Retire to the Sun

Hi:

Here is an example of how one family group made retirement to the sun possible.

The point I wish to make is how moving to a warm climate can be considered for a family, not just one person or couple.

Family and friends are a major focus, especially when work is no longer the reason to stay in one area.

One couple, a retired professional and his wife from Alberta bought a condo in the Caribbean. His brother and sister-in-law from BC then bought in the same complex and then their sister followed. She, however, lived in England. She is still working and so she furnished her apartment. The family managed it as a short term rental.

Next came their son and daughter-in-law, in their thirties, with two kids. They bought a two bedroom, but also rented it out on a long term basis. This younger family was not able to live in it for a number of years because they had young school-age kids. The family's parents were also able to manage that apartment. The couple with kids continued to live in Canada.

There were other children of the older generation as well with varying situations.

So now we have an extended family where the older generation moved and the younger generation followed. Christmas and family vacations are spent in the Caribbean. This family group has moved to a warm country.

As the mom said, "We live in shorts and teeshirts. We don't have anywhere close to the clothing expense of winter gear. Although food is expensive because it is an island, we don't have to pay huge heating and utility bills as we did in Canada. We are a short 40 minute boat trip to Florida and can shop in the malls. Life here is pleasant, relaxing, and much cheaper."

This couple said there were around 400 expats, mostly from Canada and the U.S. Of course it took a few months to get to know people, but now they have a great circle of friends and interesting activities.

Not a bad way to live.

M.



retire to the sun

retirement