Alternative Living | Mandy Eve-Barnett's Blog for Readers & Writers

Alternative Living – Other Options Part Three…

May 25, 2016
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6. A caravan

This is open to interpretation. Old or modern or new concept. Costs are reflected in the design, space and style – so you will need to investigate what your money will buy. You can travel from site to site or become semi- permanent on a site, it depends on what you require for income, such as where your work place is situated, if you have a self-generated income or have retired and want to travel with all the comforts of home and familiarity.

7. A shipping container

The use of shipping containers for conversation into homes has become increasingly popular. In fact, in some European countries, they are being converted into store/retail units. Depending on how much space you need or want,you can purchase one or more and design how you will convert it into a living space. The conversion cost is high and requires a lot of expert knowledge and time. However, there are numerous companies that will convert and refit containers for you at a price. This link is from a local article from my city – http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/shipping-container-homes-move-into-edmonton-s-back-alleys-1.3596759

8. A tent

There are of course temperature restrictions when it comes to living in a tent – in our -40 winters the idea of living in a tent is unthinkable, however on a sunny, warm beach somewhere with the waves crashing in – yep!

Tents come in all sorts of styles, shapes, and sizes. You would need to be minimalist in your lifestyle to be able to ‘move’ your home easily. Again it depends on where you wish to travel or live and how you would sustain yourself.

Which of these options would you rather live in?

Living Alternatives – Other Options Part Two…

May 18, 2016
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3. A Van

A van can be converted into a small living space.You will have the benefit of moveability, changing scenery, being your own boss and traveling whenever you wish.

The cost of conversion can be high and technically challenging for anyone with no mechanical expertise. However, there are ready-made options available.

As you can see from this link it can be done. http://tinyhousetalk.com/couple-two-dogs-traveling-stealth-tiny-house/

4. A Yurt

yurt

A traditional yurt is a round, semi-permanent tent lived in by Mongolians and fashioned from natural skins. Modern day yurts do not adhere to these methods although the shape and concept are the same but utilize hi-tech materials for to accommodate temperature variations and conditions and are normally stationary.

They are sturdy buildings and due to the circular shape retain heat well and with a steeper pitch on the conical roof can repel downpours of rain well. Modern yurts are not cheap to purchase so this option is one to consider. You also need to ensure you have a permanent site on, which to live unless you opt for a traditional yurt and dismantle and reassemble regularly.

5. A Double Decker Bus

A double decker bus can be converted into a moveable or fixed home, depending on your choice. It is surprisingly spacious once the seats are taken out.

You will need mechanical, electrical and plumbing expertise (or knowledgeable friends) to make this option possible. The conversion cost is quite high so planning your layout is paramount prior to starting the build. Also, if you are traveling the cost of gas can be high so factor that into your budget.

Which one of these options would you prefer?

Alternative Living – More Options Part One…

May 11, 2016
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Places that are cheaper to live in than a traditional house.

1. A CANAL BOAT – this is dependent on where you live in the world as canals are not available globally.

canal-boat

If there are canals near you it is possible to buy a prime inner-city residence for less than £20,000 (GBP). Canal boats are compact and easily moveable to sites around the country, which may allow you to work part time or for short periods or indeed follow trade or craft fairs. There are canal rules to abide by and opening and closing locks can be quite physical. One problem that may occur is a drunk may untie your mooring rope during the night and you will drift.

If you do not want to move around too much the other option is to moor your boat and pay mooring fees, however these can cost thousands of (GBP) pounds a year.Moorings in city areas are more expensive and there can be a waiting list. In more rural areas the fees fall dramatically and you can find some marinas include sewage removal, drinking water, wi-fi and plug-in electricity.

Other expenses to consider are a safety certificate for your vessel, a boat license, insurance, upkeep costs and possibly council taxes.

2. A FLATPACK HOUSE

Flat-Pack-House

These compact houses are for one or two people to live in. They are eco-friendly in miniature, complete with composting toilet. The smaller houses can build it in 4 hours. These are not tiny houses sited on trailers, as such but are bought as a literal flat pack. This enables you to build your home but of course some expertise is required. If you are a super handy-person then it should not be too difficult. Finding a plot of land to build it might be the biggest headache.

There are several companies specializing in these type of houses including IKEA. So with a weekend (or 3-4 days) you can build a new home. Some are modular so you can add to your original house at a later stage.

Which of these options would you like?

Alternative Living – Native Villages…

May 4, 2016
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indian village

We have all seen the documentaries and ‘discoveries’ of native people living far away from the trappings of modern society. Some of us may wish we could escape and live a simple life but in reality these ‘lost’ people have a hard existence. Food has to be gathered, hunted or grown, they do not have the convenience of food stores, in fact no stores at all in many cases. Bartering with other villages and meager supplies from other sources can supplement their provisions but it is not an ‘easy’ way of life. However, they do have structure, incredible skills and do not waste anything. It is a completely different change of pace and cultural experience, if you happen to be honored with acceptance by these indigenous people.

All processes are hands-on, such as grinding corn for flour, carrying water, or chopping wood for a fire. The majority of the day is taken up with hunting, fishing, gathering and then the cooking of meals. Planning for the day’s activities to ensure everyone is fed is followed by actions and then sharing across the generations, playing with children and the telling of stories complete the day. Everyone has a vital role within the village no matter their age – a real community. The wisdom and skills of elders are revered and passed from generation to generation.

Many tribes live within certain areas, utilizing known seasonal fruit and plant provisions as well as animal habitat. Others follow the seasons for grazing and other sources of food. Housing is created using natural forms and materials found nearby while others are made from skins and other natural fabrics and reused time and again.

In reality could you live this kind of simple life?

native hut

Alternative Living – The Wandering Part 2…

April 27, 2016
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Around-the-World

As I said this subject required a second post. So for those of you yearning to travel the globe but still earn some income, here are the other options open to you.

11. This option depends on your personality and if you are willing to put in a few months research. Affiliate Marketing may be the source of income to give you your freedom.

12. Another option is selling goods online. These can be your own crafts where you set up a website or shop on a online sales outlet. There is a good deal of marketing that is required but it can work.

13. Day-Trading is another option that requires research and knowledge on the markets but again can be maintained remotely.

14. An ultimate job is to be allowed the option to work remotely thereby giving you freedom to work anywhere while still receiving a good salary.

15. Why not look after someone’s home when they are away? It can be a couple of weeks, months or even years dependent on the location and type of home.

16. Teaching is not limited to languages, how about dance classes, or yoga, or tutoring another subject as well as musical instruments.

17. For those of you with an artistic or creative personality, try joining an international traveling show, such a circus, music band, theater group or dance show.

18. If you are multilingual becoming am interpreter or translator is another way to utilize your skills to travel.

19. This is not for everyone, but online poker can reap rewards as long as you are good at the game. Remember that not all locations allow online gambling (United States) so check before you play.

20. If you are good with children there is the option of employment as an au pair.

21. If you have great skills in photography sell your images online. People love photos of exotic locations and images of life abroad.

22. Why not sell your art and crafts at local markets? There is a wealth of tourists wanting souvenirs. There are many market circuits to follow.

23. With an artistic talent there is always busking – you can dance, juggle, play an instrument or sing. Just check the legalities first.

24. Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) – although you will not be paid you will have room and board and travel. You can do good while exploring the world.

25. Peace Corps is an option but remember it is a two-year commitment. You will receive a housing and living allowance, student loan assistance and full medical and dental coverage. Working in third world locations assisting with health, agriculture and environment issues.

26. WWOOF is World Wide Organization of Organic Farms – you work 4-6 hours a day in exchange for food and housing with a host family.

Travel-World