Hi Robert. Thanks. Glad to hear that you guys had a great time. That gives me some encouragement that we chose the right place for this first one. We’re really looking forward to it. BTW, sorry for the slow reply. I’ve been out of town. Thanks again for touching base. Let me know if there’s ever anyting I can do for you.

Sounds great! Keep me posted on how things go. I’m jealous since yours is for an entire year. BTW, there was an article in yesterday’s Wall Street Journal titled “The Case for a Midlife Gap Year.” I haven’t read it yet, but I thought you might want to check it out.

Just prepping the paperwork for the long-term visa that we’ll apply for in early 2014. We’re targeting the start of our adventure in July.

Great thoughts Mark! I’ll do some research on the local festivals and events. That sounds like a great way to connect with people and have an experience that goes beyond the “touristy.”

Thanks! Anything new on Spain?

Congratulations! You’re using a lot of “nuggets” my wife & I use. We’re 53, emptynesters. I’m not retired. Kudos for: VRBO -use it all the time (also, monthly rates can be lower); planning/buying way ahead & spreading out the credit card payments (we earmark additional funding from tax returns & bonuses). For the cheapest car rentals we “snag”/ cancel many times –up to 24 hrs before pickup). Consider monthly train passes (same, lower rate reason). It’s hard to completely leave work for a month. But, as you’ve written before -the computer has allowed people (like me!) to do & “be” anywhere…anywhere in the world. For planning to “experience a place” on extended adventures (immersing into the culture) –look into the very local festivals and events. These end up being our fondest memories.

Sounds like a plan!