Unique opportunities await for the nontraditional retiree plan.
If you dread retirement because you fear boredom, consider some unique retirement alternatives that will allow you to pursue your passions.
Retirement Living Options for the Nature Lover
One way to enjoy your retirement — at least for part of the year — is to become a seasonal park ranger. Whether you want to live in Yellowstone, Yosemite, or Mount Rainier National Park, you can volunteer to be a ranger to manage camping/recreational vehicle sites. You could keep your home but live out of a luxury RV for a few months out of the year.
Retirement Living Options for the Sea Lover
Living on a ship for a few months at a time may not be for everyone. But the monthly cost can be similar to that of a full-service retirement community, and a cruise ship may offer more amenities. For example, a typical cruise includes dining choices, dancing, entertainment, daily housekeeping, and some medical services.
Retirement Living Options When You Need a Change of Scenery
If you’ve lived in the same house or city for most of your adult life, you may be ready to explore other parts of the world. The options are endless. The U.S. government does not track how many retirees live abroad and estimates vary from several hundred thousand to more than one million. However, a list compiled by International Living cites Panama as the best retirement location in 2016. Central and South American countries dominate the rest of the list for the top retirement locations outside of the U.S. for 2016.
Retirement Living Options for the Artist
Whether art has been your career or just a hobby, options exist to keep your creative juices flowing even after you retire. Several communities around the country support the artist lifestyle, where you can rent apartments and have full access to art studios, performance theaters, and clubhouses to socialize and network with fellow retired artists.
If You Still Want to Work
You might choose not to completely stop working. Opt for a part-time job doing something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the chance. Or you may find it rewarding to help others. Some volunteer organizations will pay your room and board when you commit to their volunteer program. These programs can take you anywhere in the country or the world.
Regardless of whether you look to a more traditional retirement plan or one of these unique options, it’s never too early to start creating your retirement roadmap.
