Where Do Gays Retire Podcast (Mark Goldstein)

pamm meyers

pamm meyers is, storyteller, dynamic leader and advocate dedicated to fostering prosperity within the LGBTQIA community through business innovation and social advocacy. With a multifaceted background, pamm has become a trailblazer in various fields, leaving an indelible mark on New Mexico’s LGBTQIA and business communities. 

As CEO of Go Social, pamm meyers Social Media.

https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ pamm is at the forefront of digital marketing and podcasting solutions for business owners and organizations. Her visionary approach has empowered countless ventures to harness the potential of social media, unlocking new avenues for growth and engagement. It is a driving force behind her client’s success, leveraging the power of connectivity to elevate their brand through digital marketing and podcasting. 

pamm is the managing partner of Two Flower Productions, a podcasting company that produces “Lip Service, the podcast of Our Coming Out Stories”, New Mexico’s Business Podcast.

Previously the Execu?ve Director of the New Mexico Out Business Alliance, currently, Board Advisor for the Way Out West Film Fest, Board Advisor for the Albuquerque Community Founda?on Pride Circle, hMps://abqcf.org/pride-circle/

supporting the LGBTQIA community through philanthropy. 

pamm meyers

https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ pamm@pammmeyers.com

Albuquerque, New Mexico with Pamm Meyers 

Summary 

Pam Myers, a dynamic leader and advocate, shares her retirement experience in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

She discusses the LGBTQ+ community, arts and culture, cost of living, and transportation in the area.

Pam highlights the welcoming and safe environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and the thriving arts scene in Albuquerque. She also mentions the affordable cost of living and the abundance of galleries, theaters, and restaurants in the city. Pam concludes by mentioning the unique attractions in New Mexico, such as the Balloon Fiesta and the historic train rides.

Albuquerque, New Mexico offers an enchanting atmosphere with its blue skies and sense of peacefulness. Albuquerque's lack of traffic and affordable housing make it an attractive option. The city has a public transportation system, including buses and a rail trolley, but owning a car is still necessary.

The airport is conveniently located and undergoing renovations.

Crime rates in Albuquerque are comparable to other cities of its size, with petty theft being the most common issue.

The healthcare system is well-equipped, with multiple hospitals and reasonable wait times for specialists. The LGBTQ+ community in Albuquerque is welcoming and supportive. Overall, Albuquerque offers an ideal climate, affordability, and a strong sense of community.\

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Summary/Intro

The podcast episode explores the appeal of Lewes, Delaware, as a prime retirement destination for the LGBTQ community, highlighting its welcoming environment, affordable cost of living, and proximity to beautiful beaches. Host Mark Goldstein interviews Terry Manzberger, who shares insights into life in Lewes, emphasizing its friendly atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Terry discusses the town's climate, healthcare facilities, and the impact of climate change, noting that while flooding and rising sea levels are concerns, local initiatives are addressing these issues. The episode also delves into the vibrant social scene in Lewes and nearby Rehoboth Beach, where numerous events and organizations cater to the LGBTQ community. Additionally, the podcast touches on the benefits of Delaware's tax structure, which makes it an attractive location for retirees.

Show Notes

Mark Goldstein engages in an insightful conversation with Terry Manzberger, who shares why he and his partner chose to retire in Lewes, Delaware. The episode offers a comprehensive look at Lewes as an ideal spot for LGBTQ retirees, emphasizing its welcoming environment, affordability, and quality of life. Terry describes the town's appeal, from its scenic beauty and historical charm to its vibrant community life.

Terry discusses the practical aspects of living in Lewes, detailing the local climate and its effects on daily life. He addresses climate change concerns, particularly coastal flooding, and the initiatives to combat these issues. The discussion of the cost of living is thorough, with Terry comparing it to other areas and highlighting the lack of sales tax and reasonable property taxes as key advantages. He also discusses the housing market, explaining the options available for buying and renting in the area.

The episode delves into community life in Lewes, focusing on the strong LGBTQ presence and the numerous social and cultural opportunities available. Terry talks about his involvement in local historical activities, clubs, and organizations that make Lewes a lively and inclusive place. The conversation wraps up with a look at healthcare services in the area, noting the improvements and availability of specialists. Overall, the episode paints a vivid picture of Lewes as an attractive retirement location for the LGBTQ community, combining affordability, community spirit, and quality of life.

Takeaways:

• Lewes, Delaware, is a small, quaint town known for its LGBTQ-friendly environment and affordable living.
• Terry and Charlie moved to Lewes after vacationing there for 20 years, attracted by the beaches and low cost of living.
• The climate in Lewes is typical mid-Atlantic, with mild winters, hot summers, and a threat of hurricanes.
• Due to its flat geography and wetlands, climate change impacts Lewes with stronger storms and flooding.
• The cost of living in Lewes is lower than in many neighboring states, with no sales tax and low property taxes.
• Lewes offers a vibrant LGBTQ community with many social groups, events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Local hospitals like Beebe have improved Healthcare access in Lewes, but specialist wait times can still be extended.
• Crime in Lewes is low, mainly consisting of petty theft, making it a generally safe area for retirees.

Pittsburgh emerges as a vibrant and welcoming city for the LGBTQ community, particularly for retirees seeking a safe and affordable place to live. Mark Goldstein interviews Mike Madden, a long-time resident who shares insights about the city's unique blend of East Coast and Midwest charm and rich cultural offerings. The discussion highlights Pittsburgh's appealing amenities, including its low cost of living, diverse dining scene, and robust healthcare access, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle down. Mike also emphasizes the city's transformation from its industrial roots to a modern, tech-driven environment while noting the importance of community support and safety. With its engaging neighborhoods and strong LGBTQ presence, Pittsburgh offers a fulfilling lifestyle for retirees seeking culture and connection.

This podcast episode invites listeners to discover why Pittsburgh is a desirable retirement city for the LGBTQ community. Mark Goldstein interviews Mike Madden, who discusses his transformative journey and the city's remarkable evolution. The conversation addresses Pittsburgh's growing reputation as a retirement destination, covering aspects such as climate, safety, healthcare, and cultural vibrancy. Madden's insights reveal a city that balances affordability with rich amenities, making it a practical and attractive option for LGBTQ retirees seeking a welcoming environment to call home.

Throughout the episode, Madden recounts personal anecdotes and shares the various social and recreational opportunities available to residents. The discussion touches on the significance of community engagement and the sense of belonging that Pittsburgh offers to LGBTQ individuals. Listeners will learn about the city's rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and increasing inclusivity, all contributing to a supportive environment for retirees. The episode highlights not only the practical advantages of living in Pittsburgh, such as lower housing costs and free public transportation for seniors but also the emotional fulfillment of being part of a vibrant and connected community, ultimately presenting Pittsburgh as a city where LGBTQ individuals can thrive.

Takeaways:

• Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of urban amenities and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ community.
• The city has transformed from its industrial roots into a vibrant, tech-driven environment attracting retirees.
• With no state taxes on pensions or Social Security, Pittsburgh is a financially appealing option for retirees.
• Healthcare access is robust, with a range of quality providers and minimal appointment wait times.
• Pittsburgh's cultural scene includes world-class museums, theaters, and a vibrant dining experience.
• Safety measures in the city have improved, making it a relatively safe place for residents.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheredogaysretire.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Carnegie Mellon
• University of Pittsburgh
• Duquesne University
• UPMC
• Allegheny Health Network
• Eddie Merlot's
• Apteca
• Pusadis Garden
• Con Alma
• Heinz History Museum
• Andy Warhol Museum

Steven recently retired from teaching high school math and enjoys having no responsibilities besides his family and hobbies. He has renewed his hobbies of quilting, cooking, and racquetball. He is currently ranked #3 in his age division in Washington State.

Steven moved to Seattle after graduating from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, in 1989 and met his husband in 1990. They have been together for thirty-four years. They have two adopted sons and await grandchildren, although none are imminently expected. 

Steven's community involvement is a testament to his commitment to social causes. He's an active member of their Lutheran congregation and other civic groups. His activism includes advocating for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the Lutheran Church and working to alleviate hunger and homelessness. One of his most significant achievements is helping a refugee family from Syria start a new life in British Columbia. Recently, he took on the role of regional coordinator for Gonzaga University's Lavender Alumni Network.

Steven Chapman, a retired high school math teacher, shares his experience living in Seattle. He fell in love with the city after visiting for Thanksgiving in 1988 and has lived there ever since. Seattle is known for its unique climate, with rain over extended periods rather than concentrated bursts.

The city is also surrounded by water, with Puget Sound to the west and Lake Washington to the east.

With high housing prices and rental fees, Seattle's living cost is approximately 50% higher than the national average. However, the city has a vibrant food scene and is LGBTQ-friendly, with inclusive community centers and events like Pride.

Seattle offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with symphonies, ballets, operas, art museums, and Broadway touring companies. Burlesque shows are also popular in the city. Seattle hosts the Seattle International Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in the country.

The city has a commuter-based transit system, with light rail and buses, but having a car in certain areas may be necessary.

Healthcare in Seattle is excellent, with multiple hospitals and a high number of LGBT doctors.

The state of Washington does not have an income tax, which benefits retirees, and property taxes can vary depending on the location and value of the property. Seattle has high property taxes and sales tax, which fund government services.

Crime rates vary by neighborhood, but systemic racism within the police department is a problem.

Due to high housing costs, Seattle has a significant homeless population. The city provides some services and housing options for the homeless, but it's insufficient.

Seattle is known for its laid-back culture, acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, the city experiences gloomy winters and is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Mykle Flatley and his spouse Doug moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Oloron Sainte-Marie, France in 2021. They chose Oloron Saint-Marie because of its climate, affordability, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. Michael, who is a dual Irish and American citizen, obtained Irish citizenship 20 years ago, which made moving to France easier. The biggest challenge for them has been the language, but they have found the French to be kind and helpful. Oloron Saint-Marie does not have a large LGBTQ community, but Mykle and Doug have felt accepted and welcomed by their French neighbors. They have made friends with both expats and locals and have found the local economy to be affordable. In this part of the conversation, the principal themes discussed include healthcare expenses, the cost of housing, taxes, and taxation, visas for residency, language barriers, arts and culture, restaurants and food, public transportation, and driver's licenses. In this conversation, Mykle Flatley shares his experience of moving from the United States to France, specifically the towns of Oloron and Pau. He discusses the process of obtaining a driver's license in France, the low crime rate in his town, the affordable and comprehensive healthcare system, and the cultural differences he has encountered. Mykle encourages others to consider living abroad and emphasizes the importance of learning the local language. He concludes by expressing his love for his new home and the opportunities it has provided.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a commune in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France. It is located at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, at the confluence of the Gave d'Oloron and the Gave de Pau (Pronounced Po) rivers. The town has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a historic town, with a rich cultural heritage. The town center is pedestrianized and lined with half-timbered houses. There are also several churches and other religious buildings in the town.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. The town is also a center for Basque culture, and there are several Basque festivals and events held here throughout the year.

This conversation compares Torremolinos and Sitges in Spain. Torremolinos is in the Andalusian region, while Sitges is in Catalonia. Both places have a similar climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

The cost of living is relatively high in both areas, especially for housing. Healthcare is accessible in both places, with private health insurance being standard. However, the public healthcare system in Catalonia does not cover PrEP for HIV prevention.

Overall, Torremolinos and Sitges offer a vibrant lifestyle with access to beaches, outdoor activities, and various amenities. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss healthcare, language barriers, transportation, and arts and culture in Torremolinos and Sitges.

They mention the availability of STD testing and HIV medication in Catalonia, the friendliness of the Spanish and Catalan people, the language differences between Catalan and Spanish, and the importance of meeting people halfway in terms of language.

They also talk about the transportation systems in both places, including the local trains and buses, and the ease of walking to most places.

In terms of arts and culture, they mention the presence of art galleries, museums, festivals, and theaters in Torremolinos, Sitges, Barcelona, and Malaga.

Tormelinos and Sitges are excellent destinations for food lovers, offering a variety of cuisines. Tormelinos is known for its fresh sardines grilled on swords, while Sitges provides a range of Spanish and international dishes.

Both places have a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with numerous gay bars and clubs. The communities are welcoming and accepting, making it a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Regarding residency and taxes, Spain offers retirement visas for those who can prove they have the means to support themselves. The country has a double taxation treaty with the US, allowing residents to deduct what they pay in Spain from their US taxes.

Crime rates are generally low in both Torremolinos and Sitges, and there is a strong police presence and a sense of safety.

When moving to these areas, it is recommended to join local expat and LGBTQ+ communities for support and advice.

Richard Jasicki

He just turned 65 in May! He had a Mid-Atlantic Ocean childhood in Europe and the US as a US Air Force brat with an English “Mum.” He worked many years in the UK and California before retiring at 62 and moving to Spain.

He met his life partner, Charles, in 2001 online. Their first meeting turned out to be at a wedding venue that had been canceled and opened its doors to the public—very auspicious! They married as soon as it was legal in 2014 by their pool in San Diego.

He has lived in Torremolinos on the Costa del Sol for almost two years and loves it. Their apartment has a beautiful view of the Mediterranean.

Leo Boni

They wanted a change of lifestyle. They lived in the SF Bay Area and are both tired of the high cost of living, the lack of vacation time, and not being able to shake the feeling that they could not afford to retire there. He is Italian by birth, so they first wanted to move to Italy; they chose Spain because of its weather and infrastructure. They made an exploratory trip to Barcelona and liked it but didn't fall in love with it. They did fall in love with Sitges. They moved to Barcelona first for various reasons, mainly because this was pre-pandemic, and his job required him to be in the office, located off Passeig de Gracia in BCN. When quarantine came, they took the opportunity to move to Sitges. There were several deciding factors, being on the beach, in a smaller town, with a vibrant gay and food scene. Sitges offered them the more tranquil life they were looking for. 

He is an Italian citizen, so he and his partner have the right to...

Scott Hier

Born and raised in Syracuse, New York, Scott lives in Camillus, a charming suburb outside the city. He comes with a rich worker-compensation background, where he honed his negotiation skills over a commendable 23-year career at an insurance company, specializing in high-dollar claims for a decade.

During the challenging times of COVID-19 in 2020, Scott pivoted towards a new passion—real estate. After completing his licensing in September 2021, he transitioned from his corporate role in early 2022 to focus full-time on helping individuals and families find their perfect homes. His previous experience has proven invaluable, especially in assisting buyers navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.

Scott's journey into real estate began over sixteen years ago when he first recognized his passion for the field. Although initially held back by financial constraints, his love for home renovations and genuine satisfaction in assisting others to achieve their dream of homeownership kept his interest alive. Today, he's not just selling homes but also helping familiarize newcomers with the myriad opportunities Central New York offers, ensuring they understand the buying and selling process thoroughly. Scott, welcome to the show, and thank you for joining us to share your insights and experiences in Syracuse's vibrant real estate market.

Summary

Mark Goldstein interviews Scott Hier, a real estate expert from Syracuse, New York, in this conversation. They discuss various aspects of living in Syracuse, including its climate, housing market, cost of living, healthcare services, transportation options, and the vibrant arts and culture scene. Scott shares insights into the local LGBTQ+ community, the support systems available, and the ongoing revitalization of downtown Syracuse. The conversation highlights the unique characteristics of Syracuse, making it an attractive place to live and work. In this conversation, Scott Hier shares insights about Syracuse, highlighting its vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options, and the community's overall safety. He emphasizes the city's appeal as a hidden gem, especially for retirees and the LGBTQ community, while discussing the seasonal changes and activities available throughout the year. Scott also touches on the prospects of Syracuse, including new developments and the importance of community involvement.

Takeaways

• Syracuse is known for its heavy snowfall, but recent winters have been milder.
• Although the housing market in Syracuse has seen significant price increases recently, it remains affordable compared to national averages.
• Healthcare services in Syracuse are robust, with several specialized hospitals.
• Syracuse has made strides in walkability and bike lanes, enhancing urban mobility.
• The downtown area is revitalizing, with old buildings being converted into condos.
• Various organizations and events support the LGBTQ+ community in Syracuse.
• Syracuse hosts a pride festival that has grown in popularity over the years.
• Syracuse's arts and culture scene includes museums, theaters, and live performances.
• Syracuse University contributes to the local arts scene with its drama department.
• Transportation options include public buses, Amtrak, and ride-sharing services. Syracuse has a rich cultural scene with plenty of shows and events.
• The dining options in Syracuse are diverse and plentiful, especially Italian cuisine.
• Safety in Syracuse is generally high, with a downward trend in violent crime.
• Syracuse is often overlooked but offers a lot for residents and visitors alike.
• The city has a variety of seasonal activities, making it appealing year-round.
• Retirement in Syracuse is attractive due to its community and amenities.
• Syracuse is evolving with new...

In this solo episode of Where Do Gays Retire, Mark Goldstein compares Sitges and Torremolinos, Spain, two of the most popular retirement destinations for the LGBTQ+ community. Mark covers critical aspects such as climate, cost of living, healthcare, LGBTQ+ community, transportation, walkability, arts and culture, dining, and safety. Stay tuned until the end as Mark reveals which destination is top for LGBTQ+ retirees.

#LGBTQRetirement #SitgesSpain #TorremolinosSpain #WhereDoGaysRetire #LGBTQTravel #SpainRetirement #RetireInSpain #LGBTQLife #GayRetirement

Torremolinos has a warmer climate year-round compared to Sitges

Sitges has a higher cost of living than Torremolinos

Torremolinos has better healthcare access and proximity to hospitals

Sitges has a more established and longer-standing LGBTQ+ community

Both cities offer excellent walkability and public transport options

Sitges has a more vibrant arts and culture scene, while Torremolinos is more focused on beach and nightlife

Sitges offers a diverse dining scene, while Torremolinos is better for casual, traditional meals

Both cities are generally safe but experience petty theft due to tourism

Torremolinos has better tax advantages, particularly regarding income and inheritance tax

Torremolinos is the winner!

Mark DeLancey, a man of many accomplishments, is the Executive Director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter. At 61, he is a retired Marine, a prominent LGBTQ leader, a Triplet, a world record holder, an Artist, a Horror Film buff, a Theatre enthusiast, a part-time gardener, and a recovering Gen X/Boomer cusp baby.

Mark's unique perspective on life and his commitment to the LGBTQ community has landed him in Salisbury, MD, where he has retired to settle down with his fiancée Eric and his new puppy, Ash. His work keeps him active and busy as he plans the city's new pride parade while he tries to find time with family and makes new friends from all over Delmarva.

While traveling worldwide and finally settling in Maryland, his life may be considered an adventure by some, a tragedy by others, and a short trashy novel by haters. However, he is living proof that we all have a story to tell. 

Salisbury, Maryland

Mark Delancey, the executive director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter, shares his journey of moving to Salisbury and why he chose it as his new home.

Salisbury is located on the Delmarva Peninsula and offers a unique downtown area, historical district, marina, beaches, museums, and a zoo. The LGBTQ community in Salisbury is not huge, but it is diverse and accepting. Rehoboth Beach, a thriving LGBTQ community, is only 45 minutes away.

The cost of living in Salisbury is relatively affordable, with rental prices for a two-bedroom, two-bath averaging around $1,180 per month. The town has been revitalized with new developments, walking paths, and community events.

Salisbury also offers arts and culture with galleries, a museum, and regular exhibits. Salisbury, Maryland, provides a welcoming and safe community for LGBTQ individuals. The city has a growing LGBTQ population and a supportive atmosphere. The healthcare system is accessible, with a major hospital and numerous clinics.

The restaurant scene in Salisbury is diverse, offering a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and seafood.

The city also has a thriving theater scene, with multiple theater companies and cultural centers. While Salisbury is predominantly a car-centric city, there is a focus on walkability and revitalization of the downtown area. The city is located within a reasonable driving distance to New York and Philadelphia, providing opportunities for theater and cultural experiences.

However, Salisbury does have some challenges, including political divisions and a lack of a larger LGBTQ community. Overall, Salisbury offers affordability, good healthcare, and a sense of community for retirees.

Exploring Lewes, Delaware - A Charming Retirement Destination for the LGBTQ+ Community

In this episode of the 'Where Do Gays Retire' podcast, host Mark Goldstein highlights the quaint town of Lewes, Delaware, as a compelling retirement destination for the LGBTQ+ community. The discussion covers key aspects such as the town's climate, cost of living, crime rates, and access to healthcare. Mark elaborates on the town's proximity to the LGBTQ+ friendly Rehoboth Beach, the tax perks specific to Delaware, and the vibrant food and arts scene Lewes offers. He also underscores the community support through organizations like Delaware Pride and Camp Rehoboth. Considering safety, affordability, and accessible healthcare, Mark makes a strong case for why Lewes could be the perfect place to enjoy one's golden years.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:48 Spotlight on Lewes, Delaware

01:39 Community and Support for LGBTQ+

02:32 Weather and Outdoor Activities

03:24 Walkability and Transportation

04:30 Cost of Living in Lewes

07:52 Tax Benefits in Delaware

09:15 Safety and Crime Rates

10:50 Healthcare Facilities

12:55 Culinary Delights

15:00 Arts, Culture, and Outdoor Attractions

17:11 Conclusion and Farewell

Frontiers of Equality in the Development of EU and US Citizenship

Author: Dr Jeremy B. Bierbach

Jeremy Bierbach (1975) is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in linguistics, Jeremy worked as an IT specialist for several years. In 2001, Jeremy emigrated to the Netherlands. In 2003, he changed his career direction. He studied law at the University of Amsterdam, earning a bachelor’s degree in Dutch law in 2006 and a master’s in constitutional and administrative law in 2007. Jeremy subsequently worked as a legal advisor through Avocado Legal, where he focused on immigration and European migration law. In January 2014, Jeremy joined Franssen Advocaten and was sworn into the Dutch bar as an attorney. In September 2015, he successfully defended his PhD thesis in European constitutional law at the University of Amsterdam. A commercial edition of his thesis, Frontiers of Equality in the Development of US and EU Citizenship, was published in 2017 by Asser Press. 

His specialty and focus of interest are in invoking norms of international law — EU law in particular — as a source of protection for members of minority groups who are unrepresented or underrepresented in the democratic process: in particular EU citizens, their non-EU citizen family members, and other non-EU citizen immigrants to the Netherlands (including British citizens as former EU citizens).

Takeaways

• Amsterdam is a popular city due to its charm and infrastructure.
• The Netherlands is located northwest of Europe and is known for its flat landscape and canals.
• Amsterdam has a temperate climate with short days in winter and long days in summer.
• The city has a history of tolerance and a vibrant LGBTQ community.
• Housing in Amsterdam can be expensive, with limited availability.
• Utilities, including gas and electricity, can be costly.
• The price of groceries in Amsterdam is lower compared to the US, with high-quality produce available.
• Meeting friends and gay people in Amsterdam is relatively easy due to the city's diverse and inclusive culture.
• The Red Light District is a famous area in Amsterdam known for its adult entertainment. Obtaining a visa in the Netherlands is challenging for non-EU citizens, as Dutch immigration law is based on the concept that the country is already whole and has a housing shortage.
• The only ways for non-EU citizens to move to the Netherlands are through family connections, work-related migration, or the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, which allows US citizens to legally reside in the Netherlands to develop and run a business.
• Living in Amsterdam has its advantages, such as a high quality of life, good infrastructure, and a vibrant queer scene. Still, it also has limitations, including limited housing stock and strict zoning regulations.

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Waldron McGinnis is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He lived in China for six years and earned his PhD from the University of South Carolina, researching high education reforms in China. 

Waldron spent twenty-five years in the Pacific Northwest of the US. He developed a master's degree and doctorate in leadership at a university. He traveled the world doing partnership work with global non-profit leaders. For the past thirteen years, he has lived in downtown Tacoma as part of an intentional community that provides transitional housing for homeless people, recent immigrants, and people released from incarceration. He has led men’s work through the Mankind Project and working with men in prison.

In 2023, Waldron received Irish citizenship through his grandfather and, in 2024, retired to County Wexford, Ireland. 

Summary

Waldron McGinnis, a retiree in Courtown, Ireland, shares his experience of retiring in Ireland. Courtown is a village in County Wexford, known for its fishing and seaside charm.

Waldron chose Courtown because he wanted to live in a smaller town near Dublin for travel and welcoming guests.

He highlights the mild climate, affordable cost of living, and access to healthcare as benefits of retiring in Courtown.

Waldron also discusses the process of obtaining Irish citizenship and the visa requirements for retirees.

He emphasizes Ireland's vibrant arts and culture scene, with music, theater, and museums being popular attractions.

The food scene in Courtown offers a variety of options, including traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine. Moving to Ireland offers a safe and peaceful environment with high public trust. The crime rate is low, and the country has strict gun control laws.

Research the cost of living and housing beforehand, and join expat groups for valuable information. Set up a bank account and obtain car insurance ahead of time. Ireland is known for its natural beauty, cultural activities, and historical sites. The language barrier is not an issue; the friendly and inclusive society makes it a welcoming place for LGBTQ individuals. Public transportation is convenient, and cashless payments are standard. Overall, Ireland is an excellent choice for retirement.

Eric is French, born and raised in Paris where he lived and worked as a business journalist until Michael and he left for Malta.

Michael is American by birth (born in Hollywood, Florida) and became French while living in Paris. An HR Executive for 2 very large conglomerates, Michael has moved around a lot for his companies and traveled the world. 

He and Eric decided that life was too short to pass up a move to somewhere warm, and sunny yet still close to Eric's family in Paris. They decided to move to Malta in 2014 and opened a couple of rental properties before restoring an ancient property to become a boutique hotel, Senglea Suites.

Summary:

• Eric Tenin and Michael Salone discuss their move from Paris to Malta.
•  Reasons for choosing Malta as their new home.
• Climate, expat community, LGBTQ+ acceptance, language, and local economy discussed.
• Integration and acceptance of foreigners, cost of housing, and living expenses explored.
• Various aspects of living in Malta covered: taxes, cost of living, the impact of expats, rental properties, quality of life, healthcare system, services, amenities, food prices, transportation, infrastructure, proximity to the airport, and low crime rate.
• Gun laws and safety, cultural differences, honesty, safety for women, homelessness, challenges, access to goods/services, obtaining visa/residency, buying citizenship/residency, and cons of living discussed.

 Takeaways:

•  Malta is popular for expats due to its warm climate, English proficiency, and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
•  English is widely spoken alongside Maltese.
•  Diverse expat community, particularly in areas like Senglea.
•  Housing is expensive, with rental prices ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 euros for a two-bedroom apartment, and home prices averaging around 1 million euros.
•  Gun ownership laws and cultural attitudes differ from the US.
•  Malta is considered safe with low crime rates.
•  Homelessness is not significant due to cultural/legal factors.
•  Limited access to goods/services like Amazon Prime.
•  Obtaining a visa/residency is expensive, and may require meeting financial criteria.
•  Considerations for relocating include lifestyle preferences, language barriers, and access to amenities.

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Summary

Athens, Greece is a vibrant city with a rich history and modern amenities. It offers a mix of ancient ruins, world-class museums, delicious food, and lively nightlife. The city is known for its welcoming LGBTQ+ community, with a gayborhood in the Ghazi neighborhood and a variety of gay-friendly establishments.

Both expats and locals find it relatively easy to make friends, especially through activities and social events. While speaking Greek is not necessary to live in Athens, it can be helpful when dealing with government agencies and utilities. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among healthcare professionals.

Athens offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with theaters, music venues, museums, and festivals. The city has a variety of outdoor theaters and concert venues, including the ancient theater of Epidaurus, known for its exceptional acoustics. The museums in Athens, such as the Acropolis Museum and the Benaki Museum, are top-notch. The city also has a good public transportation system, including metro, buses, trams, and taxis. Housing costs in Athens vary depending on the neighborhood, with apartments ranging from 500 to 1000 euros per month.

The city has a low crime rate, with theft being the most common crime. Overall, Athens is considered a safe city for residents and tourists. They mention that crime is low in Athens, especially violent crime and that it is safe to walk around the city at any hour.

They also talk about the healthcare system in Athens, highlighting the low cost of medical services and medications. They mention that there are enough doctors in Athens and that it is relatively easy to get appointments. They also discuss the different types of visas available for living in Greece and the tax implications of becoming a resident.

Steve Gantzos

Steve Gantzos is a Greek-American currently living in Athens running a business as a real estate broker serving foreign and Greek clients to find their dream home in Greece. Born in the ancient Roman town of Esslingen, Germany, given the Byzantine name of Stylianos belonging to his late grandfather, the family moved to the USA in the latter months of 1969, settling in the Philadelphia area, where his mother's family settled years before, and had established themselves in the Greek community of Upper Darby, a suburb of the city.

As was the norm in the Greek community of the early 70's, the families steadfastly clung to traditions and the language, where Steve grew up speaking Greek as his first language, while enjoying the rich cultural background of his family and ancestors. Greek was the only language he spoke until entering grade school where the challenge of learning English in school turned into both a daunting and exciting task for a young child whose parents depended on his language skills at later stages of life.  

Steve spent most of his life living in the Philadelphia area then a career opportunity took him to Miami, where he spent 12 years in the tropical sun, enjoying the gentrification of the region in the mid-90s. Realizing his heart was always in Europe after numerous visits, he ventured into the process of successfully obtaining ancestral citizenship in Greece to initiate the dream of living in his continent of birth, yet the dream took many years to come to fruition. At the peak of the pandemic, and the realization that life is much too short, the dream to live and work in Europe became reality with the move to Greece in early January 2021. Steve spends much of his time enjoying the richness of his ancestral land, traveling for business and pleasure to places he learned of in his youth, and making wonderful friends along the way while enjoying the remarkable adventure that is his life in Greece.  

Steve Gantzos

Owner and Founder

Today, we’re diving into a big question: Is marriage equality in peril? Spoiler alert: it’s a bit of a rollercoaster, but we’ve got Evan Wolfson on the mic, and he’s here to break it all down. Evan’s not just any guest; he’s a legend in the fight for marriage equality, and he’s got the inside scoop on what’s at stake for the LGBTQ community right now. We chat about the progress we’ve made, the challenges that lie ahead, and how important it is to stay engaged and hopeful. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get into this important convo that’s all about love, rights, and a brighter future!

In the latest episode of Where Do Gays Retire?, we take a compelling look at the intersection of LGBTQ rights and the pressing question of marriage equality. Our host Mark Goldstein sits down with none other than Evan Wolfson, a pioneer in the marriage equality movement. As they navigate through the current political landscape, it becomes clear that while we’ve made significant strides, there are still shadows lurking. Wolfson reflects on his early days as an activist and the fierce battles fought to secure the rights we have today. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges that lie ahead, especially in light of recent threats to these hard-won liberties. Listeners will find themselves armed with knowledge about the historical context of marriage rights, the significance of the Obergefell decision, and the urgent need for continued activism. This episode serves as a rallying cry for the community, encouraging everyone to stay engaged and hopeful as we continue to fight for equality and safety in our retirement years. Mark and Evan remind us that the power of love and commitment is resilient, and together, we can create a future where everyone can retire with dignity and joy.

Takeaways:

• Evan Wolfson's journey in advocating for marriage equality spans over three decades, starting from his law school thesis in 1983.
• The 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision marked a historic victory, legalizing same-sex marriage across the U.S. and changing countless lives.
• Wolfson emphasizes that while the fight for equality continues, there are solid protections in place, like the Respect for Marriage Act.
• Engagement and activism are crucial; we can't just sit back and hope for progress, we must actively participate.
• The LGBTQ+ community has made incredible strides, now 39 countries recognize marriage equality, showcasing the power of perseverance.
• Wolfson encourages everyone to stay hopeful and engaged, as collective action can lead to significant change over time.

Links referenced in this episode:

• wheredogaysretire.com
• freedomtomarry.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Freedom to Marry
• Lambda Legal
• GLAD
• ACLU
• National Center for Lesbian Rights
• Stand Up America
• Indivisible
• Protect America

Graham moved to Valencia, Spain 8 1/2 years ago from Boston, Massachusetts. 
In the past five years, Graham helps people relocate to Valencia with his company Settle Easy.
Settle Easy does a full range of services including visa, residency and relocation services. 
Join Graham and myself in exploring what it's like to live in Valencia.
You can contact Graham at graham@settle-easy.es.

 

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Devon Brooks was a military brat but grew up mostly in and around Virginia, USA. Thirty years ago, he moved to Berkeley, California for graduate school, which is where he met his husband John. In 1999, Devon and John moved to Los Angeles where they still reside. Devon is a Professor of Social Work and former Associate Dean for Faculty at the University of Southern California. 
Devon and his husband plan to retire in Mexico at least part-time. They have owned a home in Puerto Vallarta for over three years and visit Vallarta as often as they can. 
He understands Spanish better than he can speak it, but he’s working on that. 
Listen to Devon and myself discussing everything about living in Puerto Vallarta.

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Join our hosts Al Salas and his husband Carlos Torres.
 Al and Carlos have been together since 2002. They retired from our respective careers in DC in late summer 2016 and initially moved to a small, mid-Atlantic shore town, Lewes, Delaware, where we had been weekenders for about two decades. After wintering for 6 weeks in Spain in 2018, they decided to investigate moving there. To that end, in 2019, they took two, 3-month “reconnaissance” visits — the first during winter, the second in summer — to decide whether and where to move. They fell in love with several coastal cities and towns between — and including –Valencia and Malaga but ultimately decided to settle in Alicante. They sold their Delaware home in 2019 and moved here in mid-February of 2020.
Sit back and relax and listen to what Alicante, Spain is all about!

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Find out what life is like in Puebla, Mexico. David Kirby answers questions regarding the cost of living, climate, healthcare, crime and safety, cuisine, and visa requirements. 
David currently maintains residences in New York City, Hudson Valley, NY, and Puebla, Mexico.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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 During his career, he lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area and also worked in San Diego, CA for 17+ years.  He met his husband in San Diego.  They have been together for 25 years and married since 2013.

They bought their home in Spain in January 2017.  He is a Spanish resident and lives here full-time.

Steve tells the audience what it's like to live in Malaga, Spain.  He covers topics such as the cost of living, healthcare, climate, transportation, safety, cuisine, and more!

Join us for an interesting discussion of Malaga!

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Brian Longstreth is a moderator of our popular Facebook community called Where Do Gays Retire? 
Brian is a rare native Floridian, born in Bradenton in 1961. He moved to Tampa in 1983 and found a home in St. Petersburg in 1984. His early career in restaurant and retail lead to him becoming a Realtor in 1992 and getting very involved in the neighborhoods of St. Petersburg. He founded Your Neighborhood Realty in 1999. Brian was instrumental in the resurgence of the Grand Central District, Historic Kenwood, and Central Oak Park neighborhoods. This led to becoming very involved in city, county, and state politics, supporting LGBTQ+ friendly politicians. In 2008 Brian converted an apartment building to GayStPete House B&B, changing the name to Casa Del Merman in 2021 and expanding to a 2nd location in Montanita Ecuador. 
Brian talks about his hotel in Montanita, Ecuador, and what is like to live there as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Porto, Portuguese Oporto, city and port, northern Portugal. The city lies along the Douro River, 2 miles (3 km) from the river’s mouth on the Atlantic Ocean and 175 miles (280 km) north of Lisbon. World-famous for its port wine, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and is the commercial and industrial center of the zone north of the Mondego River. The historic center of Porto was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.

Joe and Sal met in Chicago in 2005, Joe is originally from Illinois, and Sal was born and raised in Mexico City. 

Prior to their meeting, Joe lived in Chicago for over 15 years and Sal lived there for over 4 years. In 2014 they left Chicago and since then, they have lived in Phoenix, AZ; Albuquerque, NM; and Houston, TX. 

Tired of the corporate BS and bureaucracy they decided to take a leap of faith and aim for early retirement in Europe. This became a reality in November of 2020 when they packed a few suitcases and embarked in search of a new life in Portugal with their 2 adorable Labrador retrievers Gaby and Uriel. 

In 2021 they cemented their immigrant commitment by acquiring a small condo in Porto, and since then they have been welcomed in their adoptive city free of stress or judgment, enjoying life, local wines, cheeses, food, as well as wonderful hospitality, and hundreds of years of culture and history that this beautiful country has to offer. 

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Kevin was born and raised in a small town in Upstate New York around 40 miles outside Syracuse. Like many Americans, Kevin is the grandson of European Immigrants. (Italian on his mother’s side/Irish on his dad's side) He attended college at the State University of New York in Geneseo (near Rochester) and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. During his junior year, Kevin applied to participate in one of the "junior year abroad" programs offered through the SUNY system. Kevin chose the junior year abroad program at the University of Seville which is really where Kevin´s love affair with Spain began. 

After returning to the US to finish his degree he very soon after graduation, headed out west to San Francisco where he started his career in Human Resources and worked for several years in SF as well as nearby Silicon Valley primarily in the hi-tech sector companies. When offered a very attractive role with Microsoft based in Washington DC, Kevin moved back east and began a 10- year career with Microsoft and was offered future roles based in Puerto Rico, London, Copenhagen, and Stockholm. While based in Europe, Kevin had HR responsibility for 18 countries within the European Union (including Spain) which allowed him to travel to countries he had only dreamed of when he was growing up as a little boy in rural Upstate New York.

In 2018 while based in London his 24-year relationship with his partner ended (very amicably) so Kevin was suddenly faced with having to completely re-think his retirement plans and strategy. With daily direct flights from London to Granada where Kevin has good friends (native Spaniards) who live there Kevin became more and more enamored with the area as he went for long weekend visits and eventually bought a home about 45 miles east of Granada in a small town of around 18,000 people called Alcala la Real where he currently calls " home".

Kevin enjoys studying languages, foreign cinema, wine, cooking, and gardening and is passionate about learning history and historical architecture.

Alcala la Real

City in Spain.

Quick facts

Alcalá la Real is a city in the province of Jaén, Spain. According to the 2006 census, the city has a population of 22,129 inhabitants. Wikipedia

Elevation: 3,012′

Area: 100.9 mi²

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Brent Hartinger and Michael Jensen are a longtime couple who are both also writers. Brent is a screenwriter and novelist who wrote the gay teen classic, Geography Club, and Michael is a novelist and editor who co-founded the gay entertainment website After Elton, which was later sold to Viacom. In 2016, the night Donald Trump was elected, Brent and Michael decided to sell their house and travel the world. They left home in 2017, and have since lived for at least a month in twenty different countries, and visited many more. They chronicle their weird and wonderful "digital nomad" lifestyle in their Substack newsletter, Brent and Michael Are Going Places. But at the same time, as they visit all these places, they're thinking about where they eventually might want to settle down. Problem is, the more places they visit, the more complicated the decision becomes.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Phoenix is the capital of the southwestern U.S. state of Arizona. Known for its year-round sun and warm temperatures, it anchors a sprawling, multicity metropolitan area known as the Valley of the Sun. It's known for high-end spa resorts, Jack Nicklaus–designed golf courses, and vibrant nightclubs. Other highlights include the Desert Botanical Garden, displaying cacti and numerous native plants. 

Elevation: 1,086′

Population: 1.658 million (2020)

Jose is a lot of things, but first and foremost, he’s a leader. Having worked in nearly all levels of the financial industry beginning in 2002 until presently working at Old Republic Title Agency as a Business Development Manager. Jose has been a servant leader to his customers and clients through the core values of customer service, leadership, and team building.

Jose first came to the valley in 2000. After attending Arizona Western College, he learned the value of customer service first by becoming a bank teller, then climbing the ladder by making his mark in every area he touches. Jose has built an impressive career even if you only base that on the smiles on his client’s faces. He’ll tell you- “That moment when I find just the right solution for a client’s needs, and you see the weight lift from their face, that moment is gold for me.” 

Leadership is in Jose’s DNA. He generously gives his skills and time to community organizations like The Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber of Commerce where he volunteers, PHX Pride, One n Ten, Aunt Rita’s, and other St. Vincent de Paul Hunger causes, and many, many others. His active community involvement only underlines his belief in team-building.

Jose currently lives in Encanto Palmcroft with my partner of 16 years and his family of three including their Shih Tzu. If you’re ever in need of a restaurant recommendation, Jose is a total “foodie” and is always ready to talk about some amazing new place he just tried or his plans for an upcoming culinary adventure.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Dave Hughes is a leading authority on retirement lifestyle planning. He has written over 100 articles about retirement lifestyle planning for his website, RetireFabulously.com, and has published three books: Design Your Dream Retirement, Smooth Sailing into Retirement, and The Quest for Retirement Utopia.

From 2016-2017, Dave was a regular contributor to U.S. News’ On Retirement blog. In 2017, RetireFabulously.com received the Best Senior Living Award from SeniorHomes.com as one of the top retirement blogs, by both reader polling and judge’s selection. Dave was named one of NextAvenue.org’s Top 50 Influencers in Aging for 2017.

Following a successful 34-year career as a software engineer, trainer, course developer, and manager, Dave accepted an early retirement package and retired at age 56. 

During the final phase of his working career, Dave searched the Internet for information about what life in retirement is really like. He discovered that at least 95% of all the retirement-related information was focused on the financial aspects of retirement. Relatively little was being written about how to live a happy, fulfilling life during retirement, and of that, practically nothing was being written from an LGBT perspective. 

Dave created RetireFabulously.com to fill that void.

Dave is an accomplished public speaker and workshop leader. He was active in Toastmasters International for over eight years and has earned Distinguished Toastmaster, that organization’s highest honor. Dave offers a fun and engaging workshop, also called Retire Fabulously!, that brings to life many of the key messages that he presents on his website and in his books.

In addition to his books about retirement lifestyle planning, Dave writes gay fiction. He has released two novels, Maybe Next Year and Instant Adult, with more on the way.

Dave is a jazz musician who plays trombone, electric bass, and steel pan. Dave resides near Phoenix, Arizona with his husband Jeff and their dog Maynard.

Email: authordavehughes@gmail.com

Websites: www.RetireFabulously.com and www.AuthorDaveHughes.com

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Robyn Meltzer is a Human Resources Executive with extensive experience in diversified businesses and cultures. Her expertise is in the areas of people strategies, talent management, organization assessments, facilitation, curriculum development, and career coaching. She currently has her own practice providing Human Resource consultations and training to all levels of employees.

Prior to starting her own business, she served as Vice President, of Talent for ARYZTA and Vice President, of Human Resources for Otis Spunkmeyer. Earlier in her career, she held leadership roles for Genentech, Inc., Lucas Digital, and Levi Strauss.  

She received a graduate degree in Organizational Development at the University of San Francisco as well as her Bachelor of Science degree from Utica College of Syracuse University. 

She is currently a professor at the College of the Desert  Partnership and Community Education (PaCE)program instructing on Human Resources best practices.

She has served on the Boards of the California Association of Student Councils and Inroads. She currently is on the Palm Springs Library Foundation Board.

Susan Brennan has been a practicing Chiropractor and running her own business for over 30 years. Currently, she is retired and living the dream in Palm Springs, Ca.

 Her original degrees were in English and a Master’s in Psychology. She graduated from the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic.  She has taught ages 3 thru adults.  She wrote a course called Multiple Level Approach to Musculoskeletal Problems.  She taught in Holland/ Sweden and Australia.  These experiences convinced me that learning needs to be hands-on and interactive.

She has mentored other people wanting to learn some of the techniques that she used.  This background will hopefully help me develop an educational program that is fun, effective, and experiential learning.   

Palm Springs

City in California

Quick facts

Palm Springs, a city in the Sonoran Desert of southern California, is known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas. It's also noted for its many fine examples of midcentury-modern architecture. Its core shopping district along Palm Canyon Drive features vintage boutiques, interior design shops, and restaurants. The surrounding Coachella Valley offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. 

Elevation: 479′

Area: 94.68 mi²

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Randy Lapp is the Director of Corporate HR and Corporate Communications for Metals USA, which has its corporate headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Randy has lived in Wilton Manors and Oakland Park, (Fort Lauderdale area) since April 2013, after relocating from Chicago IL.  Fort Lauderdale continues to be an attractive place to live/work/retire, with a high quality of life. 

Aaron Burke is originally from Reno Nevada located right next to Lake Tahoe. He went to UNLV  (University of Las Vegas Nevada) where he studied business management and marketing. At the age of 24 after college, he moved to Boca Raton Florida to peruse his real estate career.  Soon to find out that sunny Wilton Manors ( Fort Lauderdale)  was the place to be. 20 years later he's a high-producing agent with Re/Max Experience Wilton Manors.
In his free time, he enjoys cycling, yoga, kayaking, and group fitness. Many hobbies include antique cars and landscaping!

Fort Lauderdale is a city on Florida's southeastern coast, known for its beaches and boating canals. The Strip is a promenade running along oceanside highway A1A. It's lined with upscale outdoor restaurants, bars, boutiques, and luxury hotels. Other attractions include the International Swimming Hall of Fame, with pools and a museum of memorabilia, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, featuring trails and a lagoon. 

Elevation: 9′

Population: 181,818 (2020)

Wilton Manors is a city in Broward County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 11,426. Wilton Manors is part of the Miami metropolitan area, which was home to 6,166,488 people at the 2020 census. 

Area: 1.97 mi²

Elevation: 9′ 

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Dan Kelley McBride and Timm McBride have been together since 2004. Timm says he met Dan at a dance in Portland OR, and they kept bumping into each other until they were BOTH single and available. They’ve been together ever since. For better and for worse.

While living in Portland, OR, they married in Victoria BC in 2005, because, as Dan says, “We had to do it in a CIVILIZED” country.”

In 2013 after many long discussions, they sold their home in Portland - their FAVORITE place to date in the Mid Century Fontaine Tower in NE Lloyd Center.

They made the BIG move to Palm Springs and thought, that after three home renovations, there were done. Enter COVID-19.

“It changed EVERYTHING” according to Timm. He was working in live theatre and thru COVID, was unemployed for 19 months. Dan was working in healthcare in Pain Management and the COVID scares and restrictions took their toll on him as well. Suddenly that dream of working to 70 and maxing out their Social Security payout didn’t seem worth it. 

In July 2021, after months of research and several false starts, they made their way to Portugal to see if it was something that was even worth pursuing. On landing in Lisbon, they were enamored by everything: the history, the architecture, the people, the kindness, the international population. It was heaven for them. After a week in Lisbon, they traveled to Porto for a week - and although both fell in love with it, the climate was just too close to what they left behind in Portland. The Algarve was also an option, but it was a little too nomadic and touristy - kind of like the Palm Springs they were thinking of leaving behind. 

As they sat in their chairs sipping an Aperol spritz in the Miradouro de San Pedro de Alacantra on their last day, Timm said “I don’t want to go home.” 

Over the years they have both always been on the same page when it came to big decisions like this. That was all Dan needed to hear, as he was sold as well.

Lisbon

City in Portugal.

Quick facts

Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city. From imposing São Jorge Castle, the view encompasses the old city’s pastel-colored buildings, Tagus Estuary and Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Nearby, the National Azulejo Museum displays 5 centuries of decorative ceramic tiles. Just outside Lisbon is a string of Atlantic beaches, from Cascais to Estoril. ― Google

Elevation: 6.562′

Area: 38.63 mi²

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Jim Nixon is the  Director of the St Pete Service Center and LGBTQ Liaison City of St. Petersburg, FL.

He serves dual roles as Director of the St Pete Service Center and LGBTQ Liaison. As Director of the St Pete Service Center, he is responsible for the daily operation and strategic implementation of the St Pete Service Center, which processes citizen requests for assistance with services and distributes them to the responsible departments. 

As an LGBTQ liaison, He has an accessible and friendly ear to the city's LGBTQ community and elevates LGBTQ-related concerns to the city executive and other city officials. He serves as a spokesperson for the Mayor's Office to the local LGBTQ demographic and a representative of LGBTQ interests to the leaders of the St. Petersburg government.

St. Petersburg is a city on Florida's gulf coast, part of the Tampa Bay area. It's known for its pleasant weather (hence its “Sunshine City” nickname), making it popular for golfing, boating, fishing, and beachgoing. Its waterfront parks host the Dali Museum, featuring surrealist works of art; the Museum of Fine Arts, with works ranging from ancient to contemporary; and Mahaffey Theater, home of the Florida Orchestra. ― Google

Elevation: 44′

Population: 264,001 (2020)

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Randy was a military brat, so he lived all over the world. He lived in the Philippines, Italy, Spain, Portugal, California, and Hawaii where his late father was from. Which means he had exposure to different countries and cultures all his life.

When they were living in Italy, Randy’s father went to culinary school and became a pastry chef. He worked independently and we continued to travel around the world.

After high school, he had no interest in cooking, so he went to college which led him to a career in Clinical Psychology. He tried working in the clinical field but hated it. So he went into a staff position in HR and created programs for learning/development and diversity programs until I retired in 2002.

Circa 1980’s he decided to go to SF Culinary school as a hobby during my down times. It was in his DNA. When he retired in 2002, he ran a cooking club that included cooking demos as well as bringing in other "cooks" and local Chefs to share family recipes and/or provide cooking demos.  He helped Chefs develop menus, took part in wine and food pairing events, wrote restaurant reviews, assisted in test kitchens creating recipes, and even catered a few weddings—all short-lived endeavors.
 
 His husband and he have been together 45 years and made it a point to travel at minimum once a year. Their philosophy was to travel to places while still young and able-bodied. So they went to places like Antarctica, walked safaris through Africa, and hiked the jungles of Indonesia and New Guinea.  But living part-time in Paris gives them an excellent opportunity to make short hops to Barcelona for the week-end, or Switzerland. In fact, they just returned from London, Barcelona, and Deauville. In the past month alone. 

When they retired in 2002, they found themselves living a routine life and decided in 2008 to move to Paris, part-time. Primarily so his husband can experience what I had and also learn another language. And, he turned my food knowledge into writing reviews of restaurants in Paris for people visiting. He has his own blog  www.parismissive.blogspot.com He makes no money from it, I just do it as a hobby. 
 
They have been splitting their time between Paris and CA going on for 15 years. He loves his lifestyle and is thankful every day. He would guess in about 10 years they'll settle down, but for now, they’ll continue doing what we do best. 

 Paris, France's capital, is a major European city and a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy, and culture. Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine. Beyond such landmarks as the Eiffel Tower and the 12th-century, Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, the city is known for its cafe culture and designer boutiques along the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. 

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Steve Cross was born and raised in Northern Ireland but knew from his early teens he would not stay there due to the oppression of the gay community at the time. 

He left to see the world on cruise ships in 1992 and discovered Puerto Vallarta by visiting the ports. In 2004 he left the ships and settled in Puerto Vallarta and began to sell real estate there. In 2008 he and his now-deceased husband decided to move to Ajijic in the Lake Chapala area of Mexico, where the climate is just about perfect year round. 

Originally he opened a bed and breakfast and combined that with real estate, but after the death of his husband, 5 years has focussed totally on real estate. 

Harold Watts was born and raised in San Diego CA.  In 1983, he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to attend Sonoma University.  During his years in San Francisco, he worked with companies such as Strouds Linens, Macy’s, and Williams-Sonoma.

In 1999, Harold made the decision to move to Palm Springs CA, and start his real estate career.

In 2004, he met his future husband, Jeff, and they have been together for 18 years and married for 8 years.

The decision to retire to Mexico had always been in the works, but COVID-19 sped up the process for Harold.  When the world was shutting down, he and Jeff decided to lock down in Ajijic Mexico, where they had a home.  And they never looked back.

A year later, Harold and Jeff purchased a building with 3 studio rooms and a restaurant.  They leased the restaurant space to the former owner and Harold renovated the 3 studio rooms for vacation rentals.  

When Harold is not working on his vacation rental business, he is involved with acting in the local theatre group and giving back to the community via local charities.

Ajijic/Lake Chapala, Mexico

City in Mexico.

Quick facts

Ajijic is a town about 4.8 kilometers west of the town of Chapala, part of the municipality, in the State of Jalisco, Mexico. It is situated on the north shore of Lake Chapala, surrounded by mountains. Ajijic enjoys a moderate climate year-round. The population of Ajijic was 11,439 as of the 2020 census. Wikipedia

Population: 11,439

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Andrew Rudin was born and raised in the suburbs of Jacksonville, Florida.  He moved to Tallahassee in 1998 to attend Florida State University and graduated with a degree in International Relations & Geography.  Soon after he landed a job creating maps for the State of Florida’s Geological Survey to help protect the state’s aquifers. 

In 2003, after 5 years in quaint Tallahassee, Andrew was invited on a random road trip to Austin, Texas.  One year later he decided to pack what he could into his car and move there. 18 years later he still lives there, working in the field of geography as a Data Architect for the City of Austin.

Since 2004, he’s seen the city go through many growth spurts to become the place it is today. When he’s not toiling away in front of a computer or giving cuddles to his Italian Greyhound, Felix, Andrew enjoys venturing downtown to Austin’s nightlife, day trips to the Texas Hill Country, and finding excuses to travel abroad.   

Austin is the state capital of Texas, an inland city bordering the Hill Country region. Home to the University of Texas flagship campus, Austin is known for its eclectic live-music scene centered around country, blues and rock. Its many parks and lakes are popular for hiking, biking, swimming and boating. South of the city, Formula One's Circuit of the Americas raceway has hosted the United States Grand Prix.

Elevation: 489′

Population: 965,872 (2020)

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Colin's journey from the big cities and gay communities of Vancouver and Toronto started when he attended a gay group adventure tour in Hawaii.  The experience was life-changing and he knew that he wanted his current path of a career in advertising and marketing to take a drastic change. 

This quest led him to discover the remote area of the Southern Caribbean of Costa Rica, where he bought a piece of beachfront land and opened a B&B starting with 1 room in 2006.  Today, they have 25 rooms, with a restaurant, tour company, hair salon, and supermarket all combined with over 50 employees.  

This all started when he was in his early 40s and now at 61, he wants to retire.  He will sell his hotel, and it is his plan to stay in Costa Rica and focus on a new concept geared to retiring gay men 50 plus.    

He feels, that while places like Costa Rica are not for everyone, they have a large appeal for those still looking for a sense of adventure and community in their life.  

Stay tuned for CR’s first residential country club, “Club HEASA”

Costa Rica is a rugged, rainforested Central American country with coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific. Though its capital, San Jose, is home to cultural institutions like the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, Costa Rica is known for its beaches, volcanoes, and biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of its area is made up of protected jungle, teeming with wildlife including spider monkeys and quetzal birds. 

Capital: San José

Currency: Costa Rican colón

Population: 5.139 million (2021) World Bank

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They wanted a change of lifestyle.  They were living in the SF Bay Area and were both tired of the high cost of living, the lack of vacation time and not being able to shake the feeling that they simply could not afford to retire there.  He is Italian by birth so at first they wanted to move to Italy but they decided not to in order to give them both a new experience.  They chose Spain because of its weather and infrastructure.  They did an exploratory trip to Barcelona and liked it but didn't fall in love with it.  They did fall in love with Sitges.   When quarantine came they took the opportunity to move to Sitges.  There were several deciding factors, being on the beach, in a smaller town, with a vibrant gay and food scene.  Sitges offered them the more tranquil life they were looking for.

Leo is an Italian citizen so they have the right to live and work in Spain.  For Leo, the immigration process was easy, it took less than 10 minutes but for Bill, his partner, it took over 6 months.  

Sitges

Quick facts

Sitges is a coastal town in Spain's Catalonia region, southwest of Barcelona, backed by the mountainous Parc Natural del Garraf. It's known for its Mediterranean beaches and seafront promenade lined with grand mansions. The compact old town and surrounding streets are filled with shops, restaurants, and many gay bars and nightclubs. The Maricel Museum and Cau Ferrat Museum showcase Catalan and other Spanish art. 

Area: 16.91 mi²

Population: 28,969 (2018) Instituto Nacional de Estadística

Province: Barcelona

Mayor:

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Reid Martin was born and raised in Woodland Hills, California, a suburb of Los Angeles located in the San Fernando Valley.  After graduating from California State University, Northridge with a B.A. in Radio, Television, & Film, Reid got his start in the entertainment industry working as an apprentice editor on the Tom Hanks comedy, Bachelor Party. For the next several years, he worked as an assistant editor and sound editor on a dozen or so feature films before landing a job in motion picture advertising cutting and producing movie trailers and television spots for more than 200 films, including Unforgiven, Batman Forever, As Good As It Gets, The Bodyguard, Interview With The Vampire and The Birdcage. 

In addition to his award-winning work on movie trailers, Reid helped create advertising campaigns for many global brands such as Mcdonald's, Burger King, Quaker Oats, and Volkswagen. He was a professional voice actor for more than a decade. His voice has been featured on numerous radio and television commercials. 

After a 25-year career as a writer, editor, and producer, Reid and his partner Julian sold their house, put everything into storage, and traveled the world for almost two years. Upon returning to the US, the couple decided to reinvent themselves professionally and, together, embarked on a successful career buying and selling commercial real estate, specializing in multifamily income properties in Las Vegas and southern Nevada. 

Over the years, Reid and Julian have lived in Palm Springs as well as Santiago, Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Mexico City, Mexico. The now-married couple just celebrated their 40th anniversary and are currently semi-retired and living with their two Cairn Terriers, Tater & Taffy, in beautiful and vibrant Barcelona, Spain. 

Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. The fantastical Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city. Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró feature modern art by their namesakes. City history museum MUHBA includes several Roman archaeological sites.

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Ric Irick first realized his dream to travel the world as a 19-year-old Navy enlistee. 

After serving the country, he sought employment in the travel industry. For nearly 10 years he worked with Pan American World Airways in the Reservations department which offered a flexible schedule and allowed completion of a BA and then an MBA, part-time, at George Washington University.

After Pan Am's demise, Ric thought he was "done" with the travel industry and was employed with a Fortune 500 company in Marketing/Sales - until the company unceremoniously dropped its employee pension plan!  Then, he sought employment with an employer that still offered such programs: the U.S. government, from which he retired after 26 years of service.

Ric had hoped to retire abroad but rethought those plans at the advent of the covid scourge. His "Plan B" has been to return to sailing the seas which he has done nearly every month on cruise ships since his retirement in November 2021. Subsequently, he has spent 200 days abroad in his first year as a retiree - 95% on cruise ships, and plans to exceed that number in subsequent years!

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Toby de Lys is a native New Yorker, who after residing in various major countries around the world –along with his spouse decided that Colombia was the best nation in which to live in or the 21st Century. Graduate and post-graduate studies included Architecture (at the Princeton School of Architecture), Theoretical Physics, Bio-Engineering, Art, Art History, Music, Music History, Philosophy, and Philology as he has native-level fluency in several languages acquired during his early academia in Switzerland. 

De Lys also identified Bogota as the most promising emerging market capital city to found his new business endeavors, principally the investment firm; Colombia Investing. In his CEO role, de Lys spearheads business development strategies and investment advisory for Colombia Investing to present local and international investors with innovative emerging market vectors and the high-yield opportunities that exist in Colombia.

De Lys and his husband Tigre Haller were married in Colombia and wrote the first bilingual guidebook about Bogota and its region; Bogota! A Bilingual Guide to the Enchanted City, published by Penguin-Random House and released internationally in June 2014. In Bogota, De Lys and Haller have become integral to the social and cultural fabric of the city and of Colombia. Along with his husband, de Lys founded the Bogota Anglo Theater; a professional theater company that also flourished into filmmaking ventures (having co-produced/written and directed five films; two of which premiered in Cannes, France). Currently, de Lys is endeavoring to create the first housing community for retiring expats in Colombia with a Canadian business partner. In his spare time; de Lys will also soon be creating the Colombian Bach Society.

Bogotá is Colombia’s sprawling, high-altitude capital. La Candelaria, its cobblestoned center, features colonial-era landmarks like the neoclassical performance hall Teatro Colón and the 17th-century Iglesia de San Francisco. It's also home to popular museums including the Museo Botero, showcasing Fernando Botero's art, and the Museo del Oro, displaying pre-Columbian gold pieces. 

Elevation: 8,661′

Area: 685 mi

Population: 7.181 million (2018)

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Randall Wilcox (Randy) holds a degree in secondary education from Heidelberg University and an MLS degree from Kent State University. In his career as a professional law librarian, he worked in positions in academic law firms, and corporate law libraries. 

Born and raised in Ohio, he moved to the east coast with his now-husband in 1997. Retired in January 2014, he served as vice president and president of the community beach association on the Jersey Shore where he and his husband lived until they left the US for Portugal last August 30th. 

Randy's husband, Richard Costabile, whom he met in Cleveland in 1992, is a retired professional stage manager, whose career took him to numerous regional theaters and also to Broadway. The couple shares a love of live theater, cooking, fixing up their new home, and travel, and are especially excited to now be living in Europe where travel is easy and inexpensive.

Richard Costabile

Richard Costabile (Rich) was born in the Bronx and over the years lived in four of the five boroughs of NYC. He graduated from Regis High School in Manhattan, Fordham College in the Bronx, and the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater in Manhattan. 

His careers have included delivery boy for the NY Post, Record Salesman for The Spinning Disc, Math tutor, a Math teacher for Up With People HS, Computer Programmer/Systems Analyst for IBM in Westchester, NY, Freelance Actor, Freelance Stage Manager (38 years) and teaching Stage Management at SUNY Purchase and Rutgers University. 

He's most proud of his 17-year association with Hal Holbrook’s "Mark Twain Tonight!" In the course of his career, he worked on plays and musicals on Broadway, touring shows, off-Broadway, in regional theaters all over the country, "Lord of the Rings in Concert," and many other live events and celebrations. 

Currently, he is co-Secretary of the newly established Stage Managers’ Association Foundation, which aims to underwrite education, training, and scholarships that enhance and develop stage management skills for students and professionals working in the business, as well as projects meant to contribute to the understanding of the stage manager’s role. 

Rich retired in September 2017, very shortly after Mr. Holbrook announced his own retirement at the age of 92! He and his husband Randy have been inveterate travelers, spending as much time “on the road” as possible, through Rich’s jobs as well as on independent adventures. They did much research, including a 3-month scouting trip, before they relocated full-time to the Algarve in Portugal at the end of August 2022.
 
Tavira (The Algarve)
Town in Portugal.
Quick facts
Tavira is a small city on Portugal’s Algarve coast. It straddles the Gilão River, which reaches the sea through the inlets and lagoons of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Tavira Island has a long, sandy beach, plus salt pans that attract flamingos, spoonbills, and other wading birds. In the center, medieval Tavira Castle has city views. The Santa María do Castelo Church houses the tombs of 7 knights killed by the Moors. 

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Richard A. Ceriello was a Speech/Language Pathologist from 1976 to 2016.  Now an innkeeper at a historic BnB.  He was raised in NYC, born in Brooklyn, and raised in Queens.  Education: Mercy College, in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y; graduate school at Long Island University, C. W. Post College, internship at North Shore University Hospital, a teaching hospital of Cornell University.  

He is living in Jacksonville, Florida since 1976.  Currently living in a restored Victorian farmhouse, built in 1878.  Founder of the AIDS Memorial Project of NE Florida. Avid art collector, bon vivant, and an all-around great guy.  

Jacksonville is a city located on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida, the most populous city proper in the state. It is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States as of 2020. It is the seat of Duval County, with which the city government consolidated in 1968. 

Area: 875 mi²

Elevation: 16′

Population: 954,614 (2021)

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Jim was born and raised in Geneva, New York.  After graduating from college, he moved to Washington DC where he worked with the Federal Government as an architect.  He took early retirement from the Department of Justice in 2003. When his retirement was approved, he sent a message to the staff that said “There is a rumor going around that I’m retiring. I want you all to know that it’s true and tomorrow is my last day.” 

Rod was born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina.  After graduating from college, he moved to Washington DC, and worked as a member of The United States Army Band, retiring from the Army in 1993.  He continued working as a school band director and finally retired in 2016.

They have been together for nearly 43 years after meeting in Washington DC in 1980. They quickly decided that the relationship was going to be something special and two months after meeting they decided that their cats should meet each other too and they should merge households. Jim still quips that Rod was the “one night stand who never went home.” They were married in Skaneateles New York in 2011. Upon Jim’s retirement and after 30 years in Washington DC, they moved to Placitas, New Mexico, where Jim used his architectural skills to design their spectacular retirement home in the desert.    

While enjoying New Mexico, in time they began to realize just how much they missed the urban life that they knew from their years in DC.  Also, after many years of discussing a possible move to a more urban environment in Italy, they made the decision to move to Lucca.  Five years later they are solidly settled into life in Italy.

Lucca

City in Tuscany, Italy

Quick facts

Lucca is a city and comune in Tuscany, Central Italy, on the Serchio River, in a fertile plain near the Ligurian Sea. The city has a population of about 89,000, while its province has a population of 383,957. Wikipedia

• County: Lucca
• Population: 89,346
• Altitude: 19 m

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Kevin Donegan grew up in rural Montana and entered the Peace Corps after finishing graduate school in 1987, where he caught the "travel bug."   

Kevin served in Belize from 1987 to 1989 and then returned to the US and relocated to Portland, Oregon.   He initially worked as a family counselor for a non-profit with runaway and homeless adolescents for a little over a year.   In 1990, he took a position at Reed College where he started as the assistant director of residence life, and moved up to the position of director of residence life. Then his last two years at Reed were spent as the director of community safety.   Kevin left Reed College in 2000 and returned to the non-profit he worked at right after leaving the Peace Corps to take over as the director of runaway and homeless youth programs where he oversaw homeless shelters, transitional living, and street outreach programs, a program for sex-trafficked girls along with a wide array of other social service programs for adolescents at-risk.  

Kevin served on multiple national advisory boards for the federal government specific to services for homeless adolescents.    In 2015, Kevin retired at 55 and started splitting his time between his homes in Portland, Oregon, and Merida, Mexico.  
Merida, Mexico

Introduction:
Merida, Mexico is a vibrant and colorful city located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. In this episode, we’ll explore the reasons why Merida is the perfect destination for gay retirees and the lifestyle they can expect.

Location:
Merida is located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, close to popular tourist destinations such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It is the capital city of the state of Yucatan and is easily accessible by plane, with regular flights from major cities in the US and Mexico.

Climate:
Merida has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season runs from June to October, but the rest of the year is sunny and dry.

Lifestyle:
Merida is a friendly and welcoming city, with a thriving LGBTQ+ community. The city is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and performance spaces.

Cost of Living:
Merida is an affordable destination, with a lower cost of living compared to many cities in the US and Europe. Housing, food, and other necessities are much less expensive than in North America, making it a budget-friendly option for retirees.

Healthcare:
Merida is home to many quality healthcare facilities, including both public and private hospitals. The cost of healthcare is also much lower in Mexico compared to other countries, making it a great option for retirees who are looking for affordable health services.

Conclusion:
Merida, Mexico is a vibrant and colorful city that is perfect for LGBTQ+ retirees looking for a warm and welcoming community in a budget-friendly destination. With a rich cultural heritage, a thriving arts scene, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community, 

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From personal interest to the profession – He relocated to the Tucson Arizona area with his husband during the summer of 2014. I know you’re thinking – “you moved during the summer?” He did and never looked back. They both grew up in southeast Pennsylvania and had a timeline in mind to pick up and move even though they knew no one in Tucson. Jeff always had a personal interest in real estate and after retiring in 2016, he obtained his Realtor license and joined Long Realty, the largest brokerage in southern Arizona and part of the Berkshire Hathaway network.

His background – He spent 30 years with VF Corporation, entirely in human resources. He has an undergraduate degree in fine arts and a master’s in business administration from state and private universities in Pennsylvania. His husband Bob and himself find Tucson to be an amazing city with wonderful people, diversity, a University town, a city of gastronomy, culture, hiking, cycling, golfing, mountains everywhere, and a large gay community. He has volunteered most of his adult life and has found plenty of organizations to support in their local community.

He never tires of talking about Tucson and all it has to offer. Feel free to visit his website at jeffs.longrealty.com or email him directly at jeffs@longrealty.com if he can answer questions about their experiences.

Tucson is a city in and the county seat of Pima County, Arizona, United States, and is home to the University of Arizona. 

Elevation: 2,389′

Population: 1,014,000(2023)

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Brian and Terry have been together for over 26 years. They officially married on their 9-year anniversary in Canada, before it was broadly legal in the US. 

They grew up in the same town in a suburb of Dayton, Ohio. They met at a data/technology company where they moved up in the ranks and spent most of their careers. Their shared retirement goal since almost the beginning of their relationship was to find and move to a place with sunny weather year-round and near the ocean. They never took Their eyes off of that goal. About 13 years ago they vacationed in Cabo and fell in love with the place. They have had two homes constructed there. 

In 2018 They moved to Cabo full-time, bringing their dogs and Terry’s mom with them. Terry’s mom had been living with them for many years. Part of the reason for relocating at that time was that her advanced age and mobility were becoming very limited. The longer they waited, the more complex the move and transition would be. Upon moving to Cabo, Terry retired and Brian transitioned into a consulting role in the data/technology industry where he is home based in Cabo.


Title: Where Do Gays Retire Podcast - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Guests: Terry Henning and Brian Worley

Introduction:
Welcome to Where Do Gays Retire, the podcast where we explore the best places for LGBTQ+ people to retire. In this episode, we'll be talking about Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, a popular destination for retirement among the LGBTQ+ community. Our guests today are Terry Henning and Brian Worley, two expats who retired in Cabo San Lucas and have firsthand experience living in this beautiful city.

Interview:
Terry and Brian share their story of why they chose to retire in Cabo San Lucas, including the warm weather, affordable cost of living, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community. They discuss the welcoming and accepting culture of Cabo San Lucas, and how it has become a popular destination for LGBTQ+ tourists and expats alike.

Terry and Brian highlight some of the best neighborhoods and areas to live in Cabo San Lucas, including the historic downtown area, the Marina, and the Pedregal neighborhood. They also discuss the local housing market, which offers a variety of options, from apartments to villas and homes.

The conversation turns to the amenities and activities available in Cabo San Lucas, such as world-class golf courses, deep-sea fishing, and beautiful beaches. Terry and Brian also discuss the local restaurants and nightlife, which cater to the LGBTQ+ community and offer a fun and vibrant social scene.

Terry and Brian share their tips for anyone considering retiring in Cabo San Lucas, including learning some Spanish, understanding the local culture, and getting involved in the local community. They also offer advice on navigating the healthcare system, which is affordable and of high quality in Mexico.

As we wrap up our conversation, Terry and Brian share their favorite things about living in Cabo San Lucas, including the warm weather, friendly people, and beautiful natural surroundings. They encourage anyone considering retirement in Mexico to give Cabo San Luc

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Ozark Diner and Bed & Breakfast 
Albert Sotelo and 
Chef Kevin W. Mize
Owner/Operators 

Albert, 59 years old, and Kevin, 56 years old, have been together for 19 years and married for 12 years.  They moved to Baguio City, Philippines eight years ago as a prelude to retirement.  Albert was a former Operations Specialist with American Airlines in Dallas, while Kevin was a former Clinical Research Coordinator for Alcon Industries in Fort Worth.  

Albert also was a former Subway Sandwiches franchisee in Virginia, while Kevin was a former chef in Little Rock where they initially met.  It was this foodie-like-mindedness that made them consider opening a Southern Cuisine diner and Bed and Breakfast.

Their Ozark Diner was recently included in the prestigious list of Best Restaurants in The Philippines of 2022.  They are also Airbnb Superhost since 2017.   While their business currently caters to domestic tourists, Albert is currently a Tourism Council Board Member promoting Retirement Tourism in their city.

Baguio City, Philippines is a popular destination for retirees, including the LGBTQ+ community, due to its cool climate, affordable cost of living, and friendly local people. 

1. Location: Baguio City is located in the Cordillera region of the northern Philippines and is known as the "City of Pines".
2. Climate: Baguio City has a cool and temperate climate, making it an ideal location for retirees who are looking for a comfortable and relaxing lifestyle.
3. Cost of Living: Baguio City is known for its affordable cost of living, with a wide range of housing options and low living expenses. This makes it an ideal location for retirees who are looking to stretch their retirement savings.
4. Cultural Attractions: Baguio City is rich in cultural attractions and is home to a vibrant arts scene. Some popular attractions include the Tam-Awan Village, the BenCab Museum, and the Baguio Arts Guild Gallery.
5. Local Community: Baguio City has a welcoming and friendly local community, which makes it a great place for retirees to build new relationships and socialize. There is also a vibrant LGBTQ+ community in the city.
6. Health Care: Baguio City has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical services.
7. Food Scene: Baguio City has a diverse food scene, with a wide range of local and international cuisine options available. Some popular local dishes include pinikpikan and longganisa.
8. Outdoor Activities: Baguio City is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers plenty of outdoor activities for retirees to enjoy, such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
9. Safety: Baguio City is considered a safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly local community.

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Daniel Rainey is a retired pharmacist. He is 53 years old and has been living in Italy since his retirement in February 2022. He graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor's degree in science in 1991, and then went on to receive a Doctorate in Pharmacy from Mercer school of pharmacy four years later. 

During his 30 years as a pharmacist, he worked in both retail and hospital settings and spent his last 5 years managing an HIV specialty pharmacy at Walgreens. Now that he is retired, He is excited to have more time to pursue his passions for adventure and travel. He is particularly looking forward to restarting his love for skiing and kitesurfing.

Rovigo is a city located in the Northern part of Italy, in the Veneto region. It has a population of around 50,000 people.

Introduction:

• A brief history of Rovigo
• Population and geographical location

Lifestyle:

• Climate and weather
• Local cuisine and culinary specialties
• Cultural events and festivals
• Leisure activities (e.g. parks, museums, theaters)
• Gay scene and community in Rovigo

Cost of living:

• Housing prices and options
• The average cost of food, transportation, and healthcare

Accessibility:

• Proximity to airports and major cities
• Public transportation options
• Driving conditions

Safety:

• Crime rates and safety measures

Final Thoughts:

• Pros and cons of retiring in Rovigo
• Overall impression and recommendation for gay retirees

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Perry was born and raised in a small town in Iowa. According to his dad, the population was 600, if you count the dogs and cats. 

He received two degrees (Pharmacy and Biology) from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Upon graduation, he moved to Dallas, to begin his career as a Pharmacist. After 3 years, he moved He earned a Master’s Degree MAS in Information Technology Management. In 1999, he met a man and moved in with him in Washington DC.
 
 In January 2005, they came to a conference in Santa Fe.  They fell in love with the energy and flavor and kindness of the people in Santa Fe. They had decided that they should buy a vacation house and retire someday in Santa Fe. 

In 2008 they bought a house on the west edge of Santa Fe. In 2011 his husband’s job changed and they decided to sell their house in DC and move. They landed in Santa Fe full-time in January 2012. 

They enjoy food and drinks, restaurants, and all the amazing art and cultures of Santa Fe.

Introduction:

Welcome to another episode of Where Do Gays Retire! Today, we will be exploring the beautiful city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Santa Fe is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, making it a popular destination for retirees and travelers alike.

History:

Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States, founded in 1610. It has a rich history, having been ruled by Spanish, Mexican, and American governments, each leaving its mark on the city's architecture and culture. The city is also known for being a center of Native American culture, with many Pueblo Indian tribes still residing in the area.

Arts and Culture:

Santa Fe is a city of art and creativity, with a thriving art scene that includes galleries, museums, and performing arts centers. The city is home to the famous Lensic Performing Arts Center, as well as the Santa Fe Opera and the New Mexico Museum of Art. The city also hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Santa Fe Indian Market, the Spanish Market, and the Folk Art Market.

Outdoor Activities:

Santa Fe is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, and horseback riding. The city is also located near several national parks, including the Santa Fe National Forest, Bandelier National Monument, and the Pecos Wilderness.

Food and Drink:

Santa Fe is known for its delicious cuisine, with a wide range of dining options that include traditional New Mexican food, and Mexican, Italian, and contemporary American cuisine. The city is also home to many wineries and breweries, making it a great place for food and drink enthusiasts.

Lifestyle:

Santa Fe is a city that values community, relaxation, and a connection to nature. It has a small-town feel, with a friendly and welcoming community, and a relaxed pace of life. The city also has a thriving LGBTQ community, with many events and activities that celebrate diversity and inclusiveness.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Santa Fe is a beautiful and unique city that offers retirees a vibrant

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Richard Jasicki, 63 years young, he retired at the age of 62. Married to Charles Naldrett since it was legal to do so in 2014. They have been together for 22 years (that's about 122 in gay years lol).

He was born on a USAF base in the UK to an English mom from London and an American dad from Milwaukee, WI. At the ripe age of 6 months they moved to Madison, WI where his dad was stationed at the local USAF base. 

He sponsored his partner for a Green Card as soon as it was legal to marry. That took over 18 months and over $2k to get it done. He is happy  to compare the process he is going through now here in Spain as his husband is an Irish/UK citizen and now he is sponsoring Rich for immigration to Spain. 

Introduction:
Today, we're exploring Torremolinos, a vibrant and popular coastal town in the province of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and bustling gay scene, Torremolinos has been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers and retirees for many years. In this episode, we'll take a closer look at what makes Torremolinos such a great place to live and visit.

History:

Torremolinos has a rich history dating back to the Roman times. In the 20th century, it emerged as a popular holiday destination for travelers from Northern Europe, and by the 1970s, it had become one of the first destinations in Europe to embrace LGBTQ+ tourism. Since then, Torremolinos has continued to evolve, becoming a destination known for its lively gay scene, stunning beaches, and diverse cultural offerings.

Culture:

Torremolinos is a melting pot of different cultures, with a mix of Spanish, Andalusian, and international influences. The town is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to enjoy. There's also a thriving arts scene, with several galleries and cultural centers showcasing local and international works.

Gay Scene:

Torremolinos has a thriving gay scene, with several bars and clubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community. The town is also home to the annual Torremolinos Gay Pride celebration, which attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you're looking to party the night away or simply relax with a drink in a friendly, welcoming environment, Torremolinos has something for everyone.

Beaches:

One of the main draws of Torremolinos is its stunning beaches. The town is surrounded by several miles of sandy coastline, offering plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and other water sports. Some of the most popular beaches in Torremolinos include Playa del Bajondillo and Playa de la Carihuela.

Retirement:

For those looking to retire in Torremolinos, the town offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and a lively social scene. The cost of living in Torremolinos is relatively low compared to other areas of Europe, making it a great option for retirees on a budget. With its warm climate, stunning beaches, and thriving gay scene, Torremolinos is a top choice for LGBTQ+ retirees looking for a place to call home.

Conc

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Mark is originally from Birmingham, AL.  Mark moved to Atlanta in 1988 and has been here for 35 years.  Mark began his real estate career 22 years ago and has helped numerous buyers and sellers in the metro-Atlanta area.  Mark focuses his sales mostly in the inside perimeter area where a large percentage of the gay population lives.   Mark lives with his partner, Cruse, and have been together 25 years.  

Mark Camp - website is www.markcamp.com, email is mark@markcamp.com,  404-786-5400

Mark Camp - Associate Broker

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services of Georgia 

1163 West Peachtree Street, Suite 200

Atlanta, GA 30309

Show Notes:


Welcome to the Where Do Gays Retire podcast. Today, we're exploring Atlanta, Georgia - a city that offers a unique blend of Southern charm, urban sophistication, and a thriving LGBTQ community. Atlanta has long been considered a hub for the LGBTQ community in the South and is consistently ranked as one of the top cities for LGBTQ retirement. Let's dive into what makes Atlanta such an appealing destination for the LGBTQ community.

History of LGBTQ Community in Atlanta:
Atlanta has a rich history of LGBTQ activism and acceptance, dating back to the 1960s when the city was a hub for the civil rights movement. In the decades that followed, Atlanta has become a hub for LGBTQ culture, with a thriving nightlife scene, numerous LGBTQ organizations and events, and a strong community of LGBTQ residents.

Entertainment and Culture:
Atlanta is known for its diverse and vibrant arts and cultural scene, including the High Museum of Art, the Alliance Theatre, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The city also offers a thriving LGBTQ nightlife scene, with numerous gay bars and clubs, as well as annual events such as the Atlanta Pride Festival and the Atlanta Black Pride Festival.

Outdoor Activities:
Atlanta is home to a number of parks and outdoor spaces, including Piedmont Park, Centennial Olympic Park, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. These spaces offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking, as well as events and festivals throughout the year.

Dining and Shopping:
Atlanta is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of cuisine options, from Southern comfort food to international dishes. The city is also home to numerous shopping destinations, including the Lenox Square mall and the Westside Provisions District.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Atlanta, Georgia is a city that offers a unique blend of Southern charm, urban sophistication, and a thriving LGBTQ community. From its rich history of LGBTQ activism and acceptance, to its thriving arts and cultural scene, outdoor activities, and dining and shopping options, Atlanta is a top destination for LGBTQ retirees. Whether you're looking for a place to call home or just a city to visit, Atlanta is a must-see for the LGBTQ community.

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Tom Jewell and Bruce Woolverton met as college kids in 1975, then lived on Manhattan's upper west side from '77 to '84, when they moved to Seattle.  Bruce worked in the telecom industry initially, then in business development for startups.  Bruce always worked as a fundraiser in some capacity, at various nonprofits such as The Nature Conservancy and the Northwest AIDS Foundation in its early days. 

 Through luck and timing, they were able to buy a cottage on the water on Vashon Island (in 1989) and were early adopters of VRBO as a way to enjoy a wonderful place and have a bit of income to help pay for it.  They eventually bought a condo in Ketchum Idaho (Sun Valley ski resort town) as Bruce is a big skier; it was a great place that they loved, with a boost from rental income to make it possible.  That's how they came to buy the condo they are now living in Buenos Aires.  

Up until the pandemic and our retirement, they did very well with vacation rentals and were able to enjoy the place for a week or two most years.  Now they are spending October thru April here in Argentina, and May-September on Vashon Island.


·       Buenos Aires is known as the "gay capital" of South America, with a thriving LGBTQ+ community.

·       Same-sex marriage has been legal in Argentina since 2010, making it the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage.

·       Argentina also has laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

·       The annual Buenos Aires Pride Parade is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in South America, attracting thousands of participants and spectators.

·       The city has a vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and events catering to the community.

·       LGBTQ+ rights organizations in Buenos Aires include the Argentine Federation of LGBT Rights and the Buenos Aires LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

·       Buenos Aires is also home to several LGBTQ+ landmarks, such as the iconic Obelisk monument, which is often lit up in rainbow colors to celebrate Pride Month.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Scott and Dave met in May 1991 while Scott was at Mount Snow in Vermont training for a triathlon and Dave was directing the Mountain Bike School there. 

Scott was living in NYC at the time and Dave is from Vermont. Scott had an early career in marketing & advertising, was running a mail order catalog business and was an amateur competitive triathlete, Dave was a pro ski patroller at Mount Snow during the winter months and a pro mountain biker in the off-season. 

Previous to Mount Snow, Dave was a professional chef with much experience in the hospitality field.  

• Population: Brattleboro has a population of 12,046 people.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Brattleboro is higher than the national average but lower than the cost of living in other parts of Vermont.
• Real estate: The median home price in Brattleboro is $325,000.
• Climate: Brattleboro has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The average temperature in January is 22 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average in July is 74 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Geography: Brattleboro is located on the Connecticut River in the southern part of Vermont.
• The LGBTQ+ community: Brattleboro is a welcoming and inclusive community for LGBTQ+ people. There are many LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and organizations in Brattleboro, and the city has a strong sense of community.
• Crime and safety: Brattleboro is a safe and comfortable place to live. The crime rate in Brattleboro is low, and the city has a strong sense of community safety.

Here is some additional information about Brattleboro:

• Brattleboro is a popular tourist destination. The town is home to a number of art galleries, museums, and shops.
• Brattleboro is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The town is located near a number of hiking trails, biking trails, and swimming holes.
• Brattleboro is a great place to retire. The town is quiet and peaceful, and the cost of living is relatively low.
• Brattleboro is also a great place to raise a family. The town has a robust public school system, and there are a number of family-friendly activities and events.

 Further background:  

https://www.frogmeadow.com/more-info/about-ushistory/   

https://www.frogmeadow.com/gay-brattleboro-vt/ 

https://www.frogmeadow.com/rock-river-vermont/   

https://www.frogmeadow.com/more-info/recent-pressmedia/   

https://www.frogmeadow.com/community-partners/   

https://www.gayrealestate.com/news/usa/vermont/brattleboro/gay-realtor-brattleboro-vermont-a-vibrant-gay-arts-community.html 

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Frank Jump, a retired NYC technology teacher, is also the author and photographer of the Fading Ads of NYC published in 2011 by the History Press.  His book documents ghost signage through the lens of an artist living with HIV/AIDS. It has become a metaphor of survival for Jump since, like himself, many of these ads have long outlived their expected life span. 

Twenty-four of his images were exhibited at the NY Historical Society in NYC in 1998. In 1999, he launched the Fading Ad Campaign website and later a celebrated blog of the same name. A lifelong LGBTQ and AIDS activist, Jump married his partner Vincenzo, in 2004 in Toronto Canada, and later again in NYC in 2017. Jump and his husband have been living in Milton Delaware since 2016.

Quick Facts on Rehoboth Beach

• Rehoboth Beach is a popular coastal resort town located in Sussex County, Delaware, on the east coast of the United States.
• The town has a population of around 1,500 people, but during peak tourist season, that number can soar to over 25,000.
• Rehoboth Beach has a reputation as a gay-friendly destination and has been a popular vacation spot for the LGBTQ+ community since the 1940s.
• The town has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and there are several LGBTQ+ organizations, events, and businesses in the area.
• Rehoboth Beach has been named one of the best beach towns for retirees by several publications, including U.S. News & World Report and Forbes.
• The town has a low cost of living compared to other coastal retirement destinations, and Delaware does not have a sales tax, making it an attractive option for retirees on a budget.
• Rehoboth Beach has a mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from the low 30s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
• The town has a wide range of recreational activities available, including golfing, fishing, hiking, and biking, as well as a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
• Rehoboth Beach is located just a few hours' drive from major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., making it easy to visit friends and family or take advantage of urban amenities.

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Matthew Prutsman

Matthew worked in operations in various university libraries in Virginia and California from 2000 until 2022. Now he runs 2 Airbnbs in Guadalajara, Mexico with his husband. He was born and raised in rural Virginia, moved to California in 2006, and then to Mexico in 2020. He attended the University of Virginia where he received a degree in urban planning. 

Matthew currently lives in Guadalajara, Mexico with his husband of 7 years, 3 (or 4) dogs, 4 birds, various fish, and a turtle named Angela. He chose to live in Guadalajara for the quality of life, queer culture, and friendliness of people. He is an avid gardener, self-taught chef, and puzzle fanatic.

Adam Lopez

Adam was born in Los Ángeles, California, and studied fine arts at the San Francisco Art Institute. He lived many years in SF and NYC and returned to LA in his 30s where he met Matthew.  Adam worked in Hollywood for many years in production and sold handmade mid-century furniture online.  Currently, he runs an e-commerce shop where he sells Mexican handicrafts worldwide. Adam and Matthew formed an art collective in 2020 that brings art to local children of the community and they also hold art shows and cultural events in one of their Airbnbs.

Links to their Airbnb’s:
3 bedroom - https://abnb.me/I2XzFgGNwzb
4 bedroom - https://abnb.me/2i1BeSKNwzb

• Guadalajara is the capital city of the state of Jalisco in Mexico.
• With a population of over 1.5 million people, the metro is 5.5 million it is the second most populous city in Mexico.
• Guadalajara is known for its rich cultural heritage, including mariachi music, and tequila.
• The city is also home to several universities and has a thriving technology industry.
• Guadalajara has a warm, semi-arid climate with an average temperature of around 22°C (72°F) throughout the year.
• The city has a vibrant LGBT+ community, with several gay bars, clubs, and events taking place throughout the year.
• The annual Guadalajara Pride Parade takes place in June and attracts thousands of participants and visitors from all over Mexico and beyond.
• Guadalajara has been recognized as one of the most gay-friendly cities in Mexico, and the country as a whole is becoming increasingly accepting of LGBT+ people and their rights.

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Tom was born in 1961 in West Germany and spent his early formative years on the good side of the Iron Curtain. In 1969 his family moved to the USA where they spent six years in suburban New York and then relocated to southwestern New Hampshire. In 1991 he moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts in search of a more welcoming, more accepting setting and spent 28 happy years there as a real estate professional and home design consultant. He finally moved to Falmouth on Cape Cod in 2018 with his husband Billy to buy the Palmer House Inn, a 17-room bed and breakfast. 

They have been here ever since. Billy, a native of Jamaica came to the USA in 1975, spending his childhood and adolescence on Long Island, and moving to Virginia, and Florida in his professional life as a nurse and nursing home manager. Billy and Tom met in 2010 he joined Tom in Cambridge the same year. They spent the last five years renovating their Cape Cod Inn and running it together with Brody, their six-year-old Leonberger. As innkeepers, they have incorporated everything they previously learned to design a welcoming and tranquil environment for their guests, combining the laid-back lifestyle enjoyed by well-to-do people of the Gilded Age with traditional Cape Cod cottage garden grounds. 

They welcome both gay and straight guests, from singles looking for an escape to couples celebrating life together, to bridal couples looking to tie the knot on the Cape.

Thomas von Zabern

Palmer House Inn

81 Palmer Avenue

Falmouth, MA, 02540

https://www.palmerhouseinn.com/

508-548-1230 Main

617-817-4098 Cell

Tomvonz1@gmail.com

Falmouth is a town located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, USA. Here are some quick facts about Falmouth:

Population: According to the United States Census Bureau, as of 2020, the estimated population of Falmouth is 30,013.

Geography: Falmouth is located on the southwestern corner of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and is surrounded by water on three sides, with the Atlantic Ocean to the south and southwest, Buzzards Bay to the west, and Vineyard Sound to the east.

Climate: Falmouth has a climate with warm summers and cool winters. The average temperature in July is around 74°F, while the average temperature in January is around 33°F.

Cost of living: The cost of living in Falmouth is generally higher than the national average due to its desirable location on Cape Cod. Housing prices in particular are quite high, with a median home price of around $608,000.

Healthcare: Falmouth has several healthcare options, including Falmouth Hospital, which is part of the Cape Cod Healthcare system. The hospital has 95 beds and offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity care.

Crime and safety: Falmouth is generally considered a safe community, with a relatively low crime rate compared to other towns and cities in Massachusetts. However, like any community, there is still some crime, particularly theft and property crime.

LGBTQ community: Falmouth has a relatively active LGBTQ community, with several organizations and events ai

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Greg Casella grew up in Chicago and moved to San Jose, CA (Silicon Valley) when he was 25 years old.  Working in the Tech industry for a few years his dream was always to open a restaurant, having worked in restaurants growing up from the age of 13!

In 1992 he started an Off-Premise Catering business in Silicon Valley, the next best thing to having a restaurant.  He was actually on unemployment when he started the business with no capital, but built it into one of the largest LGBTQ Businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area by the time he sold it in 2019.  

His business catered about 80% Corporate events and the rest weddings and social events.  By the time he left the business, he had 70 full-time staff, 3 cafes, and a regular client that he catered for 20,000 guests at one time multiple years in a row!

In 2016 he had a therapist, doctor, and mentor all say to him “It sounds like you need a vacation.”  Having been intrigued with the city of Berlin for many years he first visited the city in 2007 and kept visiting every couple of years running the Berlin Marathon three times.  So he decided that vacation would be a 3-month sabbatical from work and he would go to Berlin to experience more of the city and culture and travel around Europe.  

Once in Berlin he connected with a community there and fell more in love with the city and the people.  After the sabbatical, for the next couple of years, he started stepping back from his business a bit and would travel to Berlin for a month at a time and work remotely, letting some of his managers handle the day-to-day operations.  

At the same time in 2016, he celebrated being with his husband for 30 years, but at the same time, the relationship was changing.  He was actively looking for an apartment in Silicon Valley to be on his own and soon realized that he could rent an apartment in Berlin and fly back and forth every couple of months for less than renting an apartment in the Valley, so that is how he ended up in Berlin.  

In 2018 on one trip back to California and work his General Manager said “When you are ready to sell the business I want to buy it”, his immediate answer was YES.  Although he loved working and building the business, mentoring staff, and thought he would be working till he was 100, it seemed like the right thing to do at the time.  

So at the end of 2018, he sold the business, bought an apartment in Berlin, and now resides there about 80% of the year.  

·       Berlin is the capital and largest city in Germany, with a population of over 3.7 million people. It has a rich history, and vibrant culture, and is known for its progressive attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights.

·       Here are some of the highlights of why Berlin could be a great place for LGBTQ+ retirees:

·       LGBTQ+ Scene: Berlin is famous for its diverse and inclusive LGBTQ+ scene, which includes everything from bars and clubs to community centers and events. The city has a long history of LGBTQ+ activism and is home to one of the world's largest pride parades, Christopher Street Day, which takes place every June.

·       Cultural Offe

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Growing up in rural Kentucky, John Brock comes from a long line of unsuccessful farmers. As a young man, he fell in love with his best friend (a handsome young man) and quickly realized that Kentucky was not a safe place, so he moved to New York.  After five years, John moved to Atlanta for the vibrant gay community. John served as the commissioner of Hotlanta Volleyball and participated in Gay Games 1990 and 1994. At the same time, John attended graduate school at Emory University and later worked at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a toxicologist. 

After working way too hard for 10 years, doing research in 17 countries, and sitting in traffic far too long, John moved to Asheville in 2001 to be a professor and create a nurturing home life. John now teaches at the University of North Carolina Asheville and consults on a national study of birth defects. 

John lives in a loving web of people but, oddly, is currently single. He would like to date (hint hint). He is currently raising his nearly perfect adopted 16-year-old son who will soon go off to college. He also is raising a sweet, somewhat neurotic dog, who will not. 

Asheville is John’s home base but he dreams of living in other countries, one or two month a year, and some new adventures.

·       Asheville is a city located in the western part of the state of North Carolina, United States. Here are some quick facts about Asheville:

·       Population: As of the 2020 Census, the estimated population of Asheville was 97,317.

·       Geography: Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest. The city sits at an elevation of 2,134 feet (650 meters) above sea level.

·       Climate: Asheville has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in July is 83°F (28°C), while the average low temperature in January is 28°F (-2°C).

·       LGBTQ Community: Asheville has a vibrant LGBTQ community and has been recognized as one of the most gay-friendly cities in the country. The city has numerous LGBTQ-owned businesses and hosts several LGBTQ events throughout the year, such as the Blue Ridge Pride Festival.

·       Crime and Safety: According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, Asheville has a crime rate that is higher than the national average. However, the city has a relatively low violent crime rate. Like any city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

 ·     Cost of Living: Asheville has a cost of living that is slightly higher than the national average. However, the city has a relatively low cost of housing compared to other cities on the East Coast. The cost of living can vary depending on the neighborhood you live in and your lifestyle. 

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Mick Lockey, who retired in 2017 lives in San Miguel de Allende, located in the central highlands of Mexico, about three and half hours north of Mexico City, in the state of Guanajuato. The city sits on a bed of rose quartz, and the local legend is that this affords San Miguel “magical” qualities. 

Mick is from the San Francisco Bay Area—first San Francisco, then Oakland--having worked in high-tech publishing, cable TV broadcasting, and a variety of editing and writing stints in banking, insurance, and website development. 

Often called el corazon de Mexico, San Miguel is a colonial gem featuring Old World Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, and a grand pink Neo-Gothic cathedral. Readers from Travel and Leisure magazine have voted San Miguel de Allende one of the most beautiful cities in the world. 

San Miguel is a favored spot for expats from around the world, approximating 10 percent of the city’s 160,000 residents. The city offers a relaxed, gracious style of living with fine dining, art galleries, boutiques, and a variety of opportunities to socialize. The weather is mostly temperate year-round.  The cost of living is considerably lower than in the U.S. and Canada, although, with inflation, prices are rising for everything from housing to food costs. 

Traditionally a place for retired expats, San Miguel is enjoying popularity among young families and digital nomads. LGTBQ Out magazine has called San Miguel, the “new queer oasis.” 

(Reference: https://www.out.com/travel/2020/9/03/thirsting-culture-san-miguel-de-allende-lgbtq-travel-must). San Miguel does have a gay community, with a small annual Gay Pride parade,  but the community is integrated well within the larger culture. 

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Tweed Harris is a 90-year-old gay male in Pattaya, Thailand. He is a retired actor/singer/teacher.

Now a novelist and playwright. Born in London UK, moved to Australia when he was 16 years old.

Autobiography published 2002.

Now living in Thailand with his Thai husband.
Links to Tweed Harris:
https://www.amazon.com/Tweed-Harris/e/B004NZPGNY%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

https://www.stageplays.com/plays-by-author/Tweed%20Harris

Here are some facts on living in retirement in Pattaya, Thailand:

• Cost of living: The cost of living in Pattaya is very low compared to many other countries. A couple can live comfortably on a budget of $2,000 per month.
• Weather: The weather in Pattaya is warm and sunny year-round. The average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Healthcare: Healthcare in Pattaya is good and affordable. There are many hospitals and clinics in the city, and many doctors and nurses speak English.
• Visas: Retirees from many countries can obtain a visa that allows them to live in Thailand for one year. The visa can be renewed for multiple years.
• Culture: Thailand is a very welcoming and friendly country. The Thai people are known for their hospitality and their love of life.
• Activities: There are many activities and things to do in Pattaya. The city has beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of cultural attractions.

Overall, Pattaya is a great place to live in retirement. The cost of living is low, the weather is great, and there are many things to do. If you are looking for a warm, sunny place to retire, Pattaya is a great option.

Here are some additional tips for retirees considering Pattaya:

• Do your research: There are many different areas of Pattaya, and some are more suitable for retirees than others. Do your research and find an area that fits your needs and budget.
• Visit Pattaya before you move: It is always a good idea to visit a place before you move there. This will give you a chance to see the city for yourself and meet some of the people who live there.
• Be prepared to adjust to a new culture: Thailand is a very different country from the United States, and it may take some time to adjust to the culture shock.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Elizabeth Gabriel Brooke

During graduate school in 1974, she went to Provincetown on a whim for New Year’s. It turned into a wild and crazy weekend that included Grace Jones in concert.  

Provincetown spoke to her then as it continues to do every day. She was determined to return for the summer, which she did. Since that time, she has never left except to travel. Over the next several decades, she wore many entrepreneurial hats with business startups, including kite store owner, printmaker, website and design firm owner, restauranteur, photo studio owner, press photographer, advertising marketing director, innkeeper, educator, nonprofit founder, therapy dog trainer, and boat captain. 

Her core interests are the welfare of animals and children, environmental preservation, and fine art & wildlife photography. 

She lives at Gabriel’s, a Provincetown hotel that she has owned since 1979. They have luxury accommodations, consisting of four buildings, and are right in the center of town next to the park. Her wife, also named Elizabeth, runs the business now, so she is free and able to concentrate full-time on my photography.

 Visit Gabriel's at: www.gabriels.com 

____________________________________________ 
 

As photographer

About The Photographer:

Photographer Elizabeth G. Brooke has made her home in Provincetown, MA, since 1974; her lifelong love of the sea and her seaside community is frequently evident in her images. However, she travels worldwide, always broadening her subject matter while using her technical skill and aesthetic vision. 

Publications: Massachusetts Audubon Society newsletter, Cape Cod Times, Boston Globe, Provincetown Magazine, Provincetown Independent, New York Times, South by Southeast Magazine, Shitzen Magazine, among others. 

Exhibits: Provincetown Art Association and Museum juried show, One woman show at The Commons in Provincetown, Cape Cod Creative Arts Center in Chatham, Columbia Arts Center in Maryland, Photoplace Gallery in Vermont, SE Center for Photography

Awards: First Place Winner in Black and White category by Paper Arts Collective, Best in Show by Orleans Gallery of Photography, Jurors Award for Anamalia by Photoplace Gallery, Award in Group Show by Chatham Creative Arts Center, Leica Society Photo of the Week

Her 2021 book of Provincetown-based images, “The Lobstermen,” can be purchased online at https://www.blurb.com/b/10527651-the-lobstermen

Elizabeth describes looking through her lens and uniting with her subject without thinking, “change my f-stop, move right, left, up, down,” but rather sensing what will capture the raw quality and feel of the moment through creative intuition and sharing that through her images.

Elizabeth holds a Master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts/Amherst. She is married. You are invited to visit her website, here: https://www.elizabethgbrooke.com/


Provincetown is a town located at the extreme tip of Cape Cod in Barns

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Kevin Pollock
I am originally from NY but lived the last 20 or so years in the Phoenix area, with stops in VA and FL in between. The vast majority of my career was based in land development and real estate management. The firm I worked for assisted developers in building large-scale master-planned communities, golf course communities, etc. Aside from consulting with the developers, we also managed the asset after it was built, providing long-term partnerships to help maintain the vision. My last position with the company was as Executive Director at Desert Mountain in Scottsdale AZ. 
 
In 2021, my husband and I decided to sell our home and most of our belongings and move to Europe. We initially chose Portugal as our destination, but after some scouting, we decided France was a better fit for us. At first, we arrived in the south of France, Cote D'Azur, but ultimately decided the French countryside was a better fit. The charm of the small villages, the markets, the vineyards, and the slower pace of life was the biggest factor. Additionally, having brought our small dog, apartment (city) life was not the best option. 
 
I'm currently renting a small house in the village of Beauregard-et-Bassac, which is between the cities of Bergerac and Périgueux, about one and a half hours east of Bordeaux. And while I "retired" from my career in land development, I have taken on some part-time marketing work for an English company based in France.

Sure, here are some quick facts about Dordogne, France, with a focus on retirement:

• Location: Dordogne is a department in southwestern France, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It is situated between the Loire Valley and the Pyrenees mountains. 
• Area: Dordogne has an area of 9,060 square kilometers.
• Population: Dordogne has a population of about 430,000 people.
• Capital: The capital of Dordogne is Périgueux. 
• Language: The official language of Dordogne is French. However, many people in the region also speak Occitan, a regional language of southern France.
• Climate: Dordogne has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters.
• Economy: The economy of Dordogne is based on agriculture, tourism, and wine production.
• Attractions: Dordogne is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful countryside, medieval villages, and world-famous caves. Some of the most popular attractions in Dordogne include Lascaux Caves: These caves are famous for their prehistoric paintings. 
• The Périgord Noir: This region is known for its black limestone cliffs and forests. 
• The Dordogne River Valley: This valley is home to many charming villages and vineyards. 
• Sarlat-la-Canéda: This medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Retirement Information

Dordogne is a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and relaxed lifestyle. The cost of living in Dordogne is also relatively low, making it an affordable option for retirees.

Here are some of the things that make Dordogne a great place to retire:

• Beautiful scenery: Dordogne is home to some o

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Thank you so

Hello, my name is Margaret Roesch and I have been lucky enough to share the past 27 years with my wife, Pat McAulay. Pat moved to Durham from Flint, MI and I am a transplant from West Lafayette, IN. We met in Durham and chose to create our 55+, LGBTQ+, cohousing community here in Durham, a very Gay-friendly city in the liberal part of NC called The Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill). Our condo-style homes on 5 of our 15 acres in N. Durham consist of 28 individual 1-story homes. The homes are connected in side-by-side quads, brightly colored, and are within close distance of the 2600 SF, Common House.  

We’ve been here 3 years, and I still smile every morning when I wake up and realize we really live here! There are challenges for us to learn new ways to communicate and navigate the process of making decisions with 27 other homeowners. I feel like there’s always something coming up to do, and something new for me to learn which is essential to keep our minds active and engaged!  

Pat and I wanted to avoid the loneliness and isolation we often see as folks age and mobility becomes more difficult. In addition, we wanted to be in a community with like-minded neighbors who could share resources and give and receive neighborly support. Village Hearth was a dream in 2015 when we hired our Development Consultant, Katie McCamant (Cohousing Solutions) and by 2020 we were moving into our completed homes. We are a lovely mix of well-educated, well-traveled, politically aware, partnered, married, widowed, divorced, and living single or with partners/spouses. We also are a mix of LGBTQ+ folks and folks who identify themselves as “straight”.  

All of us at Village Hearth have a special bond because of all we have seen affect the LGBTQ+ community over the decades. We have rejoiced and cried at the events we have seen in person or on TV.  We have come too far to have to go back into the closet. And, in a community like Village Hearth, we know we can always feel understood, respected, and free to be who we really are.

Check out the story on CNBC! https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/12/how-lgbtq-seniors-can-tackle-their-special-caregiving-challenges.html.
Village Hearth Website: About Village Hearth - VILLAGE HEARTH (villagehearthcohousing.com)
Village Hearth Co-Housing Facebook Page: (10) Facebook

Resources:
Cohousing.org
CohoUS (Cohousing Association of the U.S.)

Ic.org
Foundation for Intentional Communities

Cohousing-solutions.com
Katie McCamant, President, Cohousing Solutions
(0ur fabulous Development Consultant)

Senior Cohousing Handbook, 2nd Ed. A Community Approach to Independent Living
Charles Durrett, Author (ebook or paperback)

…and one of the best ways to get a feel for Village Hearth and Durham is to look through our newsletter archives:

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Stephen Keiley - 61 years old. I was born and raised in New York City (Forest Hills, Queens). I grew up in the ’70s and ’80s in NYC during the peak of the AIDS crisis. This was a very scary time, but the gay community rallied together to remove the stigma that was associated with HIV/AIDS. 

After high school, I began working in the airline industry as a customer service representative. This led me to a job transfer to Ft. Lauderdale, Fl in 1985. I spent ten years in South Florida where I met my former partner. Together, we moved to San Diego in 1995 as a result of his job transfer. 

Our partnership ended in 2005. However, we remain great friends to this day. It was also during this time that I enrolled in school to obtain my degree in Education. In 2002 I started my career as a teacher. I have been teaching at the same school since (21 years). 

I met my current husband, Curtis, on a vacation in Florida in 2012. He lived in Philadelphia at the time and we maintained a long-distance relationship for two years until he moved to San Diego in 2014. We were married in 2019. He also works in education. As we plan for our retirement, one of our priorities is to continue our love of traveling (particularly cruises). Our goal is to retire in 2025.

San Diego is a large coastal city in California, well-known for its beaches, climate, and military bases. It is also a popular destination for LGBTQ+ people, who make up a significant portion of the population.

Geography

San Diego is located in the southern part of California, on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. It is bordered by Mexico to the south and east, and by the cities of Chula Vista, National City, and Imperial Beach to the north and west. The city has a total area of 325 square miles, making it the second-largest city in California by area.

Population

The population of San Diego is approximately 1.4 million people. The city is home to a diverse population, with people from all over the world calling San Diego home. The LGBTQ+ community is a significant part of the population, making up an estimated 10% of the city's residents.

LGBTQ+ Community

San Diego is a very welcoming city for LGBTQ+ people. The city has a large and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, with many resources and events available to LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. Hillcrest is a neighborhood in San Diego that is known for its LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood is home to many LGBTQ+ businesses, bars, and clubs.

Climate

San Diego has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature in San Diego is 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The city receives an average of 10 inches of rain per year.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in San Diego is relatively high. The median home price in San Diego is $750,000. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,000 per month.

Crime and Safety

San Diego is a relatively safe city. The violent crime rate in San Diego is lower than the national average. The property crime rate in San Diego is higher than the national average.

Overall, San Diego is a great place to

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Keith Coleman -
1984 - Worked at United Airlines, Los Angeles, CA as a Reservation Specialist

1985 - Worked as a flight attendant for United Airlines, Chicago, IL, Los Angeles CA, San Francisco, CA, Miami, FL, and London, UK              Moved to Cathedral City, California

1989 - Worked at College of the Desert. Palm Desert, CA as Adjunct faculty (Theatre Arts)

1991 - Moved to London, UK

1992 - Moved to Ft. Lauderdale, FL

1992 - Moved to Cathedral City, California

2004 - Graduated from San Francisco State University, M.A. (Drama)

2001- 2013 Produced and directed multiple plays for community theatre

2011- Retired from United Airlines

2023 -Traveling and enjoying life!  

I was partnered from 1985-1998, my husband is deceased

I am partnered/married from1999 to present

Two dogs, one cat, one tortoise

Cathedral City

• Geography: Cathedral City is a desert resort city in Riverside County, California, United States, within the Colorado Desert's Coachella Valley. It is situated between Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage and has over 50,000 people.
• Population: The population of Cathedral City is diverse, with a large Hispanic population. The median age is 38.1 years old, and the median household income is $50,350.
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in Cathedral City is relatively high, especially for housing. The median home price is over $500,000.
• LGBTQ Community: Cathedral City is a welcoming city for the LGBTQ community. The city has a Pride festival every year, and many LGBTQ-owned businesses are in the city.
• Crime and Safety: The crime rate in Cathedral City is relatively low. The violent crime rate is below the national average, and the property crime rate is slightly above the national average.

Here are some additional facts about Cathedral City:

• The city was incorporated in 1981.
• The city is home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
• The city is known for its golf courses, spas, and resorts.
• The city is a popular destination for winter snowbirds.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Thank you so much for listening!

Bob Klein 

Originally from Philadelphia, Bob spent time growing up in Mexico and Florida, where he completed a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. Bob’s professional background includes a career working in grant administration for both the New Mexico State Supreme Court and the Cochise County, AZ Victim Witness Program. He has been involved in real estate for many years, starting off by working in property management in Santa Fe. Bob also owns and operates the Doublejack Guesthouse, a popular destination guesthouse in historic Old Bisbee. 

Bob has worked as a REALTOR in Bisbee since 2013; every year since 2015 he has been voted “Best REALTOR in Bisbee” by the Sierra Vista Herald. He has been a resident of Bisbee since 2004 and attributes much of his success to his passion for the community of Bisbee, from the people and historic nature of the town to the beauty of the historic architecture and the landscape. His appreciation and knowledge of Cochise County and the local real estate market have become an advantage for his clients; they continue to value his hands-on approach, attention to detail, persistence, strong negotiating skills, extensive local network, and insider knowledge. 

Community involvement is critical to Bob, and he’s manifested this in many ways. This includes being involved in the creation and development of the annual Bisbee Pride Festival and working with the annual Bisbee Historic Home Tour and annual Bisbee Coaster Races. Bob is also strongly committed to quality childhood education in Bisbee by working on the Bisbee Community Montessori School Board of Directors and CMS Executive Steering Committee. 

When Bob is not previewing Bisbee properties, assisting folks in listing their properties, or helping others find the perfect Bisbee home/getaway, he enjoys spending time with his family, volunteering, cooking, being physically active, traveling, and sharing experiences with friends. Whether sharing his passion for Bisbee with his clients or marketing a home to others, Bob is committed to offering the highest quality representation and service. His track record says it all.

Bisbee, Arizona

• Population: Bisbee's population was around 5,500 residents. (2021) 
• Geography: Bisbee is a city located in the southeastern part of Arizona, near the Mexican border. It is nestled in the Mule Mountains, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
• Climate: Bisbee experiences a semi-arid climate. Summers are typically hot with temperatures reaching the 90s °F (30-40°C) during the day. Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures averaging in the 50s to 60s °F (10-20°C). It can get quite chilly at night during the winter.
• Cost of living: Bisbee is known for being an affordable place to live compared to larger cities in the United States. The cost of living can vary, but generally, housing costs, utilities, and other expenses are relatively reasonable.
• LGBTQ+ community: Bisbee has a vibrant and inclusive LGBTQ+ community. The city has been recognized as LGBTQ+-friendly and has a reputation for being an accepting and supportive community for people of all sexual orientations an

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Greg Wine lives with his husband Robert Zargaryan in Sacramento, California.

They have been together for 26 years after meeting at the Los Angeles Gay Rodeo.   

They moved to Sacramento 16 years ago from Los Angeles where Greg was a restaurant manager and a dietitian.   

Greg is now a retired clinical dietitian from UC Davis Medical Center, where he was promoting healthy nutrition and preventing malnutrition in patients with Head and Neck Cancer. 

 In retirement, Greg assists his husband Robert, a Realtor, and his clients with design ideas to maximize potential in buying and selling real estate.  

Together they live in an active 55+ resort community of 960 homes called Heritage Park, in Sacramento where they enjoy many amenities, including a 100+ member Rainbow Club. 

Sacramento, California

• Current population: 523,899 (2022)
• Geography: Sacramento is located in the Central Valley of California, at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Sacramento is slightly lower than the national average.
• Transportation: Sacramento is a relatively easy city to get around, with a variety of public transportation options available, including buses, light rail, and Amtrak.
• LGBTQ+ community: Sacramento has a thriving LGBTQ+ community, with a number of bars, clubs, and organizations that cater to the community.
• Crime and safety: Sacramento has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in California.

Here are some additional details about each of these points:

• Population: Sacramento is the capital of California and the sixth-most populous city in the state. The population has been growing steadily in recent years and is expected to continue to grow in the future.
• Geography: Sacramento is located in the Central Valley of California, at the confluence of the Sacramento and American rivers. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural land.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Sacramento is slightly lower than the national average. The median home price is $450,000, and the median rent is $1,500 per month.
• Transportation: Sacramento is a relatively easy city to get around, with a variety of public transportation options available. The Sacramento Regional Transit District (RTD) operates buses, light rail, and a streetcar. Amtrak also offers service to Sacramento.
• LGBTQ+ community: Sacramento has a thriving LGBTQ+ community, with a number of bars, clubs, and organizations that cater to the community. The city hosts the annual Sacramento Pride Festival, which is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in California.
• Crime and safety: Sacramento has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in California. The violent crime rate is below the national average, and the property crime rate is slightly above the national average.

Check out this link on LGBTQ+ Sacramento. 

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Paul Iarrobino is a community activist, speaker, author and documentarian with over three decades of gerontology experience.
He implemented virtual gatherings for older adults to safely connect during the pandemic to reduce isolation and increase social connectivity. This experience led to Paul’s first book, COVIDOLOGY: Sharing Life Lessons from Behind the Mask.
His current book Defining Moments will amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ writers and will be released early next year. You can follow his work at https://www.ourboldvoices.com.

Sure, here are some highlights of Portland, Oregon in bullet points:

• Population: 641,162 (2021)
• Climate: Temperate, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F (2°C) in the winter to 75°F (24°C) in the summer.
• Geography: Located in the Willamette Valley, on the Columbia and Willamette rivers.
• Cost of living: Moderate, with a median home price of $525,000 (2022).
• LGBTQ+ community: Large and welcoming, with Portland being named one of the "Best Places to Live for LGBTQ People" by The Advocate magazine.
• Arts and culture: Thriving, with a variety of museums, theaters, and music venues.
• Crime and safety: Relatively safe, with a violent crime rate that is below the national average.

Here are some additional details about each of these highlights:

• Population: Portland is the largest city in Oregon and the 26th largest city in the United States. The population is diverse, with many people from Asian, European, and Hispanic backgrounds.
• Climate: Portland has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. The winters are mild, with average temperatures in the mid-30s Fahrenheit. The summers are warm, with average temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit.
• Geography: Portland is located in the Willamette Valley, a lush, green valley surrounded by mountains. The city is bisected by the Columbia and Willamette rivers, which provide stunning views and opportunities for recreation.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Portland is moderate, but it has been rising in recent years. The median home price is now over $500,000.
• LGBTQ+ community: Portland has a large and welcoming LGBTQ+ community. The city has been named one of the "Best Places to Live for LGBTQ People" by The Advocate magazine.
• Arts and culture: Portland has a thriving arts and culture scene. The city has a number of museums, theaters, and music venues. The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the Pacific Northwest. The Portland Center Stage is a professional theater company that produces a wide range of plays. The Portland Symphony Orchestra is a well-respected classical music ensemble.
• Crime and safety: Portland is relatively safe, with a violent crime rate that is below the national average. However, the city has seen increased property crime in recent years.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Zac Campbell:
My name is Zac Campbell. I’m a chef, a wedding and event planner, a former interior designer, and a lover of living life out loud. I’ve produced upward of 300 weddings and events all over the world.  I’ve had the privilege to cook for Rock Stars, Royals, and Regular Joes and Janes. I’ve lived life with passion. I’ve hit hard times and I’ve celebrated the good times. I’ve been engaged twice and married once. Not only have I created beautiful events for other people, I have also created my own “BIG DAY”!

John Rogers:
John was born in Bogota, Colombia, and grew up in Denver, Colorado.
He attended the University of Colorado in Boulder with a major in Finance.
He moved to Dallas, Texas where he was a bank examiner for two years.
He attended law school at the University of Texas in Austin. 
He worked at the Federal Reserve Bank and was the assistant city attorney in Dallas where he worked in zoning and urban planning.
John retired in 2014 and was a flight attendant with Southwest Airlines, working at World Market, and LA Fitness.
He moved to Mexico City in June 2022.

Quick facts

Here are some quick facts on Mexico City, Mexico:

• Area: 1,495 square kilometers (577 sq mi)
• Altitude: 2,240 meters (7,350 ft)
• Climate: Temperate, with hot summers and cool winters
• Time zone: Central Standard Time (UTC-6)
• Languages: Spanish, Nahuatl, and other indigenous languages
• Currency: Mexican peso (MXN)
• Government: Federal republic
• Capital: Mexico City

Mexico City is the most populous city in North America and the second-largest city in the Americas after São Paulo, Brazil. It is also one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, with a population of over 22 million people. The city is located in the Valley of Mexico, at an altitude of over 2,000 meters (6,600 feet). Mexico City has a long and rich history, dating back to its founding by the Aztecs in the 14th century. The city was conquered by the Spanish in 1521 and became the capital of New Spain. After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Mexico City remained the capital of the new nation.

Today, Mexico City is a modern metropolis with a diverse population. The city is home to a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums, historical sites, and theaters. Mexico City is also a major center for business, finance, and education.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Mark McNease is the author of 13 novels, including the Kyle Callahan Mysteries, the Maggie Dahl Mysteries, the Marshall James Thrillers, and several stand-alone books. He has had six plays produced, the last one being at New Jersey Repertory Company. He is the founder and editor of LGBTSR.com, a website dedicated to LGBTQ people over 50 and our friends that he launched 11 years ago.

He is a two-time Emmy winner, as the co-creator and original writer for the children’s television program, Into the Outdoors. He worked as the Story Editor for foreign co-productions of Sesame Street, before spending a decade at Reuters News, the world’s largest news organization, as the Executive Assistant to the Global Managing Editor. He has been the co-host of The Twist Podcast with his longtime collaborator Rick Rose (Madison, WI) for the past five years. 

He currently lives in rural New Jersey, after spending 25 years in New York City (preceded by 12 years in Los Angeles). He is a Mississippian by birth, a Hoosier by upbringing, and much prefers where he lives to either of those locations.  

He will soon celebrate 10 years of marriage to his husband, Frank Murray (17 years together), and loves ‘the country life’ surrounded by woods, animals, and plant life, just 20 minutes from Lambertville, NJ, his favorite town and now the setting of his murder mysteries.  

Check out Mark's website https://markmcnease.com/.  You will find his podcast The Twist with Mark & Rick, his books, and more.  Subscribe to LGBTSR.com and read columns, the Savvy Senior.
Thank you Mark for all that you do for our community!!! <3

Lambertville, New Jersey

Lambertville is a city within Hunterdon County in the U.S. state of New Jersey. As of the 2020 United States census, the city's population was 4,139, an increase of 233 (+6.0%) from the 3,906 recorded at the 2010 census, which in turn had reflected an increase of 38 (1.0%) from the 3,868 counted at the 2000 census.

Lambertville is situated on the banks of the Delaware River in southwestern Hunterdon County, directly across the river from New Hope, Pennsylvania. In the 18th century, the area was named after various operators of ferries across the river to Pennsylvania, ultimately becoming known as Coryell's Ferry, after its owner, Emanuel Coryell. Coryell's Ferry was the western terminus of the New Jersey portion of York Road, which became U.S. Route 202

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Jim Meadows, MSW, is the executive director of New Orleans Advocates for LGBTQ+ Elders (NOAGE). 

In addition to his work with NOAGE, he is the secretary for the LGBT Archives Project of Louisiana, and he serves on the board of directors for A Home Among Friends, which aims to provide affordable housing to low-income LGBT seniors in New Orleans.

He is vice president of the New Orleans Steamboat Club, one of the oldest gay social clubs in America. He is particularly interested in providing support to LGBT elders, and in preserving the history and legacy of the New Orleans LGBT community.

Joe Fay is the founder of A Home Among Friends, a 501(c)(3) created to provide affordable housing for very low-income LGBTQ seniors. We believe communities that are modest in scope work best to create not just housing, but homes for older folks who deserve as much as anyone to enjoy their golden years in safe, welcoming environments.

Joe spent 30 years in the non-profit sector in senior management and leadership. He is a graduate of Boston College and Columbia University's Graduate School of Business. He served as a U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer between college and graduate school. He and his long-time partner were recently married in New Orleans. They live in the Irish Channel in a restored Italianate home dating from the 1880s.

New Orleans
New Orleans is a Louisiana city on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico. Nicknamed the "Big Easy," it's known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live music scene, and spicy, singular cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African, and American cultures. Embodying its festive spirit is Mardi Gras, the late-winter carnival famed for raucous costumed parades and street parties. 

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Richard Ostreicher  was born in Plainview, New York, and began his professional career at the Yale School of Drama and Yale Repertory Theatre.  He went on to be the first Managing Director of the Portland Stage Company, Maine’s first resident professional theatre.

The early 80s HIV/AIDS crisis inspired him to partner with NYC-based pioneers in HIV/AIDS patient care and research that was published in notable medical journals and tests.  This life-changing experience led him to enroll in medical school at the age of 29.  He returned to Yale in ’88 as a resident in Internal Medicine and then to NYU as a resident in Dermatology.

He has over 35 years of medical experience in the San Francisco Bay area and was an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.

He is currently a volunteer physician with Hawaii’s Big Island Medical Reserve Corps and resides near Hilo, Hawaii with his husband, Bob Sleasman.

Bob Sleasman is originally from upstate New York.  His professional brand marketing career led him over the years to reside in the San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, Cincinnati, Baltimore, and Sarasota.  He currently is gleefully retired and living on Hawaii’s Big Island with his husband Rich.

After earning his MBA at Northwestern University’s prestigious Kellogg School he climbed the corporate brand management ladder at such companies as Procter & Gamble, Clorox, and Ghirardelli Premium Chocolate.  Having developed an expertise in strategic brand design he jumped to the branding agency business and consulted with a multitude of well-known consumer brands for the balance of his career.

Hilo is the largest city on the Big Island of Hawaii, with a population of 45,248 as of 2020. It is located on the eastern side of the island, on the shores of Hilo Bay. Hilo is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes.

Some of the popular points of interest in Hilo include:

• Rainbow Falls: A beautiful waterfall that cascades over a basalt cliff.
• Akaka Falls State Park: A park that features Akaka Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: A national park that protects the active volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
• Liliuokalani Gardens: A botanical garden that features a variety of plants from around the world.
• Lyman Museum and Mission House: A museum that tells the story of the early missionaries to Hawaii.
• Pacific Tsunami Museum: A museum that tells the story of the devastating tsunami that struck Hilo in 1946.

The cost of living in Hilo is relatively high, compared to other parts of the United States. The median home price in Hilo is $500,000, and the median rent is $1,500 per month. However, the cost of living in Hilo is still lower than on the other islands of Hawaii.

The LGBTQ+ community in Hilo is small but active. There are a number of LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and organizations in Hilo, and the city is generally welcoming to LGBTQ+ people.

Here are some additional facts about Hilo:

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Keith and Joe moved to Costa Rica after many years of living in Arizona.  They have been together for 16 years.  They both had a dream of living in Costa Rica and running a small hotel.  3 years ago, they finally made it come true, finding the perfect hotel in Uvita Costa Rica.  They sold their home in Arizona and bought Nature’s Edge Hotel in March 2020.  The US borders shut the exact week that they planned to move due to Covid, so they had to manage a major hotel renovation project remotely from the states.  The borders finally opened in September 2020, allowing them to finally arrive in Costa Rica.  Their first hotel guests arrived in December 2020.

Keith was born in New Jersey but spent most of his younger life in Atlanta.  Joe was born and raised in Chicago.  After meeting 16 years ago, they moved to Arizona.

Keith has a degree in Psychology from Georgia State.

Joe started his career as a registered nurse but worked most of his professional career in the IT and Operations side of healthcare.  Joe has a BSN from Northern Illinois, an MBA from Loyola University Chicago, and a Masters degree in Healthcare Administration from Georgia State University.  Joe worked remotely for the first 3 years after moving to Costa Rica but just retired (June 30, 2023) and now works solely helping to run the hotel.

Keith has had a variety of jobs throughout his career, first working as a corporate travel agent and then moving on to various project management roles in the tech and travel industries.  Keith quit working after purchasing the hotel and is the primary operator of the hotel.  Joe cooks breakfast, sets up rooms, does laundry, and checks in guests.

Joe plays tennis, works out at the gym, hikes, reads, cooks, and bakes.  He also watches a lot of tennis on TV.

Keith discovered a love for gardening and bird watching since moving to Costa Rica.  They both are actively engaged in the Costa Rican community they live in. 

Both Keith and Joe enjoy traveling.   They are going on an extended trip to Spain followed by a trans-Atlantic cruise.

Uvita 

Town in Costa Rica

• Population: Approximately 5,000 people
• Geography: Uvita is located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Puntarenas province. It is about a 3-hour drive from the capital city of San José. 
• Climate: Uvita has a tropical rainforest climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The average temperature is 77°F (25°C).
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Uvita is relatively affordable, especially compared to other parts of Costa Rica. Groceries are also relatively inexpensive, and you can find many local restaurants that offer affordable meals.
• Uvita is home to the Whale Tail, a natural rock formation that resembles a whale's tail. This is a popular spot for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the area every year to mate and give birth. 
• Uvita is also home to the Marino Ballena National Park, which protects a variety of wildlife, including humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, and monkeys.
• Uvita is a popular destination for surfers, as it has several good surfing spot

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Born in Anaheim, California, Lew Gallo, and his family moved to the San Francisco area when he was nine years old. The move was not unfamiliar to Lew and his siblings. His parents were known to take Sunday drives. As it would get later in the day and no sign of his parents, Lew’s oldest sister would start to cry but Lew was filled with excitement. This usually meant their parents had found a new home to buy, and for Lew, a new place to discover and new friends to make!

It is this excitement of discovery and anticipation of meeting new people that has only flourished with time. After visiting Los Cabos on a quick weekend getaway with friends, Lew was captivated by the beauty of the ocean, terrain, and people of Baja Sur. The practically perfect weather and delicious cuisine only added to its allure. Lew went home, gave his notice at work, and was living in Cabo 3 months later.

Now, with 4+ years of living the Cabo life, Lew has become known for bringing people together and sharing his love for all that is Cabo. He has earned a reputation for taking exceptional care of the buyers and sellers he represents, making sure to go the extra mile to get the best deal possible. Whether it’s a high-rise condo or a high-end beachfront property, Lew knows the ins and outs of Los Cabos and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Before entering real estate, Lew had a successful furniture and interior design career focusing on superior quality and unique sustainable design. He has a discerning eye for architecture and an appreciation of community. Combine that with a genuine concern for people and an ability to hear their specific needs and wants, and you see what drives Lew to be the best at what he does.

Lew has had the opportunity to travel the world for both work and pleasure. For his design work, he spent a lot of time in Asia and Europe. During this time, he found a deep love for Vietnam and considered living there at one point. Luca Italy was also on his list of places to live but since his parents were getting up there in age, he wanted to focus on places closer to the US. After crossing PV and PS off of his list, he discovered San Jose del Cabo and knew he found his new home.
Check out his website at www.gallo64.com

 El Pescadero, Mexico:

• Population: 4,245 (2020)
• Geography: Located on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico, about 8 kilometers south of Todos Santos and one hour north of Cabo San Lucas.
• Climate: Hot and dry summers, mild winters. Average temperature: 22°C (72°F).
• LGBTQ+ community: El Pescadero is a relatively accepting community for LGBTQ+ people. There are a few gay-owned businesses in town, and the annual Chili and Strawberry Festival is a popular event for the LGBTQ+ community.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in El Pescadero is lower than in most other parts of Mexico. A couple can live comfortably on a budget of around $1,500 USD per month.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Elaine Zito was born in Chicago and raised in Elk Grove Village until her family moved to Southern California. She graduated from UCSD in San Diego and received her Political Science degree with an emphasis in Latin American Politics. During her tenure at UCSD, she had the opportunity to study in Mexico City. This is where she discovered her love for the Latin people and culture. Three years later while teaching elementary school in San Diego, Elaine received her Masters in Education with an emphasis in Bilingual Education from the University of San Diego. She has been working on becoming bilingual in Spanish for decades now…it’s a process, not an event!

In 1994, Elaine relocated to Scottsdale, AZ and soon thereafter became securities and insurance licensed after her teaching job ended in Phoenix. 

She figured she might as well learn about money, something her family didn’t really teach her about…After several years of training, she earned her Certified Financial Planning designation as well as the Certified Estate Planning designation.

Elaine helped people retire for 27 years. After Covid and the death of her mother, she and her wife decided to hang it up and retire to Uruguay where they currently reside happily and safely. 

Her major incentive to move away from the US was to create a life where she didn’t feel terrorized on a daily basis.

Cynthia Richards was born and raised in Maine. She is the baby of the family with an older brother who lives in Washington state. She grew up tromping in the woods, fishing in the lakes, and looking for Mermaid tears (sea glass) with her family. She married the woman of her dreams, Elaine Zito, in 2015, and they now tromp through the woods, eat fish someone else has caught, and look for Mermaid tears on the beaches of Uruguay with their family of three dogs.

She started dance class at two or three, found her people in theater groups in school and throughout Maine, and eventually moved to the Washington D.C. area to work professionally in the theater communities in D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. This is a love she has today and continued with Voices of the Desert, an Unconventional Theatrical Chorus in Phoenix, AZ. 

Cynthia has a Master’s Degree in Business with an emphasis on Human Resource Management and has worked in the HR capacity in many forms of business, eventually spending the years before retirement working with her wife in the finance industry. 

Today she can be found in Uruguay, retired, walking with her family on the beach, learning Spanish, finding places to sing and dance, baking, playing pickleball, and being grateful and thankful for the life she has been allowed to create.

If you are interested in reaching out to either Elaine or Cynthia you can email them at elainezito65@gmail.com. 

• Location: La Barra is a resort town located on the eastern coast of Uruguay, near the popular tourist destination of Punta del Este.
• Population: La Barra has a population of about 2,000 people.
• Climate: La Barra has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F.

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Herschel Alan Weisfeld was born March 14, 1961, in McAllen, Texas along the southern border just across the Rio Grande River from Reynosa, Mexico, and graduated from public school in 1979.  While in high school he studied real estate and received his Texas Real Estate salesman’s license as soon as he turned 18 and his Real estate broker’s license at the age of 23.  He received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a concentration in accounting from Tulane University in New Orleans in 1983.

He moved to Dallas Texas in the spring of 1984 where he built a self-directed real estate investment company where he still owns and manages a diverse portfolio of commercial real estate rental properties.  

He came out to his family in the fall of 1984 and today is single and breeds the national dog of Mexico, of which he has 8, and shares these fine miniature hairless Xoloitzcuintli who is just as passionate about the breed as was Freda Khalo and Diego Rivera who brought attention to this 3500-year-old breed that the Aztecs held in high esteem.

He also spent decades engaged in the cultural, political, and civic communities by giving of both his time and resources of which the list is endless.  He has received countless awards and recognitions from art, and historic preservation to homelessness sitting on many boards, commissions, and task forces both in the US and Mexico.

 In 2003 while vacationing in Puerto Vallarta Mexico he bought a small home on a mountainside overlooking the romantic zone and assembled three additional adjoining properties where he designed and built Hacienda Herchito which includes six fully furnished rental apartments along with his private residence which was designed as a boutique hotel but occupied as his private home.  These acquisitions were astute moves before the word got out about PV and the extensive condo explosion took place.

Today Herschel is once again working on a new construction project which is an assemblage of six properties on a higher mountaintop that will be a home with gardens unlike anything that can be found in the romantic zone today so that his dogs will have plenty of room to roam and is known as La Casa Nuevo de La Familia de Yoli y Temo.

Puerto Vallarta Quick Facts

• Population: 319,000
• Geography: Puerto Vallarta is a coastal city in Mexico, located in the state of Jalisco. It is situated on the Pacific Ocean, on the western side of Mexico's mainland. The city is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains to the east.
• Climate: Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, with warm, humid weather year-round. The average temperature is 25°C (77°F). The rainy season runs from June to October, but even during this time, there are usually sunny days in between the rains.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta is relatively low, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations in Mexico. A couple can live comfortably on $2,000 per month, including rent, utilities, and groceries.
• Visa requirements: US citizens do not need a visa to visit Mexico for up to 180 days. However, if you plan to stay longer

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Roxana Bellia
Growing up in Buenos Aires in the 60s, the adventure and quest for new economic opportunities took my parents to the vibrant city of New York. This was amidst the tenuous and fragile government that was later to succumb to a dictatorship.

Despite having grown up with a cosmopolitan mindset and bicultural orientation, California became home and in adult life, Long Beach was my happy home for a long time. 

I currently work mostly remotely as an executive coach and leadership development advisor, although I sometimes travel within Europe for engagements. I support clients primarily in the US, and also in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe. My career began in community public health with many fond memories created in the city of Long Beach where I played and worked.

I live in a 4-story moradia en banda (similar to a townhouse) 3 blocks from the beach in the quaint town of Ericeira with my dog Riley. I’m single.

My wife and partner died in 2017. April was an artist and spiritual seeker and her loss in part fueled my decision to explore beyond my borders. I coached myself – was I living in a town that aligned with my values? The answer was no. Violence, racism, growing homelessness. Added to this, financial pressures brought about my pandemic aftermath. I experienced a significant loss of work and income. So, with 3 passports in hand, US, Italian, and Argentinean, I started to reflect on options outside of where I lived. I didn’t want to “burn” through my savings to stay afloat. And so in the middle of the pandemic, I reached out to my good friend and realtor Marilyn who then lived on the same street and decided to move on selling my property while the market was hot.

Population:

• 8,951 (2021)

Geography:

• A coastal town in the Lisbon District of Portugal
• Known for its world-class surfing beaches
• Located about 50 kilometers northwest of Lisbon

Cost of Living:

• Lower than most major European cities
• The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is €600 per month
• The average cost of a meal at a restaurant is €10

LGBTQ Community:

• Ericeira is a welcoming and inclusive community for LGBTQ people
• There are several LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs in town
• Ericeira Pride is celebrated annually in June

Crime and Safety:

• Ericeira is a very safe place to live
• Crime rates are very low
• The town has a strong sense of community and people look out for each other

Additional Facts:

• Ericeira is a UNESCO World Surfing Reserve
• The town is home to several beautiful beaches, including Praia dos Supertubos, which is known for its powerful waves
• Ericeira is also a popular destination for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities
• The town has a charming historic center with narrow streets and traditional Portuguese houses
• Ericeira is a great place to live for people who are looking for a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Jim Hansen

He was born in Pensacola, Florida in 1965 and raised in a military family. By the time he graduated from high school in 1983 in Newport News, Virginia, he had attended 9 different elementary and secondary schools. He can legitimately say he has lived in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington D.C., New York, Germany and now Maryland. Until he moved to the Washington metro area in 1989, he had never lived in one town/city for more than 3 years.  

Travel and anything international have always been a significant part of his life. He grew up with a German grandmother who taught high school social studies when she wasn’t traveling the world. His grandfather was in the American military and stationed in Turkey in the 1950s and Iran in the 1960s. That fueled his grandmother’s love of the far and near east and that was transmitted to him via the slides she would show him when he stayed at her house and all the Asian artifacts that filled her home. She literally traveled the entire Silk Road except Afghanistan.  By the time he graduated college, he had already been to Europe and Asia. His career choices seemed to boil down to either international relations the hospitality industry, or a mix of the two.

Luck and chance led him to a career in the Federal Government where he’s been for 33 years. Approximately 23 of those years have been spent doing international work. The remainder has been in high-level management positions. His work has allowed him to travel to Europe, South America, and Asia multiple times. Between work and his own passion for travel, he’s a member of the 6 continents club (with only Antarctica being the one that got away). His passion for travel continues in retirement. He’s a big believer in life lists (NOT bucket lists). His generally contains places he’d love to visit. He’s been very lucky in that he’s hit so many places but there are still more to see. Right now, that includes New Zealand, India, South Africa, Costa Rica, Poland, and all the countries of the former Yugoslavia. 

He's very fortunate to have a partner of 29 years who also loves to travel. Ultimately, it’s a compromise. We trade off in picking places to visit. Next stop? Probably Greece because he hasn’t been (I’ve been twice). His next stop? Either India or New Zealand.

The Washington metropolitan area, also sometimes referred to as Greater Washington, the National Capital Region, or colloquially as the DMV (named after the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia), is the metropolitan area containing Washington, D.C., the federal capital of the United States. The metropolitan area includes all of Washington, D.C., and parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

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Dr. Michael Stracener is currently a Visiting Professor in social welfare policy at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He has 40-plus years’ experience as a clinical social worker and doctor of public health, retiring to Las Cruces in 2021 from Federal service with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Stracener is married to Larry King, a clinical social worker who also retired from Federal service with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  Due to the increasingly conservative political policies in their home state (Arkansas) and the overturning of a city ordinance in place to protect employees on the basis of gender identity and expression, the couple decided to leave Arkansas for retirement. Upon retiring from Federal service, the couple researched things such as economics, political climate, cost of living, access to healthcare, and climate in New Mexico, Arizona, California Colorado, and Oregon. The couple narrowed the options to California, Arizona, and New Mexico and made several trips to each to get a feel for where they wanted to live. Climate, moderate cost of living, progressive political climate, and the friendly and diverse cultural community drew them to Las Cruces, New Mexico The presence of a university or college in their retirement community was important and Las Cruces is the home of New Mexico State University (NM SU), a university with enrollment of around 22,000 students. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Las Cruces looks very similar to Palm Springs California terrain wise, but does not have the high Palm Springs cost of living. Las Cruces is the second largest city in New Mexico with a population of over 100,000. 

The couple bought their home in the Mesilla Valley area of Las Cruces in September of 2021 and were able to complete their move in November 2021. In November of 2022, Michael was contacted by a recruiter and asked to consider teaching social welfare policy at NMSU as a Visiting Professor. He began teaching in January 2023 and continues to teach online courses for the School of Social Work at NMSU, focusing on social policy. Since retirement and the move to Las Cruces, Larry has been engaged with a national therapy organization to provide online mental health counseling to residents of New Mexico and Arkansas.

Lac Cruces:

• Population: 111,385 (2020)
• Location: Southern New Mexico, on the banks of the Rio Grande
• Elevation: 3,908 feet (1,193 m)
• Climate: Warm, dry desert climate with 350 days of sunshine per year
• Major industries: Education, healthcare, tourism, agriculture
• Notable attractions: White Sands National Monument, Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, New Mexico State University, Spaceport America
• Why people visit Las Cruces: For its warm weather, beautiful scenery, and variety of cultural and recreational activities
• Why people live in Las Cruces: For its affordable cost of living, friendly people, and proximity to outdoor recreation

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

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Marc Goldberg 

Dog Trainer and author

Marc  Goldberg had his first paying client while still in junior high school and printed his first business card in 1975 at the age of 17.  Marc first competed in an American Kennel Club obedience ring at age 12 with his first dog, a Sheltie named Gus.  They won High in Trial, beating out nearly 100 dogs and they won a Dog World Magazine Award that same year.

Marc became the youngest voting member of the Philadelphia Dog Training Club. He trained dogs for private clients during college at Frankin & Marshall and taught classes for the college Adult Education program. 

Marc became a full-time professional dog trainer in the Chicago area. He served as president of the International Association of Canine Professionals.  

Now he writes books with the Monks of New Skete who are NY Times Best Selling authors. Together, they have coauthored three books:

LET DOGS BE DOGS

THE ART OF TRAINING YOUR DOG 

And their newly released book THE JOY OF PLAYING WITH YOUR DOG

Marc lives with his partner and their two beloved dogs.

Chicago, Illinois
 
- **Population:**
  - Approximately 2.7 million people (as of my last knowledge update in 2022).

- **Climate:**
  - Humid continental climate with distinct seasons.
  - Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid.

- **Cost of Living:**
  - The cost of living in Chicago is generally higher than the national average.
  - Housing costs can be a significant factor, with variations between neighborhoods.

- **Transportation:**
  - Extensive public transportation system including buses and the "L" train system.
  - Major highways and expressways for commuting.
  - Bike-friendly city with a growing emphasis on cycling infrastructure.

- **LGBTQ+ Community:**
  - Chicago has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community with numerous events and organizations.
  - Boystown, in the Lakeview neighborhood, is one of the oldest and most famous LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in the U.S.

- **Arts and Culture:**
  - Home to numerous museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry.
  - The city has a rich architectural history, with iconic buildings like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center.
  - A thriving theater scene, including the famous Chicago Broadway district.

- **Crime and Safety:**
  - Like many large cities, crime rates can vary by neighborhood.
  - Areas downtown and in the north side are generally considered safer, while some south and west side neighborhoods may have higher crime rates.
  - The city has implemented various initiatives to address crime and improve public safety.

These facts provide a general overview, and it's essential to note that the situation in any city can change, so it's a good idea to check for the most recent information if you're considering a move or an extended visit.

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If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

If you or you know someone who is interested in being a guest on the podcast, please contact me at mark@wheredogaysretire.com.

Please join our Where Do Gays Retire Facebook group at Where Do Gays Retire? | Facebook

Thank you so much for listening!

Kevin grew up in the Detroit area. He attended college at Wayne State University and acquired his  Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship. He started working with McDonald’s Restaurants as a franchisee in 1988 as an hourly crew person and worked his up to Director of Operations and Managing Partner. 

He has a great life partner and best friend, and they have been together for 22 years. In 2005, they purchased a second home in the Saugatuck/Douglas area which they loved and enjoyed for years. In 2016, they both decided to permanently relocate to West, Michigan. After 27.5 years with McDonald’s, he pursued his interests in Real Estate…and has been enjoying it eight years later. They have two little Havanese Fur Babies, Rex (5 yrs old) and Max (4 years old). His partner and Kevin love spending time with their little fur babies, vacationing, sharing time with friends, meeting new people, and enjoying life to the best of their ability. If anyone should have any Real Estate needs, Kevin can help anywhere in Michigan, and even assist anywhere in the US.

Best wishes for happiness, good health, and good/memorable times.

Kevin Putnam…with Kevin & Sarah, Coastal Living Advisors Email is… KevinandSarah@CoastalLivingAdvisors.com Website is… https://www.coastallivingadvisors.com Contact Number is… (586)524-3462.

Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan

• Location: Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, in Allegan County, Michigan. 
• Nickname: "The Art Coast of Michigan" due to its thriving art scene and numerous art galleries. 
• Population: Around 865 residents (city of Saugatuck) but the area attracts many tourists throughout the year.
• Beaches: Award-winning beaches with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. 
• Outdoor activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing are popular options. 
• Wineries and breweries: Sample local wines and craft beers at the many wineries and breweries in the area. 
• Art scene: Explore the numerous art galleries, studios, and museums showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
• Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Saugatuck/Douglas hosts a variety of festivals and events, including the Saugatuck Art Fair, the Saugatuck Boat Show, and the Douglas Winter Fest. 
• Dining: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering fresh, seasonal cuisine. 
• Shopping: Find unique gifts and souvenirs at the many shops and boutiques in Saugatuck/Douglas. 
• Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds to suit your needs and budget.

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Support the show

If you enjoy these podcasts, please make a donation by clicking the coffee cup on any page of our website www.wheredogaysretire.com. Each cup of coffee costs $5 and goes towards bringing you these podcasts in the future.

If you or you know someone who is interested in being a guest on the podcast, please contact me at mark@wheredogaysretire.com.

Please join our Where Do Gays Retire Facebook group at

This episode of the Where Do Gays Retire Podcast features an insightful discussion comparing retirement options in Spain and Portugal, focusing on the towns of Olvera and Elvas Vila Buim. Hosts Mark Goldstein, Bruce Joffe, and Russ Warren explore various aspects of living in these regions, including the friendly LGBTQ+ environment, cost of living, healthcare, and the vibrant local culture. They emphasize the importance of doing thorough research before making a move, highlighting the unique visa requirements and residency processes in both countries. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the lifestyle differences, climate, and community dynamics that make each location appealing for retirement. The conversation is both informative and engaging, sprinkled with humor and personal anecdotes that bring the experience of relocating to life.

Listeners are treated to a comprehensive overview of the LGBTQ retirement landscape in Southern Europe, as Bruce Joffe and Russ Warren engage in a lively discussion about their experiences in Spain and Portugal. The episode covers a breadth of topics, including climate differences, cost of living, and the vibrancy of local LGBTQ communities. The guests emphasize the significance of community support and the welcoming nature of both cultures. They provide listeners with valuable tips on navigating the visa application processes, particularly the non-lucrative D7 visa in Portugal, which allows for retirement without the necessity of employment. Furthermore, they explore the social dynamics and safety of living in these regions, painting a picture of a life filled with joy, camaraderie, and cultural richness, making it clear that both countries offer unique opportunities for a fulfilling retirement.

Takeaways:

• The podcast highlights the challenges and benefits of retiring in Spain versus Portugal, focusing on climate, culture, and lifestyle.
• Mark Goldstein interviews Bruce Joffe and Russ Warren, who share insights about their experiences living as LGBTQ+ retirees in Europe.
• Listeners learn about the significant differences in residency requirements for retirees in Spain and Portugal.
• Bruce emphasizes the importance of doing thorough research before making retirement decisions in foreign countries.
• The hosts discuss the welcoming nature of both Spain and Portugal towards LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting inclusivity.
• Cost of living comparisons reveal that Portugal may be more affordable than Spain for retirees.

Bruce Joffe Bio

Pastor, professor, publisher, and journalist Bruce H. Joffe is an award-winning author of magazine features, academic research, journal articles, self-help manuals, and newspaper stories. His nine books deal with international (intercultural) living, progressive theology, gender studies, “social” politics, our vulnerabilities, marketing, and the media. 

More than six years ago, Bruce relocated from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, to the European Union, dividing his time between Portugal and Spain.

Portugal Living Facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/451204043309681

Portalegre People Facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/288581375359604

People of Faith Online Spiritual Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/303381510793586

“EXACTLY!”: Pastor Bruce’s Bodacious Blog

Summary/Intro

The podcast episode delves into the experiences of LGBTQ retirees living in Malaga and Valencia, Spain, highlighting the allure of these Spanish cities for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive retirement destination. Host Mark Goldstein engages with guests Steve Aronberg from Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli from Valencia, who share insights about the climate, cost of living, healthcare, and the welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ individuals. Both cities boast a high quality of life, affordable living costs, excellent healthcare systems, and a rich cultural landscape, making them attractive options for expatriates. The discussion also touches on practical aspects such as obtaining residency, navigating Spanish bureaucracy, and the minimal crime rates, underscoring the safety and comfort of living in Spain. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode offers valuable guidance for those considering a move to these sun-soaked destinations.

Show Notes

Exploring the nuances of retirement in Spain, Mark Goldstein hosts an engaging dialogue featuring insights from Steve Aronberg in Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli in Valencia. This installment of the "Where Do Gays Retire?" podcast offers a comprehensive look at the factors influencing expatriates' choice of retirement location, from climate and geography to local culture and real estate.

Steve shares his experience of Malaga's sunny Mediterranean climate and its appeal to retirees seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle. He discusses the region's cultural richness, including its lively arts scene and historical landmarks. Dave and Jesus highlight Valencia's affordability and flat terrain, making it an ideal place for walking and cycling. They emphasize the vibrant food culture, where local markets and diverse dining options abound, offering a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.

The episode also addresses the practical aspects of living abroad, such as healthcare and language barriers, while reassuring listeners about the safety and inclusivity of both cities. Both locations are portrayed as welcoming to the LGBTQ community, with a sense of acceptance and integration into the broader society. The discussion encourages potential retirees to explore different parts of Spain to find a location that aligns with their personal and financial needs, highlighting the benefits of a slower-paced, culturally rich lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores two Spanish cities, Malaga and Valencia, as potential retirement destinations for the LGBTQ community.
• Malaga offers a sunny climate with 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an attractive place to live outdoors.
• Valencia is a flat, walkable city with a low cost of living. It is famous for its rice dishes, such as paella.
• Malaga and Valencia have vibrant LGBTQ-friendly communities and are very accepting of diversity.
• The healthcare system in Spain is affordable and accessible, with private insurance options for non-residents.
• Spain is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a lack of gun culture, providing peace of mind.

Steve Aronberg

He was born in Nuremberg, Germany. His dad was in the army and stationed there. His dad proposed to his mom, who flew over to get married. He spent all his teen years in New Bedford, MA, and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst with a degree in Business Administration.

His entire career was with the U.S. Federal government, and he spent his last 25 years working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is a strong proponent of equality and was fortunate to spend most of his working career supporting civil rights. He was also fortunate to retire at the young age of 55.

During his career, he lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area and worked in...

Discover the unique advantages of retiring in Vancouver, Washington, as Gary Beagle shares his insights on the area's vibrant LGBTQ community, affordable living, and stunning natural surroundings. With no state income tax and reasonable housing costs, Vancouver presents an attractive option for those looking to settle down in a welcoming environment. Gary discusses the moderate climate, excellent healthcare facilities, and the array of outdoor activities available, making it an ideal place for retirees. He also highlights the city's cultural scene, including local events and diverse dining options that cater to various tastes. Join us as we explore what makes Vancouver a hidden gem for those in the LGBTQ community seeking a safe and fulfilling retirement.

Vancouver, Washington, emerges as a beacon for retirees in the LGBTQ+ community in a lively dialogue between Mark Goldstein and Gary Beagle. Gary, a well-established figure in the local community, shares his personal story and professional insights that weave together the allure of this Pacific Northwest city. The conversation touches on Vancouver's inviting atmosphere, which is complemented by its absence of a state income tax, making it financially appealing for those looking to stretch their retirement dollars. Gary emphasizes the city’s favorable climate, which allows for year-round outdoor activities, from hiking in nearby mountains to enjoying the stunning Oregon coast just a short drive away. The discussion also paints a vivid picture of what life is like in Vancouver, with a focus on its natural beauty, vibrant parks, and the moderate temperatures that characterize the region.

The episode further explores the cultural and social dimensions of life in Vancouver, highlighting the active LGBTQ+ scene that thrives alongside a welcoming community. Gary discusses the various events and local establishments that cater to diverse interests, along with the safety and acceptance experienced by residents. This is particularly significant for LGBTQ+ retirees who seek a community where they can live openly and comfortably. Mark and Gary also touch on the healthcare landscape, noting the availability of LGBTQ-friendly medical services and the accessibility of healthcare providers, which is crucial for retirees. With a blend of personal anecdotes, practical information, and engaging narratives, this episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone considering a move to Vancouver, Washington, showcasing why it is an ideal retirement destination.

Takeaways:

• Vancouver, Washington offers a welcoming environment for retirees, particularly within the LGBTQ community.
• The cost of living in Vancouver is 11% lower than other cities in Washington.
• Air conditioning is becoming more common in homes due to increasing summer temperatures.
• Vancouver has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with various events and venues available.
• Health care in Vancouver is highly rated, with LGBTQ-friendly providers accessible to residents.
• The city has made significant strides in addressing homelessness through community initiatives.

Fort Collins, Colorado, is showcased as an ideal retirement destination for LGBTQ individuals in this enlightening episode of the Where Do Gays Retire Podcast. Mark Goldstein, the host, guides listeners through the city's unique offerings, emphasizing its welcoming atmosphere and strong LGBTQ community, which comprises nearly 9% of its population. The discussion highlights Fort Collins' only gay bar, celebrated for its quality and inclusive vibe, reinforcing the community's support system. Goldstein points out the city’s perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index, a testament to its commitment to equality and inclusivity—important factors for retirees seeking a safe and friendly environment.

Exploring the climate, the episode reveals that Fort Collins enjoys an average of 237 sunny days per year, complemented by a delightful mix of seasonal activities for both summer and winter enthusiasts. The city's reputation as a biking paradise is underscored with its platinum designation for cycling infrastructure, making it easy for residents to navigate without a vehicle. While the cost of living is slightly above the national average, the abundance of dining options, including over 600 restaurants, and a rich cultural scene offset this expense. Goldstein illustrates how the lively downtown area, with its walkability and vibrant atmosphere, makes Fort Collins a charming place for retirees.

Listeners are introduced to the city's dynamic arts and culture scene, featuring venues like the Lincoln Center and various live music events that enrich community life. The influence of Colorado State University is also discussed, highlighting how it contributes to the diverse and energetic vibe of Fort Collins. With numerous resources available for LGBTQ seniors, including active senior centers and quality healthcare services, the episode paints a comprehensive picture of Fort Collins as not just a retirement destination, but a community where LGBTQ retirees can thrive, feel safe, and engage in a fulfilling lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• Fort Collins, Colorado is a vibrant city with a strong LGBTQ community, offering inclusivity and safety.
• The city boasts a high number of sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.
• Fort Collins is renowned for its craft beer scene, home to over 20 breweries.
• Fort Collins's living cost is higher than the national average, especially housing.
• Colorado has recently strengthened its abortion rights and marriage equality protections, emphasizing inclusivity.
• Transportation in Fort Collins is bicycle-friendly, with a strong network for cyclists and upcoming rail connections.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• New Belgium Brewing
• Odell Brewing Co.

Summary

Climate change is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a retirement destination, especially for the LGBTQ community seeking both safety and inclusivity. In this engaging episode of "Where Do Gays Retire?" host Mark Goldstein explores various U.S. cities that stand out for their proactive approaches to climate change mitigation. From the eco-conscious vibes of Portland, Oregon, to the wind-powered ambitions of Chicago, Illinois, each city is committed to sustainability while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ community. Mark also highlights affordable cities with minimal climate risks, such as Madison, Wisconsin, and Burlington, Vermont, where retirees can enjoy a progressive lifestyle without breaking the bank. For those considering international options, cities like Lisbon, Portugal, and Auckland, New Zealand, emerge as top contenders, offering charm, affordability, and vibrant LGBTQ scenes without the looming threat of climate chaos.

Show Notes

Exploring the intersection of climate change and retirement, Mark Goldstein delves into the best cities for LGBTQ retirees seeking sustainable and inclusive environments. Focusing on proactive and affordable cities, the episode covers key factors like municipal equality scores and climate resilience. Cities like Austin and Chicago are praised for their green initiatives, while Madison and Burlington are noted for their affordability and safety from climate extremes. The narrative offers a blend of humor and practical advice, emphasizing the importance of choosing a city that aligns with one's values and is resilient against climate challenges. The episode concludes with a look at international destinations, providing a global perspective on retirement options.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheredogaysretire.com

"Meet Kurt Becker, a seasoned public health professional with a rich journey of dedication and impact. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Kurt earned dual degrees in broadcasting and developmental psychology from Tompkins Cortland Community College. After moving to Las Cruces, New Mexico, he finished courses at New Mexico State University and graduated from SUNY Cortland in 1994 with a bachelor of science in psychology.

Kurt's commitment to community health began in Las Cruces, where he served as a Health Educator for Families and Youth. Notably, he initiated an LGBTQ+ youth group, 'The Next Rainbow Generation,' orchestrating remarkable initiatives such as raising funds to showcase the largest ever NAMES Project AIDS memorial quilt in southern New Mexico, spanning over 15,000 square feet. Kurt and his youth also pioneered 'Not Your Mom's Prom,' one of the area's first alternative proms.

 In 1999, Kurt's journey led him to Austin, Texas, where he assumed the role of the City's Coordinator for Ryan White funds, overseeing the distribution of over $4 million annually. In 2006, he became the immunization manager for the City of Austin and Travis County. He successfully secured a $12 million grant to provide easy and free access to vaccines for at-risk adults.

In 2021 Kurt retired from the City of Austin and returned to his roots in Ithaca with his husband of 15 years, Jose. Nestled on 1.5 green acres, they share their home with their two dogs, Molly and Heidi." 

**Ithaca, New York Quick Facts:**

- **Location:**

 - Located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, in the northeastern United States.

 - Approximately 225 miles northwest of New York City 

- **Geography:**

 - Surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes, including gorges, waterfalls, and Cayuga Lake.

 - Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College.

- **Climate:**

 - Experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.

 - Average winter temperatures range from -1 to -8°C (30 to 18°F), while summer temperatures range from 14 to 27°C (57 to 80°F).

- **Cost of Living:**

 - The cost of living is moderate, with housing costs being a significant factor.

 The average price of a single-family home varies but may range from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on the neighborhood and size.

- **Arts and Culture:**

 - Vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events.

 - Hosts festivals, including the Ithaca Festival and the Finger Lakes International Film Festival.

- **LGBTQ+ Community:**

 - Ithaca is known for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity and progressive values.

 - Supportive community with LGBTQ+ events and organizations.

- **Healthcare:**

 - Access to healthcare through local hospitals and clinics.

 - Presence of medical facilities associated with Cornell University.

- **Crime and Safety:**

 - Generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate.

Mark Goldstein hosts a vibrant discussion on retirement options within the LGBTQ community, focusing on the contrasting cities of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Tucson, Arizona. The episode features insights from prominent guests Pam Myers and Jeff Schucart, who share their personal relocation experiences to these cities. The conversation starts with comparing each city's climate, cost of living, and safety, providing a comprehensive analysis for those contemplating retirement in a welcoming environment. Both guests highlight the unique charm of their chosen cities, emphasizing the importance of community, cultural activities, and a supportive atmosphere for LGBTQ individuals. Pam discusses Albuquerque's artistic and cultural offerings, mentioning its recognition as a top food destination and the city's vibrant pride events. Meanwhile, Jeff outlines Tucson's diverse culinary scene and rich outdoor activities, suggesting that both cities offer a plethora of opportunities for engagement and socialization. Listeners are left with valuable advice on making informed decisions about their retirement locations and a sense of optimism about the welcoming nature of these cities for the LGBTQ community.

Takeaways:

• Mark Goldstein hosts a vibrant discussion comparing the unique aspects of retirement in Albuquerque and Tucson, emphasizing climate, culture, and community.
• Pam Myers shares her deep passion for Albuquerque's rich arts scene and diverse food culture, especially its famous chili cuisine.
• Jeff Schukart highlights Tucson's recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, showcasing its culinary diversity and vibrant local dining options.
• Both guests emphasize the importance of community and inclusiveness within the LGBTQ population in their respective cities, fostering connections.
• The conversation touches on the rising cost of living and housing market trends in both cities, highlighting affordability for retirees.
• Listeners gain insights into healthcare access and the importance of considering crime rates when choosing a retirement destination.

pamm meyers

Pamm Meyers is a storyteller, dynamic leader, and advocate dedicated to fostering prosperity within the LGBTQIA community through business innovation and social advocacy. With a multifaceted background, Pamm has become a trailblazer in various fields, leaving an indelible mark on New Mexico’s LGBTQIA and business communities.

As CEO of Go Social, Pamm Meyers is at the forefront of digital marketing and podcasting solutions for business owners and organizations. Her visionary approach has empowered countless ventures to harness social media's potential, unlocking new avenues for growth and engagement. Pamm is a driving force behind her clients’ success, leveraging the power of connectivity to elevate their brands through digital marketing and podcasting.

Pamm is also the managing partner of Two Flower Productions, a podcasting company that produces “Lip Service: The Podcast of Our Coming Out Stories” https://lipservice.media, which boasts over 4,800 subscribers in 39 countries, and “3Q: New Mexico’s Business Podcast” https://3qnm.com, which has over 4,439 subscribers in New Mexico.

Previously, Pamm served as the Executive Director of the New Mexico Out Business Alliance. She is currently a Board Advisor for the Way Out West Film Fest https://wayoutwestfilmfest.com/ and the Albuquerque Community Foundation Pride Circle https://abqcf.org/pride-circle/, supporting the LGBTQIA community through...

Pat Nelson is a retired Dean of Education. She served as a professor and dean at several universities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Penn State, and the University of Akron. She is a Christa McAuliffe National Fellow for Education and an Anne Lister diary decoder.

Patty Book is a retired academic administrator who has served as vice president of continuing education and distance education at several universities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Penn State, Kent State, and the American Council on Education in DC. She is also an Anne Lister diary decoder.

Summary

In this conversation, Mark Goldstein interviews Patty Book and Pat Nelson about their experiences living in Fort Collins, Colorado, as retirees. They discuss the city's climate, geography, cost of living, healthcare services, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The guests highlight the community's friendliness, outdoor activities, and the importance of climate action. They also touch on the LGBTQ-friendly environment and the various amenities available for seniors, making Fort Collins an attractive place for retirement.

Takeaways

Fort Collins boasts 300 days of sunshine annually.

The city has a moderate four-season climate with low humidity.

Climate change has led to more hot days and droughts in the area.

Fort Collins is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.

The cost of living has increased, with median home prices around $550,000.

Transportation is accessible, with a robust public transit system and bike-friendly infrastructure.

The vibrant arts and culture scene has numerous galleries, theaters, and music festivals.

Safety is a priority, with low crime rates reported in the community.

Healthcare services are excellent, with multiple hospitals and specialized care available.

The community is inclusive and welcoming, particularly for the LGBTQ population.

Brent grew up in the college town of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and is the son of a teacher/school administrator (dad) and a successful real estate broker (mom). 

On a family trip to NYC when Brent was in grade school, he saw Ethel Merman in Hello, Dolly! This sparked a love of theater and eventually a move to Manhattan to pursue a career in musical theater. Brent has performed off-Broadway, in regional theaters across the US, and on cruise ships worldwide for over ten years. In the late 1990s, Brent left the theater and began working in non-profit administration, spending almost 20 years as the business manager for a Nobel laureate in a research laboratory at Rockefeller University.

A friend from his theater days introduced Brent to Asbury Park, NJ, in the early 2000s when the city changed from a gritty ghost town to a Jersey Shore Mecca for gays wanting to nab an affordable house near the beach. After many vacation trips to Asbury, Brent and his husband bought their first shore home in 2011.

Brent retired early at the end of the pandemic and started a new career in real estate, following in his mother’s footsteps. He enjoys making many new friends, as his mother did, and helping to find the perfect shore home for his clients.

Brent enjoys small-town life. Now in his third Asbury home, he lives with his husband Joe, also a former actor turned non-profit professional, and their mini-Aussiedoodle Dickens.

Summary

Brent Winborn shares his journey to Asbury Park, New Jersey, highlighting the city's transformation from a gritty ghost town to a vibrant LGBTQ+ mecca.

He describes Asbury Park's geographical overview, unique perspectives, and proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Brent also discusses the climate, which has four seasons but milder winters and longer fall periods.

He emphasizes the strong LGBTQ+ community in Asbury Park, the presence of gay bars and hotels, and the sense of community and acceptance.

Brent also provides insights into the cost of living, including home prices, rentals, utilities, and groceries. Asbury Park offers diverse housing options, from newer condos to renovated older buildings.

The vibrant cultural scene has festivals, music events, theaters, and galleries.

The restaurant scene is diverse, with options ranging from dive bar burgers to high-end dining.

Asbury Park is a walkable city, and while public transportation is limited, e-scooters and e-bikes are popular for getting around. Safety is not a major concern, and excellent healthcare facilities are nearby.

Challenges include parking availability and the need for more hotels. Overall, Asbury Park offers a unique small-town atmosphere with an urban feel.

For NJ State Tax info on Social Security, Pensions, 401K's and IRA's

Is There an E Street? Where?

E Street runs northeast through the New Jersey shore town of Belmar. According to Springsteen lore, the band took its name from the street because original keyboard player David Sancious's mother lived there and allowed the band to rehearse in her house. The titular avenue of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" is also in Belmar.

Dwayne was born/raised in the northern Utah area (Ogden, north of SLC) and also spent time in southern California (Oxnard)

He was educated in Utah through high school, and went to Weber State University, majoring in Architecture, but discontinued his education. 

Raised in the area's predominant religion (Latter Day Saints, Mormon) Served a church mission to So. Korea. Has since left organized religion.

They have been in a relationship since 1987, They were legally married in Oakland CA, when it was legal in California and then again In Salt Lake after the federal recognition of same-sex marriage.

His employment is in Fire Protection and he worked in the Salt Lake area for 8yr and currently in the Oakland/San Francisco CA area (27 years) but remains living in SLC Utah. 

He has lived in downtown Salt Lake since 2002. They recently sold our condo there and live in South Ogden. He enjoyed the SLC community/vibe since he's a city guy, but his husband is not so much!

He was part of the neighborhood community, and also supported the gay community but was not active/involved in the community.

He has already planned for retirement locations and has a tiny home in Littlefield AZ (a sliver of Arizona between Utah and Nevada) and a place in Baltimore MD. 

They chose to remain in Northern Utah for our primary retirement location.

Hobbies are camping (maybe considered glamping! LOL), hiking in summer, snowshoeing in winter, riding side by side in the mountains and desert, attending local car shows, local community festivals, small venue music concerts, and evenings with friends enjoying dinner and wine.

I'm still working, but I enjoy traveling when we can (when I can) to different places around the country and sometimes the world. 

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of Utah, United States. It is the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. 

Salt Lake City, state capital and seat (1849) of Salt Lake County, north-central Utah, U.S., situated on the Jordan River at the southeastern end of Great Salt Lake.

Summary of cost of living in Salt Lake City, UT, United States: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,766.4$ without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are 1,047.8$ without rent. Salt Lake City is 30.6% less expensive than New York (without rent). 

Rick retired on Dec 31 2023 with 35 years and 21 Emmy Awards under his belt as a producer, writer, and director. 

He began his work as a public service when he was elected as Dane County WI County Board Supervisor for which he will aim for reelection on 4/2/24. 

He is an advocate for the disenfranchised serving as a CASA volunteer in 3 states, as co-chair of Pride In Prevention, focused on harm reduction within the queer PWUD community, and as a fierce feminist.

He also writes regularly for The Word In Season, a daily Christian devotional that is translated into 30 languages. He lives in Madison, WI having moved there from Shreveport, LA.

Summary

Rick Rose, a retired producer, writer, and director, discusses his move from Shreveport, Louisiana to Madison, Wisconsin. He shares his reasons for choosing Madison and talks about the climate and amount of snow in the area. Rick also discusses the LGBTQ+ community in Madison and the absence of a specific gayborhood.

He highlights the growth and economy of Madison, the ease of making friends, and the presence of arts and culture in the city.

Rick also mentions the local food and dining scene in Madison. Madison, Wisconsin has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with a thriving comedy community and a diverse range of performances and events.

The city also has a strong public transportation system, with options for biking, electric transportation, and plans for an Amtrak center.

Healthcare in Madison is highly regarded, with access to quality providers and affordable insurance options.

While crime exists, Madison is considered a safe city overall. The city also has a significant Native American community and is working towards preserving and promoting Native American culture and tourism.

Takeaways

Madison, Wisconsin offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to retire.

The city experiences a wide range of weather, including hot and humid summers and snowy winters.

While Madison does not have a designated gayborhood, it is known for its progressive and inclusive community.

The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with opportunities to enjoy live music, theater, and visual arts.

The cost of living in Madison can be high, with average home prices and rental rates above the national average. 

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Summary

• Nancy Schneider, a Philadelphia retiree shares her experience of retiring in the city.
• Philadelphia is located on the East Coast of Pennsylvania, with easy access to New York City, Washington DC, and the Jersey coast.
• The city has a temperate climate and offers a variety of quick getaways, including New York, the Jersey Shore, and nearby gay towns like New Hope and Rehoboth.
• Philadelphia has a vibrant LGBTQ neighborhood known as the Gayborhood, but being gay is accepted throughout the city.
• The city has a rich arts and
• culture scene, with attractions like the Kimmel Center, Walnut Street Theater, Museum of Art, Barnes Museum, and more.
• The cost of living in Philadelphia varies depending on the neighborhood, but there are affordable options available.
• The city is walkable and offers convenient public transportation options.
• Philadelphia's food scene is exceptional and offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, African, and more.
• The city is known for its sports culture, with basketball, football, and baseball being popular.
• Crime is a factor to consider, but the new mayor is taking action to address it.
• Philadelphia has excellent healthcare options, with renowned hospitals and a high number of doctors.
• The city has an urban lifestyle with walkability and access to arts, culture, and entertainment.
• Philadelphia offers easy access to travel, including an international airport.
• Pennsylvania offers tax benefits for retirees, including tax exemptions for retirement income, 401K withdrawals, IRAs, pensions, and social security. The state has the lowest flat tax rate in the country and provides property tax and rent rebate programs. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly below the national average, and the average sales tax rate is 6.17%.
• Transportation savings include discounts on auto insurance for drivers aged 55+, free bus, subway, and trolley rides for seniors over 65, $1 regional rail rides during off-peak hours, and discounted bridge tolls for drivers aged 65+ with a New Jersey EZPass.
• Overall, Philadelphia is considered a hidden gem in the Northeast.

Check out this link and video about LGBTQ+ healthcare at Cooper at Cooper University HealthCare in South New Jersey. (3.7 miles and 14 minutes from Philadelphia) https://www.cooperhealth.org/services/cooper-proud-lgbtq-health?utm_source=pgn&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PGN

Discover the hidden gems of retirement in Europe as we explore Olvera, Spain, and Elvas, Portugal, two charming towns that offer safety, affordability, and a vibrant LGBTQ community. With their stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming atmospheres, both locations provide an appealing alternative for those looking to retire abroad. Join Mark Goldstein as he delves into the local climate, cost of living, and LGBTQ resources, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. From the sun-soaked streets of Olvera to the historic allure of Elvas, you'll learn why these destinations are perfect for retirees seeking a picturesque lifestyle. Tune in for insights on visas, walkability, and the local culinary scene that will make these towns feel like home.

Takeaways:

• Olvera, Spain and Elvas, Portugal are two charming towns ideal for LGBTQ retirees.
• Both towns boast low property taxes and affordable living costs compared to US standards.
• Olvera enjoys 300 sunny days per year, making it perfect for sun lovers.
• Elvas offers a rich cultural experience with its UNESCO-recognized historical sites.
• LGBTQ communities in both Spain and Portugal are known for their inclusivity and safety.
• Understanding visa options is crucial for retirees considering living in Spain or Portugal.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheretogaysretire.com

Renato is a Bolivian entrepreneur who currently resides in Madrid.

He has a passion for languages and has found a way to make money from it.

In addition to being multilingual, he also has a fondness for the arts, particularly pottery and music. He played in the orchestra of his city in Bolivia and Spain for approximately 5 years.

Renato was born in Japan, then moved to Bolivia where he studied until he was 16 years old. He finished his high school education in Logroño, Spain, and in 2022 he moved to Madrid to start his Spanish school. But instead of giving up, he kept trying and now he is the principal of his school in the center of Madrid.

Renato enjoys traveling around the world and is planning to retire at the young age of 25 if everything goes according to plan.

Summary

Renato Padilla, a Bolivian entrepreneur in Madrid, shares his experiences and insights about living and retiring in Madrid, Spain.

He discusses his background, the reasons for choosing Madrid, the LGBTQ+ community in the city, the importance of learning Spanish, and the local economy and housing costs.

Renato also provides information about Madrid's geography, climate, and utility costs. Madrid offers high-quality public services, including healthcare and education, funded by high taxes.

The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, museums, and live performances. Madrid is a food lover's paradise, offering various cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, French, Ethiopian, and more.

The city has excellent public transportation, including local trains, high-speed bullet trains, buses, and a metro system.

While pickpocketing can be a concern, overall, Madrid is considered a safe city. Renato shares insights about safety, healthcare, visas, and living in Madrid in this conversation.

He recounts a personal experience of losing his wallet and how it was returned to him, highlighting the honesty and safety in the city.

Renato discusses the healthcare system in Madrid, emphasizing the accessibility and affordability of both private and public options. He also provides information about obtaining a visa, particularly the non-lucrative visa for retirees. Renato mentions the importance of understanding the different autonomous regions in Spain and their varying rules and taxes. He concludes by offering advice for those considering relocating to Madrid.

Unveiling the Tapestry of Madrid, Spain: A Quick Guide

Bustling Heart of Spain: Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital city, pulsates with energy. As the country's largest metropolis (population: 3.3 million).

Climate and Geography: Nestled on a central plateau at over 2,000 feet, Madrid experiences distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for strolling through charming plazas or exploring verdant parks like El Retiro. Winters tend to be crisp, with occasional snowfall.

Getting Around: Madrid is a pedestrian's paradise. Many historic areas are best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the architectural grandeur and vibrant street life. A comprehensive public transportation network offers efficient travel via metro, buses, and trams for longer distances.

A Welcoming Embrace for the LGBTQ+ Community: Madrid has long championed LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a thriving and inclusive community. The city explodes with rainbow colors during the annual Pride celebration, one of the largest in Europe. Numerous LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and cultural centers provide safe spaces for connection and self-expression.

A Feast for the Senses: Arts & Culture: World-renowned museums like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofía Museum house masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso. The city's energy extends beyond museums, with captivating flamenco performances,

Wondering about retirement in Providence, Rhode Island? This podcast explores the vibrant LGBTQ community in the city, featuring insights from Tim McCormick, a seasoned resident who has returned after years of living in various cities across the U.S. Tim discusses the improvements in Providence over the years, including its welcoming atmosphere and diverse neighborhoods, while also shedding light on the challenges newcomers may face, such as housing and the need for accessible living options. The conversation dives into the cost of living, healthcare accessibility, and the rich cultural scene, highlighting the city's arts, dining, and outdoor activities. Focusing on the local community and practical advice for retirees, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what makes Providence a unique place for the LGBTQ population to thrive.

Tim McCormick’s insights into Providence, Rhode Island, serve as a captivating exploration of a city rich in history and evolving social dynamics, particularly for the LGBTQ community. The podcast unpacks Tim's journey back to Providence, where he reflects on the significant changes the city has undergone over the years. With a historical lens, he recounts a time when homosexuality was not only stigmatized but also criminalized, transitioning to a contemporary environment where LGBTQ rights are celebrated and protected. This transformation is rooted deeply in the city's cultural fabric, making it a welcoming destination for retirees seeking a sense of belonging and community.

The conversation navigates through essential aspects of retirement living in Providence, from the cost of living to healthcare facilities. Tim provides a detailed overview of the current real estate market, which has seen an uptick in prices but still offers diverse housing options for those looking to settle down. His focus on accessibility highlights the challenges seniors may face in navigating the city’s historic neighborhoods, underscoring the importance of selecting residences that accommodate their needs as they age. Moreover, the podcast delves into healthcare, emphasizing the presence of reputable hospitals and LGBTQ-focused clinics, ensuring that retirees have access to necessary medical care tailored to their unique circumstances.

Beyond the practical considerations, the podcast shines a light on the vibrant social fabric of Providence. With many LGBTQ-friendly events, community groups, and recreational activities, the city fosters a sense of camaraderie and engagement among its residents. Tim encourages listeners to immerse themselves in the local culture, highlighting events such as Pride parades and artistic exhibitions celebrating diversity. Through his narrative, the podcast paints a vivid picture of a city that embraces its historical roots and thrives on its progressive values, making it an ideal locale for LGBTQ retirees looking to build a fulfilling life in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Takeaways:

• Providence, Rhode Island, offers a rich history of LGBTQ acceptance and community support.
• The city has seen significant improvements in safety and infrastructure over the past decades.
• Healthcare in Providence is generally accessible, but finding new patient appointments can be challenging.
• The cost of living in Providence has risen, but it remains below national averages overall.
• Providence's vibrant arts scene thrives with numerous events and cultural offerings year-round.
• Outdoor activities are abundant, with parks and waterfront access appealing to retirees.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheredogaysretire.com
• queerri.com