insider.com/66bcefac5da406397bf5f78f?format=jpeg” height=”4032″ width=”3024″ alt=”Stella Guan with her parents in front of a clay structure in China” />Photo by Stella Guan
- Stella Guan, 34, has been exploring different countries as a digital nomad for the past year.
- Her parents, both over 60, retired last year and chose to travel with her for the summer.
- The family settled in a rural area of China where monthly rents can be as low as $90.
This narrative is based on insights from Stella Guan, a 34-year-old graphic designer, educator, and digital nomad retreat facilitator, discussing her experience living alongside her retired parents in China. The piece has been condensed for clarity and brevity.
A New Chapter: Living Abroad Together
I embarked on my digital nomad journey almost spontaneously. Similarly, this recent living arrangement came about without much forethought.
With my parents now enjoying their retirement phase through which they can embrace traveling freely without constraints—having lived near Hong Kong in Guangdong Province—they decided it was high time to explore the world beyond their familiar surroundings. They were fortunate enough to be physically active and vibrant enough not to have mobility challenges; thus they packed their bags last year aiming for more adventures.
Aspirations Inspired by Peers
My mother spent years working at a clothing company while my father was an engineer. In China’s work culture, women often retire earlier than men; hence she had patiently waited for my dad to reach retirement age before pursuing travel aspirations together.
Their interest wasn’t merely rooted in being inspired by me; instead they were heavily influenced by other retirees of similar age experiencing exciting journeys shared across social media platforms. This newfound inspiration prompted them into action as they envisioned themselves traveling around various destinations too.
Selecting Yunnan Province: A Serene Locale
Photo credit: Stella Guan
This June marked our move into the breathtaking rural region of Yunnan.
The diverse natural beauty here captivates me—the mountains are plentiful but comfortable enough so that you don’t feel overwhelmed while breathing fresh mountain air. As someone who adores mountainous landscapes reminiscent of California’s hillsides—I find even better weather variations awaiting us here!
An Unbeatable Cost of Living: Dining & Housing Expenses
The affordability factor within this area astonishes me—it truly operates at nearly half the cost compared with major city lifestyles elsewhere!
Astonishingly affordable! Just yesterday during our neighborhood strolls we encountered apartments whose rents displayed incredible rates—one person mentioned that he pays only around ¥600 (approximately $90) monthly for his modest one-bedroom unit!
Currently combined our family’s total rental expense remains under $200 monthly between two furnished apartments adorned excellently suited towards comfort seeking individuals among locals presenting flavorful meals available starting from just $1-$2 per delicious bowl!
Mornings Spent at Local Markets While I Work Remotely
< figure >< img src = " https://i.insider.com/66bcf04c955b01c3294eab8b?format=jpeg " height = "3024 " width = "4032 " alt = { 'Guan along side mother within lively marketplace'} /> < figcaption >During morning outings she visits local markets prior work hours.< p class =' copyright '> By courtesy ; Stella guan< / p >< / figcaption >They choose mornings primarily exploring markets purchasing groceries every day basis otherwise indulging leisurely activities together later part s . My mom thoroughly enjoys haggling prices which often occupies entertaining chats between vendors finding fresh produce whereas Dad dutifully drives around assisting albeit less involved compared!
Focusing primarily on completing tasks early afternoon ending soon afterward invoking relaxation vibes surrounding town folks embracing laid-back lifestyles encourages me catching quality time thereafter sharing joyous experiences surrounded congenial atmosphere rejuvenating our closeness .
< strong > Weekend Excursions & Making Memories
We recently concluded delightful short trips exploring intriguing locales nearby–like attending spectacular festival celebratory fire events showcasing art featuring unique architecture unfolding wondrous stories reflected craftsmanship deriving love seen community spirit infused throughout celebration! I greatly encourage other families pursuing such opportunities—they’re rare chances connecting intimately with beloved ones crossed spans existence areas.
Time shared post-retirement imparts irreplaceable moments—an undeniable soul enriching experience magnifying essentiality fortify bonds established alongside engaging deserved pure quality-filled interaction moments despite physical limitations present elderly parent characteristics however skepticism should dissolve leading invigorating unity stretching across varied dimensions!
