BALTIMORE, Feb. 25, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- "There
are a lot of ways to approach retirement choices abroad," says
Dan Prescher, a senior editor for
International Living. "One of the ways I find most interesting is
by region. Europe, the Americas,
and Southeast Asia are the top
three regions of the world being researched and chosen as
retirement destinations by North American expats. Each has distinct
attributes and, depending on a person's individual preferences and
priorities, might appeal more or less...
"When looked at from a regional perspective, the results of
International Living's latest Global Retirement Index comes up with
some pretty clear winners in each part of the world. These are the
places that set the standard for these regions, and are a great way
to start the process of comparing and contrasting regions for
anyone interested in living, working, or retiring abroad."
The regional winners identified by International Living's 2020
Global Retirement Index are:
Europe—Portugal
Portugal takes the top spot
overall in InternationalLiving.com's 2020 Annual Global Retirement
Index. It topped the categories of Healthcare, Climate, and Housing
while scoring well in the Fitting In/Entertainment and Development
categories.
Long under the radar for North American expats, the country
offers old-world romance at an affordable price. When you imagine
old Europe—those cobblestone alleys, medieval town walls,
crenelated castles on hilltops, all soundtracked by the toll of
church bells…Portugal delivers. Not in a touristy, contrived way,
but as the standard day-to-day life of the country. It exudes
history, beauty, and slow-paced living that is—by any standard
other than financial—rich.
Although you needn't be rich to enjoy it. Expats report that
their expenses here run to about one-third of what they were on the
States. And when it comes to the Healthcare, Portugal has some of the finest doctors and
medical training available anywhere.
As a retirement destination, Portugal is simply fantastic—but it is also a
top candidate for digital nomads.
"Since the late 2000's, Portugal has been implementing a plan to
develop a preeminent, state-of-the-art infrastructure," says Tricia
Pimental, IL Portugal Correspondent. "That's evidenced by one of
the highest per capita fiber optic networks in Europe, and also what is arguably the most
modern highway system, per mile driven, in all Europe. The speed of this development has
attracted international high-tech firms, even luring the Web Summit
a few years ago from its home in Ireland to a ten-year contract in Lisbon."
SE Asia—Malaysia
Conjuring up all the mysteries of Asia, Malaysia is a former British colony that
remains as colorful as ever. Beyond the lofty skyscrapers of the
capital, Kuala Lumpur, its
dramatic canvas is embroidered with tropical beaches, mountains,
dense rainforest, and vividly green tea plantations.
The healthcare is so good—and affordable—it attracts over a
million medical tourists a year. It's no wonder almost 200,000
expats now call this modern, warm-weather nation home.
Penang Island, a small, tropical spot off the west coast of
peninsular Malaysia, is a
remarkable place. It has it all—arts and culture, history and
nature, beach and jungle.
A former outpost of the British empire, you'll find getting by
in English is a breeze and the locals are friendly and
welcoming.
Chinese, Indian, Malay and other influences over the centuries
have contributed to Penang's
vibrant architecture and delectable cuisine. As a result, most
people are bi-lingual or poly-lingual. It also means tolerance and
"live and let live" is the default attitude.
Known as a foodie haven, Penang's capital, George Town, is home to eclectic architecture, a
vibrant art scene and what many claim is the best street food in
the world.
The city offers luxurious living at bargain prices—making it
possible to upgrade a retirement here and enjoy a high quality of
life for less.
Latin America—Panama
Panama has been a consistent top
finisher in International Living's annual Global Retirement Index
every year. For a small country, it packs a real punch. But what
makes it really special from the expat retiree's point of view is
its Pensionado program.
"Panama's Pensionado program
deserves the praise it gets," says Jessica Ramesch, IL Panama
Editor. "It offers foreign pensioners an easy 'in' to becoming
legal residents of Panama. Year
after year, Panama ranks highly in
the index's Benefits and Discount and Visas and Residence
categories."
As a retirement destination, Panama is an all-round smart choice—the U.S.
is well-served with direct flights, the capital is a vibrant,
cosmopolitan city and the country provides affordable, good-quality
healthcare—but it is also a business mecca for retirees who want to
further develop money-making ideas in their golden years.
"One of the best things about Panama is its business- and foreigner-friendly
government," says Ramesch. "Panamanians are accustomed to
foreigners and they welcome them with open arms. Increasing numbers
of North Americans, Europeans, and others are moving here. Some
come in search of adventure or a quality retirement destination,
and many continue to take advantage of all Panama has to offer as a business
destination."
On top of that, sunshine is year-round in Panama, with a mild, tropical climate, which
means expats can get out in the open any day of the year and never
worry about ice, snow, or even hurricanes.
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About International Living
Since 1979, InternationalLiving.com has been the leading authority
for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation
opportunities. Through its monthly magazine and related e-letters,
extensive website, podcasts, online bookstore, and events held
around the world, InternationalLiving.com provides information and
services to help its readers live better, travel farther, have more
fun, save more money, and find better business opportunities when
they expand their world beyond their own shores.
InternationalLiving.com has contributors traveling the globe,
investigating the best opportunities for travel, retirement, real
estate, and investment.
SOURCE InternationalLiving.com