For Americans thinking about living abroad
Can you really retire abroad on a budget? We’re finding out.
We’re Sandra and Jeff. Since 2023, we’ve been living slowly across countries — tracking exactly what we spend so you can plan with real numbers, not estimates. No guesswork.
Belém Walking Tour: Self-Guided Lisbon Itinerary for 15 Historic Sites
If you’re searching for a Belém walking tour itinerary that covers all the historic highlights, this self-guided Lisbon tour is perfect. Belém district combines Portugal’s maritime heritage, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and authentic Portuguese culture in one walkable area. We created this self-guided itinerary after multiple visits during our month-long stay in Portugal. It reflects what we loved most and what we learned along the…
An Itinerary for Oxford England
An Itinerary for Oxford England Itinerary Quick Guide Time Needed: Full day or split across two days (see details below)Total Walking Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles between all locationsCost: Free for all three main museums (donations welcome)Optional Activities: Botanic Garden (£7.20 advance booking) or Oxford CastleTerrain: Mostly flat, urban walking on sidewalksAccessibility: Some tight spaces in History of Science Museum; contact staff if using mobility aids…
Portugal Travel Guide
Explore Portugal through the eyes of seasoned travelers. We’re Jeff and Sandra, experienced travelers who spent over a month traveling in Portugal. From the rich history at the National Tile Museum to the architectural wonders of the Catedral de Faro, we provide expert tips to help you save money and travel smart in this Portugal Travel Guide. We took our firsthand experience in Portugal to…
England Travel Guide
England consistently ranks as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, there’s something for every type of traveler. Most visitors understandably flock to London, with its world-famous attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. But beyond the capital lies a treasure trove of…
Costa Rica on a Budget Travel Guide
We spent two months in Costa Rica on a budget… and discovered ways to enjoy its stunning nature, lively cities, and rich culture all the while staying on budget. On this page you’ll find all our blog posts and videos from our real world experiences while in Costa Rica. From tips for budget-friendly activities to our experiences living here, we’re sharing it all with you…
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in San Jose, Costa Rica
Ever wonder how we snag comfy crashpads without blowing the budget? Research, research, RESEARCH (with a capital R!). Finding a decent, affordable places to stay in San Jose took some digging. “Affordable” is subjective, of course. This ain’t a list of bare-bones hostels, but a curated selection of budget-friendly accommodations we unearthed for our stay in San Jose. Our mission? Nightly rates under $50! And…
An Itinerary for One Day in Guanajuato
Whether it’s a day trip from San Miguel de Allende or you’re just passing through on your way to the BJX airport, if you only have one day to experience the magic of Guanajuato city, don’t worry-you can still soak in the city’s vibrant colors, rich history, and unforgettable atmosphere. Here’s how to make the most of your 24 hours in this UNESCO World Heritage…
Guanajuato Travel Guide
If you’re beginning to plan your trip to Mexico, Guanajuato should be on your vacation planning list. This vibrant city is renowned for its unique tourist attractions, including underground tunnels, historic silver mines, and colorful colonial architecture. With the help of this travel guide, you’ll find essential travel tips and an itinerary to make your travel planning effortless and your visit to Guanajuato truly memorable.…
Where to Stay in Guanajuato City-Our Honest Guide for Expats & Nomads
Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in central Mexico, is famed for its colorful colonial architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its winding alleys, subterranean tunnels, steep hills and a vibrant atmosphere that captivates visitors. Choosing where to stay in Guanajuato can enhance your experience significantly, so let’s explore the best areas and accommodations for different types of…
Durres, Albania, Cost-of-Living Reports, Cruising, Europe, Italy, Real Life Abroad, rome, Travel ResourcesPort to Port: Our Journey Getting from Italy to Albania – A Step-by-Step Guide for Budget Travelers
If you’ve been following along, you know we’re no strangers to border crossings-but this trip packed in a few firsts even for us. From our first transatlantic cruise to navigating Italian trains and an overnight ferry to Albania, we learned a lot (sometimes the hard way). In this guide, we share our real journey from west coast of Italy to Albania, with the practical tips,…
About Us
We’re Jeff and Sandra, two retired Americans, living abroad, on a budget, one country at at time. Most days, we’re just doing what we’ve always done— making ourselves a home, working on projects, cooking, and running errands, wherever home might be at the moment.
Reader’s Favorite Blog Posts
- Cost of Living in Vlore Albania: Our April 2026 Expense Breakdown
- A Real-World Cost of Living Report: Our First Year in Albania
- Cost of Living in Sarandë, Albania: What We Actually Spent
- ATM Fees in Albania (2025): What Travelers Need to Know
- Best Merino Wool T-Shirts for Travel: I Purchased & Tested 3 Budget Brands vs 1 Expensive Brand
