What happens when one member of a couple is ready to fully retire overseas and the other still wants to work? Air Force retiree Valerie Rivera and her husband Ralph, an Army retiree, found a creative solution by obtaining two different residence visas in France. After Ralph wrapped up his …
Space-A travelers to Europe are adjusting to a new reality. As of October 2025, five Patriot Express (PE) routes have ended, including flights between Naval Station (NS) Norfolk and locations in Spain, Italy, and Greece. The PE, aka “the rotator,” is a Department of Defense-contracted commercial flight operated by civilian …
Discover Vicenza, a city that offers beauty, culture, and easy access to the rest of northern Italy. As a military traveler, you can use your earned benefits to travel here with ease. Learn everything you need to know in this article. Where is Vicenza and Why Visit? Vicenza sits in …
What started as a quick trip to Mexico City turned into a brand-new chapter for Army veteran Heather Bruno and her family. They had been planning a move to Portugal, but a last-minute visit to Mexico changed everything. A few days of exploring neighborhoods, checking out schools, and tasting local …
Tucked along Okinawa’s northern coast, about 50 miles from Kadena Air Base, Okuma Beach is a U.S. military recreation area with a prime beachfront location, endless outdoor activities, and relaxing coastal vibes. Whether you’re stationed in Japan or just visiting, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. Poppin’ Smoke reader and …
“When people ask me what I do most days, the answer is ‘whatever I want.’” That’s how John Davis, a medically retired Army veteran, sums up life in the Dominican Republic. Looking for a fresh start and a simple, low-stress lifestyle, John found what he was seeking—and more—in the town …
Category 6 eligibility for space-available (Space-A) travel is a frequent source of confusion and misinformation, but the official policy sets the record straight. Find out exactly who is eligible and where they can fly, as outlined in Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4515.13 “Air Transportation Eligibility,” Sections 4.8 and 4.11. …
Thinking about living overseas after the military? Many veterans and their families have made the move. The first step is to understand your options for becoming a legal resident. Whether you have family ties to another country, plan to study, or simply want to enjoy retirement abroad, most countries offer …