The media is like pro wrestling now. The model is different. They don't share truth, it's all fabricated to fit the specific narrative while also being entertaining. The GOP and Democratic party have been in equal decline since post WW2.
As a retirement example I don't know what is better or worse, apples and oranges, less or more. But these two examples of career UPS drivers is a good example. I've known these men for years.
Driver A) 50 yrs old, 16 years w/ company, married, 0 kids. 2,000 sq ft house, $10,354 taxes a year, wife works. Both have BMW's. Slightly dramatic, but claims it would be hard to float his lifestyle without OT.
Driver B) 53 yrs old, 23 years w/ company, newly married, 0 kids, apartment, $1300 rent. Drives '05 ford focus. Does not own TV, lives on ramen noodles and bud light.
Driver A is expressing worry that in retirement he does not want to pay north of 12-14-16+ thousand in taxes annually. But also claims he could never picture living outside the tri state area. And Driver B is moving to the Philippines with his new wife, who is swears is not mail order. And could give a rat's butt about anything as long as he has cash in his pocket, and a bed.
That's why Van's scenario is so intriguing. He is doing what works for him. You get caught up in the daily grind and deal with it. Something of a romantic notion to move to another country, total self reliance. I just hope when I am older I'm still strong enough to hump a 24 pack of bottles up 3 flights of steps. And that I never go out in public with people who think Applebee's is a quality meal.