Attendee Profiles Most of the attendees at International Living Events have interesting stories to tell, are keen to experience new cultures and lands, and are all actively seeking to reinvent themselves, seeking out new ways of living their lives. Read on and get to know our top attendees… and maybe you'll be inspired by them, too!
Scott P Taylor, from Carlsbad, California, is looking toward Panama City as home in the near future. This young but experienced traveler visited Mexico, Panama, Uruguay, and Argentina in 2006 and has clocked up eight of our conferences in the past two years, four of which were in Panama. He says: "The best part about the Panama conferences is the staff: Brandon, Eric, Stephanie, Sarah, Grant, Martina, and the rest of the IL crew are awesome…that's a major reason why I am moving there when my apartment is complete at Bayfront Tower." His next trip is to the Live and Prosper in Nicaragua. Why? "It's my first ever trip to this great country. I have heard amazing things about Nicaragua and think it's a good time to invest… especially since most people are running for the hills." The one country he most wants to visit? "Since the age of 18, when I first subscribed to International Living, I read about this little unheard-of island called Roatan, Honduras. Now 10 years later everyone knows about it…and I have yet to go!" A secret hideaway? "I would hate to tell everyone and give it away but my favorite place to lie on the beach, eat BBQ corn on the cob and fresh fruit for $1, then take a jet ski around the island is… Koh Samui, Thailand. As a matter of fact, I am heading there in February!"
Vance Campbell from the Atlantic islands of Bermuda is a recent convert to our events; he attended three last year, including the Ultimate Event in Panama City in October, which, he says, "was a unique opportunity to hear from all of IL's Country Experts from around the world in one location, in my favorite place in the world right now." He tells us: "Bermuda has some of the best beaches in the world, though I prefer the mountains as we do not have any. But I would like to have the best of both worlds when it comes to city versus country and one destination that offers this is Panama City." Vance has learned a lot from traveling, sometimes the hard way, and tells us of a few mistakes he's made: "Traveling to certain destinations for the first time, during a major holiday when virtually everything is closed and most of the locals have gone somewhere else to enjoy the holiday; leaving home to travel to an overseas destination without sufficient funds in the local currency (although ATMs have now minimized this trauma). I now never travel without at least two different credit cards." But a trip can really be ruined, he says, "if you are traveling with individuals that complain about everything, determining whether they like a place by how well it measures up to their hometown or country."
June Rutherford, a tireless and enthusiastic traveler, managed to fit in four of our events last year. Of those events (Live and Prosper in Thailand, Ecuador, and Panama-twice) Thailand and Ecuador were her favorites. She tells us: "They were both lots of fun, covering various geographic areas-beaches, mountains, cities, and countryside-while providing a tremendous amount of information about living and doing business in each country. "The next event I'm looking forward to is New Zealand. I've just received the itinerary and it looks like it will be great fun as well as informative. I took Grant's advice and made my air reservations early for a good 'deal.' If I could give more time to this trip I would have planned some stopovers in Australia and Tahiti, for the same airfare or even less, especially since the air travel time is lengthy. Oh well, next time! "I don't mind flying, as I like to spend more time on the ground exploring. But driving around a country allows you to experience more of the culture and get to know the local people. And road trips can lead to unexpected adventures… I remember events on my longest road trip, beginning in New York and ending in Santiago, Chile, two months later. This was in the early 1970s: few road signs, fewer gas stations, many roads in need of serious paving, thus several nights spent in small villages enjoying local entertainment and beverages while having auto-parts tooled by hand for repairs. We got lost in a banana plantation in the middle of the night while looking for the nearest Consulate after discovering we were missing the appropriate visas, then having to sleep in the car overnight (no Holiday Inn nearby) at the border-crossing which was only open during daylight hours." Jim Hardesty is a familiar face to our staff, having attended six IL events so far. He embodies most definitions of an "international" person, as he is bilingual and has moved with his wife to live in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Jim confides, "Live Overseas, Puerto Vallarta, was my favorite International Living event because I got to see, meet, and catch up with so many friends from all over the world." His next trips will be to Nicaragua and Panama this month, "I own property in both countries, there are interesting recent developments in each, the conferences are back to back, and the countries are very close to each other." Jim says that his best trip so far was the year he spent traveling all over the South Pacific and Southeast Asia and, as he is attracted to the water, it's no surprise that his recommendations for the most perfect places to relax are the Greek Isles, the Mexican marine jewel Cozumel, and the British Virgin Isles. The best food he has ever tasted was fresh seafood he caught while scuba diving, which was grilled right on the boat and eaten in the company of good friends. When prodded, Jim tells us his most embarrassing travel story: "The proprietor of the cheese store in Turkey raised his eyebrows when I insisted that yes, I wanted a big slice of 'that white cheese right there.' I'm sure he tells the story about the silly American who almost gagged when he took a big bite out of the slice of lard he had just sold him!"
Otto A. Rotach, has notched up a transatlantic cruise and a dodgy flight to Iran among other notable exploits. He exudes great positive energy. Otto's been to several IL events in the past 12 months, has enjoyed real estate tours, and remembers his stay at Panama's Gamboa Resort, as well as a canoe trip to Indian villages, with particular fondness.
He told us, "I like a warm climate and lush tropics, either in or close to a city. Panama offers all this. Being retired, I also have concerns about the growing inflation, the rise of crime in the U.S., and the ever-increasing frivolous lawsuits, especially in California. "Having been in Spain (and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico), where the people walking along the side-cafés, boulevards, and parks bring the city to life, I found Panama quiet at first. I kept wondering 'where are all the people?'" He's also had to be careful with his medication and now sternly recommends, "Never travel without prescription medicine-pretty much anything else can be purchased at your destination." So, where next for Otto? "Switzerland to visit my family (I was born in German-speaking Switzerland). And maybe to IL's Ultimate Event in Panama or the Honduras seminar." |
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Live and Prosper in Nicaragua Seminar - January 2007 "This was exactly what I was looking for! I met wonderful fellow attendees and learned much more than I expected. Cannot wait for next seminar. You guys rule!" Kevin Kelly, Carson City, NV
"This was my first seminar in Nicaragua and the country, people and conference far and away exceeded my expectations. I enjoyed the hospitality of the great Nicaraguan people, the diverse conference attendance, and the outstanding staff - highlighted by Dan, Suzan, Stephanie and Delia. I have been to several IL conferences, and I believe this was the best group of speakers, attendees and most well tour conference I have attended!!! Thumbs way up!" Scott Taylor, Carlsbad, CA
"A wealth of information, extremely valuable… Couldn´t do without IL!" Rob Fee, Friendswood, TX
Global Real Estate Forum ~ November 2006 "I enjoyed having my eyes opened to all the possibilities in both Central & South America. It has certainly changed my focus on my future investment path. Thank you for that. Also great to have speakers kept on time. Well done Grant." Susan Hoy, Rochester, NY
Live and Prosper in Mexico Seminar ~
October 2006 "I obtained the information I was interested in getting and more! The seminar/ was well worth my time, effort and expense! I enjoyed the friendliness and helpfulness of the International Living staff and presenters." Bob Ornstein, Santa Barbara, CA
The Ultimate Event ~ October 2006 
| Playa Bonita, the beautiful setting
of IL's first Ultimate Event |
"My first event. I was very impressed with the entire process. Meetings were on time. Presenters were excellent. Breaks were excellent, hotel was excellent. I'm glad I came." George Short, Wichita, KS "First Class! You covered all the fundamental bases of reinventing one's self, financial freedom, where to enjoy life, etc. the presenters were excellent and professional. This seminar is for anyone who wants to bring some jazz into their life. Kudos, to the IL staff. Great job. This seminar is the perfect balm for those who need assistance figuring out the next stage of their life - a life that's bound to be more invigorating than their past life (virtual reincarnation so to speak)." Jim Thomas, Portland, OR "The staff of IL is like one big happy family. It has been a wonderful experience. Thank you for providing so much information and for compiling such a wonderful staff to make the experience all the better." Cheryl Acropolis, Ocean, NJ 
| Kathleen Peddicord explains
International Living |
"The thought of moving was very scary. After the conference I am actually excited about the possibility of living somewhere now. The people we met and heard where very knowledgeable and make the "trust issue" go away. It is possible. We were concerned that coming here would be a waste of a lot of money, but I think now it's a fabulous idea!" Ann Marie Lee, New Milford, CT "This was my first IL conference and I am overloaded with information - good information. Very impressive speakers. I would recommend to anyone buying overseas to attend an IL conference." Colette Eldridge Smith, Pendleton, OR
Live and Prosper in Croatia Seminar ~
October 2006 
| Joan Bennett at
the closing cocktail reception |
"This conference was a winner on all counts. Thanks you IL staff. The topics were all relevant and most presenters were good to very good! Again, excellent agenda and great hands on info". Joan Bennett, Niantic, CT "I most enjoyed Croatiansun presentations combined with Lief Simon's presentations, experience, knowledge, communication skills, wit and credibility. Great job! I would highly recommend such a seminar to others who are considering investing overseas." Holly Suhi, Murrieta, CA "Thank you for a very good experience! Hvala lepo!" Steve Suhi, Murrieta, CA
Live and Prosper in Nicaragua Seminar ~ August 2006 
| Some of the conference attedees at
the cocktail reception |
"A broad range of speakers and topics. Very informative. Included information on a wide range of properties - something for everyone interested in buying properties in Nicaragua." Margaret Griffin, Gainesville, GA "The seminar was above my expectations. I thought it would be more of a "sales" seminar, however the mix of speakers and topics was excellent. Good split between available properties and information on Nicaragua. IL staff was very accommodating. I enjoyed the cocktails the most. A great opportunity to meet all the randoms participating in the conference in a social setting." T. Scott Gemmell
Live and Prosper in Panama Seminar ~ July 2006 
| Cocktails and a chat at
Live and Prosper
in Panama Seminar |
"IL did great job of organizing the conference. The coffee breaks were great and fine food.The sponsors of cocktails parties did wonderful job of entertaining." Bristol and Phyllis Conklin, Sanford, FL "I attended an International Living Real Estate Tour around 1992-1994, and comparing the two, this one was a complete first class operation from the organizers, to the speakers, to the exhibitions, to the hotel, etc." Frederick Ted Crowley, Cumberland, RI "I knew nothing about Panama before I came, I now feel as if I know a great deal. What I enjoyed most was the (apparent) relaxation of the speakers and organizers.I also enjoyed the diversity of the talks. The talk lengths weren't long enough to get boring, therefore keeping our interest. I'm now leading towards brain overload, but I know next week the important point will come back to me. And if I need to refresh my memory about anything, I love the emails of the speakers, thanks to the IL information pack. I would like to thank IL for a very informative seminar." Elma Stillion, Richmond, United Kingdom  | VIP cocktail reception
at the Panama Canal Museum |
"I had considered buying property in Panama before I came.I made a brief trip to Panama City in December-January of last year to scout on the scene.However, it wasn't until this conference that I felt confident enough to buy. I think I will be purchasing an apartment or condo in the next couple of days!" Patricia Kurowski, West Lafayette, IN "For me the seminar was a great help pulling together the whole picture. Thank you for all your efforts. The conference has been a remarkable overview of the excitement and challenges facing someone who plans to invest or live in this country. Seats us on the fast track. Most informative and most enjoyable. Muchas Gracias! Appreciate all the hard work that went into this thoughtful introduction." Lissa de Loja, Amagansett, NY
Live and Prosper in Mexico Seminar ~July 2006  | The attendeeds enjoy Mexican
cuisine at Bugambilias |
"This seminar has provided an abundance of information, which was necessary for any plans of moving part-time/full-time to Mexico. We made a lot of friends and exchanged a lot of e-mail addresses. I enjoyed being right in the heart of the Mexican culture… near the center of town. We were introduced to the best restaurants. We fell in love with L'Invito Restaurant. Life is beautiful in San Miguel." Pat Lynch, Maumee, OH "I feel that the information received was more than valuable. So many of my questions and concerns were answered 100%. Thanks!" Beverly Marshio, Fulton, TX
Live and Prosper in Honduras Seminar ~ May 2006  | Cocktail reception at
Live and Prosper in Honduras |
"Janine Goben did a fantastic job! She made the conference informative and valuable in a relaxed island style that made the entire event comfortable and enjoyable. She, her husband Ron, and the other speakers were credible and told their real life stories based on personal experience. As expats living in Honduras, they provided a unique perspective and insight on the wonders of this special country and why it is attracting so much attention. It was a concentrated delivery of very pertinent information that would have otherwise taken months to gather. Also Sandra from Tropical Rez did a simply outstanding job arranging an outside trip for me to Guanaja. Very professional. I would like to hire her for my company!" John Easterling, Jupiter, FL "The seminar exceeded my expectations. The availability of so many obviously capable people in such a variety of specialties is truly unusual. Vary valuable time investment." Charles E. Davis, Coldwater, MI Video Testimonial - Click here>>>
Live Overseas Latin America Conference ~ April 2006 
| Attendees networking in the exhibit hall |
"The seminar helped us to focus on what country to live in. Overall, I enjoyed all of it. Your staff is most helpful and expansive to what I'm sure (based on myself) is a demanding group of attendees." Karen Mezouane, Reston, VA "We got a lot of diverse information in one place at one time. I would recommend this same program to others." Jim Myers, Minot, ND "Extremely courteous and helpful staff. Great speakers. Great personal stories and experiences. Very inspiring." Tom Prevost, Elk Grove, CA "I enjoyed networking with so many interesting and knowledgeable people. The speakers are very well informed and friendly. What a great way to learn about the world and its varied cultures - I'd like to attend all of IL Seminars! I loved the conference, the speakers were all very informative, professional, some had marvellous sense of humor and I am very glad to be part of this global network! Thank you one and all! Ps I look forward to reviewing all the wonderful information packets and brochures when I get home!" Kari Develasco, Nevada City, CA  | Having a good time |
"It was one of the best decisions we have ever made. The synergy created by all involved has allowed us to now pursue our dreams with a speed, confidence and efficiency that borders on shocking. We have also forged dozens of new friendships with like-minded out-of-the-box thinkers that share our thoughts, dreams and values." Brad Geffen, Thiodosia, MO "Lots of info. Huge amounts of interaction with IL folks and presenters. I enjoyed the openness and availability of the IL staff." Robert Antonelli, Mechanicsville, VA "Good subjects, excellent speakers, important information for all who want to retire in one of these paradises. Taxes, properties, buying advice, health insurance, step by step info are all discussed in detail! Kudos to IL management on a great conference! Michael Hanyecz, Calabasas, CA
Live and Prosper in Panama Seminar ~ February 2006 "Great show. Good group of readers. It would take months to find and acquire the interviews and information we received at this meeting." Robert McGee, Tampa, FL "Dan and Jose were exceptional… Mary's take on Panama was very good… Peter is one of the best speakers at IL conferences… Derek gave a great presentation… Absolutely excellent presentation by Brendan. I think Club Panama will be great once it is up and running…
What did you enjoy most about the program? The real estate prospects as well as the great people at IL." Scott Taylor, Carlsbad, CA "Worth the cost of the seminar: IL saved me 1.5% of 250,000." Byron Enroth, Plymouth, MN "This is my first IL conference and the wealth of information presented will I'm sure, prove invaluable…I appreciate the time spent to field all questions, even the controversial areas and the ones that were unfamiliar to the presenters, because they were honest to say they were not sure, but would be willing to find out the appropriate information later. The amount of information and written literature exceeded my expectations, and it was easy to approach all of the speakers and the other seminar attendees for networking. The program's content allowed me to realize that I can live and prosper in Panama" Dr. Pamela Dentler, Brooklyn, NY "This is my first seminar, and first time in Panama (I am looking to invest). I found the proceedings to be exceptionally well run with a good variety of speakers. What did you enjoy most about the program? The wide variety of high quality speakers. This was my first conference, and I found that it provided an exceptional variety of speakers and information. I am looking to invest in Panama and this conference was well worth the time and money spent." Shaun Dolan, Miami, FL "For me, no matter how thoroughly or often I read something, hearing the same information always makes it more real to me. In many cases throughout the conference hearing the information, getting my questions answered, hearing other questions and answers and having the opportunity for one-on-one conversation with the presenters was well worth my time and investment in attending. The IL staff is muy amable, and very hard-working. The new Club Panama is a valuable addition to your services to us. Thank You! The conference was well organized and amazingly on schedule. Overall, I would not have missed this conference - for those who prefer to discover how to 'conquer' Panama on their own, I only hope they get as thorough and honest advice and counsel as we did in the conference. It will take me a while to digest all that I heard here. And, thank you for the great parties." Katharine Cotrell, Portland, OR "We came to see the country and get a feel for Panama and we were not disappointed. Meeting people from all over the world and finding out their goals and life style was very interesting." Tom Kitchen, Irvine, Alberta, Canada
Live and Prosper in Nicaragua Seminar ~ January 2006 "Eye-opening, to say the least. It's doubtful I could have gathered some of the information on my own. In fact, I question how long it would have taken me to learn - on my own - even a fraction of what you've presented. Thank you so much for putting on such an informative, interesting meeting. I was impressed!" S.Lee Tignor, Hot Springs, AR "These conferences are incredible - always exposed to valuable information that the average person may not have even considered to learn about." Richard Staufer, Superior, CO
Live Overseas Conference~ November 2005 "Extremely knowledgeable speakers. Good presentations. Highly educational." Ron McGee, Williamstown, NJ "It was a complete education on living and investing overseas. The topics were diverse and the majority of the speakers were finest-rate. I can't think of anything you didn't cover. I'm exausted!" Rise' Staufer, Superior, CO "The seminar exceeded my expectations. It was a great event. Excellent. I enjoyed the accessibility of everyone involved. There were no 'superstars' who were 'too good' to rub elbows with everyone." Robert Antonelli, Mechanicsville, VA
Live and Invest in Honduras Seminar ~ August 2005 "I'm so glad Ron and Janine have been here and will continue to be here for us. The seminar exceeded my expectations. The presenter and participants all seemed to click well together. I already feel I have a community here." Pamela Eslinger, Minneapolis, MN "We think the speakers were top notch and look forward to working with some of them again! We definitely got our money's worth!" Teri and Chuck Oberman, Iowa, IA "This was my first IL conference after having been a life member for more than two years. I am more than impressed in the way you have run it. Janine and Ron were excellent in how friendly they are to everyone, coordinated the speakers and generally oversaw everything. All speakers were readly available for individual discussion both during the conference and in the restaurant/bar afterwards. I would certainly join another International Living conference as I feel the sourcing of the information and quality of the introduction will save a lot of groundwork and provide reliable professionals who will be invaluable for those considering a future life and/or investment in a foreign land. David H.M. Walker, Gassin, France
Live and Invest in Mexico Seminar ~ February 2005 "We were at your February seminar and enjoyed very much. It was beyond our expectations in content and contacts. You covered all aspects of living in Mexico and of course Puerto Vallarta. The excursions to various projects and areas were extremely informative and allowed us to quickly become familiar with all of the communities and areas of Puerto Vallarta. Because of your seminar we decided to purchase a second home in Conchas Chinas, just south of the Zona Romantica. It has been a great experience shopping for furniture in Guadalajara. As you have said, the people are great and they excuse our poor Spanish, which will improve as we spend more time in Mexico." John and Dianne Arguelles, Santa Barbara, CA |
