How to Really Rest
This is an edition of The Wonder Reader, a newsletter in which our editors recommend a set of stories to spark your curiosity and fill you with delight. Sign up here to get it every Saturday morning.
Trying to get better at relaxing might sound silly. Isn't the point of relaxing to not work at all? But as Arthur C. Brooks points out in a recent article, 'doing leisure well will generate the sort of growth in our well-being that work cannot provide.' In order to get to that place of growth, 'we must treat it with every bit as much seriousness as we do our careers,' he argues. Part of that process is redefining what rest and relaxation look like. When you hear the word rest, you might think of idleness, or just sleep. But experts on rest (yes, they exist) have highlighted the importance of more active types of relaxation, too, such as exercise or pursuing hobbies. Today's newsletter explores how to rest.
On Rest and Leisure
You Can Do Leisure Better, Seriously
By Arthur C. Brooks
If you think of personal time only as 'not work,' you could be missing out on truly enriching experiences.
Read the article.
Aristotle's 10 Rules for a Good Life
By Arthur C. Brooks
An ancient Greek recipe for happiness
Read the article.
What Is Rest, Anyway?
By Becca Rashid and Ian Bogost
There's a difference between leisure and laziness.
Listen.
Still Curious?
How to have your most fulfilling vacation ever: Turning your leisure into learning offers the happiest holiday experience of all, Arthur C. Brooks wrote in 2023.
The free-time paradox in America: The rich were meant to have the most leisure time. The working poor were meant to have the least. The opposite is happening, Derek Thompson wrote in 2016. Why?
Other Diversions
The drink Americans can't quit
Susan Sontag's vision
Winners of the 2025 World Press Photo Contest
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Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
These are the 12 best places in Texas to live in 2025. Is your city one of them?
Texas embodies American culture with cowboy traditions, Tex-Mex cuisine, wide-open land, and (usually) mild winters in the southern regions. Known for its relatively low cost of living and abundant opportunities, it's a popular destination for Americans moving or staying long-term. A study by online educational site WorldAtlas examined the key factors attracting residents to various cities, including affordability, access to nature, healthcare, education and safety. The 12 places that made the 2025 list represent Texas' diverse cities and small towns, which cater to individual and family preferences. Did your city make the list? Here's a breakdown of what the top-ranking places had to offer to residents. People are also reading: 3 Texas cities land on US News' top 10 best places to live list — and they're all suburbs Austin is renowned as the 'Live Music Capital of the World,' boasting vibrant energy, an abundance of entertainment, and diverse cultural activities. Here are some highlights: Austin is more expensive than other Texas cities. Median home prices: ~$550,000; average rent: $1,400 (1-bedroom). The largest cost is housing; other expenses, such as groceries, dining, and utilities, are average. No state income tax, but high property taxes (~2% of home value). Strong job growth is fueled by tech giants like Tesla and Apple. Other key industries: healthcare, finance, education, and skilled trades. Home to The University of Texas at Austin and excellent school districts like Eanes ISD and Leander ISD, known for high math and reading proficiency. Top-rated hospitals include St. David's Medical Center and Ascension Seton Medical Center. Reliable walk-in clinics include Texas MedClinic and CareNow Urgent Care. Crime rates are higher than the national average; however, 60% of locals feel generally safe. Safest neighborhoods: Allandale, Garrison Park, Hyde Park. Renowned live music venues: Broken Spoke, Saxon Pub, The White Horse, Antone's. Diverse food scene: Tex-Mex and restaurants like Matt's El Rancho and Cooper's BBQ. Outdoor activities include trails (e.g., Barton Creek Greenbelt), parks, and swimming spots (such as Barton Springs and Deep Eddy Pool). Festivals: SXSW, Pecan Street Festival. Great weather most of the year; hot and humid summers. Popular summer spots: Lady Bird Lake, Barton Springs, Lake Travis (paddleboarding, swimming). It's best to use a car, especially during rush hours on Mondays through Fridays (7-8 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.). Other options include Capital Metro Bus, Metrorail, bike and scooter rentals, and rideshares. A blend of artsy, quirky, and progressive energy with a thriving tech scene. Austin maintains its unique culture while embracing newcomers. Tyler, also known as the "Rose Capital of America," has a population of just under 110,000 and is ranked as one of the best places to live in Texas for families. Housing costs are 8% lower than the national average. Overall cost of living is 4–10% lower than the national average. Healthcare is the largest employer, providing around 25,000 full-time jobs. New medical facilities attract medical professionals, families, and retirees. Tyler Independent School District is highly rated, offering 17 elementary schools, six middle schools, and four high schools. Post-graduation options include the University of Texas at Tyler, which offers a medical school and nursing programs. Major institutions include UT Health East Texas, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances, and the Veterans Clinic. Northeast Texas Cancer and Research Institute specializes in oncology and research. Safest neighborhoods: Cherokee Trail area, Hollytree, Copeland, Swan. Crime rates are above the national average, with 1 in 45 chances of being a victim. Known for its food scene with over 100 food trucks and local favorites like Gino's Tacos and Stanley's BBQ. Thriving music venues and festivals like the annual Texas Rose Festival. Popular spots include the Rose Rudman Recreational Trail (for walking, biking, and playgrounds) and Tyler State Park (featuring trails, fishing, and swimming). Personal vehicles are the main mode of transport. Alternatives: Tyler Transit buses, rideshares, and taxis; discounted bus fares are available for Medicare recipients and senior citizens. Ideal for families, retirees, and healthcare workers attracted by affordability, healthcare access, a welcoming atmosphere, and small-town charm. Houston, also known as 'Space City,' is the fourth-largest city in the United States, renowned for its endless entertainment options, professional sports, and thriving culinary scene. Average rent: ~$1,400 for a one-bedroom; median home value: ~$265,000. More affordable housing compared to similar-sized cities, though groceries and transportation are slightly higher. Diverse job opportunities in energy, healthcare, aerospace, technology, and education. Major employers include the Texas Medical Center, ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Shell. Over 60 school districts, numerous private schools, and 40+ colleges, including Rice University and the University of Houston. 50 trade and business schools serving fields like law, welding, tech, and healthcare. Top-ranked hospitals include Houston Methodist and Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center. Retiree resources: Harris County Area Agency on Aging and The Living Legacy Center. Rich arts scene with venues like Houston Grand Opera, Ballet, Ensemble Theatre, and Museum District. Sports teams: Houston Astros (MLB), Texans (NFL), Rockets (NBA). Outdoor attractions: public parks (e.g., Alexander Deussen Park, Brazos Bend State Park), trails, and dog-friendly spaces. High crime rate (56 per 1,000 residents). Downtown is ideal for young professionals and creatives, while the western and southwestern suburbs are family-friendly, offering good schools. Public transit options include MetroRail, Metro Bus, MetroRapid, taxis, and rideshares. High congestion rates; carpooling and public transit are common strategies. Offers incredible amenities for all demographics with standout options for food, healthcare, arts, and outdoor activities. Plano, situated in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is renowned for its safety, affordability, and high quality of life. Frequently ranks as a top 'best places to live' city. Rent and home prices are 27% higher than the national average. Average rent: ~$2,000/month; median home price: ~$635,000. Utilities are 14% above the national average. Major employers: JPMorgan Chase, Capital One Finance, and PepsiCo. Leading industries: financial services and healthcare. The Plano Independent School District is highly rated, boasting a 15:1 student-teacher ratio and strong proficiency in both math and reading. Colleges nearby: Collin College, UT Dallas, and the University of Dallas. Notable facilities include Children's Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital, and Texas Back Institute. Comprehensive options for primary care, senior care, and specialized services. Shopping hubs: Shops at Legacy and Downtown Plano Arts District. Outdoor activities: Oak Point Park and Arbor Hills Nature Preserve with biking, running, and walking trails. Unique attraction: Texas Pool, shaped like the Lone Star State. An exceptionally safe city; the probability of violent crime is just 1 in 617. Family-friendly neighborhoods: Puckett, Sleepy Hollow, South Park, and The Colonies. Predominantly personal vehicles for commuting. Public transportation options include DART, Trinity Railway Express, and rideshares. Carpooling is popular. Mid-sized, family-friendly city with a suburban atmosphere and strong amenities. Slow but steady growth, bolstered by corporate expansion and opportunities in healthcare and finance industries. The coastal city of Corpus Christi is renowned for its beaches, welcoming community, and laid-back atmosphere. Average rent: ~$1,200/month; median home price: ~$350,000. Housing costs: 4% lower than the state average and 21% lower than the national average. Major industries: energy, education, and tourism. Corpus Christi Independent School District has above-average rankings and a 92% graduation rate. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi offers small class sizes and a scenic campus. Higher crime rates when compared to cities of similar size. Safe neighborhoods include the Texas A&M University area, Padre Island south, and Chapman Ranch. Family-friendly North Beach offers a range of amenities and restaurants. Popular beaches for adventure: North Packery Beach (surfing, wakeboarding, kiteboarding). Known for seafood: Water Street Oyster Bar and Snoopy's Pier are local favorites. Four major hospitals, including Corpus Christi Medical Center Bay Area as a leading facility. Residents mainly rely on personal vehicles. Alternatives include rideshares (Uber/Lyft), motorized scooters in downtown areas, and the Corpus Christi RTA. Ideal for beach lovers with Texas charm. Suitable for young professionals, families, and retirees. El Paso is a diverse city at the foot of the Franklin Mountains near the Mexico border, offering affordable living and a vibrant culture. Median housing price: ~$170,000 (2024). Average rent: under $1,000 per month. Overall housing costs are lower than the national average and significantly cheaper than cities like Houston or Austin. Major industries: government, retail trade, social assistance, and healthcare. Best school district: Ysleta Independent School District (A- rating, 15:1 student-teacher ratio). Colleges: University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso Community College, and Western Tech. Low crime rate compared to cities of similar size and the national average. Popular areas to live include El Segundo Barrio, Mission Hills, and Sunset Heights. Most residents rely on personal vehicles. Alternatives include the Sun Metro bus system and rideshare services. Trusted facilities: Kindred Hospital El Paso and El Paso Children's Hospital. Outdoor activities: hiking, biking, and climbing at Aguirre Springs, Anthony's Nose Trail, and Comanche Peak. Music: Lowbrow Palace hosts performances. Dining: Restaurants like Weso Steakhouse and Conico Cocina Mexicana are local favorites. Safe, family-friendly city with affordable cost of living and rich cultural festivals and traditions. Fort Worth blends cowboy culture with modern city living, catering to nearly one million residents. Its thriving job market also attracts young professionals and families. Above-average costs for Texas and nationally. Average rent: ~$1,500/month for a one-bedroom; median home price: ~$300,000. Comfortable family income: $100,000+ annually. Key industries: aerospace, manufacturing, education, gas/oil. The Fort Worth Independent School District has a mixed performance but is showing improvement. Nearby alternatives: Euless-Carroll, Arlington school districts, or private schools. Local colleges: Texas Christian University (private) and Texas Wesleyan. Crime rate: 31 per 1,000 residents, higher than the national average but lower than those of Austin and Houston. Safest neighborhoods: Lake of River Trails, Haslet South. Iconic spots: Fort Worth Stockyards, Billy Bob's (live music), Cowtown Coliseum (rodeo). Outdoor activities: Trinity River trails (100+ miles), Fort Worth Nature Center (20 miles of hiking), and the Japanese Garden. Celebrations: Main Street Arts Festival and Mayfest. Food: Texas BBQ and Tex-Mex options like Woodshed Smokehouse and Los Mocajetes. Trinity Metro railway express connects with Dallas' DART system. Ridesharing and bus services are available. Excellent medical facilities: Medical City Fort Worth and UT Southwestern Medical Center. Ideal for young professionals seeking city life, post-graduate opportunities, and diverse entertainment options. Denton, located 40 miles from Dallas, is a mid-sized city with a population of approximately 160,000 (2023). It offers opportunities for young graduates, families, and musicians seeking a smaller city vibe. Median home price: ~$500,000, above state and national averages. Average rent: ~$1,500/month. Median household income: ~$73,000/year. Major employers include Peterbilt Motors, Sally Beauty, and Acme Brick. Key industries: higher education (Texas Woman's University) and healthcare. The Denton Independent School District boasts a 97% graduation rate and high proficiency levels. 91 private schools are available as alternatives. State universities: University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University. Known for live music with venues like Steve's Wine Bar (jazz) and Dan's Silverleaf (local performers and open mic). Outdoor recreation: 37 trails for biking/running, 41 parks, and 4 golf courses within the city. Food scene: Popular for BBQ and Tex-Mex—favorites include Juicy Pig Barbecue and Mi Ranchito. Crime rate: 1 in 39 chance of becoming a victim, higher than other Texas cities. Safest neighborhoods: Ponder, Copper Creek, Lake Forest Park. Public options: DART system, Denton County Transportation Authority buses and rail. Most residents prefer to commute using private vehicles. Top facilities include Texas Health Denton and Medical City Denton Hospital. A desirable mid-size city with ample amenities, accessible to larger cities while retaining a small-town charm. San Antonio combines rich history, like The Alamo, with modern amenities, attracting new residents for its affordability, job opportunities, and educational options. More affordable than Austin or Dallas. Median home price: under $300,000; average rent: ~$1,200/month. Major industries: military, hospitality, education, and healthcare. Anticipated growth in tech and new energy sectors. 17 school districts and a mix of private and public schools. Top districts: BASIS Texas Charter and Alamo Heights ISD. Higher education options include Trinity University, a highly rated institution. Venues: AT&T Center, Alamodome. Family attractions include Six Flags, SeaWorld, and the San Antonio Zoo. Popular destination: 15-mile Riverwalk for recreation and tourism. Crime rates remain high despite recent decreases. Property crime odds: 1 in 19. Safest neighborhoods: Timberwood Park, Sendero Verde, Champions Ridge. Public transit: VIA Metropolitan Transit and rideshare services. Most residents use personal vehicles for commuting. Methodist Hospital is a top-rated medical facility in the city. Ideal for history buffs and those seeking affordable living with cultural and recreational opportunities. Georgetown is a suburb of Austin, located 30 minutes north, with a population exceeding 100,000. It's known for low crime rates and family-friendly appeal. Median home price: ~$465,000; rent: $1,400–$1,900/month. 17% higher cost of living compared to national levels. Average household income: ~$87,000 annually. Major industries: healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and professional services. Georgetown Independent School District offers a high graduation rate (93.9%). Southwestern University offers majors such as business, psychology, and biology. Known for the 'Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas,' with unique spots like Lark & Owl Booksellers and Goodfolks restaurant. Outdoor activities include Lake Georgetown (with swimming, fishing, and a 28-mile trail), as well as Inner Space Cavern tours. Crime rate: 39% lower than the national average. Safe neighborhoods: Berry Creek and Teravista. Reliable healthcare options: St. David's Georgetown Hospital and Georgetown Clinics. Limited public transit (CARTS bus service). Residents primarily use personal vehicles or rideshare services. Ideal for families seeking a safe, walkable community and proximity to Austin without the busy city atmosphere. The North Texas city of Dallas is the third-most populous city in the state. It's known for its diversity, affordable housing, and attractions for varying lifestyles. Dallas is also home to three major sports teams: Cowboys (NFL), Mavericks (NBA), and Stars (NHL). Housing costs are 2% lower than the national average. Median home price: ~$472,000; rent: $1,500–$2,000/month (location-dependent). Major industries: IT, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Employers with headquarters in Dallas: AT&T, Verizon, and Toyota Motor of North America. The Dallas Independent School District has 240 schools with additional public charter and private school options. The top-rated School for the Talented and Gifted ranks in the top ten nationally. Higher education options include Dallas Baptist University and the University of Texas at Dallas. Sports: Professional football, basketball, and hockey events year-round. Music venues: Moody Performance Hall, The Bomb Factory, Granada Theatre. BBQ favorites: OAK'D BBQ and Hurtado (brisket tacos). Highlights: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden (seasonal events), Dallas Zoo, Dallas World Aquarium, and trails around White Rock Lake. Crime rate: 48 per 1,000 residents, with significant violent crime and vehicle theft. Safest neighborhoods: Lake Highlands West, Preston Hollow, Russwood Acres. An extensive highway network with rush hour congestion. Public transit: DART system (light rail, buses) and ridesharing services are available. Notable facility: UT Southwestern Medical Center. Offers robust career opportunities for young graduates and amenities for growing families. Abundant entertainment and cultural events make Dallas lively and dynamic despite its high crime rates. McKinney is a smaller town, around 30 miles north of Dallas. It offers a slower pace, perfect for families and retirees. Average home price: ~$490,000; monthly rent: ~$1,600. Average annual salaries range from $30,000 to $65,000. Major employers include Raytheon Intelligence & Space, Independent Financial, and Encore Wire. McKinney Independent School District boasts a 97.2% graduation rate. Teachers have an average of 12+ years of experience. Outdoor activities: An extensive trail system and Towne Lake Recreation area (ideal for kayaking). Entertainment: The Comedy Arena and historic downtown. Popular dining spot: Rick's Chophouse. Crime rate: 10 per 1,000 residents (50% lower than the Texas average). Safest neighborhoods: Chambliss, Avondale, Weston. Residents primarily use vehicles; ridesharing and public transit (Collin County Transit) are available. Unique downtown Trolley offers a free, scenic way to get around. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center is the leading hospital in McKinney. A safe, family-friendly town with excellent schools, welcoming neighborhoods, and proximity to Dallas' amenities. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Do you live in one of 2025's best places to live in Texas? See list
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
The Post-America Moms Club Helping Families Start Over in Europe
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. One wrong turn in Mallorca, and Suset Laboy was texting 70 other mothers for help. She was driving her four-year-old twin daughter to school earlier this year when she swerved to avoid a serious crash, but still got rear-ended. She was fine. Her daughter was fine. But her heart was racing, and she had no idea what to do next in a country with rules she didn't fully understand. Back in Brooklyn, where she'd lived for 14 years before moving abroad, she would've known exactly how to handle it. In Spain, she opened WhatsApp. The thread she turned to wasn't just any group chat—it was Mother Euro, a growing community and relocation service founded by two American moms to support women who've left the U.S. behind in search of something better. Part concierge, part lifeline, Mother Euro connects moms with everything from visa lawyers to pediatricians to the best iced coffee in town. The network currently includes 80 members, and while most are based in Spain, the U.K. is their second-largest hub, with plans to expand across other European markets. 'I didn't feel comfortable living in the U.S. anymore,' says Alice Kim, an American citizen and Mother Euro member who moved from California back to her birthplace, Seoul, before settling in Barcelona with her husband and two-year-old son. 'I was worried about the political climate. My friends raising their kids there would talk about gun violence and how the kids would have to prepare for breathing without their chest moving. Our American dream really got shattered.' Kim isn't alone. A growing number of Americans are considering or actively planning to relocate to Europe, driven by concerns over political and social issues, including racial equity and LGBTQ+ rights. Relocation firms have reported increased inquiries, citing political polarization, threats to personal rights, and safety concerns. Applications for British citizenship by Americans have reached record highs. The day after Trump's second election, Google searches for how to leave the U.S. spiked by over 1,500 percent. Even celebrities have made exit plans: Rosie O'Donnell moved to Ireland in March. Ellen DeGeneres reportedly relocated to the U.K. last fall, as did Courtney Love. We're not just a relocation service. We're a village. We want to build each other up. For mothers in particular, the push factors are hard to ignore. The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed countries, and since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, access to life-saving care can depend on your zip code. Meanwhile, child care costs have soared—averaging $11,582 annually, according to Child Care Aware of America—and in many places, the cost of caring for two children now exceeds the cost of housing. So last fall two American moms, Emily San Jose, 34, and Maggie Gavilán, 32, launched Mother Euro, a membership-based community designed to help women navigate the move abroad and build a life once they're there. Aspiring members pay $1,500 a year for full relocation support, while Resident members who are already living abroad pay $500 annually to join a network of local moms and access the group's resources, meetups, and ongoing assistance. It's part WhatsApp hive mind, part on-the-ground network for everything from kids' weird rashes to the best local cafés to hit with toddlers in tow. It's also where a member can seek advice when, say, she's rear-ended in a new country and not sure how insurance works in Spain. 'We're not just a relocation service. We're a village,' says Gavilán. 'We want to build each other up. A traditional relocation specialist is going to be, you know, the guy that your dad's company set you up with. He's gonna show you, you know, the best moving company. And we have all those things, but we bring in the emotional factor that we know is so important as women and as moms.' In addition to real estate agents and top-notch immigration lawyers, Mother Euro connects members with nutritionists, multilingual therapists, and barre studios. When I mention someone who moved to Spain to access IVF, which is significantly cheaper there than in the U.S., Gavilán jumps in: 'Do we have a partner for IVF? Not yet. But if you need one tomorrow? We'll find them.' Most moms hear about Mother Euro through San Jose, the Madrid-based cofounder better known as @MamaInMadrid. The Oregon native moved to Spain immediately after college, with a plan to stay for a year, make money as an au pair, and travel in her free time. One month later, she met her Spanish husband. They eventually moved back to the Pacific Northwest for five years, but returned to Spain in 2021 to be closer to family. Online, San Jose is poised, mixing aspirational ease with dry humor in near-perfect Castilian Spanish. Take, for example, the blackout in Spain and Portugal in April. In a post about it on Instagram, San Jose tells the camera she was in the gym when it happened—aspirational!—and says, 'I went into flight or fight mode. My husband says that that is a very American reaction, to sort of catastrophize things. Fine with me if that's going to be my reaction in this situation.' Relatable! Among 30-something U.S. expats, San Jose is a bit of a celebrity. Proof: When I told a Spanish acquaintance that I was interviewing American moms in Madrid, she squeed, 'Do you know MamaInMadrid?!' Further proof: Gavilán, Mother Euro's cofounder, DMed San Jose last year when she was considering moving to Madrid, too. She has dual citizenship and wanted to be closer to her family. 'I saw this really pretty blonde girl living in Spain, speaking fluent Spanish, and I was like, maybe she'll be my friend,' she says. They met for drinks the next time Gavilán visited, shut down the bar, and took a few blurry two a.m. selfies. Gavilán got pregnant soon after, and started seriously planning her family's relocation. 'Raising children and even just being a pregnant woman in the States, transparently, felt really scary,' she says. 'So I wanted to give my kids and myself, selfishly—and I can be selfish—a better life.' Of course, moving to Europe isn't always as romantic as it sounds. There are visas to secure, cultural nuances to decode, and costs to consider. (Gavilán estimates relocation costs around $15,000, though it varies widely.) As she navigated her own move, friends and strangers began reaching out for advice. 'I'm telling you, I was on the phone until two a.m. sometimes trying to help moms with finding the right attorney or with the right education consultant because they didn't understand the nuances between the US and EU system and how that would work, which, I didn't either when I was figuring it out,' she says. That's when she realized there was a real need for a service that could guide women through it—not just logistically, but emotionally. 'People want to do this,' she says. 'But they want to feel as though they're in community with somebody doing it, either at the same time, or who has already done it—and also somebody who they want to hang out with.' Raising children and even just being a pregnant woman in the States, transparently, felt really scary. Though most of the Mother Euro action happens online, the group hosted its first IRL event in April: a dinner party in Madrid to celebrate the official launch. Thirty women flew in from Costa Brava, Mallorca, and London.'There were so many badass women there,' says Kim, who traveled from Barcelona to attend. During an icebreaker, members were first instructed to 'step in' if they were born in the U.S. For the second prompt, they were asked to take a step in if they were a business owner. 'I think three-fourths of the room stepped in,' she says. 'After that I was like, I'm going to have to step up my game.' She sat next to Heather, an American mom who's lived in Europe for 17 years, and peppered her with questions about schooling. Heather insisted on local schools over international ones. 'Now I'm leaning local too,' Kim says. 'Because more and more I feel like I don't want my son to go to a U.S. college after living all his adolescence in Europe. It would feel like a back step.' Mother Euro is expensive, on top of all the other costs that go into moving your life somewhere else, and it's not not luxury service. But it's one that 200-plus women are willing to pay; that's how many applicants Gavilán says they've been receiving per month. One aspiring member, who is planning a move to Madrid after her second child is born, says her membership has already been worth it. She explained that it was especially helpful for navigating Spain's Beckham Law, which allows foreign workers to pay significantly less in income tax than Spanish citizens, and far less than they would in the U.S. Still, upending your life to relocate to Europe isn't a panacea, nor is it easy. Moving abroad is a privilege and a struggle—both things can be true. Even the founders are still figuring things out as they go along: Gavilán is currently weighing public versus private hospitals in Madrid for her C-section; Laboy misses the diversity of Brooklyn. But for Laboy, the hardest part has been leaving her sister and parents behind. 'It feels sad, and at the same time, it feels like the right choice for us at this very moment,' she says, tears forming. 'It's very important for me to recognize that this move is a privilege that not everybody has.' 'Still,' she adds, 'living here feels like an exhale.' This community really helps me mentally. Mother Euro affirms something mothers around the world have always known: When women are part of the conversation, everyone wins. '[Our launch dinner party] reminded us that mothers will travel near and far to be seen, supported, and celebrated by their communities,' Gavilán recapped over email after the event. 'Listening to everyone share their stories on why they moved, what they're seeking, and how they're building their lives abroad—it was a powerful affirmation of why we created this space.' It also proves that no matter where you are, whether you're figuring out tax residency or just daycare culture, motherhood still takes a village. Like when Kim's son came home from his Spanish daycare with a goodie bag. 'I was like, 'Wait, was there a birthday party I didn't know about? Am I missing something? Do I need to send a gift?'' So she hit up the Mother Euro chat, where San Jose explained that in Spain, the birthday kid gifts their friends—instead of the other way around. The same goes for adults: if you host the dinner, you pick up the check. 'This community really helps me mentally,' Kim says. She's since made a real-life friend in Barcelona through Mother Euro, and the two are going to an Imagine Dragons concert this summer. 'Making friends when you're older is harder, but within Mother Euro, we all have so many commonalities that it just helps us click. I'm confident that whoever is in it shares the same values.' And after arriving in Spain in February, she hasn't looked back.
CBS News
2 days ago
- CBS News
What happens to an annuity when a person dies?
We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. An annuity can provide reliable retirement income, but it's important to know whether it will continue to pay your loved ones after you die. Getty Images In today's uncertain financial climate, many Americans are turning to annuities as a way to guarantee income during retirement. With inflation cooling but still problematic, market volatility causing jitters and traditional pensions nearly extinct, annuities offer something rare: predictable, steady payouts for life. But while retirees often understand the basics of how annuities work during their lifetime, there's one question that doesn't always get asked soon enough: What happens to that annuity when the person who owns it dies? It's an important question, especially if you're counting on that annuity to support a surviving spouse or want to leave something behind for your children. And, the answer depends on several factors, including the type of annuity purchased and the options selected at the time of signing the contract. That's why understanding the potential outcomes ahead of time is key. If you don't plan ahead, that stream of income could dry up, and in some cases, the insurer might keep the remainder of the money. So, whether you're shopping for an annuity, currently receiving payouts or managing a loved one's estate, it's critical to know what happens to an annuity after the annuitant dies. Find out how to add an annuity to your retirement portfolio today. What happens to an annuity when a person dies? What happens to an annuity after death depends largely on the type of annuity and the contract terms set in place. Here's what happens with the common types of annuities after the person who owns it dies: Single life annuity : If the annuity is a single life annuity, meaning that it's set to pay income only for the life of the annuitant, the payments usually stop once the person dies. That means even if the annuitant dies early into the payout period, the insurance company keeps the remaining balance. This might sound harsh, but it's part of the tradeoff for getting higher monthly payments while the person is alive. : If the annuity is a single life annuity, meaning that it's set to pay income only for the life of the annuitant, the payments usually stop once the person dies. That means even if the annuitant dies early into the payout period, the insurance company keeps the remaining balance. This might sound harsh, but it's part of the tradeoff for getting higher monthly payments while the person is alive. Joint and survivor annuity : Joint and survivor annuities are a common option for married couples who want to make sure both spouses are covered. If the annuity was structured as a joint and survivor annuity, payments continue to the surviving spouse or named joint annuitant after the original annuitant passes away. That said, the amount may be the same or reduced, depending on the contract. : Joint and survivor annuities are a common option for married couples who want to make sure both spouses are covered. If the annuity was structured as a joint and survivor annuity, payments continue to the surviving spouse or named joint annuitant after the original annuitant passes away. That said, the amount may be the same or reduced, depending on the contract. Fixed period or period certain annuity : Some annuities include a "period certain" feature, which guarantees payments for a set number of years — like 10 or 20 — regardless of whether the annuitant is alive. If the annuitant dies before that period ends, the remaining payments are made to a designated beneficiary. : Some annuities include a "period certain" feature, which guarantees payments for a set number of years — like 10 or 20 — regardless of whether the annuitant is alive. If the annuitant dies before that period ends, the remaining payments are made to a designated beneficiary. Refund options: Other annuities include refund provisions. For example, a cash refund annuity ensures that if the total amount paid out doesn't equal the original investment, the remaining amount is refunded to a beneficiary. This helps ensure that some of the money goes to heirs, even if the annuitant dies early. It's worth noting that in most cases, any payments made to a beneficiary after the annuitant dies are considered taxable income. However, the taxation details depend on whether the annuity was qualified (funded with pre-tax dollars) or non-qualified. Compare your annuity options and secure a reliable retirement income stream now. How to make sure your annuity benefits your loved ones If you're worried about your loved ones' ongoing financial needs, there are steps you can take to make sure your annuity continues to support your family after you die. That said, it takes a bit of upfront planning and a clear understanding of the contract terms to get it right. Start by carefully reviewing the death benefit provisions in your annuity. If you're still in the accumulation phase (i.e., you haven't started receiving payments yet), check whether your contract includes a death benefit rider. This rider can guarantee that your beneficiaries receive the greater of your account value or the total premiums paid, even if your investments have declined. If you've already annuitized (meaning you've started receiving regular income), it's important to confirm whether your contract includes features like a joint payout option or period certain. These choices can't be added after the fact, so what you selected at the start is what determines how much, if anything, your beneficiaries receive. You should also take the time to review and update your beneficiary designations. Life changes, like divorce, remarriage or the death of a previously named beneficiary, can create complications if you haven't kept your documents current. And make sure you name contingent beneficiaries too, in case your primary beneficiary isn't able to inherit. Ultimately, an annuity doesn't have to be a "use it or lose it" investment. With the right setup, it can offer long-term peace of mind for both you and the people you care about. The bottom line Annuities can offer powerful income protection during retirement, but without the right planning, they might not offer the same protection for your loved ones after you're gone. But what happens to your annuity when you die depends largely on the structure of the contract, whether you've chosen survivorship options and who you name as your beneficiaries. To avoid unwanted surprises, take the time to understand your annuity's terms and make sure your designations reflect your wishes. With a few thoughtful decisions, your annuity can serve as more than just a retirement paycheck. It can also be a meaningful part of your legacy.
