80-year-old trades American suburbs for a ‘Goldilocks’ life in Lecce, Italy

Edward Krueger Connors Jr., an 80-year-old Vietnam War veteran, former Gold’s Gym founder and California architect, moved to Lecce, Italy in early 2026 to pursue a long‑deferred dream and escape the “ugliness” he saw in suburban America. He rents a furnished one‑bedroom near Lecce’s historic center for about $1,100 a month, opts for six‑month flexibility over permanence, and spends mornings writing and afternoons walking as he travels around Europe and contemplates more exploration—living life in the moment rather than owning property.