In 1991, Billy and Akaisha Kaderli made a bold decision to retire at the age of 38, armed with $500,000 in investments. For over three decades, they have been living a life marked by adventure and financial independence, free from the conventional work routine. Their journey has taken them to various corners of the world, including Thailand, Guatemala, Indonesia, and Nevis in the West Indies. They currently enjoy a flexible lifestyle, residing in diverse locations such as Chapala, Mexico, where they rent an apartment.
The Kaderlis had meticulously planned their retirement for two years before taking the plunge. Billy, a trained French chef who once owned a restaurant in Santa Cruz, California, had a thriving career. Akaisha, with her background in anthropology, possessed a curiosity and adventurous spirit that complemented their lifestyle choices. Together, they embarked on a path that allowed them to explore the world and enjoy their newfound freedom.
“You can pick what you want to do — you can teach children or teach the blind, or travel the world or work wherever you want to work, because you own your time,” said Akaisha.
Their financial strategy has proven resilient, weathering significant economic downturns like the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, they have performed well financially and remain steadfast in their decision to retire early. However, they prefer to describe themselves as “financially independent” rather than “early retirees.”
“Once you become financially independent, you do what the hell you want,” Billy stated.
The Kaderlis have embraced medical tourism, seeking healthcare services abroad with positive outcomes. Earlier this year, Akaisha faced a personal health challenge when she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. She chose to undergo treatment in Mexico, benefiting from the country’s medical expertise and affordability.
Their lifestyle is characterized by flexibility and a willingness to embrace new experiences. Whether it’s trying new foods, meeting new people, or immersing themselves in different cultures, they have embraced the joys and challenges of their chosen path.
“We like to be able to call the shots, go where we want to go, stay as long as we want to stay, just thinking a little out of the box,” Akaisha explained.
Their journey has been documented through their blog, where they share their experiences and travels with a wider audience. Additionally, they have authored books detailing their unique approach to life and retirement.
“[Retirement has] made us more flexible, physically and mentally and emotionally. We’ve seen the world,” Akaisha remarked.
Reflecting on his former career as a chef and restaurateur, Billy described it as “one of the easiest jobs I ever did.” Yet, he finds greater satisfaction in the freedom and opportunities that retirement has afforded them.
Featured image courtesy of Universal Funding
