I'm thinking about retiring: is there a place on earth where you can live decently if you are not rich?

Question

Someone suggested me Thailand or Panama: I'm open to any suggestion. I like a mild climate and an affordable cost of living (kind of $1000 a month)

Answer 1

Hey there!

I have spent long term stays in a number of places that might fit your ideas.

Thailand is probably one of the greatest expatriate destinations, if not THE best, in Asia for budget living. Also very notable is India. There are a number of places, ie Goa, with large expatriate populations.

Costa Rica is also a great place, as are most of Central & South America.

Of course, with all of these types of places, you have various factors to deal with. Poverty, higher crime levels, issues over pollution (especially drinking & bathing water)...that sort of stuff.

Answer 2

Panama is a very popular retirement destination nowadays. It is much more developed than other parts of the region, yet the cost of living has remained low. The government is attracting retirees with its 'pensionado' program, which offers retirees lots of discounts on day-to-day activities. The climate is quite hot in Panama City, but in regions of higher altitudes the climate is much more mild. Boquete is a popular retirement destination in part because of its mild climate, but prices have gone up recently. For $1,000 you will not live like a king, but you can live decently. For more information, check out: http://www.internationalliving.com/panama/retire.html

Answer 3

Time to think about Saskatchewan, if you don't mind having the full four seasons. On the amount you suggest, you can live really comfortably, have wonderful amenities, and a gentle lifestyle. Depending on your interests, there is tons to do - unequalled fishing, a beautiful and undisturbed north, many service clubs and the people are wonderful. There are two major cities, five or so smaller ones, and many beautiful towns. The best thing about Sask. is the quality of life!
Thus ends the ad for my home province...

Answer 4

Hi, I am a pensioner in Australia. I live comfortably here on about $1000 Aust dollars, a month. I don't smoke or drink, only an occasional red wine,this is expensive here but I travel a lot around this country a lot. I have a small caravan and travel by myself.
You can feel very safe here.
You haven't said where you live now!

Answer 5

I like Australia.Their money is worth about $1.30 per American dollar.The climate is varied ,but,it is very nice and hot year around in most areas.The people are very nice,too.There are many recreational activities to do as well.If you are in the U.S.,I would recommend the Southwestern states.If you prefer the North such as Canada,I would highly recommend Vancouver.

Answer 6

Costa Rica is not too bad.