Sailing Forever: Cheaper Than Home and Never Leaving Our Round-the-World Cruise

A pair has stated their intention to embark on a global cruise for the next 15 years in order to avoid increasing expenses at their residence.

Lanette and Johan Canen, who are both 55 years old, have been enjoying life aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship for half a year now. They mentioned that choosing to spend their retirement on this perpetual voyage was an easy decision.

The cruise offers a luxurious residential-style world tour, visiting 425 ports in 147 countries over a period of three and a half years—and their rental ensures they have a cabin for 15 years.

The couple had already been residing together in Hawaii For ten years, they thought they would be content living there until they embarked on a cruise vacation. After encountering the Odyssey, they became completely captivated.

Johan stated to Mail Online: "We owned a rental car business that we sold so we could afford our cabin."

People believe we must be extremely wealthy to manage this, but it actually costs less than our rent and expenses in Hawaii. This lifestyle is accessible to average folks.

The couple have an all-inclusive stay which includes food, drinks, WIFI and a cleaner twice a week - all for just £2,716 a month for the cheapest cabin option.

They had previously come across The World, a luxury residential cruise ship for the 'super rich' where you have to have 'millions worth of assets' just to be considered, Johan claimed. The Oydseyy was a much more affordable option.

To Lanette and Johan, this is about leaving their troubles behind.

'We don't have an exit strategy, we're both 55, we don't need things anymore. We just want adventures and experiences. We went from owning 31 cars to none,' Johan said.

'I find such bliss in having zero obligations here – they handle our laundry for us and change the linens twice weekly.'

The service is exceptional; we feel like kings and queens—they actually bow to us. We have absolutely no complaints, I adore this way of life," Lanette remarked.

If you're sharing a room, it costs only £1,403 per month for each person—roughly equivalent to the typical rental and utility expenses one would face in London—but lacks the level of pampering experienced when traveling globally.

'Lanette stated that with rents increasing globally, this will become the new mode of living.'

Johan commented, "This represents the future, particularly with the rise of remote work."

Currently, the pair resides in the Caribbean and has explored 25 nations up until now, such as Belfast, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, and South America.

Unlike typical cruise ships that remain docked at ports for just one day, passengers aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey have the opportunity to spend up to four days exploring each location.

Lanette and Johan disembarked from their vessel and stayed at a leased vacation home in Benham, Brazil, sharing the space with acquaintances for an affordable rate over the course of two evenings.

They also plan in May to get off at Mexico and visit their one year old grandchild in Arizona, United States, for the first time - where they will sublet their cabin for ten days.

And so far from home, friends and family can even visit them for up to 28 days completely free with their own room.

The couple have made friends on the ship who they consider 'family': 'The people here are so like-minded with shared values, and everyone comes with a story to tell.

'We've become like a family, so you're never alone,' Johan said

He added their favorite place so far has been the Galapagos Islands:  'We saw marine iguanas and sea horses as big as my hand.

'We love nature and unique things. The diversity of the marine life is totally different than anything in the world.

We have the chance to visit places we've never even heard of—locations that are incredibly distinctive and exciting. These destinations aren’t on your list of must-sees until you’ve experienced them for yourself!

However, one downside is that the erratic weather could result in missing out on some must-see locations.

We genuinely wished to visit the Falkland Islands, yet the terrible weather conditions forced them to shut down the port.

And in certain harbors, it might be challenging for the vessel to obtain specific food items for the menu and ensure that everybody is satisfied.

Johan mentioned that since he lives by the sea, he develops 'sea legs,' which help him adapt when he walks on solid ground.

I occasionally feel unsteady, as I need to find my balance during the initial steps, but it doesn’t concern me.

However, despite some minor setbacks, nothing can persuade them to abandon their newfound lifestyle.

It was an easy decision for us—we’re both a little wild and fully committed. Our friends and family didn’t bat an eye since this is just typical of who we are.

"We've got the maturity to handle this, yet we remain young at heart for such an adventure," Johan stated.

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Chaos Architect: How Trump's Escalating Trade Wars Will Affect Your Grocery Bill

These times are marked by high living expenses. Factors such as the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, Russia's attack on Ukraine, elevated fuel and energy costs, along with severe weather events disrupting supply chains, have combined to render numerous basic needs more unaffordable than ever before. Food price hikes, specifically, have emerged as a significant cause of economic strain for countless American families. Despite overall inflation having eased somewhat since reaching an all-time high in 2022, food prices continue to rise. almost one-fourth in the past four years And they're anticipated to keep rising.

"The tale was initially released byصند bezpo Grist . Register for Grist's weekly newsletter here ."

Up until now this year, people across America have encountered a country-wide avian influenza outbreak, leading to the price of eggs reached all-time highs , as rising temperatures and unpredictable precipitation patterns occur throughout Western Africa are rising chocolate costs reach unprecedented levels Years of drought in the United States have also led to record-low numbers of cattle populations. hiking up beef prices The outcome has been soaring grocery costs, reduced family finances, and decreased availability of food.

President Donald Trump's recent trade moves do not seem poised to improve matters. Against a backdrop of numerous declarations regarding halts in federal funding, cancellations of food programs, and widespread government job cuts, the president has oscillated between imposing and retracting sanctions targeted at major U.S. trading allies. Within just one week, he introduced across-the-board tariffs on items coming from Mexico, Canada, and China, granted exemptions for certain products under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement, and escalated duties on Chinese goods before hinting at additional levies on Canadian merchandise. On Tuesday, he instructed his team to increase customs fees on Canadian steel and aluminum imports twofold; however, this directive was later revised down to a 25 percent hike prior to these measures taking effect. effect Wednesday morning , triggering an instant response of counter-tariffs from both Canada and the European Union.

The swinging nature of Trump's trade policies, as economists explained to Grist, will likely result in increased costs at grocery stores. This effect has already begun. spooked financial markets and led major retailers such as Target's CEO Brian Cornell to caution if some of the proposed tariffs come into play, customers might experience price increases on fresh produce "in just a few days."

When dealing with severe weather disruptions, which are damaging our supply chains, climate change is driving up costs and causing food price increases," stated Seungki Lee, an agricultural economist from Ohio State University. He warned that unless policymakers adapt their trade policies accordingly, "to a certain extent, we'll experience the combined effects of tariffs and climate change-induced disturbances on the supply chain.

Duties, which are taxes imposed on products coming into a country from abroad, are often used by governments as bargaining chips in global commerce negotiations, leaving both buyers and sellers affected. Upon entry of these items into the nation, duties are determined based on the worth of the merchandise and must be settled by the importing party. Subsequently, this same entity might opt to transfer those expenses onto customers, particularly noticeable when dealing with commodities such as locally cultivated fruits from Mexico , frequently turns out to be ordinary individuals. Considering the significant reliance of the United States on Canada, Mexico, and China for agricultural commerce, farmers, analysts, industry leaders, policy makers, and the broader public have all voiced concerns. concerns about how tariffs influence the cost of goods at grocery stores and the potential for trade disputes to hinder economic expansion.

In the initial term of President Trump, taxes imposed on China led to reciprocal tariff increases, which severely impacted agricultural exports and commodity prices, resulting in significant losses for the U.S. farming sector exceeding $27 billion which the government subsequently had to cover withString subsidy payouts So far, the United States has not completely regained its lost share of the soybean export market to China. biggest agricultural export market . An analysis conducted by the National Bureau of Economic Research A nonprofit group discovered that the 2018 trade conflict with China primarily resulted in higher prices for Americans, cutting consumer incomes by approximately $1.4 billion each month. The study also revealed that rural farming regions in the Midwest and Mountain West were disproportionately affected by China’s counter-tariffs compared to most other areas.

This time, Trump seems to be intensifying this approach, even as the objectives and communications behind his tariff policies continue to be highly erratic. Economists have labeled the President as an “ agent of disorder and turmoil In total, China, Canada, and Mexico provided approximately Forty percent of the products the United States brought in from abroad last year In 2023, Mexico by itself accounted for approximately Approximately two-thirds of vegetables imported into the U.S., and almost half of the country’s fruit and nut imports. , and about 90 percent of avocados consumed nationwide.

Without considering any reciprocal tariffs, estimates indicate that the duties introduced by Trump last week might result in an average tax hike ranging from $830 a year and $1,072 Per U.S. household, "I'm feeling somewhat anxious about the rise in tension," remarked Lee. "This might result in a swift hike in grocery store prices."

Canada and China have subsequently introduced their own set of tariffs. The duties implemented by Canada last week totaled nearly $21 billion On American goods such as orange juice, peanut butter, and coffee, China introduced 15 percent duties on wheat, corn, and poultry from U.S. producers. Additionally, they implemented 10 percent tariffs on items like soybeans, pork, beef, and fruits. came into force on Monday Meanwhile, Mexico was planning to declare counter-tariffs but rather commemorated Trump’s choice to delay On Wednesday, in reaction to Trump’s increase in tariffs on steel and aluminum, Canadian authorities unveiled a the second tranche of $20.7 billion in tariffs and the European Union stated it would commence counterproductive commercial measure scheduled for next month for a range of American industrial and agricultural products including sugar, beef, eggs, chicken, peanut butter, and bourbon.

As a result of President Trump’s proposed tariffs, American consumers will likely face higher costs for various goods imported from Mexico, like tomatoes, strawberries, avocados, limes, mangos, and different varieties of tequila and beer. Additionally, several farm items obtained from Canada may experience similar increases; this includes fertilizers, chocolate, canola oil, maple syrup, and pork. Indirectly affecting food prices might be new taxes imposed on potash—a crucial component in making fertilizers—and steel utilized in farming equipment manufactured in Canada. These product categories, which encompass ingredients sensitive to climate changes—such as avocados, vegetable oils, cocoa, and mangoes—are already witnessing escalating expenses partly due to global warming trends.

Despite the numerous queries about Trump's tariff policies, James Sayre, an agricultural economist from the University of California, Davis, noted that the present ambiguity in global trade will result in increased expenses for shoppers at the grocery store.

All of this unpredictability is extremely detrimental to companies looking to bring in goods from overseas, set up new supply chains internationally, or make significant investments," stated Sayre. "This level of ambiguity alone could lead to higher costs for shoppers and diminish variety on grocery store shelves... potentially even more so than the impact of tariffs.

Throughout this period, climate change has been driving up food prices, causing American consumers to bear the cost of a warmer planet along with the ripple effects from government policies. apparently determined to disrupt international trade relationships .

It’s somewhat challenging to predict what the present administration might bring, considering the impact of food price increases due to tariffs and trade policies," noted Lee. "Additionally, we’re facing disruptions caused by weather events affecting our supply chains. Let’s hope these distinct challenges won’t combine unexpectedly.

The article initially appeared in Grist at https://grist.org/food-and-agriculture/what-trumps-escalating-trade-wars-mean-for-your-grocery-bill/ .

Grist is an independent nonprofit media entity focused on sharing narratives about environmental solutions and fostering a fairer tomorrow. Find out more at Grist.org

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・ "Public anger is rising": US goods "are less welcomed by" other nations as Europeans participate in the boycott

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6 Safest Neighborhoods in Queens, NY: Your Guide to Secure Living

One of New York City’s five boroughs, Queens provides a lively and varied environment featuring a blend of residential zones, business hubs, and parks. When moving to a new location, safety typically ranks as the foremost concern. Therefore, what are some safe neighborhoods within Queens that boast excellent facilities along with a strong sense of community?

The biggest and most rapidly expanding borough of New York City is Queens. Its local economy primarily relies on tourism (as both LaGuardia and JFK airports are located within the area), along with arts and entertainment—a sector that had been struggling in New York previously.

Safest neighborhoods in Queens to live.

If you're considering moving to Queens, New York City, and want to find the area with the lowest crime rates and friendly communities, then this piece will provide all the necessary information about the top safe neighborhoods in Queens.

The compilation of the safest areas to reside in within Queens has been gathered from sources such as Area Vibes and Metropolis Moving.

Neighbourhood	Estimated crime rate per 100,000 inhabitants
Bellerose	302
Bayside	1065
Auburndale	1434
Forest Hills	1613
Laurelton	1656
Kew Gardens Hills	1734

1. Bellerose

In Eastern Queens, Bellerose boasts a serene suburban environment characterized by tranquil residential streets. Predominantly housing-oriented, this district features an assortment of small apartment complexes alongside standalone family dwellings. Its bustling commercial hub lies along Jamaica Avenue, offering a plethora of exceptional eateries, coffee houses, and retail outlets.

It's conveniently situated near significant transportation centers such as the Long Island Rail Road and multiple key highways, allowing for simple travel to various sections of Manhattan and Queens.

What section of Queens is considered the most secure? Bellerose undeniably stands out as the safest area within Queens. It has an estimated annual total crime rate of 302 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants.

2. Bayside

Bayside is an upper-middle-class area located in northeastern Queens. It is regarded as one of the wealthiest and priciest neighborhoods within New York City.

The standalone suburban-style houses in this neighborhood evoke a feel akin to other affluent areas of Queens like Douglaston and Little Neck. According to estimates, Bayside has a reported crime rate of approximately 1,065 incidents for every 100,000 inhabitants.

3. Auburndale

Located in the northeast section of Queens, Auburndale is an attractive upper-middle-class neighborhood. Despite having a suburban feel, it stays near the bustling energy of the city.

Families have a particular fondness for Auburndale due to its top-notch public schools and amenities like Kissena Park. It’s regarded as one of the most secure neighborhoods in Queens, with an approximate yearly crime rate of 1,434 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants.

4. Forest Hills

Located within the boundaries of ZIP Code 11375, Forest Hills falls under Queens Community District 6. This area mainly serves as a residential neighborhood situated centrally in Queens, New York. Characterized by rows of tulip trees and Tudor-style homes, Forest Hills offers residents a secure, tranquil, and peaceful setting.

The area includes the Forest Hills Stadium, which hosts various events and concerts during the summertime. Numerous parks in close proximity cater to those who enjoy nature as well as families with small kids. The yearly estimated total crime rate in Forest Hills amounts to approximately 1,613 incidents per every 100,000 inhabitants.

5. Laurelton

Primarily inhabited by the middle class, Laurelton is a neighborhood that was once part of the old town of Jamaica. To its east lies Rosedale, to the north is Cambria Heights, and it borders Springfield Gardens to both the west and south. This area is mainly home to African Americans who have fostered a vibrant culture and boast a deep-rooted heritage.

Laurelton features tree-shaded avenues, nicely kept homes, and a close-knit community atmosphere. The area includes various parks like Brookville Park, which is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. According to estimates, the crime rate in Laurelton stands at approximately 1,656 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants.

6. Kew Gardens Hills

Kew Gardens Hills, a well-liked neighborhood in Queens, is situated close to multiple expressways such as the Van Wyck Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Long Island Expressway, and Jackie Robinson Parkway.

Kew Gardens Hills ranks among the top spots to reside in New York due to its vibrant urban atmosphere, where property ownership is common amongst locals. Educational institutions here surpass typical standards, and the area boasts numerous dining options, upscale venues, cafes, and green spaces. Statistically, Queens sees approximately 1,734 crimes annually for every 100,000 inhabitants based on estimates.

Is Queens, New York, considered safe?

Based on NYPD statistics, Queens has seen a decline in serious offenses over recent years. The total crime rate in Queens is below that of many other large cities, which makes it one of the more secure boroughs within New York City. Nonetheless, as with all big city regions, crime levels differ across various neighborhoods.

Wrapping up

Have you identified the most secure neighborhood in Queens? Regardless of whether you're looking for a family-oriented area, an energetic cultural center, or a peaceful suburban retreat, Queens provides a wide array of safe neighborhoods tailored to different preferences. Keep in mind that safety ratings in Queens, New York, may vary, so remaining updated and taking basic precautions is crucial irrespective of which location you pick.

.co.ke has published an article highlighting the most problematic neighborhoods in New York. Despite being a lively urban center full of energy, certain parts of New York require significant attention when it comes to security issues.

Regardless of whether you intend to reside in NYC permanently or just visit as a tourist, exploring unknown areas can feel overwhelming. This piece provides insights into the New York City neighborhoods that frequently top the charts when it comes to crime rates. Check it out for additional information.

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The Real Price Tag of Building a Home in Today’s Market

It’s widely acknowledged that homes aren’t inexpensive. For numerous individuals, choosing to construct a new house ranks among the biggest monetary choices they will ever face. Starting fresh with construction allows for personalization according to individual preferences, yet this option carries substantial costs.

Recently, the National Association of Home Builders unveiled findings from a poll conducted among 4,000 homebuilders. This detailed breakdown reveals the cost associated with every phase of constructing a new residence in 2024. Construction expenses accounted for approximately 64% of the total price tag of these newly constructed homes, which averaged around $428,215 apiece. The remaining portion of the final sale price encompasses various expenditures including overheads, general fees, as well as additional factors such as financing charges, promotional spending, and real estate commissions.

Therefore, what does the figure of $428,215 encompass? In this section, we will dissect the typical costs associated with constructing a home by breaking down each element. We'll explore the key phases involved in new construction and understand how these various components collectively add up to the total expense of building a house.

Site Work

Before a house exists, there must first be a plot of land. In 2024, operations related to preparing the building site accounted for an average contribution. $32,719 The expense associated with constructing a new house includes various aspects involved in readying a location for development, ranging from expenses related to engineering and architectural designs to obtaining permits for construction. This preparatory phase isn't concluded once actual building begins; further assessments are necessary during different stages of the construction. Nonetheless, this initial groundwork constitutes only about 7.6% of the total expenditure in the creation of a new dwelling.

Foundation and Framing

The foundation and framing provide the structure and groundwork for a house, so it’s crucial to ensure these elements are executed perfectly. According to the NAHB, the typical cost for framing a house averages out to be $70,982 In 2024, foundations were more affordable, typically costing around $44,748 According to the new house data, combining the costs for laying the foundation and constructing the framework accounted for more than 25% of the overall expenses in homebuilding.

Major System Rough-Ins

Certainly, a house goes beyond being merely a concrete foundation and a timber structure. In today’s homes, three primary systems are essential: plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. These components each have similar costs in 2024, typically amounting to roughly the same figure on average. $27,ooo . Altogether, the upfront expenses for setting up these systems were $82,319 —and that doesn’t include any appliances or fixtures.

Interior and Exterior Finishes

So, you have a house complete with its foundation, structure, and key systems... what remains is to wrap up the project. In 2024, completing the exterior proved to be relatively budget-friendly during new home construction, typically costing around $57,510 For projects involving external wall surfaces as well as the fitting of windows and doors.

The interior finishes turned out to be the priciest segment in the study. This is logical since numerous elements of building projects are classified under "interior finishes." Things like insulation, drywall installation, painting, cabinetry, appliances, and much more collectively averaged out to a significant expense. $103,391. That amounts to roughly a quarter of the total expense for constructing a new house, with this entire amount being allocated to a single phase of the build process. The cabinets represented the priciest component of the internal finishing, typically costing around $20,000 per new home.

Last Stages of Building and Additional Costs

Following all those stages, we reach the last phases of building. This phase can be described as adding the finishing details which include tasks such as laying down the driveway, constructing porches and patios, along with overall clean-up at the location. Fortunately, this concluding part turned out to be the most budget-friendly segment on an average basis, amounting to $27,710 Per new home, the NAHB additionally added a concluding "Other" category in the survey that encompassed $8,835 In expenses that couldn't be directly linked back to the other categories.

Total Sales Price Breakdown

So that’s where the $428,215 In new home constructions, the costs originate primarily from those factors. However, this accounts for roughly two-thirds of the overall sales price. When additional expenses such as financing, marketing, and an 11% profit margin for the constructing company are factored in, the typical total sales price of a newly built home in 2024 amounted to. $665,298 If you're considering constructing a house from scratch, ensure you account for all the expenses involved before embarking on your quest to build your ideal home.

Source:

NAHB, “ Expense of Building a House - 2024 ” (2024)

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Should Wyoming Be Your Retirement Haven?

If you're thinking of relocating for retirement , you might be considering Florida or Arizona And you might not be considering Wyoming. However, it’s worth giving some thought to, as it boasts many attractions.

We can begin with its stunning natural scenery. For one thing, it boasts the Grand Teton National Park. People fond of hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, or skiing will find plenty to do. Additionally, the region has a notably low crime rate.

Learn More: Grab up to $845 in cashback this year simply by altering your payment method at Costco! Learn more here.

Wyoming has been ranked as the 10th best state for retirees by Bankrate.com, excelling in terms of affordability but lagging behind when it comes to weather conditions. Winter in Wyoming often brings severe snowfall and extremely frigid temperatures. According to the World Population Review, the state’s general cost of living stands at approximately 93 percent of the nationwide average, with housing expenses being notably lower than most places. typical home price In Wyoming, the recent price was $348,066 -- nearly matching the national average -- although significantly more affordable housing options may be available based on the specific area within the state. Car insurance Meanwhile, it averages $2,393 per year, approximately $624 less than the average.

Wyoming performs admirably regarding taxation. The state does not impose an income tax, and additionally, it lacks a state tax altogether. estate tax , either.

Senior citizens, understandably, tend to be very concerned about healthcare , and Wyoming performs moderately without standing out significantly in this aspect, ranking as the 29th best state in the country for elderly healthcare according to MedicareGuide.com.

Keep in mind that Wyoming is home to abundant wildlife, yet has relatively few inhabitants. Should the constant activity of large urban centers be more your style, consider looking for alternatives. The state boasts extensive rural regions along with several smaller towns—however, compared to other states, it offers fewer opportunities for cultural experiences like visiting museums, attending theaters, or exploring art galleries.

It's wise to dedicate at least several months to living in any place you're considering, ensuring it suits your lifestyle well. your overall retirement plan .

The $ 22,924 The Social Security benefit many seniors fail to notice.

If you’re similar to many Americans, you might be lagging several years—or even more—behind on your retirement savings. However, some lesser-known “ Social Security tips” may assist in increasing your retirement earnings. For instance: one simple strategy could earn you an additional $ 22,924 More every year! After mastering strategies to optimize your Social Security benefits, we believe you can retire with confidence and achieve the peace of mind everyone seeks. Just click here to find out how you can gain deeper insights into these tactics.

Check out the "Social Security secrets" »

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .

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I Searched for 3 Years to Find the Ideal City for Remote Work—Here’s What I Discovered

The summer had come to an end again, and I found myself right back at square one as I did three years earlier. Over these past few years, my quest continued in finding us a new place to live, carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages across roughly forty different urban areas amidst soaring property values nationwide. My inspiration was all but depleted. Once upon a time, this freedom felt more like a gift—I could select the location where I wished to reside — now seemed like a weight. Still, I couldn't surrender.

Similar to many adults, my place of residence was invariably linked to my workplace. Our initial apartment post-college was situated in the city where my spouse fortuitously found employment. For our subsequent move, it was another job opportunity that dictated the new location. That’s just how things went for us.

Then we both started working remote Five years back, everything shifted. Suddenly, it felt as though the gates of possibility had swung wide open. We were granted our wish to reside anywhere within our borders—any metropolis at our disposal—but now came the daunting task: deciding which one would be home.

Thus commenced a lengthy hunt for a place to reside—an excruciatingly difficult yet cheerfully hopeful journey in search of more than merely any metropolis, but specifically the ideal one. perfect city.

I can't be the only one who is fascinated by this. People searching for " top city in the U.S. have increased threefold over the last half-decade, coinciding with the increase in individuals telecommuting Furthermore, numerous yearly "best places to reside" rankings circulate online. Livability , Money , Niche and Rocket Homes Each recommends the top cities to call home, backed by reassuring data-driven analysis that I didn’t delve deeply into, choosing instead to browse through the enticing listicles filled with an impressive range of options. Covington, Kentucky. Boulder, Colorado. Madison, Wisconsin. They also offer tailored lists specifically designed for families (ask Fortune and recent graduates ( Forbes I went through all of them with Type A zeal, convinced that the solution to my geographical conundrum was just a click away.

Ultimately, my desires were quite modest. All I sought was an affordable cost of living, a wide array of options, pleasant climate conditions, minimal criminal activity, numerous green spaces and cycling paths, robust employment prospects, enriching cultural experiences, and straightforward ways to travel to neighboring towns and nations. Quite logical really.

However, for three years, I didn't come across anything better than my current situation. We were stationed in Tampa, which frequently appears on various "top cities" rankings as part of a metropolitan area. Whenever someone questioned my desire to relocate, I found myself struggling to articulate my reasons. Yet, each moment I gazed out my living room window at those sun-baked palm trees devoid of foliage, it felt akin to residing within a faded snapshot from last year's summer getaway.

I could readily share with you numerous reasons why Tampa stands out as a fantastic place to reside. It boasts a lively culinary and art culture, lacks snowy winters, and imposes no state income tax. Disney World And beaches that won awards were essentially right outside your door. Everything seemed ideal, yet it still didn’t feel like home. Similar to being with someone who is intelligent and humorous and kind and all that, but just doesn’t seem quite right for you.

Every year, I vowed that this was going to be the year when we finally relocated. Every year, I extended our lease, reaffirming my commitment to finding the perfect place. I explored cities in Washington known for excellent hiking opportunities, yet found them beyond our financial reach. I also mulled over several locations in Indiana and Ohio due to their affordable lifestyles, but eventually dismissed the whole Midwest area—no offense to those who live there—as being too isolated for what we wanted.
We took trips twice to Tennessee and once to Georgia, went so far as flying into Oklahoma City, and made sure to visit each significant urban center in Florida with more than one hundred thousand inhabitants. None seemed right. At some point, I even thought about hiring a life coach to guide us through this decision-making process; however, the $6,000 fee proposed during a Zoom consultation almost sent me tumbling from my kitchen stool.

Last November, on a spontaneous impulse, we embarked on a short trip to Raleigh, North Carolina over a weekend. My objective was to pen down an article about attractions and activities around the city. The fall foliage reached its pinnacle during our visit—vivid shades of reds and golds that were uncommon where I lived, adding splashes of color across the parks and trails. During our exploration, we indulged in meals made from locally-sourced ingredients and strolled through the mild chill of early autumn, which hinted at the comfort only sweaters can provide. It felt like coming home; somehow, I sensed this would be my place. Consequently, we relocated to Raleigh earlier this year.

We adore it. Raleigh is the perfect fit for an American city, as described by a local with this apt phrase. It's neither overly large nor too compact. The climate is not excessively warm or chilly. Positioned midway between the mountains and the sea. Forward-thinking and varied, yet encircled by quaint villages and expansive fields. Naturally, every place has drawbacks—such as intense summertime moisture, tax rates surpassing those found in Florida, and personally, I wish those mountain cascades were within easier reach. However, when considering everything collectively, much like the storybook ending, it hits just the right spot.

I'd prefer to attribute our success to meticulous analysis. Of course, I did review the statistics: housing costs, mean temperatures, crime rates, along with the count of accessible international locations. direct flights from the Raleigh-Durham airport (nine, if you're curious). And indeed, Raleigh ranks sixth in the newly published list. Best Places to Live from U.S. News & World Report — third last year While I was still looking.

However, it isn’t about that. The thing I sought could never be quantified in a spreadsheet. It remains evasive but surprisingly concrete. Picture vast swaths of sunflowers under the summertime sky, a university known for crafting its own delectable ice creams, and the sight of browsing horses as you make your way along the road—despite being just fifteen minutes away from the city center. Imagine bidding farewell to those persistent palms and embracing instead the expansive shade cast by ancient oak trees, which earned this capital city its subtle moniker: the City of Oaks.

Maybe it isn’t flawless. But it’s exactly what we need at this moment, and that’s sufficient.

The article was initially published on

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Is a Costco Membership Truly Worth the Investment?

In Canada, Costco caters to over 10 million members through approximately 100 warehouse locations. The country holds a special affection for Costco; notably, it boasts almost twice as many stores per person compared to the United States, with Canadian outlets proving more lucrative when considering total operational earnings. A significant number of loyal Canadian Costco customers frequently visit these locations and often feel strongly committed after purchasing their memberships.

Let's delve into what being a Costco member entails and examine the benefits offered at each membership level. Is the expense of a Costco membership justified based on how you live? Does the price tag match up with the advantages you'll get? We're going to uncover this soon.

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What is the process for obtaining and using a Costco membership?

Costco memberships can be utilized at any store worldwide, irrespective of your home country. To qualify for a membership, you need to satisfy these requirements:

• 18+ years old
• Reside in a home where nobody presently holds a Costco membership
• Possess a legally valid Canadian identification document or any paper that verifies your identity.

Comparing Costco membership tiers

Should you qualify for membership, you can select among three distinct levels, all offering particular benefits along with exclusive pricing structures. Below is a concise overview of every Costco membership category:

Gold Star

A Gold Star Costco Membership comes with up to two household cards ($65 CAD), which can be renewed yearly. It’s the simplest tier among the trio and lets you buy items from any Costco store.

If you like buying things in large quantities or want to get everything done with just one visit for all your household needs—from food staples to electronic gadgets—a Gold Star Costco membership could be an excellent choice for you and would probably justify the yearly fee.

Business

A Costco Business membership enables you to buy items for personal use, resell, or business purposes from any Costco outlet. Similar to the Gold Star membership, this option also has an annual charge of $65 CAD yet comes with additional benefits, including:

• A free household card
• Capability to include additional affiliate cardholders at a cost of $65 each.
• Purchase for resale

Under this plan, members are required to supply Costco with the necessary resale details to utilize the purchase-for-resale benefit.

Regardless of whether you operate your own enterprise or work as a purchaser for an extensive organization, a Costco Business membership might be beneficial if you often acquire multiple products in large quantities for your business operations or consistently buy goods with the intention of reselling them.

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• Unforeseen medical expenses can accumulate rapidly, even within Canada’s healthcare framework. cost-effective health coverage to safeguard you and those dear to you

Executive

Ultimately, the Executive Membership represents the top level of Costco’s membership options and comes with an annual cost of $130 CAD. This price encompasses both the basic $65 membership fee along with a $65 enhancement fee, offering you access to:

• A free household card
• Each year, you'll receive a 2% reward on eligible Costco buys (please check terms and conditions).
• Extra advantages and increased savings on Costco services (such as dental plans, identity theft protection, business health insurance, and more).
• Additional perks with Costco Travel offerings

Among the three Costco membership levels, the Executive tier offers the greatest advantages. However, it's crucial to assess if the $130 yearly membership cost justifies the value it adds based on your individual requirements or business needs prior to signing up.

Other Costco membership perks

Did you know that Costco offers services beyond just purchasing items in large quantities?

Costco provides various exclusive benefits and services to their members, including car insurance, home insurance, identity theft protection, home loans, personal checks, self-storage facilities, as well as business and individual health insurance plans. Additionally, they offer comprehensive travel-related services. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, Costco has you covered with payroll and payment solutions. Don’t miss these other valuable offerings available at Costco:

• Costco online shopping Costco provides an online shopping experience akin to those offered by numerous other e-commerce platforms. To browse and purchase from their extensive range of products and services, you need to create an account. Once registered, your Costco membership will be connected to your new online profile.
• Costco Travel: If planning your upcoming cruise, vacation, or car rental, Costco’s range of travel booking services could be just what you need. Despite its strong track record, it's wise to explore other options for comparative pricing to ensure you get the best deal possible.
• Costco Gasoline: Many Costco outlets offer fuel at prices typically 6 or 7 cents cheaper per litre compared to major gas stations. For those who fill up regularly, this savings could justify the price of your Costco membership.
• Costco Pharmacy: Many Costco outlets feature a comprehensive pharmacy that provides an extensive range of health-related items and services. Costco members across all regions except for Prince Edward Island and Quebec can place prescription orders online and get them shipped directly to their residence.
• Costco Optical: Many Costco stores also have an optical section. You aren't required to get your eyes checked at a Costco outlet to purchase eyeglasses or contact lenses.
• Costco credit card: The warehouses of Costco only accept credit cards with the Mastercard logo. Costco members have access to the CIBC Costco Mastercard without an annual fee. This card provides up to 3% cashback on qualifying transactions.

Although Costco offers an impressively wide range of services, a membership would be worthwhile primarily if you can afford to purchase items in large quantities. We'll delve into whether a Costco membership generally yields a satisfying return on investment for your typical shopper.

Is it worthwhile to get a membership at Costco?

If Costco often serves as your go-to destination for groceries, household items, technology, and business supplies, then opting for a Costco Gold Star or Business membership would make perfect sense. Essentially, if you have a preference for purchasing in large quantities yet remain uncertain about reaching the spending threshold needed to justify an Executive membership, we strongly recommend choosing either a Gold Star or Business membership instead.

Clearly, the primary benefit of a Costco Executive membership lies in the 2% cashback reward; nevertheless, this cashback becomes advantageous solely if you naturally Spend sufficiently to get a worthwhile return. There’s no need to struggle by increasing your spending while shopping merely to justify the cost of an Executive membership.

Products that can recoup your cost of a Costco membership

If you're still unsure about whether a Costco membership offers good value, consider utilizing those items that could essentially offset the cost of your membership. They might encompass things like:

• Tires: It’s possible you're overpaying for tires when purchasing them outside of Costco. The pricing on tires within the Costco warehouse club is quite advantageous. By choosing to buy from Costco, you could save as much as $80 on specific tire models, potentially offsetting the cost of your Costco membership effortlessly.
• Guarantees: Costco’s satisfaction assurance makes shopping at their warehouses even more appealing, potentially covering the expense of your membership fee entirely. Should you find yourself unhappy with your Costco membership, they will provide a complete reimbursement.
• Gas : Refueling at Costco gas stations will assist you. save money on gas Visiting one of its gas stations several times each month could accumulate sufficient savings to cover your Costco membership fee.
• Wine: Your typical savings when purchasing wine from Costco would amount to roughly $5 per bottle. Buying a dozen bottles each month could cover the cost of your Costco membership fee all by itself.
• Movie tickets: Costco might offer you two movie tickets for almost half the price compared to buying them directly at the theater. For those who frequently enjoy watching movies, these savings can accumulate to more than cover the cost of your membership fee.

Enjoy additional perks with the CIBC Costco Mastercard

Curious about extra perks available? The CIBC Costco Mastercard, designed specifically for Costco members, offers added bonuses. Regardless of whether you're a Gold Star, Business, or Executive member, this card allows you to earn rewards not just on Costco buys but also elsewhere. You'll get 3% cashback on dining establishments and Costco fuel, 2% cashback at other service stations, EV chargers, and Costco’s online store, plus 1% on all remaining purchases made both inside and outside Costco.

If you're not interested in the CIBC Costco Mastercard, there are several other excellent alternatives available. Credit cards that work best for shopping at Costco .

Possible return on spending

To figure out if a Costco membership offers good value for the yearly cost, we'll have to assess how much money you could save. For a clearer picture of your potential savings, consider this estimated return on investment: one year As a board member utilizing the CIBC Costco Mastercard:

• $4,200 CAD = Number of trips to Costco $84 annual cash back)
• $3,500 CAD = dining establishments/food venues ( $105 annual cash back)
• $2,100 CAD = fuel $42 annual cash back)
• $8,800 CAD = various items ( $58 annual cash back once you've spent $3,000)

These yearly forecasts mirror the typical Canadian's expenditure patterns across various categories. Simply put, an Executive tier membership is worth it if you’re spending a minimum of $3,000 annually on Costco visits.

What truly matters most is what's best for you.

In the end, it's crucial to take some time and determine your yearly expenses prior to getting a Costco membership, particularly one of the higher tiers such as the Executive membership. Should your estimates indicate that you'll probably reach the threshold needed to justify the annual costs and you often purchase items in large quantities, then a Costco membership might turn into a smart financial choice for you.

If you're a fan of Costco and trust its business model, it might be worthwhile to consider investing. buy Costco stock Its payouts could cover your membership fees.

This article Is a Costco membership truly justified? Canadians desire stores to simplify purchasing domestically produced goods. originally appeared on Money.ca

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The content of this article serves solely as information and must not be interpreted as professional advice. No warranties of any sort are offered with this material.

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