After years of struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living in Oregon, USA, Sandra and Jeff Mayernik decided it was time for a radical change. Exhausted and financially drained, the retired couple made a bold choice: they sold everything they owned and began a new chapter abroad. In November 2023, they left the United States behind to explore new horizons, seeking a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle.
Their story, first reported by Robin Cottle for The Mirror, has resonated with many Americans dreaming of escaping financial stress and embracing a slower pace of life overseas. Sandra and Jeff visited several countries, including Portugal, Spain, France, Mexico, and Argentina, before finally settling in Albania — a small Balkan country quickly gaining popularity among expatriates.
Today, the Mayerniks live in Sarandë, a coastal gem on the Albanian Riviera, which National Geographic famously dubbed “the Maldives of Europe.” The city is known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a rare combination of natural beauty, low living costs, and a laid-back lifestyle that feels worlds apart from the hustle of the American West Coast.
Discovering Life on the Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera has become a hidden paradise for retirees and digital nomads seeking a high quality of life on a modest budget. Its scenic coastline, dotted with ancient towns and picturesque villages, makes it a dream destination for those wanting to escape the stress of urban living.
Sandra and Jeff were quickly captivated by Albania’s charm. They enjoy morning walks along the Ionian Sea, visits to local markets, and leisurely meals of fresh seafood and Mediterranean produce. “The stress we felt back home just disappeared,” Sandra said in an interview. “Here, people are calmer, more relaxed, and life simply feels lighter.”
But while the Mayerniks have embraced their new lifestyle, they acknowledge that not everything has been effortless.
The Challenges of Starting Over Abroad
Adapting to a new country comes with inevitable hurdles. “You’re dealing with a different currency and a different language,” Jeff explained to Business Insider. “In the U.S., I could walk into a supermarket, read every label, and know exactly what I was buying. Here, I once grabbed something that looked like bacon — but it wasn’t bacon at all.”
These small cultural and linguistic challenges are a normal part of expat life, yet they haven’t discouraged the couple. Instead, they’ve learned to laugh about the misunderstandings and appreciate the learning process.
A More Affordable and Healthier Life
For Sandra and Jeff, one of the biggest rewards of moving to Albania has been financial relief. They report that their monthly expenses are far lower than what they used to spend in Oregon. Housing, healthcare, and groceries cost a fraction of U.S. prices.
Medical services are not only affordable but also easily accessible. Fresh produce and local ingredients contribute to a more nutritious diet than what they had in America. “We eat better here,” Sandra noted. “The food is fresh, natural, and cheaper.”
Even simple pleasures, like going out for a drink, are surprisingly affordable. A cold beer in Sarandë costs around two pounds — a bargain compared to similar European destinations such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, or Greece.
The Joy of Slowing Down
For Jeff, the greatest benefit of life in Albania is the slower, more peaceful rhythm of daily living. Locals don’t seem to rush or stress as much as Americans often do. “People here enjoy their time,” he said. “They’re not constantly running from one obligation to another.”
The couple now spends their days exploring local culture, visiting nearby historical sites like Butrint — a UNESCO World Heritage site — and enjoying long, sunny afternoons by the sea.
Their story reflects a growing trend among retirees worldwide: leaving behind expensive Western cities to seek comfort and tranquility in emerging destinations. Albania, once overlooked, has emerged as a shining example of what’s possible for those seeking an affordable yet fulfilling retirement abroad.
Final Thoughts
Sandra and Jeff Mayernik’s journey from Oregon to the Albanian Riviera shows that a better life after retirement doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. By embracing change, they discovered not only financial freedom but also a deeper sense of happiness and connection.
For many others dreaming of a similar escape, Albania’s blend of affordability, culture, and Mediterranean beauty could very well be the perfect answer.