Does 2023 ring in a year of retirement (or retirement planning)? If yes, and especially if moving abroad in retirement interests you, International Living’s best places to retire abroad, 2023 Annual Global Retirement Index deserves your attention. It’s no surprise that many tropical destinations are on the list.
The magazine took into consideration factors such as health care, cost of living, visas, housing, and climate. It also rated countries, not including the U.S. or Canada, where a retired couple can live comfortably on $2,000 a month. Let’s break down the winners and see what some of our expat writers have to say about the results.
International Living’s Global Retirement Index 2022 (International Living / YouTube)
16. Belize
This tropical Central American country is filled with adventure. You can snorkel along its stunning reef, hike through dense rainforest, and even explore Mayan caves. Belize is located between Mexico and Guatemala. It ranked in the top 16 because of its beautiful weather. It’s summertime all year round. Another highlight for expats is the language, English.
The availability of tropical fruits is also a draw. This eclectic country’s palate is Creole, mixed with European, African, and Mayan roots. The flavors create quite a combination on your plate. TravelAwaits writer Erika Ebsworth-Gould suggests several places to explore.
Half Moon Caye is a remote island about 2.5 hours by boat from Belize City. It’s the oldest protected area in Belize. The wildlife is plentiful on this tropical island. And it’s a favorite place to watch the stars according to TravelAwaits writer Joan Sherman.
Beach on Roatan Island, Honduras
Photo credit: Mendenhall Olga / Shutterstock.com
15. Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is a small island off the coast of Honduras. With a population of 80,000, it has a small but very active expat community. You will find unique tourist areas like the Arch’s Iguana & Marine Park, beautiful beach towns like Coxen Hole, and traditional fishing villages like French Harbor. International Living ranked Roatán in this year’s list because of its warm weather, slower pace, and lower cost of living.
Coast of Northern Ireland
Photo credit: stifos / Shutterstock.com
14. Ireland
If you like a change of seasons but not bitter cold, Ireland may be right for your retirement. The beautiful landscape, stunning castles, and rolling hills transport you into your very own storybook. International Living put Ireland on the list for its inexpensive healthcare, cost of living, and stable government.
TravelAwaits writers love the Emerald Isle for its outdoor activities like biking, its fun-loving pubs, its unique food, and the beautiful national parks.
Traditional Maltese fishing boats called “luzzus” in the harbor of Marsaxlokk, Malta
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