I'd suggest Eastern Europe, such as Slovakia, Czech Republic. Soaring is extremely well known and very good conditions from the spring till late September. Cost are at the lowest in the EU. And still just a few hours driving time from there to Vienna or Germany. Romania for even lower costs. These countries' economies are growing fast and taxes are low (in EU terms). There may be programmes encouraging foreign residents to move. Things like fixed-cost taxes for a few years, etc.

In Western Europe, you may need to shop for the cheaper operations if you consider Germany (not really very expensive prices for a typical family), or France in the Alps, Spain, and Austria as well.
Namibia is only good for a few weeks at very expensive soaring lodges. South Africa would be very interesting, except you need to fly airlines to reach other "civilized" countries.
I'd be happy to see you coming to Italy. Central Italy around Rieti, L'Aquila, Pavullo, Arezzo offers great conditions and much cheaper living costs than Northern Italy.

Talking flyable days or hrs per year, it's hard to beat the French Alps.
You might use any of the former countries as base, then drive around with your sailplane and trailer to the best soaring places, all within 500-2000 kms.

Sure you can't fly a US registered sailplane in EU for long periods. You may probably get a temporary license.
You'd have to buy a share or a sailplane, registered in EU (any country will do) and convert your licence after a few flights and a written exam (after studying EASA rules). In some countries, you may find inspectors willing to allow you to give the exam in English.
I guess a long stay shall require you to register as a long-term resident.

ciao,
Aldo Cernezzi
www.voloavela.it



Il giorno mercoledì 27 gennaio 2021 alle 22:17:53 UTC+1 Jeff Bures ha scritto:

These years should include lots of recreational (not competition) soaring.. I'm curious about different locations with good soaring. I don't want to be the strange American with the weird airplane, but rather live where soaring is known and I could make some friends. Would people make some suggestions please?

I'm also interested in knowing how difficult it is for a visiting pilot to buy, register, and fly a sailplane locally. Are the requirements different if I become a resident? I've read that my USA certificate is valid in many countries if I'm passing through, but as a resident I might need to take additional tests (possibly in the local language). Is this true?