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Embark on an exhilarating journey through Panama with us, as we uncover the diverse landscapes and cultures of this fascinating country. We kick things off welcoming our friends, Julie Tallman and Roy McGinnis. They captivate us with tales of their September 2024 exploration, weaving through lush mountain retreats like Anton's Valley and Santa Fe, and finding a surprising gem in Pedasi—a coastal village that might just be their future home. Julie and Roy's stories offer a charming mix of humor and insight, as they navigate Panama's roads and cultural quirks, sharing their delightful encounters over local foods and unexpected detours.

For those entertaining ideas of a Panamanian escape, we dive into the nitty-gritty of relocating. From the contrasts between the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to the nuances of healthcare and visa logistics, we cover it all. With an eye on practicalities, we discuss everything from water quality to the possibility of maintaining Medicare while enjoying Panama's affordable healthcare. As we look forward to the upcoming International Living Conference, we emphasize the importance of preparedness and research for anyone considering a life abroad. Whether you're dreaming of retirement or just curious about the expatriate experience, this episode promises a treasure trove of insights and advice to ponder.

International Living Fast Track Panama Conference,
Feb 7-9, 2025 - Sign up at https://internationalliving.com/events/fast-track-panama-2025/

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What do cobblestone streets, ornate architecture, and a surprise health scare have in common? They're all part of our unpredictable adventure through Eastern Europe! Join us, Jim and Rita, as we recount our travels from Warsaw to Vilnius and Riga. Our journey took an unexpected turn with a health challenge in Riga, but it didn't stop us from first exploring the city's vibrant history and culture. From the charming old towns and picturesque landscapes to the fascinating stories behind landmarks like Riga's House of the Black Heads, this episode is packed with unforgettable moments and insights. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just dreaming of your next trip, our stories offer a blend of inspiration, humor, and a reminder that travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

As we wrap up our holiday travels, we're excited to share our progress on establishing our U.S. home base while balancing our health and travel aspirations. Stay connected with us through our blog, YouTube channel, and Instagram for more detailed accounts and visuals of our adventures. Plus, we've got our books and audiobooks available for those who want to dive even deeper into our travel tales. Engage with us, share your own travel stories, and let's explore the world together. Whether you're tuning in for the scenic landscapes, cultural insights, or just a bit of travel escapism, there's something here for everyone.

Youtube Cello Video: https://youtu.be/5F_mkdMHE6U
Vilnius Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-6/
Riga Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-7/

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Ever wondered what life was really like behind the scenes at the US Senate? Picture this: a snowy evening in Washington DC, a bustling tech support subculture, and a cast of unforgettable characters like Rob and Becky. Join us as we pause our home renovation chaos to take you on a whimsical journey back to Jim's time as a senior network technician—a time filled with camaraderie, humorous insults, and a tale that captures the essence of the spirited Senate tech team. It's a story dubbed "Foolish Mortals," offering an amusing glimpse into Jim's upcoming tell-all book about his Senate days.

While our Eastern European escapades are temporarily on hold, we promise you laughter and nostalgia with this holiday special. From the basement of the Russell Building to the halls of power, Jim shares one of his proudest moments, offering a sneak peek into the unique world of Senate tech support. So, cozy up, because this episode promises to be a delightful distraction from the ongoing home renovations and a humorous highlight in our Travels with Jim and Rita.

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Join us, Jim and Rita, as we explore the decision to establish a home base in the U.S., balancing family ties and future surgeries while considering the allure of new experiences abroad. Listen in as we discuss whether leaving the country due to political reasons is truly the driving force for successful expats or if it's the promise of adventure that beckons. With fresh health updates, including a successful gallbladder surgery and some welcome insurance news, we set our sights on the warm climes of Portugal and Spain, all while advocating for the convenience and charm of Flixbus over traditional rail and air travel in Europe.

Our journey doesn't end there. We immerse ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Krakow and Warsaw, sharing stories of Wawel Castle, bustling markets, and the unique ways Poland shows solidarity with Ukraine. Discover the beauty of Krakow's walkable streets and historic churches, and relive the unexpected health scare that struck during a Flixbus ride to Warsaw. Find out why our cozy Airbnb near the Madame Curie statue made our exploration of Warsaw even more memorable. We invite you to connect further with us through our blog and social media platforms, where you can find more insights, photographs, and travel stories. Whether you're planning your next adventure or simply love a good travel tale, there's something here for every wanderlust-filled heart.

ABBA Light/Fountain Show Link: https://youtu.be/57MZ6smdh3Q

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After a whirlwind journey through Eastern Europe, we found ourselves in an unexpected twist when Jim faced a serious health challenge in Latvia. Amidst these challenges, we hold onto our zest for travel, with hopeful plans for a springtime excursion to the UK and Ireland, cherishing the journeys yet to come.

A train ride from Berlin to Prague rekindled our love for these vibrant cities, despite past trips being clouded by illness. The marvels of Prague—its captivating architecture, historical richness, and unexpected dining adventures—captured our hearts, affirming its allure as one of the most stunning places we've explored. Our travels also took us to Budapest, where iconic landmarks like the Parliament Building and Fisherman's Bastion left their mark, even as reconstruction posed a few disappointments. Yet, the city's history and culture, from solemn memorials to lively festivals, enchanted us nonetheless.

Through our stories, shared on our blog and social channels, we aim to inspire you to embrace travel as a profound way to discover both the world and yourself. Engage with us through your questions and personal travel stories, as we continue to explore these mesmerizing destinations and beyond. Join us on this journey of exploration and discovery, and perhaps find your own inspiration to see the world anew.

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Ever wondered how a seemingly innocent meal could turn your dream vacation into a medical nightmare? Join Rita and me as we recount our wild ride through Eastern Europe that left us grappling with mysterious, severe pains striking at the worst possible moments. From the first alarming symptoms in Krakow to a dramatic ambulance ride in Riga, our journey became an unexpected test of endurance and adaptability. You'll hear all about our encounters with healthcare professionals in a foreign land and the surprising efficiency of Latvia's emergency response system.

Experience the highs and lows of our trip, where every city brought new beauty and unforeseen challenges. As we navigated unknown territories and healthcare systems, Rita's unwavering support and the swift actions of local medics were crucial. Tune in for a candid and gripping tale that will make you question what you would do in a similar situation. Whether you see us as bold adventurers or think we might be a bit nuts, this episode promises to keep you riveted from start to finish.

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Julie Tallman has spent over 15 years navigating the globe on horseback, forging unforgettable connections and experiences. This week, Julie brings us a heartwarming tale from her recent adventure in Serbia, weaving through the countryside on a progressive ride and staying with locals who embody the true spirit of hospitality. Learn how she uncovers these hidden gems through specialized agencies like Hidden Trails and listen to her recount the endearing encounter with a Serbian farmer that truly captures the essence of travel.

Jim and Rita also share their own exhilarating escapades, from the challenging terrains of Peru to the serene bus and train journeys that provide a stark contrast to the hustle of air travel. With stories from wine tours in California to relaxing spa days in Poland, we celebrate the diverse ways in which we can explore the world. Solo horseback travel takes center stage, showcasing the unique joys and unexpected moments that make each journey special.

Finally, we celebrate the richness of Serbian hospitality and dive into equine adventures across Tuscany and Western Ireland. Listen to humorous tales of navigating tricky trails and ponder future dreams of riding across Icelandic fjords and the Mongolian steppes. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a beginner eager to start your own journey, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Join us as we explore the world, one hoofbeat at a time.

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What happens when a retired Army veteran channels her passion for exploration into a thriving luxury travel business? Meet Jenifer Breaux, owner of JB Travel Pros, who shares her incredible journey from her roots in northeastern Ohio to becoming an expert in crafting unforgettable travel experiences. Inspired by family trips and a life-changing study excursion to the Bahamas, Jenifer’s love for travel guided her through a military career specializing in chemical, biological, and nuclear warfare analysis. Discover how her military background and adventurous spirit seamlessly merged, paving the way for her to create bespoke luxury travel itineraries that promise to engage all five senses.

Parenting children with special needs comes with its own set of unique challenges and rewards. Jenifer opens up about balancing her career while advocating fiercely for her children’s well-being. From managing doctor’s appointments to navigating school activities, she shares personal stories and practical tips that are both heartwarming and enlightening. Gain valuable insights into the art of planning meaningful family travel, emphasizing that with determination and flexibility, enriching experiences are not only possible but profoundly rewarding.

This episode also offers a glimpse into Jenifer’s entrepreneurial journey, from establishing the travel franchise Dream Vacations to the evolution of JB Travel Pros. Learn about her creative strategies for building a client base and marketing luxury travel, including memorable multi-sensory experiences like dining at the Eiffel Tower and perfume-making in Paris. Jenifer also discusses her upcoming book tour, future travel plans with her family, and the thrill of spontaneous adventures. Tune in as we explore her inspiring story and get motivated to turn your own travel dreams into reality.

Website: https://www.iamjeniferbreaux.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjeniferbreaux
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjeniferbreaux

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