Hi all.
I desire a simple lifestyle based around gardening and self-sufficiency. I live in New Zealand and have a large vegetable garden on a quarter-acre section that provides most of my meals.
I have lived abroad for long periods of my life, but not in South America. I am comfortable in the so-called "third world".
I have read a lot about Paraguay. I see the main complaint from expats is that it is boring compared to other destinations with the same cost of living (some of which I have lived in). That sounds great to me. I am a homebody.
My dream would be a large walled garden somewhere with a climate for growing veggies all year round, with perhaps also access to a field to grow larger crops of tubers, etc. It depends what I find I have to work with.
A subtropical to temperate climate would probably be best. Something like Northland in New Zealand.
Yes, I have interest in Spanish, and would naturally develop some interest in the local culture. But ultimately I want privacy, space, and room to grow food, and sit quietly and read and play music.
One major obstacle I have in my life is a recurring autoimmune disease. The medication costs me 50k+ a year and is fully subsidised by the New Zealand government. Under NZ residency rules relating to access to the relevant government department services that subsidise medication, I'd need to travel back to NZ every 3 months to access my medication. That's not ideal but four (well, eight) flights a year is doable.
I'm in my early 40s. I've had several careers. I've done ok. If I can retire very early I would like to (although I probably would end up working on something profitable, who knows).
My questions:
Best place in Paraguay to pursue this dream? Large planted courtyard type space, space to grow?
I will research cost of living independently and not get you guys to repeat the same advice to me you have given to others.
But if you can advise me in respect of my specific dream, and suggest how practical and doable it is and point me to some examples of people doing similar, that would be great. If you have any advice around finances or anything else, please offer that also. Thank you in advance!
