Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories

Marc Alcobé Talló
  • 4.6 (7)
  • 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. Almost Local #61 | Living in the Balkans: How a European Move Transformed My Identity and Life Perspective

    2d ago

    Almost Local #61 | Living in the Balkans: How a European Move Transformed My Identity and Life Perspective

    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!

    38 min
  2. Almost Local #60 | The Reality of Being a Foreigner in Dubai: Life after a football career

    Jun 8

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

    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!

    43 min
  3. Almost Local #59 | The Resilience of Living Abroad: Building Home Within When Everything Changes

    Jun 1

    Almost Local #59 | The Resilience of Living Abroad: Building Home Within When Everything Changes

    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!

    44 min
  4. Almost Local #58 | Always Hiking, Never Home: What That Actually Feels Like

    May 25

    Almost Local #58 | Always Hiking, Never Home: What That Actually Feels Like

    In this episode, Belinda shares her inspiring journey from corporate life and extensive travel to embracing the outdoor life in Scotland. Discover how hiking and slow travel have transformed her perspective and enriched her life, offering practical insights for anyone looking to explore beyond conventional tourism. Belinda’s story exemplifies how embracing outdoor adventures and thoughtful travel can invigorate retirement and reshape one’s sense of community and purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or contemplating your first long-distance trail, her insights invite you to see travel and life through a broader, more enriching lens. 🎙️ Guest: Belinda Coker An adventurous spirit who transitioned from a corporate career to a life of exploration, embracing hiking and slow travel across the globe. With roots in New Zealand and Australia, she now resides in Scotland, sharing her experiences and insights through her hiking guides and house-sitting projects. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soultreader Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesoultreader Soul Trader: https://soultreader.com/ Hike It Right Hide: https://soultreader.com/hike-it-right/ House Sitting Collective: https://housesittingcollective.com/ 🏷️ Discount code Get a 10% off on all the courses on the House Sitting Collective (https://housesittingcollective.com/) with the code "hstravel" 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!

    49 min
  5. Almost Local #57 | From France to Canada: A Journey of Language and Culture

    May 18

    Almost Local #57 | From France to Canada: A Journey of Language and Culture

    Unlock the secrets of embracing life abroad and learn how mastering language and culture can transform your experience — all from someone who did it firsthand. Cathy shares her incredible journey moving from France to Canada, launching a French bakery in Vancouver, and shifting to a successful language coaching career — showing that with the right mindset and approach, you can turn challenges into opportunities. Discover how the Canadian approach to immigration and entrepreneurship can be surprisingly accessible — lower barriers, fewer formal requirements, and faster paths to success compared to France. Cathy breaks down her unique experience building a bakery with just a startup mindset, plus the cultural nuances between French and Quebecois French that most outsiders never see. If you're considering moving abroad or leaning into multilingualism, her insights on navigating local customs, learning new languages, and making meaningful connections will inspire your next step. You'll learn the key differences between city life in Vancouver versus Montreal, including cost of living, social customs, and everyday routines — essential intel whether you're planning your move or just curious about life in Canada. Cathy also dives deep into her neural language coaching method, revealing how understanding your brain’s language learning processes can accelerate fluency and boost confidence — crucial for anyone struggling with language anxiety or looking to elevate their skills beyond basic conversation. Most importantly, this episode highlights how taking risks, embracing failure, and staying curious can open doors you never imagined. Whether you’re dreaming of living abroad, switching careers, or simply want to deepen your multilingual journey, Cathy’s story proves that the best experiences often come from stepping outside your comfort zone. 🎙️ Guest: Cathy Introligator Cathy is a passionate language coach from Montreal with extensive expat experience in Canada, known for her innovative neural language coaching approach and her inspiring journey from bakery owner to language educator. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://instagram.com/cathy.intro YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cathy-Intro LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-introligator/ Website: https://mypolyglotlife.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!

    40 min
  6. Almost Local #56 | From Communist Poland to Detroit: How Being an Outsider Became My Superpower

    May 11

    Almost Local #56 | From Communist Poland to Detroit: How Being an Outsider Became My Superpower

    Peter Kolat, known as Polish Peter, left communist Poland at 14 and landed in Detroit — expecting palm trees and sports cars from the movies, but finding identical brick houses and a language he couldn't speak. What followed was a decades-long journey from confused immigrant teenager to "human architect" — a coach who now helps others rebuild their identity and find their authentic selves. In this episode of Almost Local, Peter shares: - Growing up in a 14x14 room with a shared public restroom in Poland - Why he tried to erase his Polish accent — and how he turned it into his superpower - The "optimistic depression" that transformed his entire career - 5 limiting beliefs every immigrant needs to break - How to use the "outsider advantage" to build the life you actually want 🎙️ Guest: Peter Kolat Peter is a Transformational Culture Coach, author of "Authentic Self-Rebirth," and a speaker who helps immigrants and entrepreneurs rebuild from the inside out. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticselfrebirth/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HiddenMasteryMindshifts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterkolat LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterkolat/ Website: https://polishpeter.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!

    45 min

  7. Trailer

    Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories (Trailer)

    People think living abroad is about places—but it isn’t. It’s about what you leave behind: a routine, a language, even a version of yourself.  Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories explores the real life abroad—not the highlights, but the everyday moments in between: the excitement, the frustration, and that strange feeling of belonging… while not quite belonging.  Through honest conversations, we dive into what it really means to build a life far from where you started.  New guest episodes every Monday. Subscribe so you don’t miss a story. Send us a message! 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!

    1 min
  8. Almost Local #55 | Winging It: From Broke Musician to 10 Years Living Abroad

    May 4

    Almost Local #55 | Winging It: From Broke Musician to 10 Years Living Abroad

    What happens when you move abroad with absolutely zero plan? In this episode of Almost Local, I sit down with James Hammond (host of the Winginit Travel Podcast) to talk about his 10-year journey of long term travel, surviving on working holiday visas, and the unfiltered reality of expat life. From running out of money and finding work via payphones before smartphones existed, to getting "stuck" in Canada during COVID and navigating Vancouver's insane cost of living, James shares the highs and lows of living abroad. We dive deep into Canadian bureaucracy, what it's really like to work 9-to-5 abroad, and why, even after getting his Canadian citizenship, he's planning to move back to the UK. If you are considering moving abroad or just love raw, honest digital nomad podcasts, this episode is for you! We break down the core challenges and invaluable insights of living unconventional: How to navigate the complexities of visas, bureaucracy, and cost of living in countries like Canada, Australia, and the UKWhy sometimes winging it can lead to the best opportunities, and when to build for stabilityPractical advice for anyone dreaming of long-term travel, global work, or relocating without a fixed plan 🎙️ Guest: James Hammond James Hammond is a globally-minded travel podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur. His work focuses on living authentically abroad while monetizing the journey—a real-world blueprint for turning wanderlust into a thriving lifestyle. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wingingittravelpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@roamingwithhammo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jameshammondtravel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshammondtravel/ Website: https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.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.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!

    46 min
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Trailer

4.6
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

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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