Guidelines for writing non fiction novel ?

[jasonmarke]

I have just completed a non fiction novel about myself moving to another country, living there , and after 20 years moving back to the USA. I wanted to write a book about my true adventures that can also be informative to people thinking about moving from or back to the USA. I also compare living abroad with living in the USA with insights about both countries in how money is handled, business is done, and the difference in cultural events. Enough said, I would like to hear some guide lines about what is permitted when telling a true story that includes friends, places, businessness. I changed most of the names I used in the novel, however, some people that know me or know where I lived can figure out who the characters are. All the mentions are of a true account or interaction and mainly positive, but some neutral. Noting realy derogatory was used. Still, can I be sued ( and lose) or be held responsible for mentioning my interactions with these peoples? What is the dividing line between free speech and l libel charge? Just looking for guidelines in what I can say and what can be pushed to the limit?