If you’re a Brit looking to retire abroad, the options are much larger than they were a few years ago, and retiring abroad doesn’t mean goodbye forever. Air travel and high speed internet connections mean you can still visit your family back home or keep in touch online whenever you like. Also, pensions and other benefits do not end the moment you leave Dover and there are many ways you can make your hard earned money work hard for you.
Let’s take a look at some of the top retirement destinations for Brits and the many benefits each has to offer. Here are six of our suggestions.
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The Algarve, Portugal
With it’s warm climate, beautiful beaches and laid back way of life, it is easy to see why so many retirees flock to the Algarve. This Old World area set in the Atlantic Ocean is home to over 100,000 resident expats and that number is growing and growing. Fishing villages, open markets, medieval towns and the local wine are just some of the benefits on offer here. The weather is also stunning and you can enjoy over 3,300 hours of sunshine every year.
Copenhagen, Denmark
A recent study by a university in Leicester found that Copenhagen has the highest life satisfaction and happiness rankings in the world today. The Danish healthcare system is extremely good, although the cost of living is high so this might be a decided factor. The city is easy to navigate and live in even if you don’t have a good grasp of Danish and there is art, culture and scenery in abundance here.
Benidorm, Spain
Benidorm in Spain has a thriving British expat community and it is easy to see why so many Brits plan out their retirement here. During high season the streets are full of tourists, but when they have all gone home, the streets take on a calmer, more cosmopolitan feel. If you are looking for a home away from home where you’ll make lots of British friends (and plenty from other countries too) Benidorm ticks all of the right boxes.
Provence, France
Offering one of the best healthcare systems in the world, Southern France is perfect for expats looking to make a new life in the sun. Here you can enjoy an abundance of natural beauty, pleasant country life, wine tasting and relaxation and a rich history. If you love walking, you will love Provence, it’s many beaches and fascinating cities. There really is something to capture the hearts and minds of everybody who visits.
Bruges, Belgium
The rich history, cuisine and culture of Bruges in Belgium make it a top retirement destination for many Brits. Here, housing is relatively affordable, even deep within the city, and the medieval destination means there are very interesting historic properties up for grabs. In fact, Belgium was listed as one of the top 10 best countries to live in for British Expats in a recent HSBC survey.
Cuenca, Ecuador
If you are looking for a retirement option far away from Europe, Cuenca in Ecuador could be the perfect destination. Featuring beautiful mountains, old cathedrals and plenty of wilderness to explore, this World Heritage Site is very popular with those looking to live out their retirement years abroad. The low cost of living, Social Security support and expat friendly way of life are all major plus points.
