What happens when you ditch the rat race in your early 50s and make the world your backyard? For Warren and Julie, the answer looks like sunsets in Montenegro, farmers’ markets in Serbia, picnics in France, and two dogs with EU pet passports.
We sat down with them to hear how they made the leap, what “slow travel” really means, and what they’ve learned after five years of living between borders.
From the U.S. to Europe: Planning a Life of Freedom
Warren and Julie always knew they wanted to retire internationally. The goal was never to build infinite wealth, it was about creating a life of freedom while they were still healthy and energized enough to enjoy it.
In 2020, they officially stepped away from traditional work and began a new chapter as full-time travelers. But this wasn’t about ticking off bucket-list cities. Instead, they embraced slow travel, staying one to three months in each location, integrating with local communities, and living like residents, not tourists.
Introducing the “Schengen Shuffle”
If you’ve ever wondered how Americans manage to stay in Europe long-term without residency, Warren and Julie are pros at what’s affectionately dubbed the Schengen Shuffle.
Because Americans (like many non-EU nationals) are limited to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, they alternate stays in non-Schengen countries like the UK, Montenegro, or Albania to reset their clock before returning to France or Italy.
Their shuffle is strategic, budget-friendly, and incredibly effective for those who want to explore Europe deeply without violating visa rules.
Why They Bought in Montenegro
Back in 2016, long before they retired, Warren and Julie purchased property in Montenegro with a plan: stay six months there and six months elsewhere. At the time, residency rules aligned with this idea.
That plan evolved when the rules changed in 2019, but it launched them into the life they’re now living: a blend of seasonal stays, careful planning, and complete flexibility.
Montenegro remains their home base and one of the places they’ve built the strongest community. They've even hosted Thanksgiving and Christmas with fellow expats and fans of their YouTube channel.
Budgeting for Slow Travel: Less Than You’d Think
Many assume that full-time travel in Europe costs a fortune. But Warren and Julie prove otherwise. By slow traveling, cooking at home, avoiding tourist traps, and seeking monthly rentals, they’ve often lived on less than $3,000/month, even with two dogs in tow.
While they might splurge occasionally on a French café lunch or espresso in Rome, their core expenses are surprisingly low. Outside the Schengen zone, they often spend even less.
Cultural Differences That Stand Out
After years of bouncing between countries, the couple has a front-row seat to Europe’s cultural nuances.
Some highlights?
- Dining culture: They love the relaxed pace in France and Italy, where no one rushes you out after a meal (and tipping is modest or built-in).
- Healthcare and vet costs: Emergency care for their dog in Ukraine, including an ultrasound, cost less than $100. In the U.S., just walking into an emergency clinic could be $350+.
- Real estate differences: In Europe, paying cash for a home is common. Mortgages are rare for foreigners, and long-term financial planning looks very different.
Building a Community And a Purpose
What started as a personal journey became something much bigger.
Warren began a YouTube channel to document their travels. Julie, initially camera-shy, soon found herself enjoying the connections they were making. Over time, they developed a loyal following of aspiring expats and fellow travelers.
They’ve now helped hundreds of people navigate international healthcare, insurance, and relocation logistics, and even built a community around it.
Their Facebook group, Expats Slow Travel Nomad Network, is a space for people curious about this lifestyle to ask questions and get real advice.
Lessons in Letting Go and Jumping In
Warren retired at 51, Julie at 45. For them, the key wasn’t just saving aggressively, it was knowing what they wanted life to look like.
They planned for over a decade before taking the leap. Their advice to others? Don’t wait too long. Life, and health, aren’t guaranteed. If you’re ready, and you’ve done the prep, go for it.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely.
From climbing volcanoes to strolling Croatian coastlines to sipping espresso in small French towns, Warren and Julie have lived a richer life than a spreadsheet could ever predict.
And the best part? They’ve shown the rest of us that it’s possible, with planning, flexibility, and a love for adventure.
👉 Watch the full video interview below
🤝 Follow Warren & Julie
🌐 WarrenJulieTravel.com
📷 Instagram: @warrenjulietravel
📺 YouTube Channel: Warren & Julie Travel – Slow Travel Nomad Expats
📘 Facebook Group: Expats Slow Travel Nomad Network by Warren and Julie
Thinking of retiring early or slow-traveling France?
Reach out to FAB Expat for relocation support, residency guidance, or a real talk on what life abroad really looks like.