If you’re feeling frustrated with your current housing situation, consider the story of a man who decided to make a cruise ship his home two decades ago.
Today, finding affordable housing, whether you’re looking to buy or rent, is a significant challenge. Whether it’s an apartment, house, or any other type of dwelling, the financial burden can be overwhelming.
In response, some individuals have opted for unconventional living arrangements.
For instance, Mario Salcedo, a Cuban man, made the bold decision to live at sea on a cruise ship over 20 years ago when he was 47. He appears to have no regrets about his choice.
Salcedo is now living a content life and has earned the nickname ‘Super Mario’ from the crew aboard the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas.
Sharing insights on his financial management while living on the cruise ship, Salcedo detailed some of his expenditures and described what life is like on a home that sails across the globe.
In a 2021 interview with All Things Cruise, he mentioned: “I’m so used to being on ships that it feels more comfortable to me than being on land.”
“For 23 years. Always on Royal Caribbean. It’s the best lifestyle I can find. More than 9,000 nights cruising with Royal Caribbean, 52 weeks a year. Cruising never gets old.”
Salcedo has mentioned that he maintains a strict budget, spending approximately $100 daily on basic expenses, although he notes that extra costs can accumulate quickly.
To minimize expenses, he often stays around the Caribbean, but traveling further afield would require additional funds.
In 2019, he pointed out that an inside cabin without a window could cost $72,093 annually.
This amount increases to $101,258 for a cabin with a balcony and rises to $136,000 for a junior suite.
Salcedo also remarked that these yearly costs are still below those associated with moving into an assisted-living facility, making it a worthwhile lifestyle choice for him.