Today is our first full day scoping out South Walton in Florida. Looking around to see if it's got retirement potential - uh, I still have at least 7 years to go. Maybe more if the job is good to me.
A year ago we came down to Florida \ Alabama way just for a road trip. Then, specifically to see Fairhope, Alabama. I was pleasantly surprised. Not as backwoods as I imagined. Then we just wandered to the gulf in Florida. Mexico Beach. Ugh what a dump. I suggested we go back along the coast to an area I passed through years ago. Highway 30A. It's a string of very nice communities. My wife immediately fell in love with the area. Many people do. It's nice.
So much, we are back to see if it would be appealing to stay, not just visit.
Layout all the pros and cons.
Within the first 12 hours we've already met several folks that were incredibly kind and friendly. Telling us all the the ins and outs of the area.
By the people alone, I love it. Practicality? Financially? And a number of other factors come into play. I know a week is only scratching the surface. But, it's a start.