Luxury Life Travel – Top 5 Retirement Lifestyle Destinations

I have previously explored the secrets to early retirement and living in luxury, but where should one enjoy these well-deserved years in opulence? Retirement is about experiencing life to the fullest, sometimes in a foreign destination of wonderment and excitement.

Relocating to a new place allows you to dive into different cultural experiences, relax in a new environment, and meet people from all around the world. If retiring in luxury you should consider places that offer breath-taking views, top-rated restaurants, and high-end homes. Here are five of the top locations to consider when planning your retirement. 

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Do beaches, islands, and rainforests invigorate your senses the most? Well, then Malaysia may be the ideal retirement location for you. English is widely spoken in Malaysia, making it an easy transition for most when settling here. Those looking to live an outdoor lifestyle will love the various activities and endless beauty accompanied by year-round sunshine.  

Johor Bahru lies at the Malaysian peninsula's tip, less than a mile north of Singapore's wealthy island nation, which can be accessed by bridge. A couple can live comfortably in Johor Bahru on a monthly budget of approximately $1,700. This includes renting a modern Western-style apartment of comfort, owning a car, eating out multiple times a week, and all other incidental expenses. The relatively low cost of living means your money will further, and you will always maintain a high standard of living.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is not only a premier American vacation destination but also a clever retirement choice. Those who play on the best golf courses in the world and wish to indulge in frequent rounds during retirement will find it to be the perfect location. It’s almost always sunny in Scottsdale, with only seven inches of rainfall recorded annually. 

Retirees have dozens of golf courses to choose from, but that’s not all. There are more than 125 galleries, museums, and performing art venues to explore. You can also shop at various boutique stores and take advantage of the fine dining experiences the city has to offer. Scottsdale is one of the fastest-growing areas in America and is loaded with luxurious homes and condos, which you could one day call home. Retiring comfortably comes easy in this desertscape of hills and unique rock formations.

Spain 

Spain has picturesque landscapes – from stunning beaches to sky-touching mountains and luscious forests, this slice of Mediterranean heaven has it all. Yet, we haven't even mentioned the delicious cuisine, world-class festivals, and friendly locals. Spain's energy is infectious, and besides needing to learn the language, those retiring will find the transition into this new atmosphere smooth.

In España, you will find all the comforts of home and your luxury lifestyle infused with a mystic old-world charm. You'll fall in love with the local culture and find peace of mind having one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Spain is a beautiful destination for both your health and wealth.  I have been here more than once and always loved the feel of the country, if anything have a visit to see if it is your vibe.

New York City

Did you know that New York City is home to more billionaires than any other city in the U.S.? 

The big apple is home to many who live a luxury life, and with good reason – there are a variety of opulent things the city has to offer. Mass transit, elite doctors, and a multicultural population make New York City a firm favorite retirement option. 

Designer shops, award-winning restaurants, and the best entertainment imaginable all live in one city, and so could you. For the right price, one can enjoy a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline and a bustling central park from the luxury of their apartment. Retiring can be a lot of fun when it’s in the city of dreams.  Or even consider area’s like The Hamptons, which have loads of luxury (and beaches), are away from the hustle & bustle of the city, but also close enough for you to go in for a show, shopping, and a fine meal.

Italy

Discover romance, picturesque settings, timeless villages, snow-covered mountains, and obscure islands during the next chapter of your life in Italy. Take your taste buds on a journey through the finest foods from the undisputed food gods of Italia. Enjoy a sensory overload of beauty while gazing upon magnificent landscapes and mesmerizing real estate. Retiring in Italy is a magical experience, one straight out of a fairy-tale.  

Sounds pretty amazing, right?  Well, I have enjoyed some time in Italy and found all of it to be true.  It’s a great country with lovely people, a place that one can easily find themselves at home in.

These retirement destinations and their associated costs of living should factor into your wealth planning to ensure a future of flourishing in a foreign city.  

If you are looking to venture from your native land in retirement, now is the time to start searching, with these strong contenders top of mind. As much as you only live once, you only retire once too, hopefully! Make the most of your retirement and enjoy the best quality of life by finding the luxury destination for you. 

Thanks for reading as always!

Cheers,

Derek Notman