Family Travel Secrets: Digital Nomad Tips with George Avelino

Our Offbeat Life

About the Guest:

George Avelino
George Avelino, along with his wife Heidi, is the creator of the Kensho Quest YouTube channel. A seasoned digital nomad and IT professional, George started his full-time travel journey in 2008. He made the transformative switch to Worldschooling his children and navigating digital nomad visas, becoming an influential voice in the travel community. George's extensive experience in both the IT sector and global living makes him a trusted guide for families aspiring to a life of full-time travel and unconventional learning.

Episode Summary: Join David Cole as he delves into the inspiring story of George Avelino from the Kensho Quest YouTube channel. In this episode, George shares his family's journey of transforming the globe into their classroom and playground. From seamless transitions across countries to navigating digital nomad visas and Worldschooling, George imparts valuable insights and tips drawn from over a decade of full-time travel.

Discover how George's background in IT and his disciplined approach to remote work have facilitated a life constantly on the move. The episode captures his experiences with various digital nomad visas, particularly in Malaysia and Thailand, and the practicalities of Worldschooling his children. Dive into the challenges and rewards of long-term travel, the importance of community fostered through travel, and how travel insurance with companies like SafetyWing can be beneficial. Don't miss George's tips on maintaining harmony in close quarters, and his advice for those just beginning their full-time travel journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Worldschooling Advantages: Worldschooling offers flexibility in pace, curriculum, and experiential learning that traditional setups can't match.

• Digital Nomad Visas: Understanding and navigating digital nomad visas is crucial for long-term international travel. George's experience highlights Malaysia's stringent yet beneficial DE Rantau program.

• Cultural Adaptation: The most significant culture shock for nomadic children often comes from returning to their home country. This underscores the vast differences in living environments.

• Travel Insurance: Companies like SafetyWing provide essential services, including political evacuation and coverage for global nomads.

• Sustainable Travel: Slow travel and having a home base can significantly ease the challenges of long-term travel, making the experience more enjoyable and sustainable.

  Notable Quotes:

1. “Worldschooling is for families who want to completely transform their lives with the way they educate their children.”

2. “Once you have kids, everyone says you’re done traveling. We wanted to prove them wrong.”

3. “As far as our kids, the biggest culture shock is returning to the United States.”

4. “You can do it. Don't listen to what anybody says who's trying to tell you otherwise.”

5. “The DE Rantau program was close to a six-month process because they were figuring things out as they went along.”

   Resources:

• Kensho Quest YouTube Channel

• SafetyWing Travel Insurance: SafetyWing.com

• Digital Nomad Visa Information: Malaysia DE Rantau Program

• Popular Destinations Mentioned: Thailand, Malaysia, Japan

Embark on a transformative journey with George and his family, exploring the practicality and beauty of a life on the road. Listen to the full episode for in-depth insights and tips, and stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Our Offbeat Life Podcast.