9 International Locales to Retire and Live Better

5) Thailand

Thailand has a lot to offer retirees in the way of culture, landscape and low cost of living but the real draw for pensioners to Thailand is the healthcare. While good healthcare is available in most parts of the country, particularly the big cities, Bangkok is the best place to go for hospital procedures or any kind of long-term care. Good, affordable health insurance plans are available and basic doctor’s visits and dental work can cost as little as $30 a pop. Property prices in Thailand can be spectacularly low but bear in mind that foreigners cannot but property in Thailand unless married to a Thai national. Petrol costs a pittance so you can take plenty of long drives amongst Thailand’s gorgeous landscapes or even get yourself a scooter and experience the vibrant city scene. There are thriving ex-pat communities in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and resort towns like Hua Hin and Phuket so you can slip right into the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. It’s thought that even in the desirable city of Chiang Mai a couple can live comfortably on a budget of around $1500 per month.