In a few hours, you could be on the white-sand beaches of the Philippines or climbing through the golden temples of Myanmar. Penang is situated almost smack in the middle of Southeast Asia, which makes traveling to places like Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia a breeze. Known as a foodie haven, Penang’s largest city, George Town, is home to eclectic architecture, a vibrant art scene, and the best street food in the world. It’s a luxury life on an affordable budget with all the comforts and conveniences of home. A couple can live well on a monthly budget of between $1,500 and $2,500 a month. Here, the lifestyle is First World-it’s possible to trade-up. Not only are people friendly and helpful but retirees can talk to them in English. A former outpost of the British Empire, Penang’s English-speaking populace makes it easy for North American expats to fit in. The island of Penang, off the coast of Malaysia, has been a firm favorite among savvy expats for decades. Here, a couple can live well from $2,500 a month, depending on lifestyle. It’s the perfect place to weigh anchor in the western Mediterranean-and the year-round mild climate helps there too.

The whole coastline of this 1,405-square-mile island is ringed with marinas and harbor and natural rock-lined coves offering privacy. You’ll also find Roman ruins-evidence of its importance as an outpost of that empire. You’ll find evidence of its long history in the Gothic cathedral of the capital city, Palma, and the hilltop castles in the mountainous countryside, as well as Arab structures built before the Reconquest. Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, the autonomous Spanish region just off the coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Here, the English-speaking population-a legacy of British colonization-makes it easy for North Americans to adjust to life.įor centuries, Malta has been a sought-after destination and Valletta, Malta’s capital city-the European Capital of Culture 2018-is an especially desirable location with rolling hills reminiscent of San Francisco.ĭollars can go surprisingly far here, with couples living comfortably on $2,600 per month.

Home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the islands-with over 155 miles of coastline-benefit from warm weather year-round. #1 MaltaĪt only 122 square miles, the tiny island nation of Malta has something for everyone- from ancient walled cities and breathtaking coastal trails to countryside farmhouses and charming restaurants. All are locales where you can find privacy, peace, a simpler way of life, and strong communities. Here we’ve hand-picked 15 islands, scattered around the globe that make for an affordable retirement.

Sound tempting?įolks often dream of retiring to an island in search of romance, fun, and adventure-and these days you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy all that island living offers. Picture yourself lying on a deserted beach sipping your favorite cocktail and enjoying the ocean breeze.

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