The allure of traveling the world is a dream for many, yet for some, it becomes a living reality. In the transitional phase between active parenting and the joy of grandparenting, my partner and I made a bold decision: we chose to leave behind our life in Boston and embrace a path of exploration. This choice, which we call rotational living, opened up a new chapter filled with freedom, learning, and adventure, proving that it’s often cheaper and more rewarding to immerse oneself in diverse cultures rather than settle down in a single place.
Embracing Rotational Living
Our journey began at the start of 2025. As a couple in our late fifties and sixties, with our children now independent adults forging their own paths, we decided that now was the perfect time to embark on this adventure. In the past few months, we have spent time in incredible places like São Paulo, rural Vermont, and Montreal, with many more destinations planned for the coming year. This lifestyle allows us to experience traveling the world not just as visitors but as temporary residents, deeply integrating into each locale.
The beauty of rotational living lies in its flexibility. We enjoy the process of shifting from one vibrant city to another, welcoming new experiences as we go. For instance, a recent month and a half spent in Montreal enabled us to indulge in its rich culture and culinary delights, which we might have missed if we were simply tourists.
Financial Benefits of Traveling
Not only does traveling the world feed our souls, but it also benefits our wallets. Having previously spent an exorbitant amount on our Boston apartment, we found that embracing a lifestyle of exploration has significantly reduced our living expenses. Instead of sinking thousands into a permanent home, we now rent cozy apartments in Brazil or India for under $1,000 a month, allowing us to allocate funds towards enriching experiences instead. The financial freedom that comes with rotational living empowers us to prioritize what truly matters—time with loved ones, artistic inspiration, and cultural immersion.
- Living in Brazil offers affordable yet comfortable accommodations.
- Staying with friends in Europe helps cut costs while enriching our travel experiences.
As we travel, we frequently assess choices that align with both our financial goals and our desire for exploration. The limitations of a traditional home, such as maintenance costs and feeling tied to one location, have given way to opportunities for learning and growth.
Lessons Learned While Traveling
Through our journey, we’ve learned multiple lessons that have enriched our relationship and our outlook on life. First and foremost is the realization that you must truly enjoy being with your partner. Traveling the world together means adapting to each other’s quirks and preferences, whether it’s debating which café has the best espresso or navigating the occasional disagreement about travel routes.
Additionally, the unpredictability of this lifestyle can often be tiring. We’ve found solace in establishing a routine that combines early nights with sufficient downtime during the day. These intentional adjustments allow us to embrace uncertainty while reveling in the adventures that lie ahead.
A Future Built on Exploration
Despite the delightful chaos of rotational living, we still find moments to reflect on our blessings. The gap between parenting and grandparenting serves as a gift, as we eagerly anticipate taking on the role of dedicated babysitters in the future. For now, we’re focusing on the present—where to go next and what cultures to experience. We have our eyes set on traveling to places like Japan and Australia as we strive to forge connections in each new city.
Our journey has also helped us draw meaningful connections between traveling the world and our shared passions. For instance, we began a blog called “Breakfast: A Love Story,” sharing our culinary experiences as we encounter vibrant new food scenes. The connection between food, culture, and exploration comes alive when you’re constantly on the move.
Creating Lasting Memories
Traveling has brought us closer, allowing us to create lasting memories and retaining the spirit of adventure. Whether it’s through an intimate dinner with new friends or exploring hidden gems in unfamiliar cities, every moment is precious. Just as explored in our analysis of sending kids to grandparents, connection and family bonds remain significant—even as we navigate uncharted territory.
As we transition into this new stage of life, we remain grateful for the freedom that comes with it. We’re excited to document our experiences through our blog and social media, highlighting how traveling the world expands our understanding of what’s truly important—culture, connections, and the joy of living without borders. Join us as we navigate this exhilarating adventure together.
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