A Seattle couple has found a unique solution to the high cost of living and housing - they have chosen to live on cruise ships.
The couple, Angelyn and Richard Burk, have been traveling on various cruise ships for a year now and are finding it a more affordable option than paying a mortgage.
They live frugally and have been able to retire thanks to their membership in cruise line loyalty programs and taking advantage of sales.
Cruise Ship Retirement
As per Unilad, their life at sea began in May 2021, and according to their research, this unusual way of life is much easier on their pockets and bank accounts than paying down a mortgage.
Both Richard and Angelyn, who are in their fifties, discovered they could travel for the rest of their lives for as little as $43.92 per day. Seattle's average home cost is $913,416 as of the most recent Zillow index of home values.
The couple claims they spend an average of $43 per day for the two, which covers all of their costs, including lodging, meals, entertainment, travel, tips, port fees, and taxes.
Check out this news report by The Young Turks.
This is significantly less expensive than the average cost of living on land, which is around $89 USD per day. By taking advantage of the discounts provided by cruise lines through loyalty programs, they have been able to save money.
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The couple plans to spend most of their retirement on cruise ships, traveling to multiple countries, including Mexico, Costa Rica, Canada, Alaska, Japan, Indonesia, and Vietnam. They don't plan to return to living on dry land or working 9-to-5 jobs. Now that sounds like a plan.
Most Attractive Retirement Option
The all-inclusive services provided by cruise ships, such as food, medical treatment, cleaning, and laundry services, appeal to the couple as an attractive retirement option. These services are paid for out of their daily expenses, which makes it simpler for them to manage their money and take advantage of their retirement.
"When planning out cruises, I try to stay on the same ship as long as possible, as long as it is cost-effective," says Angelyn.
People on the Internet have noticed the couple's story, and many have expressed interest in their unusual way of life. The couple's experience demonstrates the value of using imagination and maintaining an open mind when looking for affordable and enjoyable retirement options.
A Booming Cruise Ship Industry
World cruise bookings are booming, according to Ralph Bias, president of Miami Beach-based Amazing Cruises, a luxury cruise booking agency that saw revenue and bookings more than double from 2020 to 2021 and nearly triple in 2022.
"2023 is set to be our most successful year yet, with World Cruises and Grand Voyages leading the way and accounting for roughly half of our revenue," Bias told CNN.
According to Bias, even if you are not planning a world cruise, booking back-to-back cruises that do not visit the same ports is possible.
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