Retiring abroad in a different country where you worked and lived is gaining popularity. According to the Social Security Administration more than half a million people living outside the U.S., receive Social Security benefits. If you’re considering relocating abroad, you should research your options. Fortunately, International Living’s Global Retirement Index, lists the best countries to seek retirement. Below you will find eight of the best countries to retire, listed in the order of their ranking. Even if you do not live in the United States, these countries are some of the best countries where your money will go furthest! Consider retirement in these countries to extend your quality of life once you get older. Starting with Costa Rica below:
1. Costa Rica
Mild climate, stunning landscapes, and pristine beaches draw retirees to Costa Rica. The country readily welcomes expats and offers a simple residency process. With a monthly income of at least $1,000 per month from Social Security or a similar source, expats enjoy a high standard of living at a fraction of U.S. costs.
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This looks so beautiful
In Pakistan people can live with $300 a month very good life in 2 bedroom apartment or a rental house including grocery & utility bills in any big cities. With $600 a month people can live like a king in Pakistan. Home 25 hr car driver pay is $150, house cleaning maid pay $100, Gardner pay $100 a month, 24 hr cook pay $150, message therapist pay $5, root canal $20, hair cut $1 , restaurant breakfast $1.25, lunch & dinner $2.50/$3.50. 1300 km train business class travel $50
What’s up it’s me, I am also visiting this site daily, this website is in fact pleasant and the viewers are in fact sharing good thoughts
Costa Rica was a good place but not any more is to espencipe and lot of robbery
Dont forget to mention all the Narco activity , daily traffic traffic jams (2-3 hr minimum) and the garbage everywhere ………….almost all the rivers are polluted to the point you wouldn’t want to get any water on you( there is almost no sewage treatment than the rivers or simple leach pits behind the homes) ‘. Im not sure who sourced the information for this article but Costa Rica is as expensive as North America for most things and is almost twice the price for gasoline or diesel than Panama or Nicaragua. I have been living in CR for more than 12 years and have seen a lot of things that would make you shake your head ….Overall it still has many good things if you are into nature and get away from the general population …… but even that is on the decline
I live now 9 years in Costa Rica in the Canton the Osa, not close to a city but just 5 min walk from the beach, I feel my very safe, just do not live close to a city, that is everywhere in the world, the chance to be robbed is bigger!
I have read your article. it is very informative and helpful for me.I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it, again!
I can only comment on Ecuador. I have lived here for six years and International Living consistently misrepresents Ecuador. You can live here comfortably for $800 NOT $1,500 as portrayed in IL. To quote a cab fare as representative of all prices in Ecuador, is wrong. Cabs costs depend on the location and duration of the trip. I pay $1.50 for a cab. I have lived in 10 countries and 15 cities and Ecuador is the best place to live in the world!
Nicaragua ? The most dangerous City en LA?
I would like to know if you have ever been to my country Nicaragua, to say that it is the most dangerous country in Latin America. If you do not know, do not say. Here you will be safer than at home. My country, it is a paradise that God made.
I have been retired for 5 years in Nicaragua and you are right. After leaving crime filled Costa Rica for living there 7 years. The nicaraguans are one of the most friendliest people in Central America an I have never once been harassed here. That clown Lu probably has never been here and has no clue because he’s never been here or anywhere.
Crime filled? Where the heck did you live? I live in CR and there are zero issues where I am at.
I have heard so many good things about Nicaragua and hope to visit soon. One if the things I heard is that it’s a very poor country other than that I see nothing wrong…hard working and friendly people and pretty much safe.
He said city! It is clear that he doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
A mi gusta Nicaragua Especialamente la naturalesa.
Nicaragua has beautiful natural environment ,really hot though.
Need A/C.
Lu Herrera, I’ve never read a coment so dumb as yours. Nicaragua is the most safer country in all Central America (including Costa Rica which is also in this ranking), and it also has the lowest living costs of all the same countries and one of the lowest around the whole world.
I was living there for 6 months, Nicaragua is very safe. I will not live in Managua, Granada is beautiful and anywhere in Matagalpa.
I first visited the Czech Republic in 1969-not perhaps its happiest time, but I married a Czech who ha fled to England. I visited it regularly until 1986 and resumed visiting in 1992. I retired there, with my (Czech) wife and have enjoyed my hobbies-motorcycling sailing and socialising both in Prague-a great city- and in the country which is more our style. The language is very difficult, so if you like tv you need a subscription to English language channels. An Amazon is very useful for books and we have plenty of local Czech and English speaking friends. A permanent residence for 10 years was recently forthcoming merely by asking and completing a form. It’s a safe democratic country and has the usual emergency services-I had a heart op within a couple of days of trouble whilst shopping. I was in hospital within an hour!
Winters are cold and snowy, summers are very warm and the pool heats itself. We spend most of the time outside. Most visitors like it-some don’t , or won’t come over without any given reason. Beer in about a pound a half litre(pint), local wine I buy in 2 litre bottles for a few pounds.
Fresh sea fish is tricky to find, plenty of freshwater fish around-if you like it.!
I can only agree with everything you wrote about Czech republic. My opinion is, that in slovakia (I am czechoslovakian) is everything more-less same. Cheap country, good infrastructure, good healthcare for money. I feel safe here – for sure safer, than e.g. in dublin, new york, paris. In Czech/Slovakia there is no nogo areas. We have very low criminal levels. In Slovakia we have nice mountains – High Tatras for treking, rivers, 45pc of slovakia is forest. Within hour you are from Bratislava airport in London. Vienna, Budapest, Prague is almost behind corner. But we are far from sea, som maybe somebody will miss that. In later years summers are hotter and winter are more Ireland like – with much lesser snow than 30years before.
It’s true the Czechs don eat so much fish, only in the Christmas they eat “ Kapr” .
Beatiful country but very cold in winter.
Personally O have lived in The Dominican Republic. The country has a nice Nature with every possibility for hiking apart from Beach life, and the prices are favorable if you stay outside the typical tourist areas along the coast. Staying outside these areas require that you can speak Spanish, though.
For a somewhat higher price you can establish your residence in one of the tourist areas like Cabarete, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata and live very comfortably. But I have preferred to rent an apartment in the inside of the country. The country have everything you can wish in fairly short distance from wherever you chose to live.
I am Norwegian, and one of the reasons I like to live here is because the country in many ways have a nature that resemble Norway, but Tropical instead of cold.
First there is no U in Colombia
I have lived in Colombia since 2012. It is very economical. My wife and I own a condo on the Caribbean coast. Food and healthcare is very affordable. Our mothnly health insurance is $33 USD per month for the two of us. A typical appointment requires a copay of about 90 cents. The doctors are great at recommending specialists. The fruits in Colombia are awesome. Many are only available here. Colombia is a beautiful and very diverse country. There are coasts, mountains, deserts, jungles as well as large cities and towns. I highly recommend it to visit and to live.
Where did this list come from? 8 Best Countries To Retire? No way is Mexico a good place to live. “Mexico murder rate surges to highest in decades amid a rise in drug trafficking violence”,. Malaysia? 1000’s of Muslims protested just last month at the US Embassy shouting pure hatred and disgust for Americans. Maybe this author is paid to report this or they are happy to move there. At least tell the truth.
What @Nobody says is correct. There is so much racial hatred and corruption in Malaysia. The majority Malays pick on the minority Chinese, Indians and other races. In one racially tense incident, Malays marched to a church and demanded that the church remove the cross at the top of the church. Hindu temples are frequently desecrated, with idols smashed. Would I recommend anyone to come to Malaysia to retire ? NO !
I do not know who is Charlie? Are you ex Malaysian? Malaysia got 20mil Malay, just because 0.01% bad apple, you forgot about majority Malay that are friendly? Please tell me any place on earth that do not has stupid people? US? Singapore? In that case, Please stop driving as there are stupid crazy people that cause accident. Learn to see issues in bigger perspective or you just migrate to moon la.
To retire in a country, basically need a friendly community and affordable living cost. Malaysia obviously qualify to become one of the best retiring country. Most likely when you retire later, you be back to Malaysia…hahaha.
Where did you get this fake news. I’m Malaysian and not agreed with your statement.
I was transferred to Malaysia in 2014 for my employer. The weather is great if you like hot weather. I plan to retire in June of this year and I’ll transfer back to the USA. Most of the people I work with over here are good and respectful. You need to respect their religion, their culture and their lifestyle. Outside of work however, there is no socializing… they associate with their family and friends and I’m not invited. I maintain a low profile when I’m out of the office. I am treated differently when I’m out in public… the people can see that “Your not from around here”.. Some people will try to take advantage of you and others will just smile and nod “Hi”.
You are wrong. Malaysians are the friendliest people on earth. If you run out of money, you can go to a village on the east coast. The people will feed you and house you for as long as you want.
Guess you have not spent much time in Mexico! I will be celebrating my 10th year of living in Mexico tomorrow. Don’t believe what you read! If you are not involved with members of drug cartels you are not in danger. Most Mexicans are friendly and helpful. Where in the US do people leaving a public bus ( at the enormous expence of 50 cents for a local bus, or, with my senior discount, $1.20 for an express bus to a city 35 miles away) thank the bus driver? Where else do perfect strangers passing your table in a restaurant wish you good appitite? Where else can you pay less than $20 (that number’s correct!)
per year property taxes on your home? Where else can you attend a world class ballet or concert for $20 for the best seat in the house! More than one million Americans (and that number is growing by leaps and bounds since 2016!) And probably an equal number of Canadians have chosen Mexico as their retirement home
Please how can I apply for Mexico visa, I work and leave in United Arab Emirates, my contacts will end by December here been looking for someone that can advise me on Mexico visa. U can reply me on my Facebook messenger, Adebimpe Tunde thanks
You need to apply at the Mexican Conciliate in your country. If you are just visiting, usually the visa papers are given to you on the plane.
The coldest it gets in the Lake Chapala area is 58F. The hottest is 90F. Paradise and much safer than Washington, DC. hj
You are totally right. I retired in 2010 in Queretaro mexico and I live in the nicest city the cleanest and the safest
You can rent a house have a made and eat in small restaurants for about 1,000 dollars per month
the barber shop hair cut 2 dollars, 12 hot rolls of bread 75 cents, real estate taxes get 50 discount of property taxes 80 dollars per year
Can have lunch anx a good meal for about 3 dollars. I have one maid 6 days per week and a handy man and I paid for both 400 dollars per month.
I live also on Sunny Isles Beach in Florida and I can not believe the prices. Well one more thing ., if you are sick a minor illness there are doctors attached with the pharmacies and some are free for a consultation and slme might charge you 2 dollars
The 5 star hospital accept the us health insurance.
The only thing that I find expensive is tbe gas about one dollar per litre.
my city Queretaro is about 6000 feet about 2,000 m above the sea level and the nights are cool and the afternoon hot but dry and you do not need cooling nor heating your house ever.
yeah i love mexico especially their cheap marijuana. that’s the only reason i came in mexico.
I’m a Malaysian. Just like Americans protesting in America? There are fanatics in EVERY country. Don’t let a few thousand be your representation of all Malaysians. News media do tend to concentrate on events that shock and make great news. We can go out past midnight here and be safe, huge malls and shops open till late, food can be found 24-7. You will find, if you decide to come here that we are very friendly, we love to eat, most speak English, our roads, trains and subways are fantastic, we have grab car and uber, wi-fi is free in food outlets and we even have Starbucks, McDs, KFC, Burger King and Carl’s Jr and many other western style foods (if you don’t want to try the local food). Our dive sites in Sabah is the best in the world. Come visit and and if you visit anyone at home unexpectedly, you will find our favorite phrase is Welcome, Welcome, Please Come In, Have You Eaten?
Malaysia is heaven on earth
Well said Liza, proud Malaysian
Malaysia for retirement? Well we loved it too but after 7 years there in our sailing yacht we cruised the whole coastline especially Borneo but some areas are not safe because of the Abu Sayaf pirates and recent changes in government policy make it more difficult for yachties to stay there long term plus other reasons made us decide to leave. We sailed last year to Cyprus which we love and is much more tolerant!
Hi, Tony, Abu Sayaf is the terrorist from Philippine. They normally active at Southern Philippine. They sometime cross border to commit terrible crime. After Malaysia government started the coastal patrolling, it improved a lot already.
Malaysia is a beautiful and save place to stay, and if you only yachting, you missed out a lot of Malaysia jewel. Welcome to Malaysia to explore our colourful cultures that is hard for you to find any other place.
Just stay in your country.
You are right about Malaysia being a very despicable country as its government is a dictatorial discriminative set of megalomaniacs who impose their rotten ideas on her citizens (Islam is almost a forced religion, with other religions practically persecuted – Judaism, although before independence existing in Malaysia for thousands of years, is practically forbidden, with some Jewish former cemeteries only tended by some sympathetic Muslim individuals risking their lives by doing so and Israelis, regardless of former Malaysian background, forbidden to enter and being scorned for their religion). And her sister-country Indonesia, although culturally and in beauty far superior than Malaysia, because of its Muslim background also has very similar restrictions. If you want to visit a Muslim country go to Morocco where there is complete freedom of religion, and where the government even helps protection her Jews and their culture and property.
Costa Rica is not cheap. Stupid older Americans who are not discerning have helped to drive up costs there. Enjoy getting ripped off and scammed.
Well I guess if you’re a back packer that makes sense to me, otherwise and if you don’t pretend to live in down town, it can be easy affordable and you count with the latest on technology to encourage youself to look and reduce power supply costs reduction, a large variety of food, micro weather systems which allows you to go for the heat from the beach to the cold of the mountain, the beatiful and amazing rain forest, etc.
But just give a shut, come for vacations and figure it out yourself.
Pura Vida
I’ve been in Costa Rica and have a lot of friends there and what Travel32 is saying is correct. The country is expensive as a whole. Living in San Jose is even more expensive. Nicaragua which is next to Costa Rica is way far less expensive than Costa Rica and it’s safer with the the same or better natural beauty.
Actually, I agree. Costa Rica is very expensive. The climate is hot and humid and the electricity bill is outrageous. Yes, some of the beaches are beautiful but as far as I know , you can’t live on the beach only. Than national parks have also changed and the animals ( for the most part) have retreated further in the forests . People are nice and friendly but they also learned to expect tips for everything they do. Earthquakes. Have added to much to the poor stare of the sideways and many roads are simply dangerous wether they are paved or not.. Costa Rica would not be on my list of countries in which to retire. Good for a short visit.
Not even the last place for the undouptable best country, the country of the gods, Hellas or as it is wrongfully known, Greece. ..
Grakas
Oh yes……beautiful, lovely people and civilisation!
I’m Portuguese living in Portugal and I can assure you that a couple CANNOT live comfortably on a 1500$ budget.
H Fausto
We live on 2000 euros/month. The house is paid though. BUT we have a horse, four dogs, 3 cats and chickens. The animals cost us about 500 euros/month. So you can live relatively comfortable on 1500 . Maybe it depends on if you want two cars, where you live and so on. We live in Caldas da Rainha.
Ase
I have lived in Northern Thailand now for six years and have been retired for four. The climate is pleasant, retirees can stay here as long as they maintain $24,000 US in a Thai bank. Expats can purchase a condo and some expats if married to a Thai can buy a house but not land so most have the house in their wife’s name. Renting is cheap. A modern 3-4 bedroom 2 story house (furnished) will cost around $600 US a month in a secure gated community, which is mostly made up of Thai families and expats. Shopping is reasonable and transport is cheap but if you live out of the city than a car or motorcycle is a must. Street food is plentiful and safe…A good life, hi speed internet, satellite TV all mod cons. Shopping malls equal to western malls. Medical facilities world class. But beware medical insurance for expats is through international organisations e.g. BUPA, AXA, Allianz and is very expensive. I self fund my medical and dental care. A top class private hospital outpatients visit to a specialist, blood test and ultrasound cost mea little under $85 US.
I have lived in a country village in Northern Thailand for 17 years the only reason being my Thai wife is so happy living in the village she was born in and I am happy with my wife but Thailand is a – – – t country to live in-For 17 years i have had 800000 bht frozen in a Thai bank to obtain the necessary visa to remain here i will never be able to spend that money-I have to apply at least 5 times a year for permission to live here and pay to ask-an expat is only allowed to work in certain jobs -is not allowed to own property-i have many stories of expats who have finished up out of home and much poorer-a Westerner is charged 10 times Thai price to see an attraction-maybe just maybe Thai price with driving licence-millions who come here for a few weeks dont have license-air polution so bad there has been a time when airport closed because pilots couldnt see-thousands of stray dogs that bark all night-food and drink full of flies-I have spent time in 32 countries-I chose my woman here -I am now 82 years old which restricts me somewhat but next month i get out of Thailand to live back in the best country in the world-England-I am aware many Farangs wear rose tinted spectacles and live in cloud cuckoo land
I agree with your living storu in Thai for so many years. I have a Korean friend who lives there.
Well if you have truly been to 32 countries you would know that many other countries charge more to enter attractions. In fact it is quite common..
Agree, well said.
I DON’T KNOW WHAT YOUR Tlking about. I’VE LIVED HERE IN Thailand in ChaingMai for the past 10 years. Once a year I pay the immigration the 1900 baht. Each year, and every 90 days verify my address. I do not put 24,000 dollars in a Thai bank, but rather just swear on my mothers grave at US emigration I am retired and have an income of about $3000 a month. We built a house here about 10 years ago. We still have a house in North Carolina USA. Life is sweet over here! With Apple TV and Netfik, who needs Thai tv shows!
You swear at US immigration? Please clarify I do not understand. Also you do not deposit the 24 thousand dollars require by the Thai government in their local banks? how are you doing all of this if you can help clarify please.
I’m very much against putting money in a foreign bank. someone I know did this to meet one of the requirements in Ecuador and a year later the bank closed. Are there any other financial requirements that one can meet besides this bank deposit.
What about the smoke and the traffic jams
If I had to choose one country in the Americas, that will surely be Argentina. It’s the most European country in the continent, has a “very high” rating in Human Development, is much safer than Central America, has better weather, has plenty of tourist destinations (Iguazu falls, Patagonia, Mendoza, Salta, etc.), there’s more to see and do.
Have you lived there? 40% inflation, 3rd worst corruption in SA, highest tobacco addiction rate in the world, 1940s infrastructure.
But the wine is very good and very cheap.
I’ve read that the new government has reduced inflation to 20%, but I think workers’ salaries must be updated periodically. Regarding infrastructure, I’ve been to Buenos Aires and I’ve seen a much cleaner transportation system -at least, compared to NYC. You don’t see rats in the subway, and subway stations look modern compared to those of NYC.
I disagree as I have a house here near buenos Aries and the crime is rampant.there are 2 to 3 dogs per household and they bark day and night. I have come to dislike All my neighbors as there is an absense of respect.It’s a very dog eat dog get what you can culture. I have not found this to be true in Guatemala and Mexico.Argentina is becoming more 3rd. World while Chile for example is becoming more 1st. World. If you like chaos go with Argentina.
Good and informative, keep it up.
Truly beautiful
Most of recommendation is South America. .
Interesting.
Basically, recommend base on nice weather, cheap rent and low price of transport and food. 🙂
Most are in Central America: Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala
South America: Ecuador, Colombia
It’s number 6 British Columbia ? I have seen some wonderful pictures of mountains and lakes in there. I was only dubious after I saw Malaysia and thought….it has to be another African country.
Mate you need to check your geography Colombia is a South American country below Panama above Ecuador
It’s not British Columbia, Canada. It’s well written Colombia, which is located in South America.
British Columbia is a province of Canada. Colombia is a country in South America.
this is a country of my dream May Jesus help me
Alot of these countries have the highest crime rate in the world, No thank you not interested,
The picture is actually a view of Kalim beach from Patong beach on the island of Phuket, Thailand (I walk this beach everyday as I live there retired lol I am x United Kingdom – English) The road is heading out north from Patong towards Kamala and then Surin (on west coast, Andaman Sea side of Phuket) You can see Long Tail boats at anchor in the bay and to the left of the white building is a the red tiled roof of Pan Yaah Thai Restaurant (a great place to have an evening meal overlooking Patong bay) It seems strange to use a pic of a place which is not even in the report?? I live here quite comfortably on $1000 per month, the island has some great places to visit and if you want night life some amazing entertainment establishments, also Thailand has some amazing food and people.
I agree with Pete Day’s story.
Good catch Pete, on the photo Id. I’ve been here 26 years (TH). Still a great place, wishing only for updated public transportation to go with the other rural development in in CM.
Which South Asia countries are good for retirement??
I would recommend Thailand for the retirement among South Asia countries. Especially northern parts of Thai would be the best for as their climate and nature environment.
I prefer to move to countries in EU. Good for retirement, and well in living.
Best place to retire is Malta situated in the middle of the Meditterranean.
This website is very educative it provides awareness for people and places I never knew it exists
In South Asia, Sri Lanka offers incentives for those retired. In South-East Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Philippines are good candidates. We are now in Thailand, which offers different types of facilities either at the seaside or upcountry for milder climate or mountain landscape. Foreigners may buy a seaview condo of their own, with a value constantly increasing. S.E. Asia also has stop- and shopover destinations such as Hongkong, Singapore, Nepal and Japan at a low cost of flying. From Bangkok you may join package tours to neighboring countries, like Burma, Vietnam and Bhutan, even Iran.
I am happily retired in Singapore forover10 years now. I am singaporean. Singapore has been named as one of the countries for expat retirees. I am wondering one I am still curious about retiring elsewhere. It’s an interesting idea but I am wondering whether it is stupid actually
…why don’t you mention that non-Singaporeans can’t buy property there and that the policing is such that you must be very much aware to live a “very” respectable life, because there is no pardon for aberrations.
I have personally lived in Mexico for 7 years and seen how security and safety is deteriorating every month.
Do not understand how this country can be promoted as a retirement option when you risk random violence both in your home and as soon as you are in the street.
Hello. As with any country, it depends on where you live. I have lived In Merida, Yucatan, Mexico for 10 years. My women friends and I leave concerts, movies, and restaurants after an evening out and walk home alone at all hours with no fears of being robbed or sexually assaulted. Some of the large cities in the North have the same street crime issues as the U.S. cities but most of Mexico is much safer than the U.S.. The high crimes rates have mostly to do with the drug cartels killing each other over territory and profits.
My home city in the U.S. is San Diego, one of the safest big U.S. cities. While living there, I was mugged once and my home was broken into 2 times. Nothing like that has happened to me or any of my large circle of friends.
You risk violence in the usa or England too in many of the major cities…
Thank every much for the info really is useful .
Please i could like you to give more info .on visa where to apply it .
Iam from Angola really want to move end know more culture and another life living.
Well you should go to Portugal. Then you stay until you have a Portuguese Passport. As you are Afican, go settle in South Africa as a Portuguese citizens that made you into an European. Angola will change while you are gone with thousands of Chinese from China. They speak Chinese so Chinese becones third language after Englush and Portuguese.
You forgot to add Nigeria. Good people, great nation!
We have been in TH for a year. It’s ok. But I’m on a retirement visa and my wife, younger than 50, isn’t allowed on my visa! That means a cheesy border run every 60 days. We are leaving for VN soon. Cleaner, better food and way better visa situation. We were in Naha Trang 3 months. Fabulous.
nigeria…beautiful place
I am writing from Ecuador, where I visit once or twice a year. I have informally adopted the famalies of two sisters here, so I have 9 gradchildren at the center of my mid-70s life. $600 a month will cover everything in Cotacachi, an exceptionlly clean little city, next to Otavalo.
I think that Barbados in the Caribbean should be on that list. Several persons own villas or condos on mainly the West and South coasts which both have beautiful beaches and good shopping so that when they retire they already their homes in that tropical paradise.
I like so much this country but Never have opportinity go There am malian I pray all the time to have change to get There
Liza
I fully agree with you. We spent time in Kuantan on the East coast. The only thing I did not like there were the under-current on the South China Sea which made for difficult and dangerous swimming when the tide was in. We chose to retire to the south part of Cyprus on the Mediterranean Sea 🙂
I loved all the people we met there 🙂
You people have mentioned alot but Africa Uganda in particular is better than all this country is blessed with every natural…..and it’s cheaper in terms of living.one can own anything wants call it a house,land , farm n etc in ur names and clear documents that enable ur grand n grand children to claim it …I think u need to give a try .
All If you forget something. Are not anulonger safer country….unless you think that. Also is about your own experiencia. People that Went to safer counties did hace bad time!
I may be wrong!
The island of Roatan is one people should check out. We liked it so much moved there with out family full time.
None in Africa?
What about Mauritius? My country?
South America is too far for a South African.
The list is missing the v e r y best place where to move for retirement:
* * * * * A U S T R I A * * * * *
et.
My all time favourite….live the country, the weather, the food but not the language or taxes…..
British Columbia is a State of Canada. Victoria City is the Administrative Capital. It is truely one of the safest and most beautiful places I have ever been to, except racism is an issue. Racism was only practised by Tourists there, Not the citizens of British Columbia/Victoria/Vancouva.
Try southern Greece, greater Sparta area with beatiful beaches, nice dry weather, olive and orange fields just great. Peaceful and free crime areas.
People very friendly and everybody speaks English.New highway networks, excellent hospitals.
What about Africa,Ghana to be precise. Very safe and peaceful
Cheap as well.with 1000$ a month u will
like a king
I want to live but it impossible.
daniel lngalls as i said there are so many farangs living in cloud cuckoo land- so you are happy to ask 5 times a year if you can live in thailand whereas in a proper country you pass through immigration and you are free for the rest of your life and do not have to continually pay-in 17 years i have now had to present myself at immigration a 100 times
including for re-entry visas-I have never heard of people swearing on their mothers grave to avoid the 800000 baht requirement-that cannot be possible and to your own embassy-????-How about when your one year visa is due ? When we have to go along to Chiang Mai immigration at something like 4-0 am to queue to get an interview–stand till opening time at 8-30 am and be lucky to be in the only 30 allowed a number and if you are then wait for hours .
And what about the old virtually incapable men who are obviously ill who still have to go through this ordeal–The 90 day requirement maybe a upto date of address but try going over date and you will be fined 500 baht a day Regarding prices charged-take a trip up to the Water Park at Bo Sang -Farangs 1350 baht Thais 350 bht
I sold a car 8 months ago last month i was called down to immigration and fined 2000 baht for not asking the immigration police for permission-i have a friend of my age who sadly lost his Thai wife through cancer-the house he built is in family name -family claimed the house he fought in court for 3 years and got awarded the house but only for 6 months then it– had to go back into a Thai name he hurriedly remarried-very unsuitable ‘-Why are so many people wearing masks to help them breathe in Chiang Mai ?-And you think this is one of the best countries–then you guys who think this must have had a terrible life in your own country It is the love of my wife and my old age that has kept me here but not after next month March there is life in this old dog yet
daniel lngalls as i said there are so many farangs living in cloud cuckoo land- so you are happy to ask 5 times a year if you can live in thailand whereas in a proper country you pass through immigration and you are free for the rest of your life and do not have to continually pay-in 17 years i have now had to present myself at immigration a 100 times
including for re-entry visas-I have never heard of people swearing on their mothers grave to avoid the 800000 baht requirement-that cannot be possible and to your own embassy-????-How about when your one year visa is due ? When we have to go along to Chiang Mai immigration at something like 4-0 am to queue to get an interview–stand till opening time at 8-30 am and be lucky to be in the only 30 allowed a number and if you are then wait for hours .
And what about the old virtually incapable men who are obviously ill who still have to go through this ordeal–The 90 day requirement maybe a upto date of address but try going over date and you will be fined 500 baht a day Regarding prices charged-take a trip up to the Water Park at Bo Sang -Farangs 1350 baht Thais 350 bht
I sold a car 8 months ago last month i was called down to immigration and fined 2000 baht for not asking the immigration police for permission-i have a friend of my age who sadly lost his Thai wife through cancer-the house he built is in family name -family claimed the house he fought in court for 3 years and got awarded the house but only for 6 months then it– had to go back into a Thai name he hurriedly remarried-very unsuitable ‘-Why are so many people wearing masks to help them breathe in Chiang Mai ?-And you think this is one of the best countries–then you guys who think this must have had a terrible life in your own country It is the love of my wife and my old age that has kept me here but not after next month March there is life in this old dog yet
What about Seychelles. An Archipelego in the Indian Ocean. Have you heard of it? A real paradise..
What about most of the European countries? We all have fabulous healthcare, great scenery, cheap restaurants….or expensive ones if you so wish. Rents can be whatever you need, high rents in town or low rents in the countryside. There is a reason that the Scandinavian countries are regularly voted the places to live in! But France……a country with everything, fantastic scenery of every kind, historic castles and buildings everywhere, culture everywhere and last but not least a fabulous healthcare that Americans can only dream of…. the weather…..cooler up north, very hot down south.
Retired in France, yes, excellent health care, fine food, resonable prices, We live on 2500 €/ month easily. Can’t imagine to move to any of the proposed destinations. Visiting? Yes, but not retiring anywhere else.
I moved to Malaysia from the UK years ago and so far have not regretted the decision
I am retired in Thailand and love it here. I live comfortably on a pension from New Zealand of NZ$1000 a month.
Can anyone with experience comment on Costa Del Sol, in Andalusia?
William – I have worked and lived on the Western side of the Costa del Sol for the past 22 years. I have recently retired and remain on the Costa del Sol. My house is paid for and I find I can comfortably live on a retirement pension of around 25,000 per annum. Living costs are probably similar to the UK, some things are more expensive like electricity but gas and fuel are much cheaper. Supermarkets are inferior to UK ones, but there is a plentiful amount of fresh fruit and vegetables. A 2 bed 2 bath apartment will cost around 130,000 euros with community fees around 2000 euros per year. Second hand cars are more expensive than the UK, maintenance costs similar. Upside is the weather with generally mild winters and hot summer’s. Downside is that it is an essentially tourist area with limited cultural things to do. Inland cities like Malaga, Seville and Granada are beautiful and well worth visiting. Spain is very bureaucratic and the paperwork can drive you mad. There is also a lot of corruption in every town council so purchase of real estate etc. must be done with great care. Overall it is a comfortable place to live. The health sevice, when you have your residency is sufficient and hospital care is good.The Mediterranean Andalucian people are not as cultured or overall as well mannered as those living in inland areas who speak slower and better and are more pleasant.
I am talking to the ‘Farangs’. You have built a culture in your country wherein, everyone is free to live the way he or she likes. All independent. Ultimately no one cares for no one. Love has died. Families do not exist. Divorce is done at the drop of a hat. Values are no more. And this ‘i dont care’ attitude has led people to be alone after retirement. Therefore after retirement you seek for souls. You get a soul mate in another retirement home country. The soul mate looks at the wallet. The soul mate does not have great demands, attitudes And you seem to be happy living with the soul mate till you have enough money or you are not old enough. You get screwed if you have spent all your retirement money. Since there is no avenue to earn in a retirement country. Just one piece of advice to all – If you plan to retire in another country, ensure you have the money to spend till you die, without earning, after retirement. And an advice to those you do not want to retire in another country – teach your children to live a social life. Not ‘alone’. To live in a community. To respect another human being with different taste and culture. In this way if we all retire, we dont have to search for another place to ‘live’.
Mexico is currently a bloodbath and has the second highest murder rate in the world thanks to the drug gangs, I’d imagine Nicaragua isn’t far behind either
hey guys Really Greece is thebest place to retire. Take a look on the seashores, the weather,the polite and friendly people.Many islands to choose one of every summer of you life to stay on. Good food, fish, meal ,wine. History, art, civilization .So?
After 3 years in Thailand, I decided to give up. First, learning Thai is not easy at all. Reading a sign, a menu or a bus desination.. impossible. I have always felt so isolated because of this single fact. Yes, I COULD learn Thai.. but where is Thai spoken? ONLY Thailand.
There are actually few things about Thailand that I like. I gave it a good try.. 2 years in Chiang Mai and just over one year in a rural area in the Southern part in Nahkon Sii Thamorat. Visas.. even my “easy” O-A is a pain in the neck. I took a 3 night trip to Koh Samui.. a 2000 baht “fine” because I never reported that I left my home. Utter rubbish. No such thing as a proper retirement visa.
Go to ThaiVisa dot com for the truth about Thailand.. a hug forum.. yes.. many hateful racist comments.. buy you will get the gist. Driving, or just being on the road here is very very dangerous. Only place that I have travelled to (38 counties) where I was HIT by a car as I was walking safely on the side of the road in Chiang mai. The lady driving the Mercedes didn’t even stop, which is very normal in Thaialnd. ZERO responsibility for themselves, its always someones elses fault.
I have had a ‘resedente permenente’ for Mexico since 2012..so I am lucky that I can head back to Mexico.
Expats in Mexico have their own issues for Mexico but the level of despise for Thais and Thailand is nowhere near the same as Expats in Mexico. That’s probably because, in general, Mexicans are kind, fun loving people who enjoy dancing and music and family.
Crime in Mexico.. yes.. don’t be stupid and become a drug dealer or even a user in Mexico you will be safe. I never had a problem in Mexico. Also Mexico actually seems like they WANT me in Mexico, which Thailand does an awful job of finding ways to keep foreigners AWAY from that country.
travel 33-yes other countries do charge visitors more but do you think this is correct-i am pointing out that this is discrimination which you apparently are in favour of–Isnt that called racism ?
As for 32 countries -let me explain-I have been a lifelong cyclist and after the death of my wife I decided to pedal a bicycle round the world alone no phones-computers no GPS -Girls positioning system-no contact with anyone–I have many newspaper clippings from many countries-I rode 40000 miles in 4 years starting at age 62 and reaching Thailand at age 66 where i decided to marry again-many adventures–I published a book not so long ago about my travels and my life including being bombed by the germans- help an old man out and buy a copy.
Amazon Robert Winstanley No Guts No Story
AT age 62, I can give a cautious recommendation to certain parts of Mexico. Married over 30 years to a Mexican citizen, our 1st retirement move was buying a 20 meter wide lot of beach property in 1990. As it was in the restricted 50 kilometer from ocean as well as within 100 of border it was either put in my wifes name or go with a 50 year renewable lease held by the bank. MY wife is the proud owner. As we made a deal with our employees in Canada for a share purchase buyout over time we will be maintaining a shared rental house in Canada for aproximately 7 more years. Also a chance to see our children while in Canada.
Medical, well since Mexico tightened up prescription requirements the pharmacies added a doctor 30 pesos, Or about $2.00 US, many speak English. a specialist could run 700 pesos though. WE recently used the Similares pharmacy as wife and I had the flu in spite of having flu shots this year. Less than 5 minutes wait when we dropped in.
Now if I purchased island property in the Bahamas I would be paying a premium for imported goods and driving in circles, instead I have been able to drive here from Canada.
THis part of South Western Mexico bordering Guatemala and the Pacific boasts a climate slightly warmer than Cancun, regular sand not white, but instead of flat infertile land, There are mountains 50 kilometers inland growing coffee plantations and jungle. One coffee plantation on Tacana mountain was owned by the Braun family in the 1940s. In between Mango and tropical fruit orchards, pineapple, banana and more. On the coast within 10 kilometers of the Tapachula International airport is Playa Linda beach, no longer a sand road, now paved. I had thought a 20×50 meter beach front was $100,000 US but recently was told of a vacant one at 1000,000 peso which is about 60,000 US. For comparison what would you pay for beachront within 10 miles of Vancouver or San Diego International airport?
IF you don’t have a jet or plane, many park their yacts at the marina from the U.S so they can start out in the tropics and get economical storage and repairs of Yact between use. Many stay at our lot where we built PlayaLindaHotel. Com , including many expats living in Guatamala that come out to Mexico for visa renewals. ESpecially the ones that moved a little too high in the mountains and found out the elevation can see ice freezing weather. ON the beach it can get down to about 17 Celcius ,62 Fahrenheit overnight in December.
Safety, well vehicle accidents are the most likely issue. I do recommend travelling during the day. I notice those getting in trouble seem to be the same as Canada. Drunk outside bars at closing.
Shopping in Tapachula includes Home Depot, malls and my competition Holiday Inn. But I hope those coming here will try alternatives to home, visit the mountains coffee and flower plantations, Mayan Ruins, Agua Calliente hot springs(4 wheel drive required for hot springs) or climb Tacana during dry winter season, or ride a bike down Tacana mountain, and of course maybe rent a body surf board at the beach.
Communication, my wife uses a Mexico chip in her cell phone, Telcell 150 pesos month 6 or 700 megabytes and unlimited calls within Mexico, outside she uses WhatsApp free on our WIFI.
Internet, sadly Telmex has gone weeks of no service, fortunately in Tapachula the cable company will provide Spanish cable,10 megabit internet and a Voice over IP phone with free calling to US and Canada for 530 peso a month so Netflix and Youtube are no problem.
Guatemala only minutes away with the world most exotic water park about 3 hours distant
I neglected to mention mail service. Years ago mail would go missing sent to Mexico. However a few years back I ordered some wifi Skype phones and was shocked they were sent by post office, I was even more shocked when they arrived a month later. SInce then I have had many things sent into Mexico and all has arrived mind you from Hong Kong and China has taken up to 60 days. But similar times to Canada mostly spent in Customs just have the shipper put the honest price on the goods and pay the honest tax and it gets through. IF under 20.00 probably wont charge tax anyway.
Little mention is made of security issues and infrastructure, which is surely of some importance in retirement. I lived in Costa Rica a few years, and while it is reasonably safe, there is quite a high rate of petty crime (theft) to contend with. I believe its improved a little recently, but the condition of roads around the country was notorious too (potholes/huecos). Also the food in Costa Rica is mediocre (compared to Mexico for example, where I also lived a few years). Plus I got tired of checking my shoes for scorpions every morning (served me right for living in Guanacaste I guess)
I live in Spain now and find it far preferable. Portugal has more advantages re: tax etc, but went for Spain just because I speak Spanish. If speaking neither, I think I would choose Portugal.
Wow! You world travel experts….thank you for all the tips. We love being retired in Canada and close ties to our 3 grown up children and grandchildren, within 13 min, 3 hrs and 6 hrs driving time. We also share a small family cabin in Montana, USA. Cannot put a dollar value on that! Just had a beautiful family holiday together in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico to escape the cold and snow. ❤️from Canada
The most developed region in Latin America is the “Southern Cone” (Argentina, Chile and Uruguay). These three countries rate “Very High” in the Human Development Index. The southern part of Brazil can also be considered part of the Southern Cone. Argentina is the most European country in Latin America. Guess where I would be moving to if I had to choose…
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I’ve been living in saigon for the past 6 years, and mark my words: do NOT try saigon, i repeat do NOT try saigon. And if possible keep away from planet asia.
I can ensure all of you that Rwanda situated in central Africa is the most beautfull country to get your retirement with security, hygiene and affordable cost of living ensured at the highest level. Most welcome!
Either move to southern France , central or southern Italy or western greek islands otherwise don’t bother stay where you are and don’t pay attention to what others say .Real traveller’s know the truth.
A lot of dissatisfaction with Expats in Thailand. I am one and agree, if not for personal ties here with my girlfriend and dog of 10 years I would be gone. Certainly in the future.
Dangerous, lacking hygiene, manners, and laws that rarely protect you.
It used to be great value with the exchange rate but now it no longer is worth the effort to get established here. Certainly no business opportunities either.
Cone” (Argentina, Chile and Uruguay). These three countries rate “Very High” in the Human Development Index. The southern part of Brazil can also be considered part of the Southern Cone. Argentina is the most Europea
I m from austria and live in northern greece for30 years now I can only highly recommend greece for retirement the beaches are awsome healthcare ok and people very sweet
Thailand is the another country that best for retirement beautiful country, nice people.