Patrick, thanks for the 4 month update. I've been watching your videos from the beginning. Your authentic honesty and respect for the people and culture is refreshing. I think that is driving up the subscribers. You don't hype things, that's a real plus. Keep up the good work.
It really touched me when you spoke about how kind the people of Albania have been to you and your wife. I must make a trip and visit the country. I am a single American man currently living in Germany and enjoy your videos.
Hi ! It really seems the more respect i give them , the better it is for me and april. I lived in Germany in the 80s. I know that was a long time ago but i loved it. Safe travels !
So glad you and April are enjoying your Albanian adventure, Patrick! As always, thanks for sharing it with us. (I'm only 3 years behind you.) Also, thank you for continuing to carry the flag for being a good ambassador for our country!
your videos help folks who are thinking of making a change in location. While change can be scary for some, it's best to open to any and all situations that can occur. We travel full-time and love discovering new places. I'm sure you've opened the eyes of many folks who will look at Albania seriously as an option. Perhaps your videos will help to establish a new group of folks, getting to know you in the new town.
I have always learned that it takes a minimum of 3 months to become acclimated to your area. You start memorizing streets and places and your area becomes your comfort zone, I hated to leave Italy after my 3-month stay but the Schengen rule wouldn't allow me to stay any longer. I am hoping to come to Albania very soon, hopefully by November if all goes well
Its nice to have a year . Exploring ways to stay longer. I just so worried giving out bad info. so i just tell peeps to call lawyers HERE. in country. But 1 year no visa? gold for u.s.a. citizens.
Hi Patrick, I have been watching some of the James Leithart videos. He is another American expat who lives in Pogradec. He seems like a really good guy and his UA-cam videos are just soo good and sensitively made. Hope you guys meet and sparkle a friendship
Yes weve emailed each other and he is very kind. Hope we bump into each others soon. Most likely after we move here. Were heading back to Tirana tomorrow. And yes his editing skills are awesome.
Love your videos, what you are doing is awesome. You are providing a great service, by giving people honest info and real life experiences that will help those that may have some doubts or worries about moving overseas. Wife and I will soon be Expats, as well. We are from Fort Worth and look forward to meeting you in a few months, if possible. I have been bragging about your channel to coworkers. Keep doing what you do, blessings to you and yours ALWAYS, amigo
Good morning, just changed my channel name to Two retired amigos travel. I noticed my name appeared in previous channel name. Just a simple update. Enjoy your travels ALWAYS! Enjoy the beautiful weekend.
Thank you for your honesty that it was scary. I am solo and will be making the move there. I am excited and worried all at the same time, but you never know if you don’t try. Plus, I love a good challenge!😂
Hey great videos. Just a question. Is there a beach area? I love the ocean and beach life. Thanks again for all the information and great aspect on life. Change is hard but is well rewarded if done right
I did find Pogradec to be very small and very quiet in the off season. One reason I like Sarande in the off season is there was still a lot to do nearby and of course Corfu is a close trip… Tirana I think was the easiest city to get settled into in Albania for me...
I look forward to the off season there. Everyone is different in what they like, If anything i can come back to Tirana in the winter. Or im right on the border of north Macedonia . And go there for a bit. Or take a bus ride to Greece for a bit. Looking forward to it.
Hi from Norway. I will be going to Albania for the 9 time in September. Visit my Albanian friends in Tirana and also stay a few days in Pogradec and Shiroke (the two latter new to me). I started to travel to Albania in 2016 and now I always miss it when I am not there. Been several places mostly at the Riviera and Tepelene. Love this country and the people.
Hi Patrick, thks for the useful update! Do you have a problem with the smoking culture in Tirana ? I understand from another YT channel that it is impossible to escape second-hand smoke in Tirana because people are smoking everywhere in cafes, restaurants and on their patios …. That UA-camr couldn’t even go out to their patio to relax because the neighbours are smoking on the neighbouring patios too ….. Sorry, I forgot to first ask whether are you a smoker ? 😊.
I smoked years ago. Many smoke here. But most smoke out side. Can a smoker be next table from you? Sure, but im not hyper sensitive to it. A youtuber not being able to go on their patio sounds a little extreme. But i dont know if their allergic to it.
Go to hear you are doing well here. Good luck with your move, you will do well wherever you land. In the end, real estate is just real estate; it's always about the people.🍻
Hi Patrick - Wow 4 months ey? Time flies. About the Taxes; a) All US CITIZENS no matter where they reside, even overseas, if they work, they need to pay Taxes to the US GOVERNMENT. There are e few benefits based on the income a USC makes overseas but if they work for US company they pay based on US income. If the USC decides to open e business or work for a foreign company but is a nomad in Albania, they have to adhere to the Albania Tax laws if you reside in Albania. So, for USC who are working, is a double dip in their pockets. I am glad, Albania, is becoming home for you and April. Stay safe and healthy. Hopefully soon I will have a chance to meet you guys in TR.
i beg people to not just listen to a youtuber. On taxes. That includes me or even you my friend. I beg people to Look up a lawyer from here. Go to web page. Call or write them. Get it straight from horses mouth. Thats why i dont like to say what the taxes are and what they aren't. Ive run this by my Albanian lawyer as well as other expats here that have been here for years, There will be a big smile on their faces if they do. I hope i said that right my friend, i mean no insult you are my friend.Hope your ok Tonyz ! Might be moving in a few months down to south of country soon.
@@patrickoverseas I get it Sir. It is a very sensitive subject. The Attorney, I have a connection with in Tirana, assists me with any and all legal stuff. Be safe and I know for a fact you will enjoy traveling around Albania!
Hi Patrick, I will be visiting Tirana with my husband and 19-yr-old son Nov 30-Dec 22, 2024. Will you still be living in Tirana then? If so, I'd love to arrange a meetup with you and April. We are investigating Albania as a potential long-term destination. We are in our 50s and are still working remotely for US clients so it would be helpful to learn about your on-the-ground experience.
Hi ! We might. I wish i could give you a more yes or no answer. We are looking at property in a city called Pogradec near the southern border. If we are still here, Please reach out to us.
@@patrickoverseas Great. Good luck in Pogradec. We'll reach out when we arrive. If you are still in town, let's connect. If not, then perhaps we'll cross paths in the future. :)
I like a ghost city at times. At 61 i like a little quiet now and then. And lets say i dont. Looks like a good time to visit another country. Which is our plan from the start . Were home Basers . And hope to visit one our two countries a year then come home . Being on the border of North Macedonia And being very close to Greece doesn't hurt. Give me the quiet time.
Patrick I’m retired and living on my retirement check every month, and I’m wondering if I could live there comfortably on my own without paying more than 500 dollars for a month rent in the capital, where your at. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the vagabond channel with Dan.
@@MikelJackson-d8r yes..thats why were looking at a small place to buy and be done with it. The amount of construction here is unreal . If you go to www.tiranatimes.com its a news paper in English. Donald Trumps son inlaw is building a resort here on a island called Sazan here in Albania. Crazy. I listed the paper so you can read for yourself.
You mentioned in a prior video that you use Schwab. Do you have a permanent physical address in the US? Have you been hassled yet about being out of the US? I would make sure you use a VPN to keep yourself off the radar.
What im about to tell you believe me , i heard the horror stories. But depends on the banks you use. I always use a v.p.n. But also made sure to pick the right banks or institutions. Im not hiding on the down low my banks know im here. I.M.H.O. Schwab is the best. Before i left i told them i will be in Italy, then Albania. We setup security word with them. Then they said just put in how long you are planning to stay. You can put a year, then redo it as you close in on the year. They deal with MANY expats. You will hear trolls try to scare you no matter what. Bank of America knows im here as well. But i fransfer thier money to Schwab or my wise account when i need it..no problem. Depends on who you choose to have your money with. Top 3 imho...Schwab, fidelity, capitol one 360 , most friendly for expats. my opinion.
@@patrickoverseas I'm retired, and I live out of the US. I had a run in with Schwab last year. It seems somewhat arbitrary, but it does happen. Even with that unfortunate experience, Schwab is great.
Patrick: PO- (like harry Potter) Gra(to grapple) Dec( De like decades and the last letter C is pronounced as ts) Po- Gra-Dec. I thought you said Pokker Deck lol and im like is he going to some asian countries?
@@patrickoverseas oh no is not like that, I'm telling you that because if you are English speaker you can literally pronounce all the sounds that are in albanian probably you might have difficulty with the letter q, the pronunciation is a bit tough like the word qofte- meatball.
Patrick, thanks for the 4 month update. I've been watching your videos from the beginning. Your authentic honesty and respect for the people and culture is refreshing. I think that is driving up the subscribers. You don't hype things, that's a real plus. Keep up the good work.
yes you have been here from beginning. And i thank you. I thank you all.
True pioneer spirit. Thank you for your insights they are truly invaluable. May peace, love & friendship walk with you always 🙏
Thank you John ! To you as well !
It really touched me when you spoke about how kind the people of Albania have been to you and your wife. I must make a trip and visit the country. I am a single American man currently living in Germany and enjoy your videos.
Hi ! It really seems the more respect i give them , the better it is for me and april. I lived in Germany in the 80s. I know that was a long time ago but i loved it. Safe travels !
So glad you and April are enjoying your Albanian adventure, Patrick! As always, thanks for sharing it with us. (I'm only 3 years behind you.) Also, thank you for continuing to carry the flag for being a good ambassador for our country!
Thank you so much ! And 3 years will go by fast.
Thank you for this video Patrick! I feel so proud that Albania and Albanians have treated you so well. And don’t forget to vote in November please 😄 !
i will..and love it here
your videos help folks who are thinking of making a change in location. While change can be scary for some, it's best to open to any and all situations that can occur. We travel full-time and love discovering new places. I'm sure you've opened the eyes of many folks who will look at Albania seriously as an option. Perhaps your videos will help to establish a new group of folks, getting to know you in the new town.
Hi thank you. Just hope people see there are options out there for retirement.
I have always learned that it takes a minimum of 3 months to become acclimated to your area. You start memorizing streets and places and your area becomes your comfort zone, I hated to leave Italy after my 3-month stay but the Schengen rule wouldn't allow me to stay any longer. I am hoping to come to Albania very soon, hopefully by November if all goes well
Its nice to have a year . Exploring ways to stay longer. I just so worried giving out bad info. so i just tell peeps to call lawyers HERE. in country. But 1 year no visa? gold for u.s.a. citizens.
Thank you Patrick! I was already thinking about looking closely at Albania. Your's and Dan's videos just made that more of a priority. Thank you!
you for watching !
Thanks 🙏 Patrick,great work keep up your amazing work it helps us a lot.
Your very kind. Thank you for the comment !
You are such a great representative for us! Belated Happy Birthday 🎉😊
Thank you. Thank you for watching. I mean that.
Glad to meet you virtually. I hope to meet you when I get there. I have a friend on his way for a couple of weeks stay.
Hope so. We will be out of town for 3-4 days at the end of the month with friends. But should be back in Tirana after that.
Hi Patrick, I have been watching some of the James Leithart videos. He is another American expat who lives in Pogradec. He seems like a really good guy and his UA-cam videos are just soo good and sensitively made. Hope you guys meet and sparkle a friendship
Yes weve emailed each other and he is very kind. Hope we bump into each others soon. Most likely after we move here. Were heading back to Tirana tomorrow. And yes his editing skills are awesome.
Love your videos, what you are doing is awesome. You are providing a great service, by giving people honest info and real life experiences that will help those that may have some doubts or worries about moving overseas. Wife and I will soon be Expats, as well. We are from Fort Worth and look forward to meeting you in a few months, if possible. I have been bragging about your channel to coworkers. Keep doing what you do, blessings to you and yours ALWAYS, amigo
You are very kind ! Thank you for being here ! I mean that . Blessings to you as well !
Good morning, just changed my channel name to Two retired amigos travel. I noticed my name appeared in previous channel name. Just a simple update. Enjoy your travels ALWAYS! Enjoy the beautiful weekend.
@@RetiredLifeTravel you as well buddy !
Thanks so much! Patrick
Hi Monte ! Hope you are well
So true about safety. I never felt safer in a major city.
Good to feel that way. Thank you for comment ! Hope we can meet.
@@patrickoverseasyes will def holler at y’all once we get this house sold. Cheers
@@passportdreams857 plz do !
Thank you for your honesty that it was scary. I am solo and will be making the move there. I am excited and worried all at the same time, but you never know if you don’t try. Plus, I love a good challenge!😂
yes i get it. The move was scary . Because it was everything i was taught. Best thing i ever did. Easy ? no..that would be a lie.
Hey great videos. Just a question. Is there a beach area? I love the ocean and beach life. Thanks again for all the information and great aspect on life. Change is hard but is well rewarded if done right
MANY beach cities here.
Great video, thanks!!!
Thanks for watching Carolyn !
I did find Pogradec to be very small and very quiet in the off season. One reason I like Sarande in the off season is there was still a lot to do nearby and of course Corfu is a close trip… Tirana I think was the easiest city to get settled into in Albania for me...
I look forward to the off season there. Everyone is different in what they like, If anything i can come back to Tirana in the winter. Or im right on the border of north Macedonia . And go there for a bit. Or take a bus ride to Greece for a bit. Looking forward to it.
Living on 2k a month and eating out every day, that's amazing. Surprise that you've kept yourself in shape.
I was in much better shape. ( more from the joys of aging )..but even going out we eat healthy. Lots of chicken. All this walking helps too
Hi from Norway. I will be going to Albania for the 9 time in September. Visit my Albanian friends in Tirana and also stay a few days in Pogradec and Shiroke (the two latter new to me). I started to travel to Albania in 2016 and now I always miss it when I am not there. Been several places mostly at the Riviera and Tepelene. Love this country and the people.
Thank you for the comment and thank you for watching !
Can’t wait for our trip to Pogredec!! I vote bus 🚌
bus it is !
Hi Patrick, thks for the useful update! Do you have a problem with the smoking culture in Tirana ? I understand from another YT channel that it is impossible to escape second-hand smoke in Tirana because people are smoking everywhere in cafes, restaurants and on their patios …. That UA-camr couldn’t even go out to their patio to relax because the neighbours are smoking on the neighbouring patios too ….. Sorry, I forgot to first ask whether are you a smoker ? 😊.
I smoked years ago. Many smoke here. But most smoke out side. Can a smoker be next table from you? Sure, but im not hyper sensitive to it. A youtuber not being able to go on their patio sounds a little extreme. But i dont know if their allergic to it.
I’m indian i like u Albania
Hello sir ! thank you for watching.
Go to hear you are doing well here. Good luck with your move, you will do well wherever you land. In the end, real estate is just real estate; it's always about the people.🍻
Hi Arnold ! Perfectly said sir. Say hi to the wife for us !
Just subscribed, the Vagabond sent me!
Hi Thank you so much for subscribing ! Meeting dan was great ! Both of them are so down to earth . Im proud to call them friends !
Thank you for answering my emails!
I try..it can be hard. i try. Thank you for being here !
Thx for the videos. I live on the Gulf Coast. How are the winters there and the skeeters?
Hi ! Depends on city. You can have a city like Korca with lots of snow. Or here in Tirana with no snow.
Odd question, I know, are you able to stream Amazon Prime Video in Albania? Or does Amazon even deliver packages in Albania?
Hi...you a fire stick with vpn. works !
Can I import my motorcycle. I have a 2022 harley sportster I would like to bring with me. Thanks for any info on this
Good question. Im sure you can. how i dont know. Or the cost. We sold our bikes before we came.
Hi Patrick - Wow 4 months ey? Time flies. About the Taxes; a) All US CITIZENS no matter where they reside, even overseas, if they work, they need to pay Taxes to the US GOVERNMENT. There are e few benefits based on the income a USC makes overseas but if they work for US company they pay based on US income.
If the USC decides to open e business or work for a foreign company but is a nomad in Albania, they have to adhere to the Albania Tax laws if you reside in Albania.
So, for USC who are working, is a double dip in their pockets.
I am glad, Albania, is becoming home for you and April. Stay safe and healthy. Hopefully soon I will have a chance to meet you guys in TR.
i beg people to not just listen to a youtuber. On taxes. That includes me or even you my friend. I beg people to Look up a lawyer from here. Go to web page. Call or write them. Get it straight from horses mouth. Thats why i dont like to say what the taxes are and what they aren't. Ive run this by my Albanian lawyer as well as other expats here that have been here for years, There will be a big smile on their faces if they do. I hope i said that right my friend, i mean no insult you are my friend.Hope your ok Tonyz ! Might be moving in a few months down to south of country soon.
@@patrickoverseas I get it Sir. It is a very sensitive subject. The Attorney, I have a connection with in Tirana, assists me with any and all legal stuff.
Be safe and I know for a fact you will enjoy traveling around Albania!
Hi Patrick, I will be visiting Tirana with my husband and 19-yr-old son Nov 30-Dec 22, 2024. Will you still be living in Tirana then? If so, I'd love to arrange a meetup with you and April. We are investigating Albania as a potential long-term destination. We are in our 50s and are still working remotely for US clients so it would be helpful to learn about your on-the-ground experience.
Hi ! We might. I wish i could give you a more yes or no answer. We are looking at property in a city called Pogradec near the southern border. If we are still here, Please reach out to us.
@@patrickoverseas Great. Good luck in Pogradec. We'll reach out when we arrive. If you are still in town, let's connect. If not, then perhaps we'll cross paths in the future. :)
@@patigoodell8657 sounds perfect!
I’m just wondering about the rent, am making way more than 500 bucks,thanks for the advice
Safe travels !
Progradec is nice city for summer time winter it’s Like Ghosts city so Patrick don’t rush
I like a ghost city at times. At 61 i like a little quiet now and then. And lets say i dont. Looks like a good time to visit another country. Which is our plan from the start . Were home Basers . And hope to visit one our two countries a year then come home . Being on the border of North Macedonia And being very close to Greece doesn't hurt. Give me the quiet time.
I second that comment... I would not rush to move to Pogradets ..
Patrick I’m retired and living on my retirement check every month, and I’m wondering if I could live there comfortably on my own without paying more than 500 dollars for a month rent in the capital, where your at. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the vagabond channel with Dan.
You could find nice places for $ 500 a month.
@@Albanianwarrior23 thanks 🙏 Patrick
$500. that would be tough. To find rent at $ 500 ? Yes...for total living on $500 ?im not sure about that. Comfortably, id say no.
@@MikelJackson-d8r yes..thats why were looking at a small place to buy and be done with it. The amount of construction here is unreal . If you go to www.tiranatimes.com its a news paper in English. Donald Trumps son inlaw is building a resort here on a island called Sazan here in Albania. Crazy. I listed the paper so you can read for yourself.
Its a tough decision but it isn't. If things don't work out (not your cup of tea etc), you go back home. Its not the end of the world, either way
Or try another country. Thats what we decided. If we dont like it..we would move.
@@patrickoverseas Yeah. The point is...there really is no downside
You mentioned in a prior video that you use Schwab. Do you have a permanent physical address in the US? Have you been hassled yet about being out of the US? I would make sure you use a VPN to keep yourself off the radar.
yes i talk about all that in the playlist on my channel. things to do before you come
What im about to tell you believe me , i heard the horror stories. But depends on the banks you use. I always use a v.p.n. But also made sure to pick the right banks or institutions. Im not hiding on the down low my banks know im here. I.M.H.O. Schwab is the best. Before i left i told them i will be in Italy, then Albania. We setup security word with them. Then they said just put in how long you are planning to stay. You can put a year, then redo it as you close in on the year. They deal with MANY expats. You will hear trolls try to scare you no matter what. Bank of America knows im here as well. But i fransfer thier money to Schwab or my wise account when i need it..no problem. Depends on who you choose to have your money with. Top 3 imho...Schwab, fidelity, capitol one 360 , most friendly for expats. my opinion.
@@patrickoverseas I just found your channel. I should have reviewed more of your videos before commenting.
@@patrickoverseas I'm retired, and I live out of the US. I had a run in with Schwab last year. It seems somewhat arbitrary, but it does happen. Even with that unfortunate experience, Schwab is great.
no worries buddy
Patrick: PO- (like harry Potter)
Gra(to grapple) Dec( De like decades and the last letter C is pronounced as ts)
Po- Gra-Dec.
I thought you said Pokker Deck lol and im like is he going to some asian countries?
( bows my head )...i still struggle with English
@@patrickoverseas oh no is not like that, I'm telling you that because if you are English speaker you can literally pronounce all the sounds that are in albanian probably you might have difficulty with the letter q, the pronunciation is a bit tough like the word qofte- meatball.
That's funny, thought he said Poker Deck as well.
Any country with a place called Poker Deck must be ok! (yes, I know really.)
LMAO ! yes sir...never thought of it like that.
hi John Stackmaster
Hi ! to funny.... you made me laugh
albania is safe for foreigners
Albania is pretty safe for all people there. it has very little crime.
correct. they got it right here.
Love Albania 🇦🇱🇦🇱🇦🇱🇦🇱🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
We agree !