B2 – Upper Intermediate
In recent years, a growing number of Americans have chosen to spend their golden years not on land, but at sea. Trading traditional retirement homes for cruise ships and long-term sailing adventures, retirees are embracing a lifestyle of exploration, comfort, and convenience. Whether drawn by the appeal of seeing the world or the surprisingly cost-effective amenities, this unconventional retirement trend is reshaping the way we think about life after work.
Watch the video and be able to answer the questions below.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “golden years” mean? “America is seeing a boom in retirements as baby boomers sail into their golden years.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.
- What does the phrase “rolled into one” mean? “On board, the 69-year-old gets everything rolled into one: meals, travel, entertainment and housing.” Make a sentence using the phrase and give a synonym.
- What does the phrase “kick off” mean? “A loyal following is one reason why Holland America has kicked off two of these cruises simultaneously for the first time.” Use it in your own sentence and give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think retiring at sea is a practical and sustainable lifestyle choice? Why or why not?
- Would you personally consider living on a cruise ship during retirement? Why or why not?
- Is it better to spend retirement exploring new places or staying close to family and home? Share your perspective.
- What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of retiring on a cruise ship compared to a traditional retirement home?
- How might this trend impact the cruise industry and retirement planning in the future?