by: Elaine VonCannon
Williamsburg Virginia is a familiar name for many because it is steeped in colonial history. In the 1920s, Rockefeller sunk millions into the renovation of historic homes, pubs, and properties. Today, Williamsburg is an early American gem, as well as a mecca for retirement.
A Temperate Climate
The greater Williamsburg area includes James City and York Counties, and these areas are also steeped in early American history. Many retirees prefer this part of Southeastern Virginia because it has a temperate climate and an excellent mid point location on the Eastern seaboard. The temperature in winter months rarely dips below 40 or 30 degrees, and snow is a rarity. For six to eight months out of the year, temperatures range from 55-90 degrees.
Gardening
For the plant lover, this area of Virginia represents the northernmost tip of a sub-tropical zone, so the variety of plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees are vast. Outdoor gardening can be done 9-10 months out of the year. Near coastal or tidal areas a good deal of the soil is mixed with sand, which makes for fertile gardening.
Birding
Bird lovers will find it an excellent place for birding, because it's a flyover zone for many species of migrating birds heading south for the winter. From November through March, there are an abundance of flocks of feathered visitors to the area.
Golfing in Williamsburg
The golfing enthusiast will find much to love in Williamsburg. There are 10 major golf courses in and around the Wiliamsburg area. Three highly regarded courses are located at Kingsmill, Fords Colony, and the Golden Horsehoe , James City County and York County. Williamsburg is known for its highly coveted signature golf courses.
Low Property Taxes
Many retirees relocate to the Williamsburg area because the property taxes are much lower than other regions. In the City of Williamsburg property tax is.57 cents per hundred dollars (as of 2005.) Bordering James City County is currently.87 per hundred and York County is.86 per hundred.
Williamsburg’s Proximity to Norfolk and Richmond
Williamsburg is situated between Norfolk and Richmond, each approximately 45 minutes away. Both cities have international airports, and larger cultural and sports venues to choose from. Norfolk is home to the largest Naval Base on the East Coast, and Richmond has preserved some of the olde southern charm that once made it capital of the South.
Continuing Education
The Christopher Wren Association for Lifelong Learning is part of the prestigious College of William and Mary. Continuing Education courses are offered for adults interested in such areas as historical, cultural, and technological education. Other topic areas are included in Lifelong Learning and are geared towards the mature adult audience.
Cultural Events in Williamsburg
Diverse and interesting cultural events are available regularly in the city of Williamsburg. A sampling of this includes, Williamsburg Symphony, Shakespeare Festival at the College of William & Mary, Williamsburg Library performances, Colonial Williamsburg Early American Theater and Colonial Williamsburg Living History Performances. There are other historical and local seasonal diversions.
If you do not like your relatives and friends visiting you frequently, don’t move to Southeastern Virginia or Williamsburg. The Tidewater area and Williamsburg is a premiere tourist destination. You’ll find your home filled with long lost acquaintances, family members, and friends with plenty of activities to choose from to keep everyone interested and happy.