I heard from a native here, that the best way to see Antigua is to wander. "Take your time and go through the small streets. People are friendly. Say hello. Let Antigua into your heart."

Traveling brings about lots of challenges in daily living, and flexibility is the key to going with the flow. My last physical was in Chiang Mai, Thailand where, as they say, “everything OK.” But it had been two years ago, so I was feeling the need for having blood work done.

Here we are, well into our 31st. year of financial independence, and according to the pundits it wasn’t suppose to be this way. We were supposed to run out of money, the 4% rule doesn’t work, and we would be bored. Yet, we’re still going strong. What do we know that they don’t?

As we walk down the hall, a perky lady meets us halfway. I'm speaking Spanish and Itza, the owner is easy going and engaging. We discuss the rooms, whether or not there is WiFi, hot water, what about the beds, are they firm? and all of our questions are answered to our liking.

We’re still writing stories - An' we’re still telling tales We’re still learning languages - We've set our own sails We’re still investing in stocks and we’re makin’ a little money - Cause in Thailand I was told, no money no honey We’re still sipping beers and we’re picking up some years - And we send you all good health and want to say We’re still here!

While taking a break from the sun and surf, relaxing in my hotel room in a tiny beach town on Mexico’s rugged Pacific Coast, my cell phone rang. ‘Howdy, Beautiful!’ my friend of four decades shouted from snow country, thousands of miles away. "Been watchin’ your website for years and I read all your stories. Love ‘em. But I thought you were retired!"

Billy takes you through a local park in Torreon, Cuahuila, Mexico. The Mexican state of Cuahuila borders the US state of Texas and the Mexican state of Durango. This city is quite a mixture of future and past, America and Mexico, modern and traditional. Check it out.

These days, no matter what the topic, the talk is all about sustainability.

Traveling is different than a two-week vacation in a beach resort. Visiting unique countries and landscapes with many unknown factors can be challenging - even in the best of times.

Cristiania Park in Chapala, Mexico, offers six of the finest maintained tennis courts in the lakeside area. Two sandpit volleyball courts are available daily. The fully stocked pro shop is open daily, and players of all levels are welcome and can easily find a match.

We take a ride in the tram in Torreon, Cuahuila, Mexico. Through town, up the hill, above the treetops to see the 3rd largest statue of Christ in Latin America! Enjoy the ride! Hear Gregorian chanting at the end. Peaceful.

If filling blocks of free time as you choose sounds exciting, if pulling out maps of the world stirs wanderlust, or if pursuing a hobby brings a smile to your face, take heart. You can retire early to spend your time as you want. We did!

Conquered in 1540 by the Spanish, Campeche quickly became a flourishing port. The Spanish discovered a dye in logwood, which grew in the forests near Campeche. This dye was considered a rare commodity and was highly prized in Europe and brought high prices on the European market.