Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories

Marc Alcobé Talló
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  • Places & Travel
  • Updated weekly

Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories shares honest, human stories of people building lives and homes abroad. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the channel explores what it really means to live somewhere new, beyond visas, checklists, and highlight reels.Through in-depth conversations with people living abroad around the world, we talk about belonging, identity, culture shock, community, and the slow process of becoming almost local. These are stories about finding home in unfamiliar places, navigating life between cultures, and redefining where you’re from.Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life elsewhere, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences of life beyond borders.New episodes weekly feature personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.

  1. 2 days ago

    Almost Local #66 | Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk

    This episode delves into the real insides of living, adapting, and thriving abroad. Scott Kirk shares his unconventional journey from a tech background to helping others with their international moves—highlighting the psychological and cultural aspects of settling in Portugal and beyond. In this episode: How moving abroad is about more than geography—it's about identity and safetyThe mindset shifts involved in becoming a digital nomad before the term existedThe importance of community and cultural integration when relocatingPractical insights on navigating Portugal's bureaucracy and cost of livingThe evolving definition of "home" through a life of constant changeHow sports, local customs, and language shape integrationThe strategic approach to choosing where and how to live based on lifestyle needsScott’s transformation from a tech entrepreneur to a relocation facilitatorKey tips for a smooth transition and avoiding common pitfalls 🎙️ Guest: Scott Kirk A relocation expert and Portugal integration guide, and a former digital nomad turned community-builder. 🔗 Guest Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/movingtoportugal2.0 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74495967/ Website: https://www.visas.pt/ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Riversideis your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #66 | Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk

  2. 13 Jul

    Almost Local #65 | The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow

    This episode explores the transformative journey of Willa Goodfellow as she navigates life across Costa Rica and Ireland, revealing how culture, community, and identity intertwine in foreign lands. Her story offers valuable insights into adapting to new environments, building community, and embracing change with curiosity and humour. Key topics: Willa's background, from Colorado to Costa Rica to Ireland, and what drove her travelsHow living in diverse environments influences creativity and writingThe role of community, local customs, and the bar life in Costa Rica in shaping her experiencePractical insights on integrating into small towns and rural communities abroadThe impact of cultural and language differences on social life and forming local relationshipsManaging identity shifts, cultural adjustments, and the routines of living between two worldsThe significance of faith and religion in forming community and local engagementExperiences as a lesbian couple abroad: acceptance, challenges, and the evolving landscapePractical tips for newcomers: finding housing, participating in local life, and navigating bureaucracyReflections on the best and worst aspects of life in Costa Rica and IrelandWilla's co-authored books, blending humour, personal stories, and cultural insights 🎙️ Guest: Willa Goodfellow An Episcopal priest and author who has lived across Colorado, Costa Rica, and Ireland. She’s a curious storyteller who writes about community, identity, and the humour of living abroad. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willagoodfellow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillaGoodfellowAuthor Substack: https://willagoodfellow.substack.com/ Website: https://willagoodfellow.com/ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Riversideis your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #65 | The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow

  3. 6 Jul

    Almost Local #64 | The Unexpected Emotional Crash of Moving Back Home with Annegret Bertsch

    In this episode, we explore the emotional and practical realities of living abroad and returning home. Annegret Bertsch, a coach specializing in expats and repatriation, shares her insights on navigating identity shifts, cultural differences, and the unexpected challenges of reintegration. Key topics: - The emotional side of returning home after years abroad, including grief and identity shifts - How living in different countries like the US, China, and Germany shapes personal and cultural identity - The importance of emotional support and coaching in managing expatriation and repatriation challenges - Strategies for coping with reverse culture shock and maintaining a sense of belonging - Lessons learned from cultural differences, such as humility and positivity, and what we can import from other societies - The role of intentional community-building and self-awareness in successful international transitions 🎙️ Guest: Annegret Bertsch A coach specializing in supporting expats and those navigating repatriation, drawing from her personal experiences of living in multiple countries like the US, China, and Germany. Her journey highlights the emotional and cultural challenges of international transitions, emphasizing the importance of coaching in finding purpose and adapting to new environments. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ Podcast: https://www.open.spotify.com/episode/1XymUwA8EZodRRPJ3NkB4r?si=FHiUl_XKRRCDGfjjJi9hEQ Website: https://www.coaching-because.com Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. Slate and Key: Thinking about relocating to Portugal? Slate & Key offers step-by-step support to guide you through the process. Start with their free webinar to understand exactly what it takes to make the move. Check out the free webinar! PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #64 | The Unexpected Emotional Crash of Moving Back Home with Annegret Bertsch

  4. 29 Jun

    Almost Local #63 | Is Leaving Home Worth It? The Real Cost of Living Abroad with Lisa La Valle

    This episode offers a deep dive into the unseen forces shaping expatriates' experiences, with Lisa La Valle sharing her journey across countries, cultures, and careers. Discover how cultural awareness influences not just adaptation but personal growth, and learn practical strategies to thrive abroad. Key Topics: The invisible forces of culture and their influence on behaviorThe evolution of Lisa’s expatriate identity over timeHow understanding your own culture is crucial for successful adaptationThe role of self-reflection in navigating cultural differencesPractical tools: the 101 Culture Hacks book and how it simplifies cultural intelligenceThe impact of language as both a practical tool and emotional doorwayCost of living as a motivation for relocating and lifestyle choicesBalancing cultural traits of origin with new cultural influencesThe importance of kindness and humility in cross-cultural encountersHow to develop social anchors and avoid expatriate isolationThe transformation from eager newcomer to confident residentInsights into the emotional landscape of expatriates and common challengesThe significance of continuous learning and curiosity in midlife abroad 🎙️ Guest: Lisa La Valle A cultural anthropologist and cross-cultural trainer who has lived and worked across various countries, sharing her insights on cultural adaptation and identity. She is also the author of "101 Culture Hacks," a guide aimed at helping expatriates navigate cultural differences effectively. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expatwhisperer Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/expatwhisperer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalistagal Book: https://a.co/d/0iN2bvDZ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Riversideis your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #63 | Is Leaving Home Worth It? The Real Cost of Living Abroad with Lisa La Valle

  5. 22 Jun

    Almost Local #62 | The Honest Reality of Being Location Independent with Bobby Casey

    In this episode, Bobby Casey shares his journey of living in multiple countries, building online businesses, and managing a remote team — all while traveling the world. His experience offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and digital nomads aiming to incorporate location independence into their lives. Key topics: - Bobby’s early influences and shift from a traditional upbringing to a travel-oriented lifestyle - How travel and cultural adaptation shaped his entrepreneurial mindset - The logistics and mindset behind managing multiple companies remotely - The importance of cultivating a culture of remote work within a team - Insights into international tax residency, compliance, and how to optimize for location independence 🎙️ Guest: Bobby Casey A seasoned entrepreneur and digital nomad who thrives on building businesses while exploring the world, offering unique insights into location-independent living and remote work management. 🔗 Guest Links All links: https://linktr.ee/taxjesus Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BusinessAnywhere/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessanywhereio Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessanywhere.io Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BusinessAnywhereLLC YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@businessanywhere Websites: https://businessanywhere.io/ and https://globalwealthprotection.com/ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. Slate and Key: Thinking about relocating to Portugal? Slate & Key offers step-by-step support to guide you through the process. Start with their free webinar to understand exactly what it takes to make the move. Check out the free webinar! PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #62 | The Honest Reality of Being Location Independent with Bobby Casey

  6. 15 Jun

    Almost Local #61 | Balkans Life: The EU Move that Transformed My Identity and Perspective with Chanoa Inez

    In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Chanoa Inez, a fearless American who transitioned from New York to the Balkans, lived in Montenegro, and built a life rich with cultural exploration and personal growth. She shares the emotional journey behind her relocations, the challenges of language learning, and her work bridging personal development with professional branding. If you're curious about embracing change or moving abroad, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips. Main insights covered: - How a chance visit in Montenegro turned into a full-time residence after a profound in-person connection and cultural immersion. - The emotional impact of grief and loss, and how living abroad can aid in healing and reconnecting with oneself. - Navigating the logistics and cultural differences of moving to Serbia and Montenegro as a foreigner, including language learning and social integration. - The unique lifestyle contrasts between Serbia’s vibrant city life and Montenegro’s slow-paced seaside living. - The importance of self-love, mental health, and spiritual practices in rebuilding confidence after personal tragedies. 🎙️ Guest: Chanoa Inez A transformative storyteller and cultural explorer who empowers others through her journey of personal growth and resilience across diverse global landscapes. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanoainez/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanoa/ Website: https://www.chanoainez.com/ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.StartAbroadPersonalised relocation services for Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal and Spain. Code 5%: ALMOSTLOCADisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #61 | Balkans Life: The EU Move that Transformed My Identity and Perspective with Chanoa Inez

  7. 8 Jun

    Almost Local #60 | The Reality of Being a Foreigner in Dubai: Life after a football career with Marcelo Mercuri

    In this episode, Marcelo Mercuri shares his journey from a professional football goalkeeper spanning four continents to becoming an investor and real estate expert in Dubai. His story provides a unique perspective on adapting to new cultures, planning for life after sports, and thriving in a dynamic city like Dubai. Key Topics: The cultural and logistical differences of football in Greece, Spain, Australia, and the USHow Marcelo prepared financially and professionally for life after football starting at age 25The decision-making process behind moving to Dubai and integrating into its expat communityInsights on living in Dubai: costs, lifestyle, public transport, and social integrationHis approach to investing in real estate and supporting other athletes' financial futuresHow global events, such as regional conflicts, influence expatriates living in DubaiPractical advice for those considering a move to Dubai based on Marcelo's experience 🎙️ Guest: Marcelo Mercuri Former professional goalkeeper, now a real estate and investment advisor in Dubai, with a rich career spanning four continents. His insights reveal what it takes to adapt, succeed, and build a new life outside the spotlight—preparedness, curiosity, and strategic thinking. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercurimarcelo/ and https://www.instagram.com/o.picco/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarceloMercuriDubai Website: https://www.mercuridubai.com/ Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. Slate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #60 | The Reality of Being a Foreigner in Dubai: Life after a football career with Marcelo Mercuri

  8. 1 Jun

    Almost Local #59 | When Everything Changes, Home Becomes Internal with Nina Aziz Justin

    In this episode, Nina Aziz Justin shares her inspiring story of moving across borders, building resilience, and redefining belonging amidst cultural shifts. Her journey from Malaysia to Europe, her professional evolution, and her experiences with family challenges offer powerful insights into adapting and thriving in change. We discuss: Her decision to study abroad at 17 and the courage required for such a leapHow her daughter’s rare genetic condition reshaped her perspective on resilience and life prioritiesPractical tips for adapting to Dutch culture, language learning, and navigating the housing market 🎙️ Guest: Nina Aziz Justin A business resilience mentor and author who has navigated life across multiple cultures, using her experiences to help others build resilience and adaptability in their personal and professional lives. Her journey from Malaysia to Europe, coupled with her role as a mother to a special needs child, has shaped her unique perspective on identity, belonging, and the power of reinvention. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://instagram.com/nina.aziz.justin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninaazizjustin/ Website: https://theresiliencementor.com/ Book: https://mybook.to/thehomewithin Send us a message! Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10. StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal. Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL. StartAbroadPersonalised relocation services for Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal and Spain. Code 5%: ALMOSTLOCASlate and KeyThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Level8Use code LEVEL8Expat10 for 10% off your next high-quality travel suitcase.PodMatchLike a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    Almost Local #59 | When Everything Changes, Home Becomes Internal with Nina Aziz Justin
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Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories shares honest, human stories of people building lives and homes abroad. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the channel explores what it really means to live somewhere new, beyond visas, checklists, and highlight reels.Through in-depth conversations with people living abroad around the world, we talk about belonging, identity, culture shock, community, and the slow process of becoming almost local. These are stories about finding home in unfamiliar places, navigating life between cultures, and redefining where you’re from.Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life elsewhere, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences of life beyond borders.New episodes weekly feature personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.

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