An Interview with Khadeejah Clemons
What first brought you to living abroad, and how has your idea of "wellness" changed since?
"I was never convinced the U.S. was where I wanted to spend my entire life. Once I started traveling, I loved that feeling of being on vacation (the slower pace, the relaxation, the freedom) and I remember thinking, 'Why can't I feel like this all the time?'
That question led me to redesign my life, rather than waiting until retirement to enjoy my time and freedom. That doesn't mean I believe there's a perfect place. I don't. I think you have to find what feels right for you. In regard to wellness, before it was something I added to my life. Now, wellness is woven into my entire day. I wake up with the sunlight, spend more time outdoors, eat without feeling rushed and have greater freedom to structure my days around what my body and mind actually need."
What's something about wellness here that surprised you, something you didn't expect to matter but now feels essential?
"The ability to simply slow down. When life doesn't operate on the same fast, efficiency-driven timeline you're accustomed to, you have to stop fighting it. At first, that's frustrating. Eventually, you realize not everything needs to be rushed."
"I've learned to leave space in my day instead of filling every minute. That space gives me room to be present, notice my surroundings, and actually enjoy the life I've created."
What would you say to someone who's burnt out and considering a move like yours, even temporarily?
"Take it one step at a time. Nothing has to be forever. Start small. Take an extended trip somewhere you've always been curious about, or a place where you already speak the language.
I also recommend what I call a 'discovery trip' - an extended stay where you're actually experiencing what it might be like to live there, not just sightseeing. You don't have to know exactly where you're going forever. You just have to be willing to explore what's possible."
You're known for being deeply engaged with the local community here, not just the expat side. Why has that mattered to you, and how has that shaped your wellness?
"Learn the local language! I can't emphasize this enough. Being able to communicate with people in their own language enriches your experience. It connects you beyond the expat community and opens doors that might otherwise stay closed.
For me, wellness isn't just physical. It's also about feeling connected to my community, my environment, and the people around me. You can live abroad and create an expat bubble, but you experience a place much more deeply when you make an effort to become part of it."
Khadeejah Clemons is a Boston native, educator, entrepreneur, and longtime expat who has spent the past six years living abroad, primarily in Latin America. A passionate traveler who has visited more than 60 countries. She is dedicated to creating a life centered on freedom, wellness, meaningful cultural experiences, and building community. Through her company, Authentic Travel, she helps people explore beyond the typical tourist path with immersive experiences, relocation support, and thoughtfully designed itineraries that foster meaningful connections while supporting local communities.