Moving abroad had not been on my radar until I started talking to some expats about the joys of living in a new country. I’m always interested in why they decided to leave their home country, whether it’s for part of the year or permanently. The reasons are as varied as the countries they chose.
Recently, we asked TravelAwaits readers where they would like to retire if they could go anywhere in the world. The survey is based on each person’s preference and isn’t weighted for healthcare, cost of living, or climate, for example.
Let’s take a look at our reader’s top seven retirement destinations if they could live anywhere, starting with number seven!
7. Ireland
The “Emerald Isle” is the second largest island in Europe after Great Britain. This beautiful and sometimes mysterious country is known for its folklore (think leprechauns and pots of gold), its patron saint, St. Patrick, and its incredible landscape. You can marvel at the lush, green countryside or admire the rocky mountains and incredible cliffs.
TravelAwaits writer, Gail Clifford, retired to Ireland after her daughter started graduate school in Dublin. Clifford says it’s helpful to know some Irish and Irish phrases. Also, she says the banking system is very different. These are not insurmountable obstacles, but they’re definitely things to take into consideration. She also recommends enjoying where you move and remembering why you moved there. Clifford is a big proponent of exploring the nature of Ireland. She said it’s a great way to meet people.
From Ireland’s cities to the countryside, you are sure to find an area that’s right for you. TravelAwaits writer, Kirsten Maxwell, loved her visit to Killarney. It’s located in southwestern Ireland and is home to an incredible national park. Two other cities popular cities are Dublin and Cork.
6. Canada
America’s neighbor to the north is the second largest country in the world but is made up of only one-half of one percent of the world’s population. You will find black-blue lakes, beautiful western mountains, and the far reaches of the Arctic. Canada is filled with remarkable cities like Quebec City, Montreal, Toronto, and the country’s capital, Ottawa.
There are many factors to consider when choosing Canada as a retirement option. Business Insider reports healthcare, cost of living, and proximity to the U. S. as key reasons Americans consider the country for retirement.
Of course, you might want to visit and experience the Great White North for yourself. TravelAwaits writer Vanessa Chiasson found some beautiful quaint towns near Niagara Falls. Or you can visit Churchill, Manitoba, and experience the northern lights and polar bears. Victoria, British Columbia, is somewhere TravelAwaits writer MaryRose Denton says to add to your list!
5. France
France is one of the largest countries in Western Europe and is one of the oldest on the planet. This beautiful country is typically on most travelers’ bucket lists for many reasons including the food and of course, the wine. You will find 25 percent of France is covered with forests, while 50 percent is either farmland or countryside. The capital, Paris, is one of the biggest draws for visitors because of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the ability to see original Van Goghs and Renoirs.
TravelAwaits writer Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey recommends retirees acclimate themselves to French living before jumping in with both feet. She says there is a learning curve when it comes to the culture, the language, and the way of life. She recommends testing the waters in cities like Lyons, Nantes, and Bordeaux. Another TravelAwaits writer, Richard Nahem, made his dream come true by moving to Paris.
“One of my top personal reasons to live in France is the incredible and efficient public transportation, especially the train service. In Paris, the metro system is superior to the New York subway. The extensive service has 14 lines which take you to all corners of Paris. The average wait time between trains is never more than 5 to 8 minutes, and no more than 3 to 5 minutes with the popular lines,” Nahem says.
He also recommends France to retirees because of its diverse cities, medical care, and food and wine.
4. Spain
This unique country makes up most of the Iberian Peninsula and is separated from Africa by the Strait of Gibraltar. The landscape is as diverse as its cities from its snow-capped mountains to magnificent beaches to sophisticated cities. Barcelona, located in Northern Spain and the capital of Catalonia, has a traditional style of architecture. The Gothic Quarter is a popular tourist destination featuring La Boqueria, a market for all your senses, and Ciutadella Park, a beautiful park with plenty to do outside. Madrid, the capital of Spain, is the second largest city with a UNESCO World Heritage site neighborhood.
If you’re looking for great beach options, two regions to consider are Costa Blanca (White Coast) and Costa del Sol (Sun Coast). Their public transportation systems are both good, and you have plenty of beaches to explore. Two popular retirement hotspots are Torrevieja and Benidorm in the Costa Blanca region. TravelAwaits writer Inka Piegsa Quischotte says the atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed.
3. Mexico
You can find a little bit of everything in Mexico. High mountains, deep canyons, beautiful beaches like Cancun and Riviera Maya, and sweeping deserts make up this North American country. Mexico City is brimming with constant activity and sights such as beautiful murals, ancient ruins, and Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe, one of the most important religious shrines in all of Mexico.
TravelAwaits writer Louisa Rogers has lived in the UNESCO World Heritage Center of Guanajuato with her husband since 2005. They spend about 4 months every year here. In addition to the quaint cities, plazas, and ancient ruins, Rogers truly enjoys the kind people and culture.
“Cross-cultural specialists describe Mexico as an extremely relationship-oriented culture, in contrast to the U.S., where people tend to value individualism, independence, and autonomy. The difference in our neighboring countries fascinates me. In Mexico, people do things in large groups much more than alone,” Rogers explains in 9 Reasons Why We Love Spending Our Retirement Years In Mexico.
2. Portugal
Portugal is the westmost point of Europe with the majority of people living along the coast and about a third living in cities like Porto and Lisbon. You can find all four seasons within its diverse landscape.
This country often tops the list of best retirement locations. Retirees enjoy this country for a number of reasons. It was named the 6th safest in 2022. On average, the cost of living is 37 percent lower than in the United States. Plus rent can cost over 50 percent less than in the U.S.
Expats and TravelAwaits writers, Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris, fell in love with this popular country. They truly enjoy the people, the culture, and the architecture. Portuguese food and drink are also at the top of their list, with delicious pasteis de nata, sweet egg cream tarts, and Ginja, a sweet liqueur made from sour cherries soaked in brandy and sugar. And of course, you can’t forget the delicious fortified wines from Madeira Island.
1. Italy
Our readers’ top spot goes to Italy. Where to begin with this fabulous country! Exploring the country’s history could probably take you the rest of your retirement with places like Pompeii, Rome, and Sicily. Then there are the charming towns — like Tropea and Positano on the Amalfi Coast — that make Italy extra special.
TravelAwaits writer Catherine Ann Lombard calls Italy home. “Personally, my husband and I decided to semi-retire in Italy for a number of reasons. He is Dutch and I am American, so we had to find a compromise as to where to live full-time. We wanted land where we could grow our own food, and we both wanted a spiritual home.” She admits it’s not perfect, but she doesn’t regret her decision.
Another TravelAwaits writer, Jackie Parsons, lives in Italy 6 months out of the year with her husband. “Hiking always comes to the top of our list but with so much wonderful culture and always something new to see, it’s easy to stay super active. The sense of community and the climate are also big attractions. Each season seems to bring its own magic.”
And you can’t talk about Italy without mentioning the food and wine. Food tours are a great way to enjoy many delights from this delicious cuisine, like this tour in Rome or this tour in northern Italy. Deborah Adeyanju recommends these three wineries in the Piedmont wine region.
To see another take on retirement destinations, view the newly-released Global Retirement Index from International Living. This resource is not scientific but does take other factors into account.
