Top 5 countries for retirement

Sunsets painted in vibrant hues, a sense of security around every corner, a calendar filled with engaging activities, and a budget that stretches comfortably - these are the dreams of many approaching retirement. But where can you find the perfect blend of these desires? This article unveils some of the most ideal retirement havens, carefully curated based on safety, entertainment options, pleasant weather, and affordability.

1. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, often overshadowed by its Western European neighbors, might be a surprising but rewarding choice for retirees seeking a balance of affordability, safety, and cultural richness.

As for healthcare, the Czech Republic is considered to be something of a gold standard; you get top-notch service and treatment for a very small monthly payment. For those with a passion for history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, this country is a great choice.

3 best places to visit:

Prague Castle

Prague Castle, with its vast grounds, diverse architectural styles, and iconic landmarks like the St. Vitus Cathedral, offers a fascinating glimpse into Czech history and culture, making it a must-visit for enyone seeking a rich cultural experience in Prague.

Charles Bridge

The most famous bridge in Prague is without doubt the Charles Bridge. Named after King Charles IV, for hundreds of years it was the only structure connecting the two banks of the Vltava River. Nowadays it’s a popular place for a romantic walk at sunset, when lanterns light up the stone walkway. 

Steeped in history and adorned with Baroque statues, Charles Bridge offers retirees a romantic stroll at sunset across the Vltava, where lanterns illuminate the path and breathtaking views unfold. This iconic landmark blends historical significance with scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for any Prague retiree.

National Gallery Prague

The National Gallery is the most important art museum in the capital and is located in six different locations in different parts of the city. 

In Prague, a must-see for art lovers (and not only) is definitely the National Gallery (in Czech Národní galerie v Praze) which is the most important art museum in the capital. 

You will see the original paintings of Albrecht Dürer, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Paul Cézanne, Edvard Munch, Pablo Picasso as well as Czech artists ⁠–⁠ Václav Hollar, Josef Václav Myslbek, Toyen, Jan Preisler, František Kupka, Zdenìk Sýkora and Adriena Šimotová.

2. Portugal

It’s one of the cheapest countries in not just Western Europe, but Europe as a whole. Add to that a pleasant climate, the architectural marvels of cities like Porto and Lisbon, and some of the best dishes in the world, and it starts to sound like a dream come true. The thing is, Portugal, for all its budget-friendly luxuries, is also a great place for the more active retiree, with lots of opportunities to stay fit, from hiking and surfing to golfing. It’s also the 3rd safest country in the world.

3 best places to visit:

Braga and The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte

A city perched pretty close to Porto and Amarante, it’s the perfect place to see some of Portugal’s most impressive buildings and history.

Make sure you visit the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte. Oh, and take a bottle of water, too. The many steps will make even the best Olympian out of breath!

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a Portuguese Catholic shrine in Tenões, outside the city of Braga, in northern Portugal. Its name means Good Jesus of the Mount.

This sanctuary is a notable example of Christian pilgrimage site with a monumental, Baroque stairway that climbs 116 meters (381 feet). It is an important tourist attraction of Braga.

On 7 July 2019, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Douro Valley

Look to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest and best-known demarcated wine regions, dating back to 1756. Famed for its terraced vineyards, with vines ribbing the contours of steep granite slopes, this valley is the birthplace of port.

Enchanting Scenery: Imagine waking up to sun-drenched vineyards cascading down emerald hills, their colors changing with the seasons. Picture yourself sitting on a terrace overlooking the river, mesmerized by the vibrant sunsets. The Douro Valley offers a visual feast for the soul, promoting peace and tranquility. 

Óbidos

Wandering the tangle of ancient streets in the historic town of Óbidos is enchanting at any time of year, but come during one of its festivals and you're in for a special treat. Whether you fancy the idea of a mock-up jousting match at a medieval fair or delving into the written word at Folio – Portugal's biggest international literature festival – you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop.

Serra da Estrela Natural Park 

The park is the largest natural conservation area in Portugal and occupies about 1,000 km². More than half of its area is located above an altitude of 700 m. At 1,993 m it contains the highest peak in Continental Portugal (named Torre) and a ski resort (named Vodafone Ski Resort).

From Portugal's highest peaks to hidden waterfalls, Serra da Estrela Natural Park invites adventure seekers and serenity lovers alike. Ski down slopes in winter, hike vibrant trails in summer, and savor local cheese while soaking in breathtaking vistas - an all-season escape for every soul.

3. Spain

Sun-kissed shores shimmer, flamenco ignites the soul, and ancient cities whisper tales of time under boundless skies - Spain, a tapestry woven with vibrant passion, whispers promises of beauty for every heart.

Beautiful weather, picturesque landscapes, stunning architecture and delicious cuisine - what more could a newly retired individual ask for? Spain is considered to be a generally safe place to live. And while it’s not nearly as cheap as some of the other destinations we’ll be discussing today, it remains among the least expensive countries in Western Europe. Your grocery bill, in particular, is sure to drop substantially due to all the excellent local produce. 
Plus given how diverse this country is, we expect that you’ll be doing a fair amount of travel within the borders of your new home.

Spain consistently ranks highly on traveler satisfaction surveys, boasting stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you're looking for an unforgettable travel experience, Spain is definitely worth considering!

3 best places to visit:

Sagrada Família

The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família,[a] otherwise known as Sagrada Família, is a church under construction in the Eixample district of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. It is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926), his work on Sagrada Família is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is the main Spanish national art museum, located in central Madrid. It houses collections of European art, dating from the 12th century to the early 20th century, based on the former Spanish royal collection, and the single best collection of Spanish art. Founded as a museum of paintings and sculpture in 1819, it also contains important collections of other types of works. The numerous works by Francisco Goya, the single most extensively represented artist, as well as by Hieronymus Bosch, El Greco, Peter Paul Rubens, Titian, and Diego Velázquez, are some of the highlights of the collection. Velázquez and his keen eye and sensibility were also responsible for bringing much of the museum's fine collection of Italian masters to Spain, now one of the largest outside of Italy.

Ronda

Nestled in Spain's Andalusia, Ronda captivates with its dramatic cliffside setting and deep El Tajo gorge. Explore historic landmarks like the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge and Moorish baths, while wandering charming old town streets bursting with local culture and delicious cuisine. From ancient echoes to modern flair, Ronda offers a captivating blend of history and beauty.

4. Romania

Beyond its gothic allure, Romania boasts captivating beauty and diverse experiences. Explore vibrant Bucharest's architecture, bask on the sunny Black Sea coast, or trek through the verdant Carpathian Mountains, all at an affordable price. 

3 best places to visit:

Bran Castle

Perched atop a dramatic cliff in the heart of Romania's Carpathians, Bran Castle reigns as a national landmark steeped in myth and history. Though often referred to as "Dracula's Castle" due to its imposing presence and resemblance to the fictional fortress in Bram Stoker's renowned novel, the castle's true story is far richer and intriguing. 

Ice Hotel

Welcome to the splendors of Balea Lake in Romania. In freezing Lake Balea lies Romania's unique Ice Hotel, reborn each year from the lake's waters. Sip drinks at the icy bar, snuggle in fur-lined rooms and igloos, or even tie the knot in the nearby ice church – a frosty fairytale awaits at this seasonal wonder.

Cheile Nerei-Beusnita National Park

Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Romania's Cheile Nerei-Beusnita National Park, a haven for nature lovers since 2000. Spanning 142 square miles in the country's southwest, this park is a wonderland of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear turquoise lakes, promising an unforgettable escape.

5. Panama

This Central American country has been a favorite retirement spot for decades, and it continues to have major appeal to those looking to kick back, relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. With its beautiful weather, sunny beaches, modern infrastructure, rich local culture and sizable English-speaking population, there’s a lot to like about Panama. On top of everything, the cost of living is a fraction of what you’d pay stateside, without compromising quality of life. Panama is well aware of its appeal to international retirees and the benefits that this brings to its economy. As such, it has at times made a “retirement visa” available that entitles newly arrived expats to a wide variety of perks, as well as certain tax and exemptions that help your savings go even further!

3 best places to visit:

Biomuseo

Unveiling Panama's natural wonders and human impact, the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, stands out with its vibrant, fragmented architecture. Explore how the Isthmus of Panama's formation shaped the planet's ecosystem and delve into the fascinating interplay between humans and nature within this unique museum.

Islands and parks

Panama's untouched beauty lies in its vast tropical forests and numerous islands scattered along its coasts, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

One of the country's most captivating natural wonders is Coiba National Park. Encompassing Coiba Island and its surrounding islets, this park boasts exceptional marine biodiversity. From the thousands of fish species thriving in its waters to the sea turtles nesting on its shores, Coiba has earned the nickname "the new Galapagos" among seasoned divers.

Panama Canal

Panama boasts the Panama Canal, an 82-kilometer human-made marvel allowing ships to bypass South America and directly connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This engineering feat uses a lock system to navigate ships through Gatun Lake, offering a must-see experience for any visitor to Panama.

Retirement: a time to trade in deadlines for sunrises, replace stress with serenity, and embark on a new chapter brimming with possibilities. But choosing the ideal location for this next adventure can feel overwhelming. Where can you find a place that fosters both a tranquil escape and an engaging lifestyle? Worry not, for this article serves as your compass, navigating you towards countries that excel in offering the perfect balance for fulfilling retirements. We'll delve into destinations that prioritize safety, ensuring peace of mind. 

So, pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare to discover the perfect haven for your golden years!