Many newly retired folks, or folks preparing to retire, often question one of two things – or maybe even both! What are those questions? Number one is “where will I live?” and number two is “what will I do?” People who have spent their lives in the workplace are often uncomfortable with the thought of not having something to occupy their time, and sometimes worry about having an affordable place to live. If these are questions on YOUR mind, relax! Branson, Missouri, and the surrounding area is the perfect place to spend your retirement. Branson is highly affordable – with numerous real estate options to fit any style and budget (check out Thousand Hills condos!) and even strictly seasonal options, this town has you covered. And what about the activities for retired folks in and around Branson? Well, you can…
Take Up Fishing
Let’s face it – most men like to fish. Most men probably wish they could fish nearly 24/7. While retirement may not give you quite that much time to spend fishing, it will give you plenty of free hours to spend with a line in the water! The Branson/Tri-Lakes area is famous for its fishing – so now is the time to buy that fishing vest, dig out that dusty tackle box, and hit the water. Table Rock Lake is a prime bass fishing spot and is home to several bass tournaments. Lake Taneycomo is a grand place to fish for trout in the cooler waters – especially right below the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery! If you are more of a creek or stream person, the local fishermen would be happy to direct you to several area streams that make beautiful fishing settings. Not only is retirement the perfect time to start fishing more frequently, it is also the perfect time to buy a boat. Bass Pro in Springfield or on the Branson Landing has a big selection of quality boats to outfit any fisherman (or woman)!
Ride a Reining Horse
Many people who had an interest in horses when they were younger often revisit that interest in retirement. What better time to get involved in a discipline like reining? Unlike many other equine sports, reining is geared more towards adults than children. Bobby Avila, of Avila Performance Horses LLC in Rogersville (fifty minutes north of Branson) is your go to guy if this is an activity you would like to get into. The sport of reining is all about smooth partnership and control. Judges want to see athletic horses with good attitudes and smooth movements, and a rider that is in control of the horse – and nobody understands this as well as Bobby. He has won and placed in several national competitions, and is ready to help you achieve your reining goals! Bobby trains horses for individuals, coaches riders, and also rides horses for investors (so if you want to be involved, but may not want to ride in competitions, Bobby rides the horse for you). Retirement is a great time to get back in the saddle! You can get started by visiting www.avilaperformancehorses.net.
Volunteer Your Time
Now that you have more time on your hands, retirement may be a point in your life where you want to start giving back! There are numerous opportunities to volunteer to help your community in and around the Branson area. You can volunteer at the local libraries, sign up to help at special events like the NAIA Tournament held annually at College of the Ozarks and events held to honor veterans, or even be a lunch buddy for a child at area schools.
Branson is a great place to retire – you will never run out of things keep you occupied and involved! So check out Branson and start your retirement journey today.
