[terrieb]

There are so many pros and cons in consideration when coming to the Villages and at what time of year. The Cons I will not mention except for one which is the growth of the population. By this being a con is the fact since we have been coming down here during December and then this year December and January, since 2006, we have noticed the growth mostly in construction of new homes and not necessarily the addition of many needed retail establishments around the newer Villages which means an overcrowding of already established stores. I think they do this while in their cars as well. Too many people for the amount of stores. If you are not used to being around lots and lots of people during certain times of the year, then the Villages is not for you. Over 100,000+ people at one time can be overwhelming and because of this, we have decided not to make the Villages our home. What good is the lifestyle if you are not able to participate in many of the events if you can't get to them or you have to spend a couple hours ahead of time in order to enjoy them. Being here in January for the first time has finally confirmed this, the Villages is not our cup of tea. Driving through the roundabouts at times is like going on a thrill ride at an amusement park. You really have to drive defensively not only through these areas but everywhere. I am not willing to spend the rest of my retirement for fear of getting in an accident down here. We have seen so many close calls down here. It is a remarkable establishment, that is the Villages and what the developer has done here. There is no other place that compares to what the Villages has to offer. It will definitely take quite a few visits to determine if it this place is what you want.