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When our flight touched down in Dublin, we had no idea our carefully planned 29-day Irish adventure would begin with financial shock. Our supposedly bargain $18-per-day rental car suddenly required mandatory insurance at €58 daily plus a €31 fee for crossing to Northern Ireland—ballooning our anticipated $522 cost to nearly $2,500. Welcome to Ireland, indeed!

Belfast greeted us with beautiful architecture at City Hall and Queen's University, but also with sobering reminders of The Troubles at every turn. The hop-on-hop-off tour highlighted bombing sites and memorials rather than typical tourist attractions, creating a somewhat melancholy atmosphere despite interesting spots like the Titanic Museum built near the shipyards where the ill-fated vessel was constructed.

As we ventured along the coast, we discovered that sometimes the most famous attractions aren't the most rewarding. The Giant's Causeway, though geologically fascinating, was overwhelmed with tourists even in early May and bitterly cold with whipping winds. Meanwhile, lesser-known Dunluce Castle offered dramatic clifftop ruins, Game of Thrones connections, and the luxury of space to explore without crowds.

Our counterclockwise journey around the island revealed Ireland's constantly shifting landscapes—from dramatic coastlines to rolling countryside, often changing every few miles. The Wild Atlantic Way provided breathtaking scenery, while small towns offered unexpected treasures. In Donegal, a beautifully preserved 15th-century castle gave us a genuine glimpse into medieval life with its thick stone walls and vaulted wooden ceilings.

Roscommon became our favorite Irish destination, with its fourteen-acre Loughnaneane Park featuring walking trails, wooden sculptures of Gaelic heroes, and castle ruins we could explore freely without entrance fees or formal oversight. Local pubs provided authentic connections with colorful characters, including a bartender who insisted the proper local pronunciation of "Mur-RAY" was actually "Murry," and claimed the other version was "posh."

The most profound aspect of our journey was encountering Ireland's painful history at every turn—castle fortifications built out of necessity, famine memorials in town squares, and exhibits describing the "coffin ships" that transported desperate emigrants to America. At Strokestown's Famine Museum, seeing my family name among those who fled or were forced onto ships hit home in ways I hadn't anticipated.

Despite these echoes of historical trauma, we were consistently moved by the warmth and resilience of the Irish people, their genuine hospitality, and their ability to acknowledge a painful past while embracing visitors with open arms. Our Irish adventure reminded us that travel isn't just about seeing beautiful places—it's about understanding the complex human stories that shape them.

For information on the 2025 International Living Ultimate Go Overseas Bootcamp in Portland, Oregon August 29th-September 1st : https://www.internationalliving.com/events

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Ever wondered what happens if you need serious medical care while traveling abroad? When Jim's shoulder began failing him in Ecuador, he faced a critical decision that many Americans contemplating life overseas worry about – should he return to the familiar but expensive US healthcare system, or trust foreign doctors with his surgery?

Jim takes us through his remarkable journey from initial diagnosis to complete recovery after undergoing shoulder surgery in Ecuador. The contrast with his previous experience in the American healthcare system is striking – instead of waiting four months for insurance approvals and scheduled procedures, his entire process from consultation to operating room took just 15 days. Even more surprising was the final bill: $6,200 total compared to $16,000 for similar treatment in the US.

Beyond the financial aspects, Jim reveals the philosophical differences that make healthcare abroad so different. In Ecuador, patients maintain their own medical records, pharmacists return prescriptions for future use, and doctors spend significant time discussing lifestyle factors affecting health rather than just treating symptoms. The system places much more personal responsibility on patients while creating more human connections – from doctors making house calls to hospitals accommodating family members who stay overnight with patients.

Drawing from his audiobook "Living Abroad: Challenging the Myths of Expat Life," Jim addresses common concerns about quality of care, insurance options, and whether medical tourism makes sense for everyone. His balanced perspective acknowledges both the benefits and potential drawbacks, providing valuable insights for anyone considering healthcare options beyond American borders.

What healthcare stories have you experienced while traveling? Have you ever considered seeking medical treatment abroad? Share your thoughts or questions and join our growing community of global travelers seeking authentic experiences worldwide.

For information on the 2025 International Living Ultimate Go Overseas Bootcamp in Portland, Oregon August 29th-September 1st : https://www.internationalliving.com/events

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Imagine pulling your sailboat into a tiny Greek fishing village where tourists rarely venture, dining at a local taverna where fishermen gather, and experiencing authentic Mediterranean life beyond the postcard views. For travel writer and photographer June Russell-Chamberlain, this freedom to discover hidden gems represents the magic of charter sailing.

"The freedom to choose where you go and how long you stay," June explains when asked what draws her to this unique form of travel. Unlike conventional tourism or even cruise ships, sailing allows travelers to linger in places they love, adjust plans based on discoveries, and access coastal communities untouched by mass tourism.

June's sailing journey began unexpectedly when her husband Mike announced his sudden interest in sailing, purchasing what she describes as "the fastest, tippiest, craziest little boat" – hardly an ideal beginner vessel. Despite this challenging introduction, June gradually developed her sailing skills on Oregon's Fern Ridge Reservoir before venturing into international waters. After obtaining necessary certifications through sailing organizations, they began chartering boats in destinations like the Greek Islands and Croatia's stunning coastline.

What makes charter sailing special isn't just the destinations, but the quality of experiences. When you sail into small Mediterranean fishing villages, you encounter locals who are genuinely interested in meeting visitors – a stark contrast to tourist-saturated locations. "You actually get a feel of the culture," June notes. "It's the authenticity that you get to see when you pull up to a fishing village and spend the night there."

For those intrigued but inexperienced, June offers reassurance: charter companies worldwide provide captains who can navigate and teach, while sailing schools offer live-aboard courses combining instruction with the experience of boat life. Whether you're looking for adventure, authentic cultural experiences, or simply the joy of charting your own course, charter sailing offers a travel experience that reveals destinations layer by layer, creating memories impossible to replicate through conventional tourism.

Instagram @junerussellchamberlin

Website http://www.junerussellchamberlin.com

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What happens when a couple of American retirees tackle the United Kingdom, complete with driving on the "wrong" side of narrow roads, navigating London's famous tube system, and an unexpected series of medical adventures? Join us as we share the highs and lows of our journey through Britain.

London welcomed us with its iconic landmarks and efficient public transportation. Armed with the TFL Go app, we explored Westminster, the British Museum, and vibrant Camden Town while mastering the art of "tap on, tap off" and the Tube. Despite our comically tiny hotel room where the bed touched three walls, we found ourselves enchanted by the city's parks, architecture, and pub culture.

Our adventure shifted gears—literally—when we rented a manual transmission car in Oxford to explore the Cotswolds. Picture this: shifting with the left hand while navigating narrow country roads bordered by vine-covered stone walls, all while trying to remember to stay on the left side! The countryside rewarded our efforts with extraordinary natural beauty and villages that seemed frozen in time, from Burford's ancient church to Bourton-on-the-Water's stream-crossed pathways.

The journey northward took us through Bath's Roman history, Manchester's surprising vibrancy, and finally to Scotland, where Edinburgh's castle perched dramatically on volcanic rock and Glasgow offered a blend of industrial heritage and cultural attractions. Throughout our travels, we encountered unexpected highlights, like discovering the Royal Yacht Britannia's fascinating history and enjoying tea with scones aboard this floating piece of British history.

Not everything went according to plan—a sketchy Airbnb in Glasgow sent us scrambling for alternative accommodations, and persistent respiratory issues led to three separate visits to British medical facilities. Yet these challenges revealed the efficiency and kindness of the UK healthcare system, while adding those unpredictable elements that transform a vacation into a true adventure.

Have you explored the UK beyond London? What was your favorite discovery? Follow our continuing adventures at jimsantosbooks.com and share your own travel stories with us by emailing jim@jimsantosbooks.com.

UK ETA - https://uketa.com

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What would it take to stop you from exploring the world? For Penny Zubula, even total blindness couldn't dampen her wanderlust. This remarkable travel writer navigates foreign countries with her photographer husband Simon and guide dog Splendid—proving that disabilities don't have to limit adventure.

Penny's journey from Jerusalem-born, Montreal-raised TV host to acclaimed travel writer showcases an extraordinary life dedicated to experiencing new cultures. Through her website "Six Legs Will Travel," she creates vivid, sensory-rich travel narratives that go far beyond visual descriptions, breaking barriers for travelers with disabilities while inspiring everyone to see the world differently.

The conversation reveals fascinating insights into traveling internationally with a service animal—from the relatively straightforward EU requirements to the more complex regulations of Japan and Israel. Penny and Simon share their strategies for selecting destinations, with special appreciation for Holland America cruises that accommodate service animals expertly. They've developed a unique approach to cultural immersion by volunteering at language schools across Europe, where they help locals practice English while gaining authentic experiences themselves.

When asked what advice she'd give hesitant travelers, Penny's wisdom rings clear: "If you waste those opportunities, the person you hurt most is yourself." Her adventures—rock climbing, hot air ballooning, and exploring remote destinations—demonstrate that limitations are often self-imposed rather than insurmountable barriers. What's your excuse for not exploring the world? Join us to discover how this inspiring trio is redefining what it means to truly experience travel through all senses.

Penny's Website: https://sixlegswilltravel.com/ and https://muckrack.com/penny_zibula

Simon's Photos: https://photos.myeclecticimages.com/ and https://myeclecticimages.com/

Penny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixlegswilltravel

Simon's Instagram: https://instagram.com/myeclecticimages

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Fifty episodes in, and we're still discovering what retirement travel truly means to us. After a health challenge forced us to pivot from our original three-year international adventure, we've established a new rhythm – a home base in Tennessee with 6-9 months of global exploration annually. Our latest journey began with a two-week exploration of Portugal and Spain that revealed surprising preferences and unexpected gems.

The adventure started somewhat roughly – an overnight transatlantic flight with a screaming baby, condensation-soaked windows in our Lagos Airbnb, and a missed bus in Portugal. Yet these small hiccups faded against the backdrop of magnificent experiences. While the Algarve coast offered postcard-perfect beauty, we discovered something profound: after years living on Ecuador's Pacific shores, we've evolved beyond beach resort destinations.

Spain delivered the most delightful surprise of this leg. Seville captivated us with its walkable streets, vibrant culture, and extraordinary depth of history. We wandered ancient Jewish quarters where streets barely accommodate a single person, dined in a restaurant operating since 1386, and experienced authentic flamenco paired with mouthwatering tapas. The grandeur of the Cathedral housing Columbus' remains contrasted wonderfully with the world's largest wooden structure, the Parasol, offering 360-degree city views.

Lisbon challenged us with hills that would make San Francisco blush, yet rewarded our efforts with hidden treasures like the unassuming Santa Catarina Cathedral – modest outside, breathtaking within. At the communal tables of Time Out Market, we shared meals with honeymooners and, remarkably, fellow Tennesseans from just miles away from our home. A ferry ride to Trafaria revealed a glimpse of what local Portuguese life could offer away from tourist centers.

Our journey continues next episode as we venture to the British Isles, but this first segment taught us valuable lessons about what we truly seek in our traveling retirement. Sometimes the most memorable experiences come not from famous landmarks but from wrong turns, local connections, and places that weren't even on our original itinerary.

What secret corners of Portugal and Spain have you discovered? What unexpected destinations have captured your heart? We'd love to hear your stories at jim@jimsantosbooks.com as we continue redefining retirement through meaningful exploration.

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Travel writer Linda McCarley joins Jim and Rita to share her remarkable journey from childhood trips to Scotland through her recent decision to purchase a villa in Tuscany. Born in Canada to Scottish parents, Linda's travel adventures began at just three years old, planting seeds for a lifelong passion that would eventually lead her to Italy.

With refreshing candor, Linda reveals how her approach to travel evolved from standard tourism to meaningful cultural immersion—a shift that intensified when she became a travel writer during the pandemic. "The more we traveled, the more we did not want to be tourists," she explains, describing how writing pushed her to research destinations more deeply and seek experiences away from the crowds.

Her story of unexpectedly purchasing a 1920s villa in Barga (considered "new" by Italian standards) offers listeners a glimpse into the realities of overseas property ownership, complete with bureaucratic delays and renovation plans. Linda's recent five-week language immersion in Lucca provides practical insights for anyone considering similar adventures—from the moment she began thinking in Italian to participating in cultural excursions that included Carnival celebrations and food outings.

Throughout our conversation, Linda shares genuine recommendations for lesser-known Italian destinations like Arezzo and Camogli that offer authentic experiences away from tourist crowds. Her description of walking ancient streets where buildings predate the founding of America reminds us why European travel continues to captivate our imaginations.

Whether you're dreaming of your own Italian villa, planning extended travel abroad, or simply looking to experience destinations more authentically, Linda's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Follow her journey at lindagotravelwriter.com and let her experiences guide your next travel adventure.

Website - https://lindagotravelwriter.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lindafunaymccarley/

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Curious about cruise vacations but not sure where to start? Veteran cruiser Babs Dearmond joins us to unpack the fascinating world of cruise travel - from Caribbean beach-hopping to sophisticated global exploration.

Babs shares her journey from first-time cruiser seeking winter escape to seasoned traveler who's sailed the Mediterranean, European rivers, and Asian waters. What began with a mother-daughter Caribbean adventure uncovered a passion for this unique travel style that combines luxury, convenience, and discovery.

The conversation reveals cruise travel's surprising advantages: the freedom of disconnecting while surrounded by endless blue water, the efficiency of seeing multiple destinations without constant packing and unpacking, and the ability to "sample" places like Santorini, Jerusalem, and Pompeii to determine which deserve deeper exploration. Babs recounts walking the ancient streets of Pompeii and discovering unexpected gems like Turkey while deciding Egypt wasn't quite her style - all from the comfort of her floating hotel.

We dive into practical considerations too - understanding cruise pricing beyond the advertised rates, navigating gratuities and beverage packages, comparing accommodation options, and finding entertainment that matches your preferences. Babs unveils the secret of repositioning cruises that offer transoceanic journeys at half the price without the jetlag of flying.

Whether you're considering your first voyage or looking to expand your cruise horizons, this episode provides insider perspective on using these floating resorts to see the world without worrying about foreign currencies, language barriers, or transportation logistics. Ready to discover if cruise travel might be your next great adventure? Listen now and start planning your escape on the high seas.

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