Why Nicaragua? Our criteria were three: We wanted to create an environment where our boys would come and visit (i.e. close enough to Chicago, our U.S. home base) and where they could over time develop some Spanish language capability which we deemed critical for their professional and personal development; We wanted an affordable place in the sun, rich with architectural beauty in the city and natural beauty in the surrounding countryside and beaches; And we wanted a country where we felt our skills set could be put to good use in some way – Nicaragua, the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere certainly had plenty of opportunities for both social and environmental impact.
So in preparation of a future as “empty nesters”, we visited the country several times, bought a small property in the heart of the historic district, designed and built our dream house within 6 months, and started to travel there over a period of 3 years as often as we could get time away from our work and could afford the tickets, while the boys finished high school.
The very next week after our youngest graduated high school, we packed our bags, sold the bulk of our “stuff” accumulated over years, reached a deal with the bank that held our mortgage, bought one way tickets, and were on our way to Granada, Nicaragua, with our two dogs.
The experience of living abroad is exponentially richer as one engages directly with the community, rather than life on the periphery as detached “expats”. No longer tourists taking in the sights of our beautiful new town, we wanted to become actors, not mere observers.
We did a quick inventory of what assets we could bring to our new community in Granada, at relatively minor cost and relatively quickly. We settled on the idea of leveraging my skills set as a painter.
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Wow. What a fascinating adventure. I find it highly commendable that you are able to follow your dreams of exploring the world while helping others. Keep up the good work.
I also say Wow! What a story. You two are a force of nature. I'm both impressed and moved by your story.
Alison
Thanks for the positive feedback Peter and Alison!
Hope you will both follow our blog for ongoing adventures. Alison, please email me and I will send you updates directly. You know we will meet one day!