5 Top Places To Retire Abroad

As the winter months creep in, and the warm summer air fades, anyone who is nearing pension age may be giving considerable thought to retiring abroad.

With air travel cheaper and more convenient than ever, you no longer have to say farewell to family and friends forever. These days you can easily spend days relaxing on an idyllic Caribbean beach, enjoying year-round spring weather in your mountain haven or spend your afternoons wandering the historic streets of top European cities.

Aside from your average temperature preference, you also need to consider the financial aspects of moving abroad, including house prices, health care and the general cost of living.

With this in mind, here are five popular places to retire abroad.

1. Panama

Whether you are a fan of sandy white beaches or prefer exploring this city’s beautiful promenade, Panama has fast become a favourite for retirees.

In addition to the stunning scenery, and a warm average temperature of 29°C, Panama also offers special benefits to retirees. This appealing program, the Pensionado Visa is open to people from abroad, and entitles resident pensionados or retirees to various discounts such as:

50% off entertainment (movies, theaters, concerts and sporting events)

25% off flights (domestic and international)

30% off public transportation

25% off monthly energy bills & utilities (electrical, telephone and water)

In order to qualify for the Pensionado Visa, one thing to bear in mind is that you must draw a pension of at least $1,000 per month.

2. Spain

With pretty much all-year round sunshine, and a laid back attitude towards life, arguably Spain’s biggest appeal to retirees is the quality of life on offer.

Many retirees choose to live along the Costa del Sol, which boasts near-perfect weather, low-cost living and a relaxed lifestyle. In comparison to many other European countries, Spain remains a relatively cheap place to live, and has a well-developed national health system that is available to everyone, even those from abroad.

3. Portugal

Home to more than 100,000 resident expat retirees, Portugal’s Algarve is a popular place to retire to. Similarly to Spain, Portugal has the same great weather, enjoying some up to 3,300 hours of sunshine (yes, that is more than almost anywhere else in Europe), and its established infrastructure make it a great base for exploring all of Europe and Northern Africa.

4. Malaysia

Bursting with rich culture and and mouth-watering food, you will never be short of something to do in Malaysia.

House prices and utilities are considerably lower in Malaysia which makes it another popular choice for retirees. In addition, the temperature never drops below 22°C, and although there is no need for central heating, air-conditioning is essential in this balmy southeast Asian country.

One of the greatest activities you can participate in is Malaysia’s love of food and eating out; a 24 hours a day, seven days a week social pastime which everyone gets involved in. A casual snack could range from £1 per person to £5 per person for a tasty dinner in a restaurant or club; you could enjoy a sumptuous buffet (including beer or wine) in a premier hotel for as little as £10 per person.

If you feel like a few home comforts, several international grocery chains have opened in Malaysia, including Tesco and Carrefour.

5. Ecuador

Straddling the equator on South America’s west coast, Ecuador, is an emerging retirement haven.

From snow-capped volcanoes to sun-drenched Pacific beaches, you will be blown away by Ecuador’s otherworldly landscapes and awe-inspiring natural beauty. However, the country’s main treasure is undoubtedly, its people, who welcome foreign residents with open arms and the ultimate respect.

Not only is Ecuador an affordable and beautiful retirement destination, but it also offers a high quality of life; you have the opportunity to retire on little money, and live very well. A couple could comfortably retire on $18,000 per year which is mainly down to the low cost of living