SWAPCAST: Lisa Andrews from This Travel Tribe

Embracing Change and Chasing Dreams: How One Empty Nester Couple Sold Everything to Find Their Perfect Hometown

When Denise and James Gordon's last child left for college, they found themselves at a crossroads. As empty nesters living in Los Angeles, they knew they wanted a change of pace, a new adventure, and a more affordable place to call home. Rather than settling for a traditional retirement, they made the bold decision to sell everything, pack up their dog, and hit the road in search of their perfect hometown.

As hosts of the Skip Town All Stars podcast, Denise and James have been documenting their journey, sharing the ups and downs of full-time travel, and offering inspiration to others who may be considering a similar lifestyle change. In a recent episode of the This Travel Tribe podcast, they shared their story, their favorite destinations, and the lessons they've learned along the way.

One of the biggest challenges the couple faced was downsizing their belongings. After years of living in the same house, they had accumulated a lifetime's worth of possessions. However, they knew that to truly embrace this new chapter, they needed to let go of the past. They held yard sales, donated items, and ultimately sold nearly everything they owned, keeping only a few sentimental items and practical necessities.

With their belongings sorted, they set out on the road, renting a van and later purchasing a Subaru Outback to serve as their trusty steed. They quickly learned the importance of having a home base, a place to recharge and regroup between adventures. Fortunately, they had purchased an income property in Florida prior to their journey, which now serves as their part-time residence when they're not exploring new cities.

One of the most rewarding aspects of their journey has been the opportunity to live like locals in each new destination. Rather than simply passing through as tourists, Denise and James make a point to stay in each city for several weeks or even a month, renting Airbnbs and immersing themselves in the local culture. They've discovered hidden gems, forged new friendships, and gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity of American cities.

Of course, traveling full-time as a couple is not without its challenges. Denise and James have had to learn to be patient with each other, to communicate openly, and to find a balance between work and play. They've established rules, like limiting their driving time to no more than six hours per day and always breaking for lunch at local restaurants, to ensure that their travels remain enjoyable for both of them.

Throughout their journey, Denise and James have fallen in love with countless cities, each offering its own unique charm and potential for a new hometown. Some of their top contenders include Salt Lake City, with its vibrant culture and outdoor recreation; Savannah, Georgia, with its rich history and Southern hospitality; and Covington, Kentucky, with its affordable housing and proximity to Cincinnati.

However, they've also learned that sometimes the places they least expect can steal their hearts. They've discovered hidden treasures like Bernie, Texas, a small town they had never heard of before but now hold dear. They've also realized that a city they once romanticized may not live up to their expectations upon closer inspection.

For Denise and James, the true value of their journey lies not in the destination, but in the memories they've made and the personal growth they've experienced along the way. They've learned to embrace change, to trust their instincts, and to find joy in the unexpected. They've discovered that home is not a place, but a feeling, and that happiness can be found in the most unlikely of places.

As they continue their search for the perfect hometown, Denise and James offer advice to others who may be considering a similar lifestyle change. They encourage would-be travelers to start small, to take a long weekend trip with their partner before selling everything, and to be honest about their expectations and needs. They also stress the importance of being open to new experiences, of being willing to step outside one's comfort zone, and of embracing the journey as much as the destination.

For empty nesters, retirees, and anyone else dreaming of a fresh start, Denise and James' story is a testament to the power of embracing change and chasing one's dreams. It's a reminder that it's never too late to start a new chapter, to explore new horizons, and to create a life that truly aligns with one's values and desires. And while the road may be long and the destination uncertain, the rewards of a life well-traveled are immeasurable.

10 Fun Facts about travel trends in 2024:

1. Sustainable travel continues to gain popularity, with more travelers seeking eco-friendly accommodations and low-impact activities.

2. Multigenerational travel is on the rise, as families prioritize spending quality time together and creating lasting memories.

3. Wellness travel is expanding beyond traditional spa retreats, with a focus on mental health, digital detoxes, and immersive nature experiences.

4. Bleisure travel, combining business trips with leisure activities, is becoming more common as remote work continues to be prevalent.

5. Slow travel is gaining traction, with travelers opting for longer stays in one destination to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.

6. Second city travel is growing, as travelers seek out lesser-known destinations to avoid crowds and discover hidden gems.

7. Contactless technology, such as mobile check-in and digital room keys, is becoming the norm in the travel industry.

8. Workcations, extended stays that combine work and leisure, are becoming more popular among remote workers seeking a change of scenery.

9. Solo travel is on the rise, with more people embracing the freedom and self-discovery that comes with exploring the world alone.

10. Space tourism is expected to take off, with several companies planning to launch commercial space flights for adventurous travelers.

10 most traveled cities in the world:

1. Bangkok, Thailand

2. Paris, France

3. London, United Kingdom

4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

5. Singapore

6. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

7. New York City, United States

8. Istanbul, Turkey

9. Tokyo, Japan

10. Antalya, Turkey