Living full‑time on the road as a digital‑nomad couple can feel like a radical escape, but for Michael Jensen and Brett Hardinger it became a practical response to political disillusionment, soaring living costs, and a desire for a more flexible, socially rich life. After selling their Seattle home in 2017, they have spent the past five years moving between countries, staying roughly one to three months in each place while working online as writers.
Leaving the United States
- The decision was sparked by the 2016 U.S. election; a “depressing election party” made them question staying in the country.
- They spent the following year preparing—selling their house, arranging finances, and setting up online work—before departing at the end of 2017.
Sustaining a Nomadic Lifestyle
- Both are professional writers (novels, screenplays, historical fiction, editing) and generate income through freelance writing and a travel newsletter, “Going Places.”
- Their work can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing them to avoid the high‑tech job market of Seattle that offered little financial upside for writers.
- They travel with only two backpacks, deliberately minimizing possessions to focus on experiences.
Cost of Living
- After moving, they discovered their expenses were roughly 50 % of what they paid in Seattle while maintaining the same income level.
- Lower costs extend to food, housing, and everyday services, making long‑term travel financially viable.
Traveling as an Openly Gay Couple
- Initial concerns centered on regions with poorer LGBTQ+ rights, such as Bulgaria. Research and local contacts showed that, for them, the issue was largely a non‑problem.
- In more conservative places (e.g., Istanbul), they practice discretion—avoiding public displays of affection—but emphasize respect for local customs.
- Their “white, Western, perceived‑wealthy” status often shields them from overt discrimination, though they stress the importance of being a respectful guest and reading the social “room.”
- They have never needed separate beds or special accommodations; personal safety remains the primary concern.
Favorite Destinations & Highlights
- Tbilisi, Georgia: Despite occasional LGBTQ+ tensions, they enjoyed the food (especially “khinkali” dumplings) and engaged with local pride organizers.
- Mexico City: Described as a “world‑class, endlessly fascinating” city close to home.
- Vietnam, Thailand, Switzerland, Italy (Lake Como, Chianti), Eastern Europe (Romania, Bulgaria, Czechia, Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia, North Macedonia).
- Over five years they have lived in 20+ countries and visited 50+ total, favoring secondary cities for authentic experiences and fewer tourists.
Social Life & Community
- Nomadic life has expanded their social network: they regularly meet other digital nomads and expats, attend local gatherings, and are welcomed into homes.
- The café culture and communal meals abroad contrast sharply with the “car‑based, fast‑paced” lifestyle they associate with many U.S. cities.
- They feel a stronger sense of community abroad than they did in Seattle.
Tax & Residency Strategy
- They rely on the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), avoiding U.S. income tax as long as they do not stay in any one foreign country more than 180 days per year.
- They pay payroll taxes but no U.S. income tax, and they have not triggered tax residency in their host countries.
- Long‑term plans include exploring second citizenship or residency options (e.g., “golden visa” programs) once they consider settling, taking into account stability, tax rates, healthcare, tolerance, and community.
Reflections on Global Trends
- They observe a world split between moderation/tolerance and nationalist/traditionalist forces, noting both acceptance and backlash in different locales.
- Experiences in places like Hungary, Istanbul, and the Balkans have reinforced their belief that distance can provide perspective on U.S. political polarization.
- Encounters with diverse cultures and religions have broadened their outlook, fostering optimism about the planet’s future despite occasional negative events.
Practical Takeaways for Aspiring Nomads
- Income: Secure remote, location‑independent work (writing, consulting, digital services).
- Cost Management: Research local living costs; many destinations are significantly cheaper than major U.S. cities.
- Legal: Understand visa limits, tax obligations (FEIE, local tax residency), and potential pathways to residency or citizenship.
- Safety & Culture: Conduct due‑diligence on LGBTQ+ rights and local customs; practice discretion where needed but remain authentic.
- Community: Connect with nomad networks (online newsletters, social media groups) to ease transitions and find social support.
Michael and Brett’s journey illustrates that a deliberately minimalist, digitally enabled lifestyle can replace traditional home ownership, offering both financial freedom and a richer, more socially connected way of living—provided one plans carefully around income, taxes, and cultural sensitivities.
