7: Rainy Day Refunds and Cannabis Cafes. Your Travel & Lifestyle Roundup

Ready to retire by the beach without breaking the bank? These seven countries offer the best combination of sun, sand, and affordability. Plus, learn how a Singapore hotel will pay you if it rains on your vacation, and see how California's cannabis lounges are leveling up in style.

• 7 Countries Where You Can Afford to Retire by the Beach

• A Singapore Hotel Will Pay You If It Rains During Your Vacation

• California's Senate Just Approved Amsterdam-Style Cannabis Cafes

• The Travel Hack That Took Over The Internet: Finally Explained

• Art Spotlight: Adam Pendleton

7 Countries Where You Can Afford to Retire by the Beach

Retiring by the beach is a dream so many of us hold onto—especially after the last few years of pandemic stress. The idea of trading in the daily grind for a beachfront lifestyle feels like the ultimate escape. But if you’re in the U.S., property by the water often comes with a price tag that’s a bit... discouraging.

Thankfully, there are countries around the world that offer exactly what you’re looking for—pristine coastlines, a low cost of living, and an overall affordable lifestyle that doesn’t sacrifice beauty or comfort. In fact, many of these locations are expat-friendly, with affordable healthcare and residency options to boot.

If you’ve been thinking about trading in your 9-to-5 for life on the sand, here are seven countries where you can actually retire by the beach and live comfortably for a fraction of U.S. prices.

Learn More

A Singapore Hotel Will Pay You If It Rains During Your Vacation

Now, here’s something you don’t hear every day: A five-star hotel in Singapore has created a “rainy day” refund policy that actually pays you if your vacation gets rained out.

The InterContinental Singapore has launched a new package called “Rain Resist Bliss,” which promises to reimburse guests for one night’s stay if they experience more than two hours of rain during daylight hours. Yep, you read that right—get rained on, and get paid! Of course, this is Singapore, so you’ll need to be staying in a suite (prices start around $600 a night) to cash in on this deal.

The idea came from a casual conversation about what luxury travel might look like next. The result? Weather-proof vacations—well, sort of.

Read More

California's Senate Just Approved Amsterdam-Style Cannabis Cafes

California is taking cannabis lounges to the next level, and it’s about to feel a lot like Amsterdam over there. Starting January 1, 2025, a new law will allow licensed cannabis lounges to sell food and drinks—freshly prepared, not just prepackaged snacks. This change means that cannabis businesses, which have been pretty limited on the culinary front, can now serve a full experience for their guests.

It's a big deal for the cannabis scene in California, blending social spaces with the freedom to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks and freshly made bites alongside your cannabis. Call it the ultimate laid-back, California vibe.

Consume More

The Travel Hack That Took Over The Internet: Finally Explained

You’ve seen it everywhere, and now it’s time to break it down. That viral travel hack? We’ve got all the details you need to know. From saving money to navigating through your next adventure, this is one trick that’s worth bookmarking for your next trip—especially if you’re headed to Singapore.

Watch More

Art Spotlight: Adam Pendleton

If you’re into contemporary art, you need to know about Adam Pendleton. Based in New York, Pendleton is one of the leading voices redefining painting, drawing, and photography in the 21st century. His work combines everything from stencils to textual fragments, creating pieces that challenge the boundaries of abstraction.

Pendleton's approach, which he calls “Black Dada,” examines the intersection of Blackness and abstraction, making his work as thought-provoking as it is visually striking. Whether you're new to his art or a long-time admirer, Pendleton’s creations are worth exploring.

Visit and Follow

Enjoyed this edition of The Bassport? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and invite them to join the journey. Each share adds a stamp to your Bassport, bringing you closer to exclusive rewards and insider content. Spread the word, and let’s explore the world together!

Thank you!