The thought of retiring abroad is certainly tempting, whether you want to spend your retirement on a Caribbean beach or in a small European village. While there are many wonderful retirement destinations in the United States, other countries offer more affordable homes, better health care and significant tax incentives. But how should you choose a place to call home?
We have compiled a list of 12 stunning places for you to consider.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, a walled city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is renowned for its stunning beaches. The walking neighborhood’s cobblestone lanes are lined with colorful homes, balconies, and colonial architecture that dates back to the sixteenth century.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is situated on the Adriatic Sea. Massive limestone walls from the Middle Ages enclose the Old Town of Dubrovnik, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking about the walls is a popular pastime for both locals and guests. The city has beaches, historic buildings and breathtaking views to offer, earning it the nickname “Pearl of the Adriatic” for its attractiveness.
Porto, Portugal
Porto offers medieval charm, as it sits on the Douro River and its colorful terracotta-roofed buildings stand on the riverbank. The city is full of charming surprises, such as hand-painted tiles known as azulejos in its winding, small-scale streets, cathedrals and gardens. Dom Luis, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, is the most impressive of the six bridges over the Douro River.
Gold Coast, Australia
The Gold Coast, located in Queensland on Australia’s eastern coast, provides inhabitants and visitors with everything from beaches to rain forests to urban life. The region is well-liked by surfers and environment enthusiasts and is known for its sunny, warm weather.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town, Jewish Quarter, and spectacular Gothic-style Charles Bridge will appeal to tourists and retirees who value history and medieval architecture. Prague Castle may be seen from the pedestrian walkway of the 14th-century stone bridge that spans the Vltava River, which runs through the heart of the city.
San Sebastián, Spain
The Basque Country region, on Spain’s north Atlantic coast close to the French border, has its own language, albeit the majority of locals also speak Spanish. A sandy beach, a seaside promenade, with stunning views of the ocean and Santa Clara Island can all be found at Playa de la Concha.
Provence, France
The picturesque villages, vineyards, beaches, and mountains that line the Mediterranean Sea in this part of southeast France are a sight to behold. Ansouis, a medieval hilltop village in the Luberon region, is surrounded by rows of grapevines, olive trees, historic castles, and magnificent gardens.
Lucerne, Switzerland
One of the most stunning locations in all of Europe is this historic city, which is situated on the banks of Lake Lucerne and encircled by high mountains. Strolling down the cobblestone lanes of the old town is a real delight thanks to the statues, fountains, and ancient homes with frescoes.
Society Islands, French Polynesia
The Society Islands are a stunning area to live and travel, thanks to their tropical setting, mild weather, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. The largest and most populous island, Tahiti, is served by an international airport at Papeete, a city with hotels, dining options, shops, marketplaces, museums, and a vibrant nightlife. The majority of people reside close to the island’s coastline, which is framed by lush interior mountains.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is one of the most attractive regions of Italy, from the gorgeous city of Florence, with the Arno River running through its medieval and Renaissance buildings, to the rolling hills and green valleys of its small towns. The town of Montalcino sits on a hilltop overlooking a lush valley and the vineyards that yield its famous Brunello wine.
Bruges, Belgium
The beauty of Bruges includes cobblestone alleys, expansive canals, chocolate stores, and exquisitely preserved medieval architecture. Bruges has a distinctive appearance due to its rows of elaborate brick structures with step-gabled façade and its magnificent Gothic city hall.
Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
The Yucatán Peninsula, on Mexico’s east coast, is home to resorts, beaches, and a number of important Mayan archaeological sites, the most well-known of which are Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Uxmal. The primary international airport is located in Cancun, which also has hotels, resorts, beaches, and expats from all over the world.