Starting a New Life: Building a Nature Retreat in Croatia

TLDRFollow Frank and Alice as they embark on a new adventure of starting a nature retreat in Croatia. They face challenges in renovating their 200-year-old farmhouse and obtaining planning permission for guest log cabins. Despite setbacks, they remain determined to make their dream a reality.

Key insights

💼Frank and Alice sold their family home in Cambridge and bought 13 acres of parkland in Croatia to start a nature retreat.

🏚️They face challenges in renovating their derelict farmhouse, including unfinished chimneys and doors that don't fit properly.

❄️During a harsh winter, the builders face extreme weather conditions with temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius.

💸Frank and Alice have invested their life savings, totaling 165,000 pounds, to build the nature retreat.

📝They are waiting for planning permission to build guest log cabins, which is crucial for the success of their business.

Q&A

What challenges do Frank and Alice face in renovating their farmhouse?

They encounter various challenges, including unfinished chimneys, doors that don't fit properly, and overall structural restoration.

How much did Frank and Alice spend on purchasing their parkland and farmhouse?

They spent 56,000 pounds to buy 13 acres of parkland and a 200-year-old farmhouse in Croatia.

What is the timeframe for opening their nature retreat?

Frank and Alice aim to open their nature retreat next summer, which is less than a year away.

What is the current status of planning permission for the guest log cabins?

Frank and Alice are still waiting for planning permission for the guest log cabins, which is causing delays and uncertainty.

What is the total budget for building the nature retreat?

Frank and Alice have allocated 165,000 pounds for the construction of the nature retreat.

Timestamped Summary

00:01Frank and Alice decide to start a nature retreat in Croatia and sell their family home in Cambridge.

00:19They face the challenge of renovating their derelict farmhouse, including unfinished chimneys and doors.

03:41They purchase 13 acres of parkland in Croatia for their nature retreat, which includes six log cabins and a converted farmhouse.

08:50Frank and Alice live in a caravan during the renovation process and face a harsh winter with temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius.

11:29They continue to wait for planning permission for the guest log cabins, which is crucial for the success of their business.

15:19The builders return after a period of heavy snowfall to continue the construction of the farmhouse.

16:01Frank and Alice face uncertainty and delays as they wait for an answer regarding their planning permission.