Retiring is for many a vital goal. The years of professional sacrifice are rewarded with the time you lacked when you worked and with a pension that guarantees financial stability. The end of your working life means the beginning of a new stage, without family responsibilities or other ties that prevent you from dedicating yourself to the passions that you have always postponed. Perhaps one of those things that your job has not allowed you is to travel as much as you would have liked. What if, now that you have enough savings, you would like to enjoy your retirement abroad?
The specialized magazine International Living has been publishing its Annual Global Retirement Index for 30 years, based on a large survey that collects testimonials from retirees around the world. This research takes into account factors such as per capita income, the cost of living, the health system, the leisure offer or the climate, to order the list of preferred destinations to enjoy your retirement. The header has already published a preview of its ranking for 2023 and, if you did not know which country to choose, take a look at the best positioned in the ranking below:
You're lucky! The Mediterranean and Spanish-speaking countries are the best valued by the readers of International Living. If you were reluctant to retire abroad, the cultural and geographical proximity may help you change your mind.
The neighboring country is the best destination for retirees according to this magazine. And it is that, despite its proximity, you may be unaware of all its benefits. Portugal is a country of contrasts that offers both paradisiacal destinations on the coast such as the Algarve, as well as more modest rural locations in the interior of the country. Also cities like Porto or Lisbon are home to a great cultural and nightlife. In a country where half a million foreigners live, adapting is very easy thanks to the friendly and genuine character of the Portuguese. Three other things they are some of the best at: health care, road infrastructure, and high-speed Internet. With about 2,500 euros per month, a couple can live comfortably.
Language is the first barrier that you will break down when you come to live in Mexico. The natives will make it easier for you to socialize at first, if you join a book club, dance club or excursions. Mexico is a happy country, with a fascinating culture and full of places where you can lead a calm and relaxed life, such as the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta or Baja California. This country allows the entry of foreigners with an initial four-year visa and with an income of 1,800 euros, you and your partner will be able to maintain a good standard of living. In addition, the State partly finances the health system and applies significant reductions to those over 60 years of age.
It may be the most cosmopolitan country in Central America. Panama welcomes communities from all over the world due to its natural situation of passage and bridge between the continents. Its capital brings together all the services for daily life, as well as a wide range of restaurants, museums or concert halls. Fun and outdoor activities are guaranteed, in a country that maintains a temperate climate all year round. Establishing your legal residence in the country will allow you to live without waiting for the expiration of the visa. The real estate market is quite affordable, so it will be profitable for you in the medium term. With 2,500 euros a month, a person can live perfectly.
A little further south, Ecuador offers the perfect combination of climate, culture, and affordability. Ecuadorians are open people who are one celebration away from being your friend. This country accumulates a great patrimonial legacy, from the cities founded by the settlers to the indigenous communities of the Andes. In addition, the Galapagos Islands, in the Pacific, is one of the places with the greatest biodiversity on the planet. The proper functioning of public transport, the price of housing or good food thanks to the large fruit and vegetable production will guarantee you an excellent quality of life. Of course, do not forget to pay in US dollars.
Do not leave Hispanoamérica if you are looking for a friendly, warm and magical destination. In Costa Rica, 10% of the population comes from abroad. However, it remains one of the most unknown countries on the continent. One of its strengths is the great diversity of flora and fauna that inhabits its territory, as well as the sustainability of its energy system, since almost 100% of production is renewable. If yours is sport, in this country you will have plenty of opportunities to practice surfing, golf, fishing or yoga. The cost of living is not very expensive and the social security contribution system is similar to that of Spain.
The Hellenic country needs no introduction. The cradle of our civilization and democracy is an example of active retirement due to its unparalleled cultural and tourist offer. The local gastronomy is another of its strong points and if it doesn't convince you, don't worry: in most city markets all kinds of foreign products are supplied. The Greeks are chatty and curious people with whom you will not get bored. By the way, Greece has a large population of older people. The cost of living is relatively low and with 20,000 euros a year you can live well. The problem is the bureaucracy that requires establishing your residence there.
French culture is synonymous with the good life. Enjoying loved ones, eating and taking care of yourself are the activities that will occupy the most time in your life. From the sleepy regions of the north to the wine-growing villages of the south, any destination is a good choice for moving to France. If you are looking for a vibrant city, well connected and where you do not have to take the car, then choose Paris. Although taxation is not the strong point of the neighboring country, it reports a benefit that it is: one of the best health systems in the world.
He could not miss to close the ranking. In Italy you live well and a lot at any altitude, for a reason it is one of the countries with the highest life expectancy. The gastronomic and cultural offer is well known. Internet connectivity at almost any point of geography or the infinite possibilities to practice sports would complete its strengths. It is true that the cost of living increases the closer you are to the north or to tourist areas, but with a budget of between 2,500 and 3,000 euros, a couple will satisfy all your needs. After living in Italy for half a year, you will now be entitled to benefit from the public health service, for which a fixed price of 360 euros per year is established.
