As you approach retirement, you’re probably starting to wonder, what’s next? Perhaps you crave adventure, maybe you want new sights—and maybe, to find those things, you’ve considered moving to Latin America.
Different countries offer various benefits and unique lifestyles. Some feature gorgeous countryside while others provide top-notch healthcare. Where you move all depends on your priorities as you retire. To help you make a decision, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Latin American countries to live in once as you retire.
First Thing’s First: How Do I Choose a Place to Retire?
When it comes to finding your ideal place to retire there are a lot of things to consider, including:
- Healthcare and Senior Care. Do some research into what the healthcare benefits and senior care options are in your desired new home. Does the city offer quality senior care as you age? Is there universal healthcare?
- Family and Friends. Moving to a new country can be tough, especially when it means leaving people behind. Will you have any friends and family close to your new home? Are you able to stay in touch after you retire? Is your destination a place your friends and family can visit?
- Taxes & Cost of Living. Cost of living can change immensely from place to place. Can you easily afford this new city? What additional expenses will you have to factor into your retirement fund?
- Weather. Weather is probably top of mind as you look for a place to retire. Are you looking to move somewhere hot and sunny? Cool and snowy? Before making any decisions, do some research on what your prospective homes are like year-round.
- Your Interests and Hobbies. Does this new location offer enough opportunities for the things you already love to do? You’ll probably find new hobbies along the way, but you want to make sure you’ll be able to continue the activities you enjoy!
4 of the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Live in
1. Mexico
Why You Should Retire to Mexico:
The cost of living in Mexico is relatively low. Commodities and luxuries cost less than they do in the United States. This means that your retirement funds will stretch a little further! Services such as housekeeping are cheaper in Mexico, too.
If you move to Mexico, hire a maid or chef and clear up some time in your schedule to do some of the things you love. Visit the beach, take dance lessons or learn to paint a Mexican sunset. Stop by the local market and buy fresh produce daily. Ask your neighbors to teach you how to make authentic Mexican cuisine like pozole, tamales or pan dulce (sweet bread).
Mexico also offers exceptional health and dental care. In fact, medical care in Mexico costs half as much as it does in the US. The majority of Mexican doctors and dentists obtained part or all of their training in the United States. When you move to Mexico, you have immediate access to outstanding hospitals and dental offices.
1. Ecuador
Why You Should Retire to Ecuador:
If you follow other retirees to Ecuador, you can bask in the colonial architecture, warm beaches and mountain shadows. Local street vendors and markets sell delightful fruits and vegetables year-round, too! No matter what you like to do, each area of Ecuador gives you a different adventure.
The population of Ecuador is approximately 17 million people; about 40,000 of those are Americans. Americans love Ecuador because the country offers reasonable prices on homes, goods and an economical cost of living. Additionally, residents 65 years and older obtain public transportation and airfare prices at high discounts.
Like most Latin American countries, Ecuador administers healthcare at incredible prices. Hospitals in bigger cities utilize advanced medical technology, and hospitals employ specialized and skilled physicians to care for you and your every need.
1. Costa Rica
Why You Should Retire to Costa Rica:
If you were to retire to Costa Rica, the beach or jungle could be your new backyard. Admire the exotic culture and wildlife while you sip on fresh fruit juice! Costa Rica offers a tropical climate along with clear lakes and dense green plains. Visit the local restaurants and markets for a taste of coastal cuisine.
Costa Rica offers universal healthcare through private or government-run systems. Also, the Costa Rican government regularly updates the hospitals and medical equipment and improves staff training to provide quality healthcare.
1. Chile
Why You Should Retire to Chile:
Chile is one of the most topographically diverse countries in Latin America. It encompasses multiple environments such as snowy mountains, sunny deserts and crisp coasts. If you enjoy city life, live in Santiago (pictured above) or Concepción. Prefer the coast? Viña del Mar may be your perfect fit. Want penguins in your backyard? Move to Osorno.
You won’t find certain American products in the negocios (street-corner stores), but you can go grab them at the nearest Lider (Walmart)! However, if you’re looking to fully dive into the Chile culture you can savor delectable foods such as empanadas de pino, pastel de choclo and fresh bread known as hallullas and pan amasado.
Chile boasts about its healthcare and cutting-edge medical advancement programs. However, most first-rate hospitals only pertain to bigger cities such as Santiago and Concepción.
Know Where You’re Headed? Get Help with Your International Move!
As you prepare for retirement and a new international adventure, consider the countries listed above. You won’t feel disappointed in the beautiful memories you make when you retire to Latin America. When you’ve made your choice and you are ready to move, contact Wheaton for more information about our international moving services or to get started with your relocation.
