If you could spend the golden years of life anywhere in the world, where would you go?

According to a recent study, some destinations may be better than others.

Published annually, the International Living Global Retirement Index uses a combination of data points such as cost of living, climate, medical benefits, bureaucracy and qualitative expat experiences to rank the best places to spend this season. special of life.

Living’s Global Retirement Index’s 10 Retirement Hot Spots in 2022

10.Uruguay

Located between Argentina and Brazil, this Spanish-speaking nation offers easy visa and residency processes, inexpensive healthcare, hot summers and mild winters.

A diverse range of lifestyles are on offer, and depending on your budget, you can park at a sprawling ranch or farm, beach town, or bustling city.

If outdoor adventures, vibrant culture and great food are also a priority, this is a perfect spot.

9. Spain

With picturesque beaches, a warm climate and an even warmer culture, it’s no surprise that Spain is on the list of retirees to consider.

The combination of accessible nature, high quality healthcare and a healthy Mediterranean diet has also made it an ideal place for those who care about staying healthy.

8. Malta

It might not be the cheapest retirement destination and the summers can get a bit hot and humid, but if you’re a sun-loving retiree, Malta isn’t a bad place to spend the day.

Traditionally Arab but with a Western European influence, the country is an ideal blend of familiar and foreign, with a world-class healthcare system and food scene.

Take your pick from coastal fishing villages, small towns or rocky mountain ranges and take time to familiarize yourself with Maltese, which is also spoken alongside English.

7.France

If you’re looking to indulge in the finer things in life, few places beat France.

Whether you’re embracing a healthy village living in the provinces or partying in Paris, there really is a little something for everyone.

For many years, British expats have shone in lesser-known regions like the Dordogne, notes the International Living Index.

In addition to gourmet cuisine, rich history, and accessible housing costs in some areas, residents also benefit from a top-notch healthcare system with price protection.

6. Ecuador

Warm climate? To verify. The abundance of culture? To verify. Affordable? To verify.

What can we say, Ecuador ticks a lot of boxes for those looking to enjoy their later years in a warm and vibrant region.

Settle into one of their modern cities or laid-back beach communities and spend those free days exploring the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands or the Andes Mountains.

5. Colombia

Just across the border, Colombia offers a similar charm to Ecuador with a bit more finesse.

Likewise, residents will have access to rainforests, islands, and mountains, as well as excellent healthcare, relatively low living and property costs, and a simple visa application process.

Spaniard a bit rusty? No worries, English is widely spoken throughout the region.

4.Portugal

Portugal’s quaint towns and pristine beaches have long drawn travelers of all ages, including those at dusk.

According to the 2022 index, the friendly locals, low crime rate, exceptional healthcare system, and affordability make it a great place not only to visit, but also to retire.

English is widely spoken in some areas or residents can challenge themselves and take a free Portuguese course offered by the government.

The country has friendly people, a low cost of living, a world-class healthcare system, and a low crime rate, making it a safe, enjoyable, and affordable place to live.

3. Mexico

Coming in at No. 3 is a favorite with American retirees looking for a summer spot that isn’t hard on the savings.

The country has a wide range of climates, environments and lifestyles to suit all types of travelers, from seaside resorts or bustling cities to serene coastlines or inland deserts.

Affordable healthcare makes it a hotspot for medical tourism, while simple visa and residency processes make it easier to travel compared to other countries.

2. Costa Rica

Between its tropical climate, low living and medical costs, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals, there’s no doubt that Costa Rica is a mecca for mature travelers.

Located between Panama and Nicaragua, the Central American country boasts high literacy rates, a stable democracy and offers access to one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, according to the index.

Meanwhile, residents can enjoy almost every type of natural scene, from jungles and beaches to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

1. Panama

The golden point for your golden years is Panama, and not for the first time.

If a life of tropical climates, top hospitals and medical services, low crime rates, friendly people sound like a good start, this destination is worth considering.

Whether you prefer beach vibes, peaceful mountains, rugged highlands, or fast-paced cities, Panama has it all and consistently manages to be one of only three carbon negative countries in the world.