Black Expat Life Abroad | Moving Abroad Resources for Black Travelers

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I’m RJ Mood, a 38-year-old American expat who left the U.S. rat race in 2023 to thrive abroad—now I help you do the same. On Black Expat Life Abroad, we share real conversations on preparing to leave the U.S., choosing the right destination, and thriving overseas. Get free relocation guides, expert tips on visas, housing, healthcare & more, plus tours in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, South Africa & beyond. 🌍 Subscribe, comment & join our community. IG: @BlackExpatLifeAbroad | MOODTravelAbroad.com

  1. 10/12/2025

    Is Panama the Top Choice for Black Americans Leaving the US? Get the Insider Scoop

    ➡️ Ready to trade the American rat race for a life of peace and prosperity? Your A-Z blueprint awaits at the MOOD Travel Virtual Relocation Conference on November 22, 2025. Secure your Early Bird ticket NOW before prices go up: https://www.moodtravelabroad.com Is the American Dream feeling more like a financial nightmare? Are you tired of the constant stress, the political division, and a cost of living that makes it impossible to get ahead, let alone plan for retirement? You are not alone. A growing wave of Black Americans is looking for an exit strategy—a path to a life with less stress, more freedom, and a genuine sense of peace. And increasingly, all signs are pointing south to one country in particular: Panama. But is the buzz real? Is Panama truly the top choice for Black Americans leaving the US, or is it just the latest trend fueled by hype? In this must-watch, in-depth conversation, RJ MOOD, founder of Black Expat Life Abroad, sits down with the ultimate insider, Big Will of Go Explore Panama. They're cutting through the noise, busting the myths, and giving you the unfiltered truth about what life is really like for Black expats in the Hub of the Americas. This isn't your typical travel vlog. This is a strategic, honest discussion designed to answer the biggest questions and concerns you have about making a life-changing move. Forget the conflicting advice from random Facebook forums and the outdated information from Google searches. Big Will has been on the ground for years, helping countless individuals and families make a seamless transition. He shares the raw, uncensored reality—the incredible pros, the potential cons, and the critical information you absolutely need to know before you even think about booking a flight. If you are serious about changing your life, securing your financial future, and finding a community where you can truly thrive, this conversation is your starting point. 🛑 STOP THE ENDLESS SCROLLING. YOUR BLUEPRINT TO A NEW LIFE IS HERE. 🛑 Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information? Tired of spending countless nights in the rabbit hole of YouTube videos and confusing Reddit threads, only to end up with more questions than answers? You are not alone. The biggest obstacle standing between you and your dream of a life abroad is the lack of a clear, trusted, and comprehensive plan. That is exactly why we created the MOOD Travel Virtual Relocation Conference, happening live on Saturday, November 22, 2025. This is not another webinar. This is a one-day, intensive virtual event designed to be your A-Z roadmap to a successful move abroad. We have done the exhaustive research, vetted the experts, and built the network so you don't have to. We are bringing all the critical resources directly to you, all in one place, all in one day. This conference is your one-stop solution to save you months of stressful research and thousands of dollars in costly mistakes.

    57 min

  2. 09/22/2025

    Digital Nomad Visas Explained | Who They’re For & How You Can Get One

    Digital Nomad Visas, explained—without the fluff. If you’re researching how to move abroad and want the real-life view for Black expat life, this is your starting line. A Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) lets you live legally in another country while earning from clients or employers outside that country. Translation: more stability than tourist stamp roulette, less stress, more time to build a life. Who it’s for:• Remote employees (US or global companies).• Freelancers/contractors (design, marketing, coding, writing, coaching).• Online business owners (e-commerce, agencies, creators).If your income is online + portable, you’re in the conversation. Why Black expats choose DNVs:• Freedom & safety planning: choose vetted neighborhoods, set routines, and stay longer to really learn a place.• Cost of living wins: quality housing and experiences in Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Playa del Carmen, Panama City, Cape Town.• Community & belonging: time to meet other Black expats, tap Afro-descendant culture, and build a support circle that has your back.• Legit paperwork: opens doors for leases, banking, long-term plans. Common requirements (varies by country):• Proof of remote income (often a monthly minimum).• Passport valid at least 6–12 months.• Health insurance that covers you abroad.• Background check (sometimes apostilled).• Consulate/online application + fees.Tip: organize docs in a single PDF folder; label clearly; keep digital + printed copies. How to choose your destination:• Lifestyle: beach (Santa Marta, Playa del Carmen), city energy (Medellín, Panama City), coastal city + mountains (Cape Town), history/culture (Cartagena).• Budget: compare monthly rent, co-working, SIM/internet, transport, groceries.• Community: join local WhatsApp/Facebook groups for Black expats; watch what people say about safety, landlords, and visas.• Time zone & work: align your work hours with US clients if needed. Step-by-step game plan (30/60/90):• Days 1–30: shortlist 2–3 cities. Read that country’s official DNV page. Draft your budget. Assemble docs (income letters, bank statements, insurance, background check).• Days 31–60: apply for the visa or book a recon trip. Schedule calls with an immigration attorney/consultant. Join 2–3 local groups (Medellín/Cartagena/Santa Marta, Playa del Carmen, Panama City, Cape Town) and introduce yourself with what you can offer (cowork accountability, Spanish buddy, gym partner).• Days 61–90: secure housing (short-term first), set up co-working + phone plan, start your weekly ritual (Sunday potluck, Wednesday salsa, Friday cowork café). Consistency = community. Avoid these mistakes:• Relying on random DMs—ask for references + receipts.• Paying deposits without contracts/inspections.• Ignoring tax/residency rules—talk to a pro before you commit.• Treating the DNV like a shortcut to permanent residency—learn the long game early. City notes:• Medellín: spring weather, metro, great co-working, big expat presence.• Cartagena/Santa Marta: Caribbean vibe; plan for heat; beach + history.• Playa del Carmen: beach life, strong digital nomad scene, easy flights.• Panama City: banking hub, modern infrastructure, flight connections.• Cape Town: epic scenery, creative scene, seasonal considerations—plan housing/safety smart. We built the roadmap so you don’t have to guess. Save this, share with someone ready to move, and grab our free resources + relocation guides at moodtravelabroad.com to learn how to move to Colombia (Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta), Mexico (Playa del Carmen), Panama (Panama City), and South Africa (Cape Town).Then subscribe on YouTube: Black Expat Life Abroad for step-by-step breakdowns, neighborhood deep dives, and real life abroad. Let’s make your journey abroad a breeze. ✈️🌍

    1h 1m

  3. 09/22/2025

    Why Americans Move Abroad for Freedom, Safety & a Better Life

    If you’ve been asking, “Why do Americans move abroad—and what’s real life like for Black expats?” here’s the truth we see every day: moving abroad is less about running from the U.S. and more about running toward freedom, safety, and a better life. 🖤✈️ What changes when you move?• Freedom & Balance: Your days aren’t ruled by commute + chaos. In places like Medellín, Playa Del Carmen, Panama City, and Cape Town, a slower pace and outdoor lifestyle help you breathe again.• Safety, Intentionally: We choose vetted neighborhoods, commute in daylight, tap community intel, and build local routines. Safety is a strategy, not a mystery.• Cost of Living Wins: More value for your money—housing, fresh food, fitness, and weekly experiences that used to be “special occasion” back home.• Healthcare Access: Preventive care and dental that won’t wreck your budget.• Belonging: Black expat communities + Afro-descendant culture = connection, affirmation, and joy.• Career Flexibility: Remote work abroad, global clients, or local opportunities—multiple paths to sustainable income and lifestyle design. What real life looks like:• Morning café + cowork, Spanish class, park walks, WhatsApp group hangs, weekend day trips.• A circle of friends who check on you, share rentals and lawyer contacts, and pull up for Sunday potlucks.• Clear boundaries around money, safety, and time—because peace > proving. How to start (3-week action plan):Week 1: Pick your destination short-list (Colombia, Mexico, Panama, South Africa). Read up on visas, neighborhoods, and budgets.Week 2: Join 2 local expat/Black diaspora groups. Introduce yourself with what you can offer (accountability cowork, gym buddy, apartment scouting tips).Week 3: Book a recon trip or line up virtual consults (immigration, housing, healthcare). Draft your 90-day move plan: budget, neighborhood, income stream. Red flags to avoid:• Relying on random DMs—ask for references + receipts.• Signing long leases without walkthroughs + contracts.• Skipping the visa/tax conversation—protect your status and your coins. Where MOOD Travel Abroad helps:We’ve made the road map simple: free resources + relocation guides that cover visas/residency basics, safety routines, neighborhood picks, cost-of-living examples, remote work options, and vetted pros—so you can land softly in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, or South Africa. If you’re thinking of moving abroad and ready for freedom, safety, community, and a better life, this is your sign.👉 Save this video for your move, share it with someone who’s ready, and tap moodtravelabroad.com to grab our free guides and checklists. Let’s make your journey abroad a breeze. 🌍 #WhyMoveAbroad #BlackExpats #MoveAbroad #BlackTravel #ExpatLife #AfricanAmericanTravel #Diaspora #RemoteWorkAbroad #RealLifeAbroad #CostOfLiving #HealthcareAbroad #DigitalNomad #RelocationGuide #Colombia #Mexico #Panama #SouthAfrica #Medellin #CDMX #PanamaCity #CapeTown #BlackInTravel #LiveAbroad #HowToMoveAbroad #SaferHappierLife #QualityOfLife

    1h 6m

  4. 09/22/2025

    Building Community Abroad: How Black Expats Find Friends, Support & Belonging Anywhere

    Moving abroad isn’t just visas + vibes—it’s finding your people. If you’re a Black expat (or future one) eyeing Colombia, Mexico, Panama, or South Africa, this is your roadmap to friends, support, and belonging—so your new life actually feels like home. 🖤🌍 The real talk: loneliness, bad info, and “who can I trust?” derail great plans. Community fixes that. Here’s how to build it fast (and safely): 1) Go where community already existsCoworking spaces, language exchanges, Afro-diaspora events, faith communities, sports/dance classes, and volunteer orgs. Show up 3–5 times—consistency turns “hey” into “family.” 2) Join digital spaces that stay localWhatsApp, Facebook groups, and Meetups for Black expats + your city (Medellín, Cartagena, CDMX, Panama City, Cape Town). Introduce yourself with what you can offer (skills, weekly coffee walk, gym buddy, co-working accountability). 3) Use “micro-invites”“Headed to Saturday market at 11—2 spare spots if you want to roll.” Low pressure. Clear plan. People say yes to specifics. 4) Build trust like a localAsk for references. Read contracts. Pay with receipts. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Community = shared intel that protects your coins and your peace. 5) Tap into Afro-descendant cultureFood tours, music nights, history walks, Afro hair + skincare spots. Culture is where connections stick. 6) Create your own ritualSunday potluck, Wednesday salsa, Friday cowork café. Rituals make home feel real—and give new friends a reason to return. 7) Ask better questions“Where do folks our age actually hang?” “Who’s your honest landlord?” “Which gyms/clinics do Black expats rate?” Targeted questions save months of trial-and-error. What to avoid (so you don’t burn out):• Waiting for friends to find you—be the spark.• Oversharing your location/itinerary with strangers—move smart.• Relying on one person for everything—diversify your circle.• Skipping legal/financial basics—community can point you to vetted pros. Why MOOD Travel Abroad?We’ve walked this road. Our free resources + relocation guides give you the playbook: neighborhoods, budgets, safety tips, vetted experts, and community hubs—so you land softly in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, or South Africa with clarity and confidence. Action plan for this week:• Join 2 local groups + send 1 intro message.• Attend 1 in-person event.• Host 1 micro-invite (coffee walk or co-work hour).Repeat for 3 weeks. Watch your circle grow. If you’re thinking of moving abroad and ready to turn the dream into a plan, we’ve got you. Save this, share with someone moving abroad, and hit moodtravelabroad.com for free guides, checklists, and trusted referrals. Let’s make your journey abroad a breeze. ✈️ #BlackExpats #MoveAbroad #BlackTravel #ExpatLife #BlackInTravel #Diaspora #DigitalNomad #RelocationGuide #RemoteWorkAbroad #RealLifeAbroad #Colombia #Mexico #Panama #SouthAfrica #Medellin #Cartagena #CDMX #PanamaCity #CapeTown #AfricanAmericanTravel #CommunityAbroad #BlackDigitalNomad #HowToMoveAbroad #LivingAbroadTips #BlackDiaspora #TravelSmarter #NewCountryNewLife

    50 min

  5. 09/12/2025

    How to Find Housing Abroad Safely: Expat Guide to Avoiding Rental Scams

    How to Find Housing Abroad Safely: Expat Guide to Avoiding Rental Scams | Black Expat Life Abroad Moving abroad is exciting, but finding safe and reliable housing as an expat can feel overwhelming—especially with the rise of online rental scams targeting foreigners. In this video, I break down how to find housing abroad safely, the red flags of fake listings, and the best strategies to protect yourself when renting in another country. Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or adventure, this Expat Housing Guide will give you step-by-step advice on what to look for, what to avoid, and how to set yourself up for success in your new home abroad. As a Black expat living in Colombia, I share insights not only from my own journey but also from countless expats who’ve faced challenges finding trustworthy landlords, real estate agents, and rental platforms. My goal is to make sure you don’t fall for common traps that could cost you time, money, or even your safety. ✅ How to spot rental scams abroad before it’s too late ✅ The safest websites and platforms for finding expat housing ✅ Why in-person visits (or trusted local contacts) matter ✅ Essential lease and contract tips for international rentals ✅ How to avoid being overcharged as a foreigner ✅ What every Black expat should know about navigating housing abroad safely Black expats relocating abroad for the first time Digital nomads seeking long-term rentals overseas Retirees moving to Latin America, Africa, Europe, or Asia Families planning safe housing options in a new country Anyone tired of dealing with housing scams abroad As Black travelers and expats, we often face unique challenges when navigating life abroad—from cultural misunderstandings to higher risks of being targeted by scams. 🌍 Join the MOOD Travel Club for group trips + relocation support: moodtravelclub.com\moodtravelabroad.com 📺 Watch more videos on Youtube Black Expat Life Abroad expat housing guide, how to find housing abroad, avoiding rental scams, housing abroad safely, black expat housing tips, expat relocation Colombia, living abroad safely, international rental scams, black expat life abroad, moving abroad tips, digital nomad housing, black travelers abroad, housing tips for expats, rental advice for expats, safe housing abroad. 💬 Question of the Day:What’s your biggest concern about finding housing abroad? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your story and share advice. About This Channel:Welcome to Black Expat Life in Colombia with RJ Mood—your go-to channel for relocation tips, travel hacks, and Black expat experiences worldwide. If you’re thinking about moving abroad, traveling long-term, or starting fresh in a new country, you’re in the right place. 👉 Don’t forget to Like, Comment & Subscribe for weekly expat guides, Black travel stories, and housing tips abroad!

    1 hr

  6. 09/11/2025

    Ready to Move Abroad? 10 Essential Questions to Answer Before You Go

    🎥 Black Expat Life Abroad Episode: Ready to Move Abroad? 10 Essential Questions to Answer Before You Go So you’ve been daydreaming about packing your bags, booking that one-way ticket, and starting fresh in another country. The thought of leaving behind the stress, hustle, and chaos of your current life sounds amazing. But before you make the leap, there’s something important you need to know: moving abroad isn’t just about changing your location—it’s about changing your life. And that means preparation is key. In this episode of Black Expat Life Abroad, RJ Mood walks you through the 10 essential questions every future expat needs to answer before relocating overseas. These aren’t just practical checkboxes—they’re the core questions that help you clarify your goals, avoid costly mistakes, and set yourself up for success as a Black expat living abroad. Your “Why” for Moving AbroadAre you moving to escape, to explore, or to build something new? Defining your purpose makes everything else clearer. Destination FitIs Colombia, Portugal, Ghana, or Mexico really the right place for you? Learn how to evaluate lifestyle, safety, cost of living, and culture before deciding. Visa & Legal ReadinessWhat type of visa do you qualify for? Do you have the documents, budget, and patience for the process? Financial PreparednessHow much savings should you have before moving? What income streams will support you once you’re abroad? Housing StrategyWill you rent short-term, buy property, or live nomadically? Each path comes with its own challenges. Healthcare AccessDo you know how healthcare works in your new country, and how to secure coverage that meets your needs? Community & Support SystemsWhere will you find your people? As a Black expat, finding community—both with locals and other expats—makes the transition smoother. Family & RelationshipsIf you have kids, a partner, or loved ones back home, how will this move impact those relationships? Cultural AdaptabilityAre you ready for language barriers, different norms, and unexpected frustrations? Exit StrategyWhat happens if things don’t go as planned? Having a backup plan protects your peace of mind. Too often, people romanticize the expat lifestyle without preparing for the reality. They get caught up in the idea of adventure but overlook the challenges—leading to stress, regret, or even moving back too soon. This episode is designed to give you clarity before you go. By asking yourself the right questions, you’ll move abroad with confidence, resilience, and a clear vision of the life you want to create. And for Black expats, these questions go even deeper. Moving abroad isn’t just about geography—it’s about freedom, belonging, and rewriting the narrative of how and where we can thrive. Future expats planning a move abroad in the next 6–18 months Black professionals considering relocation for freedom, affordability, or adventure Solo travelers, couples, or families preparing for a major life transition Anyone who wants to avoid the most common expat mistakes Moving abroad is one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make—but only if you plan with intention. By answering these 10 essential questions, you’ll set yourself up not just to survive your move, but to truly thrive in your new life overseas. 👉 Tune in to Ready to Move Abroad? 10 Essential Questions to Answer Before You Go and start preparing for your next chapter with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

    57 min

  7. 09/11/2025

    Tired of Hustle Culture? Here’s How Expats Find Balance Overseas

    🎥 Black Expat Life Abroad Episode: Tired of Hustle Culture? Here’s How Expats Find Balance Overseas If you’ve ever felt exhausted by the constant grind, endless side hustles, and pressure to always be “on,” you’re not alone. In the U.S. (and many other Western countries), hustle culture has become the norm—glorifying burnout as success and measuring worth only by productivity. But what happens when you step outside of that system and build a life abroad? In this episode of Black Expat Life Abroad, RJ Mood explores how expats—especially Black expats—are redefining success and finding balance overseas. Moving abroad doesn’t just change your address; it can completely shift your mindset about work, money, and what it means to truly live well. Escaping the Grind MentalityLearn why so many expats leave behind 60-hour workweeks and the constant pressure to “do more,” and how this decision opens up room for peace, creativity, and presence. The Slower Pace of Life AbroadDiscover how living in countries like Colombia, Portugal, or Mexico allows you to prioritize quality of life—where relationships, family, and community matter just as much (if not more) than climbing the career ladder. Redefining Success as a Black ExpatHear RJ’s perspective on how moving abroad shifts the focus from survival mode to thriving mode—especially for Black expats who are often overworked and undervalued back home. Financial Freedom & FlexibilityUnderstand how a lower cost of living and new income streams abroad can help you stretch your money further, work less, and finally buy back your time. Balance Beyond WorkFrom morning walks in the mountains of Medellín to lazy afternoons on Caribbean beaches, RJ shares how expats reclaim time for rest, joy, and self-discovery in ways hustle culture never allowed. So many of us grew up believing the grind was the only way—work harder, hustle more, sacrifice now, and maybe one day you’ll get to rest. But what if the rest of the world has already figured out a healthier way to live? For Black expats especially, moving abroad isn’t just about geography—it’s about liberation from systems that drain us. It’s about creating a lifestyle where we don’t just survive, we flourish. This episode is an invitation to question what you’ve been told about success and explore how life abroad can help you rewrite the rules. Anyone tired of hustle culture and craving balance Black professionals curious about living abroad Future expats who want to design a life with freedom, rest, and joy Current expats adjusting to the slower pace of life overseas Life doesn’t have to be a constant grind. Moving abroad shows us that it’s possible to live with balance, intention, and joy—without sacrificing ambition. In this episode, you’ll see how expats create space for what truly matters: wellness, community, and freedom. 👉 Tune in to Tired of Hustle Culture? Here’s How Expats Find Balance Overseas and start imagining what your life could look like without the endless grind. Don’t just chase success—create balance abroad.

    43 min

  8. 09/11/2025

    Culture Shock 101: What to Expect Your First Year Abroad

    🎥 Black Expat Life Abroad Episode: Culture Shock 101 – What to Expect Your First Year Abroad Making the leap to live abroad is exciting, empowering, and life-changing—but let’s be real: it’s not all palm trees, passports, and Instagram-worthy adventures. For Black expats, the first year abroad often comes with a powerful mix of highs and lows known as culture shock. Understanding what this feels like and how to navigate it can make the difference between thriving in your new home—or packing up too soon. In this episode of Black Expat Life Abroad, RJ Mood dives deep into Culture Shock 101, breaking down what really happens during your first year of living in a new country. If you’re planning a move or already adjusting to expat life, this conversation will give you the tools and insights you need to prepare, adapt, and grow through the transition. The 4 Stages of Culture ShockFrom the honeymoon phase to the moments of frustration, confusion, and finally adjustment—RJ unpacks the emotional rollercoaster that almost every expat faces, but few talk about openly. The Black Expat ExperienceMoving abroad as a Black traveler or expat brings its own unique set of challenges and rewards. From standing out in a new cultural context to finding community and belonging, RJ shares firsthand insights and real talk about what to expect. Daily Life AdjustmentsLearn how to navigate language barriers, different cultural norms, new foods, transportation systems, and even bureaucracy without losing your cool. Mental Health & Self-Care AbroadCulture shock doesn’t just affect your schedule—it impacts your emotions and sense of identity. RJ offers tips for staying grounded, prioritizing your well-being, and leaning into resilience during tough moments. Building Your Expat CommunityDiscover why finding “your people” abroad is critical, and how Black expats can connect with locals, other expats, and especially Afro-descendant communities to build support systems that make life richer and easier. The first year abroad can be disorienting—you’re excited, but also questioning if you made the right choice. You’re proud of your independence, but sometimes frustrated by the smallest daily tasks. And for Black expats, there’s often the added layer of navigating identity, representation, and cultural connections in unfamiliar places. This episode isn’t just about surviving culture shock—it’s about thriving through it. RJ brings honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to help you prepare for the realities of expat life, while also reminding you why you chose this path in the first place: freedom, adventure, and a deeper connection to the world. Future expats planning a move abroad Black travelers curious about long-term life overseas New expats in their first year who need guidance and reassurance Anyone struggling with homesickness, cultural differences, or adjustment fatigue Culture shock is real, but it’s not a dealbreaker. With the right mindset, tools, and community, your first year abroad can be the foundation of a beautiful, transformative journey. By the end of this episode, you’ll not only know what to expect—you’ll feel prepared to handle it with confidence. 👉 Hit play on Culture Shock 101: What to Expect Your First Year Abroad and start your journey with clarity, courage, and connection. Don’t just move abroad—thrive abroad.

    1h 5m
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About

I’m RJ Mood, a 38-year-old American expat who left the U.S. rat race in 2023 to thrive abroad—now I help you do the same. On Black Expat Life Abroad, we share real conversations on preparing to leave the U.S., choosing the right destination, and thriving overseas. Get free relocation guides, expert tips on visas, housing, healthcare & more, plus tours in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, South Africa & beyond. 🌍 Subscribe, comment & join our community. IG: @BlackExpatLifeAbroad | MOODTravelAbroad.com

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