Expat Files - 02.13.15

-This show goes out on a Friday the 13th and though Latin America is the land of superstition(on steroids), surprisingly enough the number “13” is NOT unlucky. South of the border it’s just a plain old digit.

-Why Gringos Fail: Today by popular demand, the entire remainder of the show is devoted to that red hot topic. Of course there are many varied reasons why things can go south for a gringo or gringa down here … forcing him/her to slink back to Cleveland, head bowed and tail between the legs. Failure to launch or thrive is on every fresh Expat's mind. And  aside from that oft heard and frankly wimpy “homesickness” excuse, i.e., homesick for the Krispy Kremes, homesick for the favorite bar, beer, home team, hangout or restaurant, homesick for the grandkids, or even the 50% tax bracket, homesick for the ever comforting police state (Stockholm Syndrome) or whatever- the fact is there are two general categories that a vast majority of gringo failures fall into. And nope, it’s not the obvious lack of a job or money either- that is... unless you live on the gringo tourist trail- since its cheap everywhere else and much more expensive to live up in the states.      

 -Do follow the link on the main page at www.ExpatWisdom.com to schedule a private phone, Skype or Mumble consult with me. If you want to discuss the details of living, working, playing, doing business and/or retiring in Latin America, we can talk about your situation one on one.