Friends who didn't like The Villages

[kit9240]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

[DougB]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Not possible.

[sjdjmd]

The only time I've ever heard this was when someone was close to their family "back home" and couldn't imagine living here.

[villagerjack]

NO!

[Mr. Grampi II]

Everybody we have ever brought here ended up buying a home here.....

[cquick]

We had some friends visit this winter.....4 different couples.
One couple is planning to buy, two couples were unimpressed by the lifestyle and the size of the area (and they don't know each other). The last couple were unsure, but they want to visit again.

[The Great Fumar]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Actually I did but as they are now in psychiatric care it doesn't seem worth mentioning........
As I remember they did like dogs too.

Fumar ( mr. warmth ),,,,,,,,, :ho:

[Bill-n-Brillo]

kit, I think you'll find some people who won't/don't like the physical size of TV - the place IS humongous compared to any other 55+ community. It's certainly not the place for everyone...............otherwise all of the other 55+ communities would be vacant! :D

Bill :)

[Dayzee]

Hubbie's ex-boss told him that he and his wife visited TV before purchasing their current Florida home and found it to be 'OVERLY CONGESTED'. We also have close friends who have told us they would never live in a place like TV. To each their own - but they just don't have a clue.

[ilovetv]

Yes. People who think their grandchildren will die without them there (as if the adult kids the grandparents raised are incompetent).

[bluedog103]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Yes

[Yankee Quilter]

We just moved from a very small, but building, over 55 ranch community in the Atlanta area. 2years ago, a woman moved in, attended one get together and told my husband, she moved out of TV as it was very unfriendly ..... We never saw her at another event, and neighbors near her said she refused any invites to do anything ... So is it the or the individual???

[kit9240]

I posted this because I just had a best friend from high school. This was not her first visit. These are her thoughts:
-Houses are like development/track homes
-Hates Fox News playing throughout the square
-Thinks parades are dumb
-Thinks golf carts are silly
-Not interested in golf
-Not interested in live music at the squares

[ilovetv]

I posted this because I just had a best friend from high school. This was not her first visit. These are her thoughts:
-Houses are like development/track homes
-Hates Fox News playing throughout the square
-Thinks parades are dumb
-Thinks golf carts are silly
-Not interested in golf
-Not interested in live music at the squares

This was a guest in your home?

As Ben Franklin said, "Fish and house guests stink after three days".

[Ohiogirl]

they are pretty much horrified by the thought of ANY retirement community - they recently bought in a family development (all ages) in Venice. Have their own pool and they do have retired and non-retired friends in the area, so maybe they will like it. Different strokes for different folks.

We like it here in TV. We have a relative retired in Ft Myers, in a retirement community, and they are bored - want to move here when/if the housing market there recovers and they can sell their house close to what they paid for it. They looked here - briefly - when TV was much smaller, about 9-10 yrs ago. Didn't pay much attention to the lifestyle, just how much house you could get for your money.

[njbchbum]

nope! one couple we know thought the villages was like a cruise ship that has no need to dock! :)

[Patty55]

Yes, one friend just hates Florida.

Another said she couldn't even think about living here because there aren't enough Jewish people and too many Republicans.

[kit9240]

This was a guest in your home?

As Ben Franklin said, "Fish and house guests stink after three days".

Yes........it's very difficult to entertain someone who is so negative about the place that I love so dearly! There isn't a day that goes by that my husband and I don't say how blessed we are to live in such a beautiful place. There is no place on earth like it! 101,000 people agree!!!

[Barefoot]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Yes.

[LvmyPug2]

Yes We had one friend tell us they couldn't live here because the houses are so close together. They had lived in the country their whole life and also didn't like the idea of of living somewhere with covenants

[Double Bogie]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Yes

[Parker]

Yes, but after a couple more visits, they moved here and love it. So you never know.

[Uptown Girl]

Oh sure. Much of my family have been urban dwellers all their lives. They live in the middle of big cities, where they walk or grab a cab to everything.
They love having the opera, symphony, universities, museums, theaters and art galleries be just a moment away.
They love the variety of ethnic restaurants, specialty corner grocery stores and the old architectural neighborhood enclaves tucked here and there within the city.
Their personal taste is high brow in every aspect and they look at me with that 'deer in the headlights' look when I talk about TV.:blahblahblah:
Truth be told, they would break out in a rash here.
But I love them anyway.

[Mimivillager]

My daughter and son in law are coming down to St Pete beach for a vacation. They love the beach and do not really enjoy visiting The Villages. We will spend a day with them at St Pete.

[tv2016]

My grown niece comes down and loves it. She did observe that the villages is more similar to suburbia then to a city or the country. People who prefer a city or the country may not find the villages an ideal home.

I had never looked at it quite that way

[graciegirl]

My grown niece comes down and loves it. She did observe that the villages is more similar to suburbia then to a city or the country. People who prefer a city or the country may not find the villages an ideal home.

I had never looked at it quite that way


THAT is a very good observation. I hadn't thought of it that way either. I have lived all of my life in suburban areas and it feels "just right".

[senior citizen]

How I first learned about TV was from some local townspeople up here who had parents living in THE VILLAGES. They spread the word to all of us about how great TV was.
They all hoped and dreamed about moving to TV and would visit the old folks as often as they could........last we heard, these three couples never did move to TV.
However, they did love it.

As far as NOT liking it, my daughter's brother in law, about our age and single, visited it for ONE DAY at the request of his friend. The Vermont friend has a winter home in TV. Well, I asked him what they did? He said they did take the boat ride on Lake Sumter Landing..........I believe they saw Spanish Springs, etc.

Then he drove back to the beach (Atlantic Coast) where he was renting a place.

His opinion was that TV was "PHONY" and "AN ADULT DISNEY WORLD" and "NOT FOR ME".....meaning him. I had asked him if they drove around to see "ALL" of the various villages and he replied that he had seen enough and that it was "ARTIFICIAL".

This same man experienced FOUR MUD SEASONS last spring due to the thaw, freezing, thaw, freezing, and again and again..............anyone who has lived in a state that still has DIRT ROADS knows what I mean..........but, he was just stating his opinion.

Obviously, we do not agree with him.......so don't shoot the messenger. Oh, the biggest thing he harps on when we gather for holidays or family get togethers is that he could never ever live in a place that was all R's. I can't believe that everyone in TV is an R. It doesn't matter to us.....but just telling you what the L.D. might perceive TV to be.

[LatDoc]

It fascinates me how many people hate the idea....old people....inland....hot....cookie cutter homes...but once they visit, they see the light and love it. Some are so sure they won't like it that they never even visit....shame on them.

[graciegirl]

How I first learned about TV was from some local townspeople up here who had parents living in THE VILLAGES. They spread the word to all of us about how great TV was.
They all hoped and dreamed about moving to TV and would visit the old folks as often as they could........last we heard, these three couples never did move to TV.
However, they did love it.

As far as NOT liking it, my daughter's brother in law, about our age and single, visited it for ONE DAY at the request of his friend. The Vermont friend has a winter home in TV. Well, I asked him what they did? He said they did take the boat ride on Lake Sumter Landing..........I believe they saw Spanish Springs, etc.

Then he drove back to the beach (Atlantic Coast) where he was renting a place.

His opinion was that TV was "PHONY" and "AN ADULT DISNEY WORLD" and "NOT FOR ME".....meaning him. I had asked him if they drove around to see "ALL" of the various villages and he replied that he had seen enough and that it was "ARTIFICIAL".

This same man experienced FOUR MUD SEASONS last spring due to the thaw, freezing, thaw, freezing, and again and again..............anyone who has lived in a state that still has DIRT ROADS knows what I mean..........but, he was just stating his opinion.

Obviously, we do not agree with him.......so don't shoot the messenger. Oh, the biggest thing he harps on when we gather for holidays or family get togethers is that he could never ever live in a place that was all R's. I can't believe that everyone in TV is an R. It doesn't matter to us.....but just telling you what the L.D. might perceive TV to be.

I THINK that many a rant and many a negative opinion posted on this forum is colored by folks who move here to find the atmosphere discribed in your last paragraph.They can't believe that they now live in that kind of a majority and do NOT like it at all.

I grew up in that climate and just like suburbia it is what I am used to.

[mickey100]

We've had friends move here, and other friends turn up their noses because the homes are tract homes, too close together (which they are let's face it). We bought in spite of the small home lots, and really enjoy our lifestyle here because we enjoy the activites and the many friends we have made. We ignore the Fox news at the Square, and actually rarely go to the square or to parades, just not our thing. With 100,000 people here, there are many of each political persuasion so something for everyone.

[jebartle]

I sure have missed your posts.:1rotfl::1rotfl:...Where have you been.?...




Actually I did but as they are now in psychiatric care it doesn't seem worth mentioning........
As I remember they did like dogs too.

Fumar ( mr. warmth ),,,,,,,,, :ho:

[Cantwaittoarrive]

Yes

[senior citizen]

I THINK that many a rant and many a negative opinion posted on this forum is colored by folks who move here to find the atmosphere discribed in your last paragraph.They can't believe that they now live in that kind of a majority and do NOT like it at all.

I grew up in that climate and just like suburbia it is what I am used to.

I know exactly what you mean. It doesn't matter to us, one way or another. We live our lives and don't care what other people do...or how they think. We are all entitled to our opinions.

When we moved to Vermont in 1970 it was a totally CONSERVATIVE state in every shape and form imaginable. Some parts of Vermont didn't even have electricity until the 1960's. Hard to believe, but we've seen the documentaries put out by our state on Public Television. In a way it was slightly backwards.

What a sea change has transpired in all the years after 1970.
The folks who were the "salt of the earth" are long gone....for the most part. They were the oldtimers.

It's become a totally ultra "L" state..........if the old farmers and such would rise from the dead, they would be in total shock at their beloved Green Mountain State's "new views".

We were among those who migrated up here........but we enjoyed the "difference" after we finally adjusted to the fact it was NOT New Jersey.

However, people flocked up here.........not just hippies but doctors and professionals, college professors from all the cities in the east.......and the nature of Vermont has definitely changed......as one can see by what gets voted into law. Our own high school and college kids had very "L" teachers and professors influencing them...........but we also knew some of the "old timey" traditional native Vermont professors and teachers.
Big change from 1970 to now...........

No problem with the viewpoint of those who reside in TV....that's for sure.

[graciegirl]

I know exactly what you mean. It doesn't matter to us, one way or another. We live our lives and don't care what other people do...or how they think. We are all entitled to our opinions.

When we moved to Vermont in 1970 it was a totally CONSERVATIVE state in every shape and form imaginable. Some parts of Vermont didn't even have electricity until the 1960's. Hard to believe, but we've seen the documentaries put out by our state on Public Television. In a way it was slightly backwards.

What a sea change has transpired in all the years after 1970.
The folks who were the "salt of the earth" are long gone....for the most part. They were the oldtimers.

It's become a totally ultra "L" state..........if the old farmers and such would rise from the dead, they would be in total shock at their beloved Green Mountain State's "new views".

We were among those who migrated up here........but we enjoyed the "difference" after we finally adjusted to the fact it was NOT New Jersey.

However, people flocked up here.........not just hippies but doctors and professionals, college professors from all the cities in the east.......and the nature of Vermont has definitely changed......as one can see by what gets voted into law. Our own high school and college kids had very "L" teachers and professors influencing them...........but we also knew some of the "old timey" traditional native Vermont professors and teachers.
Big change from 1970 to now...........

No problem with the viewpoint of those who reside in TV....that's for sure.


With age comes wisdom.......generally speaking...especially if you worked hard and saved your money and go to church and all that stuff we were raised to do.

[BettyCrocked]

It's definitely not for everybody, but that doesn't mean the people who don't like it should be criticized. Some people like a little privacy and the postage stamp lots here do not appeal to those people.

[quirky3]

Obviously, we do not agree with him.......so don't shoot the messenger. Oh, the biggest thing he harps on when we gather for holidays or family get togethers is that he could never ever live in a place that was all R's. I can't believe that everyone in TV is an R. It doesn't matter to us.....but just telling you what the L.D. might perceive TV to be.

Hmmmm......so I guess it's OK to reference political parties as long as it's abbreviated:shrug:

[2BNTV]

It can't be all R's as the D's won. TV is not right for some but it's right for me.

I tend to think that some people gives reasons as why they don't like it because some people don't like change and are very resistance to starting a new lifestyle.

Ive heard:
1. It's too hot in the summer.
2. Too many bugs.
3. Aligators are going to get you.

I can se some people wanting to stay near their children and grandchildren. I have also seen people say they see their children and grandchildren more since TV is close to Disney World.

To each their own. :smiley:

[CFrance]

Oh sure. Much of my family have been urban dwellers all their lives. They live in the middle of big cities, where they walk or grab a cab to everything.
They love having the opera, symphony, universities, museums, theaters and art galleries be just a moment away.
They love the variety of ethnic restaurants, specialty corner grocery stores and the old architectural neighborhood enclaves tucked here and there within the city.
Their personal taste is high brow in every aspect and they look at me with that 'deer in the headlights' look when I talk about TV.:blahblahblah:
Truth be told, they would break out in a rash here.
But I love them anyway.

I have the same relatives. And I share their love of all things Big City. But you cant have it all. I'm content to get my Big City fix on travels and enjoy the weather and activities here the rest of the time. They can stay home, and I won't be offended

[CFrance]

We've had friends move here, and other friends turn up their noses because the homes are tract homes, too close together (which they are let's face it). We bought in spite of the small home lots, and really enjoy our lifestyle here because we enjoy the activites and the many friends we have made. We ignore the Fox news at the Square, and actually rarely go to the square or to parades, just not our thing. With 100,000 people here, there are many of each political persuasion so something for everyone.

:BigApplause:

[bigallis1]

Your friends second thought would raise a flag for me! She does not sound village friendly!

I posted this because I just had a best friend from high school. This was not her first visit. These are her thoughts:
-Houses are like development/track homes
-Hates Fox News playing throughout the square
-Thinks parades are dumb
-Thinks golf carts are silly
-Not interested in golf
-Not interested in live music at the squares

[wendyquat]

Yes We had one friend tell us they couldn't live here because the houses are so close together. They had lived in the country their whole life and also didn't like the idea of of living somewhere with covenants

And we also have friends like this! They enjoy visiting us but HE would not want to live here! SHE would love to!

[CFrance]

hmmmm......so i guess it's ok to reference political parties as long as it's abbreviated:shrug:

shhhh!!!

[Moderator]

Let's try to keep political and partisan references and opinions out of this thread unless it is within the context of the topic (i.e. a reason for not liking the Villages).

[graciegirl]

It's definitely not for everybody, but that doesn't mean the people who don't like it should be criticized. Some people like a little privacy and the postage stamp lots here do not appeal to those people.

No. No one should be criticized.

But please don't move here, live here, when you can buy elsewhere and be happy.

I am as entitled to my being happy and my positive opinion about this place as those who play a dirge all of the time.

AND I think a LOT of it is politically motivated..

[Big47moe]

If you don't like pie........don't eat it!

[Suzi]

For those people who live and enjoy the amenities of a large city center - they may have difficulty imagining themselves in an "isolated" community. In the same way, those who live in a small rural town with considerable open fields/woods might find TV rather compact with small lots and close neighbors. There are millions of people across this beautiful country and this place will not be for everyone. Nor should we expect everyone to understand our choice to live here. There is nothing wrong with our or others opinions. We should not need other people (visitors) to validate our reasons for choosing the villages. Rather than being possibly offended if someone does not embrace TV with the same enthusiasm as we do, lets just keep it "our little secret". TV sells itself to the people who are receptive.....the others belong somewhere else!

[graciegirl]

For those people who live and enjoy the amenities of a large city center - they may have difficulty imagining themselves in an "isolated" community. In the same way, those who live in a small rural town with considerable open fields/woods might find TV rather compact with small lots and close neighbors. There are millions of people across this beautiful country and this place will not be for everyone. Nor should we expect everyone to understand our choice to live here. There is nothing wrong with our or others opinions. We should not need other people (visitors) to validate our reasons for choosing the villages. Rather than being possibly offended if someone does not embrace TV with the same enthusiasm as we do, lets just keep it "our little secret". TV sells itself to the people who are receptive.....the others belong somewhere else!

Well said.

[NotGolfer]

Two sets of friends---who've visited here (before we moved here) told us they weren't impressed. One of them has a place south of Orlando that they come and visit now and then. They both gave the comment..."Disneyland for adults!"

A couple up north (relatives actually) keep asking "how do you 'like' living in FL? How do you stand the summers?" Only one of the couple have been here (the husband) to visit---actually passing through.

I just think "some" folks are jealous and can't be happy for others....

[John_W]

My brother has owned a townhouse with a 2 car garage in New Smyrna Beach since 1988. He's 5 years older than me and has already retired from his job in Philadelphia a couple of years ago.

He came here two years ago and looked at the models with us on our LSV and has visited twice since we've moved in 2011. He doesn't play golf or softball like me, and his place is paid off and would cost at least twice as much to move here. He also said he really likes being near Daytona and enjoys it when the bikers and race fans come to town and he's only ten minutes from the beach. Coming from Philly he is also very liberal and was somewhat turned off by the conservative nature and lack of freedoms that TV sometimes portrays.

If you take route 44 it goes right by his subdivision about two hours away. So I believe he'll continue to visit and we have visited his place but I don't see him moving here anytime soon.

.

[perrjojo]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

YES, but she hates everything that is not her idea! :duck:
Disney Land for adults? What's wrong with that? Everyone loves the Magic Kingdom..... Well, maybe not my friend cuz she hates everything.

[ilovetv]

"Disneyland for adults" does not fit TV at all because TV is affordable to people who see the wisdom of not living on credit cards.

[George Bieniaszek]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

Not possible. But I'm sure if these people didn't like The Villages would also be the ones that would complain after winning POWERBALL and all the taxes they have to pay. The chronic complainers just have to be tuned out.

[Trish Crocker]

I met someone that didn't like it...she wasn't an R or a D or an L....she was more like a B. I'm glad she's not moving here. :)

[PennBF]

I had a relative visit us a few times from California. THeir opinion was that it was just "too good". They loved it but could not live here becase it lacked challenges. They love to come and visit and enjoy the amenties but then go back to the lost cause of California.:ho:

[graciegirl]

I met someone that didn't like it...she wasn't an R or a D or an L....she was more like a B. I'm glad she's not moving here. :)

AND THAT, my dear is the reason I love you to pieces.

Trish. You always nail it.

[2BNTV]

I met someone that didn't like it...she wasn't an R or a D or an L....she was more like a B. I'm glad she's not moving here. :)

:1rotfl:

I have friends who say they are going to visit. I will be looking forward to their comments as I have a sneaky suspicion they will turn around thei point of view. I think they will say it's right for you but.......... fill in the blanks.

A couple of them are starting to lean towards I can't stand the winters anymore sooooooooooooo......................I am somewhat hopeful. I hope my best friend changes his mind so we'll see.

If people don't like it, I'm ok with that as it leaves more choices for a home I can buy. :smiley:

[vj1213]

i've had friends visit who didn't like it. It's not for everyone...and thank God for that! I love it...it's not perfect...but it's home!

[mickey100]

i've had friends visit who didn't like it. It's not for everyone...and thank God for that! I love it...it's not perfect...but it's home!


I think a lot of people feel this way - its not perfect, but we love it here, and its home! :clap2:

[keithwand]

Yes. 2 sons have visited and they thought it was OK for us and 1 daughter has yet to visit and said too many old people.
Friends have visited and some enjoyed it and some don't get it.
I don't need assurance from family or friends that we did the right thing and love it here.

[keithwand]

Yes. 2 sons have visited and they thought it was OK for us and 1 daughter has yet to visit and said too many old people.
Friends have visited and some enjoyed it and some don't get it.
I don't need assurance from family or friends that we did the right thing and love it here.

[mickey100]

I personally think there are always compromises to be made. You just want to be aware up front of what they are. That is one nice thing about TOTV - you can get honest information about the pros and cons of The Villages, then you can make up your mind as to whether or not this community might be of interest to you.

[Mack184]

There's an interesting sub-text running all through this thread. There are many posters who seem dumbfounded as to why everyone 55+ wouldn't love TV and there must be something wrong with those who don't.

Personally I can think of lots of reasons not to be enthralled with TV. However, since YOU are here and YOU like it and are happy here, why do YOU care that everyone doesn't share your view?

Just enjoy what you've got and don't worry about why others don't share your vision.

[JourneyOfLife]

There's an interesting sub-text running all through this thread. There are many posters who seem dumbfounded as to why everyone 55+ wouldn't love TV and there must be something wrong with those who don't.

Personally I can think of lots of reasons not to be enthralled with TV. However, since YOU are here and YOU like it and are happy here, why do YOU care that everyone doesn't share your view?

Just enjoy what you've got and don't worry about why others don't share your vision.

Good observation.

[Roaddog53]

We had the in-laws down for over a week and took them all over, including many of the model homes to see what was available. Most "common comment" the whole time was the closeness of the houses back to back. To the point of laughing about it. The next was way too much money for the house. Both very true. Each has to have their preferences for which they consider their lifestyle and bang for their buck.

[graciegirl]

I selfishly want only people who love this place to choose it for their home.

Since it is a retirement community designed for the over 55 population, I hope that all who love it will move here.

I think that it would be appealing to almost anyone but I really don't want those who just want to make it a business opportunity buying here to never live here and just rent out a home... or those who want to change it trying to do so.

It is home for many of us and you can see the love we feel for it by reading this forum.

I don't want to say love it or leave it, but if you are not drawn to how it is and how it is run, please don't join us in our journey.

It isn't perfect. But danged close in my view and obviously the view of a lot of people equally enjoying it.

No one has to pressure anyone to buy here, and I am pretty sure they don't.

At this point the developers can't build the homes fast enough.

I just want for people who want to call it home to be here with us during this wonderful second half of the game of life.

[2newyorkers]

A cousin does not like TV because there are too many old people. A friend likes TV but feels you get more house for your buck outside of TV and you can still partake in many of the things TV offers.
I am glad I am old enought to live in TV. I already did the big house, big yard, inground pool when I was younger with a growing family. I am glad I now have a small house and yard so I have more time to participate in TV activities.

[MSG@TV]

THAT is a very good observation. I hadn't thought of it that way either. I have lived all of my life in suburban areas and it feels "just right".

Me, too. I'm just not a city person. However, since I'm not yet living in TV, I don't know if I will find its size overwhelming. Then again, one can draw boundaries several different ways to form a community. In other words, community could be your street, your village, your clubmates, or the entire Villages and beyond.

[KyWoman]

I met someone that didn't like it...she wasn't an R or a D or an L....she was more like a B. I'm glad she's not moving here. :)

Ha! Tish, you stole my thunder.......we must have the same friend!

[graciegirl]

Ha! Tish, you stole my thunder.......we must have the same friend!

Oh no. You both are my dear friends. Is it me???

No. I already live here.

Sometimes I am a B.

[kbace6]

I met someone that didn't like it...she wasn't an R or a D or an L....she was more like a B. I'm glad she's not moving here. :)

Good one! :1rotfl:

[BettyCrocked]

There's an interesting sub-text running all through this thread. There are many posters who seem dumbfounded as to why everyone 55+ wouldn't love TV and there must be something wrong with those who don't.

Personally I can think of lots of reasons not to be enthralled with TV. However, since YOU are here and YOU like it and are happy here, why do YOU care that everyone doesn't share your view?

Just enjoy what you've got and don't worry about why others don't share your vision.

:clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2:
This reply would be relevant in MANY threads here.

[mickey100]

:clap2::clap2::clap2::clap2:
This reply would be relevant in MANY threads here.

How true, sigh.

[rubicon]

First, while not seeming rude or arrogant, I really don't care what other people think. My views are my views and I understand we are all different and respect those differences.

some of my friends loved TV while others did not. One relative said it was too cold this far north and couldn't wait to return to south Florida.

I'sm sure some folks view it as a nice place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there.

[Trish Crocker]

Oh no. You both are my dear friends. Is it me???

No. I already live here.

Sometimes I am a B.

Gracie, you could never be a B (actually, we all can but sometimes it's a badge of honor).

[travelguy]

This is now home. I do not care if my kids like it, or if my relatives like it, or even if some of my friends like it. We love it, and that is all that matters. Yes, we are far away from the family, but this is our choice and our lives. We did not ask them if they minded that we move away......our daughter thought it was strange that we would even consider asking her......'it is your life' was the response. As far as the homes, you get way more value in a home here than in the Philadelphia area, the yards are about the same as in southern California at about 1/5 the price here, and once the build-out is completed our home values will appreciate, which is not something that is happening anywhere else in this country (no recovery yet since 2008).

[Mikeod]

I can understand why someone from a rural setting might be turned off by the closeness of the homes. When the nearest neighbor is hundreds of feet away, these houses seem like townhomes. But, as we age, there is comfort in having neighbors so close. In our neighborhood, we have two AEDs that can be at anyone's home within a minute or so. We know if someone is away, so we can report any unusual activity around their home.

On the other hand, someone from an urban setting could feel they were moving to the sticks. Being used to having whatever you need close by plus museums, the arts, and professional sports in town might make this place seem empty.

But this place and its inhabitants please me and, as others have said, I don't need my decision to live here validated by others' opinions of TV.

[DandyGirl]

We lived south of Atlanta and brought a couple from our neighborhood down with us on a LV. She didn't like it cause she didn't want to be around old people all the time! (she's no spring chicken!) Now the town is over run by Zombies so it serves them right!!! (Actually the tv show The Walking Dead is filmed in the town). LOL!

[CarGuys]

I posted this because I just had a best friend from high school. This was not her first visit. These are her thoughts:
-Houses are like development/track homes
-Hates Fox News playing throughout the square
-Thinks parades are dumb
-Thinks golf carts are silly
-Not interested in golf
-Not interested in live music at the squares

Had a couple visit from NC and prior Syracuse NY.

He wanted to move here. She thought all of the above and threw in.

Over Crowded
Silly Squares with all the music and dancing
No Culture
Overpirce homes for the size and lots.
Designer homes and Villages reminded her of manufactured trailer parks
All the activities were " Stupid"
Etc.

Could not wait for them to leave-

On the other hand a friend of ours who has lived here 8 years and showed us the villages and convinced us to move.

He just sold his house said he can't take the snowbirds traffic and 100k people.

Moved back home.

Just saying- Don't kill the messanger!

[2 Oldcrabs]

I have a sister who lives here and loves it. Another sister & brother do not like it here. We have several friends tell us it is a nice place to visit but would not want to live here. We like it here but, it is too crowded in the winter months. That is why resturants have a menu. No every one likes the same thing.:read:

[Barefoot]

There's an interesting sub-text running all through this thread. There are many posters who seem dumbfounded as to why everyone 55+ wouldn't love TV and there must be something wrong with those who don't.

I find myself in agreement with Mack. We personally love The Villages, but there is nothing wrong with people who don't love TV!! Many people choose to retire in other communities. This doesn't make them stupid or jealous or boring or lazy or chronic complainers or anti social.

I think Suzi said it beautifully:

"For those people who live and enjoy the amenities of a large city center - they may have difficulty imagining themselves in an "isolated" community. In the same way, those who live in a small rural town with considerable open fields/woods might find TV rather compact with small lots and close neighbors. There are millions of people across this beautiful country and this place will not be for everyone. Nor should we expect everyone to understand our choice to live here. There is nothing wrong with our or others opinions."

[senior citizen]

It can't be all R's as the D's won. TV is not right for some but it's right for me.

I tend to think that some people gives reasons as why they don't like it because some people don't like change and are very resistance to starting a new lifestyle.

Ive heard:
1. It's too hot in the summer.
2. Too many bugs.
3. Aligators are going to get you.

I can se some people wanting to stay near their children and grandchildren. I have also seen people say they see their children and grandchildren more since TV is close to Disney World.

To each their own. :smiley:

Disney World is a huge draw, however, with limited school vacations , we would expect the grandchildren to fly down once or twice a year at the very most. Both of our sets of 5 grandchildren total do not live a driveable distance to The Villages......so would have to fly.

When they were babies, with no commitments, it was easier for their parents to bring them "home" much more often.........but we all know what happens once they start school, town activities, church activities and sports, plus all of their friends birthday parties and sleepovers..........they all become overscheduled.......and visits to the grandparents lessen.

But this is healthy and normal. Not all families still live in the same neighborhood or even the same town or state.

So, now it's time for us. We've weighed all of these considerations.

But...............the alligators are still worrisome...........(just kidding).

p.s.
Many folks are adventerous and have relocated to other parts of the country during their lifetimes. However, many others do find solace in the "familiar".........and if they were lucky enough to live in a nice community with very little stress for over 43 years, the only thing that will get them to MOVE is usually the weather (cold, damp, rainy, snowy, icy, etc.) which although tolerable when younger......just gets old after too many long winters................and what was once a great family home becomes way too humongous to care for. Often, less is more...........

[Trish Crocker]

It really doesn't matter if everyone likes it here. There will always be people that like more open spaces, people that don't golf and don't see the reason to move to an area that has so many courses..people that don't want to be this far from family, people that HATE restrictions, etc, etc.........but for the rest of us...it's great! Not that I would ever do it, but I love the idea of being able to run over to my neighbors to borrow a cup of sugar if I need to. I miss that, the idea of old fashioned neighborhoods, being able to invite people over to just hang out, b**ch about world problems and just enjoy being together. This is my view of The Villages and I am so happy we are here.

[KennyC]

I have often said....

Give em a million, and they ask why not a million and one?

[senior citizen]

For those people who live and enjoy the amenities of a large city center - they may have difficulty imagining themselves in an "isolated" community. In the same way, those who live in a small rural town with considerable open fields/woods might find TV rather compact with small lots and close neighbors. There are millions of people across this beautiful country and this place will not be for everyone. Nor should we expect everyone to understand our choice to live here. There is nothing wrong with our or others opinions. We should not need other people (visitors) to validate our reasons for choosing the villages. Rather than being possibly offended if someone does not embrace TV with the same enthusiasm as we do, lets just keep it "our little secret". TV sells itself to the people who are receptive.....the others belong somewhere else!

EXCELLENT POST. Well said.

[Indy-Guy]

I had a brother visit. I knew he would not like the place and I knew he would tell me. I did not ask him since I knew he was going to tell me before he left. When he told me he did not like this place I said I know what you mean that is how I feel about where you live. He got mad. Go figure!

[Scoops]

A cousin does not like TV because there are too many old people. A friend likes TV but feels you get more house for your buck outside of TV and you can still partake in many of the things TV offers.
I am glad I am old enought to live in TV. I already did the big house, big yard, inground pool when I was younger with a growing family. I am glad I now have a small house and yard so I have more time to participate in TV activities.

I love living here. My quality of life has improved 1000% since we moved here last year. We too have done the big house, pool, yada yada. But living here has been so liberating with fewer responsibilities, more time for fun!

[Tom Hannon]

My wife's friends came to visit us in The Villages. They have a place in Tampa and stopped over on their return to NY. During their three hour visit they sat in the kitchen shooting the bull and drinking coffee. I offered them a golf cart tour but they declined. I offered to take them to Cody's and get a bite to eat and again they declined. For three hours all they did was sit...never leaving the house. A few days later they tell my wife "The Villages did nothing for them and they weren't impressed."

[rmcpklinefelter]

...again different strokes for different folks...we are happy and content here, our kids are happy for us. (The son-in-law (32) wants to live in TV, now!) Priorities change and when you find a place that fits most if not all of your priorities it's special.

[Taltarzac725]

Have a long time family friend who hated the Villages. Did not even like the polo games but raved about their hot dog stand's dogs and even asked them where they got their meat. He has probably moved 30 times during his lifetime though as he gets sick fairly quickly of his surroundings and just gets up and moves again.

Usually the family members who have not wanted to move to the Villages had long established friendships and personal memories attached to certain places and did not want to move even if all their children had moved out of these cocoons.

[ilovetv]

My wife's friends came to visit us in The Villages. They have a place in Tampa and stopped over on their return to NY. During their three hour visit they sat in the kitchen shooting the bull and drinking coffee. I offered them a golf cart tour but they declined. I offered to take them to Cody's and get a bite to eat and again they declined. For three hours all they did was sit...never leaving the house. A few days later they tell my wife "The Villages did nothing for them and they weren't impressed."

I think this post sums up a lot of why we are discussing this. I can honestly say I have never gone to visit somebody, at their invitation, and gave them an evaluation and analysis of their home, neighborhood and town.

Even though they LOVE it, in NYC I never told them, "The streets and buildings are dirt-coated and too close together and the rent is too damn high".

In Chicago suburbs and "The City"--capitalized and pronounced/enunciated reverently like "The Son of God"--I never told them "I could never live here, sitting in the car on the so-called "express"way for three hours trying to go 3 miles. And there are too many democrats and the STD rate is too high" (never mind the fact we've been married and had the same and only partner for the last 40 years).

We didn't go there to evaluate and critique where they live, but to visit with them and enjoy the things and places they like....and we liked also.

[Tweety Bird]

Yes, I knew of a couple that would rather have lived in an over 55 community in Arizona. Why? Because all the children and grandchildren live in California and the flight would be more expensive and would be ALL day.

[Tweety Bird]

Yes. People who think their grandchildren will die without them there (as if the adult kids the grandparents raised are incompetent).


The grandkids know where we live. Let them come here. Lots of motels around. :a040:

[lovsthosebigdogs]

I think this post sums up a lot of why we are discussing this. I can honestly say I have never gone to visit somebody, at their invitation, and gave them an evaluation and analysis of their home, neighborhood and town.

Even though they LOVE it, in NYC I never told them, "The streets and buildings are dirt-coated and too close together and the rent is too damn high".

In Chicago suburbs and "The City"--capitalized and prounced/enunciated reverently like "The Son of God"--I never told them "I could never live here, sitting in the car on the so-called "express"way for three hours trying to go 3 miles. And there are too many democrats and the STD rate is too high" (never mind the fact we've been married and had the same and only partner for the last 40 years).

We didn't go there to evaluate and critique where they live, but to visit with them and enjoy the things and places they like....and we liked also.

I think you and TomHannon summed it up very well and I agree. My sister and her husband HATE The Villages although they haven't visited yet and they hate the 'condos' we all live in, even though we don't. They know everything about it and I know by the time they get here they won't need to see anything to be sure they are experts. They have always disliked what isn't their idea. It won't be for them BUT I don't care since it is MY choice and frankly, I am thrilled that it isn't for everyone. I don't really want to population to double and be 200,000. Some of my friends are thrilled for me; some swear it's a huge mistake. I'm not an old-timer like some others, but I still get excited every day for a retirement that will allow me to live in TV for what it is without being perfect. It's a choice I made for myself with all the good that comes with it. I only need for my husband and me to love it.

[angel222]

I've had two single friends (ladies) visit and tell me it's fun to visit but can't understand why I would want to live here since its sooo couple oriented. They are right that there are a tremendous amount of couples here but that doesn't mean there's no room for those of us that are single...I enjoy many activities with PEOPLE not "singles" or "couples".... Guess I'm not much for "labels" -- I'm just a "people person"!

[lanabanana73]

I've had two single friends (ladies) visit and tell me it's fun to visit but can't understand why I would want to live here since its sooo couple oriented. They are right that there are a tremendous amount of couples here but that doesn't mean there's no room for those of us that are single...I enjoy many activities with PEOPLE not "singles" or "couples".... Guess I'm not much for "labels" -- I'm just a "people person"!

THAT is a wonderful attitude!

[jtdraig]

LOL,, we have good friends who tend to be a little on the snobby side and live in Sarasota. They belong here but they will never come because they can't get past the Sarasota thing. We laugh because we have it SO much better here in all respects except the ocean isn't nearby. They turned their noses up a bit when we moved here. They have one country club at which they pay equity membership fees; three nine hole courses; the club, while nice, is on the verge of bankruptcy and has continual employee turnover; they have a nice house but they could have a nicer one in a place like Bridgeport or something like that but their house's value is no where near what they paid for it; Sarasota in the winter is a traffic nightmare; and, we might be country people now but we have it SO much better...and, they know it but will never admit it. :gc:

[ilovetv]

"They have one country club at which they pay equity membership fees; three nine hole courses; the club, while nice, is on the verge of bankruptcy and has continual employee turnover; they have a nice house but they could have a nicer one in a place like Bridgeport or something like that but their house's value is no where near what they paid for it; Sarasota in the winter is a traffic nightmare;"

So true!

[villagerjack]

My wife's friends came to visit us in The Villages. They have a place in Tampa and stopped over on their return to NY. During their three hour visit they sat in the kitchen shooting the bull and drinking coffee. I offered them a golf cart tour but they declined. I offered to take them to Cody's and get a bite to eat and again they declined. For three hours all they did was sit...never leaving the house. A few days later they tell my wife "The Villages did nothing for them and they weren't impressed."

Had the same experience. People see what they want to see. Where I saw a beautiful golf course, one of our relatives saw an open field where tornados could come at us unobstructed and golfers would use bad language and relieve themselves in front of our home. Is Envy still one of the deadly sins?

[LndLocked]

Why is it so important to so many that their choice of living in TV is validated by others. Comments about those that did not like TV are almost always some version of .... they are stupid and don't get it .... I am smart and do.

If you like TV, great! Enjoy yourself. If someone else do not like TV, great! They can enjoy where they do like.

[notlongnow]

I for one hope that most don't like TV! If everyone did and moved there it would no longer be TV. I don't live there YET but hope to. My wife loves it but says see can't see us living there because the houses all look the same. It is hard to argue this and even harder to persuade her otherwise because I am an architect and have design custom homes for over thirty years and have long drummed into her head how I don't like tract homes so I guess I peed in my own soup!!
I love TV because of the lifestyle not the houses. I really don't mind the way the houses look that much either. I have been there three times to visit my parents and will be there again in April to visit and try to show how beautiful the homes in TV can be.

EB

[graciegirl]

LOL,, we have good friends who tend to be a little on the snobby side and live in Sarasota. They belong here but they will never come because they can't get past the Sarasota thing. We laugh because we have it SO much better here in all respects except the ocean isn't nearby. They turned their noses up a bit when we moved here. They have one country club at which they pay equity membership fees; three nine hole courses; the club, while nice, is on the verge of bankruptcy and has continual employee turnover; they have a nice house but they could have a nicer one in a place like Bridgeport or something like that but their house's value is no where near what they paid for it; Sarasota in the winter is a traffic nightmare; and, we might be country people now but we have it SO much better...and, they know it but will never admit it. :gc:


We have friends who MUST live in the same golf community. I think they like being big ducks in a small pond.

[graciegirl]

I think this post sums up a lot of why we are discussing this. I can honestly say I have never gone to visit somebody, at their invitation, and gave them an evaluation and analysis of their home, neighborhood and town.

Even though they LOVE it, in NYC I never told them, "The streets and buildings are dirt-coated and too close together and the rent is too damn high".

In Chicago suburbs and "The City"--capitalized and pronounced/enunciated reverently like "The Son of God"--I never told them "I could never live here, sitting in the car on the so-called "express"way for three hours trying to go 3 miles. And there are too many democrats and the STD rate is too high" (never mind the fact we've been married and had the same and only partner for the last 40 years).

We didn't go there to evaluate and critique where they live, but to visit with them and enjoy the things and places they like....and we liked also.


If Swimdawg still posted she'd probably give you the post of the day.

[senior citizen]

We have friends who MUST live in the same golf community. I think they like being big ducks in a small pond.

In all fairness as to why some folks might choose Sarasota.........check out the Ringling Museum of Art website.

Ringling Museum of Art (http://ringling.org/)
The museum is wonderful; the waterfront gardens are amazing. People of all ages enjoy it. In our 40’s we remember a 90 something spry lady we met at the museum.

Sarasota has an awful lot going for it. We have a friend who retired there; recently deceased. Lived on a golf course. According to her, neither of them EVER golfed. She just liked the privacy out back.

She and her husband, a retired superintendent of schools in Connecticut, also deceased, had a terrific retirement....both passed in their very late 90’s.

She was originally from Cambridge, Mass. and he was from Maine.........then lived in Connecticut.

They went between Sarasota and their cottage on Pemaquid Peninsula Maine ......

My friend was an author, thus she enjoyed the “culture” in Sarasota and belonged to many groups, even into her very elder years.

We enjoyed visiting Sarasota ; remembering one really great Cuban restaurant.......upscale luxury Cuban restaurant; wonderful food.

The Ringling Museum of Art is a great tourist attraction........as are the beautiful beaches, just over the causeway........very very short drive.

We always flew right into Sarasota’s airport........nice size; not too big. Since we always went "off season" in early spring, we never experienced the traffic jams of the "high season".....but actually we were in Venice during December, January, February, March and April.........and ditto re both Venice and Sarasota. Never saw any massive traffic jams at all.......not on the beach side coastal roads..........maybe inland?? On the major highway???

I truly believe there is a place for everyone and that not everyone has to like the same place.........or we would all be cookie cutter objects.

We'd also go to Sanibel Island in the springtime and never had traffic congestion at all...........yet we've heard from neighbors of ours who went in January that it was bumper to bumper over the causeway from Fort Myers to Sanibel Island and even on the island.........but we never saw it. Just lucky I guess. Everyone has a different perception of what is nice and what isn't. The parts we saw of Sarasota were truly very nice. Ironically, our two lawyer neighbors in our old neighborhood here, both were from Sarasota and only thing they complained about was the heat; thus the move to Vermont and it's four seasons.

I also do genealogy with a cousin whose son lives in Sarasota; know for a fact he and his wife LOVE visiting the son and his family and love Sarasota. We loved the museum and the beaches.

Great shopping also, for those into that.

Sarasota Florida Beaches: Siesta, Lido, Longboat, Venice, Casey, Manasota | Visit Sarasota : The Official Website for Visit Sarasota County on Florida's Gulf Coast (http://www.visitsarasota.org/beaches/)

Sarasota has beautiful white sand beaches...........Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido, etc. and a short ride away is Nokomis Beach, Casey Key and Venice Beach, Casperson Beach....

[mickey100]

Why is it so important to so many that their choice of living in TV is validated by others. Comments about those that did not like TV are almost always some version of .... they are stupid and don't get it .... I am smart and do.

If you like TV, great! Enjoy yourself. If someone else do not like TV, great! They can enjoy where they do like.

Thank you - an intelligent post! :bowdown:

[senior citizen]

Still on the subject of Sarasota.........alas, nothing in this world is perfect.

Sarasota Red Tide : The Official Website for Visit Sarasota County on Florida's Gulf Coast (http://www.visitsarasota.org/media-room/about-red-tide/)

This is one of the two reasons we chose to leave our Gulf of Mexico beachfront condo..............the realtors never divulged the horrible symptoms caused by the Red Tide.........always has been there and always will. So, it is a negative if you want to avoid bronchial distress........

[villagerjack]

Still on the subject of Sarasota.........alas, nothing in this world is perfect.

Sarasota Red Tide : The Official Website for Visit Sarasota County on Florida's Gulf Coast (http://www.visitsarasota.org/media-room/about-red-tide/)

This is one of the two reasons we chose to leave our Gulf of Mexico beachfront condo..............the realtors never divulged the horrible symptoms caused by the Red Tide.........always has been there and always will. So, it is a negative if you want to avoid bronchial distress........

Sanibel was our top choice years aho but we discarded it after being there with Red Tide and environmentalists who let the dead fish killed by Red Tide rot on the beach, "natures way" Sickening.

[senior citizen]

Sanibel was our top choice years aho but we discarded it after being there with Red Tide and environmentalists who let the dead fish killed by Red Tide rot on the beach, "natures way" Sickening.

After the kids outgrew 15 or more years of Disney, we'd take April school vacation on Sanibel Island each year, renting a condo on the beach.
I believe it was the "High Tide".........it was new at the time.

Never experienced the red tide on Sanibel or Captiva.

It wasn't until we bought in Venice, beachfront..........actually, it was the year before we bought, but just thought hubby had a "cold". He thought he got something from the lady realtor's car. I thought perhaps from the airplane flight....stale air, etc.

We visited quite a few times and Venice was a nicely laid out, planned community, called a "Main Street" Florida community and that's what we wanted as that's what we were used to in Vermont........it was pretty.
It was a totally self contained town.

We sold our home, flew down, during high season in December.....bouncing around from rental condo to rental condo while waiting for the one we bought to be remodeled..........it came out great.

All along, hubby was having these really bad symptoms...........he was strangling......we still didn't know what it was.........we didn't leave because of the red tide, but another issue............and to get my mom who was in early stage alzheimers back to her support system, and ours, in Vermont..............but then I began to do research and back then it was kind of a "hidden secret" about the red tide............now they have to post it I notice..............but we never saw any dead fish. Just felt like black pepper in our throats all the time...........coughing, irritation, almost pnuemonia like symptoms with the "braided phlegm" he had......not to gross anyone out...............but we returned to pure clean COLD air; got off the plane in April ; it was 36 degrees at Albany, N.Y. airport and all three of us said..........."Ah, we can breathe."

That was almost twenty years ago and now we are craving the sunshine again........for the old bones........and I know The Villages does not have the red tide.

But, what an experience that was. As I've mentioned, our realtor always wore a white surgical mask. We must have been very trusting back then. He never divulged the red tide.

Venice had some nice smaller beaches also, besides the newly refurbished beach that we were on, Venice Beach. It also had jetties where the skidoos would go out/jetskis, boating..........the other beach was secluded; Casperson Beach and Nokomis , next town, also had a nice deserted beach.

Again, not everything is what it seems........even on three or four visits.

I won't mention the reason we left as when I first was researching TV, some didn't like the topic ; but I figured we don't want to make the same mistake again. But, TV doesn't have OLD CITY sewers, right? Or canals, or big pipes that let the water out onto a beach, right?

[manaboutown]

After the kids outgrew 15 or more years of Disney, we'd take April school vacation on Sanibel Island each year, renting a condo on the beach.
I believe it was the "High Tide".........it was new at the time.

Never experienced the red tide on Sanibel or Captiva.

It wasn't until we bought in Venice, beachfront..........actually, it was the year before we bought, but just thought hubby had a "cold". He thought he got something from the lady realtor's car. I thought perhaps from the airplane flight....stale air, etc.

We visited quite a few times and Venice was a nicely laid out, planned community, called a "Main Street" Florida community and that's what we wanted as that's what we were used to in Vermont........it was pretty.
It was a totally self contained town

We sold our home, flew down, during high season in December.....bouncing around from rental condo to rental condo while waiting for the one we bought to be remodeled..........it came out great.

All along, hubby was having these really bad symptoms...........he was strangling......we still didn't know what it was.........we didn't leave because of the red tide, but another issue............and to get my mom who was in early stage alzheimers back to her support system, and ours, in Vermont..............but then I began to do research and back then it was kind of a "hidden secret" about the red tide............now they have to post it I notice..............but we never saw any dead fish. Just felt like black pepper in our throats all the time...........coughing, irritation, almost pnuemonia like symptoms with the "braided phlegm" he had......not to gross anyone out...............but we returned to pure clean COLD air; got off the plane in April ; it was 36 degrees at Albany, N.Y. airport and all three of us said..........."Ah, we can breathe."

That was almost twenty years ago and now we are craving the sunshine again........for the old bones........and I know The Villages does not have the red tide.

But, what an experience that was. As I've mentioned, our realtor always wore a white surgical mask. We must have been very trusting back then. He never divulged the red tide.

Venice had some nice smaller beaches also, besides the newly refurbished beach that we were on, Venice Beach. It also had jetties where the skidoos would go out/jetskis, boating..........the other beach was secluded; Casperson Beach and Nokomis , next town, also had a nice deserted beach.

Again, not everything is what it seems........even on three or four visits.

I won't mention the reason we left as when I first was researching TV, some didn't like the topic ; but I figured we don't want to make the same mistake again. But, TV doesn't have sewers, right? Or canals, or big pipes that let the water out onto a beach, right?

Back in the early 1980's I attended a continuing education course at a resort hotel on Longboat Key. Whenever I left the hotel and went out on the beach I started to get a strange tickling in my throat, develop some nasal congestion and cough some. The nearer I got to the water the worse my cough and congestion became. Very near the water is was almost impossible for me to breath, much less inhale a really deep breath. Welcome to the Red Tide. After I returned home I did develop pneumonia which as I look back probably got its start with the Red Tide.

The traffic on Longboat Key was very bad, it being March or April. I did spend some time in Sarasota, visiting the Ringling House and grounds, as well as some of the very hard sell timeshares just starting up. I recall one was a converted motel for which I calculated that for the cost of a a week or two's "ownership" one could probably build the place.

[ilovetv]

There's no question that Sarasota is beautiful. It's our favorite beach vacation destination. But most people here in TV cannot afford to live there and enjoy golf and tennis and all the other recreation we have here. Or, we just don't want to spend that much to do the simple things in life, like go for a ride on the golf cart with our dog.

[senior citizen]

Back in the early 1980's I attended a continuing education course at a resort hotel on Longboat Key. Whenever I left the hotel and went out on the beach I started to get a strange tickling in my throat, develop some nasal congestion and cough some. The nearer I got to the water the worse my cough and congestion became. Very near the water is was almost impossible for me to breath, much less inhale a really deep breath. Welcome to the Red Tide. After I returned home I did develop pneumonia which as I look back probably got its start with the Red Tide.

The traffic on Longboat Key was very bad, it being March or April. I did spend some time in Sarasota, visiting the Ringling House and grounds, as well as some of the very hard sell timeshares just starting up. I recall one was a converted motel for which I calculated that for the cost of a a week or two's "ownership" one could probably build the place.


Definitely sounds like you were affected by the RED TIDE.
It's really a terrible feeling and does put a damper on your visit to an otherwise very nice area....

Thanks for sharing.......

[cquick]

I posted this because I just had a best friend from high school. This was not her first visit. These are her thoughts:
-Houses are like development/track homes
-Hates Fox News playing throughout the square
-Thinks parades are dumb
-Thinks golf carts are silly
-Not interested in golf
-Not interested in live music at the squares

Well, of course she wouldn't like TV! She needs to go somewhere that there are things she likes to do. There are plenty of options,really.

[senior citizen]

Well, of course she wouldn't like TV! She needs to go somewhere that there are things she likes to do. There are plenty of options,really.

If she is the artistic type, she'd love the seascapes she could paint while living in a beachfront condo or home near the coasts of Florida........

If they are into boating, ditto.........the coasts would be ideal.

Believe me, not everyone is into golf........but that said, one could live very happily in The Villages and never play golf at all (or dance in the squares for that matter)........TV has a lot else going for it.

Florida is a very huge state with plenty of options for all interests.

Exercising on the beach, going for long walks in the evening......or early morning........are just one of the things that draw people to Florida's coasts............but then again, condo living is also not for everyone....but it sure is nice to just come down and be right on the sand..........Vero Beach is very nice and does not have red tide.

[twinklesweep]

There's an interesting sub-text running all through this thread. There are many posters who seem dumbfounded as to why everyone 55+ wouldn't love TV and there must be something wrong with those who don't.

Personally I can think of lots of reasons not to be enthralled with TV. However, since YOU are here and YOU like it and are happy here, why do YOU care that everyone doesn't share your view?

Just enjoy what you've got and don't worry about why others don't share your vision.

I could not agree more! While some posts factually report what their visitors have said about their views of TV (which--positive OR negative--is certainly okay), I will never understand what seems to be insecurity and/or defensiveness on the part of others.

And at the risk of sounding unaware, what is a "B"?

[jebartle]

and love their quiet country club lifestyle, and I respect their opinion but TV "fits me to a Tee"....Before we made the move to TV (took us three trips and we were sold) I would mention TV and they would say "You want to move down to Florida with all the bugs and heat", can't argue with that BUT what they don't know is this wonderful "Village family" that I've grown to love more each day...

[graciegirl]

I could not agree more! While some posts factually report what their visitors have said about their views of TV (which--positive OR negative--is certainly okay), I will never understand what seems to be insecurity and/or defensiveness on the part of others.

And at the risk of sounding unaware, what is a "B"?

Stands for BEAST.

And some of us B's are defensive because this is our home town that we love. This is where are hearts live and our friends. Some of us were just as defensive about the places we were born and raised. It is called B-ness.

Some of us love the culture, the age of our peers, the social and political climate, the danged belly laughs that erupt everywhere. The prettyness, the sassyness, the feeling of a college campus without the classes.

Some of us can't understand WHY anyone wouldn't love this place but to be fair those people peobably were fairly positive all of their considerable successful and interesting lives.

B nice.
B sweet
B sassy
and sometimes just be a B. You deserve it.

[jtdraig]

We have friends who MUST live in the same golf community. I think they like being big ducks in a small pond.

BINGO!:BigApplause:

[gomoho]

I thought "b" was for b_ _ ch! DUH.

[Laura]

I should have sold real estate here because I have brought six couples and one single here! Only one of our friends came here and thought it was "too big." They live where there is ONE golf course, one clubhouse and nothing else to do. Different strokes, I guess.

[Cisco Kid]

My brother in law in Fl as a deep hatred for TV.
He says all you yankees have moved down here and think FL owes you a retirement.
He say's the lake he live on is 8 feet low because of the development in TV
Traffic = TV
Overcrowded stores = TV
STD's = TV
Florida housing prices =TV
Crash in construction jobs =TV
The last 2 was very detailed as to how TV sucked it all up.
It's like poking a bear.
I used a hot stick daily.
:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[gomoho]

Cisco - why don't you just bring that boy to the next Crispers luncheon and I'm sure we can set him straight.:icon_twisted:

[graciegirl]

Cisco - why don't you just bring that boy to the next Crispers luncheon and I'm sure we can set him straight.:icon_twisted:


Indeed.

[justjim]

As we heard TV past the 100,000 mark, I paused when I read it because to me it doesn't seem that big. Obviously, it's not for everyone but it is the largest planned adult retirement community in the world. We did have some friends that "passed" on TV for a community further south. It only hurt for a little while!

[CFrance]

Cisco - why don't you just bring that boy to the next Crispers luncheon and I'm sure we can set him straight.:icon_twisted:

If he survives...

[Cisco Kid]

Cisco - why don't you just bring that boy to the next Crispers luncheon and I'm sure we can set him straight.:icon_twisted:

I did catch a nice bass from his lake.

( I let him go )

[RedChariot]

When I tell my good friend from childhood about TV he refers to what I do as "forced get togethers." The fact that I go to a ladies group at the local rec center,another social club for my village at the rec center, plays and shows at The Church and Savannah Center, a dine around club, continueing ed classes at LLLC, a movie club, more restaurants than I can try (I'm tryin'), these are just forced get togethers to him. He lives 3 miles from NYC and you can see the NY skyline. He does not understand all this "palsee, walsee" stuff. He's so NJ and this is not the type socialization he is used to. It's new to me too, but it sure has been nice. I just have to try to fit in one of those 200+ exercises classes. But I want to make pine needle baskets. What is a girl to do???? He doesn't know what he's missing.

[patfla06]

We are originally from N.Y. and moved to Tampa due to a corporate transfer
15 years ago.
We came for a LSV 3 years ago and my DH hated T.V.
Why? He wasn't mentally ready to be "retired".
We have been to a lot of 55 communities in FL.
I told him we needed to revisit The Villages 2 months ago.
Result? We just bought a spec house in Gilchrist and my DH
CANNOT wait to sell our house and move to T.V.

So sometimes I wonder if it's just the timing?

[islandgal]

I wonder why so many people forget the beautiful beaches in Georgia and South Carolina?

[CFrance]

I wonder why so many people forget the beautiful beaches in Georgia and South Carolina?

How do you mean "forget"? I remember them! SC has the BEST ocean waves. Places like Edisto Beach are just lovely. And NC... Cape Hatteras and the Outer Banks... (drool). If I won the lottery, I would have a summer home there.

[gomoho]

I wonder why so many people forget the beautiful beaches in Georgia and South Carolina?

I don't think it is a matter of forgetting them but rather a desire to be retired somewhere that there is more to do than walk the beach.

[Roaddog53]

I don't think it is a matter of forgetting them but rather a desire to be retired somewhere that there is more to do than walk the beach.

:agree:
We know others that live on the beach in Tampa area. They love the beach but as he says, one can only sit there so long. Sure there is the night life, but not all the other activities. We like the idea of living here, and than driving the hour to so many beaches of choice on either coast for the day when we feel we need a beach fix.

[LndLocked]

"They love the beach but as he says, one can only sit there so long"

The only time I ever sat on it was early am and late pm, as their is no better way to begin or end a day. Any other time, I am walking on it (preferably with my goober dog), jogging on it, riding bike on it, working to protect it or best of all, crossing it to swim in mother ocean (preferably with surfboard under arm!)

I do know that I miss it being a part of my daily life more than I can express.

[patfla06]

We have loved living in Tampa but the TRAFFIC
is a nightmare. We live by Univ. South Florida
and there are 40,000+ kids driving (speeding)
around us.

Taxes are high, congestion, etc.
We feel like NY/NJ followed us here.

Can't wait to move to T.V.

And although we're closer to the beaches,
my beach experience is SPF 50 and sitting
under an umbrella!

[vito711]

Yes, Some people would not move out of their comfort zone in small town American, or move away from family, like I did. Being Italian, I am the black sheep of the family for moving away 50 years ago.

[ajdeck]

kit, I think you'll find some people who won't/don't like the physical size of TV - the place IS humongous compared to any other 55+ community. It's certainly not the place for everyone...............otherwise all of the other 55+ communities would be vacant! :D

Bill :)

Would like but too big now and warmer in North Fort Myers area.

Also, got a lot more for money and have everything we need at our
finger tips (but not right in our 55 community which save $$).

All and all very happy we decided on this area, but that is just
our opinion.

[nanci2539]

Has anyone had friends/family who didn't like The Villages?

We had friends visit the Villages and they couldn't stand the congestion, waiting in restaurants, etc. They ended up moving to the Lakes at Mt Dora. Lovely home, pretty setting but they don't have the amenities we have. But to each their own. I've heard many people remark that if they want congestion and having to wait in line, they can get that up north!

[gomoho]

I love Mt Dora and could probably be happy living there if I could find something affordable on the lake and spend my days in a pontoon with DH and my fur friends!

[ilovetv]

I really don't see this "congestion" thing. If we see a line at Publix or at a restaurant, we wait awhile and do that later. It's not life-altering to change the routine a bit.

The busyness ends in April and doesn't kick in again till January. Spring-Summer-Fall are fantastic here.....far fewer bugs/mosquitos than up north in the midwest (have never seen black flies nor horseflies here in TV); more breezes, very quick heavy rainfalls in the afternoons, and sometimes cooler temps in July and August than up north.

[CFrance]

I really don't see this "congestion" thing. If we see a line at Publix or at a restaurant, we wait awhile and do that later. It's not life-altering to change the routine a bit.

The busyness ends in April and doesn't kick in again till January. Spring-Summer-Fall are fantastic here.....far fewer bugs/mosquitos than up north in the midwest (have never seen black flies nor horseflies here in TV); more breezes, very quick heavy rainfalls in the afternoons, and sometimes cooler temps in July and August than up north.

I agree with you. We have found work-arounds to most line problems. We have found places to grocery shop and eat outside of TV, but close by, that aren't very crowded. Three years living in north Jersey taught us what a line really is. Nothing against North Jersey--it's just very crowded.

The only line we stand in in the winter months is the pickleball line. And that keeps moving.

I do miss seeing the water, but the water is not affordable for us, and there's not as much to do. We really enjoy it here.