Podcast
El Salvador Insiders
Hosted by El Salvador Insiders · ENGLISH
Welcome to the El Salvador Insiders Podcast
Have you been wondering what life is like in El Salvador and what the hype is all about but confused about all the negative things you hear in the media? Are you wondering why Bitcoiners are living their lives behind and flocking to El Salvador? Are you considering moving to El Salvador but wondering if it’s a safe country to live in?
Hi, we’re Juliana and Francesco. On May 22, 2022 we came to visit El Salvador with our 2 kids and fell in love! Once we got back to the US, we sold everything we had and officially moved to El Salvador just a short 2 weeks later!
In this show, you’ll hear about what life’s really like in El Salvador, how bitcoin is changing this country, how to move El Salvador and much more!
You’ll discover my best tips and hacks I’ve discovered to make your move and life here as smooth as possible as well as listen in on interviews with expats and locals alike!
So grab your notebook and pen, it’s time to learn about Central America’s best kept secret!
Connect with me: julianainelsalvador@gmail.com
Twitter: juinelsalvador
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Don’t Visit El Salvador (Without These 7 Insider Secrets)
Oct 29, 202400:10:09Tap to summarizeFind out essential travel tips for a smooth and enjoyable trip to El Salvador. In today’s episode, Francesco and I are sharing some must-know tips if you're visiting El Salvador—especially if you’re coming for the Adopting Bitcoin Conference this November. Whether you're thinking about moving here or just visiting, we’ve got you covered with some real talk on everything from managing food allergies to avoiding mosquito bites. Plus, we’ll share the one thing you need to ask about when booking an Airbnb (trust me, you don’t want to skip this). Oh, and if you love street food, there’s something you might want to know before diving in. Tune in for our top tips to make sure you have an awesome, stress-free trip to El Salvador! Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communities! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bitcoinersinelsalvador Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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What No One Tells You About Expat Life in El Salvador (and Why We Almost Left)
Oct 16, 202400:21:41Tap to summarizeFind out what it's really like to live in El Salvador and how it’s become our home. In this episode, Francesco and I open up about our real experiences living in El Salvador for over two years. We share how we went from visiting the country just to check it out to falling in love and deciding to make it our home. But it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows—there have been some tough moments too. I talk about the "honeymoon phase" when everything felt perfect, followed by some serious challenges that made me question if we made the right decision. From dealing with cultural differences to navigating expat life and the realities of living in a developing country, we cover it all. We also share why we think El Salvador is a great option for families, especially with the safety and opportunities it offers. If you’re thinking about moving to El Salvador, visiting, or just curious about life here, this episode gives you an honest look at both the highs and the lows. Tune in. Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communities! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bitcoinersinelsalvador Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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Looking for the perfect rental in El Salvador? 6 insider tips to help you find it
Oct 3, 202400:17:40Tap to summarizeLearn how to find the right rental in El Salvador and avoid the common pitfalls we experienced. In this episode, Francesco and I share six lessons we wish we had known before renting real estate in El Salvador. Whether you're planning to move here or just want to get the inside scoop on the rental market, we've got some must-know tips to share. From how to navigate the unregulated market to dealing with pricing surprises, we’ve got it all covered—but with a few twists you may not expect! We’ll touch on why networking is key, how to avoid common mistakes, and why that picture-perfect listing might not tell the full story. Trust us, if you're thinking about finding a rental in El Salvador, you’ll want to hear this first. But that's not all—we’re also sharing some exclusive insights about the real estate community and how to connect with expats who are already living the dream here. Tune in for practical tips and the real talk you need before making any moves! Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communities! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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3 things we love (and 3 things we don’t) about El Salvador after 2 years
Sep 25, 202400:17:01Tap to summarizeDiscover the pros and cons of living in El Salvador. In this episode, Francesco and I share our honest thoughts after two years of living in El Salvador. You'll learn what we love most about this beautiful country, from its openness to Bitcoin to the amazing sense of hope and progress we've witnessed. But it's not all sunshine – we also dive into the challenges. Find out how Salvadorans are embracing change, what makes daily life here special, and what El Salvador expats need to know if they're considering moving to El Salvador. Discover the real life in El Salvador with us – the good, the not-so-great, and everything in between! Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communities! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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The cost of having a baby in El Salvador
May 22, 202400:12:04Tap to summarizeAre you considering having a baby in El Salvador but worried about the costs? Navigating the expenses of prenatal care, hospital fees, and baby essentials in a foreign country can be overwhelming. In this episode, I break down the costs associated with having a baby here, providing insights and tips to help you plan and budget accordingly. From doctor visits and labor and delivery fees to finding affordable baby gear and natural diaper options, I share my personal experience and knowledge to guide you through the process. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for the best quality items, I discuss various options and strategies to make having a baby in El Salvador more manageable. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of what to expect financially and be better prepared for your new addition in El Salvador. Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communites! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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My experience giving birth in El Salvador
May 15, 202400:25:01Tap to summarizeAre you an expat mom-to-be in El Salvador, worried about finding supportive healthcare providers who respect your birthing choices? In this episode, I share my challenging experience giving birth here, from the pressure to have unnecessary interventions to the lack of support for natural birth. Join me as I break down what I wish I'd known, the resources I'd recommend, and how you can navigate the Salvadoran healthcare system to have the best possible birth experience. I'm sharing my story so you can learn from it and feel empowered going into your own birth journey here in El Salvador. Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communites! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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What's It Like to Be Pregnant in El Salvador?
May 8, 202400:10:15Tap to summarizeHave you ever wondered what it's like to be pregnant in El Salvador? Join me on this episode of the El Salvador Insiders podcast, where I share my personal journey of expecting a child in this vibrant country! I'll also delve into the cultural norms here, including the widespread preference for cesarean sections, and share my own struggle to find a healthcare provider who supports and respects physiological birth. Despite these challenges, I was moved by the level of respect and care shown to pregnant women in this community. And for those who are navigating similar paths, I'll highlight some resources to help you on this beautiful journey! Xo, Juliana Grab your guide here! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Join our communites! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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Where to buy furniture and home goods in El Salvador
Apr 26, 202400:13:56Tap to summarizeYou've found your dream home to rent in El Salvador, but now you need to furnish it. Where do you even start? It can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to buy affordable, quality furniture in a foreign country. If you're not careful, furnishing your entire home in El Salvador could end up costing you an arm and a leg. You could waste countless hours driving around from store to store, unsure if you're really getting the best deals or quality. The last thing you want is to blow your budget or end up with furniture that falls apart after a few months. In this episode, I'm sharing my top tips and go-to stores for furnishing your home in El Salvador without breaking the bank. From affordable options like Walmart and Dollar City to higher-end stores like Siman, I cover it all. I also reveal some lesser-known gems, like artisanal shops where you can find unique, locally-made pieces. Plus, I share my shopping strategy for maximizing your time and money. With my insider advice, you'll be able to confidently furnish your Salvadoran home with everything you need at prices you can afford. https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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El Salvador real estate tips (don't miss these!)
Apr 26, 202400:19:35Tap to summarizeAre you considering renting or buying property in El Salvador but feeling overwhelmed by the process? In this episode, I'll share my experiences and insights to help you navigate the real estate market and find your dream home. As an expat, you might face challenges such as rising prices, lack of a centralized listing system, and cultural differences in negotiation and property maintenance. These obstacles can make your search for the perfect home feel like an uphill battle. But don't worry! I'm here to guide you through the process and provide valuable tips to help you overcome these hurdles. From networking with locals and expats to working with multiple real estate agents, I'll share strategies to increase your chances of finding the right property at the right price. You'll also learn about the importance of having a trusted Salvadoran lawyer on your side, negotiating effectively, and setting realistic expectations when it comes to property conditions and the timeline for closing a deal. Join me as I draw from my personal experiences and those of fellow expats to provide you with a comprehensive guide to renting and buying property in El Salvador. https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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Where to live in El Salvador! ( San Salvador neighborhoods explained)
Apr 26, 202400:18:41Tap to summarizeAre you an expat considering a move to El Salvador but feeling overwhelmed by the housing options? In this episode, I'll help you navigate the real estate landscape and find the perfect neighborhood for your needs and budget. Join me as I share my personal experiences and insights on various areas in and around San Salvador. From the upscale, European-style San Benito to the more affordable and family-friendly Escalon, I'll guide you through the pros and cons of each neighborhood. Discover charming towns like Santa Tecla, with its historic feel and diverse offerings, or find the perfect balance between city and beach life in Zaragoza and Antiguo Cuscatlán. For those seeking a lively beach atmosphere, I'll introduce you to Puerto La Libertad, El Tunco, and El Zonte, popular among Salvadorans and expats alike. Whether you're a single professional, a couple, or a family with children, this episode will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision about where to call home in El Salvador. Tune in now and take the first step towards your new life in this beautiful country! https://julianabarbati.ck.page/el-salvador-guide Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1363737717787087 Telegram: t.me/bitcoinersinelsalvador And if you’d like to have a 1:1 with either one (or both of) us, you can do so here: https://calendly.com/julianabarbati/el-salvador-call
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