Retiring Abroad: Is an Exploratory trip really necessary?
Channel: Don Shader - Grumpy Old Gringo
Date: 2023-07-20

This is Lecture No 2...
An exploratory trip can be highly beneficial when planning to retire abroad. While it may not be an absolute necessity, it can offer valuable insights and information that can significantly influence your decision and ensure a smoother transition to your new life abroad.

Here are some reasons why an exploratory trip can be helpful:

1. Assessing the destination: Visiting the prospective country or city will give you a firsthand experience of what it's like to live there. You can explore different neighborhoods, assess the local culture, and determine if the overall lifestyle aligns with your expectations and preferences.

2. Cost of living: An exploratory trip allows you to understand the cost of living in the destination, which may not be entirely evident from online research. You can get a sense of housing costs, groceries, healthcare, transportation, and other essential expenses to evaluate if it fits your budget.

3. Climate and environment: Some people dream of retiring to a place with a specific climate or natural setting. An exploratory trip will give you a chance to experience the weather, landscape, and environmental factors firsthand.

4. Healthcare and facilities: Access to quality healthcare is essential during retirement. Exploring the local healthcare system and facilities can help you gauge whether they meet your needs and expectations.

5. Legal and logistical considerations: Living in another country comes with various legal and logistical requirements. An exploratory trip allows you to gather information about visa options, residency processes, taxation, and other important legal matters.

6. Networking and social connections: During your trip, you can interact with locals and other expats, attend community events, or join social groups. Building social connections can help ease the transition and provide a support network in your new home.

7. Safety and security: Visiting the destination helps you assess the safety and security of the area, which is crucial for a comfortable retirement experience.

While an exploratory trip can be extremely useful, it's also essential to prepare thoroughly for it. Do your research beforehand, plan an itinerary, and consider the aspects you want to explore during your trip. Keep an open mind and try to experience the destination as a potential resident rather than a tourist.

Ultimately, the decision to take an exploratory trip when planning to retire abroad depends on your personal preferences, circumstances, and the level of confidence you have in making such a significant life change without physically experiencing the destination first. If it's feasible, it's highly recommended as it can provide invaluable insights that can contribute to a successful and fulfilling retirement abroad.

Me:
I can no longer share personal information because of Internet trolls.

Links to know:
 
My Channel Video Index 
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1-f4Wv3uBMulCX9OK6oNqS5a9wrS84cbUBYXzoq24JNA/edit?usp=sharing

My Google Docs document of useful information
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ArNRtsdqfleE1-l9r1yKrh-XyzksSIwj0MMyb09L0ro/edit?usp=sharing 

Document Links
My Checklist for migration  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UGirfkTQp91dDyX51vsUV3ggcjoEEpXLUkBOwD6UnUg/edit?usp=sharing

Facebook 
Manta and Manabi Expats and Amigos - https://www.facebook.com/groups/323275021650751/


Remember this folks.
A country might look good on paper, or on a YouTube video, but what about the “Chemistry” between you, the individual and the country and culture as a whole?
This is something we can’t know in advance. We can only make our move, dive in and test the waters…….and see how it goes.



If you can't walk on water, freeze it

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The views expressed in this video are in no way intended to be taken as advice on retirement, migrating to Ecuador, investing, buying insurance, or getting your immigration documentation.
I am not responsible for any decision you make after watching my videos.
I don't give advice and I don't recommend anything unless it is based on my own personal, verifiable experience.

I want to be sure that the information I provide is accurate information and I don't want people to make a poor choice based on anything I say.
If one person comes here based on my influence and doesn't like it at all, then has to return to start all over again, I have failed.

#RetiringAbroadTips
#ExploratoryTripInsights
#DreamRetirementAbroad