2021 Summer Ideal-LIVING

Just south of Savannah, this surprising low country community offers luxury homes surrounded by a protected natural landscape. Here, your family can escape from the noise of the world in a place where spontaneous get togethers, outdoor activities, and the influence of water create a new rhythm to life.

Discover

With

Discovery Visit

The center of our waterfront lifestyle is found at the Marina Village, with stunning views of golden marshes, dry slip storage spaces, along with fresh water boat slips for residents. Accessible from every corner of the community via Harbor View Drive, a road with spectacular views of glistening waters, Marina Village is sure to become the heartbeat of Waterways.

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Cottage Homes from the mid 300’s Waterview Homes from the 400’s Estate Homes from the 500’s Townhomes from the mid 200’s

GOOD COMPANY

IN GOOD PLACES

Whatever our decade, here’s what doesn’t change. The need for connection. Nature and culture that inspires us. And a home we love. At Newland, we design awardwinning communities across the country for a full life at every age. With 55+ homes and neighborhoods within communities that bring all generations together. Around everything that matters most. Come find your place.

VISIT THESE FIVE POPULAR NEWLAND COMMUNITIES AT NEWLANDEAST.COM

Newland is the largest private developer of mixed-use communities in the United States. With our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. newlandco.com | nashcommunities.com

NNP-Bexley, LLC, NASH Stafford, LLC, NNP IV-Cape Fear River, LLC, NNP-Looper Lake, LLC and NASH Nexton, LLC are the individual fee owners (“Owners”) of the Bexley®, Embrey Mill®, Riverlights®, Sterling on the Lake™, and Nexton® respectively (collectively, the “Communities”). This is not an offering of real estate in any jurisdiction where prior qualification is required unless such real estate has been so qualified or exemptions are available. Homes within the Communities are constructed and sold by homebuilders (“Builders”) unaffiliated with Owners, Newland Real Estate Group, LLC (“Newland”) or North America Sekisui House, LLC (“NASH”). Owners, Newland and NASH do not warrant or guarantee the obligations, construction or pricing of Builders who may build and sell homes in the Communities. Buyers should review the purchase agreement, public offering statement, and other offering materials provided by the seller prior to signing any contract to purchase a home. Details on the prospective development are provided for informational purposes only and there is no guarantee that the final development will match the developer’s vision. EQUAL HOUSING

Copyright ©2021 NNP-Bexley, LLC, NASH Stafford, LLC, NNP IV-Cape Fear River, LLC, NNP-Looper Lake, LLC and NASH Nexton, LLC. All rights reserved. No reproductions, distribution, or unauthorized transmission of any portion is permitted without written permission of Fee Owner.

The Best Places to Live

With tens of thousands of master-planned communities in America, you might ask how do you come up with a list of America’s 100 Best Places to Live? The answer is there is no one definitive list, but we’ve researched communities from our readers’ most-desired areas based on survey results. Each year we survey our readers to determine the most popular destinations and amenities. The destinations featured in this special issue are representative of those desires.

The past year has been like no other. No one could have predicted a worldwide pandemic, and certainly, no one could have predicted that the pandemic would create unprecedented growth in the real estate industry. Though inventory levels are at an all-time low, this is still a great time to decide where and how you want to live. And, the good news is there has never been a better time to sell your home. With millennials flush with cash entering the housing market, low interest rates, and now the ability to work from anywhere, the real estate market doesn’t seem to be slowing down in the near future. Builders and developers are rapidly adding more infrastructure and building more houses to accommodate the increased demand.

At Ideal-LIVING, we’ve been very busy this past year. We are relaunching our popular Ideal-LIVING.com website with new search features that will enable you to find your ideal place more easily. And, we’re all set to once again host our live events, the Ideal-LIVING Resort and Retirement Real Estate Show this September in New Jersey (September 11 & 12) and Northern Virginia (September 18 & 19). We’ll see you there.

It is our hope that you will read about the lives of people who have relocated and will get out and visit these amazing cities and master-planned developments to find your ideal life.

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Escape to the place where fun and relaxation meet.

Escape to island-inspired living as you grow older, but not up. Escape to Latitude Margaritaville.

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Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BUREAU OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THE OFFERINGS. Latitude Margaritaville Kentucky Registration Number R-201. For NY Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT DAYTONA BEACH ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO COMMUNITIES, LLC. FILE NO. CP17-0092. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT HILTON HEAD ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO LATITUDE HH, LLC. FILE NO. CP18-0021. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE WATERSOUND ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, LMWS, LLC. FILE NO. CP20-0062. Pennsylvania Registration Numbers OL00169 (Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach), OL001170 (Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head) and OL001182 (Latitude Margaritaville Watersound). Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach, Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head and Latitude Margaritaville Watersound are registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen, 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 and with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and has not been completed.

SUMMER 2021

VOLUME 23, NUMBER THREE

PUBLISHER

RPI Media, LLC.

PRESIDENT

Michael Hackeling

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kelly Godbey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelly Godbey, Colleen Crowler

Emily Bron, Kim Henry, Madison Swart

JG Walker

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kelly Godbey

Ashley Summerlin

Amber Whittington

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Laurie Kent

DATABASE MANAGER

David Heck

IDEAL-LIVING.COM

David Heck, Will Weinel

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Gina Burwell

ADVERTISING SALES

NC, Myrtle Beach, SC, TN, DE,VA,WV, PA, NJ:

Daniel Keir | dkeir@ideal-living.com

SC, GA, FL:

Fred Warren | fwarren@ideal-living.com

Western U.S. & International:

Dana Leyva | dana@ideal-living.com

Sales Coordinator: Laurie Kent

(800) 736-0321 www.rpimedia.com

The real estate projects and services advertised in this magazine constitute advertisements of the owners or their agents. RPI Media, LLC.® makes no representations or warranties concerning such advertisements. Interested parties should direct their inquiries to the appropriate parties listed for information concerning any of these advertisements. The advertisements contained construed as an offer to residents of the states of New York or New Jersey, or where otherwise prohibited by law. Questions on the availability of offers should be directed to the advertiser. Publisher’s notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal Agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property.

The Carolinas

Brilliant purples, pinks, reds, and golds greet the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean each morning on the Carolina coast. And, there is nothing quite like the Carolina blue sky in the fall light. That might be why James Taylor sings, "In my mind, I'm going to Carolina..." Retirees and younger people who are now able to work from home have not just gone to Carolina in their minds, they've been moving in record numbers. Each year, Ideal-LIVING surveys our readers and finds that the Carolinas top their list of places to move to. Though North and South Carolina have distinct differences, they both share a mild, four-season climate and incredible topography, from the Altantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains, where people can find their ideal life.

It’s a beautiful, peaceful, friendly way of life that you will never regret choosing.

~ Chris Dedel, Dataw Island, SC

Get Back to a Better Place

White sand beaches, majestic mountain vistas, mild winter weather, some of the nation's best college basketball, and lots of barbeque have put North Carolina on the map as one of the top states with the highest net migration numbers.

5.25% personal income tax rate

Average Property Taxes: 0.85% of property value

World-Class Healthcare

North Carolina is moderately tax-friendly for retirees. It does not tax Social Security retirement benefits. The state also has low property taxes and sales taxes near the national average."

Why not move to a better place? North Carolina boasts 3,375 miles of coastline from the Outer Banks to the South Carolina border and more than 100 mountains with elevations over 5,000 feet. It's also an economically vibrant state with the banking industry in Charlotte and the tech and medical industries in the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill). Most retirees are looking for quality healthcare, and you won't find better than Duke University and UNC Healthcare Systems that branch out with satellites throughout the state. The mild winter weather encourages a healthy living atmosphere year-round. You can ski the mountains in the winter one day and surf or fish on the coast the next day. And, if you are a sports fan, you'll have more than ample opportunity to view college and professional teams.

Editor's Choice

Healthy Lifestyles

Mountainsto-Sea Trail

Stretching 1,175 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks, this trail meanders through amazing small NC towns with incredible vistas and views. Whether you want to take a short walk along the trail or bike from one end to the other, the trail offers the perfect retreat for people of all skill levels.

Brunswick Islands

On the shores of southeastern North Carolina lie five barrier islands with more than 45 miles of coastline to explore and more than 30 championship golf courses. Grab your kayak or your paddleboard and paddle along the Intracoastal Waterway or through the marshes to catch a glimpse of a pod of dolphins.

Pinehurst Golf

It all started in 1897 when Dr. Leroy Culver designed the first nine holes at Pinehurst No. 1. In the North Carolina sandhills lined with long-leaf pines, you'll find golf of legends, including the famed Pinehurst No. 2, the centerpiece of Pinehurst Resort. This course has hosted more golf championships than any other course in America.

Editor's Choice

WILMINGTON

Wilmington Riverwalk

Stroll along the almost two miles of the Cape Fear River in charming historic downtown Wilmington. The Riverwalk is lined with shops and tasty restuarants. You can watch the sunset from a riverfront cafe. The marina at the north end of the Riverwalk accommodates large sea vessels and even a few houseboats.

WilmingtonandBeaches.com

Wilmington Food Scene

The historic district is home to more than 40 locally owned restaurants, cafes, and pubs that offer casual to fine dining options. As a coastal city, the seafood is top-rate, and you can find quaint restaurants in the beach towns and throughout the city. From oceanfront options to farm-to-table, there is something for every taste.

Wilmington Area Beaches

Beach life is a main draw to the Wilmington area with its three area beaches. The Caribbean-blue waters of Wrightsville Beach draw visitors for all water sports or just lounging on the beach. Carolina Beach is a family-friendly beach where you will not regret standing in line for a famous Britt's Donut on the Boardwalk.

Topping

"Best of" lists everywhere, Wilmington, NC, is a small coastal city with lots of charm. The area has seen massive 16+% growth over the past 20 years. And, neighboring Brunswick County is the fastest growing county in North Carolina and is one the fastest growing counties in the U.S. Home to multiple community colleges and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, the area is perfect for those seeking lifelong learning opportunities. Situated between the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway with easy access to the many beaches, Wilmington is the perfect spot for waterlovers. It's easy to see why the region attracts so many people with its stunning beaches, historic downtown, and easy-living atmosphere.

Population: 297,533 (metro area)

Climate: Mild climate with warm winters and even warmer (hot) summers.

Transportation: Wilmington International Airport

Culture: You can watch a traveling Broadway show or listen to the symphony at the Wilson Center in downtown Wilmington.

Recreation: The area beaches offer every watersport imaginable from fishing to kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. The cross-city biking trail connects the river to the sea.

Healthcare: In 2021, Novant Health has committed over $5 billion to purchase and upgrade the New Hanover Regional Medical Center, as well as partnering with Chapel Hill, NC-based UNC Health and its medical school to expand the medical education program.

Historic Coastal Charm

Cruising Down the Intracoastal

Imagine living in a coastal city with gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and dramatic sunsets. This is the life that Kim and Gary Foster live. The two relocated from Arizona to Wilmington, NC, more than a decade ago but recently decided to move into a home in RiverBluffs.

The couple love the central location and cannot get enough of the beach. “We spend all summer long on the boat,” says Kim.

and down the Intracoastal all the time?’ Really, it’s because there's something new every time.” And, downtown is just a short boat ride away from RiverBluffs with great restaurants and live performances.

One of the features that Kim and Gary were seeking in a community was a variety of different activities and events, and the couple surely found all they could have hoped for at RiverBluffs. Kim stays active as a member of the pickleball club, which is open to players at any level of experience. She is also part of a book club that has stayed together throughout COVID by hosting virtual meetings, and she says that this club is the perfect way to meet people. There is also a city club, a game group, a water volleyball team, and many more special interest groups to join. Kim also loves the fact that RiverBluffs hosts a variety of events with cocktails, food trucks, bands, and games that bring the community together.

She and her husband are out on the water every weekend spending time with friends, swimming, and cooking up burgers and hot dogs on the beach. Kim says that it’s like summer camp all over again. She adds, “People say, ‘Why do you like to go up

Another aspect of RiverBluffs that Kim appreciates is the camaraderie among members of the community. “If anybody’s got a problem, the community surrounds them,” she adds. Kim also says that having a neighborhood of people who care about each other is something that she was actively searching for when looking for a new place to live, and she has truly found that here. “It feels like home. I can’t explain it!”

“There's something new every time.”

NEW BERN

THE BIRTHPLACE OF PEPSI-COLA

Founded in 1701, historic New Bern served as North Carolina’s Colonial-era capitol. Located on high bluffs above two rivers that empty into Pamlico Sound, New Bern is a natural coastal destination for boaters, kayakers, and other water lovers.

Population: 124,020 (metro area)

Climate: New Bern’s waterfront setting ensures mild winter weather and summers cooled by refreshing offshore breezes.

Claim to Fame: Pepsi-Cola was created in 1893 by Caleb Bradham at a New Bern drugstore that’s still open for business and carbonated refreshments.

Treasure Tours: New Bern’s revitalized downtown features oneof-a-kind antique shops and self-guided walking tours of historic churches, homes, and Tryon Palace & Gardens.

Hiking: The 20-mile Nuesiok Trail is located just outside of town in the 160,000-acre Croatan National Forest.

The Shades of Carolina Colours Suit You Perfectly

COMING

It’s a picture perfect lifestyle, spent among friendly neighbors and fun-filled activities, including swimming, tennis, pickleball, a dog park and miles of walking and biking trails. And the convenience is further enhanced with a retail center now open at the community’s entrance. If you’re searching for a retirement community that celebrates the art of living, these are definitely your Colours. Inquire about our Discovery Package and come visit Carolina Colours for yourself.

The blues of abundant waters flowing throughout this coastal region of North Carolina. The greens of our Bill Love-designed championship golf course. The many hues of life in a celebrated planned community, situated in New Bern, a town that is at once historical and modern.

ASHEVILLE

Laid-Back Mountain Living

Climate: At an elevation of 2,134 feet, residents expect some light snowfall in winter but enjoy mild days with low humidity in most months and a kaleidoscope of fall colors.

Walking Tours: The Asheville Urban Trail and the Architectural Trail are downtown loops that highlight the city’s rich culture, restored historic buildings, and 54 public parks.

Asheville is the eclectic hub of culture and commerce in the state’s western highlands. The downtown area features unique art galleries, craft shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and microbreweries. Regional attractions include spectacular hiking trails and America’s most famous castle.

Outdoor Recreation: Access points to the Appalachian Trail and other scenic hiking destinations are located nearby, plus clear mountain streams for trout fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.

Must-see: Biltmore Estate & Gardens offers tours of its 250-room centerpiece castle, awesome gardens and greenhouses, and a vineyard that hosts wine-tastings.

RESEARCH TRIANGLE

Raleigh | Durham | Chapel Hill

Population: 2,079,687

Higher Ed: Take your pick, North Carolina State University in the capital city of Raleigh, Duke University in Durham, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, plus liberal arts colleges and lifelong-learning centers.

Healthcare: Both Duke and UNC have medical schools and specialty hospitals that are ranked among the nation’s best, as well as regional networks of outpatient clinics and private healthcare providers for seniors and families.

Culture: The Carolina Theater and several other major performing arts centers top the list of local cultural attractions, along with dozens of acclaimed art galleries and museums dedicated to history, culture, and sports.

The Research Triangle in North Carolina’s Piedmont region features three major university campuses and some of the nation’s best medical facilities. The Triangle is also home to many hi-tech company headquarters and well-endowed cultural centers.

live

live connected

Coming fall 2021, Telaro will bring a unique flavor of 55+ active adult living to the exciting master-planned community of Tradition. Whether you prefer villas or single-family homes, you’ll love our elegant, contemporary home designs. Better yet, you’ll relish the purposeful connectedness of everything here.

With a spacious, thoughtfully designed home as your foundation, you’ll enjoy Tradition’s whole range of inspiring possibilities. Mix fitness, adventure, relaxation and fun in a community that connects it all seamlessly – from T-Trail walks with friends to yoga classes at the Town Square to comedy and concerts at the event lawn. You deserve to live this well!

CLOSE TO EVERYTHING:

Local beaches

Shopping and dining

Outdoor recreation

Year-round entertainment

Educational experiences

BUILT-IN TOWN CENTER:

Convenient shopping

Restaurants and cafes

Community events & classes

Weekly farmers market

Event lawn

AMENITIES GALORE:

20,000 sq. ft. clubhouse

TIM autonomous shuttle

Electric bike share

Extensive T-Trail

300 acres of parks

Resort-style pools

Poolside cafe and market

Fitness center

Outdoor recreation

Sports courts

Card rooms

Public artwork

Single-family homes and villas from the $200s

To register for more information visit mattamyhomes.com/telaro or call 561-599-6053.

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL

What Residents Think about Life in NC

We“came to Carolina Colours from northern Virginia in search of warmer temps and great golf. What we found was that and so much more. We found community! Carolina Colours and the New Bern area give us everything we need for a complete and balanced lifestyle. ‘Colours’ has an active population from young professional families to retired and senior folks. Our resident neighbors are always there to help should someone need a volunteer or just a friend to enjoy a beverage or a meal with. From easy access to the beach, numerous dining and shopping options, scenic natural and cultural destinations, and a top-notch health system, we couldn’t ask for more. For us, it’s the best place on earth ... our home.”

Greg and Kim Reinecke Carolina Colours New Bern, NC

““We grew up in a shore town in New Jersey and wanted to be near the beach. We were drawn to the Carolinas after vacationing here with our family. The warm weather and low taxes were a definite draw for us upon retiring. The year-round golf sealed the deal. Everyone made us feel so welcome when we moved, and still do. We are truly livin’ the dream.”

Norm & Fran Gwalthney Compass Pointe Wilmington, NC

What’s so nice is that this has allowed my husband to do all the things that he has always wanted to do — to have more leisure time, to golf. We both play pickleball now. And I am able to work from home. This house was everything that we wanted. We each have our own space. We have a FROG (that’s a Finished Room Over the Garage). I work from the FROG; my husband has his study downstairs. Then we also have a guest room and master suite downstairs. We have a beautiful back porch and a front porch with rocking chairs. We really like it here.”

Julie and Anthony Mastroserio The Bluffs on the Cape Fear Wilmington, NC

I think the physical beauty of the place caught me initially. It’s serene and so relaxing. It’s like living in a nature preserve, in a way. The weather is temperate. The golf course is wonderful. It’s like a new course every time you play it — each hole is very private. I couldn’t be land-locked. You can go to the docks and go crabbing. Whether you are a power boater, sailor, kayaker, or anything you want to do, you can do it from here. It just feels like home.”

Albemarle Plantation Hertford, NC

Affordable Luxury

River Landing provides our members and residents with the finest luxury lifestyle in Eastern North Carolina. Our club amenities include championship golf, elegant and casual dining, fitness facilities and more. With beautiful, natural surroundings, the community features walking trails and homesites to suit every need. Visit River Landing today to experience affordable luxury for yourself!

Imagine returning home to a vacation.

EDENTON

Discover your new life along the Albemarle Sound in the Prettiest Small Town in the South. Edenton offers breathtaking scenery, small-town charm, friendly people and numerous recreational pursuits, all within reach of world-renowned beaches and major urban centers. The living is easy in North Carolina’s first Colonial capital.

Edenton.net/retire • 800.775.0111

ROANOKE RAPIDS — LAKE GASTON

Southern charm, rich history, spectacular natural setting and mouthwatering dining are just a few area delights that await you. Nestled on the mighty Roanoke River, we like to say that “rushing river water can take the edges off rocks and people.” We are confident that you will find that true.

VisitHalifax.com/retire • 800.522.4282

VISIT NEW BERN

Does Southern charm still exist? You bet it does. With a variety of golf course communities, picturesque waterfronts, and countless shopping and dining options – calling New Bern home provides all the perks of coastal living at half the cost.

VisitNewBern.com/retire-new-bern • 800.437.5767

RUMBLING BALD ON LAKE LURE

Welcome to Rumbling Bald, Lake Lure’s idyllic retreat for outdoor exploration and relaxation. Our home here in the mountains is built for tranquility and adventure. The natural gifts surrounding us are our greatest asset. Unlock the charms of the North Carolina mountains here at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure.

RumblingBald.com • 828.694.3000

A New History in the Making

South Carolina is an enticing blend of old and new, from abundant natural wonders and pre-Colonial historic sites to upscale vacation destinations and premier master-planned communities.

6% personal income tax rate

There are no estate or inheritance taxes, nor are Social Security benefits subject to taxation.

South Carolina’s cost of living is about 12.5% below the national average.

South Carolina’s average effective property tax rate is 0.55% or about $550 for every $100,000 in home value. Residents aged 65 and older qualify for a homestead exemption on the first $50,000 of their property’s fair market value.

Visitors are flocking to South Carolina again this year. And, if the trends of recent decades continue, a significant number will return to work, to study, to train, and to retire in a friendly state that welcomes new residents.

South Carolina’s four distinctive regions share a climate that’s nearly perfect for year-round outdoor recreation: The Pee Dee with its 60-mile Grand Strand oceanfront, the Lowcountry anchored by historic Charleston and sunny barrier islands, the Midlands with lakes for boating and freshwater fishing, and the highland hiking trails of the Upstate.

The Palmetto State is also a major producer of fruits, vegetables, fresh seafood, and tangy barbecue. When you combine that good eating with reasonable living costs, top-rated medical services, and a dash of Southern hospitality, it’s easy to see why so many are writing the next chapter of their personal history in South Carolina.

Editor's Choice

Congaree National Park

NPS.gov/Congaree

Brookgreen Gardens

Located near the state capital of Columbia, Congaree National Park covers more than 40 square miles and preserves the nation’s largest remaining old-growth bottomland hardwood forest. Visitors can kayak on the Congaree River, stay overnight at a primtive campsite, or hike one of several nature trails, including a 2.4-mile elevated boardwalk. Just south of Myrtle Beach is one of the Grand Strand’s most unique attractions. Brookgreen Gardens is a 9,100-acre site that includes more than 1,400 sculptures by American artists set amid expansive themed gardens, hiking trails, and an on-site zoo, plus the adjacent Huntington State Beach Park on the oceanfront.

Brookgreen.org

Upcountry Tours

The Upstate region of South Carolina offers a variety of routes for exploration, including the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway, a 112-mile road through the highlands with side trips to smalltown markets and pristine lakes. More adventurous travelers can hike the Foothills Trail, a 77-mile adventure through wilderness preserves, up mountain slopes, and around stunning waterfalls.

UpcountrySC.com

CHARLESTON

First City of The South

Charleston is called ‘The Holy City’ for its many historic churches, but that’s just one reason it’s such an acclaimed destination. You can tour classic South-ofBroad neighborhoods on foot or in a horse-drawn carriage, shop for unique crafts and fresh produce in The City Market, or enjoy new downtown attractions like the South Carolina Aquarium. The fine-dining restaurants on King Street are second-to-none, and famous sites like Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie are living lessons in American history. Modern Charleston is also the center of a dynamic region that includes hi-tech companies, world-class medical centers, and major industries like Boeing. In their wake have come upscale residential communities on Daniel Island and in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, and Summerville. A reverence for the past with an eye on the future is a combination that makes the Charleston area such an exceptional place to call home.

Summerville

Known as “Flowertown” for its popular annual Azalea Festival and numerous local gardens, historic Summerville features a revitalized downtown with specialty shops, antique stores, and farm-fresh restaurants. It’s also the hub of a growing area with new residential and resort-style retirement communities.

VisitSummerville.com

Editor's Choice

Healthcare: The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in downtown Charleston is home to a top-ranked medical school, children’s hospital, and cancer-treatment center. Other regional providers include the Roper and St. Francis hospital networks, the East Cooper Medical Center, and the Johnson VA Medical Center.

Culture: Charleston’s annual Spoleto Festival USA is one of the world’s most diverse celebrations of the performing arts in a city renowned for its galleries, museums, music venues, and theaters that offer a year-round calendar of exhibitions and special events.

Recreation: The Volvo Car Open is a major annual women’s professional tennis tournament, and golf clubs at Charleston National and on Kiawah Island have also hosted recent championship events. Folly Beach and the Isle of Palms are local favorites for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.

Patriots Point

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum on the Mount Pleasant side of Charleston Harbor features tours of the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, plus other on-site naval vessels and military aircraft. The nation’s only Vietnam Experience Exhibit and official Congressional Medal of Honor Museum are located at Patriots Point, which also hosts special holiday events and unique onboard sleepover programs.

PatriotsPoint.org

Editor's Choice

THE LOWCOUNTRY

Championship Golf

From Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course, site of the 2021 PGA Championship, to Hilton Head Island’s Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the annual RBC Heritage Classic, the South Carolina Lowcountry is a golfer’s paradise. There are more than 50 area private and resort courses in glorious natural settings overlooking beaches, rivers, sounds, and tidal wetlands.

SouthCarolinaLowcountry.com

Lifelong Learning

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of South Carolina Beaufort offers an impressive variety of educational opportunities for Lowcountry residents age 50 and over.

A Natural Lifestyle Destination

Whilethe coastal areas around Georgetown and Charleston may be included, the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry is Beaufort County in the state’s southeastern corner. There you’ll find the perfect mix of unspoiled natural habitats, outdoor recreational activities, and towns that have preserved their traditional characters while adding contemporary conveniences and services.

Historic Beaufort features a waterfront downtown that’s filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like museums and seasonal festivals that highlight the relaxing Lowcountry lifestyle. Nearby Fripp, Callawassie, and Dataw are barrier islands with luxury retirement communities.

The Bluffton area also has its share of upscale residential communities, plus retail shopping along the highway and a delightful riverside town center. From there, it’s just a short drive across the bridge to Hilton Head Island, a world-class vacation destination with stylish oceanfront resorts, abundant outdoor recreation, and the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

Old Town Bluffton

Set along the May River and surrounded by upscale residential communities, Old Town Bluffton is a perfect day-trip destination. In this walkable one-square-mile district, you’ll find art galleries and craft shops, fresh-seafood restaurants and casual cafes, historic homes and churches, specialty shops, riverside parks, and a bountiful farmers market.

USCB.edu BlufftonSC.com

Climate: While Lowcountry climate can be warm and humid in the mid-summer months, the trade-off is comfortable short sleeve weather throughout the spring and fall, with mild temperatures in winter for year-round outdoor activities.

Recreation: In addition to premier golf courses and tennis/pickleball centers, the Lowcountry’s tidal estuaries and waterways are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, boating, and fishing in every season.

Healthcare: New specialty practices for seniors in the Lowcountry compliment established treatment centers at the Beaufort Memorial and Hilton Head hospitals, while the US Naval Hospital Beaufort is a major regional provider for local military veterans.

Must-see: Daufuskie Island, the setting for Pat Conroy’s memoir The Water is Wide, can only be reached by ferry or water taxi, but it’s well worth the trip for the pristine beaches, unrivaled eco-tours, and one-of-a-kind craft centers that preserve the best of Gullah culture.

MYRTLE BEACH

“Golf Capitol of the World”

Myrtle Beach is probably best-known for its 60 miles of Grand Strand oceanfront and 80+ area golf courses, but it’s also home to kidfriendly amusement parks, major entertainment centers, and big retail shopping malls. Marinas on the Intracoastal Waterway provide access to deep-sea fishing adventures just off the coast.

Population: 480,900 (metro area)

Climate: Relatively warm and sunny is the typical Myrtle Beach forecast, with cooling ocean breezes in the summer and snow-free winters for comfortable outdoor activities every day.

Entertainment: The Alabama Theatre and The Carolina Opry are just two of the many major entertainment venues in the Myrtle Beach area that feature Broadway-style productions, music concerts, and seasonal holiday shows.

Waccamaw Neck: Just south of Myrtle Beach is the Waccamaw Neck peninsula, home to Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet seafood restaurants, Litchfield Beach golf resorts, and those famous Pawleys Island hammock shops.

How is your daily drive?

Dataw Island

BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA

How is your daily drive? Cut the commute and wake up daily to 36 holes of championship golf with 11 holes per course featuring water views. Plus, tennis, pickleball, croquet, bocce, and social clubs too numerous to mention. Just outside historic Beaufort, SC, Dataw Island is a private gated community catered to the active lifestyle.

The perfect size – with 900 homes, there are numerous resales available, and room to build 100 more – the community is truly a hidden gem. Developed to honor nature and history, the

island exudes historic charm, natural beauty, and extraordinary living, and its people emanate friendliness.

• Two golf courses (Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills) both ranked in the state of South Carolina’s Top 50

• Eight Har-Tru tennis courts, named an “Outstanding Tennis Facility” by USTA

• Croquet

• Pickleball

• Full-service marina

• Community docks and kayak launches

“Best Golf Community”

AIKEN

Horse-Lovers’ Country

Aiken may be smaller than some places, but it’s big on horse farms, trail riding, and national equestrian events for seasonal visitors and year-round residents in new countryside communities. The thriving downtown area features historic sites, farm-to-table restaurants, boutique shops, and bed-and-breakfast inns.

Population: 30,671 (metro area)

Culture: The Aiken Center for the Arts features five galleries for local and traveling exhibitions, while Joye in Aiken is a performing-arts center that brings the finest music, dance, and theatrical performances to town.

Walking Trails: The Aiken City Arboretum, Hopelands Gardens, Rose Hill Estate, and Hitchcock Woods are among the best local destinations for relaxing strolls through flowering gardens and shady forests.

Local Treasures: The Indie Arts Vintage Market is an outdoor venue for antique lovers, and the Little Red Fox Shop is one of several local craft centers where artisans work and display their latest creations.

• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools

• Nature preserve, featuring trails, sunset dock and an off-leash dog run

• Community garden plots, butterfly garden

• Free library

• Social clubs too numerous to mention

Visit on a three-day, two-night stay to see for yourself why locals have voted this community the “Best In Beaufort.”

(843) 838-3838 | Dataw.com

GREENVILLE

Upstate Business and Culture

Greenville is a former textile town in Upstate South Carolina that has evolved into a bustling regional center of culture, commerce, and education. Michelin, Duke Energy, and Lockheed top the list of companies in an area with several local colleges, including nearby Clemson University.

Climate: The entire Upstate region in the Blue Ridge foothills enjoys mild spring, summer, and fall temperatures, with just an occasional dusting of snow in winter.

Healthcare: In addition to a new state medical school, healthcare services in the Greenville area include the extensive Prisma Health facilities network and the Bon Secours St. Francis Health System.

Pedestrian-Friendly: The 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail ambles along the Reedy River through gardens and parks on the way to a walkable downtown area with art galleries, museums, 100+ restaurants, and nearly 20 local craft breweries.

Culture: The Peace Center for the Performing Arts offers a year-round calendar of music, dance, theater, and special-event shows.

Living at Keowee Key has been the best choice John and I ever made. The community has an energetic and vibrant lifestyle with opportunities to do anything you can think of. The positive energy is amazing, and we really love to connect with newcomers, inviting them to join in our clubs and events.”

Wendy & John Jakszta Keowee Key, SC

Jumping in With Both Feet

Lynn and Ken Binkley look at this past year as a blessing in disguise. After selling their home in less than eight hours, the two left cold Michigan for sunny Savannah Lakes Village on Lake Thurmond near McCormick, SC. The two cite the pandemic as the motivator for finally taking the plunge and diving into a new life.

Lynn always wanted to live on the water and is thrilled about having a lake right down the road. “I feel so at peace when I’m on the water,” she says, as an avid paddleboarder and swimmer. She is also determined to get Ken in the water with her and plans to do this by buying a pontoon boat in the not-so-distant future. She is already planning a trial run with a local boat rental club.

Ken and Lynn are also ready to grab their clubs and get out to the community’s two golf courses and have already started scouting the hilly greens for this summer. Lynn is also a big hiker and biker, so she’s been enjoying the Sumter National Forest, as well

as the three nearby state parks. And, she’ll take any excuse for a dip in the pools.

Lynn and Ken also think that there is definitely something to be said for their friends at Savannah Lakes Village. “There is such a thing as Southern hospitality,” Lynn notes. She adds that it’s such a contrast from Michigan where people are still friendly, but not to the same degree. “They’d give you the shirt off their back,” Lynn says about her new South Carolina neighbors. This attitude is something she felt like she was always searching for, and she’s finally found it.

Ken was in the Army for 20 years, and it’s very important to him to still be able to find a way to give back and protect those around him, so he joined the volunteer fighters.

The two could not have been happier to make a move and have finally found a home that fits their lifestyle. As Lynn said, “I believe we’re right where we’re supposed to be.”

Working from Home and Loving It

Two couples relocate from the D.C. area to Woodside in Aiken, SC, during COVID

“Being able to work from anywhere has been one of the biggest benefits of COVID. My business went totally remote. Even as things are opening up, people are re-evaluating their lives because they can work from anywhere. Like people in Washington, D.C., they are thinking, ‘Let’s get out of the rat race,’” said Lou Ann Brossman.

In 2018, the Brossmans bought a house that they had never seen in a town they’d never been to and haven’t looked back. They had purchased the home in Woodside to eventually retire to while maintaining their residence in the northern Virginia area. Lou Ann (63) and Doug (68) would visit Aiken periodically, but when COVID hit, they decided to stay.

Lou Ann says, “We had planned on keeping our house in northern Virginia because I have a business there. But then COVID hit, and when everything started closing down in March 2020, we decided to just go to Aiken and stay for two weeks and never left. Doug was a financial advisor for Wells Fargo and was able to

work from home (he just retired last week). We kept thinking we were going to go back, but everything kept getting pushed back month after month.”

The Brossmans then received an unsolicited cash offer for their home in Virginia with one caveat – they had to be out within three weeks. So they packed everything and moved to Aiken full time.

“This was kismet, it was meant to be,” continues Lou Ann. “The number of people we have met, even during COVID, and the level of engagement (all COVID-compliant) has been great for us. Since it’s a golf course community, things never stopped here.”

Both Doug and Lou Ann are very active in the community. They are both avid golfers. Doug wants to play pickleball and Lou Ann has developed a new routine of working out at the village fitness center three mornings a week at 6:30 am.

Even if you haven’t been very athletic, you can start a new routine to live a healthy lifestyle

when you relocate. Lou Ann is a prime example of this. She says, “I hope to retire sometime soon, but my goal is to come into this new phase of life healthier than I have ever been… mind, body, and spirit. I am learning to breathe and slow down. I’m eating healthy and walking all of the time.”

And, she’s encouraging others to do the same. She has brought several of her friends with her to Woodside, including Scott and Theresa Hoyt. Lou Ann and Scott met at a luncheon in Washington, D.C., where Lou Ann mentioned that she had purchased a home in Woodside.

“It felt absolutely perfect the moment we drove into Woodside. We bought a lot here the weekend we visited,” said Scott. “We wanted a unique, warm, friendly community. Theresa (57) works for the federal government, and she

will probably work another four to five years. COVID accelerated our plans by a few years. Ironically, the pandemic forced us to make the move since my wife was able to work from anywhere. We are renting for a year while we are building a new home.

“I may be 66 years old, but my mindset is still 46. I did not want to be in a retirement community, and Woodside is not a retirement community. It has everything you need from health and medical facilities in Aiken to eclectic restaurants and shops just outside of the gates of Woodside. There is never a dull day for me. You will stay active and be as busy as you want with golf and pickleball, hiking trails, and travel.

“The Southern hospitality is off the charts. You just don’t get that in the big cities. It was the perfect storm.”

Busy Enjoying Retirement in South Carolina

“It’s a different kind of busy!” enthuses Chris Rape, referring to the active life that he and his wife enjoy now that they have retired to Callawassie Island, SC. There’s no sitting in rush hour traffic or working a 40 hour week. The busy the Rapes are currently experiencing involves kayaking on fresh waterways, golfing on one of the three, nine-hole courses, and engaging in the fun activities hosted by this vibrant community.

Relocating to the Island from Charlotte, NC, the Rapes custom built their dream home and are literally living their best life. “We live where people want to vacation,” smiles Chris, “we think about visiting other places, but we know we’ve got everything we could possibly want right here.”

One of the many things they appreciate about Callawassie is the landscape. “It’s not an overly manicured kind of beauty here, and it’s not totally wild either. We love the middle ground of Callawassie,” shares Chris, who is an avid golfer and tennis player and enjoys walking their dog along one of the many trails.

When the Rapes aren’t staying young at heart through physical activities, they’re enjoying one

of over 50 clubs that Callawassie has to offer. From live music events to a buffet of sporting options, there’s always something to do. “I played doubles tennis with an 81 year old last week,” laughs Chris, “I think because you’re always out doing things, people stay younger for longer here!”

The strong sense of community was a big part of why the Rapes chose to invest in the island. With a diverse age range among the residents, the atmosphere of Callawassie is dynamic and inspiring. “The Friends of Callawassie Island group organizes charity events and food drives,” explains Pam, “we like to focus on grassroots organizations where the three or four thousand dollars that we raise will have a life-changing impact.”

The Rapes burst out laughing as they remember one of the fundraisers where the newly formed band, ‘Artificially Hip’ entertained everyone with their cover tunes. “A group of locals who hadn’t picked up their instruments for years got together and now they’re having a blast. That’s how we like to roll at Callawassie!” says Chris.

Experience the perfect balance of home and nature. Oakland Park combines the beauty of nature with the history and character of old-Florida architecture. With a charming small-town feel, our community is located only minutes away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Winter Garden. Take a stroll down our many nature trails to see stunning views of Lake Apopka, explore our multiple parks or jump on the West Orange Trail, one of Orlando’s top trails for biking, inline skating, running and walking. Enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle while still being close to everything. Discover Oakland Park today. Newly constructed model homes are now open. Homes from the $300s.

David Weekly Homes * RCB Homes * J&J Building * Brierhill Homes

Oakland Park Community Clubhouse

1000 Civitas Way, Winter Garden, FL 34787

Georgia & Florida

The states of Georgia and Florida comprise America’s southeastern corner, a region with a combined coastline of more than 1,450 miles that runs from Savannah to Miami along the Atlantic Ocean and up to Pensacola on the Gulf of Mexico. White sand beaches and various shades of blue waters border both states, which feature relatively low taxes and living costs, a year-round subtropical climate that’s perfect for outdoor recreations, and a welcoming hospitality for retiring seniors and working families.

Georgia and Florida have it all.

Each state offers an amazing variety of upscale residential communities in waterfront locations, countryside settings, and suburban enclaves surrounding major metropolitan areas. From world-class entertainment attractions and unique cultural venues to state-of-the-art healthcare centers and farm-fresh dining, Georgia and Florida have it all for those seeking a more active and healthy lifestyle.

A Refreshing State of Mind

From mountain foothills in the North to destination islands along the coast, Georgia is a state of stunning variety where new residents every year are coming home to a better life.

Georgia is a study in happy contrasts, with a choice of lifestyle options to suit every taste. If a relaxing coastal lifestyle is your preference, it’s hard to beat the historic city of Savannah with its riverside location, cultural attractions, and recreational amenities. From there, you can take an Intracoastal Waterway tour of the Georgia sea islands, from the beach town of Tybee Island and the unspoiled nature preserves on Ossabaw and Sapelo to vacation resorts on St. Simons and Jekyll Island.

State of Health

North Georgia is where you’ll find the state capital and dynamic city of Atlanta, home to international corporate headquarters, renowned venues for music and the arts, major sports teams, and unrivaled medical centers. And in the highlands above the city and in the rural countryside throughout the state, small towns with low property taxes and farmers markets feature an abundance of Georgia-produced fruits, vegetables, nuts, seafood, and poultry.

St. Marys

Zero estate or inheritance taxes. Social Security benefits are exempt from the state’s modest income taxes, as is the first $35,000 of income for residents ages 62-64 and the first $65,000 for Georgians 65 and over.

Generous homestead exemptions from local property taxes are available for residents starting at age 62.

4% state sales tax; prescription drugs and most grocery items are exempt.

7% Editor's Choice

Georgia is home to major biotech companies, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and Emory University Hospital, the hub of a statewide healthcare network that includes 250+ provider locations with nearly 3,000 physicians. For retired couples, Georgia has the sixth-lowest medical services costs in the nation.

USA TODAY readers in 2020 chose St. Marys as one of America’s Top 10 “Best Coastal Small Towns.” The launching point for day trips to the Cumberland Island National Seashore, the historic port town features fresh-caught seafood restaurants, brewpubs, cool museums, exciting kayak adventures on the river, and relaxing sunset strolls on the waterfront promenade.

VisitStMarys.com

The cost of living is about below the national average.

IT’S YOUR MOVE

If you’d rather work on your forehand than floor repair, Cresswind makes it easy to find your next adventure, new home and fun. This is active adult living designed for the way you want to live. Visit Cresswind.com to start your search, get a FREE guide with tips on finding the right community and schedule an online or in-person tour.

HOMES FOR ACTIVE ADULTS

NEW

SAVANNAH

The historic city of Savannah, one of the South’s most popular tourist destinations, was named in 2020 by Forbes among America’s “25 Best Places to Retire.” Founded in 1733, the city has done a brilliant job of preserving its past while building for the future. Savannah has the ultimate walkable downtown for visitors and residents alike, with 22 distinctive squares that feature gardens, fountains, outdoor sculptures, and the iconic Forest Gump park bench. Throughout the historic district are acclaimed fine-dining restaurants, casual bistros, wine bars, and brewpubs. The same area also features music clubs on River Street, art galleries, museums, boutique shops, and free trolly rides.

On nearby Skidaway Island and along the Savannah River, new and well-established residential communities offer amenities like full-service marinas, championship golf courses, and tournament-quality tennis/pickleball centers for seniors and families that have made Savannah their destination for life.

Population: 393,353

Climate: The subtropical climate is ideal for outdoor recreation in all four seasons. Summer afternoons can be warm, but winters are exceptionally mild.

Transportation: Savannah-Hilton

Head International Airport

Must-See: The City Market is a shady four-block area in the heart of downtown with more than 50 restaurants, entertainment venues, unique shops, and studios where local artists create and display their works.

Healthcare: The St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System includes two top-rated local hospitals and a network of satellite medical facilities located throughout the coastal Georgia region.

Capital of the Coastal Empire

Telfair Museums Tybee Island Festival City

The Telfair Museums include three sites located in downtown Savannah with a collection of more than 4,500 works by American and European artists; Telfair Academy and the Owens-Thomas House are both National Historic Landmarks, while the Jepson Center for the Arts features contemporary paintings, photography, traveling exhibitions, and outdoor sculpture gardens.

Telfair.org

Tybee Island features three miles of re-nourished beaches, seaside accommodations, and casual oceanfront dining, a year-round destination for Savannah day-trippers and vacationing families. Activities include tours of the Little Tybee Island nature preserve and hikes on the sixmile McQueen’s Trail plus attractions like the Tybee Island Marine Science Center and historic Fort Pulaski.

VisitTybee.com

After a year of cancellations, the festive spirit is making a 2021 comeback in Savannah with special themed events throughout the summer and fall. Mark your calendar for the return of the Savannah Jazz Festival (Sept. 22-26), the Savannah Film Festival (Oct. 2330), the New Year’s Eve Celebration (Dec. 31), and the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in March 2022.

VisitSavannah.com

World Travelers Find a Place to Call Home in the Low-tax State of Georgia

Have you ever thought about selling all of your worldly possessions and traveling around the world? Jim and Fernanda Dorsey did just that and then ended up at Waterways in Richmond Hill, just 30 minutes outside of Savannah, GA.

In 2019, they sold their home in California along with 90 percent of their belongings and decided to pair down their lifestyle. They were on their world journey when COVID hit, so they spent a year on the island of San Miguel (known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic) off the coast of Portugal.

now, building a new home in Waterways. To us, this is as exotic of a place as we’ve ever been.”

They had never lived on the East Coast of the U.S. before, and they ended up falling in love with Waterways. “The feeling that we got when we drove into Waterways was like we were home. It’s like when you meet your life partner. It’s a visceral feeling. It checked so many boxes for us, and it also stopped us from looking anymore,” says Jim.

For the Dorseys, the pace of life in Waterways is much more desirable than their lives just 25 miles from Santa Monica, CA. Jim says, “It could take us an hour and a half to get to the beach if we wanted because, in California, 150,000 people had the same idea at the same time.” Living in Waterways will enable them to enjoy traveling around the Lowcountry. They look forward to walking throughout the community, kayaking, and especially playing tennis. Jim says he is 66 and has the energy of a 30-year-old. Not to mention, the tax situation and cost-of-living is also substantially less than in California.

Fernanda says, “We consolidated our lives, optimized our finances, and learned to live with less. It was liberating to detach ourselves from the dependency of owning things.” According to Jim, “The idea of living with less makes you appreciate things 10 times more.”

While locked down in Portugal in 500 sq. ft., they had the time to research where they wanted their next adventure to begin. Simplicity became the order of their lives. Jim says, “We wanted to find a new way of living. We wanted to reinvent ourselves. And, here we are

The Dorseys are most excited by the sense of community at Waterways. They already feel a part of the community and haven’t even broken ground yet. Jim says, “The way people embrace you is unique. No matter where people are from or how much money they have, everyone is on a level playing field. There is such a blend of different people; you can’t tell the backgrounds of people.”

It speaks volumes that the Dorseys chose Waterways after being in so many places throughout the world.

“The way people embrace you is unique.”

Leaving the Cold Behind While Building Their Dream Home

“We could have never built a house like this in New York.” Kevin and Mary Mitchell lived about 20 miles outside of New York City. They had been searching for a place to retire to and purchased a homesite in Savannah Quarters, just outside of Savannah, GA, two months before COVID hit. Then in December 2020, they moved to a rental home while they build their custom dream home.

“We go to see the progress of the house almost every day,” says Mary. They are spending a lot of their time at Savannah Quarters. “Our biggest negative is when we are playing golf or walking through the community, we have to drive 20 minutes back to our rental home instead of jumping in our golf cart and heading home. We’ve met a lot of the neighbors. In fact, I already know more people at Savannah Quarters than I did after more than 20 years of living in New York.”

The Mitchells are building a large home to accommodate Mary’s large family (she has 16 nieces and nephews who have 18 children of their own). Their family is already looking forward to visiting so they designed a home with a fabulous

outdoor living space to take advantage of the great weather in the Savannah area. They’re also building a covered and a screened-in patio next to each other, which will include an outdoor kitchen and living area, a pool, and a firepit. Their guests are not going to want to leave.

Savannah Quarters is a diverse, multi-generational community, and that was a must-have on their list. Mary says, “I wanted diversity from age to nationalities, and we have that here. There are so many options at Savannah Quarters that cover a large range of budgets.”

The short time they have spent at Savannah Quarters has filled their days. Kevin says, “Sometimes you just can’t fit everything in.” He plays golf several times a week with new friends. They said excitedly, “The community pool opened in April, and sometimes it’s still snowing in April in New York. There’s no need to stay in the snow and pay all those taxes.”

“There are so many options at Savannah Quarters that cover a large range of budgets.”

The Sunny Side of Life

The tax-friendly state of Florida welcomes new residents every year to upscale retirement and residential communities with resort-style amenities that can be enjoyed year-round.

0.93% average property tax rate— 10% below the national average

Homestead exemption: up to $50,000 in assessed value; additional $50,000 for residents 65+

Sales tax rate: 7%, groceries, prescriptions, and over-thecounter medications exempt

No estate or inheritance taxes

Florida has no state income tax, nor does it tax income from pensions, IRAs, 401(k) plans, or Social Security benefits.”

Every winter, snowbirds from colder climates flock to Florida for some warm-weather relief. Many of them take the time to explore beyond their vacation destinations and find luxurious new communities designed for a more active and healthy lifestyle.

While there are well-equipped fitness centers in every community these days, Floridians generally like to get outside for their exercise. Florida has more golf courses than any other state—1,250 at last count—and many clubs last year welcomed a record number of players. There are also 900,000+ recreational boats in Florida and full-service marinas everywhere. From racquet clubs with new pickleball courts to naturepreserve hiking trails from the Panhandle to the Everglades, Floridians enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle 365 days a year.

New Florida residents are also delighted to find an abundance of cultural diversions, gourmet restaurants, and upscale shopping centers all around them. The closer you look, the more that Florida has to offer.

Kennedy Space Center

Located on the Florida Space Coast less than an hour east of Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center is a living museum with an IMAX theater, a garden of giant rockets, and hands-on learning exhibits for kids of all ages. It’s also NASA’s primary launch pad for new satellites, unmanned interplanetary missions, and SpaceX crews heading to the International Space Station.

KennedySpaceCenter.com

Pickleball Heaven

Pickleball may not be the most popular participant sport in Florida— yet—but it’s undoubtedly the fastestgrowing, with new courts by the dozen opening every month in public facilities and private communities throughout the state. And the Minto US Open Pickleball Championships returned this spring after a one-year hiatus with 2,000+ players at the 60-court East Naples Community Park complex.

USOpenPickleballChampionship.com

The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a bucket-list travel destination, a series of tropical islands connected by the 127-milelong Overseas Highway. World-class sport fishing and eco-tours that include scuba diving on the coral reefs are primary recreational attractions. Key West features historic sites like the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Tennessee Williams Theatre for performing arts, and the new Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheatre for music concerts.

Fla-Keys.com

JACKSONVILLE

Vibrant Riverfront City

Downtown Jacksonville straddles the St. Johns River and features the Southbank Riverwalk and the Five Points neighborhood with its trendy cafés and shops. It’s the business hub of northeast Florida and just a short drive from popular oceanfront destinations like Amelia Island, Jax Beach, and Ponte Vedra.

Population: 1,505,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Jacksonville International Airport

Healthcare: Jacksonville’s Mayo Clinic and Baptist Medical Center are rated among Florida’s top five medical-services facilities.

Culture: The Florida Theater stages weekly productions, the Cummer Museum of Art features traveling exhibitions, and MOSH! is the city’s signature Museum Of Science and History.

Must-see: The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is one of the nation’s finest, with natural habitats for 2,000+ animals and 2.5 acres of blooming sculpture gardens.

DAYTONA BEACH

Start Your Engines

Best-known for its annual Daytona 500 race at the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach has long been a popular vacation destination that features 23 miles of Atlantic oceanfront, amusement park rides and arcade games along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, and music concerts at the seaside Daytona Beach Bandshell.

Population: 649,000

Transportation: Daytona Beach International Airport Healthcare: Halifax Health is the area’s largest medical provider with a top-rated hospital and a network of local specialty practices.

Culture: The Brown Museum of Art is home to the world’s largest collection of paintings by Florida artists. The Museum of Arts and Sciences is a Smithsonian-affiliated learning center with a planetarium and other kid-friendly exhibits.

ST. AUGUSTINE

A History of Culture

Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine’s many noteworthy historic sites include Mission Nombre de Dios, the Cathedral Basilica, and the star fort of Castillo de San Marcos. The downtown area is a popular visitor destination with museums, antique shops, sidewalk cafés, and lively wine bars.

Population: 17,217

Healthcare: In addition to various local specialty practices, Flagler Hospital is the area’s top high-performing medical center.

Recreation: The World Golf Hall of Fame is a must-see attraction for lovers of the game, located in the World Golf Village destination resort with two on-site championship courses and the original Murray Bros. Caddyshack Restaurant.

Great Walks: The downtown Bayfront Walk is perfect for after-dinner strolls, and the nearby Anastasia State Park features four miles of undeveloped oceanfront.

WELCOME TO A NEW KIND OF HOMETOWN

Live in a place where you can walk to work, the coffee shop and even the doctor. Where parks and trails keep you connected to the land, community-wide WiFi keeps you in tune with the world.

What is a new kind of Hometown? It’s innovation, technology and sustainability creating a life only imagined before, now being enjoyed to the fullest.

OCALA

Home on the Range

Ocala is a regional commercial center and “Florida’s Horse Capital,” home to hundreds of horse-breeding farms and facilities that host major national horse shows every year. The revitalized downtown historic district includes museums, galleries, and farm-fresh restaurant menus, while the nearby Ocala National Forest offers excellent hiking trails.

Everything we need is right at our fingertips—nothing’s more than a bike ride away! I love the educational opportunities available through our Lifelong Learning Program, and we both enjoy yoga and strength-training opportunities to remain active. There are so many natural springs in this area, and kayaking and canoeing the beautiful creeks and rivers is great fun. We rarely feel the need to get in our car. People are so friendly and will always speak when we meet them out in our community. This is the only 55+ community that we visited, and we hit the jackpot. I just can’t fathom living anywhere else!”

Laura Lane Bender

On Top of the World Ocala, FL

PORT

Population: 354,000

Transportation: Ocala International Airport

Healthcare: Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital are part of the Ocala Health network, including orthopedic, cardiovascular, and cancer treatment centers.

Culture: The cultural scene in Ocala includes the Appleton Art Museum, Brick City Center for the Arts, the Ocala Civic Theatre, and the NoMa Gallery collaborative artist workplace.

Art Walk: The three-acre Tuscawilla Art Park with outdoor sculptures along winding garden paths highlights the city’s public art tour.

ST. LUCIE The Art of Coasting

Port St. Lucie is located in the heart of Florida’s Treasure Coast, which features more than 20 miles of oceanfront where you can sun, stroll, collect shells, learn to surf, and even ride horses on the beach. Enhance your itinerary with tours of the St. Lucie Village Historic District and rambles along the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail.

Population: 473,000 (metro area)

Culture: Leading cultural attractions include the Baccus Gallery & Museum, eclectic Underground Art Market, McAlpin Fine Arts Theatre, Pineapple Playhouse, and Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society.

Recreation: Popular outdoor adventures include kayaking on the local rivers and lagoons as well as deep-sea fishing trips that depart daily from more than a dozen full-service marinas.

Must-see: The Oxbow Eco-Center is an environmental learning center for the entire family, with wilderness trails throughout the 225-acre site, hands-on nature exhibits for the kids, and a courtyard butterfly garden.

There has never been a better time to build your dream home with your own personalized design!

If you’re interested in a diverse lifestyle with unique experien are looking for.

Our community takes the phrase "active adult lifestyle" to a new level, with our world-class amenities and endless outdoor recreational activities

If you're considering Florida for a second home or retirement living, then you owe it to yourself to see all that our community and location have to offer!

TAMPA

Reinvigorated by the Bay

The Tampa Bay area on Florida’s Gulf of Mexico coast includes Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater.

Downtown Tampa is in the midst of an urban renaissance, while new luxury waterfront communities located throughout the area have made it one of the state’s fastest-growing regions.

Population: 3,091,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Tampa International Airport

Healthcare: Top-rated area providers include Tampa General, Morton Plant Hospital, St. Joesph Hospital, and AdventHealth.

Super Walk: The signature 2.5-mile Tampa Riverwalk winds through waterfront parks with stops at the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Sparkman Wharf entertainment district.

Home Teams: The NFL’s Buccaneers, MLB’s Rays, and NHL’s Lightning all play in the Tampa Bay area. Visitors and residents can play at Busch Gardens Tampa, Adventure Island, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park.

SARASOTA

Arts and Leisure

Located on the Gulf Coast south of Tampa Bay, Sarasota features new upscale residential communities, a walkable downtown area, and convenient access to six barrier islands—like Longboat Key and Siesta Key—with public beaches and parks, nature trails, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants.

Population: 805,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

Healthcare: Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is the region’s leading medical provider with a flagship downtown hospital and an expanding cancer-treatment center.

Culture: The Sarasota Art Museum, the Venice Art Center, the Circus Arts Conservatory, and the Selby Botanical Gardens top the long list of cultural assets in the Sarasota area.

Recreation: In addition to playing on dozens of area beaches and golf courses, Sarasota residents can walk the Thompson Park nature trails, splash around at Arlington Park & Aquatic Center, and charter a boat for the best Gulf fishing.

When we were looking for a retirement home in Florida, Leslie and Irv Rothschild from Bright Realty provided a firsthand tour of the Sarasota area and showed us just how Lakewood Ranch checked all of our retirement home “must-haves.” The location is great—close to both Sarasota and Tampa—and offers everything you could dream of. We love our community, and Irv and Leslie continue to be valuable resources as we settle into our new home. We look forward to experiencing all that Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota have to offer over the years ahead!

Annette & Lyle Lakewood Ranch | Sarasota, FL

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HOME

MORE CHOICES. MORE CONNECTIONS.

At Lakewood Ranch, the idea of home goes well beyond your own walls and windows. You’ll feel that same sense of comfort and belonging whether you’re shopping on Main Street, exploring a new trail, or joining neighbors for morning yoga. Come see why it’s the best-selling community in the country for all ages – and why soon, there might be no place you’d rather be than home.

NAPLES Coastal Style

The Naples area on the southwest Florida Gulf Coast includes luxury residential developments on Marco Island and throughout the region. Fifth Avenue South in historic downtown Naples is where you’ll find gourmet restaurants, casual cafes, art galleries, jewelers, bookstores, and professional offices.

Population: 373,000 (metro area)

Healthcare: Providers include two full-service NCH hospitals, Physicians Regional Medical Center, and HealthPark Medical Center.

Natural Attractions: The Naples area features kayak adventures and hiking trails at several local state parks and wildlife refuges plus the nearby Everglades National Park. More sedate outings include tours of the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens and the Naples Botanical Garden.

Festive City: Naples residents love to celebrate with annual events like the New Year’s Art Fair, Southwest Florida Nature Festival, Winter Wine Festival, and Craft Beer Festival. There’s even a Shakespeare Festival every spring that’s free to attend.

ORLANDO

The Attractions of Life

Orlando is among the world’s biggest tourist destinations, with theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, but it’s also a hometown for millions of working families and retirees. They’ve found a lot to love in the upscale communities surrounding the downtown area, with 77 city and neighborhood parks, fresh-from-the-farm markets, and a sunny year-round climate that puts resortstyle recreation on the daily calendar.

Population: 2,510,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Orlando International Airport

Healthcare: AdventHealth, Orlando Health, and HCA Healthcare are the leading provider networks in central Florida. The Orlando VA Medical Center opened in 2015.

Culture: The Orlando Museum of Art is among the nation’s best. The Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts symphonies and ballets. The Orlando Shakespeare Theater is one of several local companies with shows every weekend.

Recreation: There are more than 100 golf courses in the Orlando area plus kayak excursions on the Indian River, nature hikes at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, and soaking-wet fun at the Orlando Watersports Complex.

PANAMA CITY BEACH

A Colorful Destination

Panama City Beach on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida has long been a popular vacation destination, renowned for the area’s 27 miles of sugar-sand beaches and blue-green waters. Just across the Grand Lagoon, Panama City features cultural venues and professional services in its historic downtown.

Population: 199,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport

Healthcare: Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital and Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center are among the area’s top-rated providers.

Leisure: Pier Park is one of several local entertainment hubs with gourmet seafood

WEST PALM BEACH

Lifestyles of Luxury

West Palm Beach is synonymous with traditional upscale Florida neighborhoods and luxury retirement communities. The city has a lively downtown area that features sidewalk cafes on trendy Clematis Street, the Rosemary Square shopping and entertainment district, art galleries in Northwood Village, and treasures to discover along Antique Row.

Population: 110,000

Transportation: Palm Beach International Airport

Healthcare: The unique Health Care District of Palm Beach County includes the top-rated Lakeside Medical Center, the Brumback Primary Care Clinics, and the Healy Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Culture: The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts has four theaters for music concerts, theatrical plays, ballet productions, and operatic performances. The Norton Museum of Art is renowned for its international exhibitions.

restaurants, the latest beach fashions, and live-music nightlife, but it’s the only one with a SkyWheel for sweeping views 200 feet above the waterfront.

Recreation: Hike for 11 miles on the longest of the Conservation Park loop trails, ride a double-decker pontoon boat for a day of collecting on uninhabited Shell Island, and take a sailboat cruise at sunset to meet the local dolphins.

PENSACOLA

A History of Hospitality

Located on the western end of the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is proud of its 450 years of multi-cultural history and its revived downtown area that features fine dining, wine bars, dance clubs, and live courtyard music in the Seville Quarter. Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key are just across the bay.

Population: 488,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Pensacola International Airport Healthcare: West Florida Hospital and the Baptist Health Care network are leading area providers. The Naval Hospital Pensacola serves local veterans and their families.

Culture: In addition to aviation and maritime museums, the Pensacola performing arts scene features local professional theater, ballet, and opera companies plus a symphony orchestra.

Recreation: Take an eco-tour, charter a fishing boat, climb to the top of the Pensacola Lighthouse, catch a game at the waterfront Blue Wahoos Stadium, or enjoy a Saturday stroll through the downtown Palafox Market with 200+ art, craft, and food vendors.

Nine, Wine, and Dine

That’s how Susan and Bill Voshell enjoy their life at Villages of Citrus Hills… “Nine, Wine, and Dine.” They relocated to this masterplanned community in Central Florida in March of 2019 from the Atlanta area and could not be more pleased with their new active lifestyle. Their family knew Florida well and had vacationed in Sarasota for the last 30 years.

and a familiar place that we had been living. Even right now, we met three different couples who are moving here in the future. We’ve already formed a great connection.”

They love the central location that is about an hour’s drive from both Orlando and Tampa. One of their favorite things to do is to watch the space launches from Cape Canaveral as they can view them with the naked eye from their driveway or the golf course.

“The weather is just beautiful here. We play golf year-round.” Bill has been an avid golfer, and Susan learned to play what she terms COVID golf. She says, “During COVID, I learned how to play golf, and I’m enjoying it. I’m more of a 9-hole golfer, but Bill is more of a competitive golfer.” Even though their styles are vastly different, they enjoy playing together along with their friends.

When speaking of relocating to Citrus Hills, Susan says, “I associate it with when you are young and going to college for the first time, and you meet all of the people from around the United States. That’s what it is like here. Everyone is looking for new experiences and new friends. We all left families

“I didn’t think we would buy a golf cart, but we did. And, we love it.” Though not a golf cart community per se, they ride their cart around the well-manicured neighborhood to participate in their very active lifestyle. Susan enjoys yoga, pilates, and spinning classes but especially the on-site spa. She’s even learned to play bocce and mahjong. “We can hardly keep up with all the things that we want to do,” Tom adds.

But it’s not all fun and games; they also volunteer to help the underserved neighboring community. As a former teacher, Susan still offers her services as a substitute teacher in the neighboring schools.

“I can’t imagine living anywhere but here. It’s almost like it was made for us,” Susan concludes.

“I can’t imagine living anywhere but here. It’s almost like it was made for us.”

A Sustainable Florida Community

“Really, it is in a lot of ways a new and innovative place, which is something else that excites me.”

Matt Shapton and his wife Shawn recently relocated their family to Babcock Ranch, a planned community in Florida with sustainability built into its vision.

What exactly is sustainability, you might ask? As Matt describes it, sustainability is “using the resources we need today … without hurting the opportunity for future generations to do the same.”

One of the things that Matt says drew him in was the attention that developers put into renewable energy. “I was an electrician, so I am familiar with how solar energy works. It’s so exciting to think that there is a city that is powered by solar energy.” In fact, Babcock Ranch has been named as the first solar-powered town in the U.S. And, the homes exceed Florida’s efficiency standards, some by around 30%.

But, it’s not just the electricity that interested the couple. “The more you live here, the more you learn that every aspect of the way that this city is being designed has an emphasis on the environment: land usage, green spaces,” Matt

notes. More specifically, Babcock Ranch predominantly uses native plants in their landscaping and recycles water used for irrigation. Matt adds that Babcock Ranch also has developed the area in order to support its growing population without adding environmental strain.

Babcock Ranch is also surrounded by a nearly 70,000-acre nature preserve that exemplifies Florida’s reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. Matt is particularly enthusiastic about this aspect of the community as a self-proclaimed nature lover and someone who spent time volunteering at the Loggerhead Marine Life Center.

Matt also says that he and his wife are excited to be learning new things all the time with the help of their neighbors, and the environmental interest truly fosters a sense of community and growth, not just for the residents but for visitors as well.

Babcock Ranch has become a model community for exemplifying sustainability in every aspect of the development, and Matt and Shawn are delighted to be a part of this new movement. “It’s truly an amazing place to be.”

Whether you’re exploring the magnificent St. Johns River, walking miles of trails or meeting new friends at the RiverClub, you’ll love the unique coastal Old Florida feel. WaterSong at RiverTown is close to everything that’s important to you – but far away enough to feel like an oasis.

For

In addition to all of RiverTown’s amenities, you’ll enjoy exercising and socializing at WaterSong’s planned, exclusive resident-only offerings:

BUILD THE HOME YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED.

Dreaming about a home with plenty of open space for entertaining? How about a soaking tub in your first-floor owner’s suite bathroom? You know exactly what you want in your new home — and you should have it all.

At Landmark Homes, we’ll make sure that your home designed exclusively for luxurious and laid-back 55+ living looks and feels the way you’ve always imagined. Because if home is the happiest place on earth, then the building process should be all about you.

CORTLAND PARK - Cumberland County

• Resort-style community with private clubhouse

• Single family and townhomes from the $300’s

HOME TOWNE SQUARE - Lancaster County

• Community clubhouse with outdoor pool

• Arts and Crafts style homes from the $400’s

STONECROFT VILLAGE - Berks County

• Natural valley setting with scenic mountain views

• 1 and 2-Story homes from the $300’s

SWEETBRIAR - Lebanon County

• Community clubhouse with outdoor pool

• 1 and 2-Story homes from the $300’s

WINDING CREEK - Lebanon County

• Minutes from Hershey, PA attractions

• Clubhouse with pool and tennis court

100

Best Places TO LIVE

The following pages contain Ideal-LIVING's Top 100 Planned Amenity Communities. Whether you are looking for the perfect retirement destination or for a new active lifestyle while still working, you can find any amenity for the lifestyle you desire within the following pages.

TOP 10 REASONS TO LIVE IN A PLANNED COMMUNITY

Logan Homes Savannah Quarters

Keowee Key Compass Pointe

1

Lots of Open Space. In today’s world, it is more important than ever to have open spaces and fresh air. Planned communities provide well-maintained outdoor spaces with plenty of room to social distance with your friends. 2 Make Friends Easily. It’s easy to meet people and make friends. 3

Sense of Community. Almost everyone in a planned community has moved from somewhere else. It’s a very welcoming environment. 4 5

Walkable Communities. Almost every planned development has a network of walking trails throughout to help residents stay in shape.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle. Planned communities offer many amenities that encourage a healthy lifestyle from golf, tennis, and pickleball to pools and workout facilities with fitness classes and even fitness directors.

6 7 8 9 10

Social Clubs. Join any type of club that interests you, and if there isn’t one, you can always start one, and others will join you.

Sense of Security. Many planned communities are gated with 24/7 security.

Beautifully Maintained Homes. Planned communities have architectural guidelines that ensure the design integrity of the home.

Lush Landscapes. Planned communities are built around perfectly managed green spaces (especially when there is a golf course) and are filled with beautiful flora and fauna.

A Chance to Give Back. Community organizations within the developments offer an environment to volunteer your gifts.

100

Best Planned Communities

venture out

DISCOVERY TRAVEL

ideal-LIVING invites you to get out and explore communities to find your ideal destination. You won’t know until you go. Here’s a sampling of Discovery Travel opportunities with over 100 more that can only be found online.

available only on

.com/ventureout

BRUNSWICK FOREST – WILMINGTON, NC

Located just minutes from historic Wilmington and not far from beautiful beaches, Brunswick Forest is a 4,500-acre wooded retreat on the coast. Here, days are filled with rounds of golf, tennis or pickleball, strolls along paths and trails, swimming, and more. Not to mention, a wide range of home designs to suit your dreams. Experience the coastal getaway package with a 3-day/2night stay with accommodations, a customized tour of Wilmington, a VIP tour of the community, a round of golf, and full property owner privileges for all of Brunswick Forest's fabulous amenities.

MINTO ARTESIA – SUNRISE, FL

Artesia is a contemporary blend of urban, suburban, and resort lifestyles. This is a picture perfect paradise of exceptional architectural diversity and cutting edge designs for today's global lifestyle with the look, feel, and style of cultivated villas. Outside your home, enjoy the palatial Villa Artesia Club and its full complement of amenities. Inside your home, enjoy a gourmet kitchen, elegant master suite, high ceilings, and spacious living areas. Artesia's superior location in Sunrise, FL, is at the epicenter of south Florida and has easy access to everything nearby.

You won’t know until you go!

DISCOVERY TRAVEL

VICTORY AT VERRADO – BUCKEYE, AZ

David Weekley Homes is proud to offer award-winning, energyefficient homes in the 55+ community of Victory at Verrado. This beautiful community offers thoughtfully-designed, single-level floor plans to meet the quality design standards you're seeking. In Victory at Verrado, immerse yourself in a variety of community activities and neighborly get-togethers.

NOBLE'S POND – DOVER, DE

Noble's Pond offers a wide array of one- and two-story single family homes in a 'Main Street Americana' design concept. Situated on 293 acres with wooded areas and natural habitats, Noble's Pond provides a peaceful serene setting just minutes from downtown Dover, DE. As a resident, you'll also enjoy the swimming pool with an Olympic lap lane, putting green, four bocce courts, community garden, pickleball and tennis courts, five-acre pond with pier and observation deck, and nature trails. Delaware taxes for retirees are ranked #1 in the Northeast.

DATAW ISLAND – BEAUFORT, SC

Dataw Island, a private golf club on the coast of South Carolina near Beaufort, is bustling with activity under the beauty of centuries-old live oaks draped with Spanish moss, from golf on two courses to a day at the spa. The Sweetgrass Restaurant and Bar offers a menu of fresh, local seafood you can enjoy while overlooking the marina. Its intriguing blend of amenities are equally active and relaxing. Enjoy a 3-day/2night stay with accommodations, unlimited golf and tennis, community center access, complimentary meal, island tour, and more for $435.

THE LANDINGS – SAVANNAH, GA

Located on the Intracoastal Waterway not far from the charming city of Savannah, GA, The Landings on Skidaway Island is your own island paradise. Taking in the stunning scenery will be the first order of business, and you'll quickly get swept up into an array of exciting amenities: six golf courses, two deep water marinas, five pools, and much more. You can experience it for yourself on a 3-day/2-night stay with accommodations, round of golf or island boat tour, personalized community tour, and bikes to explore on your own.

To find more than 100 Discovery Travel opportunities, visit ideal-LIVING.com/ventureout

Mid-Atlantic

You may think that the East Coast is congested, filled with highways, and lacks natural beauty. You’d be wrong. While the development of the Mid-Atlantic’s major cities has certainly changed the region’s cultural landscape, there are still forest-covered mountains, rolling foothills, and sandy beaches to be enjoyed.

Birthplace of the United States

The birth of the United States took place in the Mid-Atlantic, and many communities have held on to their historical heritage and revolutionary charm. That’s not to say it’s a sleepy place; diverse cities, major airports, and increased connectivity amongst states make this an ideal spot if you want the best of both worlds.

NEW HAMPSHIRE Untouched Beauty

With 81% of its land covered in forest, it will be easy to get lost amongst the natural beauty of New Hampshire. Explore the White Mountain National Forest, hike along the Lost River, and summit Mount Washington, the highest peak in the eastern United States. For the more artistically inclined, the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester has an extensive collection, spanning from Renaissance masters to contemporary photography.

Although New Hampshire doesn’t levy a tax on earned income, the state does tax interest and dividend income at a 5% rate. Unfortunately, property taxes are high (2.18%), and the median sales price of single-family homes has risen more than 15% in the last year. Prices in the mid $300k range are not unusual. But for those who prize natural beauty and the small-town feel of the Northeast, the value of New Hampshire is priceless.

Eastman’s motto should be ‘We’re all in this together.’ There are thousands of volunteers who help the community, from making sure our lake is free of invasive species and chipping in with recreational amenities like the golf course and cross-country trails to planting and watering hundreds of flowers. Because of all the hard work we do alongside our neighbors, we share an enormous amount of pride in Eastman.”

Terri M Grantham, NH

DELAWARE Small but Mighty

The second-smallest state in the country has plenty of ways to pass the time. Beautiful Atlantic shores provide the perfect opportunity to unwind; Rehoboth Beach is arguably the most popular, but Bethany Beach and Cape Henlopen State Park are also worthy of a day by the water. For something a bit grander, visit the historic homes of the DuPont family. Nemours Estate boasts magnificent gardens, while Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library regularly host touring exhibits, and Hagley Museum and Library offers a glimpse into the history of the DuPont family.

Perhaps best of all, Delaware is one of only five states with tax-free shopping. However, income tax ranges from 2.20% up to 6.60%, depending on what marginal tax bracket you fall under. Happily, the effective real estate tax rate is only 0.5%.

PENNSYLVANIA The Key to It All

Pennsylvania is probably best known for the revolutionary spirit of Philadelphia, but don’t overlook Pittsburgh, which has top-quality museums, gardens, and zoos. Wine aficionados will delight in the nearly 300 wineries sprinkled throughout the state; many can be found in the bucolic Lancaster County, home to the Pennsylvania Dutch. For those who enjoy antiquing, a oneweekend-a-year yard sale along 100 miles of country road draws crowds from all over the country. If your interests are more extraterrestrial, some of the finest dark skies stargazing in the East can be found at Cherry Springs State Park.

State income tax is 3.07 % for all income earners, but county- and city-level taxes are not included in that and vary based on location. Property tax for 2021 is 1.58%, and the median price for a home is approximately $180,000.

VIRGINIA

History Is Alive

It’s not surprising that the idea of Earth Day was first dreamt up in Virginia; the Old Dominion is steeped in natural beauty as well as history. Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway and marvel at Shenandoah National Park. Escape to the sandy dunes of the seashore. History buffs will love spending time at Mount Vernon, Monticello, Colonial Williamsburg, or historic Jamestowne. The Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk has one of the finest and most expansive collections in the region, and Wolf Trap in Vienna is the only national park dedicated exclusively to the performing arts.

The average cost of living is only slightly under the national average, with the median home sales price just under $350,000. The effective real estate tax rate is 0.82%, and state income taxes top out at 5.75% for income over $17,000.

Fawn Lake is a gated community featuring a deepwater 288-acre private lake with an Arnold Palmer-designed Signature golf course. Our resort-style community blends the best of nature's amenities with endless opportunities for fun, fitness, and adventure. Whether it's finding that perfect home or creating your own, the lifestyle you've been searching for is here in Fawn Lake.

.

, Virginia

WEST

VIRGINIA

Unusual Delights

Thrills of all varieties await you in West Virginia. For one day a year, it’s legal to BASE jump off the New River Gorge Bridge, which rises 876 feet above the valley floor below. The New River, which flows south to north, is one of many white-water rafting hotspots in the state. In Point Pleasant, the Mothman Festival, held every September, celebrates the legendary local monster. And for heart-stopping views, hike to the Seneca Rocks, with their sheer face cutting through the tree tops of the Monongahela National Forest.

The cost of living in the Mountain State is about 10% below the national average, with property taxes at 0.58% in 2021. Income tax ranges from 3.0 to 6.50% for income over $60,000.

“There are so many things I love about Shepherds Cove, but I would have to say my favorites would be the natural setting, the peacefulness, friendly neighbors, and the feeling of being safe. We love our privacy; however, when we want entertainment or adventure … we’re already there. The things to do and the area’s activities are endless! Another favorite at the top of my list is the farmers market and all their homemade goodies. And, there is no congestion. On top of that, everyone is SO friendly, and I LOVE that.”

Julia Shepherdstown, WV

Nestled in the Potomac Highlands is a private, resort-like community on the Potomac River in the shadow of Shepherdstown - an hour from Metropolitan D.C. Shepherds Cove’s 19 private five-acre homesites provide the economies of utilities hook-ups, low taxes and no ‘impact fees,’ walking trails, private marina, and more. . . all with the convenience and natural beauty of The Highlands. You will fall in love with the natural beauty, friendly locals, fresh food, and clean environment. Purposely choosing a quality community is the opportunity to make an economic and lifestyle investment for yourself and your family. And it’s important to know that the Shepherdstown area holds an infinite array of things to see and do. . . from live theatre, wineries and fine dining to watersports and mountain hiking. . . and so much more in-between.

Visit: www.shepcove.com • 443-301-9868

New Adventures Every Day at Fawn Lake

Stacye and Michael Clark are living out their dream of life on the water, and every day brings new adventures. The two took up the lake lifestyle five years ago when they moved from Tennessee to Fawn Lake in Virginia. The couple decided to make a move when Michael took a new job at a local medical center, and the two were thrilled to be living both so close to D.C., with all of its museums and monuments and only seconds from the water.

them coming back to visit. Plus, there’s just so much to do: from swimming and fishing to kayaking and boating. The couple is also enjoying teaching the little ones to waterski. The lake provided a refuge throughout COVID, keeping Michael and Stacye from feeling too cooped up. Stacye even noted that, surprisingly, she likes the lake better than the ocean due to the lake’s calming presence in her life.

When they aren’t in the water, Stacye and Michael are active members of the community. They both joined a Global Affairs club that meets monthly to discuss current international issues like supply chain management and global warming. “Everybody leaves politics at the door,” according to Stacye, which is an aspect that she enjoys. Stacye has also recently joined the wine society, which allows its members to enjoy wine tastings and chef-prepared dinners. And, Michael is an avid golfer, which has kept him busy during the pandemic.

The couple also enjoys the shared sense of community in Fawn Lake. Stacye particularly loves that she is able to talk to people from so many different backgrounds. She says, “It’s just a wide variety of people who have such interesting stories and history. So, nobody’s the same, and I find that fascinating.”

The lake, for the couple, is a tool to bring their family together. Their two children and two grandchildren love the lake, and it keeps

It’s easy to see that Michael and Stacye have found their little slice of paradise in Fawn Lake. “It’s peaceful. It’s tranquil, and it’s a great lifestyle for us.”

“It’s peaceful. It’s tranquil, and it’s a great lifestyle for us.”

ARE YOU OLD ENOUGH?

Located in award-winning Brambleton, in the heart of Loudoun County, Virginia, Birchwood has become the best-selling active adult community around. Buyers have fallen in love with this new, walkable community where everything you want is at your fingertips including a 20,000 square foot clubhouse with indoor and outdoor pools, open spaces and trails, shopping and dining.

Birchwood is within easy access to Dulles International Airport, the nation’s capital, the new Metro extension and dozens of wineries, breweries and historic sites.

Choose from condominiums, carriages and single-family homes with furnished models by nationally recognized homebuilders Van Metre Homes and Tri Pointe Homes.

Plan your visit today. Move in this year.

Army Veteran Finds Tranquility in Pennsylvania

David Calhoun (77) and Peggy Jennings (64) met 10 years ago and have been married for eight. Two years ago, they built their perfect home in the countryside of Pennsylvania. Tucked away in north Lebanon, just 20 miles east of Harrisburg, PA, they found The Crossings at Sweetbriar by Landmark Homes. At Landmark Homes, they specialize in meeting the needs of home buyers age 55 and over.

David says, “Landmark Homes has great attention to detail and incredible communication in the building process. We found the style that we wanted, and then we were able to make changes. The folks at the design center gave us the options, and there was no pressure. The developers really thought through all of the details.”

“It’s a question of watching it happen, letting it happen, or making it happen,” he said, “and making it happen is almost always better.” David and Peggy are making it happen in their life in Sweetbriar. “We had this home built exactly the way we wanted. The folks here were so great. Even the neighbors took photos and videos and sent them to us while we were building.”

After Peggy (Dr. Jennings) retired from a teaching career, she started a business as a certified educational planner. She helps young people get their paperwork ready for college while work-

“It’s a question of watching it happen, letting it happen, or making it happen. And making it happen is almost always better.”

ing from their home. Both Peggy and David participate in a local TV show called Brain Busters, where high school kids compete.

As an Army veteran, David worked in 28 countries and served as a military advisor in Vietnam, spending most of his time in Laos. His last tour of duty was in Europe, where he was able to study in France and Germany. He likes to give back, so he now serves as a senior veteran ambassador.He interviews army veterans to tell their stories that are archived at the Army Heritage Center and some at the Library of Congress.

They are so happy with their life at Sweetbriar that they are bringing additional family members to the community as well.

READY TO PARTY?

What are you waiting for? Aren’t you overdue to attend that ‘60s-themed party, discover new trails with your four-legged friend, or sign up for a new fitness class?

When you live at Noble’s Pond you have a never-ending list of new activities to try, right in your own community, plus easy access to many local attractions. So step out and discover what Noble’s Pond living is all about.

The Land of Natural Wonders

Zerostate income tax and no taxes on pensions, IRAs, 401(k)s, Social Security, interest, or dividend income.

No estate or inheritance taxes.

Property taxes are well below the national average—median property tax rate is $636 per $100,000 of assessed home value. Additional state and local exemptions available for most retirees and all residents age 65+.

Average new home and homesite prices are significantly less than the national average, while property values statewide have risen more than 7% in recent years.”

From the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the banks of the Mississippi River in the west, Tennessee truly is a land of natural wonders. The state’s genuine four-season climate features mild winters and comfortable days with relatively low humidity in the summer. Tennessee is perfect for year-round outdoor recreations, whether you prefer to hike the highland trails, tee it up on championship golf courses, boat, kayak, or fish on the numerous freshwater lakes.

In addition to being a tax-friendly place to live, Tennessee has the fifth-lowest average annual cost of living in America, more than 10% below the national average. That includes lower-than-average monthly costs for budget basics like housing, groceries, and utilities. Of perhaps greatest importance to retirees and other senior residents, Tennesseans pay nearly 11% less on healthcare costs than Americans in other states.

Tennessee offers retirees and families plenty of choices for their next place to call home with new and established luxury communities located throughout the state.

Cumberland Trail

Managed by the state on public lands but mostly built and maintained by local volunteers, the 210-mile Cumberland Trail is one of America’s most scenic hiking destinations. With currently more than 50 trailheads located throughout Eastern Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau, hikers can choose the right section for their fitness level—from wilderness paths through mountain gorges with waterfalls to steeper climbs along high ridges with spectacular views.

CumberlandTrail.org

Pickleball Heaven

The Tennessee Main Street program is one of the nation’s most successful downtown revitalization initiatives. There are now 34 accredited Main Street communities in Tennessee that benefit from grants and shared expertise to preserve historic sites and traditional architecture, while at the same time paving the way for new retail businesses, medical centers, and professional services in small towns that have found new life in the 21st century.

TennesseePreservationTrust.org

Centennial Park

The 132-acre Centennial Park in downtown Nashville was the site of the city’s 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition. Today, it hosts open-air community festivals and features walking trails, sunken gardens, a bandshell, an art center, a sports complex, and one of the South’s most unique attractions—a full-scale replica of the iconic Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, complete with an art gallery and a 42-foot-tall statue of the goddess Athena.

Nashville.gov/Parks

CHATTANOOGA

Located in the state’s southeastern highlands along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga was named by Outside Magazine as the “Best Town Ever” for an unprecedented two years in a row. That’s due in no small part to the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in the area, including kayaking and canoeing on the local waterways, rock climbing and hiking in the surrounding mountains, and just about every other activity from golf and tennis to whitewater rafting and cave exploration.

Downtown Chattanooga has preserved its historic churches and gracious urban neighborhoods, while also featuring acclaimed attractions like the Hunter Museum of American Art, the Creative Discovery Museum with hands-on exhibits for the kids, and the Tennessee Aquarium. You can easily walk from site to site or take the free electric shuttle to your chosen destination. The weekly Sunday market is a great place to buy farm-fresh fruit and vegetables and shop for local arts and crafts.

Population: 526,000

Transportation: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport

Healthcare: Memorial Hospital System, Erianger Health System, and Parkridge Hospital System are the Chattanooga area’s leading medical providers.

Culture: The historic Tivoli Theatre is home to the combined Chattanooga Symphony and Opera, which offers shows that often feature visiting performers. The Chattanooga Theatre Center has three stages that offer productions nearly every week, including special shows designed for younger audiences.

Festivals: The National Folk Festival celebrates bluegrass and other traditional American music genres. The Chattanooga Film Festival features movies and documentaries from around the world, and the Chattanooga Hot Air Balloon Festival offers attendees the chance to soar with the birds.

Gig City of the South

Editor's Choice

Tennessee Riverwalk

One of the nation’s best urban waterfront paths for walking, biking, and rollerblading, The Tennessee Riverwalk is a 16-mile paved trail on the southern bank of the Tennessee River. Tours highlight the Bluff View Art District with its galleries, studios, sculpture gardens, cafés, and coffee shops. The Walnut Street Bridge offers pedestrian access across the river to historic neighborhoods and parks. VisitChattanooga.com

Lookout Mountain

Towering above downtown Chattanooga is Lookout Mountain. After riding on the Incline Railway to the mountaintop, you can explore the extensive cave system and check out the 260-foot-high Ruby Falls, America’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall. The site also offers three relatively easy nature paths of about 2.5 miles each plus three very challenging hiking trails of more than 10 miles in length. The climax of every visit is Rock City, sitting 1,700 above sea level with panoramic views overlooking the city. LookoutMountain.com

“Gig

The Electric Power Board (EPB) provides electric power to local customers. It’s also the first municipal utility in America to offer 10-gigabyte, ultra-fast internet connections along with TV and phone service. In fact, EPB’s fiber-optic network now covers a 600-square-mile area that includes neighboring towns and rural communities as well as providing free Wi-Fi at the airport and other city hot spots. Spurring a rapid growth of new start-up companies in the hi-tech sector and has given Chattanooga a new 21st-century nickname: Gig City. EPB.com

104 BATTLECREEK RD, SOUTH PITTSBURG, TN 37380

City”

KINGSPORT

Located in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, many visitors discover Kingsport after attending a race at the nearby Bristol Motor Speedway. But the best way to get to know Kingsport is to take a stroll on the city’s 9.5-mile Greenbelt path that connects the restaurants and shops in the revitalized downtown area with historic sites, community gardens, and the waterfront along the Holston River.

Population: 53,376

Culture: Kingsport cultural highlights include year-round performances by the Kingsport Theatre Guild and Symphony of the Mountains Orchestra plus seasonal festivals that feature the region’s traditional bluegrass music and country crafts.

Recreation: Warriors’ Path State Park and Bays Mountain Park have a combined total of more than 50 miles of scenic hiking and biking paths. Fort Patrick Henry Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, and several local golf courses feature challenging elevation changes.

Creek isn’t just a place to live. It’s a way to rediscover those connections to nature, neighbors, and simple comforts that make our lives worth living.

INTRODUCING THE PASS AT BLACK CREEK | MOUNTAINTOP HOMESITES WITH MAGNIFICENT VIEWS | PRESELLING NOW

COOKEVILLE

Cookeville is the commercial center in the Cumberland Plateau region that includes more than 250 practicing physicians and other medical professionals in the area. The historic Cookeville downtown is a walkable delight that includes Dogwood Park, casual cafés, coffee shops, wine bars, craft breweries, and so many antique stores that it’s a major stop on the Tennessee Antique Trail.

Population: 33,454

Culture: The Cumberland County Playhouse features theatrical presentations, while the Cookeville Center for the Performing Arts is home to one of the best small-town symphony orchestras in Tennessee.

Recreation: Kayak or canoe on the Caney Fork River; then take a hike in the Window Cliffs State Natural Area or Burgess Falls State Park with its four spectacular waterfalls.

Just South of Nashville, is Del Webb’s Southern Springs and it’s full of Southern Charm. You’ll experience beautiful weather with 4 Seasons, extensive resort-style amenities and a vibrant community of neighbors and friends. Virtual and Private Tours are always available. DelWebb.com/SouthernSprings | 615-283-9766

NASHVILLE Music City USA

Population: 1,959,495 (metro area)

Transportation: Nashville International Airport

Healthcare: Vanderbilt University Medical Center is the Southeast’s largest clinical training center and an international leader in biomedical research. The Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) network is among the leading providers in an area renowned for the quality and diversity of its medical services.

Culture: The Frist Center for the Visual Arts, the Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum, and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center are major cultural attractions in a city with its own resident ballet, opera, and symphony companies.

Sports: Nashville is home to the NFL’s Titans, the NHL’s Predators, and the new Nashville SC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise that began play in 2020. The Vanderbilt University baseball team is one of the nation’s best collegiate programs.

Tennessee’s state capital and largest metropolitan area, Nashville, is famous worldwide as “Music City USA” and is considered the home of country music. The Grand Ole Opry started there in the historic Ryman Auditorium, although it has now moved to the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center just outside of town. There’s still plenty of action in the downtown area along the Cumberland River, including trendy restaurants and eclectic music clubs. Nearby is the main campus of Vanderbilt University and its top-ranked medical, law, and education postgraduate programs. In fact, Nashville is one of the South’s fastest-growing cities with new upscale residential communities and major business headquarters.

Memphis is located on the banks of the Mississippi River in West Tennessee and is a thriving Mid-South center of business. FedEx is the region’s largest private employer and has its global air hub just outside of the city. The National Civil Rights Museum is found in downtown Memphis and the historic blues music clubs along Beale Street give the city its signature sound.

Population: 1,348,000 (metro area)

Transportation: Memphis International Airport

Healthcare: The Baptist Memorial Health Care and Methodist Healthcare networks are among the largest providers in an area that also includes St. Francis Hospital Memphis, a regional VA Medical Center, and the famous St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Culture: The Brooks Museum and the Belz Museum are noteworthy visual arts centers, while the Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium feature science and history exhibits. A year-round schedule of Memphis music, art, and film festivals is highlighted by the annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.

Graceland: The 14-acre site about nine miles from downtown Memphis was Elvis Presley’s home, and hundreds of thousands of visitors make the pilgrimage there every year to tour the mansion, gardens, and museum.

KNOXVILLE University Town

Knoxville is eastern Tennessee’s largest city and was the state’s first capital. Today, the city is a regional powerhouse of business and commerce, the headquarters for companies like the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the nation’s largest public power provider, and manufacturers like the Sea Ray Boats company.

The University of Tennessee (UT) has its sprawling flagship campus in Knoxville, with renowned colleges for the liberal arts, medicine, and science. Many UT graduates have taken their skills and created new cutting-edge businesses that are located in the city’s 7,000-acre Tennessee Technology Corridor.

Knoxville also has a lively cultural scene, historic residential neighborhoods, and new communities in the surrounding countryside. The Downtown Market Square hosts a seasonal farmers market every Wednesday and Saturday, and is home to more than a dozen locally-owned restaurants, nighttime music clubs, and annual events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Dogwood Arts Festival.

Transporation: McGhee Tyson Airport

Healthcare: Leading providers in the Knoxville area include the University of Tennessee Medical Center, Parkwest Medical Center, and the Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.

Culture: The Knoxville Museum of Art and the Bijou Theatre are leading local sites for the visual and performing arts, respectively, while the Emporium Center houses multiple art galleries. The McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture features exhibits highlighting the region’s native wildlife and human history.

World’s Fair: Knoxville was the 1982 World’s Fair site that drew millions of visitors from around the globe and jump-started the city’s modern revitalization. You can still ride to the top of the 266-foot-high Sunsphere steel tower for sweeping views from the observation deck and enjoy a play or concert at the Tennessee Amphitheater.

We looked all around the country for a couple of years to find ‘the place’ for our next chapter. We visited Tellico Village, had a tour by a Villager, and decided instantly this was ‘the place.’ The natural beauty, accessibility to shopping and healthcare, four-season climate, all the clubs and activities, and great amenities—we could not believe we found it all in one location. We’ve purchased a lake lot and have started building our new home. We’ve met so many wonderful people during our planning visits; we cannot wait for our home to be completed.”

Dr. James Henry and Susan Kilday Oakton, VA

Editor's Choice

Botanical Gardens

In a city with dogwood trees that bloom in nearly every neighborhood, Knoxville is home to a pair of the South’s best public gardens. The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a 47-acre site that’s free to visit year-round, featuring stone-terrace flower beds maintained by volunteer local gardeners, a Dogwood Nature Trail for refreshing strolls, and a Butterfly Meadow for the young-at-heart of all ages. The University of Tennessee Gardens is a horticultural research facility that hosts annual cultural events like Art in the Garden.

KnoxGarden.org

Jackson Avenue

Located in the Knoxville area now known as the Old City district for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, Jackson Avenue today is a splendid example of successful urban renewal. All along the main drag and adjoining streets, you’ll find upscale restaurants and casual sidewalk cafés, boutiques, art galleries and antique shops, and nightlife entertainment with local performing artists. It’s also the site of the city’s annual Rhythm n’ Blooms Festival.

VisitKnoxville.com

Urban Wilderness

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is a unique 1,000-acre natural recreational destination just three miles from the heart of downtown. More than 50 miles of hiking trails include historic sites like Fort Dickerson Park along the Battlefield Loop and former rock quarries and wildlife management areas on the riverfront South Loop. The Ijams Nature Center is a kid favorite with its learning center, adventure play areas, and mountain bike track. There are also ponds for kayaking, swimming, and fishing plus six separate ziplines that fly through the forest canopy.

VisitKnoxville.com

Tax Treats at Fairfield Glade, TN

There were a few reasons that inspired Diane and Alex Alatorre to relocate from California to Tennessee, but the significant tax savings was one that really sealed the deal. “In the beginning, the difference in tax was not so apparent to us, but as we started to check out other places, we couldn’t believe it!” explains Alex.

“Our agent kept saying, ‘Your property taxes are going to be so much lower,’ but the difference was amazing,” smiles Diane, who describes Fairfield Glade as a ‘dream come true.’ The welcomed financial savings allow the Alatorres to soak up the five different golf courses, crystal clear lakes, and endless interesting activities that Fairfield has to offer.

“Even the gasoline is a saving in itself. It makes a difference to our retirement budget, that’s for sure,” explains Diane, “We have some pretty big vehicles, so that saving is money in our pocket.”

Having custom built their ideal home, in their ideal climate, on an ideal lot, the Alatorres are in their own personal paradise. The happiness in Diane’s voice rings out when she describes how much she loves sitting in her dining room and feeling like she’s in the middle of the woods.

“We love knowing that no one will ever build behind us, which, compared to the developments in California with their five-story homes, is just amazing,” she shares.

The building process took around 18 months, so the Alatorres only moved into their new forever home last month. Even within such a short amount of time, the couple feels like they’ve already made friends for life and are signed up to all sorts of organizations and community events, from live music concerts, to golf tournaments, and swimming in the lake.

What advice would the Alatoores pass on to anyone looking to relocate? “I always think people should drive a neighborhood at night to gain real insight,” smiles Diane, “We did that before we invested here, and it was just as peaceful and beautiful by night as it was by day!”

“We love knowing that no one will ever build behind us.

[It] is just amazing.”

Retiring to an Outdoor Mountain Paradise

Mitch (70) and Nila Clark (69) recently celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary. According to Mitch, “After we were first married, Nila and I visited Chattanooga for a long weekend. As we were walking around Point Park battlefield, I told her when we get old and gray, if we end up at the top of Lookout Mountain, I’d be okay with that. Well, we’re not on top of the mountain, but we can see the mountain every day from our window.”

“It’s got to be the most interesting time to build a house,” Mitch says. But that’s just what the Clarks are doing. They are building a 4,000-sq.-ft. home in Black Creek, only 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, TN. Their new home will be on a sloped homesite with a waterfall and a running creek on their property. They want to spend as much time outdoors as possible, so they are building a large screened porch.

The Chattanooga area drew the Clarks from Indiana, as it’s a nice-sized city that offers something for anyone, no matter their interests. Mitch says, “If you’re a foodie, there’s something here for you. If you like history or outdoor activities, it’s all here, and it’s very affordable. It’s an outdoor paradise. They’ve done a tremendous job developing the riverfront.” Every Friday in downtown, you can find bands playing music and food trucks. There are often music festivals, and they even host outdoor movies.

The Clarks were fortunate enough to rent a home at Black Creek while watching the construction of their new home. There are miles of hiking trails in Black Creek along with a fitness center and a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the mountains. Mitch loves golfing and trout fishing, and he says, “Some people would pay a lot of money to go on vacation to a place like this, but we actually live here.”

“It ’s all here, and it ’s very affordable.”

The South

When one thinks of living in the South, Florida and the Carolinas are usually the first places that come to mind. However, don’t discount their nearby neighbors Alabama and Mississippi, both of which have plenty of Southern hospitality to go around. For those seeking thrills further afield, Arkansas and Texas offer excellent jumping off points for the next adventure. Not to mention, it’s generally less expensive to live in this region — just make sure to invest in a good air conditioner with all the money you’ll save. The South is anything but slow-moving, with both large and small cities steeped in American history, exciting economic prospects, and deep cultural, musical, and culinary traditions.

AVAILABLE IN THREE-DAY, SEVEN-DAY OR LIFETIME SUPPLY.

PEOPLE WHO VACATION IN ARKANSAS OFTEN END UP CALLING THE NATURAL STATE HOME FOR GOOD LATER IN LIFE. FIND OUT WHY THE LOCALS LOVE IT AND OUR VISITORS CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT IT.

MISSISSIPPI Music to My Ears

For good music and even better food, the Magnolia State is where it’s at. The Mississippi Delta is the birthplace of blues, which has heavily influenced jazz, rock, and country music. Jackson, the state capital, boasts an impressive live music scene and a handful of high-quality museums. For added fun, drive or bike along the 444 mile-long Natchez Trace Parkway or escape to Bay St. Louis, an eclectic beach town on the “Secret Coast.” The suburbs of Flowood, Ridgeland, and Madison are particularly attractive places to live. They’re all within 25 minutes of Jackson’s downtown but allow residents to enjoy small town life. Madison is regularly ranked as having one of the best school systems in the state, as well as the best community to retire to in the area.

With the lowest cost of living in the United States, median home values hovering around $120,000, and the highest income tax capped at 5% for individuals and couples making over $10,000, life is good in Mississippi.

ARKANSAS Diamond in the Rough

The Natural State is an ideal location for those looking to get out and explore. The Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges have created a landscape filled with dramatic bluffs, winding rivers, and dense forests ripe with raw beauty. Kayak on the Buffalo National River, delve into the Blanchard Springs Caverns, or take in the sweeping views at Hawksbill Crag or Whitaker Point.

Fayetteville, tucked in the northwest corner of the state and home to the University of Arkansas, is filled with cultural and artistic attractions and diverse culinary offerings. Little Rock, the state capital, has a small city feel and is surrounded by several very attractive suburbs.

The median home value is $127,800, and with an effective real estate tax rate of 0.62%, that’s less than $800 in annual property taxes. For 2021, the highest income tax rate is 5.90%, which applies to any income over $8,000, for both individuals and joint filers.

ALABAMA From the Heart

TEXAS

The “Heart of Dixie” is home to an abundance of cultural history, natural beauty, and fantastic places to live. In the far north, Madison is gaining popularity, thanks to an influx of IT and aerospace manufacturing jobs. This comes as no surprise, since the area is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, 35,000 acres of protected land along the Tennessee River, offers a more terrestrial escape from daily life.

For those looking to be closer to the action, Vestavia Hills and Homewood are two idyllic suburbs just outside Birmingham, the state’s largest city. Fishing and boating enthusiasts will love Spanish Fort and Daphne, situated in the far south on Mobile Bay.

The cost of living in Alabama is over 15% below the national average, and the median home value is $142,700, with an effective real estate tax rate of 0.41%. The highest income tax bracket is set at 5% for income over $3k (individual) or $6k (joint status).

Dream Big, Live Big

Encompassing 268,596 square miles, the Lone Star state is the largest state in the lower 48. And, Texas has NO state income tax and a low cost of living. Gulf Coast shores, verdant bayous, rugged deserts and mountains, and powerful rivers have shaped this geographic jewel. Deep in the Chihuahuan Desert, Big Bend National Park is arguably the most famous natural site in Texas, with the Rio Grande carving through vertical walls of limestone. Don’t miss the stunning Guadalupe Mountains National Park, near the border with New Mexico. For a change of scene, the Padres Island National Seashore, on the outskirts of Corpus Christi, is a sanctuary for birds, turtles, and beach goers alike.

But Texas’ major cities are so rich, you might never want to leave. Houston is one of the few American cities that has permanent, professional companies in all of the major performing arts: ballet, opera, orchestra, and theater. Austin has become an “it” spot over the last few years; its live music scene, BBQ pit masters, swimming holes, and vibrant city life have attracted people from all walks of life to the state capital. In Dallas, museums, gardens, and a large urban arts district keep tourists and long-term residents entertained and inspired. San Antonio is most famous for its beautiful River Walk, but those in the know also visit the trendy Pearl District with world-class cuisine and boutique shopping.

Family Life Under the Arkansas Sun

One of the great misconceptions about planned communities is that they are only for retirees. That’s simply not true according to this couple. Just three years ago, after the birth of their first child, Casey and Courtney Clem decided to move to Hot Springs Village from Atlanta and discovered a vibrant community of working families.

Casey actually learned about Hot Springs Village by spending summers with his grandfather who had retired there. When Casey and Courtney began looking at twobedroom Atlanta apartments, an idea came to them. Casey recalls saying, “I bet you I could get a house on the golf course in the Village for the price of this apartment.” And, they moved shortly after. They were also excited by the property taxes, only $650 per year for their family home, a number that comes as a shock to Casey’s family in California.

Courtney and Casey also enjoy taking advantage of the amenities in Hot Springs

Village. There are multiple hiking trails, nine golf courses, and 11 lakes within the community. Casey particularly enjoys wakeboarding on the lake, going on family hikes, and playing baseball in a local league. Plus, Hot Springs Village has its own police force and is minutes away from both Balboa Beach and downtown Hot Springs.

Casey also has some advice for anyone looking to make a move, “Stop just thinking about it, and just do it.” He says that if you overthink, you can think of a million reasons why it might not work out, and you might miss out on some amazing opportunities. Instead, he recommends coming to stay for a weekend, playing golf, taking a tour, and contacting a realtor. “There are lots of cool ways to try before you buy,” Casey notes.

Clem and Courtney love raising their three daughters in Hot Springs Village along with many other young families, proving it’s not too soon to make a move.

The West

It’s easy to see why Americans have always been drawn west: the landscape, opportunity, and life itself just seems bigger. Home to vibrant cities, more national parks than you could hope for, and some of the most historically significant Native American dwellings in North America, the American West is diverse and bound to inspire. Not to mention, there’s something for everyone, from laidback art enthusiasts to avid outdoorsmen to the suburbanite who wants community and convenience. With such diverse people, communities, and natural surroundings, there’s certainly a “perfect” place for you among the wide expanses of the American West.

NEW MEXICO Absolutely Enchanting

With its immense natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and easy-going way of life, the land of enchantment will capture your spirit.

Although Spain’s colonization left a distinct mark on New Mexico, the state’s native cultures are perhaps even more significant in its essence. Home to over 20 Native American tribes, thousands of years of their history are imbued into the land itself: cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, ruins, and still-occupied pueblos can be found throughout the state.

The list of beautiful sites is as long as the New Mexico horizon is broad: Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands National Monument, the Rio Grande Gorge, and the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness are just a few.

You can take it all in during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which draws nearly 750,000 people to the already vibrant city.

With over 300 days of sunshine across the state, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Taos, Silver City, and Santa Fe are all renowned for their arts scene, while Los Alamos, Las Cruces, and Eldorado at Santa Fe are highly sought-after communities to live in.

ARIZONA Just Grand

Located in the far north of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is one of the most recognizable symbols of the United States. It covers over 1,900 square miles, so repeat visits would never be boring. With a permit and a reservation, you can tackle the challenging hike to Havasupai Falls deep within the canyon— the payoff is definitely worth it. If you ever tire of the Grand Canyon, the narrow walls and dramatic lighting of Antelope Canyon and the historical significance of Canyon De Chelly National Monument are worth experiencing.

For man-made wonders, the enormity of the Hoover Dam always makes an impact. Visit the city of Sedona, nestled amongst a ring of red rocks, to get in touch with your spiritual side. Bisbee, once a mining village, is now a haven for free-spirited creatives.

The average cost of living in Arizona is only just slightly under the national average. That said, the effective real estate tax rate is a relatively low 0.66%. Income tax is divided into five brackets, the highest of which taxes income over $250,000 at an 8.0% rate. Phoenix’s suburb of Paradise Valley and Oro Valley, outside of Tucson, are both desirable places to live.

At The Heart Of It All

UTAH Icons of the West

NEVADA

When you imagine the American West, the mental picture you paint most likely looks like Utah. With five national parks — Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands — along with Monument Valley and Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument, Utah’s landscapes are as iconic as they are magnificent.

With a population of around 200,000 people, Salt Lake City is a well-appointed city with the amenities you would expect, including theaters, museums, and lush public parks. The Gallery Stroll is a favorite local event: every third Friday of the month, nearly 40 galleries across the city are open after hours to allow visitors to browse their collections and meet the artists.

Forty minutes away, in Park City, the world-famous Sundance Film Festival is a platform for the most talked-about films of the year. The festival is open to the public, and singlefilm tickets are $15. Locals can even buy their tickets ahead of the rest of the world.

Utah locals also enjoy a cost of living that is 5% less than the national average and a 0.63% effective real estate tax. Income tax is set at 4.95% for all income earned.

More Than Meets The Eye

Sure, the high-rolling and hard-partying Las Vegas is what most people associate with Nevada. But go outside the shining lights of the city, and you’ll find a stark land filled with the raw power and allure of Mother Nature. Find petroglyphs among the pink and red-hued sandstone of the Valley of Fire State Park. In Red Rock Canyon State Park, hike amongst geological formations that reveal the history of our planet in their striated layers. At Lake Tahoe, you can paddleboard on crystal-clear waters, or ski the snow-capped peaks, depending on the season. And once a year in Black Rock Desert, hundreds of thousands of like-minded people gather for Burning Man, a celebration of art, self-expression, and community.

Just south of Las Vegas, you’ll find Henderson, a small city with an ever-growing downtown; the city itself is close enough to Vegas if you’re feeling like a big night out, but far enough removed to be its own entity. Carson City, situated on the shores of Lake Tahoe, has tons of small-town charm and very affordable houses. Luckily, the effective real estate tax rate is 0.60%, and there’s no state income tax.

Love life and have fun living it.

e Villas at Creekside is a luxury, gated community with a wealth of high-end amenities and natural beauty. Located in a thriving university town, e Villas o ers residents easy access to a multitude of sporting and cultural events. You’ll enjoy exploring new passions, making new friends, and increasing your personal wellness at our active, fun-loving community.

PITTSBURG, KANSAS

TOP REASONS TO CONSIDER the villas:

Experience worry-free maintenance with high-end amenities and no property tax, homeowners insurance, or the costs of maintaining a home.

Work remotely but just steps from a pool, tness center, pickleball court, and more. Enjoy an active community with like-minded neighbors.

Discover the bene ts and security of a smaller town with great medical care.

Engage in the activities & events at the university’s world-class Performing Arts Center.

If you have any questions: info@creeksidepittsburg.com

creeksidepittsburg.com

Artist Rendering

CALIFORNIA What They Say Is True

Residents of California have the world at their fingertips; they can drive from snow-peaked mountains to the beach in less than four hours (traffic not withstanding) or escape from the second-most populous city in the country to complete solitude in less than two hours’ time.

Yet another state with incredible biodiversity, California’s natural wonders need no introduction. Yosemite, The Redwoods, Big Sur, Death Valley, and the Mojave Desert are widely known and frequently visited, for good reason. For a slightly less trafficked but still stunning experience, visit the Channel Islands, Muir Woods National Monument, Alamere Falls, or Bowling Ball Beach.

If you ever tire of nature’s bounty, you can get your fill of cosmopolitan life in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego. Each is rich in entertainment, culture, cuisine, and the arts. LAX is the third-busiest airport in the world and the largest on the West Coast, so international destinations will be that much closer.

For the adventure lover, Eureka may serve as an affordable “base camp.” About 100 miles south of the Oregon border, this small town offers coastal living and easy access to the dense national forests nearby. About an hour north of Los Angeles, Oxnard and Ventura are right on the coast and are much more economical communities.

WASHINGTON

A Hidden Gem

Contrary to popular belief, the Evergreen State isn’t always drenched in rain. Seattle receives about 37 inches of rain a year, compared to 46 inches in Raleigh, NC, and 43 inches in Washington, D.C. The Cascade Mountains bifurcate the state and make the eastern regions dry and plains-like, while the mountains themselves can get 200 inches of snow accumulation annually. This all makes for a wonderfully diverse environment, which you can enjoy at Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, or North Cascades National Park, although the whole state is awe-inspiring.

If you ever get bored of the views, you can visit one of the 1,000 or so local wineries; Washington’s wine region is about the same size as California’s Napa Valley.

You’ll be toasting the state’s very generous tax policy; there’s no income tax, and the state doesn’t tax social security, pension, or retirement accounts. Property is taxed at a rate of 0.98%, and the cost of living is above the national average, especially in Seattle and its immediate area. Olympia, Spokane, and Richland are all more economical options that still deliver on quality of life.

COLORAD0 LIVING THE HIGH LIFE

Skiing is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Colorado, but the Centennial State has so much more to offer than just winter sports. Of course, you can enjoy the après-ski life in Vail, Aspen, Telluride, or Breckenridge —no lift ticket required. All these mountain towns have excellent dining, shopping, spas, and other ways to pass the time besides hurtling down a mountain.

Denver has several art museums, a 23-acre botanical garden, and a nature and science museum. The quaint Larimer Square historic district, now home to boutiques and fine dining, maintains the city’s Old West roots. Just a few miles away from Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheater hosts world-class musical entertainment in one of the most beautiful concert venues in the world.

Of course, the natural surroundings of Colorado are the real show stopper. In Rocky Mountain National Park, you can spot elk, bears, mountain lions, eagles, and other iconic wildlife. If you visit the other worldly landscapes, Garden of the Gods or Great Sand Dunes National Park, you’ll question how a single state can look so drastically different.

Anyone can find happiness in Colorado; the cost of living is just about the national average, the effective real estate tax is at a rate of 0.51%, and the income tax is 4.55% across the board.

KANSAS A PLEASANT SURPRISE

Kansas may not be on your radar, but that might just change. Monument Rocks, large chalk outcroppings rich with fossils, will challenge your perception that the whole state is flat. Prairie used to cover 170 million acres of North America, now less than four percent remains intact. The verdant Flint Hills and the windswept Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve reveal the true beauty of this unique biome. And although they’re man-made, the lavender fields north of Topeka are both fragrant and picturesque.

Kansas isn’t all rural plains though; the state is also home to several cities. The Wichita Art Museum is the largest of its kind in the state. While you’re there, take a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Allen House, or amble through the Botanica Wichita. In Overland Park, the secondmost populous city in the state, you can find the Museum at Prairiefire, an architectural fantasy that frequently displays exhibits from the best natural history museums in the country. The neighborhoods surrounding Overland Park have a strong sense of community and are exceptional places to live.

The state itself is 15% less expensive to live in compared to the rest of the country, and income taxes range from 3.10% to 5.70% on income over $30,000. The typical home in 2021 costs $173,000 and the effective real estate tax rate is 1.41%.

HAS TO STOP.

Start living the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about with Encore by David Weekley Homes. Our lifestyle-driven approach to home design offers the ideal balance of livability with thoughtfully-designed floor plans featuring indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces and a high level of customization to make your new home everything you’ve imagined.

Plus, you’ll delight in more freedom and fun in one of our friendly 55+ lifestyle neighborhoods offering a variety of amenities, clubs and activities – all planned by a lifestyle director – to enhance your active life. These intimate communities make it easy to develop friendships with your neighbors, too.

David Weekley Homeowners

Liz* Deering & Kelli D. Stevens

Although it may sound too good to be true, thousands of people each year are enjoying life for much less money than they could have in the United States. In Latin America, you can choose to live in an amazing climate with quality healthcare, where many of the doctors trained in the U.S. Most people realize after just a short while that they feel better, breathe better, and are just all around healthier. And even better, in many areas, taxes are very low or almost nonexistent. Maybe it's worth considering a trip to some of these amazing destinations.

10 Things to Consider When Moving Internationally

Ability to Fly Home — Investigate ease of access to airports and whether they provide direct flights.

Improved Quality of Life — Many destinations offer lowcost, high-quality healthcare. In addition, investigate your access to organic markets and recreational activities.

Utilities and Infrastructure – Today, the entire planet is online. Verify that you will have uninterrupted internet access with good speed and are connected to a modern power grid.

Climate and Environment – Each destination offers a unique combination of climate, culture, and natural resources.

Local Transportation – Some countries will allow you to import your vehicle for a brief time. However, purchasing a foreign vehicle may have certain restrictions. Investigate public transportation and ease of access.

Insurance and Banking – You’ll sometimes need notarized copies of important documents prior to opening a foreign bank account, gaining citizenship, or accessing healthcare.

Long-Term Residency Requirements – Each destination will have different rules and requirements, and many will want you to verify your income and means of support. You might want to meet with the consulate prior to seeking long-term residency.

Tax Considerations – Consult with a tax professional for both your country of origin and relocation destination.

Personal Effects – Identify the cost of either shipping personal belongings or storing them long-term. Explore local stores, online shopping, and the ability to ship to your location.

Cultural Considerations – Learn at least a little of the language and culture.

MEXICO White Sand Beaches

Mexico has become the most popular international haven for Americans and Canadians. Of the estimated 11.5 million who have chosen to live abroad, more than two million live in Mexico. Moreover, getting back and forth between the countries is effortless with direct flights between major cities.

Mexico boasts diverse climates that range from tropical to temperate mountain air found in higher altitudes. From Yucatec to Tampico, the food of Mexico will delight any palate. You'll also find many living options, from 16th-century colonial towns and metropolitan cities to lake villages and beach towns. Known for its world-class beaches, you have your choice of the palm-fringed Pacific Coast or the powder-white sand beaches of the Caribbean.

The immigration process is streamlined and straightforward, with one of the world's easiest ways to qualify for temporary or permanent residence. And, Mexico offers an affordable cost of living and healthcare.

COSTA RICA La Pura Vida

Living “La Pura Vida” (the pure life) is one reason Costa Rica has become one of the most popular places in the world for North American retirees and expats to relocate. This beautiful country lures people to pack their belongings and reinvent their lives in Costa Rica.

Compared to many other countries in Central America, Costa Rica enjoys far more political and economic stability and has a moderate growth rate. It’s a democratic country that doesn’t seem likely to change. In addition, it has a relatively low cost of living to make it even more convenient, allowing even those with moderate incomes to live in relative comfort. In recent years, Costa Rica has also become the hub of a thriving technology sector.

It is a vast country of rolling mountains, open plains, and lush river valleys. Known as the Switzerland of Central America, Costa Rica has no military, which has allowed military budgets to be diverted to the growth priorities of education, the environment, tourism, and healthcare. Costa Rica has a stable economy and currency, allowing residents to plan their costs and maintain their budgets safely.

BELIZE Amazing Reef Surrounds this

Small English-Speaking Country

Belize provides an excellent opportunity for retirees. Through the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, the government offers qualified retirees an exemption from taxes on all income derived from sources outside Belize.

The second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef, is a series of coral reefs roughly 300 meters offshore in the north and 40 kilometers in the south. Belize is the perfect spot for water sports with some of the world's best snorkeling and scuba diving.

If adventure is what you seek, Belize might just be your place. You can float on an inner tube through a dark underground cavern, see crocodiles in their natural habit, and explore Mayan ruins.

Belize is among the happiest places on earth. It's also known for its great food. And English is the native language, so it's a favorite among North Americans.

PANAMA Between Two Worlds

Embedded between two continents and two oceans, Panama is small in size but enormous in features. It is perfectly packed with geological and biological diversity, rich culture and history, a thriving economy, and a quality lifestyle. For most of the year, Panama is sunny with an average temperature in the mid70s in the mornings and mid-80s in the afternoons. While the rainy season lasts from April to September, there are no hurricanes.

The raw beauty of Panama's landscape offers endless exploration. Visit the stunning archipelagos made up of hundreds of islands. Experience some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. When you add to the mix the country's lush cloud forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers, you'll find you're living in a true natural sanctuary.

Panama has a thriving, stable economy with an affordable cost-of-living and world-class healthcare, while also providing a tax haven.

Investing in Your Well-Being

“

It’s way more than just a house,” smiles Misty Clark from the tropical paradise of Arenal Hills in Costa Rica, “It’s a lifestyle and you have to experience it to really believe it.”

The Clarks had been looking to invest in a second home for over a year. Having more time to make precious memories with family and friends had become a priority, so when they saw a video about Arenal Hills while on a visit to Costa Rica, they decided to go and check it out.

that is built in here.”

The Clarks remember the day they arrived in their new home, complete with fresh towels, new linens, and a fully stocked kitchen. “You literally walk in and sit down in your new home,” smiles Misty.

A new home that is not only ready to roll, but is nestled among the most beautiful natural surroundings anyone could wish for. With gentle sloths inhabiting the trees and parrots flying overhead, the Clarks love the fact that every day brings new wonders to experience first hand.

“Now I wake up earlier than ever and sit with my binoculars to soak up all the amazing wildlife,” says Misty. “There’s something for everyone here.” Whether they are zip lining through the tropical rain forest, relaxing on pristine beaches, or volunteering at the nearby animal sanctuary, the Clarks have found their happy place. They love nothing more than sharing it with their loved ones.

“We were instantly blown away,” shares Shane Clark, “Arenal Hills is far above anything we’d seen in America and anywhere else in Coast Rica.” Emphasizing the amazing price point, value for money, and turn key aspect of this haven, Shane says, “It’s hard to describe the additional value

With the addition of high-speed Wi-Fi and reliable electricity, Arenal Hills is also ideal for working remotely, allowing dreams to become a reality. “We love the people and the culture of Costa Rica. It’s very focused on community, and it’s clear that well-being comes first here. It’s not one of those countries where you say it’s safe if you do this or that. It’s just safe and friendly, and we couldn’t be happier.”