I agree with you. I've lived here 7 years this coming August and I feel very welcomed here. At least that has been my experience. My neighbors are friendly and helpful. I'm very happy I chose The Villages to live. I think at this point in our lives, we don't have much time left. Why waste it on being hateful when you can chill out, talk to someone and get to know them. You might find that next good Friend! Thank you Chief for posting this video!
Thanks Chief for your perspective and willingness to address this topic. Your positive, honest and realistic assessment is truly appreciated. Retired Army here and I have learned so much from others who, thankfully, were not just like me.
Chief, I am Latina. Born NYC/USA bilingual. I’ve never met such wonderful welcoming people. The music is super diverse and there are so many wonderful clubs for everyone. The shows, the food, the people are just amazing. Not one person has ever made me feel different. Actually I’ve made so many friends. So, The Villages does not market to just one ethnicity. Party or religion. It’s a fantastic place and I love my experience. Next week we will celebrate Cinco De Mayo, and recently St. Patty’s day. “Be the change you want the world to be.” Chief, thank you for your service and your videos. Hasta la vista baby🤗.
What a great testament, thank you so much for sharing. Hearing it from me means really nothing, hearing it from you means the world! Thanks for watching and I'll have to get out there for Cinco De Mayo!
Diversity does not have to be confrontational. I think you stated it well that The Villages is an example of how people come to live together in harmony & just want to live their senior days to the fullest with great health, happiness with sharing good events & venues. I’m envious that you get to experience The Village Lifestyle!
Donna, I agree. I think we all want the same basics in life, doesn’t matter where we’re from. I’m thinking the Villages must be one of the coolest places to live in America. Thankful that we get to see it thru the Chief’s standpoint. He’s awesome!
My dad used to live in Leesburg and whenever we went to Carrabba's and talk to people who lived in The Villages they loved it. Lots of things to do in The villages whether you want to do anything or not.
Honestly, this is a great video. It's nice to hear these comments in the context of The Villages, but they really transcend the Villages. It's wonderful to hear this, it's an optimistic view of the way things should and could be if we would embrace this in our hearts. A very honest and authentic video, thank you for putting this out there, I hope to meet you someday and shake your hand. And thank you for your service to our country.
Human nature is such that people love to learn from others, grow in their awareness of the world, and challenge themselves to respect the dignity of every person, no matter race, creed or gender.
@@karenmelk6848 Absolute 100% nonsense...there's not one thing positive about "diversity" except in the fantasy world of liberals. You can keep "diversity" -- and that DEI BS -- as it destroys everything around it. Brings everything down to its pathetic no-account level. Always has. -- BR
Great video Chief and I share your perspective but we are both retired military and have been exposed to many different cultures and ethic groups throughout our career in the military. However, the word on the street is that the Villages is 86% white and a very small population of minorities. this does not mean that residence are not tolerant of each other but those were the stats that I was able to pull up when considering my move there. If I am being honest, it made me pause and started considering other 55 plus communities across that nation. Thanks again for posting this because I will now schedule a lifestyle visit to come down a see things for myself.
I'm sure that stat is close to reality, I think my view is that it's a welcoming community regardless of race. It's a catch 22 in a way, we're open to be more diverse racially, yet because it looks like we're not diverse, we get stuck with the perception that its unfriendly or something and prevents more diverse people from moving in. And for all I know that all may be true, I'm seeing this as a white guy, so how do I really know? I wish societies in general would get past all this. Thanks for watching and sharing your honest view! I hope you enjoy your visit and would love to hear your thoughts, good or bad, after your visit!
Love this video, I travel internationally and try to embrace all people and cultures...respect for others is the key and so appreciate your open, friendly and welcoming approach, you really represent The Villages with a genuine kindness...beautiful! Thanks for this!!!💙💚🧡
Its very diverse you can play softball, golf, pickle ball, swim or workout and the bars have a wide variety of booze to choose from also. Thanks Chief these topics don't get talked about enough.
Hey Chief, excellent video on a topic that no one that I know of talks about. Just recently went to an event in the Villages and I noticed that I was the only Hispanic there and yet I felt right at home and very comfortable. I moved down here from northern Illinois and yes there was plenty of diversity and along with diversity came all sorts of problems, crime, drug abuse etc. I’m not saying that there’s non of that here but the crime rates and everything that comes with it is a lot lower. I remember hearing that race/culture wise it’s something like 97% white, 3% black, Hispanic and others. A person’s faith or the color of their golf cart and political views doesn’t affect diversity, that being said this is the best decision I feel that my wife and I made moving not just to the Villages but to central Florida. Thanks for another excellent video. Stay safe🤙🏽
Thanks for sharing Victor! I would think the crime drops off because we are all older now too, and all our neighbors are older, I'm not nearly as much trouble as I was when I was a teen!
I do think the Villages doesn't have enough diversity of housing. I'm mid 60's single, travel 5-6/yr. I don't want a house anymore. For me, I think there should be small condos. Easy to care for, lock and leave, and great for folks who have done the big house thing and don't care to use up so much of the earth's resources anymore. Less can be much more!
Good job it’s true to me that The Village is the best place to retire to. It’s been helping me with trying to enjoy the rest of my life without my wife in the picture. Even living alone there are places and things to do in The Villages. It make me get out more. In Tennessee and one year in South Carolina I mostly stayed in the house. The Villages makes you want to get out and enjoy life. I’m a combat Vietnam veteran dealing with PTSD but so far here i feel good. It’s a good VA outpatient clinic and I’m using it fully. You got a good channel like watching your videos. SEMPER FI
It wouldn't be an interesting life if we were all the same. I love meeting people & knowing what they like or how they feel about certain things. You must like & care about people too or you wouldn't be making these great videos. You could definitely be a spokes person for the villages. Wow! I wish my cousin still lived in Ocala. He died last year to COVID. Was a great person. Retired police officer from VA. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts & views with us. Take care & God bless.
@@alicethomas6472 Alice I’m so sorry! I’m very sorry about your cousin. I lost my oldest brother in 2020 and I started typing that and then changed my mind and I got it mixed up in my head. I’m truly sorry.
Hi, this vlog has been helpful for me. I'm actually coming down for a Life Style Experience. Although from what I've seen on YT about The Villages, most of it are married couples or couples. I'm still coming down to check it out. Thank you for your sacrifice serving this country for our freedom, which i don't take for granted. Take care & stay safe.
Well put, Chief. Coming for a second visit the month of August and this issue is the number one question I get asked when I tell friends that I'm checking out the Villages. See you in August.
I didn’t realize that The Villages is over 55 community! Your videos want me to come and visit Villages ! Wish you have a great success in You tube channel .
@@TheVillagesChief I loved that plane! I went to ADJ school at Millington in 1977, asked for F-4's carrier duty, got UH-1's at NAS So. Weymouth MA! Good assignment and it got me interested in helos. Transferred to Army, went Warrant/flight school, did 16 more years!
Good video. I am Hispanic and have never seen an issue. You are right, most people don’t care about the color of people’s skin unless they are trying to support a political agenda. People in TV are friendly to everyone.
Thank you Mr chief for a very honest and heartfelt commentary on the villages and different areas of interest..hoping you and your furbaby have a wonderful fun filled week ahead...from a Indiana girl living on the Virginia Tennessee line 🎉
Chief thanks for the info. My ethnic background is filipino. I asked someone there are asian stores around and she said yes. I need my pancit and lumpia fix. in fact a shipmate from JAX will visit us for food. good points respect on views. The navy taught us we are fighting for everyone's rights and not only our own.
Checkout GracejoyTV, she was born in the Philippines and lives in The Villages, she has a great channel and lots of good info: www.youtube.com/@GracejoyTV/featured
I have found The Villages to be friendly to all that visit or move there. It’s a very appealing lifestyle for those that are looking for relocation post retirement. However, not all people (in my friend group) want to move away from kids and grandkids in retirement, live in a multigenerational household and provide daycare or financial help. For them I recommend a vacation here. Choose what suits you!
Love this video! I don't know why, but I am always shocked when I go outside the Atlanta diversity and openness bubble. I've been looking to the villages as a potential landing spot, and it's good to hear your experiences and perspectives. Thank you!
Hi chief, how are you doing? My name is ed Williams been down for the last couple of weeks bought a house plan on moving here around 1 September I do ride ,got a road king maybe we could get together sometime and grab a coffee or a beer and you could tell me a little bit about the villages. Thanks take care.
Has the gym situation improved? I'm planning a lifestyle visit but I am wondering how people would feel with a guy in his late thirties moving next door. I'm coming from Idaho and want to enjoy the activities and the warm weather. Not sure how I'll handle the humidity but thats something I'll figure out when I get there. How's the singles scene?
Yes the gym situation is great, i made an updated video on that: ua-cam.com/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/v-deo.html , As long as your a good neighbor people probably wont care about your age. Not sure about the single scene at your age down here, but who knows, if you like dating older you should be ok haha!
I've mentioned this in other content creator's videos when people talk about racial diversity in The Villages. The average age in the villages is over 70. That means we're talking about people who were born in the late 1940s. The racial demographics in the villages reflect the racial demographics of the late 1940s & early 1950s. It would be silly to expect otherwise. As newer/younger generations reach their 50s, 60s, and 70s the demographics in The Villages will reflect the demographics at the time of people's birth.
At least this man attempted to address diversity. Props to him for going there. From an outside perspective the demographics of the Villages is horrifyingly homogenous. It appears to be self segregation at its finest. This is dying a breed and I dont think younger generations will opt for this type of community.
WELL, IT DEPENDS WHERE YOU LIVE, IN FLORIDA, LOADS OF OVER 55 COMUNITIES ARE SPRINGING UP, OVER 10 THOUSAND PEOPLE RETIRE EVERYDAY, OVER 1000 PER DAY MOVING TO FLORIDA,
Thanks chief, I am a fan. I’m coming down for my lifestyle visit Thursday, I’m looking forward to experiencing the villages as a newcomer. Your videos are encouraging, I’m only 50, and I have an offer on a home for the end of may. I feel like I will have a place here, but I just need a golf cart lol! And I know what to do with that beeper!
I’m the gal who asked for that video, so I very much appreciate it too. 😃 It was super easy for my hubs to disconnect that darned beeper once he knew where it was. I sure don’t miss it, lol! Thanks again, Chief! This was a great video, and our experience too in the six months we’ve been down here south of 44. 👍🏻
I see this style of living very similar to that of condo living except the condos are detached from one another. I've heard that there is a big "swingers" group in the villages. Probably just a rumor but it's a big one lol
Great Video , I haven’t lived in The Villages for very long, but I have visited numerous times for the last 6 years. I would agree with you 100% !! New subscriber!!
I appreciated your honest commentary on the lack of racial diversity in The Villages. I am bi-racial and am considering a Florida retirement home soon for my mother and I. My mother is African-American and I have been reluctant to set up a life style visit because of the glaring lack of diversity there. I may reconsider. Jury is still out. But it is nice to hear someone address what I consider the huge elephant in the room. The other blogs I've watched while doing my due diligence have not touched on this issue, which only made me feel that no one cares about this, or sees this as a problem.
Thanks Paula! For sure do the lifestyle visit if you can, at worst it’s a nice little vacation. When I did mine it felt like a peaceful getaway, with a party just a few minutes away by golf cart at Brownwood square when ever I felt like having fun or listening to live music. I think we would all like to hear from you how it felt for you and your mom. Thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief I am definitely intrigued. I not only like an active lifestyle going forward for me but I want my mother to become more active. Everyone seems to agree that this is THE place for an extremely active retirement. Given that, I will probably set up a visit and keep an open mind.
@@PaulaFrazier-j6d Please come back and post. I am African-American and very interested in the Villages. However, there was a vidoe where a guy shout *white power* this really frighten me.
I feel like the villages is the “whitest” place in America per population size, but I do feel as with everyplace it will become more diverse with time! I also think rep dominate over Democrates maybe 2-3 to 1 but that is my own view based on the Ed McGuinty fiasco! That was wild I live in texas and I heard about it on national news! Anyone that gets to wake up everyday and truly love where they live are so fortunate!
@@TheVillagesChief Chief, this is just one (of many😂) of those “duh” moments in my life. I can’t tell you how many times I meant to delete this question. When I saw “Chief” in your name I thought you were actually put into that position within the Villages, forgetting that we UA-camrs choose our own user name. (See now why I meant to delete this question lol?). Now that you’ve responded to it, it makes sense…and fits you perfectly! How much more honorable can a person be than to serve, or have served, in our US Military? So thank you for replying to my question. I really enjoy your vids and stories. Oh and Gridley is just the cherry on top ❤️. God bless!
Great take. 👍🏼 When I retire and am recreating, the last thing I want is someone’s politics shoved in my face. Thanks for serving. I came from a small non-diverse town racially - and I learned to appreciate diversity real quick when joined boot camp.
Great video Chief ! I’ve visited The Villages on 4 separate occasions and love it. Everyone is very nice and friendly. However, zero cultural diversity, I would say 95% if not more are conservative Anglo.
No offense, Chief, But I think there is nothing wrong with people who gravitate to environments where they find commonality, whether it be Race, Heritage or Political Views. America's History and Present Day is rich with such places: Harlem, Chinatown, German, Italian, Irish, etc.
Good point Greg, no offense taken! Just be happy! I think my main point is The Villages is friendlier then some people think, of course within every large community you have sub-communities and friend's/family that are typically like minded or share similar backgrounds and interests. I grew up very much like that since my parents immigrated from Europe, it was like family, and it was good to be around others that shared the same culture, I think we can have both, especially in larger communities.
I think financial diversity has likely changed in recent years due to the super high prices homes in Florida. What blue collar worker these days can afford a 400,000 dollar home?
I agree it’s getting harder as time goes on, I guess it depends in their 401k, pension plan or lifetime of savings which is how most purchase here, or put towards the cost. Thanks for watching Stephanie
Where I live in the Pennsylvania mountains it's 99.99% white with most people having German or polish or Irish or Italian ancestry. That's all the diversity that I want😂😂😂
You are dancing as fast as you can. Most people who choose to live there are like minded. Enough to afford it. Similar interests. Political affiliation is similar. Not saying they are wrong or right. But at least acknowledge this fact. It may not be spoken out loud...but it is there.
Well I cant tell really who is gay and who isn't, I have seen a rainbow flag flying at a house and have seen bumper stickers and such that would suggest it.
Like the video. Might suggest asking yourself why the vast majority of residents are white conservatives with more than average income and money saved and or invested. The Villages is not close to being affordable to average everyday folks.
Nope…keep it just as it is - it is a well-oiled machine; extremely peaceful, lovely place to live and most importantly ZERO crime and riffraff. Keep it that way and don’t fix something that’s not broken. There’s a reason there’s no crime. We left the city for a reason.
Thanks for the video. Very informative. You didn't touch on gay couples. Of course unless they moved in next door or in the general area you really wouldn't notice. Do you think people would give them a chance to get to know them? I'm sure if I moved to The Villages there will be some neighbors I don't particularly care for but would have given them a chance. I would have to venture to say it probably wouldn't be a good idea.
I live in south St. Johns which is a small neighborhood for TV which consists of 160 homes. There are 3 gay couples that live in our neighborhood very close to us and they are just like any other couple and participate in all the neighborhood activities and other activities they enjoy. Honestly, I don't think the majority of people that live in TV really care about another's sexual orientation, race, religion, politics, etc. because we are too busy enjoying our retirements and have no time to concern ourselves with these things. And the people that do are by far a very small minority.
@@TheVillagesChief BTW, fellow retired Chief (FC) myself. Retired in 2006, then started a OSHA Hazmat Training Co in Anaheim CA. Sold business this past Nov then packed up for the southern Oregon coast. Thanks for all the work you do on your videos. I always wondered about TV. Sounds and looks like an awesome place. 👊
I’m sure there’s plenty of diversity there’s French Italian Russian English Irish Scottish German polish Swedish even Canadian it’s a wonderful low crime area full of productive people who worked hard in life were productive members of society anyone the sad would love to live in a area like this compared to the dirt filth and violence of americas urban areas
We actually moved here because I had been told The Villages was friendly but unfortunately found that NOT to be true! And it truly is cookie cutter. The traffic here is so outrageous and people flying by you on all the roundabouts is downright scary! Like you say everyone has a right to their own opinion...I am not impressed with The Villages!
Come live in France and enjoy our "diversity" and its consequences. You won't last a week and you will rush back to your place, which "scandalously" lacks diversity, with a renewed appreciation for people sharing the same values because they have the same background.
What a negative perspective of life...i live in the Netherlands, lots of diversity here...but its all about your view on life, people...LIVE AND LET LIVE ❤
@@ellakaddouri9863 I know the Netherlands and even speak some Dutch. You know as well as I do that a lot of Dutch people strongly disapprove of the forced diversity that has been forced on them in the last decades, resulting in crime exploding and your country becoming unrecognizable in cities like Rotterdam. That's your right to be woke, but do not try to impose your wokeness on others.
I should have pointed that out as well but I meant that as part as what ever your lifestyle is. There is a house down the street that’s actually flying the rainbow flag.
@Geo Cape, there are more LGBTQ+ people in The Villages (TV) than you would think. One of the largest clubs in TV is one specifically for the LGBTQ+ community. My wife and I bought in TV in 2020 and although we are the only same sex couple on our street, we have felt completely accepted by 99% of our neighbors and by people in TV, in general.
Why? Why do you care what color people are? I have a home in TV and am Hispanic. Don’t see any big deal. My experience is people who worry about this kind of thing are busybodies or just looking for a reason not to like it here
@@lowridinpacker Because you feel more comfortable, welcoming and not like an outcast if you see others like yourself. You honestly can't see the importance in that?
@@jh748 no. I am half Mexican and half white. I have grandchildren who are half Asian. I love people. Don’t care what color. There is a word for people who judge people by race.
@@TheVillagesChief It's well documented in the news and health and court records. You may not have encountered it considering the vast size of that place and who you associate with. Nothing personal against you, I'm sure you're a lovely person.
@@Firstlast-me6df no worries I didn’t take it personally, Ive seen rumors on UA-cam. When I researched the records we end up being one of the best places to live in the country stats wise. But I know it depends where you get your stats so at the end of the day I can only go by my experience and friends experiences and we don’t see any of that stuff. But I’m sure it exists, like in any good sized town. Every place has its dirty laundry. Thanks again I really do respect your opinion.
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I agree with you. I've lived here 7 years this coming August and I feel very welcomed here. At least that has been my experience. My neighbors are friendly and helpful. I'm very happy I chose The Villages to live. I think at this point in our lives, we don't have much time left. Why waste it on being hateful when you can chill out, talk to someone and get to know them. You might find that next good Friend! Thank you Chief for posting this video!
Thanks for sharing Theresa!
Are there any Caribbean and AA clubs or neighborhoods?
Thanks Chief for your perspective and willingness to address this topic. Your positive, honest and realistic assessment is truly appreciated. Retired Army here and I have learned so much from others who, thankfully, were not just like me.
Thanks so much Pilgrim Wanderings!
Chief, I am Latina. Born NYC/USA bilingual. I’ve never met such wonderful welcoming people. The music is super diverse and there are so many wonderful clubs for everyone. The shows, the food, the people are just amazing.
Not one person has ever made me feel different. Actually I’ve made so many friends. So, The Villages does not market to just one ethnicity. Party or religion.
It’s a fantastic place and I love my experience. Next week we will celebrate Cinco De Mayo, and recently St. Patty’s day. “Be the change you want the world to be.” Chief, thank you for your service and your videos. Hasta la vista baby🤗.
What a great testament, thank you so much for sharing. Hearing it from me means really nothing, hearing it from you means the world! Thanks for watching and I'll have to get out there for Cinco De Mayo!
Thank you for your candor and thoughtfulness. Mostly, thank you for your service to our country.
Thanks so much Rita!
Diversity does not have to be confrontational.
I think you stated it well that The Villages is an example of how people come to live together in harmony & just want to live their senior days to the fullest with great health, happiness with sharing good events & venues.
I’m envious that you get to experience The Village Lifestyle!
Thanks Donna!
Donna, I agree. I think we all want the same basics in life, doesn’t matter where we’re from. I’m thinking the Villages must be one of the coolest places to live in America. Thankful that we get to see it thru the Chief’s standpoint. He’s awesome!
My dad used to live in Leesburg and whenever we went to Carrabba's and talk to people who lived in The Villages they loved it. Lots of things to do in The villages whether you want to do anything or not.
thanks for sharing William!
Honestly, this is a great video. It's nice to hear these comments in the context of The Villages, but they really transcend the Villages. It's wonderful to hear this, it's an optimistic view of the way things should and could be if we would embrace this in our hearts. A very honest and authentic video, thank you for putting this out there, I hope to meet you someday and shake your hand. And thank you for your service to our country.
Thanks Tom what a nice thing to say, thanks you so much!
Thanks Chief, everyone needs a positive message about everything. The world needs more positive.
Thanks Becky!
Amen!
Human nature is such that people feel most comfortable around other people who share their values and interests.
👏🏻
Human nature is such that people love to learn from others, grow in their awareness of the world, and challenge themselves to respect the dignity of every person, no matter race, creed or gender.
@@karenmelk6848 Absolute 100% nonsense...there's not one thing positive about "diversity" except in the fantasy world of liberals. You can keep "diversity" -- and that DEI BS -- as it destroys everything around it. Brings everything down to its pathetic no-account level. Always has.
-- BR
Great video Chief and I share your perspective but we are both retired military and have been exposed to many different cultures and ethic groups throughout our career in the military. However, the word on the street is that the Villages is 86% white and a very small population of minorities. this does not mean that residence are not tolerant of each other but those were the stats that I was able to pull up when considering my move there. If I am being honest, it made me pause and started considering other 55 plus communities across that nation. Thanks again for posting this because I will now schedule a lifestyle visit to come down a see things for myself.
I'm sure that stat is close to reality, I think my view is that it's a welcoming community regardless of race. It's a catch 22 in a way, we're open to be more diverse racially, yet because it looks like we're not diverse, we get stuck with the perception that its unfriendly or something and prevents more diverse people from moving in. And for all I know that all may be true, I'm seeing this as a white guy, so how do I really know? I wish societies in general would get past all this. Thanks for watching and sharing your honest view! I hope you enjoy your visit and would love to hear your thoughts, good or bad, after your visit!
Another video from Nick Johnson says it's closer to 98% white.
It's 98% white
Love this video, I travel internationally and try to embrace all people and cultures...respect for others is the key and so appreciate your open, friendly and welcoming approach, you really represent The Villages with a genuine kindness...beautiful! Thanks for this!!!💙💚🧡
Thanks Taylor!
Thank you for your loyal service sir. Take care of yourself & each other as the best is yet to come!
Thank you so much!
Thank you for an honest review. I appreciate the time you have put into spreading the word.
My pleasure Jimmy!
Its very diverse you can play softball, golf, pickle ball, swim or workout and the bars have a wide variety of booze to choose from also. Thanks Chief these topics don't get talked about enough.
Thanks Big Pun!
Hey Chief, excellent video on a topic that no one that I know of talks about. Just recently went to an event in the Villages and I noticed that I was the only Hispanic there and yet I felt right at home and very comfortable. I moved down here from northern Illinois and yes there was plenty of diversity and along with diversity came all sorts of problems, crime, drug abuse etc. I’m not saying that there’s non of that here but the crime rates and everything that comes with it is a lot lower. I remember hearing that race/culture wise it’s something like 97% white, 3% black, Hispanic and others. A person’s faith or the color of their golf cart and political views doesn’t affect diversity, that being said this is the best decision I feel that my wife and I made moving not just to the Villages but to central Florida. Thanks for another excellent video. Stay safe🤙🏽
Thanks for sharing Victor! I would think the crime drops off because we are all older now too, and all our neighbors are older, I'm not nearly as much trouble as I was when I was a teen!
@@KingoftheNorth56 hi Victor. Are from NJ/Naples?
@@ginger7702 Nope…
I do think the Villages doesn't have enough diversity of housing. I'm mid 60's single, travel 5-6/yr. I don't want a house anymore. For me, I think there should be small condos. Easy to care for, lock and leave, and great for folks who have done the big house thing and don't care to use up so much of the earth's resources anymore. Less can be much more!
Good points Craig, thanks for watching!
There are condos in Brownwood
Birds of a feather flock together. Can’t fool Mother Nature.
Thanks for watching John
Beautiful eyes, beautiful mind and beautiful soul. Thank you for your service and thank you for being a kind human being. 🥰
Thanks so much, very kind of you
Watched all you videos and devoured a half carton of ice cream. Very enjoyable. Love your positivity.
I love ice cream ❤️❤️❤️
Good job it’s true to me that The Village is the best place to retire to. It’s been helping me with trying to enjoy the rest of my life without my wife in the picture. Even living alone there are places and things to do in The Villages. It make me get out more. In Tennessee and one year in South Carolina I mostly stayed in the house. The Villages makes you want to get out and enjoy life. I’m a combat Vietnam veteran dealing with PTSD but so far here i feel good. It’s a good VA outpatient clinic and I’m using it fully. You got a good channel like watching your videos. SEMPER FI
Awesome Ronnie thanks for sharing that and thanks for your service!
YES, THERE ARE ALSO A LOT OF COMMUNITIES FOR THE OVER 55 THAT HAVE A LOT OF ACTIVITES FOR SEN IORS
Thank you for your honesty.
Thanks Grace :)
It wouldn't be an interesting life if we were all the same. I love meeting people & knowing what they like or how they feel about certain things. You must like & care about people too or you wouldn't be making these great videos. You could definitely be a spokes person for the villages. Wow! I wish my cousin still lived in Ocala. He died last year to COVID. Was a great person. Retired police officer from VA. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts & views with us. Take care & God bless.
Hi Alice, thanks for the kind words. I’m so very sorry about your brother that’s so sad. Thanks so much for watching, God bless.
@@TheVillagesChief thanks, it was my cousin. Thank you
@@alicethomas6472 Alice I’m so sorry! I’m very sorry about your cousin. I lost my oldest brother in 2020 and I started typing that and then changed my mind and I got it mixed up in my head. I’m truly sorry.
Hi, this vlog has been helpful for me. I'm actually coming down for a Life Style Experience. Although from what I've seen on YT about The Villages, most of it are married couples or couples. I'm still coming down to check it out. Thank you for your sacrifice serving this country for our freedom, which i don't take for granted. Take care & stay safe.
There are a lot of singles here too, hope you enjoy your visit!
Thanks, and I scheduled a meeting with Robyn 😊
Great perspective, I appreciate your observations and attitude.
Thanks Clifford!
Happy Father's Day! I hope you had a great day.
Thanks!
I’m black and the people looks wonderful I would love to live there, no place is perfect and everyone looks happy there. Great video
Thanks so much!!
@@TheVillagesChief your so welcome
Well put, Chief. Coming for a second visit the month of August and this issue is the number one question I get asked when I tell friends that I'm checking out the Villages. See you in August.
Thanks Fred!
I didn’t realize that The Villages is over 55 community! Your videos want me to come and visit Villages ! Wish you have a great success in You tube channel .
It’s not a requirement to be 55 plus but most residents are, thanks for watching!
YES, OVER 55, BUT THERE IS A NEW SECTION NOW FOR YOUNGER PEOPLE, WITH CHILDREN
Good review, F-14 shirt rocks! I worked F-4's, A-4's, UH-1's Marines, flew UH-1's in the Army.
Nice!!! Thanks brother, I started on F-4’s!
@@TheVillagesChief I loved that plane! I went to ADJ school at Millington in 1977, asked for F-4's carrier duty, got UH-1's at NAS So. Weymouth MA! Good assignment and it got me interested in helos. Transferred to Army, went Warrant/flight school, did 16 more years!
Good video. I am Hispanic and have never seen an issue. You are right, most people don’t care about the color of people’s skin unless they are trying to support a political agenda. People in TV are friendly to everyone.
Thanks so much for sharing Ed!!
Thank you Mr chief for a very honest and heartfelt commentary on the villages and different areas of interest..hoping you and your furbaby have a wonderful fun filled week ahead...from a Indiana girl living on the Virginia Tennessee line 🎉
Thanks so much Sherry!
Good to get the perspective of someone who actually lives there, not someone who is just passing along what they heard. Thanks for the video!
Thanks Hoosier Mama!
Chief thanks for the info. My ethnic background is filipino. I asked someone there are asian stores around and she said yes. I need my pancit and lumpia fix. in fact a shipmate from JAX will visit us for food. good points respect on views. The navy taught us we are fighting for everyone's rights and not only our own.
Checkout GracejoyTV, she was born in the Philippines and lives in The Villages, she has a great channel and lots of good info: www.youtube.com/@GracejoyTV/featured
I have found The Villages to be friendly to all that visit or move there. It’s a very appealing lifestyle for those that are looking for relocation post retirement. However, not all people (in my friend group) want to move away from kids and grandkids in retirement, live in a multigenerational household and provide daycare or financial help. For them I recommend a vacation here. Choose what suits you!
Well said Laura :) thanks for wathcing!
STAY IN THE WINTER, AND GO BACK TO WHERE YOU CAME FROM IN THE SUMMER
Great video. Thank you for your service 🇺🇸
Thanks Trudy!
Another great video! Thanks for the info and for making these videos and thanks also for your service!🇺🇸👊✌️
Thanks again, your very kind :)
My first thought is that if you are worried about diversity instead of the amenities and the fact that it's 55+. Don't buy there.
Love this video! I don't know why, but I am always shocked when I go outside the Atlanta diversity and openness bubble. I've been looking to the villages as a potential landing spot, and it's good to hear your experiences and perspectives. Thank you!
Thanks so much for sharing!
Ty I really appreciate this
Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for this video!
Thanks J Roach!
I so agree with you!
Thanks so much!
Hi chief, how are you doing? My name is ed Williams been down for the last couple of weeks bought a house plan on moving here around 1 September I do ride ,got a road king maybe we could get together sometime and grab a coffee or a beer and you could tell me a little bit about the villages. Thanks take care.
Sounds good Ed! My email is in my about section here on my channel
Has the gym situation improved? I'm planning a lifestyle visit but I am wondering how people would feel with a guy in his late thirties moving next door. I'm coming from Idaho and want to enjoy the activities and the warm weather. Not sure how I'll handle the humidity but thats something I'll figure out when I get there. How's the singles scene?
Yes the gym situation is great, i made an updated video on that: ua-cam.com/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/v-deo.html , As long as your a good neighbor people probably wont care about your age. Not sure about the single scene at your age down here, but who knows, if you like dating older you should be ok haha!
Thank You for sharing!
You bet Donna :)
My perspective also. Very well put.
Thanks NJ Stan!
Looking forward to my visit, so many questions!
Come on down!
I've mentioned this in other content creator's videos when people talk about racial diversity in The Villages. The average age in the villages is over 70. That means we're talking about people who were born in the late 1940s. The racial demographics in the villages reflect the racial demographics of the late 1940s & early 1950s. It would be silly to expect otherwise. As newer/younger generations reach their 50s, 60s, and 70s the demographics in The Villages will reflect the demographics at the time of people's birth.
Thanks for sharing John
That’s a good point to remember.
Great commentary!!thanks for sharing your thoughts!!
Your spot on man..spot on!!
Thanks Noah!
At least this man attempted to address diversity. Props to him for going there. From an outside perspective the demographics of the Villages is horrifyingly homogenous. It appears to be self segregation at its finest. This is dying a breed and I dont think younger generations will opt for this type of community.
Thanks FisherofDreams
WELL, IT DEPENDS WHERE YOU LIVE, IN FLORIDA, LOADS OF OVER 55 COMUNITIES ARE SPRINGING UP, OVER 10 THOUSAND PEOPLE RETIRE EVERYDAY, OVER 1000 PER DAY MOVING TO FLORIDA,
Another great video thanks for sharing
Thanks Rob!
Well said.
Thanks!
God bless you Chief Jeff!! You're a very nice gentleman 🙏
Thanks Dana!
Thanks chief, I am a fan. I’m coming down for my lifestyle visit Thursday, I’m looking forward to experiencing the villages as a newcomer. Your videos are encouraging, I’m only 50, and I have an offer on a home for the end of may. I feel like I will have a place here, but I just need a golf cart lol! And I know what to do with that beeper!
Haha Talea! Glad you liked the beeper video! Good luck with the new house :)
I’m the gal who asked for that video, so I very much appreciate it too. 😃 It was super easy for my hubs to disconnect that darned beeper once he knew where it was. I sure don’t miss it, lol! Thanks again, Chief! This was a great video, and our experience too in the six months we’ve been down here south of 44. 👍🏻
Thanks and i like your straight genuine thoughtful talk🙏
Thanks!
Well said Chief...treat others as you would like to be treated.
Thanks Laura!
I see this style of living very similar to that of condo living except the condos are detached from one another. I've heard that there is a big "swingers" group in the villages. Probably just a rumor but it's a big one lol
Haha! Thanks for watching DC!
Great Video , I haven’t lived in The Villages for very long, but I have visited numerous times for the last 6 years. I would agree with you 100% !! New subscriber!!
Thanks so much Aaron!
Well said! That’s the way it should be!
Thanks Lezlie!
Excellent video!
Thanks Michelle!
I appreciated your honest commentary on the lack of racial diversity in The Villages. I am bi-racial and am considering a Florida retirement home soon for my mother and I. My mother is African-American and I have been reluctant to set up a life style visit because of the glaring lack of diversity there. I may reconsider. Jury is still out. But it is nice to hear someone address what I consider the huge elephant in the room. The other blogs I've watched while doing my due diligence have not touched on this issue, which only made me feel that no one cares about this, or sees this as a problem.
Thanks Paula! For sure do the lifestyle visit if you can, at worst it’s a nice little vacation. When I did mine it felt like a peaceful getaway, with a party just a few minutes away by golf cart at Brownwood square when ever I felt like having fun or listening to live music. I think we would all like to hear from you how it felt for you and your mom. Thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief I am definitely intrigued. I not only like an active lifestyle going forward for me but I want my mother to become more active. Everyone seems to agree that this is THE place for an extremely active retirement. Given that, I will probably set up a visit and keep an open mind.
I have watched numerous daily videos and I have yet to see any African Americans..🫨🤔
@@PaulaFrazier-j6d Please come back and post. I am African-American and very interested in the Villages. However, there was a vidoe where a guy shout *white power* this really frighten me.
@@PaulaFrazier-j6d Please don't pass up the chance to come and enjoy The Villages! You won't be sorry. Set up a lifestyle visit, then you will know!
I live in NYC.. There is no "Diversity" in Harlem and Bed Sty..
Thanks for watching Frank!
Yes, well if you notice the word diversity will never be used in such instances as the woke have taken over the term to mean "too many white people".
Thanks for the video. I’m currently doing a lifestyle visit. The village definitely needs to market more for Diversity. Thank you for your service
Thanks John, enjoy your visit!
I feel like the villages is the “whitest” place in America per population size, but I do feel as with everyplace it will become more diverse with time! I also think rep dominate over Democrates maybe 2-3 to 1 but that is my own view based on the Ed McGuinty fiasco! That was wild I live in texas and I heard about it on national news! Anyone that gets to wake up everyday and truly love where they live are so fortunate!
Thanks for watching!
ITS ALL ABOUT THE COST OF HOUSING, THE VILLAGES START AT 300 THOU TO OVER 2 MILLION, THAT DETERMINS WHO LIVES HERE
Great video and well said Brother....
Thanks Michael!
Loving the tee
Thanks!
I wonder how election season will go everywhere !! But so glad to hear your perspective… and just really love your channel!
Thanks Laura!
Yay for 55 and overs…woot woot!! 🙏🏻❤️🇺🇸🙏🏻❤️
Yes!!
@@TheVillagesChief oh…I was wondering how you got the honor of being called “The Village Chief”? If you don’t mind my asking 😊😂
Im a retired Navy Chief living in the Villages, so I thought it had a good ring to it :)
@@TheVillagesChief Chief, this is just one (of many😂) of those “duh” moments in my life. I can’t tell you how many times I meant to delete this question. When I saw “Chief” in your name I thought you were actually put into that position within the Villages, forgetting that we UA-camrs choose our own user name. (See now why I meant to delete this question lol?).
Now that you’ve responded to it, it makes sense…and fits you perfectly! How much more honorable can a person be than to serve, or have served, in our US Military?
So thank you for replying to my question. I really enjoy your vids and stories. Oh and Gridley is just the cherry on top ❤️. God bless!
Your opinion will skew the results due to bias /lack of a large sample size. The 'stats' will give a far truer result
Thanks for watching Evelyn
Great take. 👍🏼 When I retire and am recreating, the last thing I want is someone’s politics shoved in my face. Thanks for serving. I came from a small non-diverse town racially - and I learned to appreciate diversity real quick when joined boot camp.
Thanks!
Great video Chief ! I’ve visited The Villages on 4 separate occasions and love it. Everyone is very nice and friendly. However, zero cultural diversity, I would say 95% if not more are conservative Anglo.
Thanks for watching Jorgie!
You sound like you would be a great neighbor to have.
Awwwe thanks Kathy, they haven’t thrown me out yet :)
No offense, Chief, But I think there is nothing wrong with people who gravitate to environments where they find commonality, whether it be Race, Heritage or Political Views. America's History and Present Day is rich with such places: Harlem, Chinatown, German, Italian, Irish, etc.
Good point Greg, no offense taken! Just be happy! I think my main point is The Villages is friendlier then some people think, of course within every large community you have sub-communities and friend's/family that are typically like minded or share similar backgrounds and interests. I grew up very much like that since my parents immigrated from Europe, it was like family, and it was good to be around others that shared the same culture, I think we can have both, especially in larger communities.
I think financial diversity has likely changed in recent years due to the super high prices homes in Florida. What blue collar worker these days can afford a 400,000 dollar home?
I agree it’s getting harder as time goes on, I guess it depends in their 401k, pension plan or lifetime of savings which is how most purchase here, or put towards the cost. Thanks for watching Stephanie
Where I live in the Pennsylvania mountains it's 99.99% white with most people having German or polish or Irish or Italian ancestry. That's all the diversity that I want😂😂😂
You are dancing as fast as you can. Most people who choose to live there are like minded. Enough to afford it. Similar interests. Political affiliation is similar. Not saying they are wrong or right. But at least acknowledge this fact. It may not be spoken out loud...but it is there.
Thanks for watching!
YES, THERE ARE REPUBLICAN AND DEMOCRATE GROUPS IN THE VILLAGES,
Are there any Tesla owners, if so, how many? Any Cybertruck owners?
I see a lot of Tesla’s but have only seen one or two cyber trucks, thanks for watching!
Do you see many gay folks or gay couples walking around in The Villages ?
Well I cant tell really who is gay and who isn't, I have seen a rainbow flag flying at a house and have seen bumper stickers and such that would suggest it.
@GK All Day, there are LOTS of us here.
Different color golf carts
haha!
Like the video. Might suggest asking yourself why the vast majority of residents are white conservatives with more than average income and money saved and or invested. The Villages is not close to being affordable to average everyday folks.
Thanks for watching John
Nope…keep it just as it is - it is a well-oiled machine; extremely peaceful, lovely place to live and most importantly ZERO crime and riffraff. Keep it that way and don’t fix something that’s not broken. There’s a reason there’s no crime. We left the city for a reason.
Thanks for the video. Very informative. You didn't touch on gay couples. Of course unless they moved in next door or in the general area you really wouldn't notice. Do you think people would give them a chance to get to know them? I'm sure if I moved to The Villages there will be some neighbors I don't particularly care for but would have given them a chance. I would have to venture to say it probably wouldn't be a good idea.
I live in south St. Johns which is a small neighborhood for TV which consists of 160 homes. There are 3 gay couples that live in our neighborhood very close to us and they are just like any other couple and participate in all the neighborhood activities and other activities they enjoy. Honestly, I don't think the majority of people that live in TV really care about another's sexual orientation, race, religion, politics, etc. because we are too busy enjoying our retirements and have no time to concern ourselves with these things. And the people that do are by far a very small minority.
We have gay couples living in TV
@@nightengale2123 ❤️
@@robertkauffman9511 ❤️
@@TheVillagesChief BTW, fellow retired Chief (FC) myself. Retired in 2006, then started a OSHA Hazmat Training Co in Anaheim CA. Sold business this past Nov then packed up for the southern Oregon coast. Thanks for all the work you do on your videos. I always wondered about TV. Sounds and looks like an awesome place. 👊
I’m sure there’s plenty of diversity there’s French Italian Russian English Irish Scottish German polish Swedish even Canadian it’s a wonderful low crime area full of productive people who worked hard in life were productive members of society anyone the sad would love to live in a area like this compared to the dirt filth and violence of americas urban areas
Amen!
🇺🇸🙂👍❤️🤍💙
Thanks Jim!
I did a lifestyle and saw no diversity--of thought or people.
Sorry to here that Lianne
You got the thoughts on everyone who lived there. That was some visit!
We actually moved here because I had been told The Villages was friendly but unfortunately found that NOT to be true! And it truly is cookie cutter. The traffic here is so outrageous and people flying by you on all the roundabouts is downright scary! Like you say everyone has a right to their own opinion...I am not impressed with The Villages!
Sorry you had a bad experience here, but thanks for sharing 🙂
Come live in France and enjoy our "diversity" and its consequences. You won't last a week and you will rush back to your place, which "scandalously" lacks diversity, with a renewed appreciation for people sharing the same values because they have the same background.
Thanks for watching Thierry
What a negative perspective of life...i live in the Netherlands, lots of diversity here...but its all about your view on life, people...LIVE AND LET LIVE ❤
@@ellakaddouri9863 I know the Netherlands and even speak some Dutch. You know as well as I do that a lot of Dutch people strongly disapprove of the forced diversity that has been forced on them in the last decades, resulting in crime exploding and your country becoming unrecognizable in cities like Rotterdam. That's your right to be woke, but do not try to impose your wokeness on others.
Can we just shut up about diversity?
You just mentioned it again! just kidding…
@@TheVillagesChief LOL 🤭. The way I see it, the people whining about lack of diversity in any vein should not move there! Case closed! 👍
Says the white guy.
What about diversity as far as sexual orientation? Are the Villages gay friendly?
I should have pointed that out as well but I meant that as part as what ever your lifestyle is. There is a house down the street that’s actually flying the rainbow flag.
@Geo Cape, there are more LGBTQ+ people in The Villages (TV) than you would think. One of the largest clubs in TV is one specifically for the LGBTQ+ community. My wife and I bought in TV in 2020 and although we are the only same sex couple on our street, we have felt completely accepted by 99% of our neighbors and by people in TV, in general.
@@sallymasters6648 , Thank you Sally.
Quick answer, no.
Thanks for watching!
My biggest concern is lack of ethnic diversity first time time i was met a non white person was in the hospital.
Thanks for watching Rick
Why? Why do you care what color people are? I have a home in TV and am Hispanic. Don’t see any big deal. My experience is people who worry about this kind of thing are busybodies or just looking for a reason not to like it here
@@lowridinpacker Because you feel more comfortable, welcoming and not like an outcast if you see others like yourself. You honestly can't see the importance in that?
@@jh748 no. I am half Mexican and half white. I have grandchildren who are half Asian. I love people. Don’t care what color. There is a word for people who judge people by race.
Sick of DEI. If you don't like the diversity of the community go somewhere else.
Thanks for watching William
What's DEI? I'm sorry I didn't understand
@@danacaro-herman3530 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
It would be an incredibly boring life if everything and everyone is exactly the same as everyone and everything else.
@@jh748 Agreed!
So what percentage would you estimate our MAGA extremists?
I haven’t seen extremists on either side, thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief So none. Glad to hear it.
98% white isn’t very diverse.
Thanks for watching!
The bubble. Where swinging, viagra, std's and booze runs rampant.
Been here a year and haven’t seen any of that but I guess you have? Sorry to hear that, but thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief It's well documented in the news and health and court records. You may not have encountered it considering the vast size of that place and who you associate with. Nothing personal against you, I'm sure you're a lovely person.
@@Firstlast-me6df no worries I didn’t take it personally, Ive seen rumors on UA-cam. When I researched the records we end up being one of the best places to live in the country stats wise. But I know it depends where you get your stats so at the end of the day I can only go by my experience and friends experiences and we don’t see any of that stuff. But I’m sure it exists, like in any good sized town. Every place has its dirty laundry. Thanks again I really do respect your opinion.
NOT AS MUCH AS YOU THINK, BUT STILL???
Dont
Don’t?