Category: Ecuador
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Will I Get Gringo-ed?
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by
Traveling as an expatriate can be a thrilling adventure filled with cultural experiences, stunning locations, and new friendships. Yet, one of the fears that often circulates among travelers—especially those in Latin American countries—is the notion of getting “gringoed.” This term refers to a perceived practice where locals overcharge or take advantage of tourists, particularly North…
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A New Life and a New Perspective on Politics and Patriots
When Rita and Jim Santos sold their home in Knoxville and embarked on a nomadic lifestyle, they didn’t just leave behind the comforts of a familiar life; they stepped into a new realm of existence that reshaped their perspective on what it means to be American citizens living abroad. In our latest podcast episode, we delve…
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Kindness Without Borders
Retirement often conjures images of tranquil days spent in a rocking chair on the porch, but for Maya and Dave, retirement sparked an incredible odyssey into the heart of adventure and altruism. Their narrative is not merely one of relaxation, but a testament to the power of change and the relentless pursuit of purpose, even…
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Navigating Real Estate and Retirement: A Look at Ecuador
When retirement approaches, many find themselves pondering a life less ordinary, away from the hustle and bustle of their current environment. Imagine then, embarking on a journey that not only promises a serene retirement but also presents the allure of managing real estate across borders, infused with cultural experiences that most only dream of. This…
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From Grief to Globetrotting
When Jim and Rita Santos faced the pain of losing their spouses, they could never have imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead. In this poignant podcast episode, we delve into the transformative experience that led this intrepid couple to redefine retirement, exploring new cultures and adventures in Ecuador and other parts of the world. It’s…
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Is It Safe to Visit Foreign Lands?
As the world becomes more interconnected, the idea of retiring abroad grows ever more enticing. Jim and Rita Santos, a couple who once took the leap to relocate to Ecuador and now plan to travel the world, share their journey on their latest podcast episode. It’s a tale that intertwines the excitement of new experiences with…
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Finding My Voice
There are some old TV commercials for Reeses’ Peanut Butter Cups that are variations on a basic theme. One person is eating peanut butter, another is eating chocolate. Through a lucky mishap, they stumble into each other and one exclaims, “Hey, you got chocolate on my peanut butter!” The other retorts with “You got peanut…
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Winter Strawberries
Rita and I recently returned to our home in Salinas on the southern Pacific Coast of Ecuador after our longest time away in the last five years. Between taking care of some business in the States, attending the International Living Boot Camp Conference in Santa Fe, and enjoying Thanksgiving with family, we were away from…
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For of Flying in Baños
There’s a moment of clarity, just before you begin, when you think calmly to yourself, “Why am I doing this?” Then the calm is shattered by sheer terror as you are flung out over the abyss. Now your brain is screaming “WHY AM I DOING THIS?!” This was my experience with the “Casa del Arbol”…
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Confessions of a Gumbo Junkie
I could feel the urge building over the last few weeks, and then this Sunday, it finally happened. I woke up with a raging gumbo-ner. I just had to make my favorite New Orleans meal. Gumbo is not something to be taken casually. It is not one of those “one pot” dinners that you can…