Expat Life
By Jan Hoffman The message emblazoned on a walkway window at the airport in Burlington, Vermont, is a startling departure from the usual tourism posters and welcome banners: “Addiction is not a choice. It’s a disease that can happen to anyone.” The statement, part of a public service campaign in a community assailed by drug...
By Caity Weaver I have good news and I have bad news. Actually, I have crazy news and I have bad news. Actually, all the news I have is bad, but some of it is also crazy. Before you become totally freaked out, all the news I’m describing here is about pennies; it’s nothing life...
By Stephen Vargha With a heated political season upon us, many U.S. citizens in Cuenca are concerned about their voter registration. Others want to register to have their voices heard on November 5. Then, there are those who are concerned about being eligible to vote this November. “I just wanted to make sure my registration...
By Monica Humphries Stepping inside TapOut Sports Zone Bar and Grill in Boquete, Panama, is like stepping inside suburban America. The menu features American staples like cheeseburgers, barbecue chicken sandwiches, and Philly cheesesteaks. Flat-screen TVs sit above the bar, airing the latest game. On Friday nights, you might catch a band performing hits like “Take...
By Jim Smith Stepping into Chula Birria, I was immediately enveloped in the vibrant energy of the place. The restaurant, which opened its doors in November 2021, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. As I entered, I was warmly greeted by Juan Arevalo, the manager, whose friendly demeanor and genuine smile...
By David Wallis Some call themselves “senior gypsies.” Others prefer “international nomad.” David Law, 74, a retired executive recruiter who has primarily slept in tents in several countries in the last two years, likes the ring of “American Bedouin.” They are American retirees who have downsized to the extreme, choosing a life of travel over...
By Jancee Dunn I recently visited my parents, and I was ransacking their kitchen for snacks when I noticed something: Their medications were in a cabinet near their oven. “Keeping your meds there isn’t ideal,” I told my dad. “You’re cooking all the time, and it’s hot.” “I’m sure it’s fine,” my father said. Then, he...
By Sarah Gillespie The wine, a marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec from Bodega Dos Hemisferios, sizzles on the palate: notes of black cherry, tobacco and pepper chronicle the 18 months of its maturation. I’m already woozy from the altitude and this threatens to knock me off my feet. Stephany Reeson cocks an eyebrow at...
By Stephen Vargha Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres said, “While every refugee’s story is different and their anguish personal, they all share a common thread of uncommon courage — the courage not only to survive, but to persevere and rebuild their shattered lives.” For Mariya Zrazhaeva, 42, her courage took her from Ukraine...
By Jeremiah Reardon, Photos by Andy Kim and Jeremiah Reardon On Tuesday evening at 8 P.M., August 13, I watched our hometown assemble in the streets to offer a well-deserved homage to its recent hero, Olympian Daniel Pintado. Young and old stood with me on the sidewalk to watch his parade on Avenida Remigio Crespo....
By Jim Smith When Expats move to or visit developing countries, they can significantly influence the local community in both positive and challenging ways. Although many Expats aim to contribute constructively and immerse themselves in their new environments, certain behaviors can unintentionally cause frustration among locals. This article explores the top five benefits and annoyances...
On the desktop of my computer is a picture of my son walking through the courtyard of a Cuenca apartment building. It was taken a week before his fifth birthday. Everything in the picture reminds me of our time in Cuenca — the plants, the architecture, the beautiful weather, the statue of Mary, and even...