When our son turned 13 I asked what he wanted for Christmas that year. He shrugged. I thought about it and said, "Well then, instead of spending hundreds of dollars on gifts that nobody really cares about, why don't we go away for the week of Christmas?" Thus, our best family tradition was born. I don't know if I could name any gifts I ever received, but those memories of us traveling as a family and spending the holiday week together every year will never be forgotten. We're gearing up for a trip to Florida this Christmas and we're all looking forward to it. My long-winded point is, experiences over things wins every time.
Post divorce I had amazing trips building houses overseas with a charity and taking culinary tours with my daughter. Literally some of my fondest memories. And, I’m glad I did them while I was younger. I experienced the cultures in the countries I visited in a far deeper and more intimate manner. Don’t wait. And adventure more. The older you get the harder it can be to do some of these things.
You make a lot of good points, many I totally agree with. But, many people I know (unlike me) don't have the travel mindset, they prefer an actual holiday, esp if 1. They struggle with anxiety about visiting new places, picky eaters etc etc 2. They feel they deserve a little bit of luxury now again. 3. They have impairments or disabilities that prevent them from travelling easily around the world, esp in places like India that from my experience are not always particularly disability friendly 4. Cheapest isn't always best. My wife for example has a chronic back condition and we would rather pay that little bit more for a bigger more comfortable seat on a plane if going long haul or on an extended train journey so she isn't doubled up in agony when we arrive I totally get your point about the Tee shirt, but if it makes him happy, is that wrong? I personally don't see the attraction of cruise ships, but if it makes you happy, and makes you enjoy your life more, that's what matters to me Thought provoking video that and I much prefer the unscripted style. Thanks
New to the channel - I love your data driven videos but really loved this one off the cuff. You have great insights and it got me to think about things differently however I'm 65 and not quite ready to retire so I'm in a different stage of life. Will check out the travel channel as well... Thanks!
I like this format, happy to have more. Your content is very inspiring and my wife and I are well on our way to reaching FIRE. Spending money on things now feels ridiculous and a waste of opportunity to actually do something worthwhile. We’re unlikely to travel much, but we’ll have the time and money to volunteer and hopefully help others improve their lives. Can’t wait 😊
Last summer I went on a hike with a rambling group. It was brewing up to be a hot sunny day, no kidding. I pulled out a tube of ALDI factor 50 and applied it. Shortly after this other guy pulled out a spray bottle of the finest factor 50 money can buy. He then proceeded to spray his arms with it. Me and another person gave a knowing look to each other. Not sure what percentage of the spray actually went on his arms. Ten percent (or less!). What a ********* waste!
Great content. I always enjoy watching your videos whether here or on your other channel. I think that part of the “charm” is the sense that we are talking one-on-one. If you’re ever headed to southern Utah ( or Las Vegas) let us know. We’d love to have a coffee or visit some of the local parks, Valley of Fire, Zion NP, Bryce Canyon NP, … I agree with your way of looking at the world. We could buy new cars but our RV is 20 years old, and our two cars are over 12 years old. We stay as cheaply as is safe / practical. I do believe it leads to a richer life. But have also found that overly frugal leads to missing out on some things. There needs to be a balance and balance is always difficult.
Thanks Charles. We do try to make our videos more of a conversation between you and us. Really appreciate that feedback. We are going to be in Vegas next week but that's likely too soon for you to get there. We'll be back though. All the best.
Good video, but I don't think it's about showing poor. Is about maturity and knowing what you want out of life. I am older than you I would agree that cruising and resorts can get boring.
Wasting money (buying something you don't actually value) is a waste. Figuring out your actual values early on makes deciding what and what not to spend your money on so much easier.
Do you have to rough it to adventure? Genuine question, because having "made it" I've grown quite fond of nice hotels (with comfy beds, nice showers, gyms, pools, etc.), taking cars instead of public transportation, eating at restaurants instead of street food, etc. I haven't yet made the leap to business class long haul flights, but I'm semi planning to.
Yes! Actually this would be a great idea for a video. I'll take a copy of your comment and reply in a video. I thought exactly the same as you before we started travelling. Hopefully you'll find its a far better experience than you could imagine. Thanks so much for this!
This comment was made to Appease RUclips algorithm God 😳 Interesting outlook on life and I have to say normally when I go to a resort that appears to be a prisoner in disguise I always jump on the local transport and go visiting the nearest towns regardless of whether or not I’ve paid all inclusive, I did notice, however when I was in Mexico at one of those resorts and explained to an American couple that we’ve got to know what we intended to do the next day they were rather Trient about leaving the resort. Does this say something about American culture and the way they live or not? Having watched several of your videos now, I have to say that I appreciate the unscripted one’s far more than the scripted ones you create For whatever reason they seem to come across a lot more genuine than (forgive me for saying so) bad puns, so yes please do continue to just reel off your thoughts on whatever subject you appear to want to talk about this week
Thank you for appeasing the algorithm 😃 Pleased you prefer this style, this is how they will be from now on. No guarantees that there won't be bad puns though.... i have an awful sense of humour.
Yes we will. We are waiting on the TV show being aired before we do. We have a whole series of videos planned. There has been a delay in the TV show. Looking forward to that getting out there in the world.
8:53 I think it’s fair to say a good majority of your audience. I’ll very much like me and a bloody skinflints. I’ve never apart from one car when I was young took HP out. I never buy anything brand named whatsoever and if I do get a new car to me, it’s always at least 3 to 4 years old as far as electrical goods are concerned as you say they always come down in price the next year so wait till then
Honestly? I did not notice significant differences in style in this video, very similar it struck me That said, I like that style! Agree with the thrust of the video. I am guilty as hell of buying designer shirts these days, but in mitigation I have, in the main, followed the advice given here all my life and am therefore now in a position to be profligate in some ways like this particular example. Sensible in most other ways Never ever really made those types of mistakes you mention
That is also a very useful point about value and cost. If you can more than afford something and have diagnosing independence then you can enjoy guilt free.
I find this really patronising and very ironic. Just because you don’t enjoy fashion it doesn’t mean its a concept without value. Many would argue that fashion is a phenomenon of real cultural worth that may happen to be beyond your appreciation. The irony of your proposition is that you are sitting on a luxury cruise liner. Why judge? Where is your empathy?
It was an opinion. I think I mentioned in the video that i can't speak for others but that i can speak to the younger Neil and Sarah. I certainly don't expect everyone to agree with my opinion. Thanks for the comment, discourse is good 👍
When our son turned 13 I asked what he wanted for Christmas that year. He shrugged. I thought about it and said, "Well then, instead of spending hundreds of dollars on gifts that nobody really cares about, why don't we go away for the week of Christmas?" Thus, our best family tradition was born. I don't know if I could name any gifts I ever received, but those memories of us traveling as a family and spending the holiday week together every year will never be forgotten. We're gearing up for a trip to Florida this Christmas and we're all looking forward to it. My long-winded point is, experiences over things wins every time.
Totally Mel. I wish my parents did that with me when i was younger. Experiences are memorable.
Thanks Mel.
I like this style because it's more conversational as opposed to a more scripted narrative.
Thank you. This is helping me a lot.
Before you buy, always ask, "What could I sell this for tomorrow at a garage sale?" Great video!
Great point! I like that a lot.
Sadly the answer is not nearly what you paid for it.
Post divorce I had amazing trips building houses overseas with a charity and taking culinary tours with my daughter. Literally some of my fondest memories. And, I’m glad I did them while I was younger. I experienced the cultures in the countries I visited in a far deeper and more intimate manner. Don’t wait. And adventure more. The older you get the harder it can be to do some of these things.
Yes, yes, yes Dorothy! You'll have those memories forever. Resort vacations are instantly forgettable.
You make a lot of good points, many I totally agree with. But, many people I know (unlike me) don't have the travel mindset, they prefer an actual holiday, esp if
1. They struggle with anxiety about visiting new places, picky eaters etc etc
2. They feel they deserve a little bit of luxury now again.
3. They have impairments or disabilities that prevent them from travelling easily around the world, esp in places like India that from my experience are not always particularly disability friendly
4. Cheapest isn't always best. My wife for example has a chronic back condition and we would rather pay that little bit more for a bigger more comfortable seat on a plane if going long haul or on an extended train journey so she isn't doubled up in agony when we arrive
I totally get your point about the Tee shirt, but if it makes him happy, is that wrong? I personally don't see the attraction of cruise ships, but if it makes you happy, and makes you enjoy your life more, that's what matters to me
Thought provoking video that and I much prefer the unscripted style. Thanks
Another great video. Scripted or non spirited, I like both. If I had to choose I’d probably steer to the latter.
Thanks Carly! That's really helpful. Always enjoy getting your comments 👍
We enjoyed the rant style Neil.
Ahhh thank you guys!
Really like this video, your reflections and hindsight give me food for thought about real adventures and further discovery 🙂
Thanks Kath. Pleased you found it interesting.
New to the channel - I love your data driven videos but really loved this one off the cuff. You have great insights and it got me to think about things differently however I'm 65 and not quite ready to retire so I'm in a different stage of life. Will check out the travel channel as well... Thanks!
Thank you Kathy. Hope you like our travel channel too.
Great content.Thanks
Glad you liked it!
I like this format, happy to have more. Your content is very inspiring and my wife and I are well on our way to reaching FIRE. Spending money on things now feels ridiculous and a waste of opportunity to actually do something worthwhile. We’re unlikely to travel much, but we’ll have the time and money to volunteer and hopefully help others improve their lives. Can’t wait 😊
That's great Jagman. Travel or not, you are building a life where you control what you do, not somd Brand Manager.
Last summer I went on a hike with a rambling group. It was brewing up to be a hot sunny day, no kidding. I pulled out a tube of ALDI factor 50 and applied it. Shortly after this other guy pulled out a spray bottle of the finest factor 50 money can buy. He then proceeded to spray his arms with it. Me and another person gave a knowing look to each other. Not sure what percentage of the spray actually went on his arms. Ten percent (or less!). What a ********* waste!
Haha that's a great example! Aldi for the win 🏆
Great content. I always enjoy watching your videos whether here or on your other channel. I think that part of the “charm” is the sense that we are talking one-on-one. If you’re ever headed to southern Utah ( or Las Vegas) let us know. We’d love to have a coffee or visit some of the local parks, Valley of Fire, Zion NP, Bryce Canyon NP, …
I agree with your way of looking at the world. We could buy new cars but our RV is 20 years old, and our two cars are over 12 years old. We stay as cheaply as is safe / practical. I do believe it leads to a richer life. But have also found that overly frugal leads to missing out on some things. There needs to be a balance and balance is always difficult.
Thanks Charles. We do try to make our videos more of a conversation between you and us. Really appreciate that feedback.
We are going to be in Vegas next week but that's likely too soon for you to get there. We'll be back though.
All the best.
Words of wisdom separate the needs from the wants. It's difficult though I know we all have guilty pleasures.
Yes that is really the first step isn't it, then you can build.
Thanks as ever. Love having you here.
Good video, but I don't think it's about showing poor.
Is about maturity and knowing what you want out of life.
I am older than you I would agree that cruising and resorts can get boring.
Absolutely. Get out and adventure eh.
Wasting money (buying something you don't actually value) is a waste. Figuring out your actual values early on makes deciding what and what not to spend your money on so much easier.
Really good point Libby. If you know your values, hit spending will surely follow.
Nice bit of life conversation therapy, its good to just air it off without a script and just say it how it is.
Thank you. This is really helpful.
I really like this style video. Thanks
Glad you liked it!
Do you have to rough it to adventure? Genuine question, because having "made it" I've grown quite fond of nice hotels (with comfy beds, nice showers, gyms, pools, etc.), taking cars instead of public transportation, eating at restaurants instead of street food, etc. I haven't yet made the leap to business class long haul flights, but I'm semi planning to.
Yes! Actually this would be a great idea for a video. I'll take a copy of your comment and reply in a video.
I thought exactly the same as you before we started travelling. Hopefully you'll find its a far better experience than you could imagine.
Thanks so much for this!
No problem, I am poor....
This comment was made to Appease RUclips algorithm God 😳
Interesting outlook on life and I have to say normally when I go to a resort that appears to be a prisoner in disguise I always jump on the local transport and go visiting the nearest towns regardless of whether or not I’ve paid all inclusive, I did notice, however when I was in Mexico at one of those resorts and explained to an American couple that we’ve got to know what we intended to do the next day they were rather Trient about leaving the resort. Does this say something about American culture and the way they live or not?
Having watched several of your videos now, I have to say that I appreciate the unscripted one’s far more than the scripted ones you create For whatever reason they seem to come across a lot more genuine than (forgive me for saying so) bad puns, so yes please do continue to just reel off your thoughts on whatever subject you appear to want to talk about this week
Thank you for appeasing the algorithm 😃
Pleased you prefer this style, this is how they will be from now on. No guarantees that there won't be bad puns though.... i have an awful sense of humour.
Are you going to tell us where your property in Spain is in 2025...
Yes we will. We are waiting on the TV show being aired before we do. We have a whole series of videos planned. There has been a delay in the TV show. Looking forward to that getting out there in the world.
8:53 I think it’s fair to say a good majority of your audience. I’ll very much like me and a bloody skinflints. I’ve never apart from one car when I was young took HP out. I never buy anything brand named whatsoever and if I do get a new car to me, it’s always at least 3 to 4 years old as far as electrical goods are concerned as you say they always come down in price the next year so wait till then
Skinflint, haha if I didn't know you were British, I do now 😃.
We're the same. Spending money is difficult to do for us. Value always comes first.
Honestly? I did not notice significant differences in style in this video, very similar it struck me
That said, I like that style!
Agree with the thrust of the video. I am guilty as hell of buying designer shirts these days, but in mitigation I have, in the main, followed the advice given here all my life and am therefore now in a position to be profligate in some ways like this particular example. Sensible in most other ways
Never ever really made those types of mistakes you mention
That is also a very useful point about value and cost. If you can more than afford something and have diagnosing independence then you can enjoy guilt free.
I find this really patronising and very ironic. Just because you don’t enjoy fashion it doesn’t mean its a concept without value. Many would argue that fashion is a phenomenon of real cultural worth that may happen to be beyond your appreciation. The irony of your proposition is that you are sitting on a luxury cruise liner. Why judge? Where is your empathy?
It was an opinion. I think I mentioned in the video that i can't speak for others but that i can speak to the younger Neil and Sarah.
I certainly don't expect everyone to agree with my opinion. Thanks for the comment, discourse is good 👍
The best thing about money is it gives you security and freedom . Don't waste those things on stupid cars !
Yes, money should but freedom, not more stuff.
I like the tangents. I've been known to go on a few myself. Love your content