We are pleased to introduce you to fellow seafarers, John and Melody; and we don't use the term 'seafarers lightly. These seasoned travelers have been spending their retirement RVing, cruising and sailing around the world. They took a break from snorkeling to join us for an interview from Tahiti, before cruising across the South Pacific to Australia and New Zealand. We think they'll fit in just fine!
“When you're on a boat there's always a lot of work that needs to be done continuously; same with the motorhome, there's always something that needs to be fixed. That's why we're happy with (Storylines); we don't have to worry about it, somebody else is taking care of everything."
- Melody
John and Melody are sailors but are already looking forward to the ease of traveling by private residence ship. They are also keen on living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle during their retirement years which is one of the reasons they chose to buy a residence aboard the ship.
"We just love the whole concept. Everything about it sounds perfect."
- Melody and John
Before retiring two years ago, John worked as an emergency and critical care physician (as a first career) and is passionate about all forms of alternative medicine, including chiropractic, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.
Then the couple bought an old commercial fish house and marina in Florida and converted it into an art center, with artists' studios, a gallery, craft beer and ice cream bar. It also serves as an Airbnb, has marina berths, and holds claim to having the number one restaurant for six years in a row on the Treasure Coast of Florida! They have since sold most of their holdings and are now traveling full-time for their retirement.
"First thing I do when I get up is dive in the water. Before coffee or anything, I go for a swim."
- Melody
The couple are fans of dress-up parties, with Melody's birthday falling on Halloween, making for a fun yearly celebration. But they don't save the fun for just one day a year! John suits a pirate outfit a little too easily and Melody makes for a great mermaid. In fact, the title on her business card is Executive Mermaid, which is a testament to their other passion: the water.
Both are keen to get off the beaten path as part of their global travels and explore lesser-known islands with thousands of coral atolls throughout the South Pacific. They're hoping to anchor for weeks and live off the ocean! Anything's possible!
That's one of the big draws of MV Narrative - not following the usual cruise itineraries and having lots of time to explore geographical regions.
Thank you, John and Melody; hosting you on Meet Your Neighbors was a true pleasure.