I retired at age 62 from accounting last December and now spend most of my time in Buenos Aires. I dance Argentine Tango -- the main reason I moved here.
In 1996, I read about an Argentine Tango dance studio opening in my neighborhood. I took lessons and it captivated me: the uniqueness of the dance, the close embrace, the beautiful music. But it sure was a challenge to learn -- and I already danced Latin and rock. Plus, I was a karate instructor and I can say that Argentine Tango is as technically difficult as that.
I rent an apartment in Palermo Soho, a nice neighborhood in the northern part of the city, about 40 blocks from the center. I dance about four times a week, mostly in the city center. I dance mostly in the late afternoon and early evening, but on some days dancing here starts at 2 p.m. and ends at 6 a.m.
I spend nearly 90% of my time in Argentina, but I don't have permanent residency so I have to exit the country every three months. I go to Uruguay or to San Diego, where I lived for many years and where I still own a home. In 2011, I plan to travel to Europe.
Financially, I'm okay. It helps that my medical, dental and vision insurance only costs $200 a month here and the care is equal -- sometimes better -- than in the United States. The Argentine government provides free health coverage for everyone, but most of the city folks have private coverage.
Overall, I spend more money living in Buenos Aires compared to San Diego, but the difference is that I enjoy life more.
NEXT: On a golf course
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