Looks like I'm really going to go for it: Pleeze tell me about livin' in Florida - Bilge

HH Hurricane Hayward Grand Member (1 year) 16 miles from The Mai-Kai Joined: Jun 07, 2008 Posts: 1867	HH Hurricane Hayward Posted posted on Mon, Jun 3, 2013 11:09 PM seafoamer, As a Florida resident of over 35 years, I would say do it, but make sure you're not expecting too much. Florida certainly offers low taxes, low cost of living (in some areas) and a laid-back lifestyle, but that comes at a price. Cultural opportunities may not be as widespread as up north and other services may be lacking. But if you have a DIY spirit, there's nothing stopping you from carving out your own niche. I'm a loyal east coaster and can confirm that the central part of the state, north of Vero Beach, may be your best place to start. Perhaps Cocoa or Daytona Beach. I'm down in South Florida (Fort Liquordale), which is a lot more urban and hectic. But we still have our little pockets of easy-going oases (including The Mai-Kai), plus more culture. Then there's the Keys, a wonderful and unique area but also not very budget-friendly and way off the beaten path. I'd start looking toward the central east coast. If it's too boring or lacking opportunities, you can always drift south. FYI, there's an active central Florida Tiki community in Brevard County. Look then up on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/91561746978/

seafoamer,

As a Florida resident of over 35 years, I would say do it, but make sure you're not expecting too much. Florida certainly offers low taxes, low cost of living (in some areas) and a laid-back lifestyle, but that comes at a price. Cultural opportunities may not be as widespread as up north and other services may be lacking. But if you have a DIY spirit, there's nothing stopping you from carving out your own niche.

I'm a loyal east coaster and can confirm that the central part of the state, north of Vero Beach, may be your best place to start. Perhaps Cocoa or Daytona Beach. I'm down in South Florida (Fort Liquordale), which is a lot more urban and hectic. But we still have our little pockets of easy-going oases (including The Mai-Kai), plus more culture. Then there's the Keys, a wonderful and unique area but also not very budget-friendly and way off the beaten path.

I'd start looking toward the central east coast. If it's too boring or lacking opportunities, you can always drift south.

FYI, there's an active central Florida Tiki community in Brevard County. Look then up on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/91561746978/

Post #680692 by Hurricane Hayward on Mon, Jun 3, 2013 11:09 PM