@Jon *******

the markets have dropped about 14% since he became president. I’m talking about 20% from here.

@Jon *******

just wait until the bond market gets really spooked. That’ll cause a 20% drop in US equities.

@Jon *******

in that case god help us.

@Nongnuch *******

I’m only speaking geographically.

This is a universal issue. In I spent 6 months in the UK where everything, from a mobile phone to utility billing, requires a direct debit, i.e., a bank account. To rent an apartment the estate agents won’t deal with you if you haven’t got a bank account. There were many impediments to opening an account: you need a visa (according to some banks) but for a six month stay (American) you don’t need a visa. Catch 22, what?

I still managed to navigate my circumstances without a bank account for 4 months. Finally HSBC declared their willingness to open an account but by then i only had two months left in the country so I passed on it.

Being an American is another hazard because of the IRS’ overzealous reporting requirements on foreign banks that allow Americans to open an account. Lots of banks will have a blanket refusal to an American passport.

@Nongnuch *******

the keyword is Western.

The only country that gives you 6 months in Western Europe is the UK.

@Caress *****

I’m blocking you for sheer stupidity. I never want to see a comment from you.

I’ve actually spent a couple of winters in Mexico. It’s relatively straightforward for an American to simply move to Mexico. You get a 6 month visa on arrival. It’s quite easy to then qualify for Mexican residency. Although I know people who have been doing 6 month renewals infinitum.

As far as personal safety is concerned it often depends upon where you live. I spent 12 months in San Miguel de Allende, which is a remarkably safe and beautiful city with a lovely climate. Of course if you’re looking for a wife it may not be the place for you.

I’ve spent 6 winters in Thailand since 2010. Always from November till May. I’ve had two retirement visas. (OA). Never opened a bank account. I use credit cards, where possible, cash is easy to get and bank transfers can be used to pay things like rent. It’s eminently possible.