The world’s best places to retire

There are many reasons why Spain is a classic dream spot for retirement, although you can argue that ‘retiring in Spain’ is the only real justification required. The climate is famously pleasant, with relatively warm (occasionally scorching) weather year-round, and Spain’s living costs remain low compared to other options in Western Europe. Spain has long been a popular retirement destination, especially for northern Europeans, and there is a decent infrastructure in place to cater for retirees. With great food, vibrant culture, gorgeous weather and a laid-back atmosphere, Spain is the perfect retirement spot. Just watch out for the heat in the Andalusian summer.

New Zealand tends to work its way into most positive lists, no matter the target demographic. The country’s combination of untouchable scenery, temperate climate, high quality of life and relaxed people makes it an ideal spot both to visit and to live, and it should be on your radar when considering where to retire. All of that comes at a price – New Zealand isn’t exactly the cheapest place for post-work living, but you really do get what you pay for. 

While Canada does not offer a retirement visa per se, there is still a lot to love about sending that final invoice and embracing everything the Great White North has to offer. Well, that will depend on your appreciation for snow, of course, but Canada’s quality of life and quality of nature make a compelling argument in its favour. Whether you choose the vibrant excitement of Toronto and Montreal or Vancouver's stunning blend of nature and design, you can’t go wrong. Throw in a spot of ice fishing in the Prairies, and you’ve got yourself retirement heaven. Cold retirement heaven, but retirement heaven nonetheless.

Uruguay doesn’t get the attention afforded to Brazil, Argentina and other South American countries, but that might work in its favour. Uruguay sits on top of the tree regarding safety and stability, and Montevideo ranks first for quality of life in the continent. The country has relatively affordable living costs, a good infrastructure, a fascinating history and some of the best food on the planet — particularly for meat lovers. The dedicated retirement visa is the cherry on top of this relaxing cake.

For many, Italy is the definition of retirement heaven. Waking up late on a sunny morning, nipping out for an espresso in a busy city square, enjoying incredible architecture, history and culture before settling in for a long dinner with delicious food and wine in the evening? That is the stuff retirement dreams are made of. Italy’s healthcare system is famously excellent, and the country remains relatively accessible for retirees compared to other European Union states. But anyway, forget potential admin problems and focus instead on the whole ‘retiring in Italy’ part.

West Africa might not be on the radar of most retirees, but more fool them. Ghana is a fantastic option for retirement, no matter how you view your life after working. Accra’s streets are busy with commerce and conversation, and the capital is an excellent base for exploring the country, although you can be forgiven for spending your days gazing at the gorgeous Gulf of Guinea instead. Ghanaians are considered some of the friendliest people on the planet, which is never a bad thing. 

Costa Rica has long been a popular spot for retirees, and it doesn’t take the proverbial rocket scientist to understand why. Residency laws in the country are relatively relaxed, with permanent residency available after three years of temporary living. That alone makes it an attractive prospect for retirees, but there’s gotta be more to life than ease of registration, right? Right! Costa Rica’s climate is predictably amenable, the country’s fresh food is utterly divine, and the abundance of gorgeous nature activities is a great way to engage with the majesty of the place. Also, taxes are relatively low. What’s not to love?

A favourable climate, a good standard of living, efficient healthcare, and, of course, the sea – the shimmering, shimmering sea. Stop us if you’ve heard all of this before. Portugal ticks many boxes when it comes to the perfect place for retirement, but there is more to this Iberian charmer than the simple life. The Portuguese have a respect for retirees that borders on devotion, and the country’s commitment to languid storytelling is evident in the history of Pessoa, Saramago, Torga and the rest. Getting set up in Portugal is relatively easy, meaning languorous living isn’t far away.

Thailand is a wildly popular destination for visitors of all shapes, sizes, ages and interests, so why wouldn’t it tick that box for retirees? The southeast Asian country has always been popular with those looking to kick off the shoes and relax for all eternity, and its lure isn’t solely based on world-class beaches, stunning temples and sweeping landscapes. Thailand also offers a five-year retirement visa that can be renewed within the country, taking care of the pesky legal side of retiring. Those beaches are wonderful, but they become even more serene when you don’t have to worry about visas. 

Retirees searching for peace, affordable living costs, and the Big Five should seriously consider Botswana. That might be a niche trio of criteria, but who wouldn’t want to enjoy a peaceful country’s serene climate while occasionally heading out to see how the elephants and buffalo are getting on? Botswana is a recreational dream that also understands the importance of taking your time, which just about sums up the perfect retirement. It also ranks pretty well on the Global Peace Index, ahead of countries like South Korea, Greece, and France.

Small but perfectly formed, Montenegro is an increasingly popular player on the European vacation scene. That isn’t a surprise to anyone who has visited the country, with its gorgeous coastline and stunningly dramatic mountains, but it has taken a while for the majority to cotton on. That means things will change fast, but until then, Montenegro is an affordable destination for those looking to kick back and enjoy life. Kotor gets the attention, and Perast is for the romantics, but you can’t go wrong with anywhere on its magnificent coastline.