Eric and Christina Schwendeman
- Some Americans are choosing to retire abroad because of healthcare costs and divisive politics.
- Many of them are moving to Italy, where the cost of living is more affordable.
- They like Italy's dedication to a work-life balance, especially compared to American hustle culture.
Eric and Christina Schwendeman's relationship got serious the day he brought up retirement.
"I have a long-term plan," Eric, 53, recalled telling his now-wife nearly two decades ago. "I want to work as hard as possible and retire to Italy as young as I possibly can."
At the time, the couple lived in Naples, Florida, which is more than 5,000 miles and a 13-hour long-haul flight from Italy.
"He was like, 'That's my goal. If you're on board for that, then let's do this,'" Christina, 40, said.