Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories

Marc Alcobé Talló
  • 4.6 (7)
  • Personal Journals
  • 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. 11h ago

    #70 - From City to Farm Life: Benefits of a Community Focused on Food Sovereignty with Thomas Patton

    In this episode, Thomas Patton shares his journey from industrial farming to regenerative land management in Panama, explaining how his approach aims to combine ecological sustainability with community living. Listen to discover how land, food security, and innovative community models like Lega Vera are transforming lifestyles and farming practices. Key topics Thomas Patton’s background: Growing up in Panama with US roots, and his transition from bodybuilding to regenerative farmingThe principles of regenerative land management: Moving away from industrial farming, focusing on soil health and ecosystem balanceThe evolution from traditional farming to a multi-species, soil-fed farm systemThe concept of farm-to-table and how farming integrates with community storytellingThe benefits and challenges of regenerative farming: Costs, learning curve, and the importance of holistic collaborationLifestyle trade-offs: The balance between city convenience and rural authenticity, and the hybrid living model in PanamaThe cultural and social aspects of life in Panama: Diversity, language, social life, and work cultureThe vision for Lega Vera: Supporting sustainable farmers, reducing reliance on external inputs, and building resilient communities 🎙️ The guest: Thomas Patton A regenerative land manager and farmer in Panama who has transformed his family’s agricultural operation into a holistic, multi-species system focused on soil health, food security, and sustainability. He blends practical business thinking with a deep respect for nature, moving away from industrial farming toward a more resilient model that includes farm-to-table food, agrotourism, and the development of Lega Vera, a farm village designed to support like-minded people who want a closer relationship with land and food. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/thomaspatton_/https://www.instagram.com/legaverafarmvillage/https://www.instagram.com/coquirasoil/https://legavera.com/ What we discuss: 00:00 — Episode introduction2:15 — Introducing Thomas Patton “I am a regenerative land manager”6:05 — Coming back to the farm after university7:30 — Discovering the farm was doing everything wrong9:18 — Guests reacting to agrotourism and farm life12:45 — What “regenerative operation” actually means15:08 — Why nature and economics are not separate16:40 — Why Lega Vera was created18:37 — Turning the farm into a restaurant and story21:30 — What Lega Vera is as a private farm village26:50 — The learning curve and trade-offs of regeneration49:57 — How to contact Lega Vera and what it stands for Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #70 - From City to Farm Life: Benefits of a Community Focused on Food Sovereignty with Thomas Patton

  2. Aug 10

    #69 - The Hidden Challenges of Moving Abroad: Honeymoon Phase Always Ends with Simo D

    In this episode, Simo D shares his journey from a construction contractor in Canada to a digital nomad living in Belize. He offers a candid look at the realities of relocating, building new careers, and adapting to a new culture while providing practical frameworks for managing transitions abroad. Key topics: The motivations behind moving from Canada to Belize and the financial benefits of Belize's lower cost of livingThe cultural nuances of Belize, highlighting high vs. low context communication styles and the importance of cultural adaptationThe trade-offs of living a tourist-focused lifestyle versus integrating more deeply into local lifeThe significance of understanding property laws in Belize, especially concerning beachfront lands and foreign investmentThe impact of local infrastructure, power outages, and climate on daily lifePersonal insights on managing the honeymoon phase and the reality of long-term expatriate life in Belize 🎙️ Guest: Simo D A former contractor with 20 years of construction experience in Canada who relocated to Belize with his family in 2022. He’s now an AI systems designer and writer, sharing practical, unfiltered insights about expat life, career pivots, and the tradeoffs of building a new life abroad. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/foreign.radio/https://simod.substack.com/https://bottbott.substack.com/https://www.youtube.com/@ForeignRadio/https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-d-ai-systems-director-building-for-changehttps://movesmart.world/ What we discuss: 00:00 - Introduction: Who is Simo D and what drives his move to Belize02:21 - The decision to relocate: family, lifestyle, and early research02:49 - How the pandemic and medical emergencies shaped their timing03:14 - Adjusting to life in Belize: property, cost of living, and local culture03:26 - Cultural differences: high vs. low context communication05:30 - Navigating land ownership, land tensions, and community dynamics07:58 - The honeymoon phase versus real life: challenges of establishing roots09:40 - Transitioning careers: from construction to AI and content creation10:55 - Tools for discovering remote work opportunities and navigating legal requirements17:42 - Realities of tourism dependence and lifestyle trade-offs20:14 - Strategies for finding a home: using specialized tools and local knowledge40:54 - The best and worst parts of Belize: climate, cost, and lifestyle differences44:43 - Final thoughts: embracing change, managing expectations, and thriving abroad Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #69 - The Hidden Challenges of Moving Abroad: Honeymoon Phase Always Ends with Simo D

  3. Aug 3

    #68 - 15 Years in Mexico: Why This American Won't Leave with Greg Gunter

    Discover what makes San Miguel de Allende one of the world’s most beloved expat destinations through Greg Gunther’s firsthand experience. From cultural adaptation to real estate insights, this episode charts a path for those considering a long-term move or investment in this vibrant Mexican town. In this episode: Greg’s journey from a US architect and developer to a full-time expat in MexicoHow San Miguel de Allende’s rich history preserves its architectural beauty and charmThe exponential growth of the expat community and the town’s transformation over 17 yearsPractical tips on integrating into local life, including language learning and social scenesThe affordability and cost of living advantages compared to the US and EuropeA deep dive into real estate opportunities, neighborhood gentrification, and finding the perfect homeNavigating healthcare in San Miguel de Allende: facilities, access, and qualityCultural nuances like the ‘mañana’ attitude and living the local lifestyleThe importance of research and choosing the right neighborhood for comfort and safetyHow digital tools and social networks simplify moving and settling in 🎙️ Guest: Greg Gunter An American architect-turned-real-estate broker who has lived in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for more than 15 years. He helps other foreigners and prospective buyers understand the city, its neighbourhoods, and what it takes to settle into life there successfully. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamprohomes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SanMiguelDreamProHomes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dreamprohomes/ Website: https://dreamprohomesluxury.com/ Email: greg@gregorygunter.com Phone: +1 877-878-4141 Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstorieshttps://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎 ✈️ Join Almost Local now and connect with a global community of like-minded people living abroad!

    #68 - 15 Years in Mexico: Why This American Won't Leave with Greg Gunter

  4. Jul 27

    #67 - Why Parenting Abroad Changes Everything with Anthi Patrikios

    In this episode, Anthi Patrikios shares her rich journey from childhood in Greece to living and working across multiple countries, ultimately pivoting to parent coaching and community building abroad in Uzbekistan. Her insights reveal how embracing mobility, cultural curiosity, and personal growth shape a fulfilling global life. Main Topics: The transformative power of freedom in early life and choicesNavigating cultural shocks and building social connections abroadThe evolution from international career to parent coaching and personal well-being 🎙️ Guest: Anthi Patrikios A parent coach and educator who has spent nearly three decades living abroad, building a life across Greece, the UK, the Philippines, Kenya, and Uzbekistan. Her perspective is shaped by international moves, deep empathy for families, and a strong belief in freedom, adaptability, and supporting children through change. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthipatrikios/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthi-patrikios/ Website: https://www.anthipatrikios.com/ 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!

    #67 - Why Parenting Abroad Changes Everything with Anthi Patrikios

  5. Jul 20

    #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/ 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!

    #66 - Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk

  6. Jul 13

    #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/ 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!

    #65 - The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow

  7. Jul 6

    #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 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!

    #64 - The Unexpected Emotional Crash of Moving Back Home with Annegret Bertsch

  8. Jun 29

    #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 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!

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