Summary
- Looking to retire abroad? Consider Thailand for affordable living and exceptional healthcare in cities like Bangkok.
- Escape to the tropical paradise of Belize for stunning nature, friendly culture, and easy visa options for retirees.
- Discover the beauty of retirement in Aruba, where white sand beaches and proximity to the U.S. make it an ideal choice.
These days, you have more options than ever before when it comes to places to retire. It certainly pays to think outside of the U.S., especially because idyllic tropical destinations can be less expensive and just as exciting as their American counterparts. If you prefer to stay stateside, this Hawaiian island is an excellent option, or you can check out this under the radar Californian town. If you want to broaden your horizons and look to paradise abroad, keep these seven spots in mind.
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7 Thailand
Spend your golden years in the Land of Smiles
Thailand is a notoriously inexpensive place to visit, where you can stretch your dollar further than virtually anywhere else, but it also happens to be one of the top spots to live for multiple years, or even your entire retirement. You’ll find fantastic infrastructure and healthcare in major cities like Bangkok, or soak up some major island vibes on the Gulf Coast or Andaman Coast.
6 Belize
An idyllic tropical paradise close to the continental U.S.
If you’re looking for a fantastic tropical destination that’s close enough to the continental United States to make regular visits back, look no further than Belize. With a friendly culture, stunning nature, and the Qualified Retired Person Program that lets you fast-track a visa, it’s an ideal option. Enjoy the nature in Ambergris Caye or stay closer to modern conveniences in Belize City and San Pedro.
As a tropical destination, Belize is exposed to different sorts of infections than you’d find in other parts of the world, so check with your doctor and the
CDC on what shots you need
before you pack your bags.
5 Aruba
Retire in one of the gems of the Caribbean
With its white sand beaches and gorgeous wildlife, Aruba is one of the best places in the world to kick up your feet and relax for your golden years. Plus, its proximity to the continental U.S. makes it a smart choice for those who want to be close to their families stateside. You can enjoy the splendid shores of Palm Beach, head inland to spend some time in the rainforest, or make the capital of Oranjestad your home base.
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4 Costa Rica
Head to Central America’s top retirement destination
There are certainly no shortage of beautiful places in Costa Rica, the weather is fantastic, and the culture is great. It’s no wonder that it’s the 2024 Annual Global Retirement Index’s top place to retire. You’ll find a varied landscape full of volcanoes, cloud forests, and, of course, impressive beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. Plus, there are several large cities in Costa Rica where you can enjoy top-notch healthcare.
When you’re in Costa Rica, you will experience the true culture of Pura Vida. This ethos encompasses a laid-back, optimistic nature-centric lifestyle that encourages living in harmony. This element of culture is one of the major reasons why people love retiring in Costa Rica.
3 Vietnam
Southeast Asia’s gem is a great place to settle down for retirement
Vietnam is a vibrant and incredible country with plenty of great food, a beautiful coastline, and a friendly vibe that you’ll fall in love with. The ultra-modern cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh offer excellent healthcare, and you can always head out to some of the islands if you need a bit of nature. Phu Quoc is one of the best spots to both live and visit if you want a laid-back, relaxing space to spend your golden years.
2 Malaysia
This tropical paradise is a great combination of small and big-town culture
Malaysia is an excellent, cost-effective place to spend your retirement years where you can choose between big cities like Kuala Lumpur, and more laid-back artistic areas like Penang. The climate is excellent, the food is great, many people speak English in populated places, and you can get around the country easily. Plus, there are several long-term visas that you can apply for.
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1 St. Lucia
Balmy weather and white-sand beaches are waiting for you in St. Lucia
St. Lucia is another optimal place to spend your retirement years, and one of the top islands in the Caribbean. You’ll find fabulous rainforests, sprawling white-sand beaches, and lots of lovely communities where you can enjoy a great group of friends and soak up all the nature. Top places to settle down in include Castries, the capital, and Marigot Village, which is situated right in picturesque Marigot Bay.
