All Articles
Freedom in Simplicity: Why We Don't Regret Getting Rid of Everything to Travel
Afraid of letting go and embracing a life of travel? We were too. Leaving behind our possessions felt daunting, but it opened the door to incredible adventures and boundless freedom. Our journey has shown us that life is richer when experiences take precedence over things. Discover how letting go helped us truly live and why this leap may be the key to overcoming your own fears and finding fulfillment.
Peace of Mind Abroad: Choosing the Right Health Insurance as Retired Travelers
As full-time retired travelers, navigating health insurance can feel daunting—what do you need to know to stay protected on your adventures? One of the most common questions we receive is about how to choose the right policy. Good coverage and affordability were our top priorities when selecting health insurance for our travels.
Using eSIMs for International Travel
Staying connected while traveling internationally doesn’t have to be a hassle, thanks to eSIM technology. What is an eSIM and how do you use one? We answer that question and give our recommendations.
The Heavy Truth About Big Suitcases
Minimalist packing is all the rage, but is it just a trend or is there validity worth discussing? Why is it such a taboo subject to talk about bringing a 50-pound suitcase for your two-week vacation? Isn’t it supposed to be a good thing to be prepared for contingencies? We discuss the weighty issue of luggage size.
Don't Forget: Must-Do Checks Before Leaving Your Hotel or Airbnb
There’s a sinking feeling you get when your hotel or Airbnb door clicks behind you for the last time and you wonder if there’s anything you forgot. And it’s SO annoying when you get a call or an email from them to let you know that indeed you left something behind. We put together this checklist so we can avoid that unnecessary anxiety and instead move towards our next destination more confidently.
Why the Name, “Finding Gina Marie”?
"Finding Gina Marie" began as my quest to meet my birth mother, a journey that transformed our lives. We reimagined our future, embracing full-time travel and authentic living. Our story is about reclaiming life’s priorities and finding freedom in unexpected places.
Aunt Kathleen’s Ricotta Gnocchi
Imagine yourself eating fluffy clouds of pasta that practically melt in your mouth. Not only are they full of flavor, but these pillows are packed with memories and history. That's what it felt like making and eating my Aunt Kathleen's ricotta gnocchi, which happens to be my nonna's recipe as well. Learning how to make these over a Zoom call in 2020 was one of the highlights of my year, especially after finding my Italian birth family when I was 55 years old.
18 Expert Tips to Conquer Jet Lag
It may seem inevitable, but it isn’t. It is possible to avoid the common symptoms of jet lag: fatigue, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and general feelings of malaise as your body adjusts to the new time zone. We give you our best tips so you can function at your best as soon as possible after stepping off a plane.
How to Stay Connected to Your Mail While Traveling the World
We made the decision to travel the world, but one of the many things that concerned us was how to deal with physical mail. There are serious consequences for not responding to certain mail in a timely manner. We found a service that's worked seamlessly for us for nearly two years. Here's how it can help you, too.
Sending Mailed Cards While Traveling…With a Twist
When important life events happens and you’re on the road, nothing says you care as much as a mailed card. A text can work, but it’s not nearly the same. I’ve been using a new app that allows you to handwrite a greeting and the company will stamp and mail it.
Voting While Living Abroad (As a US Citizen)
Are you a US citizen embarking on full-time travel and wondering whether you still are eligible to vote? Are you concerned about how to vote when you don’t have a US residence and won’t be in your precinct on Election Day? This comprehensive, step-by-step guide tells you everything you want to know. The good news is that if you’re a US citizen, you have a Constitutional right to vote.
Taco Salad in Madrid on a Budget
Restaurants in Madrid as full-time travelers give us sticker shock! Tapas can be an affordable option, but they’re often too carb heavy, especially in summer. Add drinks and it starts to get expensive. The grocery stores and farmers’ markets have budget-friendly ingredients, so it made sense to do our own cooking. This taco salad cost only €7.27 for two people, including a side of tortilla chips!
How to Handle Expiring Credit Cards as a Full-Time Traveler
You’re on the road as a full-time traveler and you notice that your credit or debit card is nearing expiration. What do you do? Typically a bank or credit card company will send out a replacement card…
Champa and Khmer Ginger Cake (“Ginrong Laya”)
This traditional ginger cake is a celebratory dessert in parts of Vietnam and Cambodia. If you're looking for a way to mix history, culture, and food, this mildly sweet donut-like dessert is a perfect fit.
Elephant Encounters and Tips for Finding Ethical Places to Visit
Three adult elephants and a baby playing in the mud transfixed us. The guide here at Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand, was in no hurry to move us along, so we watched this adorable interaction for a while.
Thailand Visa Extension Process
Extending your tourist visa in Thailand is supposed to be easy. But there's conflicting information everywhere. We walk you through every step of the process, from the forms you need to complete to what to expect when you arrive at an immigration office. We have sample forms to guide you in filling out all the paperwork to make it simple and straightforward.
A Kindness in Chiang Mai
Here in Nimman, the hipster area of Chiang Mai, there’s a huge coffee culture and some of the finest latte art we’ve ever seen. We thought finding a welcoming coffee shop would be straightforward and simple.
Overcoming Homesickness, Overwhelm, and Travel Challenges: Life as a Full-time Traveler
As full-time travelers, we look forward to eating exotic foods and checking out famous UNESCO sites, but we know that with those cool experiences come the inevitabilities of homesickness, overwhelm, and various travel challenges. We’ve crafted strategies to help us swiftly navigate through these tough spots…
Unraveling the Mystery of a Lost Day in Chiang Mai
Between doctor appointments and essential shopping—Kevin finally agreed to buy sandals—and a mix of work and exploration, Tuesday seemed to vanish unexpectedly. Join us as we unravel the mystery of our lost day in Chiang Mai, reflecting on the enriching yet elusive nature of our time spent traveling full-time, and discovering the simple joys and challenges of retirement abroad.
Favorite Restaurants In Cambodia
We share our favorite dishes from our month in Siem Reap, Cambodia. They’re a mix of Khmer, international, and a blend, which suits the culture of this tourist-friendly city. We hope you enjoy eating your way through it as much as we did!