• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Today's Transitions

  • Home
  • Home
  • Find Help
    • Search Care Communities
    • Caregiver Solutions
    • Health Treatments
    • Search Home Caregiving
    • Search for Resources
    • All Caregiving
  • Beautiful Living
    • Travel and Daytrips
    • Health and Fitness
    • Delicious Food
    • Happenings Guide
    • Home and Books
    • Technology
    • Meaningful Work
      • Volunteering
    • Money and Finances
    • Positive Mental Thinking
    • People
  • Living Options
    • Search for Living Communities
    • Home Improvements
    • Low Maintenance Living
    • Downsizing
  • The Magazine
    • Read New Issue
    • Find Magazine
  • Connect
    • Subscribe to Newsletter
    • Manage Listing (Provider/Advertiser)
    • Advertising Options
    • Subscribe to Print Magazine
    • About Today’s Transitions
  • Show Search
Hide Search
Home / Topics / Travel and Daytrips / Calling Paradise Home: From Southern Indiana to St. John

Calling Paradise Home: From Southern Indiana to St. John

January 7, 2022 · Leave a Comment

On Island Time

If you’ve ever dreamed of retiring or spending your winter days on a luxurious island, Helen Faith has some advice for you.  

Helen and her husband, John, now live full time on St. John, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The couple had purchased several investment vacation rentals over the years, so they always had a winter retreat at their fingertips and spent their summer days at their southern Indiana home, where they thought they’d spend the rest of their lives.

“Our home in Indiana was so special to us, so we tried living on St. John for three years before we committed to selling it and moving full time to the island,” Helen explains. 

The move, Helen says, was a challenge. “Everything on an island is a logistical challenge. It was a two-month process to ship our belongings to St. John.” Helen explains that since St. John does not have its own airport, all essential furniture had to be shipped first to Florida, then put on a barge to St. Thomas, and then put on another freight to St. John. In preparation for the move, the couple sold most of their belongings. 

Like moving their items to the island, the experience of building a home on the island was equally as tricky. All materials must be brought to the island and labor is difficult to come by, since the population is only between 2,000-3,000 people. 

“You definitely have to learn sacrifice and patience to move to an island. The states have so many conveniences we take for granted, like supermarkets,” Helen says while on a quick two-day Louisville visit, she scheduled some dental work. “On an island, you need to depend on yourself for maintenance; labor is always very busy. You have to learn to work with what you have. There is no such thing as following a recipe, for instance—you learn to make a meal with what is offered at the store on that given day. You can’t have food delivered for dinner; there is no fast food. You have to be able to sacrifice conveniences, such as consistent electricity. We have frequent outages…at least one every week or so for up to four hours. You have to be flexible and patient—Island Time is REAL!”   

 But that, Helen explains, is the trade-off. While the mainland economy offers many conveniences for the consumer, the fast-paced, high-pressure work environment is unsustainable—and exactly what made them want to head to the islands. 

“In the states everyone is rushing around to get a job done. That’s why you move to an island, you remove the pressures of immediacy. You have to accept the lifestyle and learn to enjoy it. It is more relaxed, there is no traffic, you can swim at an amazing beach whenever you have free time, it is 80 degrees all winter long. The quality of life makes up for the inconveniences.”   

John and Helen have since built a cottage they rent out to visitors that features a private pool and one of the best views on the island. While the rental and the weekly tasks of maintaining their home keep them busy, they still find time to take a beach swim a few evenings a week. After all, they now live on island time.

If moving to an island is not in the cards for you, consider taking a trip to one of these top warm weather destinations.
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Hawaii
• St. Augustine, Florida

By Megan Seckman 

P.S. Read how another couple made their travel destination of New Mexico a home.

Filed Under: Featured, Travel and Daytrips

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Search for Caring Communities

Search for Resources

Sponsored

Search

  • facebook
  • instagram
  • pinterest
  • linkedin
  • subscribe

todaystransitions

Today's Transitions
There is nothing like live music in the great outd There is nothing like live music in the great outdoors. Be sure to check out the Jeffersonville Riverstage when making plans this summer. “Riverstage is truly a magical place to enjoy live music, especially when the sun goes down, the walking bridge lights up, and fireworks from the Louisville Bats game pop off in the background. The city of Jeffersonville takes a lot of pride in providing free, family-friendly events for everyone in the community to enjoy,” says Amber Powell, manager of Special Events and Riverstage for the City of Jeffersonville. Tap the link in bio to read more.⁠
⁠
📝: Megan S. Willman⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #GreatOutdoors #JeffersonvilleRiverstage #livemusic #ThingsToDo ⁠
⁠
Looking for a bourbon-themed adventure? The Lexing Looking for a bourbon-themed adventure? The Lexington Distillery District is a 25-acre property that was once home to the historic James E. Pepper Distillery, which began producing bourbon in 1879. The property is now a lively, vibrant downtown destination that includes working distilleries, trendy restaurants, the Manchester Music Hall, art galleries, and much more. Grab lunch at the Elkhorn Tavern and jump on a distillery tour and tasting at Barrel House Distillery or the James E. Pepper Distillery. Tap the link in our bio to read more from our spring issue. ⁠
⁠
📝 & 📸: @hartogphotog⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Spring #bourbondistillery #daytrip #ThingsToDo⁠
Looking for some books to dive into this summer? W Looking for some books to dive into this summer? We've got two you need to check out at the link in bio.⁠
⁠
📝: Vanessa Hutchison⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #WhatWe'reWatching #summerreading ⁠
Don't forget about Waterfront Park when making you Don't forget about Waterfront Park when making your summer plans. “Waterfront Park is a treasured community asset with more than 85 acres of welcoming green space along the Ohio River in downtown Louisville. More than 2.2 million people visit the park each year to enjoy its public art, special events, the Big Four Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge, tranquil picnic careers, award-winning riverwalk, children’s playgrounds, and unparalleled sunsets. There is an experience for everyone at Waterfront Park,” says Deborah Bilitski, president/executive director of Waterfront Park. Tap the link in bio for more information.⁠
⁠
📝: Megan S. Willman⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #GreatOutdoors #WaterfrontPark #ThingsToDo ⁠
⁠
The Midway Historic District, located halfway betw The Midway Historic District, located halfway between Frankfort and Lexington in Midway, was designated by the National Registry of Historic Places as a historic district in 1978. Charming shops and restaurants line both sides of the still-active Lexington and Ohio Railroad – the oldest railroad in Kentucky. Black Type Co. can fuel your adventures with hot coffee drinks and pastries, as well as cocktails, wines, and charcuteries. The gift shop offers the creations of local artisans, including Kentucky-themed art, honey, lotions, and candles. Kentucky bourbons and wines are also available for purchase. Tap the link in our bio to read more from our spring issue. ⁠
⁠
📝 & 📸: @hartogphotog⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Spring #Midway #daytrip #ThingsToDo⁠
Derby may be over but Churchill Downs still has pl Derby may be over but Churchill Downs still has plenty going on. Tap the link in bio for a few events in May and June you don't want to miss.⁠
⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #ThingsToDo #ChurchillDowns #HorseRacing
Feeling slighted in the workplace because of your Feeling slighted in the workplace because of your age? Ageist behavior can take many forms, ranging from the subtle to the deliberate, and can be based on unfounded stereotypes or internalized prejudices. We talked to several experts who offered tips to help recognize the signs of ageism and ways to create a more age-inclusive environment in the workplace. Tap the link in bio to learn how perspective can play into your experience. ⁠
⁠
📝: Tonilyn Hornung⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #Ageism
The internet is necessary and central to everyday The internet is necessary and central to everyday life for most people. Using computers and mobile devices, however, can become more difficult and even painful as manual dexterity wanes. Innovations in technology may provide hope for those with limited mobility, allowing them to navigate the internet more easily and comfortably. One exciting innovation is eye-tracking technology. Read more at the link in bio.⁠
⁠
📝: Vanessa Hutchison⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #Tech #eyetrackingtech
Custom furniture can really add to a space, showca Custom furniture can really add to a space, showcasing your unique style while providing a boost to your home. Tap the link in bio to read about one local designer who got his start making a nightstand out of free wood. ⁠
⁠
📝 & 📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #CustomFurniture⁠
⁠
As we age, pain is not a foregone conclusion. Fact As we age, pain is not a foregone conclusion. Factors linked to pain include decreased activity levels, lack of sleep, depression, and specific health issues such as nerve damage, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. “Older injuries that were sustained in our teens or twenties can also manifest as chronic pain when we are older,” says Jennifer L. Ajkay, APRN-BC and ACHPN. So what can you do? Get some solutions at the link in bio.⁠
⁠
📝: @tpyles74⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #ItsHeckGettingOld #PainManagement
Farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to b Farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to buy local fruits and veggies picked at the peak of the season, meet the farmers who grow the food, try new foods, and connect with others. Get expert tips so you can make the most of your next trip to the market at the link in bio.⁠
⁠
📝: @tpyles74⁠
📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #spring #farmersmarket
Hosting an Oaks or Derby party? From Ham Sliders t Hosting an Oaks or Derby party? From Ham Sliders to Hot Brown Lettuce Cups, everyone will feel like a winner on race day with these tasty party additions. Tap the link in bio to read more.⁠
⁠
📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #KentuckyDerby #DerbyWeek #DerbyParty #DerbyRecipes⁠
⁠
It's all about the hat this week as we race toward It's all about the hat this week as we race towards the first Saturday in May and the Kentucky Derby. Need a little inspiration? Tap the link in bio for some tips to help find the perfect hat to top off your track ensemble.⁠
⁠
⁠
📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #KentuckyDerby #DerbyWeek #DerbyHats #DerbyFashion⁠
Happy Derby Week! This year is the 149 renewal of Happy Derby Week! This year is the 149 renewal of the Run for the Roses — that’s 14 fashion-filled decades! We’re hitting some highlights of the past — and giving you inspiration on how to add a nostalgic vibe to your Derby look. Tap the link in bio to see the looks, and visit our website for more Derby-inspired fun all this week!⁠
⁠
📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #KentuckyDerby #DerbyFashions #DerbyWeek⁠
Get out and play this May with our Happenings Guid Get out and play this May with our Happenings Guide. So much to do, from Derby Week events to spring festivals, we've got the scoop on where to go and what to do. Tap the link in our bio to get the guide.⁠
⁠
📝: Lindsay McDonald⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #May #HappeningsGuide #ThingsToDo⁠
⁠
⁠
⁠
"Nothing elevates sweet spring air like walking in "Nothing elevates sweet spring air like walking into one of the old rick houses at Woodford Reserve. Step inside and catch a scent of bourbon that has escaped from its captive barrel; it’s perfection before you even taste it,” says John Burgin, Southern Indiana resident. Get out and explore this spring by tapping the link in bio to learn more about this historic distillery. ⁠
⁠
📝: Megan S. Willman⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #springissue #GreatOutdoors #Bourbon #WoodfordReserve⁠
⁠
Thinking of heading to the track Derby Week but wa Thinking of heading to the track Derby Week but wanting to avoid the crowds and costs of Oaks and Derby? Tap the link in bio for two Derby Week events at Churchill Downs offering locals the chance to enjoy the track and all it has to offer.⁠
⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #springissue #Derby #DerbyEvents #ChurchillDowns #502Day #DerbyWeek⁠
⁠
Craving a salad? You are not alone. With the retur Craving a salad? You are not alone. With the return of farmers markets and the smell of spring flowers in the air, salad just feels right this time of year. So let the greens begin with a few salad tips and dressing recipes from our #springissue. Tap the link in bio to get all the delicious details.⁠
⁠
📸:@eatplantsew ⁠
📝: Anita Oldham⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #springissue #Wellness #salads #saladdressings #recipes
"Shelter is my guiding word for this year. It is a "Shelter is my guiding word for this year. It is a non-striving word. A shelter offers refuge, provides safety, and embraces calm and quiet." Writer Lucy M. Pritchett explores the word shelter, what it means to her, and how she finds it in her life. Tap the link in bio to read this month's Finding Shelter feature.⁠
⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #FindingShelter #ArtMuseum #wordfortheyear⁠
⁠
Some foods are naturally full of probiotics, inclu Some foods are naturally full of probiotics, including kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh. Here is a quick recipe that can make your belly (and colon) happy! Recipe at link in our bio.⁠
⁠
📝: Carrie Vittitoe⁠
#LiveYourBestTODAY #Inspiration #TryThis #probiotics #guthealth⁠
⁠
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Recent Posts

  • Spend An Enlightening Afternoon On The Ohio
  • Plan A Dream European Vacation To Greece
  • Get Outside Your Bubble: Online Meeting Apps To Try
  • Avoid Three Common Financial Mistakes
  • Keep Enjoying Life With Tech

Manage Listings · My Account · Caregiving Listing Help
Privacy Policy · Terms of Service
© 2023 · Today's Media· Built by Breakaway Analytics