Expat Focus

Expat Focus: For Anyone Moving Or Living Abroad
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Expat experiences, information and advice for anyone moving or living abroad. Visit Expat Focus at expatfocus.com for more.

  1. 24 FEB

    Could You Retire In Thailand For Less Than €400 A Month?

    American military nurse Lisa Denmark joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about retiring in Chiang Mai, Thailand — and why she has never looked back. After eight years working for the US military in Germany, Lisa faced a visa deadline that forced a decision: return to the States, or start over somewhere new. She chose Thailand, moved sight unseen, and hasn't left since. Lisa shares how she landed on Chiang Mai, what it was really like to arrive during COVID lockdown, and why the city's calm, small-town feel won her over completely. Lisa breaks down the real cost of living — from a three-bedroom house in a gated community for 310 euros a month to a full Thai meal delivered for under a euro — and walks through the visa journey from visa-exempt to education visa to retirement visa. She also gets into the wilder side of expat life: finding rentals through word-of-mouth (and one very memorable connection), the challenges of bringing a 40kg service dog to a country that doesn't recognise service animals, several scooter wrecks, and major surgery covered entirely by her Thai health insurance. If you're considering retiring abroad on a fixed income, this episode is packed with practical insight, honest numbers, and a lot of heart. #ExpatLife #RetireAbroad #LivingInThailand #ChiangMai #ThailandExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Introducing Lisa Denmark 05:29 Arriving in Chiang Mai During Lockdown 06:40 COVID Logistics and Quarantine 07:53 Chiang Mai Cost of Living Breakdown 11:44 Retirement Visa 16:26 Finding Rentals by Word of Mouth 19:04 Bringing a Service Dog to Thailand 21:56 Chiang Mai Expat Scene Today 23:00 Healthcare Insurance and Pharmacies 26:20 Travel Insurance Reality 28:45 Medical Culture Differences 32:41 Scooter Wreck Stories 34:57 Living Without Thai 37:20 Retirement Daily Routine 41:27 Finding Community in Chiang Mai 46:01 Future Plans 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/thailand/podcast/could-you-retire-in-thailand-for-less-than-400-a-month 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    20 min

  2. 17 FEB

    How To Move To Europe On A Student Visa (No Job Required)

    Travis Drews, founder of the Global Citizen Hub, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss an often-overlooked route to moving abroad: student visas. Originally from the US and now based in Berlin, he shares how his own international journey — and a surprising message from family — led him to help others find realistic migration pathways, even without a job offer, investment capital, or a partner overseas. He explains why student visas are among the most accessible relocation options, challenging misconceptions about age limits, work restrictions, and cost. Travis highlights the wide range of scholarships across Europe, including programs with free or low-cost tuition, and outlines where students can work part-time while studying. He also clarifies which student visas count toward permanent residency and which serve as stepping stones, stressing the need to plan long term from the outset. For those considering a career change or seeking a foothold in Europe, the episode offers practical guidance on selecting programs, meeting language requirements, and using education as a pathway to a new life abroad. #expatlifestyle #StudentVisa #MoveToEurope #StudyAbroad #EuropeExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Meet Travis Drews: An American in Berlin 03:01 Introducing Global Citizen Hub 05:31 Student Visas: A Pathway to Moving Abroad 09:49 Challenges and Realities of Student Visas 15:36 Scholarships and Affordable Education in Europe 24:05 Finding the Right Study Program 28:01 Conclusion and Contact Information 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast/how-to-move-to-europe-on-a-student-visa-no-job-required 📝 Show Notes Global Citizen Hub – https://www.theglobalcitizenhub.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    31 min

  3. 19/12/2025

    Could You Live in Bali? Here's What It's Really Like

    Australian expat consultant Simone Collins joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about turning a Bali "gap year" into a life-changing two-year relocation — and helping others do the same. Founder of Our Year in Bali, Simone shares how a family experiment became a full-scale move, what daily life in Bali really looks like, and why so many people dream of making the island home. She explains who Bali is best suited for — from families with young children to digital nomads and retirees — and breaks down practical considerations like schooling, visas, healthcare, housing, and cost of living. Simone also discusses the realities of leasehold property, transport challenges, accessibility for older expats, and how Bali's hospitality-driven culture shapes expat life on the island. If you're considering moving to Bali — whether for a sabbatical, remote work, or retirement — this episode offers honest insights, real-world budgeting advice, and expert guidance to help you decide if Bali is the right fit. #ExpatLife #LivingInBali #MoveToBali #BaliExpats #DigitalNomads #RetireAbroad #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Simone Collins' Journey to Bali 01:15 Starting 'Our Year in Bali' Consultancy 03:12 Challenges and Decisions in Bali 05:55 Ideal Demographics for Moving to Bali 08:24 Visa Options for Long-Term Stay 12:31 Housing and Real Estate in Bali 16:20 Popular Areas for Long-Term Expats 20:52 Accessibility and Transport Considerations 22:36 Health Insurance Essentials for Expats 26:05 Navigating Language Barriers 27:17 Education Options for Expats' Children 30:56 Community and Cultural Integration 33:57 Cost of Living and Budgeting in Bali 37:58 How to Plan Your Move to Bali 40:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/indonesia/podcast/could-you-live-in-bali-heres-what-its-really-like 📝 Show Notes Our Year in Bali – https://ouryearinbali.com/ 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    41 min

  4. 18/12/2025

    Financial Planning Essentials For Americans Living Overseas

    Financial advisor Tom Zachystal joins the Expat Focus Podcast to break down what Americans need to think about financially before moving abroad. As President of International Asset Management — and an expat himself — Tom shares practical guidance based on decades of experience helping US citizens navigate life overseas. Tom explains why Americans can never fully "leave" the US tax system, how citizenship-based taxation, FATCA, and FBAR reporting affect expats, and why many banks now hesitate to work with Americans living abroad. He also explores common banking challenges, transferring money internationally, and misconceptions around cash limits when crossing borders. If you're an American planning an international move — whether for work, retirement, or lifestyle — this episode offers clear, experience-backed advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and plan with confidence. #ExpatLife #AmericanExpats #MovingAbroad #USExpats #ExpatFinance #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:49 Tom's Background and Expertise 02:18 Financial Steps for Americans Moving Abroad 03:09 Banking Challenges for US Expats 13:33 Understanding FATCA and FBAR 16:35 Health Insurance Considerations 23:09 Currency Fluctuations and Financial Planning 25:31 Emergency Liquidity and Financial Planning Apps 28:41 The Role of Financial Advisors 33:24 Conclusion and Contact Information 🎥 Video & Transcript https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast/financial-planning-essentials-for-americans-living-overseas 📝 Show Notes IAM Advisors – https://iamadvisors.com/ 👉 Follow Expat Focus RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    36 min

  5. 29/10/2025

    What Is Life In Spain Really Like For Expats?

    What does moving to Spain really look like for non-EU nationals? And how can you tell if it's the right move for you? In this episode of the Expat Focus Podcast, James Blick, founder of Spain Revealed, joins host Carlie Bonavia to share what life in Spain is actually like — beyond the beaches and tapas. James explains why your vision for life in Spain matters more than the visa paperwork at the start, and how getting clear on your desired rhythm — your day-to-day pace and priorities — can make or break your relocation. He discusses lifestyle differences across regions, common misconceptions about Spanish life, popular visa options (including updates to the Digital Nomad Visa), and practical tips on choosing where to live, budgeting, and building community. Whether you're planning to retire early, work remotely, or simply embrace a slower lifestyle, this episode offers the clarity you need to move to Spain with confidence.  #MoveToSpain #LivingInSpain #SpainRevealed #DigitalNomadVisa #ExpatLife #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Guest Introduction: James Blick 01:09 James' Journey to Spain 02:24 Founding Spain Revealed and Devour Tours 03:21 The Impact of the Pandemic and Pivot to Relocation 04:31 Top Nationalities Moving to Spain 06:12 Misunderstandings About Life in Spain 10:08 Choosing the Right Location in Spain 16:00 Key Considerations for Moving to Spain 19:57 Digital Nomad Visa Updates 27:21 Navigating Spanish Bureaucracy 27:45 Healthcare Requirements for Non-Lucrative Visa 29:23 Common Pitfalls in Moving to Spain 32:12 Cultural Adjustments and Expectations 36:46 Finding Your Rhythm in Spain 41:56 Building Community and Seeking Advice 45:12 The Importance of Learning Spanish 48:30 Resources for Moving to Spain 🎥 Video/Transcript –  https://www.expatfocus.com/spain/podcast/what-is-life-in-spain-really-like-for-expats 📝 Show Notes Spain Revealed – https://social.spainrevealed.com/i_IP  👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    50 min

  6. 28/10/2025

    How To Choose The Best Country For Your Move Abroad

    Data-driven relocation consultant Vasily Yurenkov joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss how numbers — not just gut instinct — can guide your move abroad. When political turmoil forced him to leave Russia, Vasily and his wife used his analytical model to decide where to rebuild their lives. Now based in Amsterdam, he helps others choose their ideal destination by comparing 600+ data points across countries and cities. In this episode, Vasily explains why most expats make relocation decisions emotionally rather than logically, what happens when data contradicts "dream destinations," and how personal values and cultural fit factor into his analysis. He also shares why some clients end up staying put after all, and how to avoid falling into an "abusive relationship" with your new country. If you're planning an international move — or questioning if your adopted country is truly right for you — this conversation offers a fascinating, evidence-based perspective on finding your best fit abroad. #ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #Relocation #ExpatFocus #DigitalNomads #LivingOverseas 👉 Visit Expat Focus: https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:42 Vasily's Relocation Journey 02:26 Choosing Between the UK and Amsterdam 03:47 Challenges with UK Visa and Final Decision 07:18 The Five-Month Road Trip 08:51 Importance of Data in Relocation Decisions 18:26 Client Profiles and Data-Driven Approach 20:08 Common Misconceptions About Moving to Italy 20:24 Surprising Results from Data-Driven Analysis 21:12 Practical Tips for Testing Your Top Destinations 21:56 Deciding Not to Move After All 24:06 The Role of Personal Values in Choosing a Country 32:15 The Importance of a Fresh Perspective 35:44 The Limitations and Pitfalls of Data 38:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/how-to-choose-the-best-country-for-your-move-abroad 📝 Show Notes Greener Relocation – https://greener.im 👉 Follow Expat Focus: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    40 min

  7. 25/09/2025

    Untangling French Bureaucracy: How A Relocation Concierge Can Help

    Relocation concierge Ashley Sourci joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about moving to France — and tackling the country's infamous bureaucracy. Originally from California, Ashley shares how she fell in love with French life, the challenges she faced setting up on her own, and why she now helps others navigate the endless paperwork and catch-22s of settling in. She explains what a relocation concierge does, the difference between standard relocation services and her high-touch "handholding" approach, and why even locals struggle with French administration. Ashley also breaks down typical costs, the realities of official translations, and how to avoid common pitfalls like stalled bank accounts and driver's license delays. If you're considering a move to France — or already drowning in French paperwork — this episode offers practical insights, real-life experiences, and advice to make your transition smoother. #ExpatLife #LivingInFrance #MoveToFrance #FrenchBureaucracy #FranceExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:56 Ashley's Journey to France 04:40 Challenges of Relocating to France 07:24 Role of a Relocation Concierge 14:52 Pricing and Client Involvement 19:56 Documentation and Language Barriers 25:29 Finding the Right Relocation Service 27:48 Ashley's Personal Reflections and Contact Information 30:33 Final Thoughts 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/france/podcast/untangling-french-bureaucracy-how-a-relocation-concierge-can-help 📝 Show Notes Ashley's Website – https://chezmoialsace.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    31 min

  8. 18/09/2025

    Why Expats Trust Mexico For Affordable, Modern Healthcare

    American blogger Kirsten Raccuia returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to share her experiences with healthcare in Mexico. After relocating from Malaysia with her husband, Kirsten has navigated everything from pharmacy visits to surgery — and she opens up about the realities of medical care as a foreign resident. She explains why Mexico is a hub for medical tourism, how costs compare with the USA, and what expats should know about insurance and out-of-pocket expenses. Kirsten also highlights cultural differences in patient care, the role of word-of-mouth in finding trusted doctors, and the surprising accessibility of treatments. If you're considering a move to Mexico — or curious about how healthcare abroad stacks up — this episode offers candid insights and practical advice. #ExpatLife #HealthcareMexico #LivingInMexico #MedicalTourism #MexicoExpats #ExpatFocus 👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com 🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/mexico/podcast/why-expats-trust-mexico-for-affordable-modern-healthcare 📝 Show Notes Kirsten's Blog – https://sandinmycurls.com 👉 Follow Expat Focus here: RSS | https://www.expatfocus.com/feed YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ExpatFocus Podcast | https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast LinkedIn Page | https://www.linkedin.com/company/expatfocus LinkedIn Group | https://www.linkedin.com/groups/673267 X | https://x.com/expatfocus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/expatfocus Bluesky | https://bsky.app/profile/expatfocus.bsky.social Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/expatfocus TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@expatfocus Mastodon | https://mastodon.social/@expatfocus Website | https://www.expatfocus.com

    37 min
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Descrizione

Expat experiences, information and advice for anyone moving or living abroad. Visit Expat Focus at expatfocus.com for more.

Informazioni

  • Creatore
    Expat Focus: For Anyone Moving Or Living Abroad
  • Anni di attività
    2010 - 2026
  • Puntate
    162
  • Classificazione
    Contenuti adatti a tutti
  • Copyright
    © Expat Focus 2024
  • Sito web del podcast
    Expat Focus

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