings. Being here a little longer maybe than you stayed in one place, I've been fortunate enough to get treated more like a local in a few bars/cafes that I've frequented over the years, but you're totally right, especially about racism and often being treated like an outsider.
Thanks for sharing, arc. Do you feel like you fit in in Japan now? I made a video about that here: ruclips.net/video/98QaPFRIb9Q/видео.html
I feel ya on #3, 5, and6 . It’s such an odd conflict, the two different pulls between the desire for freedom to explore and the desire for a solid home base where you really feel a sense of belonging long-term.
Glad you resonated with me, Rok! 😊
your life experience has given you some wisdom about humanity and the world, and I'm glad you are sharing that gift of wisdom. Many people say that their lives were impacted by someone else's hard-earned experience, and you may not get direct feedback about it since it takes years to realize these things, but please share your gift as many ways as you can. :)
Thank you so much, VHP. It means a lot to me to read your comment. I really appreciate it.
Being your country's representative is an absolutely huge one - SO many people make their entire judgement of a nation based on interactions with a single person.
We're British, and when visiting Poland a few years back several people grilled us about Brexit, asking for various info, whether we supported it or not, etc. We found that we had to lie and say "oh we didn't vote, we don't really follow politics" in order to get people off our back.
One of best discussions of the difficult issues facing people who decide to live abroad. I think those who are older, married and retiring abroad are focused on particular issues such as long term Heath while younger single types that have to work abroad.may be focused more on dating and recreational activities. But you nailed all the big issues that could apply to all persons! Congrats on a well done discussion.
Thank you, Joseph! Appreciate the sentiment and so glad it prompted a helpful conversation 😊
I absolutely, love your videos they are just phenomenal. You’re videos are extremely well planned, and thought out and well spoken thank you for the clarity and the advice.
So glad to know you loved my videos Gavin! Thank you so much for the kind words 💛
Very accurate list, after 20 years abroad I can say this list is 100% accurate. You old life freezes in time too. When I’m back I visit my friends from high school, but they don’t talk to one another anymore. After having a life that is constantly new, it’s hard to imagine life in my old city, it seems like life would be so boring. Also being from Canada I am uncertain how easy it will be to establish relationships with doctors, it sounds like the medical system in Canada has gotten challenging.
Thanks Clay, glad you were able to relate. It's definitely a strange set of problems to have but there are good things about living abroad, too :) ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
Hi, Kristin, I’ve really enjoyed your insightful videos. I have traveled a bit and generally for 6 months at a time. I often have that feeling of wanting so desperately to feel like a local and get to know the undercurrent of the place. I have also come to the conclusion that no matter how long I am somewhere, I am never truly a local. I lived in New England for 7 years and always felt like an outsider. I have also met people who are experts at settling in right away and make dozens of friends, join clubs etc. and seem to become part of the fabric of a community instantaneously. One thing I have noticed is that expats glom onto other expats because we are a defacto community craving connection and it’s just easier with others who “get it”. Thanks so much for this video!
Glad you liked the video Jennifer and thanks for sharing you experience and insights. I think this one is the most common feeling we all feel but there will always be better days. Hope you are safe.
I love having excuses to miss weddings.
hahaha
Hahaha
I haven't been to many weddings and even fewer of my friends
lol...
🤣
Thank you , Kristin, for your honesty. I really appreciate it regardinging discrimination. It is a very real thing and the more we are open and talk about it the better off we are.
You are so welcome, Taraz. I'm glad we can discuss it here with other like-minded people
The hardest thing for me would be not be not being able to have a cat.
It's true - I've never had a pet. But I make a great pet sitter ;)
I take my cat with me, wherever and whenever I travel domestically or abroad 😽💕
I can completely relate with this. We took our cat with us to Bangkok, Thailand and back to the USA.
Just feed ur neighbours cat!
This reminded me of how just after moving to another state, I was invited to a cousin's wedding but unable to go, because at the time I had no job (had fled abuse), so no money for a ticket, and my health was poor. I told her I couldn't afford to go and apologized, but then a few years later, a different cousin got married. This time, I was able to attend. And the previous cousin whose wedding I missed kept her back to me the whole time. It's like she didn't comprehend that I was actually physically too poor to attend hers, even though I explained it to her. I think she still holds it against me to this day... 🤔
Guessing a fair amount of people who move away experience stuff like this.
This video was outstanding. There was a lot of good information in it, but the best part was your grace and how you carried yourself being completely honest about things that bother you and things you dislike. I absolutely love that we can see you emotions and purity through out. Thank you. #Travelingwithkristin
Thank you so much, Eric! Very motivating to hear that so I will keep going with the videos 😊
@@TravelingwithKristin awesome thank you.😁
Thank you for writing me back. You just made my day and probably my whole week! I've had others write me back and I appreciate them, but you are celebrity status to me. I can't stop smiling.😁❤️thank you again you're amazing!!! #Travelingwithkristin
Thank you so much for your videos--I related strongly to this one. I lived for 6 months in Berlin while finishing my doctorate in philosophy, then 6 years in Cape Town where I rented a house and worked. As you said, no matter how long you stay somewhere, you will always be something of an "outsider" to the locals--the moment I opened my mouth people knew I was not German or South African! Sometimes that wasn't an issue, but if the cultural climate was at all cliquish, it could be an automatic way to be excluded and left out. The flipside of living abroad are all the opportunities you've brought up in other videos (lower costs of living, better access to healthcare, slower pace of life). My husband and I are now considering moving to Germany permanently to live and work remotely--this second time around I am more aware of what to expect and what to watch out for. I appreciated also your point about discrimination, this is something I always investigate ahead of time to try and avoid places where we'd be treated badly because of homophobia--I never experienced any problems along those lines in Germany or South Africa (in fact South Africa was the first place I ever felt like an equal because of their inclusive constitution and public policies). Anyway, thank you again for your videos, they have been very helpful and insightful!
You're welcome, @MrMfwettlaufe! I am glad that my content were able to help and you resonated with it. Thanks for sharing your experiences as well. All the best!
If you meet that guy, you are really in love and he too, then you will stay with him. It makes no differences where you live.
Why does it have to be one way? My suggestion is my partner joins the nomad ways, but keeping my partner’s home as a base (with appropriate financial considerations for both parties)
I suppose the key is just meeting the right person...
Excellent, thought-provoking, and serious video. As an architect who has traveled extensively, I completely agree with your observations and that emotionally it could be tough not to have roots, emotionally and physically.
Thanks for the kind words, Nicolas! I am happy you like and resonated with the video.
"Language Barriers" - I had a good chuckle about Spanish being your default to "foreign language". That happened to me when I moved to Germany and the only language I took in HS and college was Spanish. I automatically responded with horrible Spanish when Germans would speak to me. Language barriers also were the cause for a number of relationship breakdowns. You may think that your subtleties come across as understood, but they don't and vice versa for the other person.
Glad I'm not the only one!
First off, I am so sorry for your loss. 🙏🏾 I agree its tough being away from family & friends. I can truly say, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Thank you.
Kristin, thank you for being forthright with your thoughts and experiences. :) enjoy you week!
Thank you, Taki! You too!
Hello from Colombia.
1. When I walked on the sidewalks in Bogota, people looked at me like I was an opportunity.
2. What is the end game? Good question. I really don't know and I know that I need to prepare for other stages of life such as retirement.
3. Economic struggles. They are commonplace but more uncertain when you are a stranger in a strange land.
4. Social life is hit and miss. Here today, gone tomorrow. You are just a temporary resident.
5. I laugh when someone here sees me walking and tries to speak in English. "Hey friend!" They are testing my friendliness to know if they can approach me and either try to sell me something or ask for a handout.
Thanks for sharing Ryan!
Great share Kristin. This video is very much needed as many people's perspectives are that we are living the perfect lifestyle. I am only 20 months into my own journey ( I will be 57 this month ) so my situation, my character, my background is very different to yours, I may at some point experience these things. The advantages I have at the moment, are no family left to speak of, just one 43 year old nephew and my 29 year old son. I am an introvert, I don't socialise that often. I try not to stay more than 1 month in any one place, for the fear of getting too attached and never leaving. Plus I know there are many more wonderful people i still have to meet, ( got to share the love ) I still love owning so little. less than 100 itemised items. Dating, I have dated two local ladies, 1 Italian and 1 Spanish, they both knew my lifestyle and they both knew I would leave at some point, so we went into it with our eyes open, so there was no awkwardness at the end and we are still in touch. I know what you mean about not feeling quite like a local, to join in with the banter, camaraderie that they have, yes I miss that part from England, but not enough to stay longer ( yet ) I have never fitted in anywhere with the exception of Italy, so that's ok. Only discrimination so far was my age back in the UK, then again I am white and male. My two uncertainties, are if I get badly injured, I have no home to return to heal, and what my next source of income will be ( I am ok for 3-5 years )
Great to hear from you, Dan; quite the journey awaits you! I’m glad you have had many positive experiences; will be interesting to see if your travel itinerary changes over the years. Keep us posted!
@@TravelingwithKristin Cheers Kristin. Is this the best place to keep you posted? I have a flight to Brazil on the 20th pending a PCR test. I was trying to get to Argentina. If I manage to make it to the America's. I don't plan to fly for a long time. My plan is to stay at least 2 years, ideally 5, as my goal is to live in every Spanish speaking country for at least 1-3 months, even though 1 of them is in Africa.lol. I have told myself I am not allowed to leave until I am fluent in Spanish, so I could be there for the rest of my life, yo studio espanol todos los dias, agora for tres meses. Bless you :-)
Although I haven't lived abroad personally, the idea of missing out on events in your family or with close friends at home would definitely be the biggest downside to it. It would be hard to not be around family a lot of the time or only see them once a year possibly. For me missing family would be tough, but fortunately most of my friends are all over the place which would make things a little easier. Fortunately, all the downsides you have listed I feel would not outweigh all the benefits of living abroad even if it is only part-time. I really enjoyed this one as well as the other one you did!
Thank you, Scott! Yes for sure - I love having friends all around the world and don't regret meeting anyone, but it can be a trade-off sometimes being far away from family and other friends. I definitely agree that the pros outweigh the cons, though!
@@TravelingwithKristin Yes, I can see that. . Sometimes I think had I stayed behind with my friends and family. . . . But, there is a kind of insular sense when you stay in the same place. Anyone who has left often understands, but would not return, because seeing the diversity and experiencing it just opens the mind. Wish there was a nomadic home to float around in--wait. . there is!!!
The bottom line question for you, after your likes & dislikes between the US and living abroad:
Where would you rather be?
I would still love abroad the majority of the time
@@TravelingwithKristin thanks for answering this question. Good to know!
@@TravelingwithKristin Does that mean you would like your own place in the US to return to, maybe a few months every year?
Very thoughtful and forthright video, Kristin. Thank you.
You are welcome! Thank you for watching Janys, glad you enjoyed the video. 😊
Thank you for doing the due diligence in highlighting the need for research in deciding where to travel. We all will face discrimination in some form eventually, however, some places are more volatile and overall dangerous depending on where you're from and what you look like.
You are so welcome, Dwight. Thank you for commenting and sharing your perspective!
What on earth are you talking about - you consider this RUclips prostitution research - are you serious?
expat for about 4o years, you are very real, living abroad is still worth it because going back , after such a long time is not possible or wanted. glad to see you
on the road again,from Berlin
I am an expat since 2004. Lived in 4 countries and planning on going to Portugal or Spain next year. There is a lot of trade-offs living this lifestyle but you will also see and understand things that most people never will. Many are jealous of your freedom yet many people do not understand how much you've got to give up. Loneliness is one thing you've got to deal with. But meeting other expats and dating them is also a great experience even if you never see them again. There will come a time everyone will settle down.
I some video on Portugal & Spain that might help: ruclips.net/video/Q2v_A-iHGvc/видео.html & ruclips.net/video/VH9tBtk5yq4/видео.html Thanks for sharing your insights! Indeed there will be trade-offs.
I know a woman who lived in Turkey for about 7 years and she realized only after a failed romance that she really didn't belong there - and worse that she had chewed through most of her 30's and had to attempt to start over dating in the US - but she can't *really* start over at age 37. She had these interesting experiences, but no home, no mate. She didn't spend much of her inheritance, but didn't have much saved up from lower COL in Turkey either.
That's sad to hear.. I hope she is doing better these day..
Yes, i can relate to pretty much all of that as i'm a Brit living in Mexico.
Glad to hear, Sean! Strength in numbers ;)
This is the best channel of RUclips. Kristin, you are very thoughtful, great content, great presence and insight. I instantly became a fan! Thanks for all that you do :-)
You are welcome Eric!
Cool little animations ;) I spent 7 years between Italy and England. I miss how friendly neighbors were over there though compared to here. Our neighbors had us over all the time, whereas here, it almost never happened. Feeling of having a home is a big one though, I can definitely relate to that too. This video brought back a lot of memories of living overseas. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! 😃 Where do you live now?
@@TravelingwithKristin Missouri. I'm working on a digital agency business, and photography and video, and hope to be freed from living here in 6-9 months. I always joked if I was ever single again, I was going to go back and find a woman in Prague lol. Didn't expect that to come up though. I've never been overseas single, I can see how dating could be tough though. Listening through the rest of this video, wow, yeah, can really relate to more of it. We could share stories, for sure :)
I live in MX. I don't like having to cross the border every 6 months. I don't like the fact, In order to receive temporary residency, one has to fly out of MX, go to the USA, spend a bunch of money and time to only find out the judge on that particular day just happens to be in a bad mood which can result in a big fat rejection. MX is getting much harder to receive a temporary residency card. With their stricter rules, it makes life harder, unless one has bags full of money, which I don't.
I live in East Cape in BCS. I moved here to windsurf.
The quality of living, for me, is wonderful during the winter and sucks in the summer when the heat is so extreme, I find myself so miserable that I want to go back to the states. However, todays cost of living in the US has become so high, there would be no way I could ever find a place outside of MX. I have lived here 5 years. Prices are outrageous and clothing costs are way too much for the bad quality. I am not saying all goods are made of bad quality just most are.
I am completely lost. I want to move to a dog friendly country without paying an arm and a leg. Equador, sounds kind of good.
The people, are friendly for the most part. We have have had a lot of theft and pick pickpocketing happens more and more. BC dogs are free to run and are scary when a dog is chasing you, attacks your dogs and bark incessantly through the night.
Sorry to hear about your current situation, Margot and thanks for sharing. I heard a lot of people also choosing to live in Mexico because of high cost of living.
Loneliness was my biggest disappointment and if your not fluent in the local language can make communication difficult but I never stopped trying. Then met the love of my life who spoke English...She is from the city but we both found the common ground that we both love nature...NOW if we can only travel if airfare wasn't so damn expensive and borders not so complicated to cross or even to cross
Glad you met your "media naranja" as they say in Spanish!
There is another level of complexity regarding to discrimination and racism.
Having the clarity to discern between ignorance vs. racism vs. xenophobia and also being able to read the intentions is going to be crucial to avoid going crazy. This is very commonly conflated, and it is important to understand the difference between them.
For example, hasty generalizations or "stupid" questions are not neither racism nor xenophobia, it is just ignorance, and even though it might be exasperating, if there is no malice, we shouldn't get offended. If they are just curious and ignorant, just educate them. Just take a deep breath and explain to them what you already explained to his fellow countrymen for the 92828th time.
Xenophobia is defined "fear" of the strange/foreign, which has a biological basis as a reaction for survival, which is usually translated to distrust, disgust or dislike for foreigners, just because they are different, not because of their race per se.
Racism on the other hand is another animal, it would be defined as feeling that other "races" are inferior to yours.
From all these three groups, it will be very *EXTREMELY* common to find well-intended but very ignorant people who are just curious about where you are from (they could say "hey, why are you so black" or "why do you look like this" or "you speak English so well!"), and it will also be *very common* to encounter xenophobia in foreign countries as a natural defense mechanism especially in homogeneous societies (they might be all super friendly if you are a tourist, but that could suddenly change when they realize you are actually becoming a resident, for example in Japan), but actual racism won't be as common. Sometimes in these countries true racism is against a specific group, and because you don't belong to it, you will never feel it. In East Asian countries for example there is a blatant racism against South Asians, and believe it or not, Asians with a darker tone (even if it just tan) are perceived as "low class".
Another issue that will cause even more confusion to those who can't read between the lines and/or have difficulty interpreting the intentions behind the words, _what matters is not what they say but how they say it and what actually it means by it._
For example in some countries some "racist" or "rude" expressions might not have the intention to be insulting, but actually mean the opposite; it might signal that you are accepted in their intimate circle in the group as an equal. In Latin American countries, you will routinely hear calling "gordo, negro, petiso, enano, chino (to all asians), etc..." things that would be considered completely rude at face value if literally translated to your native language, but the fact that they are calling you like that is just because they feel that you are now part of the pack and they are being extremely informal. Learning to read the context and the intentions behind the expressions will save you from embarrassing situations, just look at their eyes and see if they are being friendly.
The more we get older the more the mindset changes and the more we want to go back to the basics.
So true
I have travelled with friends abroad and have never been discriminated against. But, if I travel alone, I have been discriminated against for being American. More than once. I am caucasian and it was from certain individuals from a few European countries and Australia. Not only in their country, but while they were also abroad. The discrimination was all based on preconceived notions. Most of them, after they got to know me, they apologized and said I was not a typical American (which still hurt to hear). All my life I have welcomed people from other countries to the United States when they were/are visiting as a student or on a work visa. It was tough to take this discrimination the first time it happened to me. But, the more I have travelled, the more I have been prepared for it.
Very insightful, TeraByte! Thank you for sharing 😊
Well summarized! I could produce books on this subject. One niggling aspect of the living abroad experience is never being satisfied just living in the US again. After a while, the urge to move on to something more stimulating gets strong. At the same time, you wonder what you're missing if you're not there. Missing those high marks of your own culture makes you wonder, sometimes.
Thank you; definitely pros and cons did you see the videos about coming back to the US? ruclips.net/video/DO5x_tJBn7w/видео.html And the positives of living abroad? ruclips.net/video/JmE3RuO3wOI/видео.html
@@TravelingwithKristin Actually, I did. I made a big mistake when I, for better or for worse, repatriated. And frankly, it took years to readapt. Your videos capture the essence of this experience, though I have experience with only one country to your broader experience with many. Someday, I'll write that book.
completely agree with number 3, I felt that a lot... yes! you get used to seeing up quickly but it gets tired leaving all the time and having to say goodbye... These are very real downsides..if you're leaving constantly, it's hard to keep relationships..you hit all the points!!! I like feeling like an outsider. It makes me different :) thanks for your video
Glad to know you resonated with my video Yvonne. Indeed that is so true. You are welcome, thanks for sharing your insights as well 😊
Just found your videos and I think they are very insightful and informative. As a Puerto Rican-New Yorker, I can relate to your time in Costa Rica. I retired from the Marines Corps in 2000. I have been to 12 countries and lived in 6 countries anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. My favorite place was the Philippines. I rented a house, dated local girls, and traveled the many Islands. You struck a never when you described living in Japan. I have been to Japan 6 times throughout the 1980s and their "habit" of getting up from a set on a bus when I or my buddies sat down was so obvious back then (I can't believe they're still doing that crap). Or seeing signs on local bars' (drinking holes) windows "Japanese Only" or "Private Club (harking back to the Southern US)." Marines tend to ignore signs like this and it got to a point where I got tired of walking around and I just walked in and order a Saki. There were about 10 people in the bar, mostly older timers. The guy at the bar served me but never talked to me or ask me to leave. I banged back the shot, I got up and left. I did it just to do it and I never returned. Back then we wrote it off as their response to WWII and/or our massive military presence in Japan. The local base workers, on the other hand, were more welcoming. They took you to their house, feed you, sung songs on their karaoke machine, and got wasted on our JD. The younger generation was more open to us as well and loved to party because we had the Jack Daniels and Johnny Walker Black. For what it's worth, I think you did a great job on the discrimination issue. As a Puerto Rican-New Yorker, the local Puerto Ricans on the island tends to snub their noses at PRs born in the continental US and are told we're not "real" Puerto Ricans. I guess the more things change, the more they remain the same. I wish you the best of luck as you leave Costa Rica.
Thank you for sharing your experience Henry. Glad you also enjoyed traveling and living abroad. The Philippines is indeed a beautiful tropical country with friendly folks. Your experience in Japan was spot on too. Thank you for watching Henry and appreciate you leaving a comment. 😊
It's not just the prices in the USA, it is safer living just about anywhere I go. You are single, so life is easier, but many men in the USA are not in a happy marriage and heavily in debt, so I am really thankful to be single, living abroad. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
That's great that you are doing well, Kevin! Thanks for sharing and for watching 😊
Another great video! Thank you for sharing and doing so good job:) For me the worst was being away from my family. Many times I needed a hug but they were far away.
Glad you liked it!
The parallel universe...that’s so true, that feeling of not belonging to any place (when coming back). I’ve missed home so much, came back and realized I was missing memories, things from the past, because the present is totally different, and it’s very hard to re-adapt. Will be leaving soon again :)
Happy to find your videos!
Glad to know you found my videos and you enjoyed them Mihaela! Indeed it can be the memories that makes us miss our homes so much. Hopefully you feel better soon knowing that you are not alone. Safe travels to you!