Ecuador Voted World’s Best Place To Retire

Ecuador has been named the world’s best place to retire. Situated near the Equator in South America, Ecuador offers a wide variety of climates and landscapes. Not only is the country beautiful, the cost of living is surprisingly affordable.

International Living compiled The World’s Best Places To Retire In 2015 using data from their Annual Global Retirement Index. The index examines several factors, including cost of living, climate, and health care.

The result was a “comprehensive list of the best bang-for-your buck retirement destinations on the planet.” In addition to Ecuador, the publishing group suggests Panama, Mexico, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Spain, Malta, and Colombia as the best possible places to retire.

As healthcare and finances are a specific concern for retirees, Ecuador is a logical retirement destination. On average, monthly expenses, including housing, are less than $1,500.

Correspondent Wendy DeChambeau explains.

“A doctor’s visit will set you back around $10, while a main course in a restaurant can be had for as little as $2.50. The bus trip from Cotacachi to Otavalo will cost you 25 cents.”

In addition to the already low cost of living, retirees are eligible for discounts on entertainment, public transportation, travel packages, and utilities.

International Living also recommends Ecuador as the world’s best place to retire as the culture is incredibly diverse. Although the country has managed to preserve indigenous traditions, Ecuador has also embraced a great deal of African and European culture.

Retiring in Ecuador certainly sounds appealing. However, expats may experience a bit of culture shock. Six years ago, Dan Prescher and his wife left Nebraska to move to Ecuador’s coast. Although the Preschers love the beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and low cost of living, they did experience a period of adjustment.

Prescher offers some advice for those wishing to move to Ecuador.

“Some people get here and think it’s America light, but it’s not… If you have a good sense of humor and like a daily challenge, Ecuador is for you… This is a place for self-starters who don’t need canned tomatoes and will make tomato sauce themselves.”

As reported by Forbes, expats should also take the time to learn Spanish, which is Ecuador’s official language.

The complete list of The World’s Best Places To Retire In 2015 includes 25 countries, which provide retirees ample opportunity to “live comfortably, make friends, stay busy, give back… ”

It is clear to see why Ecuador was chosen as the world’s best place to retire, especially for those who are willing to relocate.

[Image via OutlookAub]