Nomad. The Word That Changed My Approach To Travel
Because Not All Who Wander Are Lost
I never really used the word nomad until last year. I had heard it before, but I imagined it as something from history books and stories about people who moved with the seasons. I certainly never pictured myself living that way. I always wanted to travel, but I never thought I could afford anything more than the occasional week-long escape. My retirement account is modest and my Social Security check will not even cover my property taxes. Extended travel felt like a dream meant for someone with a very different life.
The Week in Asheville That Changed Everything
That shift began during a week I spent volunteering in Asheville, North Carolina. I offered to help wherever I was needed and ended up in a warehouse overflowing with donations. Canned food jammed on shelves all over the place, clothing in uneven piles, boxes of diapers piled in a corner. I spent the day with 2 other volunteers getting it all in order. I had also brought cash from friends who wanted to support the community, and I was hoping to find the right place for it.
The warehouse was run by James, a tall, lanky man with a gentle presence. He spent his days helping families find what they needed, including temporary homes through donated travel trailers. One afternoon, I watched him sit with a woman who was clearly overwhelmed. He stayed with her for more than an hour even though the warehouse needed his attention. When I later handed him the donated money, he cried. A trailer meant for that woman had fallen through. She had 6 family members including her pregnant daughter-in-law living with her. That money eventually went towards securing a trailer for her family.
Realizing What Truly Brings Me Joy
During that week, something became clear. I had been thinking about moving abroad after retirement, imagining a quiet life somewhere far away. But being in Asheville, listening to people’s stories and offering help where I could, reminded me what fills me with purpose. I love connecting with people. I love being useful. I love being present in the lives of others, even if only for a moment.
Meeting My First Modern Nomad
Through my conversations with James, I learned that he was a nomad. He had come up from the Florida Keys after hearing about the destruction in the area. He told me about his life on the road and I felt something inside me light up. When I got home, I dove into researching this lifestyle and discovered that nomads come from every age, background and income level. Many are people like me, people who want to explore, live simply, and experience the world more deeply.
A Childhood Curiosity That Never Left Me
As a child, I lived for our monthly copy of National Geographic. I would pull out my Encyclopedia Britannica books and look up countries I had never heard of. I loved learning about people, animals and faraway places. I watched Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom every chance I got. That curiosity never really faded. So when I discovered the modern nomad lifestyle, I felt an instant sense of belonging.
Preparing for My Launch into Nomad Life
Since then, I have been researching everything I can about this lifestyle and about travel in general. My planned launch date is about 18 months away. To get there, I need to clear out a lifetime of belongings, close my business, and sell my house. Pray for me!
What This Blog Will Be
This blog will be my place to share what I learn and experience as I prepare for this next chapter. My hope is to help others like me, especially those on a tight budget who want to be true travelers and not just tourists. I want this space to offer practical guidance, honest stories, and encouragement for anyone dreaming of a more mobile life.
What We Will Explore Together
Inexpensive/free housing options including volunteering and house sitting
Ways to reduce travel costs
Ideas for funding your travels
Safety...especially for women who travel solo
How to handle visas, access money abroad, and use digital tools that make it all easier
How to meet other travelers and become part of local communities so you don’t feel so alone
And SO much more!
Let Us Take This Leap Together
I am inviting you to join me. Join me on this adventure. I want to live a life without regrets. What about you?
I plan for the content to be for any style of travel, but focused on people who are going slower, rather than the tourist route. And I'd love for you to join me at any time you want!
Hi Pamela, welcome to our world. We are international house sitters. Senior citizens on the run. Over five years now. Looking forward to following your journey. All the best. Rosie.