In the back of your mind you're thinking you would love to quit your job, sell your house, and hit the road with your family. It would be wonderful to travel the world with your children, exploring the Egyptian pyramids, the Taj Majal, and maybe even make it to Timbuktu. Long term family travel may be more realistic than you think.
But then reality pulls you back - you need to be a 'responsible' parent and work 9 - 5 and take the kids to soccer practice in the evenings, Or do you really? Traveling as a family can be a fantastic experience for all members of the family - regardless of the age. For parents, the opportunity to spend time with your children rather than behind a desk is a gift. For children, the opportunity to see the world and spend their short childhood with their parents is the best gift any parent can give them.
Long term travel isn't as expensive as you probably think it is. While you are thinking there is no way you could possibly quit your job and afford to travel, you might be surprised to learn just how cheaply you can travel for. We, as a family of four, are currently traveling the world on our bicycles for about $1500 per month. That's less than $20,000 per year! We've rented out our house, which pays for about half of our expenses. The remainder comes from interest on our retirement account and our website.
You, too, can ditch the normal, expected path through life to make your own way if you want. Take some time to research options and talk with others who have made the transition. There are as many ways to be a nomadic family as there are families wanting to do it. Live your dreams today!
Nancy Sathre-Vogel has years of personal experience with long term family travel. She's posted financial tips and advice on her website, www.familyonbikes.org
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