These animals can cause excruciating pain and even kill you!
The healthcare system is excellent, and while there are many expats in Portugal, the country's population remains relatively low.
Panama has an amazing system for retired people, whereby they are entitled to enormous discounts on anything from household bills to hotel stays.
Healthcare is easy to afford, and the cost of living is reasonable. This, plus endless cultural activities, make Panama a great place to retire.
Source: (International Living)
See also: What is the "retirement curse" and how to avoid it
With the lowest living costs in Western Europe, and a highly agreeable climate, Portugal is also a very safe and peaceful place to live.
The climate is optimal, and the country has many healthy, and less processed, options in terms of food. Costa Rica also has a very outdoorsy culture.
Coming in at the top of the list is Panama. Home to a fantastic climate, you have the choice of living by the water or in a mountain town. The country is also a tax haven.
The progressive country has a great healthcare system, and the standard of living in general is very high.
Whether you choose to live in the major cities of Lisbon or Porto, the Algarve region, or really anywhere is totally up to you.
There are so many different kinds of places in Mexico where you can choose to live. By the water, in the mountains, or in a small town or big city—it's up to you.
Healthcare is also extremely good and affordable in Colombia. For example, prescription costs are low.
This Central American country is extremely environmentally friendly with a lot of natural beauty. It's also a very safe place to live.
The cost of living in Mexico is very low. Discounts are available for people of retirement age, and the healthcare system is also very good.
The climate is great, and the people are very welcoming. Indeed, there are many reasons why retiring to Mexico is a very valid option.
The cost of living is very low in Colombia. This applies to apartment rentals, eating out, and general entertainment.
The climate of Ecuador is excellent. Whether you want to live on the coast or in the mountainous Andes region, you will find somewhere warm and temperate.
The cost of living is very reasonable. Apartment rentals are quite affordable, and food and travel costs are also exceptionally low.
There are many expat communities here, and the native Ecuadorians are also very friendly.
Santa Marta or Cartagena are great coastal areas to live in. Or you may prefer to live in a mountainous city, like Medellín.
A generally inexpensive country when avoiding areas full of tourists, Spain also has an amazing range of fruit and vegetables, which are all grown within the country.
The French have an excellent healthcare system, and the cost of living is relatively low, especially away from most major cities.
Traveling around by rail and bus is very inexpensive, and the country has an impressive healthcare system. As for the climate, it's exceptionally good.
There are a lot of expats living in Spain, many of whom reside in cities, beach towns, and even mountainous regions.
If you are a fan of great culture, amazing food and wine, interesting history, and a good climate, France is definitely a great option.
The pace of life in France is also very well-suited to retirement. You can enjoy all modern conveniences and still find a quieter and more serene lifestyle.
There are numerous beautiful coastal towns and cities where someone looking for a quiet retirement by the sea may prefer to set themselves up. The interior of the country is made up of lush grassland used for farming and ranching. Countryside living is also an attractive option here.
Uruguay is a relatively small South American nation with a population of 3.5 million people. It’s considered to be the most egalitarian and democratic place in Latin America. It’s a well-run country by all accounts, with a comprehensive healthcare system and social security benefits.
The capital of Montevideo is home to 40% of the country’s population. Despite the population density, the city is known for its wide tree-lined avenues, green spaces, and coastal promenade.
Malta is a tiny picturesque island nation in the Mediterranean, located close to Sicily, Greece, and Tunisia. It’s home to half a million residents, 15% of whom are expats. The most densely populated cities line the east coast of the island.
Malta receives around 300 days of sun per year, with short mild winters. The rocky island is dotted with quaint fishing villages, and the smaller nearby island of Gozo is more affordable in terms of housing costs.
Take a look through this gallery to discover the best places to retire in 2024.
The best places to retire in 2024
The countries where you can best enjoy your golden years
TRAVEL Retirement
If you are coming up to retirement age, you may already be thinking about making big changes in your lifestyle! Many people choose to retire to a new location, even a new country, when they're finally free to enjoy their golden years. Whether this is because of weather, safety, or financial reasons, everyone has a different idea about what is most important to them when making these decisions.
Take a look through this gallery to discover the best places to retire in 2024.