In this episode of Nomads 50+, host Chris Kalaboukis sits down with Kimberly Anne from https://expatonabudget.com who made a life-changing pivot from running a successful acupuncture practice in the U.S. to embracing both van life and international living. Her story is one of courage, minimalism, and finding freedom after 50.
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Kimberly shares why she chose van life first—reducing her monthly expenses from $10,000 to just $2,000, exploring her own country before going abroad, and embracing a simpler way of living. She doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges: from equipment failures and unreliable internet to caring for her aging dog. But the rewards? Freedom, flexibility, and clarity about what truly matters.
Eventually, Kimberly traded her wheels for a new home base in Portugal. She walks us through her move to Porto, including navigating the visa process, finding an apartment, and setting up her consulting and writing business there. She also offers candid insights into Portugal’s universal healthcare system, the pros and cons of the NHR (non-habitual resident) tax scheme, and what it’s like to run a business as a foreigner.
Looking ahead, Kimberly hopes to one day buy a van in Portugal to continue exploring Europe. For now, she’s proof that even after major career shifts and life changes, it’s possible to build a fulfilling, sustainable nomadic lifestyle. Her advice for aspiring nomads? Be realistic about the challenges of minimalist living, but know that the rewards are “100% worth it.”
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