Expanded free time during retirement can turn retirees into travelers, but some people find they would like to move abroad, for both cultural and economic benefits.
Below are seven places to consider for overseas retirement:
Free Retirement Calculator: When Can You Retire? — Click Here to Find Out
1. Ecuador
Topping
International Living’s list of the 10 best retirement havens, Ecuador is favored for its vast natural habitats, affordability, and high-quality health care.
Time Money estimated average monthly costs are less than $2,000, and said the cities of Cuenca, Quito, and Vilcabamba as popular locations.
2. Malta
This warm Mediterranean island is another popular location for numerous reasons.
Kiplinger noted that while it may be more expensive than South American or Southeast Asian destinations, its affordability in comparison to Europe provides the geography with a much lower cost.
Malta is also known for its superb healthcare and low crime,
Forbes said.
3. Belize
AARP recommends Belize as a top retirement location for its wide range of offerings – including city and jungle, luxury property or simplistic and affordable. Its official language is also English, a major plus for non-bilingual retirees.
4. Portugal
For those set on Europe, Portugal is a great option. Like Malta, it also has a low cost of living but provides luxury opportunities. International Living wrote, “Many fall in love with this little country due to its near flawless weather, abundance of golf and water sports, and superb fresh food.”
Another bonus: the locals are incredibly welcoming, according to International Living.
How Soon Can You Retire? Free Test Shows You When — Click Here
5. Malaysia
Of all the Southeast Asian destinations, Malaysia surpasses them all for retiree benefits. The former British colony ranks fourth on International Living’s list for its unique culture, inexpensiveness, and luxurious cities like Kuala Lumpur.
Ipoh and Penang Island are other popular ex-pat cities. And regardless of which city, safety is rarely a concern thanks to the government’s no tolerance policy, said
British ExPats.
6. Panama
Hurricane-free and close to the States, Panama is consistently atop International Living’s yearly list. At #2 for 2015, Panama is praised yet again for its first-class amenities, performing arts offerings, and rural escapes.
Panama loves its retirees, providing discounts between 20 and 50 percent on travel, entertainment, restaurants, and health care, AARP said.
7. Thailand
The only other Southeast Asian country on International Living’s top 10, Thailand provides retirees with a rich natural escape. For retirees looking for serene rural homes, north Thailand is the option.
Travel south and there are miles of coastline and bustling cities to visit. And not surprisingly, it is incredibly inexpensive. Luxury living can be accomplished with around $500 a month, International Living said.
An Extremely Simple Way to Determine If You're Ready to Retire — Find Out Now
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.