At the age of 65, Jaci Stephen found herself in a situation she never imagined she would be in – officially homeless. After owning property in both the UK and Spain for over 30 years, financial struggles forced her to make the difficult decision to put all her belongings into storage and become homeless. Despite the challenging circumstances, Jaci’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change.
Jaci candidly admits that she is responsible for her financial woes, citing bad investments, unwise decisions, loss of income, and decreased work opportunities as contributing factors. The aftermath of the 2008 financial crash hit her hard, leading to the eventual loss of her properties and the need to cash in her pensions. However, she acknowledges the lifeline that her pensions provided, allowing her to sustain herself during tough times.
Returning to the UK after a decade of living and working in the States, Jaci rented an apartment in Cardiff, only to be faced with the harsh reality of the exorbitant cost of living. Struggling to make ends meet, she found herself drowning in debt and experiencing stress-related health issues. The mounting bills and financial strain pushed her to seek a better way of living, prompting her to explore alternative options.
In her quest for a more affordable lifestyle, Jaci discovered the concept of digital nomadism – the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. Intrigued by the possibilities, she researched countries that offered favorable conditions for digital nomads and stumbled upon Bulgaria. Despite initial reservations about the country, Jaci found herself enamored by the vibrant city of Plovdiv and began exploring the possibility of relocating there.
With Brexit rules limiting her options for working and living in EU countries, Jaci considered the pensioner visa as her best option for residing in Bulgaria. The prospect of a lower cost of living, coupled with the allure of a new adventure, motivated her to pursue this path. While the idea of starting anew in a foreign country may seem daunting to some, Jaci embraced the opportunity for a fresh start and a more financially sustainable lifestyle.
As she embarks on this new chapter in her life, Jaci reflects on the importance of financial stability and the challenges that come with aging in a society that may not always prioritize the well-being of its elderly population. Despite uncertainties about the future, she remains determined to live life to the fullest and seek alternative paths that offer a better quality of life. Jaci’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability that can emerge in the face of adversity, inspiring others to embrace change and pursue new opportunities, no matter their age.
