Your Time To Travel

Karl Harris
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The podcast for Americans 50+ thinking about retiring abroad or slow traveling for months at a time. I'm Karl Harris, a retired police detective and military veteran. In July 2024 I sold almost everything I owned and started slow traveling full-time with my dog Bennie. I'm based in Bangkok, Thailand. Every week: what it really costs, visas, healthcare, banking from overseas, the apps and cards I use, and the honest pros and cons. No hype. Free guide: yourtimetotravel.life/free Video episodes on YouTube: @YourTimeToTravel It's your time to travel.

  1. 21h ago

    The Apps I Use Almost Every Day Living Abroad (Retired in Thailand)

    What do you actually need on your phone before you retire abroad? I'm opening up my phone and walking you through every app, card and account I use almost daily as a full-time slow traveler in Bangkok: how I get cash with no ATM fees, pay rent in baht, scan-pay at street stalls, stay connected, get around, and turn everyday spending into business-class flights and airport lounges. CHAPTERS 0:00 Cold open 0:42 What you need on your phone 2:31 Part 1: Money on the ground 2:56 Charles Schwab 4:47 Wise 5:54 Moreta Pay 7:33 Currency converter 7:59 Part 2: Staying connected 8:11 eSIMs (Holafly + local) 10:17 VPN 11:31 WhatsApp and LINE 12:35 Part 3: Getting around 12:52 Google Maps + Apple Maps 14:01 Grab, Bolt and Uber 15:24 Part 4: Points, perks and lounges 15:49 Amex Platinum 17:08 Chase IHG 18:50 Priority Pass 21:22 The setup checklist 22:09 Free guide + what's next FREE GUIDE: The Honest Pros and Cons of Retiring Abroad After 50 https://yourtimetotravel.life/free Smart Travel Hacks for Stress-Free Adventures (e-guide) https://yourtimetotravel.life/hacks All my guides and links: https://yourtimetotravel.life/links Watch this episode on YouTube to see every app on screen: https://www.youtube.com/@YourTimeToTravel Cards and apps I mentioned (referral links): - Amex Platinum: https://americanexpress.com/en-us/referral/platinum-card?ref=KARLHI5TA&xl=cp10o6 - Chase IHG One Rewards Premier: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/210z/LH94T7C3H2 - Holafly eSIM: holafly.sjv.io/bOZOmM Disclosure: the Amex, Chase IHG and Holafly links are referral links. If you use them, I may earn points or a commission at no extra cost to you. I'm not a financial advisor, and nothing here is financial advice. Fees, prices and rules change, so check the details for your own situation. Next episode: how to prepare for a trip to Thailand before peak season.

    The Apps I Use Almost Every Day Living Abroad (Retired in Thailand)

  2. May 4

    Is It Safe for Black Americans to Travel the World? Our Honest Experience After 50

    Is it safe for Black Americans to travel the world?Which countries feel the most welcoming?And is the experience actually different outside the United States? In this episode of Your Time To Travel, we’re sharing our real, unfiltered experience slow traveling the world as a Black American couple after 50. After selling everything to pursue a life of full-time travel, we’ve lived in places like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and explored destinations across Africa and Southeast Asia—and what we’ve experienced might surprise you. We break down: What it really feels like to travel abroad as a Black AmericanWhere we felt the most welcomed (and why)The difference between curiosity vs. discriminationWhether racism is worse, better, or just different outside the U.S.Why more Black Americans are choosing to travel—and even leave the U.S.We also take a step back and talk about the origins of racial classifications, and why race isn’t experienced the same way around the world. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like—or if you’ve been thinking about traveling yourself—this episode is for you.

  3. Apr 27

    Where Americans Are Moving Right Now (Costs, Safety & Living on $1,900/Month)

    Are more Americans leaving the U.S.—or does it just feel that way? In this episode of Your Time To Travel, we break down the real data behind where Americans are relocating and why more people—especially over 50—are choosing to live abroad. We cover top destinations like Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Canada, and the United Kingdom—including: Real monthly cost of livingSafety comparisons vs the U.S.Where your Social Security stretches the furthestIf you’ve ever asked yourself: 👉 “Could I actually live overseas on my retirement income?” This episode gives you a clear, data-backed answer. 🌍 Start your journey today:👉 https://yourtimetotravel.life/pages/download-your-travel-checklist 🎙️ Follow the podcast for weekly insights on slow travel and living abroad.

    Where Americans Are Moving Right Now (Costs, Safety & Living on $1,900/Month)

  4. Apr 20

    Slow Travel After 50: Best Countries to Live Abroad Longer & Spend Less (180+ Day Visas)

    More Americans are seriously asking the question: “Can I live better outside the U.S.?” In this episode of Your Time To Travel, we break down the best countries where Americans can move quickly, stay longer, and actually enjoy a higher quality of life—without complicated visa processes. This isn’t backpacking or budget travel. This is about living comfortably as a middle-class couple, with: Safe neighborhoodsReliable healthcareStrong infrastructureAnd a lifestyle you can actually enjoyWe cover: 🌍 Countries that allow 180 days or MORE (including some that allow up to a full year) 🌎 The best 90-day visa countries where the world opens up if you’re willing to move 💰 Real monthly costs for a comfortable lifestyle—not survival 🏡 Where you can maintain or upgrade your American standard of living From familiar options like Mexico to underrated gems like Albania and Georgia, we break it all down so you can decide what works best for YOU. If you’ve been feeling the pressure of rising costs, stress, or just wondering if there’s a better way to live—this episode gives you real, actionable options. 🎯 Start your journey: Download our FREE travel checklist: 👉 https://yourtimetotravel.life/pages/download-your-travel-checklist 🌐 Explore more: 👉 https://yourtimetotravel.life

  5. Jan 27

    How AI Is Reshaping Travel Planning in 2026 (Smarter Trips, Less Stress)

    In 2026, travel planning has fundamentally changed — and AI is now shaping how trips are researched, planned, priced, and managed. In this episode of Your Time To Travel, we break down how AI is reshaping travel planning, how travelers are actually using AI tools today, where AI works, where it falls short, and the powerful AI infrastructure quietly running the global travel industry behind the scenes. We explore how consumer AI tools help travelers plan smarter — while explaining the enterprise AI systems used by airlines and booking platforms that most travelers never see but everyone is affected by. How AI travel planning works in 2026 The best ways travelers use AI for research, itineraries, and budgeting Where AI saves time — and where human judgment still matters The difference between consumer AI tools and travel infrastructure AI How airline pricing, seat availability, and rebooking decisions are actually made Why understanding AI makes you a smarter, less-stressed traveler 🎧 Listen or watch on Spotify 📺 Watch on YouTube 🌍 More travel resources: https://yourtimetotravel.life ChatGPT – https://chat.openai.com Perplexity AI – https://www.perplexity.ai Google Gemini – https://gemini.google.com Wanderlog – https://wanderlog.com TripIt – https://www.tripit.com Kayak – https://www.kayak.com Numbeo – https://www.numbeo.com Skyscanner – https://www.skyscanner.com Hopper – https://www.hopper.com Flighty – https://www.flighty.com Rome2Rio – https://www.rome2rio.com Google Maps – https://maps.google.com Airbnb – https://www.airbnb.com Booking.com – https://www.booking.com Tripadvisor – https://www.tripadvisor.com OpenAI – https://openai.com Amadeus – https://amadeus.com Sabre – https://www.sabre.com In this episode, you’ll learn:🔗 AI PLATFORMS & TRAVEL TOOLS DISCUSSED🧠 Consumer AI & Travel Planning Tools🗺️ Itinerary & Trip Organization💰 Budgeting & Price Prediction✈️ Optimization & Real-Time Travel Intelligence🏨 Booking Platforms (Require Human Judgment)🔮 Emerging AI Travel Infrastructure (Not Publicly Accessible)

    How AI Is Reshaping Travel Planning in 2026 (Smarter Trips, Less Stress)

  6. Jan 12

    Dubai vs Abu Dhabi After 50: Slow Travel, Retirement Costs, Visas & What It’s Really Like Living in the UAE

    Send us a text Can you really slow travel or retire comfortably in the UAE after 50—or is it all just luxury hype? In this episode of Your Time To Travel Podcast, we share our firsthand experience traveling through Dubai and Abu Dhabi, breaking down what daily life actually looks like for retirees and long-term travelers. We talk about: Using the Dubai Metro straight from the airportAffordable, high-quality Uber transportation in both citiesDining in the Burj Khalifa district while watching the light showExploring Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and a sunset boat cruiseBeachfront lunch at JBR and relaxing at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche BeachVisiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Presidential PalaceWorld-class airports, facial recognition immigration, and stress-free travelMost importantly, we break down the real monthly cost of living for retirees, including housing, healthcare, transportation, and food—plus the financial requirements for UAE retirement visas, Golden Visas, and long-stay residency options. If you’re over 50 and considering: Slow travel in the Middle EastRetiring abroad on a pension or fixed incomeLiving somewhere safe, modern, and incredibly efficientThis episode gives you a clear, honest look at whether the UAE truly makes sense. 🎧 Key Topics Covered: Dubai vs Abu Dhabi retirement scorecardMonthly retirement budget in the UAERetirement visa financial requirements (55+)Transportation without owning a carWhich city fits long-term living best👉 Best takeaway: Start in Dubai, settle in Abu Dhabi. Support the show 🌍 Thank you for listening to "Your Time to Travel" podcast! 🌍 If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more travelers like you! ✈️ Stay connected and join the conversation: Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Check out our website for travel tips, stories, and more: yourtimetotravel.life 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode and be part of our slow travel journey!

    Dubai vs Abu Dhabi After 50: Slow Travel, Retirement Costs, Visas & What It’s Really Like Living in the UAE

  7. Jan 5

    Where Retirees Live Best in 2026: Global Rankings vs the United States

    Send us a text Where can retirees actually live safer, better, and more affordably than in the United States? In this episode of Your Time To Travel, we rank the top global retirement and slow travel destinations using real data — not hype. We compare each country directly to the U.S. across the factors that matter most to retirees and couples over 50. ⏱️ Episode Chapters Intro — 0:00 Safety (Global Peace Index) — 1:09 Holafly (Travel eSIM Sponsor) — 4:34 Cost of Living (Upper-Middle-Class Couple) — 9:15 Healthcare Quality — 14:49 Public Transportation & Ease of Travel — 20:18 Retirement Visas & Income Requirements — 27:20 Currency vs U.S. Dollar — 31:35 Your Time To Travel Scoreboard (Final Rankings) 🌍 How countries are ranked: • Global Peace Index (safety) • Cost of living for an upper-middle-class retired couple • Healthcare quality • Public transportation & ease of travel • Ease of obtaining long-term retirement visas • Currency advantage vs the U.S. dollar 🇺🇸 The United States is included in every category for direct comparison. This episode is for anyone thinking about: ✔️ Retiring abroad ✔️ Slow traveling after 50 ✔️ Stretching a pension or fixed income ✔️ Living well with less stress 📘 READY TO PREPARE FOR LIFE ABROAD? If you’re serious about retiring or traveling overseas, our step-by-step e-guide walks you through how to prepare, what to plan for, and how to avoid costly mistakes before you go. 👉 Get the guide here: 🔗 https://yourtimetotravel.life/products/adventure-wanderlust-wealth-the-50-guide-to-selling-it-all-and-retiring-abroad 🎙️ We break down why some countries outperform the U.S. for retirees — and which destinations offer the best overall balance of safety, comfort, healthcare, and freedom. 👉 Learn more, watch our journey, and access resources at https://YourTimeToTravel.life Support the show 🌍 Thank you for listening to "Your Time to Travel" podcast! 🌍 If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more travelers like you! ✈️ Stay connected and join the conversation: Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Check out our website for travel tips, stories, and more: yourtimetotravel.life 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode and be part of our slow travel journey!

    Where Retirees Live Best in 2026: Global Rankings vs the United States

  8. 12/16/2025

    Slow Travel Over 50 — How to Turn a Pension into a Global Lifestyle

    Send us a text Traveling soon? Stay connected abroad with a Holafly eSIM — use code YOURTIMETOTRAVEL for a discount: https://holafly.sjv.io/bOZOmM What if your pension could buy you freedom instead of routine? In this episode, we share how we sold everything, grabbed two suitcases and our dog Bennie, and turned a pension into a slow-travel lifestyle across the world. If you're retired, a veteran, or 50+ and dreaming of living abroad, this episode gives you the roadmap. 🌍 What You’ll Learn • The Slow Travel Mindset — Why living 30–90+ days in one place reduces stress, cuts costs, and deepens your experience. • Turning a Pension Into Freedom — How choosing the right countries (Thailand, Portugal, Mexico City) helps your income go further. • Picking Long-Stay Destinations — Visas, healthcare, safety, internet, pet-friendly options, and lifestyle rhythm. • Traveling With a Pet — How Bennie travels internationally and what you need to know about microchips, vaccines, and airline rules. • Preparing for the Leap — Downsizing, logistics, budgeting, mental shifts, and practical slow-travel planning. 🎯 Your Next Step If we can do it in our 50s with a dog, you can too. Start with our step-by-step e-guide: 📘 Adventure, Wanderlust & Wealth: The 50+ Guide to Selling It All and Retiring Abroad 👉 https://yourtimetotravel.life/products/adventure-wanderlust-wealth-the-50-guide-to-selling-it-all-and-retiring-abroad 🔗 Links Mentioned 🌐 More episodes & blogs: YourTimeToTravel.life ▶️ Watch on YouTube Support the show 🌍 Thank you for listening to "Your Time to Travel" podcast! 🌍 If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more travelers like you! ✈️ Stay connected and join the conversation: Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Check out our website for travel tips, stories, and more: yourtimetotravel.life 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode and be part of our slow travel journey!

    Slow Travel Over 50 — How to Turn a Pension into a Global Lifestyle
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About

The podcast for Americans 50+ thinking about retiring abroad or slow traveling for months at a time. I'm Karl Harris, a retired police detective and military veteran. In July 2024 I sold almost everything I owned and started slow traveling full-time with my dog Bennie. I'm based in Bangkok, Thailand. Every week: what it really costs, visas, healthcare, banking from overseas, the apps and cards I use, and the honest pros and cons. No hype. Free guide: yourtimetotravel.life/free Video episodes on YouTube: @YourTimeToTravel It's your time to travel.

Information

  • Creator
    Karl Harris
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Karl Harris
  • Show Website
    Your Time To Travel