A woman who retired in her 30s is sharing how she did it and how her quality of life has improved as a result.
Christina Schwendeman had always dated older men – so when she met Eric, who is 13 years her senior, the age difference didn’t bother her.
But she was surprised when he revealed his plans to retire as early as possible and move to Italy.
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At the time, it “sounded like a fantasy”, says the former chief marketing officer – but just two years ago, the couple made the dream a reality.
Despite being just 39 years old, Christina said goodbye to the grind – retiring for good – and now spends every day holidaying.
The couple have travelled to 14 countries across Europe, Asia and Africa, as well as North and South America – intending to add 75 more countries in coming years.
They also have a permanent base in Italy.
But… how did they do it?
“[When Eric first brought up the idea], it sounded like a fantasy,” the former chief marketing officer told Luxury Travel Daily.
“I wasn’t sure how much of it would happen, especially since I was only 23 at the time.
“[But] I loved the idea of it, if it could actually work out.
“I was nervous when he said we were ready to make the move.
“I had just been named one of the ‘40 under 40’ in my industry and the idea of walking away from everything suddenly became real.
“It was both very scary and exhilarating.
“I loved my job, but I loved living life more.
“I knew that if I died tomorrow, I would never look back wishing I worked one more day when I didn’t have to.
“Having that freedom was a massive blessing, especially at my age, and I knew I had to make the most of it.”
Christina, originally from Florida, US, is now 41 years old, while Eric, originally from Ohio, is 54.
Once all the pieces in their life – professionally, emotionally and financially – fell into place, they said goodbye to their families and hit the road in September 2022.
Now, they’re enjoying the freedom of retirement and also the benefits that come from living abroad.
Eric, a former automotive dealership general manager, said: “We have always felt like Italy prioritises quality of life more than the US.
“Wanting to move to Italy was less about leaving America and more about enjoying the people, the food, wine and beauty of the country.
“We moved from one of the most expensive real estate markets to a rural countryside, so it’s difficult to compare costs.
“That said, our house per square foot in Italy is a fifth of what our house cost in the US.
“Our utility expenses are significantly lower and while our monthly grocery costs are about the same, the food quality is much better.”
To do this, the pair used a financial advisor to ensure their investments would meet the required passive income amount needed for an Italian Elective Residency visa – and to sustain them long-term.
They also sold their home in the US, with their abode in Italy now their only base.
Now, they’re encouraging friends and family, as well as their over 3,000 followers across social media (@fromusatoitalia) to set a goal of retiring early and travelling.
And so they can also feel what it’s like to be on a “constant holiday”.
Christina added: “Our quality of life is infinitely better than before.
“That’s in huge part due to retirement but also credit to the pace of life in Italy.
“Start planning and saving as early as possible.
“Living this dream required a lot of hard work and sacrifice, but it’s truly something anyone can do with the right amount of drive and determination.”
