Hi, I’m Michelle Coffee.
After a big life reset—divorce, a layoff, and my youngest heading off to college—I found myself at a crossroads. I wasn’t sure what came next.
One late night, I typed “affordable places to live” into Google, and that simple search sent me down a rabbit hole of international living. What began as a hunt to stretch my budget reignited a dream I’d carried quietly for years: to live abroad.
Of course, it wasn’t an easy decision. I carried the weight of leaving my older child behind and wrestled with letting go of the security I once found in my belongings. But I also knew this was finally my time. With my kids cheering me on, I sold nearly everything I owned, packed two suitcases, and set out to begin a new chapter overseas.
Why I Started Solo Encore Abroad
That leap changed everything. It gave me freedom, adventure, and a chance to create life on my own terms. But it also came with plenty of uncertainty, second-guessing, and lonely moments I had to navigate on my own.
I started Solo Encore Abroad so other women wouldn’t have to figure it all out alone. This is a place for women over 50 who are considering their own fresh start abroad—whether you’re in the dreaming stage, the planning stage, or already living it.
An Invitation
This is your encore.
Make it solo.
Make it unforgettable.
I hope my story gives you the courage to explore your own. You’ll find resources, reflections, and real talk here to guide you as you imagine what’s next.
And if you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s not too late, that it is possible, and that you don’t have to do it alone—consider this that sign.
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here.
— Michelle
