Inquisitive Society

Hey there, fellow wanderer here! I’ve been on the road for quite a while now, and while I love the nomadic lifestyle, I’ve started feeling a bit weary of not having a place to call home. I’ve tried slowing down my pace, spending around three months in each destination or country, which has helped, but I still miss the comfort of having a home to return to every now and then. So, I’ve been toying with the idea of buying a couple of properties in different countries to create my own version of stability while still feeding my wanderlust.

I can’t see myself settling down in just one place permanently, but I’m thinking that owning properties in multiple locations could give me the best of both worlds – a sense of security and familiarity, along with the freedom to explore and experience new cultures that we nomads cherish. Of course, I want to be financially savvy about this decision. I don’t want to make a bad investment, but at the same time, I value the lifestyle aspect more than just crunching numbers.

I know that some people say it’s better to live for lifestyle and invest for returns, but for me, it’s not just about the money. It’s about finding a balance between having a home and the freedom to roam. So, I’m reaching out to fellow nomads who have taken the plunge and bought property for lifestyle purposes. How did it turn out for you? Was it a dream come true, or did you encounter challenges?

On the flip side, if you decided against buying property and found other ways to cope with the feeling of not having a permanent home, I’d love to hear your insights and learnings. This decision is deeply personal, and I’m eager to gather different perspectives to help me navigate this next chapter of my nomadic journey.

So, if you’ve been in a similar situation or have valuable experiences to share, please chime in! I’m all ears for your thoughts, ideas, and inspiration as I continue my quest for a balance between stability and exploration. Thanks for being part of this conversation!

Hey there, so here’s the lowdown on my situation. I work for this tech company in the U.S., pulling in around 270k Aussie dollars as my base salary, plus an extra 140k or so in stock from a pre-IPO company. Yeah, the company’s pretty established, and I reckon they’ll go public in the next decade or so. Now, I’m eyeing a move to Thailand using the DTV visa – I’m actually already there, but my job’s technically with an Australian outfit called deel.com.

My plan is to have my pay go into a bank account in Singapore, Georgia, or maybe the UAE, and then shuffle over my living expenses to Thailand. I figure I’ll be spending around 50k to 60k a year and I’ll make sure to pay my dues in taxes to Thailand. Sure, I could go for the elite visa option, but the DTV route seems more budget-friendly.

Australia’s off my radar for settling down. Housing’s just too darn pricey, and the career scene for software engineers isn’t all that. I’m looking to work remotely and pop back to Oz to crash with my folks every couple of months, clocking in about 4 months there annually. I’m cool with cutting down on that time if necessary, but I’d rather not.

Now, I’m scratching my head over how tricky it might be to ditch my Aussie residency for tax reasons in my unique situation. Are there any agencies out there that could take care of all this jumble for me? It’s a bit of a maze, and I’d rather have a rock-solid setup than get hit with a massive tax bill from the ATO years down the line. Oh, and just to be clear, I’m flying solo – no kids, no partner, and zilch in terms of property or assets in Australia, except for my super annuation.

So, that’s the scoop on my game plan. If anyone’s got tips or knows where I can get some expert help on navigating these choppy waters, I’m all ears. It’s a bit of a puzzle, but I’m determined to crack it without any surprises down the road.

Hey there, I’m a 26-year-old female who absolutely loves going on solo trips. In the past three years, I’ve embarked on about five solo adventures, and let me tell you, it’s been an absolute game-changer for me. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve truly felt comfortable being on my own, and I have to say, I really relish my solo time.

One of the things I adore about solo travel is the freedom it offers. When I’m on a trip by myself, I get to do things exactly as I please. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems or simply sitting in a cafe people-watching, I get to call all the shots. I find that being alone allows me to fully immerse myself in the surroundings and appreciate the beauty of every moment.

Another aspect of solo travel that I enjoy is the opportunity to meet new people, particularly in hostels. Despite being labeled as shy and reserved, I surprisingly find it easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers. It’s refreshing to interact with like-minded individuals who share a passion for exploration and adventure.

Recently, I went on a vacation with my boyfriend, and it was fantastic. However, I had already planned a solo trip for November, way before we met. Initially, I was thinking of heading to Thailand, but now I’m considering exploring Patagonia in Argentina/Chile. While my boyfriend has the flexibility to join me on this trip due to his ample vacation time and love for travel, he seems puzzled by my desire to travel solo.

He supports my decision to go alone, but he doesn’t quite grasp the appeal. He seems to think that I’m chasing thrills or seeking out new connections. I can’t help but question whether my desire for solo travel is selfish or unreasonable. To add to the mix, most people we know back in Canada share his sentiments and fail to comprehend why I would choose to venture out on my own.

So, here I am, torn between my passion for solo travel and the expectations of others. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Oh, and just to give you a heads up, this solo trip is going to be a 12-day adventure.

Hey there, fellow American traveler! So, I’ve got this credit card that hooks me up with some solid rental car insurance, which is awesome because who wants to shell out extra cash for insurance, am I right? But here’s the kicker – seems like in Europe, rental car companies play by different rules. They don’t give you the option to decline their Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) like they do back home. Nope, it’s all bundled up in their “basic package” that you’re forced to take. And trust me, it’s not a sweet deal. You’re looking at a hefty deductible (over 2000 euro) and they want you to drop a deposit ranging from 1000 to 2000 euro. Talk about a buzzkill.

Of course, they don’t stop there. Oh no, they’ll try to upsell you on additional insurance, which costs an arm and a leg, sometimes even more than what you’re paying for the rental itself. So here I am, standing at the rental counter with a bunch of questions swirling in my head. First up, if I say no to their pricey add-on insurance, will that CDW included in their “basic package” mess with the coverage my credit card offers?

And here’s the real head-scratcher – can I even opt out of that mandatory CDW in their “basic package”? If not, how do I make sure that it doesn’t throw a wrench into the insurance from my credit card? And what if, worst-case scenario, that mandatory CDW ends up canceling out the coverage from my credit card and there’s absolutely no way around it? Are there any rental car companies in Europe that don’t stick you with this mandatory CDW nonsense? And hey, what about in Southeast Asia?

I’m all ears for any tips or tricks you might have up your sleeve to navigate this rental car insurance maze. Thanks a bunch for any help you can throw my way.

Alright, so listen up, folks. I’m a 26-year-old gal, and because of my health situation, I might never get the chance to snag a driver’s license. Yeah, it’s a bummer. You know what that means? No impromptu road trips in a rented car for me. And let me tell you, car rentals aren’t exactly easy on the wallet, but hey, at least you can do it if you want to. I’m sitting here feeling like there’s a whole bunch of the world out there that I’m missing out on experiencing the way I’d like to. Can’t just hop in a car and drive to those quaint little towns or villages unless there’s a bus involved. Forget about renting a cozy cabin up in the mountains for a solo getaway. Nope, can’t go anywhere without relying on someone else, and let me tell you, it’s frustrating as heck.

I get it, we’re all thankful for the ability to explore the world on our terms, but this is a little reminder to appreciate that freedom even more. Sorry for the downer spiel, but sometimes you just gotta vent, you know? I’m cool with public transportation, been to cities where you can walk everywhere, but it’s the lack of independence that really gets to me. Nothing’s on my own terms, and that’s a tough pill to swallow.

So, next time you’re cruising down the highway, wind in your hair, blasting your favorite tunes, take a moment to appreciate that freedom. Cherish the fact that you can just hop in a car and go wherever the road takes you. It’s a privilege that not everyone has, and it’s one that shouldn’t be taken for granted. And hey, if you’re planning a trip, maybe consider those of us who aren’t as fortunate in the driving department. Offer a ride, include us in your plans, because every little gesture of inclusivity means the world to someone like me.

In the end, it’s all about perspective, right? So, while I may not be able to hit the open road whenever I please, I can still find joy in the journey, even if it’s on a bus or with a friend behind the wheel. Life’s an adventure, and sometimes the unexpected detours end up being the most memorable parts of the trip. So, here’s to embracing the twists and turns, appreciating the ride, and never losing sight of the beauty in the

Hey, so I’m new to Reddit and seeking some advice for my upcoming trip through Africa. I’m a 19-year-old guy with a Ford Ranger diesel, and I’m pumped to capture some epic photos and videos with my camera and drone across the continent. Now, I know Africa can be a bit sketchy in some places, like the borders of Mauritania and Western Sahara and Nigeria and Cameroon. So, I’m planning to stick to the coastline until Cameroon, where it’s supposedly safer to venture inland.

Here’s what I’m thinking of packing: two spare tires, tire repair gear, diesel jerricans, solar battery to power my gadgets and even an electric stove, planks and shovel for sand mishaps, GPS beacon, and extra copies of all my important documents. Plus, I’ll have two weeks’ worth of dried food, compass, maps, spare car parts, tools, hiking backpack, camping gear, water purification tablets, medical kit, and more. Phew, that’s a lot, but safety first, right?

I’ll kick off my journey from Nice, France, and wrap it up in Cape Town, possibly detouring inland once I hit Angola. And before I hit the road, I’ll get some car repair and off-road training, slap on a bull bar, and brush up on navigation skills. As for cash, I’ve got a decent starting budget and plan to freelance online along the way.

Any tips on making this trip super safe would be awesome, although I’m dead set on doing it all by car, except for the ferry to Morocco. I’ve got some basic camping and repair skills under my belt, but I’m open to any advice on how to make this adventure a success. Oh, and I’m also curious about snagging some quick cash through odd jobs in different countries to fund my journey and meet new folks.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, folks! Feel free to drop any suggestions or tips my way. Cheers!

Hey guys, I need some advice. Next month, I’m flying to Japan with Finnair. I’ve got a short layover in Helsinki before embarking on the long 13-hour journey to Japan. Unfortunately, there are no business upgrades available for the long flight, which is a bummer because I was hoping for some extra comfort to help with my flying jitters. But hey, what can you do when it’s not available, right?

However, there is an option to upgrade for the 2.5-hour flight to Helsinki for 109€. The upgrade includes priority handling on the ground and access to the lounge. Now, here’s the thing – is it worth shelling out the extra cash for these ground benefits? I mean, getting to use the lounge twice, once at the starting airport and then in Helsinki, is already valued at around 70€. Add in the priority handling to zip through queues faster… it’s definitely tempting.

So, what do you guys think? Is it worth it to go for the 109€ upgrade primarily for the perks on the ground? And here’s another thing on my mind – will I really have access to both lounges? I’ve heard a rumor that as long as you have one business flight during your journey, you can access lounges at all the airports. But I’m not sure if that’s actually the case. Can anyone confirm this for me?

Thanks a bunch in advance for your insights!

Hey there, fellow frugal traveler! Let’s talk about snagging those sweet, cheap airline tickets in the US. You know the ones I’m talking about – the ones that save you a couple hundred bucks but often come with the not-so-glamorous back-of-the-line boarding and the dreaded gate check bag requests.

I’m often tempted by these bargain tickets because, let’s be real, who doesn’t love saving some cash? But here’s the catch – when it comes to those larger carry-on bags in the 30L+ range, you might be playing a risky game of overhead bin roulette. Sure, your personal items fit snugly under the seat, no problem. But for those longer trips where you need a bit more space, it’s a whole different story.

So, what’s a savvy traveler to do in this predicament? Do we gamble and hope our bag flies under the radar, squeezing into the overhead compartment undetected? Or do we bite the bullet and fork over extra cash for priority boarding to secure that precious overhead bin space? And let’s not forget the option of checking our bag and saying a little prayer that it arrives at our destination unscathed.

As a fellow one-bagger, I’ve pondered these questions myself. It’s a tough call, weighing the pros and cons of each option. Do we sacrifice convenience for savings, or do we splurge for a smoother travel experience?

I’d love to hear from my fellow travelers – how do you navigate this dilemma? Have you found a clever workaround or do you have a go-to strategy for ensuring your bag makes it on board hassle-free? Share your tips and tricks with the rest of us budget-conscious adventurers!

In the end, whether we opt for the wallet-friendly ticket or decide to upgrade for a more seamless journey, one thing’s for sure – the thrill of exploring new destinations and the joy of travel always make the adventure worthwhile. So, here’s to embracing the travel trade-offs and making the most of every journey, no matter which boarding group we find ourselves in!

Hey there, I’m in the EU, holding both a US passport and an EU passport. When I book car rentals on local (EU) websites, I’ve noticed that the prices are way cheaper and often come with full insurance coverage included. Some folks might doubt this, thinking there could be hidden fees or taxes, but trust me, I’ve got plenty of experience in this department.

Once, with Hertz, they initially said the rate wasn’t for Americans, but when I explained that I live abroad, they were cool with it. Another time, with Avis, I only had to show my foreign passport, not my foreign driver’s license. However, I’ve become a bit cautious lately because it seems like some companies are becoming stricter. For example, Hertz now explicitly states that their rates are not for US citizens or those holding US licenses.

I’m curious if anyone out there has recent experiences with this issue and can recommend a car rental provider or even a third-party booking site. I usually prefer booking directly, but I’ve heard great things about some third-party sites like Sunnycars.

I’m also considering playing it safe by booking a reservation with free or low-cost cancellation options, just in case there are any hiccups when picking up the car. Maybe I’ll even schedule the pickup for an hour later, that way I can cancel if needed before the actual pickup time. Any advice or suggestions would be awesome. Thanks in advance!

By the way, right now, I’ve got a reservation with Dollar because their booking terms don’t specifically mention restrictions on using my US license. And I also noticed that Sunny Cars has a clause allowing rentals for folks residing abroad but holding US licenses.

Hey there, I’m living the life of a digital nomad after an early retirement from corporate IT/telecom. I’ve ditched all my stuff and have been floating around since I retired. It’s a bit unpredictable – I often don’t know where I’ll be in a few weeks. Technically, I’m based in the US (currently using a virtual address in Miami just for doctor visits) but I don’t actually live there. As Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes put it, “home is wherever there is you.”

I like to think of myself as a ‘last century American’ or maybe just an Earthling or MilkyWayaan. I’m not really feeling the vibe of the craziness happening on both sides of the fence these days. Over the past year, I’ve traveled through Japan, then hit up London, Prague, Bratislava, and Budapest. Right now, I’m hanging out in Australia and New Zealand. But come late October, I need to head back to Miami for some doctor appointments. After that, who knows where I’ll end up next?

In my travel history, I’ve checked out places like Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, England, Chile, Peru, Belize, Guatemala, and a good chunk of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. For my future destinations, I’m eyeing places like Costa Rica, Vietnam, Singapore, Buenos Aires, and the Greek Islands. I’m all about soaking up the sun, so any suggestions for places where the daytime highs are over 50°F and the nights don’t dip below freezing are welcome.

Life as a digital nomad is all about embracing the unknown and going with the flow. It’s about freedom, exploration, and connecting with different cultures and people around the world. So, if you’ve got any tips on where I should head next or if you’re out there living a similar lifestyle, hit me up. Let’s swap stories and maybe even cross paths somewhere along the way. Cheers to the adventure!