A Guide for Expats

Talk to some people, and they’ll claim traveling is the game of the young. But that’s not been true for years, has it? Spending your golden years abroad sounds great - just think of Judi Dench and the great late Dame Maggie Smith in the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel! You could have your dream experience too - trust us.

Whether it’s the Swedish countryside or Mexico’s beaches, there’s a retirement destination for everyone. There are many potential advantages to retiring abroad, from enriching cultural experiences or a change in your pace of life, to your pension potentially going further. 2024 is the ideal year to consider an overseas retirement destination, with changing visa options and growing expat communities.

The following list is not presented in any particular order, but all are our top picks!

Portugal: The Algarve

Portugal’s Algarve region is a paradise for retirees, with its sun-soaked beaches, Mediterranean climate, and affordable lifestyle. Known for its scenic coastlines and charming towns, the Algarve also boasts a thriving expat community. Portugal’s Golden Visa program is another perk for retirees seeking a straightforward path to residency. With high-quality healthcare and a low cost of living, the Algarve offers a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle ideal for those looking to enjoy their retirement surrounded by natural beauty.

Spain: Costa del Sol

Spain’s Costa del Sol has long been a favorite retirement destination thanks to its warm Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and affordable cost of living. Known for its relaxed lifestyle and scenic coastal views, Costa del Sol is ideal for retirees looking to spend their days soaking up the sun. Spain’s accessible healthcare system, retirement visa options, and welcoming expat community make it an attractive option for retirees, especially those from Europe seeking a comfortable and beautiful place to settle.

Thailand: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand, offers retirees a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern conveniences. Nestled in the mountains, this city has a lower cost of living than Thailand’s bustling capital, Bangkok, while still providing a warm climate, delicious cuisine, and a welcoming expat community. Thailand is also known for its excellent healthcare system and affordable medical care, making Chiang Mai a practical choice for retirees looking to stretch their savings while enjoying a rich cultural experience.

Mexico: San Miguel de Allende

The historic town of San Miguel de Allende in Mexico is famous for its colonial charm, vibrant art scene, and affordable living. With its colorful architecture and friendly locals, this town is a haven for retirees looking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural environment. Mexico’s proximity to the U.S., quality private healthcare options, and well-established expat community make it an appealing choice for North American retirees. The cost of living remains reasonable, allowing retirees to enjoy a high standard of life without stretching their budget.

Italy: Abruzzo

The charming region of Abruzzo, Italy, offers stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and an affordable cost of living compared to more tourist-heavy Italian areas. With mountains, beaches, and vineyards nearby, Abruzzo provides a slice of the Italian lifestyle in a tranquil setting. Italy’s healthcare system is renowned for its quality, and retirees can benefit from an elective residency visa. Abruzzo is ideal for retirees who want to embrace Italian culture and enjoy a slower, more relaxed way of life.

Philippines: Dumaguete

Dumaguete, a coastal city in the Philippines, is known for its relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and welcoming locals. With its affordable cost of living and beautiful beaches, Dumaguete is an ideal choice for retirees seeking a slower pace of life. The Philippines’ Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) provides an easy residency path, and Dumaguete’s strong expat community, quality healthcare, and proximity to stunning natural attractions make it a top choice for retirees in Southeast Asia.

Sweden: Malmö

For retirees drawn to Northern Europe, Malmö, Sweden, offers a blend of eco-friendly living, vibrant culture, and scenic surroundings. Known for its green spaces, proximity to the sea, and easy access to neighboring Copenhagen, Malmö provides a high quality of life. Sweden’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and the city’s focus on outdoor activities and wellness make it ideal for retirees seeking an active lifestyle. Malmö’s charm lies in its walkable city center, multicultural atmosphere, and relaxed pace of life.

Canada: Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia, is a beautiful coastal city on Vancouver Island, known for its mild climate, artsy vibe, and natural scenery. Retirees in Victoria enjoy an active lifestyle with access to hiking, golfing, and waterfront activities, along with a rich cultural scene. Canada offers high-quality healthcare, a clean environment, and a welcoming community, making Victoria an excellent choice for retirees looking for a safe, vibrant North American destination with a European feel.

France: Provence

Provence, in the south of France, offers retirees a picturesque lifestyle with its stunning lavender fields, sun-soaked vineyards, and charming villages. Known for its Mediterranean climate, Provence boasts warm summers, mild winters, and plenty of outdoor activities, making it ideal for retirees who enjoy a slower, countryside pace of life. France’s high-quality healthcare system, available through the national health plan, provides peace of mind for retirees, and the country offers an elective residency visa that makes it easier to settle down. Provence’s unique appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty, rich culinary and wine traditions, and a welcoming local culture, all of which make retirement here a dream come true for those looking to enjoy life’s simple pleasures in an enchanting setting.

Japan: Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan, is an ideal destination for retirees who value a mix of modern amenities, rich culture, and natural beauty. Located on the southern island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is known for its warm climate, friendly locals, and vibrant city life. Japan’s healthcare system is one of the best globally, offering excellent facilities at a reasonable cost. While residency in Japan can be more challenging for retirees, the country offers long-term visa options for those meeting certain requirements. Fukuoka’s affordable cost of living (by Japanese standards), renowned food scene, and balance between urban life and access to nature make it a wonderful choice for retirees who seek an active and culturally enriching experience in Asia.

If you are interested in retiring to any of these countries, you’ll probably want to consider the practicalities! To find out about more, visit our country guides to read about all aspects of living in those countries, from financial considerations to accomodation to visas. And if you’re still interested, feel free to find out more about what we do.