It's a bit unbelievable that I found this thread as we are on opposite ends of the spectrum...I was thinking about Costa Rice today and I looked up Jaco a week ago.
I turned 25 last week. (25forMore) I have a fantastic job that I appreciate more than ever right now. I am a related service staff in a school district. I start a bit higher up than a teacher, and I live at home. I work 9 months a year with a 55k starting salary (could surplus through the summer). I'm living at home so I'm really saving and trying to frontload heavy for my 40+ year investing journey. I'm getting to work and contribute my entire paycheck into a Bear Market. This is all good. Currently have put 15k into the down market and more is marching in.
Also, I'm on a 60 day duolinguo streak and have been dreaming of spending the summer in Jaco living in a hostel - learning Spanish, trying out spearfishing, surfing, and some cultural dancing. It felt exhilarating just typing that last sentence. F**k me.
I maxed out my Roth for 2019 & 2020 (on March 23rd which is the current low but I wasn't timing). I am currently dollar cost averaging 4k/month into a 457(b) plan right now. I also put 5k into a brokerage account on the 23rd. All allocated in broad index funds. I feel great at the moment. I don't get the crazy awesome lifestyle you have right now, but I do get a golden opportunity at a head start towards true financial freedom.
The trade off is that you get to do your adventure year round, while I have to wait until June, July, and August. But I might get a way better head start on FIRE and my investments. You're living a life that I stop and ponder if I'm missing out on. At least we both have a plan that we're following, that makes all the difference.
But... I think I have a good grasp on what I want. I like the hope, and long term potential of my current contributions. The delayed gratification. I like the simple, long-term plan and the intensity in frontloading heavy. It's hard to say if I'd like to trade places with you. I wouldn't be mad that's for sure. Truthfully, I think I would continue on my path and build consistently each year. I do (and will continue) to envy you throughout the day. I hope you can turn your freelance gig into a 50k+ a year machine and show me up. I thought I'd share my perspective and situation, as I enjoyed reading yours. Still Jealous. F**k me.