In this interview, Leighton shares his journey from a high-pressure career in the UK to a simpler, more fulfilling life in rural Romania. Initially unfamiliar with Romania, Leighton’s connection began through his Romanian wife, and their early trips to her hometown in Maramureș. Captivated by the stunning landscapes, traditional lifestyle, and slower pace of life, Leighton recounts how a health crisis prompted him to re-evaluate his priorities, leading to their decision to buy an affordable countryside property in Hunedoara County. He reflects on the freedom, clean air, and fresh food that have significantly improved his health and well-being, contrasting it with the stress and materialism of his former lifestyle in England.
Leighton also discusses the practical and cultural aspects of living in Romania, including the challenges of learning the language, adapting to local bureaucracy, and growing food organically. Despite occasional frustrations like litter and inefficient services, he praises the strong community values, low crime rates, and opportunities for self-sufficiency. The video concludes with a broader conversation about future-proofing businesses in an unpredictable world, emphasizing the importance of trustworthy networks and practical skills. Leighton’s story highlights the transformative potential of embracing a simpler, more connected way of life in Romania.
0:00 - Introduction to the Interview
0:17 - Leighton's Background and Connection to Romania
0:43 - Growing Up in Lincolnshire and Early Impressions of Romania
1:16 - Meeting His Romanian Wife and First Impressions of Romania
2:04 - Exploring Romania: Holidays in the Carpathian Mountains
2:59 - Visiting Leighton's wife's Hometown in Maramureș
3:43 - Comparing Countryside Landscapes: Lincolnshire vs. Romania
4:43 - Language Challenges and Adapting to Romanian Culture
5:13 - Leighton's Head Injury and Its Life-Changing Impact
6:07 - Reflecting on a Stressful Career in the UK
6:49 - Deciding to Change Life Direction After Health Scares
7:03 - Visiting Hunedoara and Discovering a Countryside House
8:07 - Buying cheap Property in Romania
9:06 - Shifting Perspectives on Life and Financial Freedom
10:02 - Selling Possessions to Embrace a Simpler Lifestyle
11:22 - Searching for Properties in Hunedoara County
12:02 - The Reality of Self-Sufficient Living in Romania
13:07 - Finding the Perfect House: A Villa for €90,000
14:55 - The Benefits of Living in Hunedoara County
15:17 - The Healing Power of Romanian Lifestyle and Fresh Air
16:04 - Contrast Between Life in the UK and Romania
17:19 - Yoga, Meditation, and Recovery in Romania
19:00 - Likes About Romania: Freedom and Scenery
21:05 - Traditional Lifestyle in the Romanian Countryside
22:28 - Safe and Crime-Free Environment in Rural Romania
23:42 - Dislikes About Romania: Bureaucracy and Litter Issues
24:08 - Improvements in Digital Services and Waste Management
26:37 - Addressing Local Environmental Challenges
27:53 - Growing Your Own Food: Challenges and Progress
29:02 - Trust in Local Food Producers vs. Supermarkets
30:09 - Future-Proofing Business in Uncertain Times
32:17 - Opportunities for Tradesmen in Romania
35:15 - The Need for Western-Standard Craftsmanship
37:06 - Encouraging Visitors to Explore Romania
38:13 - Wrapping Up: Invitation for Comments
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