This is a major life change. I’ve taken a lot of time to really think about it. Come up with every question I can and research as much as possible. I’ve reviewed this with friends and asked for advice. I may be missing something, but I’m aware of the risks and have an idea of the challenges. To this end answers to the big ones.
- Money: I initially discounted the concept as an ultra-wealthy extravagance. However, the reality is that it’s not too different from living in an expensive american city like New York or San Francisco. Between the value of my house, business income and my eventual investment draws it is workable. In the long run I will need to increase my income or plan to leave the boat, but I’ll be set for a fair wile.
- Timing: The MV Narrative is in the final design phase (and I’ve had input!) and construction is expected to begin this year(’22). Launching late ’24. However, I’m expecting that to be at least ’25 at this point due to war and global disruptions.
- Animals and people: While it would be possible for Cinnamon to go with me, it’s unlikely she will still be with us. I have a delaying plan if needed. There are people I’ll miss in AZ, but my life has been virtual for decades, I’ll adjust. Also, I intend to visit when we are in North America. Additionally….I can have visitors. 🙂
- Environmentalism: I don’t want to trade luxury for environmental costs. Doing better is one of the things that attracted me to this. The MV Narrative is designed to be as green as possible. It will travel slow and not as often, it uses special fuel, there are energy capture systems, growing some of our own food, smart heating/cooling and a plethora of innovative things. I suppose many of us no longer owning cars or homes will help too.
- Burning Man: I won’t say never, but I don’t intent to go to the main burn. I’ll probably end up at a regional, but what I’m hoping for is to make it to burns across the globe. Not to mention I’ll be reaching out to local burner communities as I travel.
That’s it!
To start I’m going to use this blog to learn to do it, automate as much as possible and to document the changes. So at first it will be downsizing and moving.