Travels With Jim and Rita

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What happens when a young couple swaps their wedding vows for an epic global adventure? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Seth and Sarah, who did just that—and came back with more than souvenirs. This episode unveils their incredible journey from backpacking across continents to the unexpected joy of parenthood, all while navigating the challenges of a world on lockdown. Discover how they resumed their travels with baby Millie in tow, from traversing Canada to soaking up the sun in Jamaica, and the crucial lessons they learned along the way, like the art of packing light and finding supplies on the go.
We also dive into how rising mortgage rates pushed Seth and Sarah to make a life-changing decision: transitioning from occasional vacations to full-time globe-trotting. Learn their secret sauce for meticulous yet flexible travel planning, and get inspired by their memorable detours like the one to France. They also share the hurdles and rewards of maintaining a social media presence and generating income through their blog, atlasadventured.com, and personalized travel planning services. Plus, get a taste of their culinary escapades in Peru and hear about their future travel aspirations.
Ever wondered how to homeschool your child while exploring the world? Seth and Sarah share their unique approach to "world schooling" Millie, highlighting her impressive language skills and social interactions with kids from various cultures. They open up about initial skepticism from family and friends and the research and safety measures they take to ensure smooth travels. In this episode, we also explore the logistics of long-term travel in Europe, especially within the Schengen Zone's 90-day limit. From their strategic planning tips to reflections on how this lifestyle has inspired even their most travel-averse relatives, Seth and Sarah offer a compelling narrative that will make you rethink what's possible for family life.
Website: https://www.atlasadventured.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AtlasAdventured
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@AtlasAdventured
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AtlasAdventured

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What do cobblestone streets, ornate architecture, and a surprise health scare have in common? They're all part of our unpredictable adventure through Eastern Europe! Join us, Jim and Rita, as we recount our travels from Warsaw to Vilnius and Riga. Our journey took an unexpected turn with a health challenge in Riga, but it didn't stop us from first exploring the city's vibrant history and culture. From the charming old towns and picturesque landscapes to the fascinating stories behind landmarks like Riga's House of the Black Heads, this episode is packed with unforgettable moments and insights. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just dreaming of your next trip, our stories offer a blend of inspiration, humor, and a reminder that travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
As we wrap up our holiday travels, we're excited to share our progress on establishing our U.S. home base while balancing our health and travel aspirations. Stay connected with us through our blog, YouTube channel, and Instagram for more detailed accounts and visuals of our adventures. Plus, we've got our books and audiobooks available for those who want to dive even deeper into our travel tales. Engage with us, share your own travel stories, and let's explore the world together. Whether you're tuning in for the scenic landscapes, cultural insights, or just a bit of travel escapism, there's something here for everyone.
Youtube Cello Video: https://youtu.be/5F_mkdMHE6U
Vilnius Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-6/
Riga Photos: https://www.jimsantosbooks.com/page/photos-7/

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Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Miguel de Allende, Rita and I have found a rhythm to life that pulses with the local flair—and yes, even an encounter with Montezuma's revenge. But it's the stories that we're really excited to share with you, particularly those from Jennifer M. Sparks, who swapped her rocket scientist badge for a passport to nearly 50 countries. Join us as we explore Jennifer's transformative odyssey from childhood dreams to bulldozer rides in Africa, and how her wanderlust has been a constant compass guiding her incredible journeys.
The essence of slow travel doesn't just reshape landscapes; it remolds family life too. We unravel the tale of a couple whose overland quest through the Americas became a philosophy, birthing a book to guide the travel-hungry souls among us. Their transition from nomadic bliss to parenthood didn't put the brakes on their travels; it fueled adventures through Mexico with their son, reinforcing the bond with locals in places where family is paramount. And if you've ever wondered how wandering the world with little ones in tow might look, we're dishing up some hearty food for thought.
Now, let's get practical. The RV life can be as freeing as the open road, but do you rent or do you buy? We've been there, weighed the costs, and have tales to share about the liberating life of camper van travel. Jennifer weighs in with her expertise, straight from the pages of her book "Slow Travel – Escape the Grind and Explore the World," and together we muse on giving our children not just roots but also wings. So hop in, buckle up, and let's embark on a journey of discovery that just might inspire your next great adventure.

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Ever felt like a "gringo" in a foreign land, navigating cultural nuances and the occasional price gouging? We take you on a thrilling ride through the vibrant streets of Ecuador, sharing personal tales of what it truly means to "get gringoed" and why these experiences are often the exception rather than the rule. Join us as we explore how mutual respect and a splash of humor can transform everyday interactions into genuine connections, even when language barriers seem insurmountable.
In our storytelling of settling into Ecuador, we recount our heartwarming journey with Javier, a local contractor who became more than just a business associate. Witness firsthand how politeness and curiosity paved the way for friendships that transcend cultural divides. We also highlight the flipside, where a fellow expat's lack of cultural awareness resulted in missed opportunities for meaningful connections. From understanding local taxi fares to savoring the unexpected delights of "Quaker" juice, our adventures are filled with laughter and lessons about life abroad.
Finally, we delve into the intricacies of the expat community, where navigating real estate deals with fellow gringos sometimes proves trickier than with locals. Our tales of cultural exchanges, coupled with an invitation to expand your horizons through the Global Living Symposium, promise to inspire and inform those dreaming of life beyond borders. Whether you're planning your next move or simply curious about expat life, this episode offers a candid and insightful glimpse into the joys and challenges of living abroad.
Want more? Buy "Living Abroad: Challenging the Myths of Expat Life" - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XBH5187/
Register for the "How to Move Out of the US" online seminar, coming February 12,2025 - https://pro.internationalliving.com/m/2407727

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Ever wonder how the slow burn of travel can ignite a soulful transformation? Join us, Jim and Rita, as we recount the tales of San Miguel del Allende's sizzling May heat, where our quest for coolness led us to uncover the cultural gems of this historic Mexican town. We're spilling the beans on navigating local markets brimming with budget-friendly fresh produce and each surprising twist in the rich narrative the cobblestones of San Miguel whisper to those willing to listen.
This episode takes a turn down the path of personal evolution with our guest, Heidi Beierle, an intrepid spirit who pedaled her way from Wyoming to the diverse tapestry of American culture. Heidi's cross-country cycling odyssey is a beacon for anyone looking to unlock the depths of their courage and meet America's heartland with open arms. As she shares her stirring transformation, we ponder the indelible mark left by the open road and the unexpected kindness of strangers met along the way.
But it's not all pedal and breeze; we get real about the logistics of solo female bike touring. From safety to minimalism, we cover the essentials—like the warm embrace of the warmshowers.org community and the meticulous planning aided by the Adventure Cycling Association. Heidi's journey is a testament to the hospitable spirit of small-town America, revealing how a solo venture can challenge and change you, leaving behind a profound sense of connection and pride in the landscapes and people that become the milestones of your journey.
https://heidibeierle.com/

Support the show

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2292506/supporters/new
https://www.jimsantosbooks.com
http://jimsantos.net
https://www.instagram.com/jimsantosblog
https://www.youtube.com/@jimsantos508
[email protected]