I think if we did leave the country, isolating ourselves with a bunch of expats would defeat the whole purpose. You can't really be a part of a community if you don't try to actively interact with them and more importantly seek out their friendship and company. There are some definite roadblocks in our way that might make this all a pipe dream and I think it'll be important to take a real, honest look out ourselves and our motives for entertaining this idea. There could be so many other ways to fulfill those desires while still living here in the States, which is the safest of all bets. As for what gets our motors running? Collectively we both love to explore and discover new things. We have a love for good food, music, arts, and antiques. We both love history, she loves astronomy and physics, I love biology. I have my love of cars and comics, she has her love of crafts and video games, and we both appreciate the other's hobbies to a decent degree. We're not workaholics, but we both take our jobs very seriously. Lord Mercy. I think I married a female me.
Have you guys thought about getting a job at a travel agency? A few years ago I interviewed at a place that did "family travel adventures". The travel agency biz seems to be moving toward educational/adventure trips for families and retirees, but as an agent it would be part of your job to get a feel for the places you'd be sending/leading people on trips to and maintaining relationships with people on the ground. It might be a good way to dip your toe into getting out there.
We're not workaholics, but we both take our jobs very seriously.
remind me of your professions again? I'm sorry I've forgotten.