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Algarve still first choice for expat retirees
| Published: | 14 Aug at 6 PM |
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Portugal’s spectacular Algarve region is top of the list for expat retirees for the fourth year running.
A recent report by Live and Invest Overseas has awarded the Algarve region of Portugal first place as the perfect retirement destination. Researchers cited every aspect of the physically beautiful region as the reason why Portugal is the best place to begin a new life in retirement.
Year-round sunshine and warmth came top of the list, with the friendly welcome given to expat retirees by the established expat community coming a strong second. Very much appreciated was the fact that many locals can speak English, especially since Portuguese is one of the world’s trickiest tongues to master. At present, property prices are strikingly low compared with those in the UK, USA and the rest of Europe, with even villas close by the beach priced at an affordable level.
The cost of living itself is lower than in expats’ home countries, and locally grown, ultra-fresh produce is easily available in local markets. Importantly for older expatriates, Portuguese public healthcare is high quality as well as easily available to resident incomers who’ve registered with local medical centres. Overall, medical services are rated as 12th highest in the world.
American investors are in a good position right now, as the stronger US dollar gives more euros than previously, resulting in super-charged buying power. Britons aren’t as lucky, but the difference in costs between Portugal and the UK more than makes up for the weaker pound sterling. For those with long-term medical insurance and who prefer private medical care, the Algarve has a string of hospitals with a reputation for excellence, although the public facilites are best for emergency treatment.
For retirees determined to build up their health through outdoor activities, golf is the way, with 35 golf clubs dotted across the region. Uncrowded, beautiful beaches, biking and hiking trails and the sheer beauty of the countryside make getting out and away a dream. Importantly, Portugal is famous for its low crime and peaceful environment, with the already safe Algarve region showing even lower crime rates year by year. All in all, the Algarve is a perfect retirement hub for those looking to make the most of their older years.
A recent report by Live and Invest Overseas has awarded the Algarve region of Portugal first place as the perfect retirement destination. Researchers cited every aspect of the physically beautiful region as the reason why Portugal is the best place to begin a new life in retirement.
Year-round sunshine and warmth came top of the list, with the friendly welcome given to expat retirees by the established expat community coming a strong second. Very much appreciated was the fact that many locals can speak English, especially since Portuguese is one of the world’s trickiest tongues to master. At present, property prices are strikingly low compared with those in the UK, USA and the rest of Europe, with even villas close by the beach priced at an affordable level.
The cost of living itself is lower than in expats’ home countries, and locally grown, ultra-fresh produce is easily available in local markets. Importantly for older expatriates, Portuguese public healthcare is high quality as well as easily available to resident incomers who’ve registered with local medical centres. Overall, medical services are rated as 12th highest in the world.
American investors are in a good position right now, as the stronger US dollar gives more euros than previously, resulting in super-charged buying power. Britons aren’t as lucky, but the difference in costs between Portugal and the UK more than makes up for the weaker pound sterling. For those with long-term medical insurance and who prefer private medical care, the Algarve has a string of hospitals with a reputation for excellence, although the public facilites are best for emergency treatment.
For retirees determined to build up their health through outdoor activities, golf is the way, with 35 golf clubs dotted across the region. Uncrowded, beautiful beaches, biking and hiking trails and the sheer beauty of the countryside make getting out and away a dream. Importantly, Portugal is famous for its low crime and peaceful environment, with the already safe Algarve region showing even lower crime rates year by year. All in all, the Algarve is a perfect retirement hub for those looking to make the most of their older years.
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