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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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What's driving more and more women to travel solo or join women-only travel groups? This episode dives deep into the transformative power of travel with Sonja Thayer, founder of Rom-Soul Escapes, who specializes in creating women-focused retreats in Italy and Greece.

Sonja shares her journey from backpacking through Europe in the 1990s to creating curated travel experiences that combine wellness practices with deep cultural immersion. She explains why retreat-style travel provides the perfect balance of adventure and support, especially for women taking their first international trips or those seeking a break from caregiving responsibilities.

We explore how leaving behind the familiar forces us to become more present and aware, creating the perfect conditions for personal transformation. From making pasta in multi-generational family homes to painting watercolors with local artists, these authentic experiences connect travelers to both themselves and the cultures they visit in profound ways.

The conversation tackles common travel fears and how speaking them aloud often reveals them as less formidable than imagined. Sonja explains why she believes travel makes us "better humans, better stewards of the earth" by revealing our fundamental connectedness despite cultural differences.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone who's dreamed of exploring the world but hesitated to take that first step, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom about how supported group travel can open doors to life-changing experiences. Ready to fill your cup with the sights, tastes and transformative power of travel? Listen now and discover how the journey beyond your comfort zone might be exactly what you need.

Website - https://www.rom-soulescapes.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rom.soulescapes

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/romsoulescapes

If anyone would like to contact Sonja directly - Romsoulescapes@gmail.com

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What happens when you combine a passion for travel, a gift for storytelling, and a heart for helping others overcome their deepest struggles? You get Lori Bruton, our fascinating guest who shares her remarkable journey from trauma to transformation.

Lori opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her path as an author, travel writer, speaker, and breakthrough coach. Her story begins with childhood road trips that sparked her love for exploration and continues through personal challenges that nearly broke her spirit. With raw honesty, she reveals how these experiences led her to develop a unique coaching approach that addresses trauma stored at the cellular level—going beyond conventional mindset techniques she describes as merely "spray paint on rust."

Her adventures have taken her swimming with dolphins and flying on private jets to the Bahamas, despite once being so terrified of flying she avoided planes for twenty years. Through essential oils, determination, and courage, she conquered those fears and now helps others break through their own limitations. Particularly poignant is her discussion about traveling with mobility challenges—a topic many avoid but one that affects countless wanderers worldwide.

For aspiring writers, Lori offers practical insights into breaking into freelance travel writing, crafting case studies (customer success stories), and using personal newsletters to connect authentically with readers. Her journey from writing personalized poems for her son's teachers to publishing books with forewords by renowned motivational speaker Les Brown demonstrates how passion and perseverance can transform dreams into reality.

Ready to break through your own barriers and embrace adventure? Subscribe now and join our community of travelers seeking not just to see the world, but to find themselves along the way.

Website: http://loribruton.com

Email: hello@loribruton.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loribrutonbiz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loribrutonbiz

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loribrutonbiz

Newsletter: https://substack.com/@lettersfromlori

And more: https://linktr.ee/thelorifactor

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Roy McGinnis and Julie Tallman return to the podcast with exciting news – they've officially committed to building a retirement home in Panama's Azuero Peninsula. After their initial exploratory visit left them enchanted with the rural charm of Petasi, they returned for two weeks to confirm their decision and put down a deposit on property in an expat development.

Their journey through Panama reveals a country of surprising contrasts. Panama City dazzled them with its ultramodern skyline (most buildings less than 25 years old), exceptional safety, and rich cultural experiences from the historic old town to the bustling fish market. Meanwhile, Pedasi captured their hearts with its small-town atmosphere where locals greet passersby from their porches with friendly "buenos," reminding them of American small towns from decades past.

What stands out most in their story is the authenticity they've encountered. "We're getting used to the fact that most people are just very genuine," Julie notes, describing how refreshing it is to experience straightforward interactions without the guardedness so common back home. This extends to their experiences with fellow expats and even their builder – an Israeli man coincidentally named Roy who has earned a stellar reputation for quality and integrity.

The couple shares fascinating insights into the practical aspects of their international move – from visa considerations to property ownership structures, from the surprising convenience of the Panama City airport to the unexpected challenges of quality household goods. Their timeline has them completing construction by August 2026, with a permanent move to follow once they sell properties and wind down work commitments in the States.

Whether you're considering a similar retirement adventure or simply curious about life abroad, Roy and Julie's candid conversation offers a window into how two Americans navigated the complex decisions involved in building a new life in Central America. Their excitement is contagious as they envision fishing trips, horseback riding, and exploring every corner of their future home country.

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Our podcast episode takes you on an informative journey through the ups and downs of travel life as Jim and Rita explore resilience in the face of unexpected health challenges. Discover their adventures that led them back to the U.S. after a critical health scare in Latvia and learn how they’ve adapted their plans to embrace a balanced lifestyle that accommodates health and travel. With honesty and playfulness, they share detailed insights into establishing a home base in Tennessee, all while keeping their passion for travel alive.

Listeners will gain valuable tips on planning extended trips, utilizing travel points for significant savings, and the necessity of flexible travel arrangements. They dive deep into the realities facing travelers of all ages, discussing how health considerations alter travel plans and emphasize the importance of having safety nets like travel insurance.

With their sights set on future travels to Ireland and Spain, Jim and Rita inspire with their shared passion for exploration and the adventures that still await them. Their charming chemistry and relatable anecdotes make this episode not just informative but also heartwarming. We invite you to tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation surrounding the beauty and challenge of embracing a life on the move! Don't miss out—what's the next destination on your travel list? Let us know and start planning!

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Retiring to Panamanian paradise might sound like a dream, but for Dave and Debora Haughton, it has become their fulfilling reality. They share their journey from Virginia to Pedasí, shedding light on the joys and challenges of expat life and embodying the warmth of community found in a new land.

• Transitioning from a busy life in Virginia to the peaceful beaches of Panama
• Discovering the beauty and culture of Pedasí
• Embracing retirement through community involvement and personal connections
• Overcoming bureaucratic challenges in a new country
• Finding joy in the simplicity and warmth of local life
• Building a diverse expatriate community and fostering friendships

If you'd like to learn more about Hombres d'Acción or offer any help or support, you'll find a link to their Facebook page, Instagram account, and WhatsApp number in the show notes.

Hombres d'Accion:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HombresDeAccionPedasi

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hombresdeaccionpedasi

WhatsApp: +507 6657 7551

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Ever wondered what it's like to trade the familiar buzz of home for the charm of European living? Neil and Denise Johnson share their captivating stories of expatriate life, from the enchanting yet quiet winters of Sardinia to the vibrant streets of Milan and the cozy town of Słupsk. Get a taste of their unique experiences as they navigate cultural exchanges, like hosting a Thanksgiving dinner in Poland, and laugh along with them as they recount an unexpected hospital visit thanks to a washing machine malfunction. Their adventures offer a glimpse into the joys and challenges of living abroad, transforming Neil's business trips into unforgettable European escapades.

Join us as we explore the Johnsons' transition from bustling cityscapes to serene small-town life in Poland, and discover how events like French strikes shaped their long-term perspective. Beyond their personal tales, we provide insights into resources for global travel and invite you to engage with us through our blog, YouTube channel, and more. Plus, don't miss out on information about an exciting International Living Online Seminar, where I will discuss the art of roving retirement. Let's ensure life doesn't just pass us by—let's embrace the world together!

"How to Move Out of the USA" Online Seminar: https://pro.internationalliving.com/m/2407727

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