WE SOLD (almost) EVERYTHING & MOVED TO FLORIDA

[@Explorcation]

Hi everyone 👋 thank you so much for listening to our experience moving to Florida. If there are any Florida related topics you would like to see us cover on our channel...or if you have questions about our experience moving to and living in Florida, please leave them in the comments. We always appreciate viewer feedback! If you enjoyed this video be sure to give it a like, any engagement helps our channel to be shown to more people and grow 💕🙏

[@elizabeth.annrose]

I believe I saw your video on Crystal River; we love it here! I bet you are glad to be in Florida these days,...

[@adamd5530]

Hurricane prep video?

[@tedmarley4341]

How is the weather?

[@Explorcation]

@@elizabeth.annrose so glad you enjoy it, we always have such a great time when visiting Crystal River! Thanks for watching 😊

[@Explorcation]

@@adamd5530 that is a great suggestion. We did a quick one for Ian but may do a more in-depth one in the future.

[@heavyd777]

I did the same sold the house and almost everything in it and moved here in 2005. Found the love of my life here and got married on the beach. I wouldn't live anywhere else. The sun, the sand, the wildlife, the parks, the people. It's paradise! Now my brother, his wife and my cousins are moving here as well.

[@Explorcation]

We've been hearing from so many people that have similar stories to ours, which is awesome. Like you, we've had some family follow us down... And hopefully more to come!

[@emrekeskin412]

which area ?

[@dante5622]

Vote Republican 🔴🔴🔴

[@EllieM_Travels]

People talk about not having to drive in the snow, but driving in Florida’s torrential downpours can be just as dangerous and stressful.

[@Explorcation]

We agree 100%.Those downpours are no joke!

[@patrickmanasco8772]

Or worse…literally can’t see shit and hydroplaning

[@Fourwindsofsuccess]

Hurricanes are dangerous than blizzards. Let them all keep It up.

[@LucasWorldTravel]

Wow! You guys were living dangerously! Love how you stepped out on faith sold the house and figured out everything else as you went. Proof that you don't need to overplan. I also love how you guys pack light and live with so much freedom. Very inspiring!

[@Explorcation]

Yes, it was definitely a bit of a leap of faith, but looking back 9 years later everything sure did work out well!

[@joegrapes9121]

I’m from upstate NY and moved to Sarasota after retiring. I have friends and family all over the state so I’m no stranger to Florida. I’ve found that I can’t swim in the ocean because the sharks will eat me, I can’t swim in the lakes her because the gators will eat me, I can’t let my kids run around the woods here because of the poisonous snakes and the nasty wild pigs, I can’t walk around my back yard bare foot because of the fire ants, I have to worry about the mosquitoes giving me malaria and the armadillos giving me leprosy. I didn’t need to worry about any of that up north. Yes, we had snow storms but they didn’t destroy my house and I didn’t need to get snow insurance. So why again is Florida paradise? 😂😂😂. Please don’t take this comment seriously, I’m just being funny. (Although it’s all true)

[@Explorcation]

LOL yes mostly true indeed. You just have to replace the "Sharks/Gators WILL eat me" with "Sharks/Gators WILL PROBABLY eat me". There's always a chance you won't get eaten, however small of a chance it may be 😂

[@adventuresfloridatothailan5217]

I'm selling everything & moving to Thailand. Bradenton,fl. to Phuket

[@Explorcation]

Wow, congratulations! When are you planning to make the big move?

[@edwardhamm5535]

Grew up in Florida. Will never go back...there are only bad ideas here...few good jobs.

[@greg33770]

Yep, did the same thing 27 years ago ! From upstate NY ! Been here ever since !

[@Explorcation]

We hope we're still here in 27 years Greg... if not full time, at least as snow birds!

[@nancychandler3673]

I love Florida. Thinking of moving there once DeathSantis is gone. Then Florida will truly be a paradise. 🙏

[@carlo6912]

Your move proves that in life you'll regret more the things you didn't do than the things you did. Congratulations for having the courage to follow your dreams. Truly amazing how little we need to be happy.

[@Explorcation]

So true, Carl. Sometimes we almost feel like the less we have, the happier we are. Or the less we own, anyway. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@RealEstateHappens]

Well said! ☮️✌️☮️

[@MrLeonightis]

Moved down here to Bradenton , howdy neighbor lol, love it down here !

[@Explorcation]

Hello. So happy to hear you're enjoying it down here!

[@peteryamaha6426]

I can understand how you can really feel about your move. I also felt the same way in 1993 when I moved to the St. Pete (Largo) area. However, after living there over 26 years, the regrets caught up and all of the things except for the weather that i relished, went away. Cost of living, traffic, attitudes etc. prevailed and we moved to S.C. where all of the old positives still exist. Compassion, caring, politeness, cost of living etc, etc. are here. Oh, yeah we will still get some cold weather, but it kills the bugs and keeps the people that clutter the roads away.

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, Peter. We find the traffic in St. Pete to actually be pretty good compared to most other Florida cities, but I'm sure it's still bad compared to any city in South Carolina. We've always found the people to generally be quite nice, and we both grew up in the midwest where people are known for being nice. That being said, maybe South Carolina people are on a whole other level of niceness. One thing we definitely can agree with is that the cost of living in St. Pete is getting high. Someday we may have to find a less expensive place to live as well. What part of South Carolina did you move to? We've only spent a little time in South Carolina (a day in Greenville)... but we did really enjoy the little time there that we had.

[@Falla76]

It’s doubtful you’ll get a response from “Peter.” Peter is a real estate agent from South Carolina who’s been talking all kinds of trash about the state of Florida to drum up business in his state. Rs

[@peteryamaha6426]

@@Falla76 You are incorrect in every way. Real estate agent, nope just a retiree who decided not to deal with the rising costs the increasing traffic congestion and the attitudes of some of the latest new residents. The decision to locate.was our decision alone without any outside influence. Bless those that want/have to stay in Florida and deal with all of the changes. The price of the average 3 bedroom house surrounded by a 6 foot fence in a decent neighborhood $500.00 REALLY and taxes and insurance that are ridiculous. If that suits you l am happy for you but dont assume that what you know about us is correct. It's best if you don't open your mouth only to have to put your foot in it

[@jamesblanton3744]

I’m one of those rare Florida natives and love my state and welcome everyone

[@Explorcation]

We wish there were more like you, James! Thanks so much for watching.

[@jeannestark6293]

I’ve been here 50 years and there’s a lot of ins and outs that you don’t think about I don’t think about. I went up north once I was in a culture shock. Don’t make a big deal out of the heat it happens MoveOn don’t make a big deal of the rain it happens move on if you need trauma help get it then move on

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, Jeanne.

[@gladysgriffin7347]

How nice to see the view of the Giralda at "The Plaza" and J C Nichols Memorial Fountain.

[@Explorcation]

It's definitely a great view! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment, Gladys!

[@bradleyrupska4988]

Heather and I have pretty much the same stories! We lived in Terre Haute Indiana. I am a industrial electrician. Heather works for a hospital corporation that owns over fifty hospitals in Florida. It took me several years to talk her into moving to Florida. She had been working in a hospital position that she was not using her bachelor's degree! Heather accepted a joc in St Petersburg Florida using her degree. That meant that should would be making what had been making in Indiana. I had to take a twenty percent pay cut. After fours years we are doing well down here! Our homes value in northwest St Petersburg has risen over two hundred percent!!! We live in the Jungle Terrace neighborhood!!! We Love It!!!!!!

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for sharing your story, Brad. We are happy to hear that things have worked out so well for you down here in Florida.

[@dingdong6005]

You guys are so lucky !! I want to move from Chicago but I guess I’m stuck because my wife don’t want to move!!

[@real_airgot]

Just curious how much do you make as an electrician? I live in Indiana and I wanna work in the electrical field but I’m not sure I can live comfortably or even more than that in Florida with the wages

[@brodwight7746]

I’m from Florida Polk,County I really enjoy going everytime I go visit where I’m from.because it’s a Island living in Florida mangoes on the trees and avocados on the trees ect island 🏝️ life

[@Explorcation]

We love all the tropical fruits that grow hear in Florida as well!

[@danielrothe3902]

How often around your home have you had snake issues,?

[@Explorcation]

We had a striped snake of some sort in our pool once when we lived in Sarasota. Thankfully we researched it and it wasn't poisonous. It was also quite common to see black racer snakes in our back yard, but they are not poisonous and are very afraid of people and are known to keep rodents away so we were happy to have them around! Overall snakes were not a problem.

[@danielrothe3902]

You are white collar people do you see Industry or trade type jobs in that area ?

[@Explorcation]

Yes, we definitely see a good amount of "now hiring" signs around here. Unemployment rate is still extremely low in this area also. Thanks for watching, Daniel.

[@SaltyDawg71]

One of the reasons I love FL is because it *IS* flat! 🤣I took up running and riding my bike because it was so fun on flat land! Oh well, to each his own! If you want wide open spaces, go out on the Gulf! That's as wide as any! 😃

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, the flatness does have it's advantages. We love it when biking as well. Ultimately we prefer hiking to biking though, which is the main reason we miss having hills!

[@handsome526]

Alligators, 41 species of snakes, tornadoes, hurricane's, and humidity no thanks

[@Explorcation]

Honestly the tornadoes here are nothing (at least compared to those in the midwest), but everything else you mention is legit. It's definitely not for everyone!

[@johnhill2978]

I have been watching your videos for a few months, love them, and I just came across this one. My wife and I are looking at moving to the Tampa area and we are taking a trip next month, September, to look at different neighborhoods that might be comparable to south Overland Park/Olathe. If you have any suggestions or we could chat, that would be great. Also, we need to find a place in Tampa/St. Pete/Clearwater to watch Chiefs games. We have been to Glory Days. Thank you so much.

[@Explorcation]

We've always heard that Glory Days Grill in St Pete is a great spot to catch a Chiefs game. We haven't caught on there yet, but probably will sometime this fall! There's a lot of really new, nicer construction areas in the Palmetto area (where we currently live) that do somewhat remind us of Overland Park / Olathe. Might be worth looking into. Thanks so much for watching and supporting the channel!

[@boydridings9541]

I been here in Sarasota for 35 years but not happy with living here anymore to many people now kids are grown and just don’t know what I want to do still to be determined

[@Explorcation]

We can understand how you would be feeling a little too crowded in Sarasota. It's grown so fast and just doesn't seem to have the infrastructure to support it unfortunately.

[@trez2187]

Glad I ran into you guys. I'm thinking of retiring early and leaving NYC with just the shirt on my back. What's the story with flood insurance and how safe are the waterfront communities on the Gulf. Hernando Hudson down to Cape Coral? How bad is the heat and what's an average electric bill running AC? Sincerely, Doc AJ 👊🏽

[@Explorcation]

We're really glad you discovered our channel! We haven't owned a home for a few years now so we're not up to date on the flood insurance requirements, but I know it's gotten a lot more expensive since Ian. As far as I'm aware flood insurance is still only required if you are actually located within a flood zone, but you'd want to verify that. As far as the waterfront gulf communities being safe, assuming you are talking about hurricanes, I don't believe any of them are safe. Many St. Pete residents will say that the city is protected from hurricanes as we always seem to miss the big ones year after year, but I'd be nervous during hurricane season if I owned property anywhere within 50 miles of the Florida coastline. Average electric bill in the 1-BR apartments we've lived in most recently is about $90 in the summer and $40 in the winter. These are concreted buildings with brand new windows though. Older, bigger properties could be much more. I've heard some people talk about their electric bills going over $300 in the summer.

[@cherylcarlson3860]

Born and spent my whole life in the San Francisco bay area. Even 1 year ago I would have never considered moving to Florida, but now it's sounding better to get away from woke politicians trying to ruin our beautiful cities/state. One of our biggest concerns is hurricanes. Can you comment on how that has effected you?

[@Explorcation]

We haven't regretted our move to Florida once. We have been meeting a lot more California transplants here recently, but we understand how it would be hard to leave the perfect California weather. As a renter in a concrete apartment building, we don't have to stress to much about hurricanes. During the last big one (Ian), we stocked up on supplies and were prepared for a few days without electricity, but we never even lost power. When we were home owners in Sarasota, it was definitely more stressful, but in almost 10 years of living in Florida we've only experience 2 days without power due to hurricanes.

[@cherylcarlson3860]

@@Explorcation Thank you very much.

[@leanneadams2549]

Jacksonville SUCKS and is really an extension of GA and shouldn’t be included as Florida ! If the beach wasn’t here it would be mostly awful. It DOES NOT feel like Florida at all to me !! The Gulf side is much much prettier, more welcoming and better beaches. Just EVERY thing is better than Jacksonville !!

[@Explorcation]

So you're saying we shouldn't visit Jacksonville? 😂 We do appreciate your honest feedback. We actually did visit Jacksonville once, but it was almost 10 years ago (long before we even started this channel). I do remember enjoying it, but we spent most of our time on the beaches, and not in the city itself. I do remember thinking that the beaches themselves were not as pretty as the ones here on the Gulf Coast, but there were some really fun beach bars!

[@annebonny8865]

No alligators in the concrete jungles of Florida......get out in what's left of the real Florida and you will see plenty of alligators and snakes.....🐊🐍

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, we know that they are out there, and we've had no problem finding them when we are looking for them at parks in the area. We just thought we would at least occasionally see one wandering around in the city, and so far, it hasn't happened.

[@BobCarlson]

I didn’t see any mention of hurricanes in your video. I’m sure there will be an update next week. I came down in 1978 from Philly and didn’t experience a big one till Andrew. Be careful filming this week.

[@Explorcation]

haha yea! We filmed this before the threat of Ian. We actually thought about making a separate video about living in FL during hurricane season, but haven't yet. Ultimately we have been ok with the trade off of having to worry about hurricanes and NOT having to worry about snow, ice and major tornadoes. But we sure understand why some don't want to have to mess with hurricanes at all. Thankfully we have only experienced one (Irma) since we have lived in FL, Ian might end up being our second! We hope you are safe over the coming week too. We are scheduled to fly out Friday of next week, sooooo, we are really hoping we are able to get out after the storm.

[@misharleygirl1]

Thank you both so much for making your videos~ this one specifically. My husband and I relate a TON on what you’re sharing in this video. We haven’t made the leap yet, and it’s been stressful to think about pulling the trigger. But you guys make me feel like we can do it and have fun at the same time! We already have the house in Port Charlotte. It’s just taking the leap! We watch your videos over coffee on Sundays and talk about our dreams and goals ❤️

[@Explorcation]

Our pleasure. We're so glad that you found this video to be helpful and relatable! We hope you decide it's time to pull the trigger sooner than later, but you'll know when the time is right! It sure can be stressful, but big live events like this are supposed to be!

[@autobotdiva9268]

everything you did in this video to be happy is a BOOMERS worst nightmare. LMAOOOOOOO

[@Explorcation]

😂 exactly why we did it in our 30's and didn't wait until our 60's!

[@crystalcoleman8668]

I also moved here from MI about 10 yr ago . Yes its very hot here in the summer, esp this last summer!! I do get really tired of it. And the traffic , OMG awful, and yes people drive super fast. Accidents daily . I live not far from Sarasota , in a little (kinda) town called Englewood, we also have a beach , Englewood beach , Manasota , blind pass , and stumps pass , Have you guys ever been here ??? Good places to eat on the beach , and a great resturant , Farlows. Expensive , but high quality food , But not alot to do here . Then there is Dearborn st , downtown, small, but has some shops. My sister will be here in about a week , and we are going to St Pete for a couple nights . I love your vids , you guys cover it all !!!!!!!!

[@Explorcation]

Yes we love Englewood Beach (and all of Manasota). We made a video on it, but that's probably been around a couple of years back now. We even named at as our #3 beach destination in SW Florida in one of our more recent videos. We never have been to Farlow's though, so that will give us something new to experience next time we visit. Thank you so much for supporting our channel and taking the time to comment. We really do appreciate it!

[@belindadrake5134]

Thank you for such great videos & information. I moved to St Pete from Tennessee a year & a half ago. I’m living in St Pete now but lived in Gulfport my first year. Was so sad to leave that small town in a big city but moved due to rent increase. Living close to downtown has plenty of benefits too & it’s a quick drive to Gulfport. Just one more thing - my dear friend in Tennessee discovered your videos & knew way more about Gulfport than I before I even moved! I’m now a regular here too & enjoy you two so much & it’s a great resource in planning her first visit here! One thing I hope you do is cover the music scene here. The Elixer is one of my new favorites but just so many great local musicians mostly free. Also one of favorite bands is Hot Tonic. Hope you keep doing these videos for a long, long time!❤

[@Explorcation]

Thank you and your friend so much for watching 💗and for your comment. We very much enjoy the Gulfport area and do understand having to move due to increasing rent 🙁 I am sure you both won't have any trouble finding things to do when she visits. We really would like to cover the music scene more. We absolutely love live music and there are many talented musicians in the area, however that becomes a little tricky on YT with copyright. We will keep trying to find ways to include those venues when we can :). You can also follow us on IG as we do post a lot of😊 stories that include live music venues and try to highlight local musicians 🎵

[@warren010h]

Such a coincidence I found this video after watching the drive through St. Pete during the hurricane. I'm from Alabama but I've been in Overland Park Kansas for the last 6 years and the cold weather has grown off of me too. I love the St. Pete area and was initially thinking that would be my destination (not 100% sure yet, but I do know somewhere in FL will be it). Something about the south draws me back, plus being closer to my family. Since I work virtually now, really opens up the options :)

[@Explorcation]

Ahh Overland Park, brings back memories! How nice that you work virtually and have the option to relocate 💗 good luck on your move. Let us know if we can answer any questions as you are making plans/decisions on where to move. Thanks so much for watching!

[@Hermes1976]

St.Pete is over priced. The no state income tax hits you in ridiculous property tax, Car insurance and healthcare. Its crazy how Tampa Bay has increased in living cost. Traffic is horrible. and violent crime is getting crazy. I lived in South Tampa since 2011 moved from Missouri. I now live in Miami Beach. Florida used to be a great affordable place. Not any more

[@Explorcation]

It's gotten significantly more expensive and populated over the last few years, no doubt about that. We still love St Pete, but it's not the bargain that it used to be.

[@shturmovik3033]

Great video, can you contrast Sarasota with St. Pete?

[@MX-CO]

I hear That Clermont has some hills

[@Explorcation]

We have heard the same! We've only driven by on I-4, but one of these days we're gonna have to take the exit and explore a little bit!

[@TrevorATX]

awesome video, great info. I am moving down to tampa area from New York shortly and im really excited! cant wait

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much! We are excited for your upcoming move, and we hope that you enjoy living down here just as much as we do!

[@davids9520]

I half expected them to say, "We sold everything we had and moved to Florida. After three months we ran out of money, and had to move back to our old home town. Florida is expensive!"

[@Explorcation]

LOL thankfully we were only living on one income for a few weeks, and also, Florida was much less expensive back then!

[@Patrick-yh5yd]

You talk about the beaches!!!!!! Thats why you live in Florida.

[@Explorcation]

It sure is!

[@raeven63]

Sold and gave away everything that wouldn't fit in the car and moved from San Diego to Florida less than 2 years ago. Still renting because of housing market and inflation. I miss the mountains and good food. I don't like summer here. It's way too hot/humid.

[@Explorcation]

We can definitely see how you would miss the mountains and beautiful summers in SoCal. If we were to live anywhere simply based on weather and landscape, the San Diego area would probably be our spot!

[@michaelperrigo]

Wow, just found you guys. We're in Largo and have lived here... Forever lol. Didn't realize there were so many great places to eat and drink and explore around us, especially after the pandemic and being couped up. Your said you're doing meetups? Would love to take you up on that. We're getting to have someone convince us not to move to Washington lol. You sound like the right people given the Kansas snow.

[@Explorcation]

We're so happy you discovered our channel, Michael! There really are a ridiculous amount of places to eat/drink/explore around here. Yes, we plan to do a meet-up within the next few weeks. If you send us an email to [e-mail], we'll put you on our meet-up email list and will let you know as soon as we have a time and place identified.

[@brantleymoore9670]

Hey we just watched your video this video. We moved from a small boring town in North Carolina born and raised all our life to Venice Florida just south of y’all of course . We love it we praise God every day we moved . We have a similar story we sold everything from a 3/2 1500 square foot home to a 550 square foot apartment. Maybe we’ll run into y’all sometime

[@Explorcation]

We're so glad to hear that you are as happy with your decision to move to Florida as we are! If you ever do see us out and about, be sure to say hi!

[@TideKnotTravellers]

Living in a Holiday in for two weeks before moving into your apartment sounds like a really exciting time, love the free McDonald’s too! 😂 Can completely see the appeal of Florida, sunshine and beaches we love it! Never thought about the flatness aspect before but I think we’d miss the elevated green hills too. We have been caught in some crazy rain in Florida a few times, had to walk barefoot through the streets in Key West as they flooded while we were out. We’re glad to hear you have no regrets of moving, you both look so happy exploring 😊

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, we really do actually look back on those first weeks in Florida as great memories... Even though we were living in a hotel with almost no possessions. It really helped us to start realizing how little stuff we actually needed to be happy. Sunshine and beaches never really loses its appeal... And we can always hop on a short flight to see some hills!

[@edennard1]

If you want to see alligators all day and everyday.. I have the place for you ... I grew up in the southside of St.Petersburg and we actually would swim in Lake Maggorie where a large population of gators lived..now mind you this was well over 45 + years ago but nonetheless they're still there in the Lake and in a lot of ditches and storm drains thru out the neighborhood....The Gators are in more places in the city than one may think...especially on the golf courses..

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much for the tip! We love spotting gators and will definitely check this lake out soon!

[@rockywigg7882]

Try yummy house Chinese food in Tampa two of them. Good food

[@Explorcation]

We will definitely keep that in mind next time we're in Tampa. Thanks so much for the suggestion!

[@rockywigg7882]

@Explorcation welcome let me know what you think

[@snappybabby4646]

Did you really publish this just a day or so before one of the most destructive hurricane's did BILLIONS in damage?

[@Explorcation]

The day this video went live, Ian was a Tropical Storm south of Jamaica. Unfortunately over the next 5 days the strength and track changed drastically :( The path of destruction in Southwest Florida has been heartbreaking.

[@cedricross2991]

Thanks for the video guys. Me and my fiance are thinking of moving from Hawaii to somewhere else. Florida is one of the options, because of the high cost of living mainly because the Democraps destroyed Hawaii. Good luck to you both.

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much, Cedric! Unfortunately the cost of living is rising here in Florida, but primarily due to housing demand and inflation. I'm sure it's still significantly less expensive than living in Hawaii, but I'm sure you'll miss those beautiful mountains!

[@stevenjohnson8736]

@@Explorcation the hell living in Florida too many racist people living in Florida…..i rather live right here in the beautiful city of San Francisco,California……home to the most photograph bridge in the world the Golden Gate Bridge and home to Alcatraz……all then city in Florida is not as beautiful as San Francisco 😃

[@deborahahonen6949]

Haha the Rethuglicans are ruining Florida. I’ve been here for over 30 years, and it was truly Paradise early on, under Democratic governorship. Now it’s overrun with mean rednecks, low-paying jobs with outrageously high-priced housing, dangerous hurricanes, rising home insurance rates, high property taxes, teacher shortage, nurse shortage, horrible traffic, crumbling infrastructure, limits on how much medical marijuana you can buy, toxic algae blooms, environmental degradation, condo-commando rip-off HOA’s, crime, drugs, homelessness, and more. It’s getting worse every month. Wish I could leave, but my whole family is here, with jobs, in school, etc. My poor daughter runs herself ragged, working 2 jobs just to keep her head above water, in over-priced and underpaid Florida!

[@shorteststraw123]

@@stevenjohnson8736 Racism is not a problem at all in florida, it sounds like you've never been there, if anything San Francisco has to much of a theft problem, an average of over 70 car break ins this year thats insane, I literally got my van broken into that last time I was there 2 years ago and got to witness other cars having there windows shattered as well, no thanks I rather live somewhere safe and calm like south west FL, San Fran was alot nicer before 2020, I used to go all the time with friends, always had a great time, BTW it's hella expensive, weather's nice tho

[@jamiepage9046]

@@shorteststraw123unfortunately there is racism everywhere.. I have been in Florida since 1970 in the Palm harbor area.. KKK were burning crosses in their white hoods up to 1982 off of us 19.. still many good old boys here..there are good points, but we have very high crime and cost of living has skyrocketed…I think most people love it here when they haven’t grown up here.

[@kelleycosgrove9720]

Thanks, very interesting! What do you guys do for a living if I could ask? ( non KZbin jobs, that is)

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for watching, Kelley. I work on the channel full time. I worked in finance prior to that. Jamie currently works for an insurance company, but is hoping to eventually go full time on the KZbin channel as well.

[@THEalexBallesee]

I live up in Northwest Indiana by the beach (Lake Michigan) near Chicago Illinois. I go down to Southwest Florida often. My grandparents live there. Love it there. I wanna move down there so bad but with how expensive it is currently for even apartments is crazy. 3 times more to rent than here. Yet the average job seems to pay the same as here.

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, we're hopeful that eventually the average salary around here will catch up to the housing costs, but it might take a while. We hope you can find a way to move down here sooner or later, Alexa!

[@jamiecosgrove1950]

i lived in florida for 4 years, 67-70. i'm wondering do you ever go outside? no tan ......i was really dark.

[@Explorcation]

Nope... never go outside. All of the videos where we appear to be outside are actually artificial intelligence 😂

[@andreward8268]

Eventually, me and my wife will return back to South FL.

[@Explorcation]

We hope you are able to make it back sooner than, later, Andre. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment!

[@andreward8268]

@@Explorcation We miss the weather, lifestyle, food, culture and etc...

[@Explorcation]

@@andreward8268 ya know, Florida gets a lot of negative media attention, but in our experience, it also has a lot to love too, including the things you mentioned!

[@shaunah.creations9233]

My husband and I live in the st pete area. We are Florida natives. And yes I agree with allll of the negatives of Florida lol. Plus don't forget hurricane season. But we live 10 mins away from the beaches. And forget how beautiful it is when we go visit.

[@Explorcation]

Yeah hurricanes are definitely a big negative, although not as much so here as other parts of FL (knock on wood). We didn't mention them in this video because we had made another video solely devoted to hurricanes. We're glad you found our channel and appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@tituspullo3946]

Y'all's story has so many similarities to when me and my girl moved to Austin. (Same year, too!). Instead of a Holiday Inn, I think it was a Motel 1 lol.

[@Explorcation]

That's awesome. We hope you are as happy with your decision to move as we are with ours!

[@michaelvitale4029]

Sold most of our large heavy stuff last month, moving there in a couple of weeks. Can’t wait.

[@Explorcation]

Woohooo! Congrats on taking the leap, Michael! I hope you are as happy with your decision in 9 years as we were!

[@anthonyvalenti9093]

You did not mention hurricanes during your nine years. I lived through two on the east coast. Hurricane Wilma in 2006 destroyed my condo. Something to consider.

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, we intentionally omitted hurricanes because we had planned a separate video specifically dedicated to hurricanes a couple weeks later. In retrospect, we probably should have at least mentioned that in this video! Thanks for watching.

[@OurTravelPlace]

It was really interesting to hear your experience! My ears pricked up in particular when you were talking about traffic. We're planning a trip to Florida and want to hire a car this time but I am SO nervous about driving in Florida as I haven't driven in the US before, and just keep hearing about how horrible the FL interstates are, particularly the I-4 😬Also surprised at the lack of gator spotting! I thought you would have seen loads with all your trips to springs and parks. We did spot one chilling by the road once, that was pretty cool. When you talk about things getting busier from tourists around the gulf, do you find May busy?

[@Explorcation]

Yay! We are happy to hear you both might be coming back to Florida 😀 when it comes to the traffic, yes it can be bad. Best advice we would have is to do your best to be alert when on the interstates and if you can, plan to drive on them outside of rush hour traffic (at least for your first experience to get used to it). It is possible to drive on smaller highways through more rural areas of the state, but, for that option we would recommend downloading the google maps in case you lose cell service. Early May doesn't tend to be too busy yet. At that time kids are still in school and the gulf water is starting to warm up. By the end of May it seems to pick up, especially the last weekend which is a holiday here. Let us know if you have any more questions for your planning!

[@OurTravelPlace]

@@Explorcation Thanks for the driving tips, much appreciated! I'm probably imagining it to be worse than it actually is. Good to know about May, there's a holiday at the end of May here too. Thanks again for the advice!

[@Explorcation]

@@OurTravelPlace happy trip planning and let us know if any other questions come up 😊

[@posthardcoresinger]

Are there just no hills or mountains within driving distance from any of the major southern cities? I want to get to Florida soon but I also wanna be able to drive like 30 minutes from my home to somewhere with twists and turns and preferably elevated, having fun cars in the city is kind of a waste to me and I'm not a racetrack guy.

[@Explorcation]

Inland (closer to Orlando) there is a little more elevation and some more curvy/scenic roads, but still nothing compared to what you'll find further north in Georgia and Carolinas. We do not have fun cars, but when we did, we definitely enjoyed the twists and turns a lot more!

[@JohnMiller-jl2pr]

Love Ft. Desota Park and especially the beaches....

[@Explorcation]

We do to! It really is an amazing park.

[@carlapopper]

Fun video! I'm palnning the big move to Florida next March. I'm so over the brutal winters in Chicago (negative 0) and the extremely high winds. Chicago is called (The Windy City) along with senseless violence. I'm originally from Belize, I grew up with cockroaches and being on hurricane alerts from June 1st - November 30th. I'm ready to reconnect with nature and living a more active life. Keep the videos coming!

[@Explorcation]

That's so exciting to hear about your upcoming move, Carla. We're sure next March will be here before you know it! We certainly don't blame you for wanting to escape the cold weather, winds, and crime in Chicago. Our favorite thing about living in Florida is still being able to be active year round... we will never miss the long cold winters in the midwest!

[@carlapopper]

was just talking about your video to my coworker! Thank u!@@Explorcation

[@rajivghazi1959]

Thanx for the video, Skylar did not get a Tan in 9 years? Must love the shade....

[@Explorcation]

Our pleasure. And I assume you are referring to Jamie... who could spend her entire life in the sun and still never tan 😂

[@ppiriou]

I’m not surprised that you moved from Sarasota to St-Pete! I never spend more than 4 hours when I visit Sarasota…😎

[@Explorcation]

We still love certain things about Sarasota, mainly its beaches, but yeah we definitely prefer the pace of St. Pete.

[@NotMyName888]

Interesting that you don't see many alligators where you are. In coastal Georgia/South Carolina they really are all over the place.

[@Explorcation]

I think that in the more rural coastal areas you probably see a lot more, but our coast here is pretty developed, so you have to drive a bit to get out into the country.

[@bobmarcus8046]

I've lived in St. Pete for the past 40 years from Chicago and still love it here. Check out a Bay Area Info Tour to get a great overview of the Bay area.

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much for sharing, Bob. We'll definitely check it out. We hope that we'll still be hear and living St. Pete after 40 years too!

[@robbiephantom]

My wife and I are in our late 20s from New Jersey and we want to take the leap and move to Florida. But the high car/home insurance, hurricanes, cost of living is making us think twice about making the move

[@Explorcation]

That's understandable, Robbie. Every place has it's pros and cons. The insurance is definitely one of the cons of Florida. Overall this is still the place we want to be, but it's certainly not for everyone. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@PDGula-lk6dq]

YOU ARE MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE!!!

[@hunterhilton709]

Nothing compares to the beauty in Florida Diversity helps people grow It's a good thing

[@Explorcation]

We agree 100% Thanks for watching, Hunter.

[@ReginaSmith-l6y]

You are a very cute couple. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@Explorcation]

Thank you for the kind comment and for supporting our channel. We really appreciate it!

[@longnguyen6999]

We moved to FL from CA in 2021. We love FL and reside in Tampa area.

[@Explorcation]

We haven't met too many Cali transplants here, Long. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. We're gland you are enjoying living here in Florida!

[@romanmaimo1468]

Born and raised in Miami Florida wouldn’t live anywhere else best state

[@Explorcation]

No argument from us, Roman! We have no plans to move anywhere else either.

[@gladysgriffin7347]

OMG We live in KC too ! Now more reasons than ever to support you !!!

[@Explorcation]

That's awesome!! We make it back to visit once or twice a year and always miss it (just not the winters).

[@777dingo]

In another video someone warned about buying a home in Florida because the insurance rates are so high and flood insurance is now mandatory due to so many hurricanes and tropical storms, so has that affected you in Florida yet?

[@Explorcation]

Yes, insurance rates are definitely going up for many. Regarding the flood insurance requirement, that requirement applies only to property owners who have coverage through Citizens Property Insurance, which is a state-run insurer. As far as we're aware, those who insure there property through a private insurer (and don't live in a flood plain) still aren't required to purchase flood insurance.

[@alexanderedmonds1784]

I snagged a limited edition of that set when i was over there at wh world and its glorious. 10/10 would buy his mini of you made one my guy

[@Explorcation]

Awesome. Thanks for watching!

[@schlesinger29]

Hurricanes tropical storms tornados lightning power outages floods high wind damage enjoy that at least in California we don’t have to deal with that not all the time we sure don’t get hurricanes and tropical storms

[@Explorcation]

Yea the severe weather like tropical storms and hurricanes are things to consider when planning a trip or moving to Florida. We do hope to share more about that aspect of living in Florida in a future video. Thanks so much for watching!

[@mercedesvargas8823]

Great place for vacation but not to live

[@Thedesertguy75]

Best thing Ive ever heard, " You don't have to shovel Sunshine!"

[@Explorcation]

That is 100% accurate 😂

[@BransonFamVlog]

We will be sure to bring you some BBQ from Missouri the next time we head down your way. That is certainly something that we would miss if we ever move away from our area.

[@Explorcation]

Yes please 😀😆 we sure do miss Joe's KC and Jack Stack! Thank you guys for watching, we hope you all have a great weekend 😊

[@joecoletti7970]

Why did you move out of Sarasota? What attracted you to Tampa St Petes versus Sarasota?

[@Explorcation]

We actually just made a St. Pete vs Sarasota video a couple of weeks ago in which we touched on some of the reasons that we moved. But the main one was that St. Pete is just more active and we love the downtown. Sarasota is geared a little more towards families, retirees, and snowbirds. We often talk about potentially moving back to Sarasota in our later years, but for now, we prefer the energy of St. Pete.

[@mikeforte7585]

If u want to know what it's like in "heaven"...why don't u talk to people who have lived here for at least 30 years...life has changed and mostly not for the better....Central Florida is no different than another place only it doesn't show...traffic is absolutely utter hell ...I used to go to Tampa to watch hockey not anymore..it's stressful to drive anywhere...housing is expensive..u don't buy houses u bid on them..even living in hi crime areas is expensive...hi utilities hi insurance to drive and insure ur home..no state income tax but u can spend 200 to 400 dollars a month on the crowded toll roads..food is expensive I like how she mentioned Big Macs...up in "hell"....bid macs are garbage but down here in "heaven" its a delicacie.....locals don't go to Disney is super expensive and crowded not to mention the hell of driving rhere...every day we hear sires because of traffic accidents and hi crime...we call the sires the music from the Messianic choir...because everything is a Messianic experience...my neighbor pay 2400 a month to rent a 1300 square feet home...they work 2 jobs...us locals who have been here for years just laugh at the fantasy logic we hear from people who think Central Florida is all about partying...we have our houses fixed up to be mini resorts so we don't have to deal with the BS traffic and the declining lifestyle ...as we say it's either crowded or under construction..oh yeah the super markets we shop at sell fruits and vegetables that are basically tasteless...but it's all 5 star because it's "heaven"...

[@nancychandler3673]

Florida Real Estate taxes went up 33% in 2022 and going up another 40% in 2023. Better to rent in Florida.

[@mikeforte7585]

@Nancy Chandler I have lived in Florida for 50 years ....when u buy a home in Florida that u intend to live in (not rent out)....ur property taxes are based on what u paid for the home..ur taxes can only increase a maximum of 3 and a half per cent a year no matter how much the house appreciates over 3 and a half percent.....on the flip side ur taxes can only go down a maximum of 3 and a half percent a year if the house goes down in value exceeding 3 and a half percent..if the house is ur primary residence u get a 50000 dollar home stead exemption off of the taxable value of the home...these provisions are in the state constitution ..these provisions are what is making the real estate market in Florida so attractive to people from all over the world...here in Central Florida u don't buy houses u bid on them most are over priced to begin with then u can add an additional 10 to 30 thousand dollars on top of the asking price....when u rent a house it doesn't fall under those tax provisions...the taxes can go way up to reflect the full increase in value plus the property doesnt qualify for home stead exemption...this is why u can expect to pay 21 to 25 hundred a month to rent a home .after last year's hurricane season home owners insurance and condo maintenance fees have skyrocketed... My homeowners insurance has increased 50%....and we had no damage...this a major reason why rents are increasing so fast...all the best

[@williamstratton1935]

So I have moved twice both to different states i planes for 3 to 4 years and had it as easy the second time to sell a house and buy a new one on the same day so I just drove a uhaul from one state to another plan and prep save a extra 20% over what you think you need and it should go smoothly

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much for watching and for sharing your experience and tips, William!

[@laurasprague6940]

My niece lived in the Kansas City area then a few years ago she and her husband moved to Sarasota. They love it there. She’s a massage therapist.

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to share, Laura. We're glad to hear that your nice is enjoying Sarasota. It really is a beautiful city.

[@luvslogistics1725]

Floridan here. Please understand why Florida is the way it is, and why other places are too…why crime in Cali & other places has skyrocketed…because of defund the police no cash bail thinking. Basically, anyone is welcome and if you want to keep enjoying Florida, don’t vote for the same policies that ruined other places.

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Midwest..]

Make Florida Great Again turn it blue states J/K 😅

[@VernonEmerson-w8f]

Well, if you really did sell everything almost to move to Florida. Sadly, I think it’s a decision you will live to regret. Lol I moved to Florida from beautiful San Diego California a few years ago and it’s been the worst mistake of my life!my life I can honestly tell you! I think about going back all the time, and I’m sure I will at some point. So good luck! Florida is not the desirable place to live, any longer that it once was!!

[@Explorcation]

Yes, we really did sell almost everything... everything that we couldn't fit in our cars and a U-Box. It's been over 10 years now and we haven't regretted it yet, and I'm confident we never will. That said, places are changing all the time, and we realize that someday St. Pete may not be the place for us anymore. That's part of why we love to travel and experience new places, be cause you never know if they may be your new home someday. We're glad to hear that you're confident that you'll make it back to San Diego at some point. Hopefully it's the same as you remember it when you get back!

[@diyfferent]

How long do you think they will have to live in Florida before they regret it? I think it's safe to assume 10 years is long enough to decide and they are still happy with it. We moved here in 2021 and it's been amazing. Not everyone hates Florida. 23 million people live in this state after all.

[@KourttneyL]

Thank you for this!! I’m so done with Michigan winters I despise my life here. I know my new life is in FL. I just need to get a plan to get down there

[@Explorcation]

We feel your pain, Kourttney! We still head up to the midwest once (sometimes more) every winter to get a taste of the frigid cold and snow. It's fun for a couple of days, but it always feels so good to land back in Florida. We hope you are able to put a plan together and get down here soon. Thanks for watching!

[@PantherCoupe]

Y’all should fit right in down in Sarasota!

[@Explorcation]

We lived there for over 6 years, and yeah, we fit in just fine. But we ultimately decided St. Pete was a better fit for us and moved there around 2.5 years ago, and we love it here. Thanks for watching!

[@curtandoscar]

Thanks. Always enjoy your videos. I'm flying to Tampa tomorrow from New England. I've visited Miami Beach for 15 yrs and spent a few days in Sarasota, which I loved, and visited St Pete for a day trip, but am looking forward to 3-4 days in Gulfport to explore the area. Would love to get away from the winters as I absolutely hate that time of year up here, but haven't yet been brave enough to make the move.

[@Explorcation]

That's great to hear that you are going to be checking out Gulfport for a few days. It's such a fun and unique place! Perhaps this trip will be the one that finally convinces you to move down to Florida!

[@ryangladfelter1818]

We just moved from Blue Springs to the Tampa area and we are loving it. We are renting in Riverview for the moment until we find the right forever location!

[@Explorcation]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Ryan! We're glad that you you've been happy with your decision to move to Florida. Take your time exploring the area and finding the perfect city for you. There are a lot of great options to choose from!

[@SecretRoomEvents]

Yall should dp shows aboit house hunting on fl u would get huge draw of viewers

[@Explorcation]

That would be a lot of fun. When we decide it's the right time to be homeowners again, we may just have to do make that video!

[@BeingBedingfield]

Thanks for sharing your story, it’s so interesting to hear all about your experience moving across the country! Really not easy to make the move, but so worth it! But you had me at beautiful beaches 🤩 I would move to St Pete for that reason alone ❤️ Cockroaches 🙈 we also had to deal with those back in Durban 🤢😂

[@Explorcation]

Yeah, the giant cockroaches take a bit of getting used to (as does the heat/humidity), but we really can't think of a place we'd rather live. Florida suits us well.

[@sheenamarie9649]

I know you can't wear your hair down when you go outside..

[@Explorcation]

What's the reason for that? People wear their hair down here all the time, all though probably less so during the summer months due to the heat.

[@The1ByTheSea]

Sarasota was. great choice...a city, that has everything a city has to offer..without being a huge city; close to the beach and close to major airports !! great choice

[@Explorcation]

Thanks so much. Even though we eventually left Sarasota, we are so happy that we chose to live there. It really does have so many big city amenities while still being a relaxing, laid back place. We could definitely see ourselves moving back to Sarasota some day.

[@2021-j2d]

We have a similar story….soon after our wedding in the frozen NE we moved to FL with only what fit into our little MGB sports car and lived in a hotel on St Pete beach. Will soon be 70 yr old and have not regretted moving to the Tampa Bay Area. Well maybe regret telling everyone how fabulous it’s been now that they are all doing same thus all the traffic 😮

[@Explorcation]

We've heard from so many people out there who have similar stories to ours. It definitely makes us feel not quite as crazy 😂 We're so glad to hear that you have not had any regrets about the move, but we definitely hear what you're saying about the traffic!

[@Utubeisazzho]

We doin this soon but I’m bringing my roll off dumpster truck box truck pick up truck two trailers and two suvs. All kinds of tools and equipment and I don’t know where I’m guna put it all lol Coming from 7 acres. Can’t wait to start a new journey!

[@amyluetmer1592]

I love watching your video's! You have really great info and it has been so helpful in my search for my future home.

[@Explorcation]

Thank you so much for the kind and encouraging comment, Amy. We're really happy to hear that our channel has been helpful in your future home search. Best of luck to you in finding the place that is perfect for you!

[@MILGEO]

I don't know how you could completely leave out hurricane season and the mandatory evacuations! 😳

[@Explorcation]

We left it out intentionally because we devoted an entire video to the topic of hurricanes a few weeks later. In retrospect, we probably should have mentioned the reasoning for it in this video though 😂

[@magiccheeseball]

Nice video! Florida does have it's good and bad points when my father was retired he lived in KC in the summer and the rest of the year in Florida and rented his place to KC football players in the fall Rich Gannon lived there during the seasons he played at KC and later Joe horn. Nowadays with all the remote jobs people could probably do that without waiting to be retired I wish I could do that now that I'm older the summers are getting too hot for me here in Florida

[@Explorcation]

Thank you so much for watching our video and for sharing your story! We would love to eventually have a place up in the midwest where we could spend summers! We don't mind the summers here in Florida, but mainly because of our close proximity to the beach. If we lived further inland, I have a feeling that we would enjoy the summers a lot less!

[@Dutchy-1168]

Hope you made it through the Hurricane !

[@Explorcation]

Thank you so much! We made it through well.

[@TheComputerCowboy]

I am also from Kansas City. The Missouri side. I’ve moved to Sarasota before, and like you, I had never been there before I move there. 😂 Unfortunately, my career moved me far away from there. I’m currently trying to move back.

[@Explorcation]

That's awesome. Glad we aren't the only ones crazy enough to move across the country sight unseen! We hope you are able to make it back down to sunny Florida soon!

[@priba11]

Good video! ❤👍 greetings guys

[@Explorcation]

Greetings and thanks so much for watching!

[@robot1121]

In which areas does it not flood? Are there some areas where hurricanes don't really happen in Florida?

[@Fourwindsofsuccess]

Hurricanes attacks all sides. It don’t matter the south Florida, west coast, central, pandhandle, & east coast. No parts are safer then the next because so many Floridians from different regions think one side is worse when all sides has been hit directly. It can flood in any area in Florida don’t matter, the more closer to the beach the worst but it can flood in any area. Florida has low paying jobs to and it’s not the place i would recommmed.

[@Explorcation]

Everywhere in Florida is affected by hurricanes, but the coastal areas tend to get the strongest winds and worst storm surge. Central Florida can still get a lot of rain dumped on it during a hurricane, but they generally won't have the storm surge flooding like you will often see on the coast.

[@yanetcortes2437]

I live in south Fl , Fl has become extremely expensive !! Cost of living is insane , low wages , like very low salaries , homeowner insurance is very high !! flood insurance too etc , in the past 5 years fl has changed a lot , very crowed , lot of traffic , we have the worst drivers !! Car insurance oh lord very high !!job market here is horrible , customer service doesn’t exist !! You better speaks espanol !! I’m Latina and I love the beach, we go very often to the beach but besides all the beautiful beaches we have , FL sucks this is the true , lot of fraud and scams 😂😂, we are moving out soon

[@casualtrips9571]

I've been in Florida all my life. Just you wait. One day you're gonna get sick of this heat and the people here. When I move to Washington state I'm never looking back.

[@Explorcation]

Everyone's different. I've met plenty of people that have lived in Florida there whole lives and have no plans to ever leave. If we didn't travel, I think we might eventually get sick of the heat. But we go back to the midwest at least once every winter, and after a week of snow and cold, we're always ready to be back in the Florida heat! We hope you love it up in Washington state!

[@diyfferent]

lol...Washington State. Enough said!!

[@casualtrips9571]

@@diyfferent 1 year later I'm now living in WA state lol. Weather has been great