Living Like a Local: The Future of Travel for Retirees

In this episode of the Rock Your Retirement podcast, Kathe Kline and Barb Mock welcome Andrew Motiwala, founder of The Good Life Abroad, for an insightful conversation about reimagining overseas travel in retirement. Andrew shares his journey from discovering a love for travel during his college study-abroad program and Peace Corps service to creating unique experiences for retirees who seek deeper cultural immersion beyond traditional tours and cruises.Andrew explains how The Good Life Abroad was developed in response to feedback from travelers wanting more meaningful, less hectic travel experiences in retirement. Unlike short-term stays through Airbnb or VRBO, which can be hit-or-miss and rarely offer community, Andrew’s program focuses on one-month minimum stays in vetted apartments, ensuring comfort and accessibility. Each cohort-based experience connects like-minded individuals in the same neighborhood, with activities like happy hours, cooking classes, and historical walking tours organized by a local community manager. These managers not only facilitate group bonding but also provide personalized support, from restaurant recommendations to travel logistics and even help during local strikes or other disruptions.The episode dives into the importance of community and flexibility while living abroad as a retiree. Andrew highlights how participants form deep friendships through shared interests, and the program adapts to their unique goals—be it art, language learning, or simply soaking in local life at their own pace. There’s an emphasis on serendipity and the magic that comes from having the freedom to explore, rather than being confined to a tight itinerary.For those with budget constraints or who prefer DIY travel, Andrew offers practical advice on how to find affordable destinations, build community, and access meaningful cultural experiences through local organizations, Facebook groups, and language institutes. The conversation also touches on the growing popularity of this approach—described as “study abroad for retirees”—and how solos, including many widows, can feel safe and welcomed in such programs. The episode wraps up with ways to connect with The Good Life Abroad gives encouragement for listeners to pursue their dream of long-term international living, whether independently or with support from a curated program.This episode is sponsored by CertifiedMedicareAgents.com