An almost primitive connection draws people to water_to the lakes, rivers and oceans. Maybe part of that reason is that, biologically speaking, human beings are about 70 percent water. Aesthetically speaking, however, who can resist the calming effect of watching the gentle ripples lap at the shore. The power of water to wash away concerns [...]

On April 20th, an explosion left BP’s offshore rig gushing oil until it was capped on July 15th. The resulting spill has dominated headlines. However, environmentally and economically, Southwest Florida (SWFL) has not been affected. It has had no oil on its beaches, and there is no indication that any will go ashore. The National [...]

Summer is winding down, the cooler air is coming in, and soon there will be the burdens of tax bills, old man winter keeping you inside and another year gone by wondering when you’ll be able to escape it all and head south for that ideal retirement or second home spot.
If you’ve never been to [...]

I do not consider myself the adventurous type. Quite honestly, going to the movies qualifies as a risky venture for me. So how in heaven’s name could I ever have found myself in three different countries in three consecutive days and poised to walk across mountain, meseta (plateau in Spain) and countryside to a destination [...]

Visions of sun-drenched white-sand beaches permeate thoughts of Florida. Millions flock to Florida each year for vacation or retirement. So many, in fact, that it has changed the perception of Florida into a concrete jungle with congested freeways and beaches. However, you can still experience the Florida of yesteryear in Florida’s “Nature Coast.”
In 1867, World [...]

With its ribbons of sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, translucent warm waters, and coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, Saint Lucia (pronounced LOO-sha) is a quintessential Caribbean paradise. It has evolved over the years into one of the region’s most popular vacation destinations—particularly for romantics enticed by the island’s striking natural beauty, splendid resorts and [...]

What could be more enjoyable than spending a cold winter evening planning and then looking forward to a spring road trip along some of the scenic highways of America? Gas prices are down, hotel prices are lower than ever, and everyone needs a break from the rigors of winter. Just pack the car and head [...]

With over 1,200 miles of sand beaches, year-round activities and one of the lowest tax burdens in the country, it’s easy to see why Florida consistently ranks in the top three states in which to retire. Winters are mild, with average high temperatures ranging from 66oF in the northern region to a balmy 76oF in [...]

The areas in and around eastern Tennessee have some of the most beautiful scenery in all of the United States, with mountains to both the east and the west. Four distinctive seasons and a mild year-round climate make the area ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Things to See and Do
Eastern Tennessee is home to the nation’s most [...]

Dream… Explore… Discover…
Ideal Living magazine invites you to discover our readers’ top places to retire.
In consideration of the 77 million baby boomers who will retire in the next 20 years, Ideal Living magazine has compiled our list of Top Places to Retire based on reader surveys. From the coast to the mountains, and the low [...]

Just an hour east of Atlanta lies a rugged yet majestic area nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains. The Georgia Lake Country and North Georgia Mountains areas are an outdoor retreat, with their foothills and mountains serving as the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains and the birthplace of the Chattahoochee [...]

Founded as a winter retreat for wealthy Northerners, today, Aiken is frequently described as a city with Southern charm and a cosmopolitan flair. This laid-back, charming community located near the mid-point of South Carolina’s long border with Georgia offers great golfing, hunting and fishing, and has received national acclaim in several prestigious magazines.
Located not far [...]

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, NC, has often been called ‘the Paris of the Southeast,’ and has long been a favorite retirement destination. Whether you’re seeking beautiful mountain scenery, contemporary art galleries, fine organic cuisine or outdoor adventures, you’ll find it all in Asheville. With its friendly people and eclectic mix of things [...]

Imagine a place with shaded maritime forests, crystalline ocean waters, winding inlets and scenic marshes, coupled with incredible restaurants featuring fresh-from-the-coast seafood, unique shops and boutiques, unparalleled diving, innumerable golf courses and a host of recreational activities. You’ve just pictured the beautiful coasts of North and South Carolina. Whether you’re looking to retire near the [...]

Green homes hit mainstream–Make sure you know what you’re buying
Ten years ago, environmentally and energy conscious home buyers had a tough time finding ‘green’ homes. Even though models were out there, builders and real estate agents had no idea how to market them and sometimes didn’t even know their benefits versus a conventionally-built residence. Things [...]