For adventure-loving couple Richard and Veronica McGuigan, life at Aveo's Shortland Waters Retirement Living means freedom and the opportunity to keep exploring the world with peace of mind knowing their home is in safe hands.
The couple have travelled to all seven continents including Antarctica, making the most of the lock up and leave lifestyle that the Newcastle community provides.
"We enjoy discovering how other people live and experiencing different cultures from staying in the homes of locals in Vietnam to visiting our favourite places in South America, particularly Machu Picchu," Richard said.
"Living in our Aveo community allows us to continue that love of travel without any concerns about our own home.
"When we leave for holidays, members of the Aveo team and other residents keep an eye on our home and water our garden. It's like being part of one big family. We go away with the knowledge that on our return everything will be just as we left it. It's so easy to just take off whenever we like."
Although their long-haul international travel is coming to an end, the McGuigans aren't planning to stay still.
"These days we're focusing more on exploring Australia and also house-sitting for people we know, which is a great way to enjoy a change of scenery without paying for accommodation," Richard said. "Our next trip is to the Margaret River region as southern Western Australia is one of the few places we haven't travelled to.''
The couple were among the earliest residents to move into the first stage of Shortland Waters when it opened in 2017, and Richard and Veronica say it's been one of the best decisions they've made.
"We only relocated two kilometres and were watching it being built," Richard said. "At first, Veronica wasn't keen about the idea of moving to a retirement community, but now I couldn't get her out of here with a tow truck!
"The number of friends she has made is incredible - she's always off to lunch, morning tea or group trips. In fact, she's flying to the Gold Coast today with 26 other women from the community. Last year they took a short cruise together and before that it was Melbourne.''
Nestled beside the Shortland Waters Golf Club, the community offers a relaxed and picturesque lifestyle overlooking the fairways and a peaceful lake. Residents enjoy access to extensive facilities including a community centre, gym, theatrette, library, workshop, art and craft room, salon and communal garden. Modern two-bedroom villas, some with a study or multipurpose room, provide stylish, low-maintenance living perfect for retirees who want to lock up, leave and live life to the fullest.
To learn more about Shortland Waters Retirement Living, click the link below.
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