European destinations for retirement are calling to U.S. residents, in part, because of the strength of the dollar versus the euro, according to Live and Invest Overseas, a website for information on all things international.
Exotic destinations in emerging countries have long been an economical haven for U.S. seniors who want to live well in retirement on as little money as possible. However, not everyone is cut out for life in a developing country. But for now it does not take a king’s ransom to live well on the European Continent, according to Live and Invest Overseas.
“Your buying advantage is big, but it won’t last forever. We believe we are at the start of a long, slow decline of the dollar versus the euro,” the organization says. “If the life you dream of comes right now with a euro-denominated price tag, you should be thinking about closing on the deal.”
Live and Invest Overseas goes so far as to advise even those who are not ready to retire to buy now and rent until retirement day comes. The organization selected five European destinations where retirees’ dollars will go the furthest and the culture, weather and people also enhance the days.
No. 5. Marais, Paris, France
The Marais district of Paris retains much of its medieval character. To live in district is to live in the heart -- geographic, cultural, historical, architectural, and social -- of this city that is considered by many to be the ground zero of refined Western culture. The neighborhood has an excess of historical sites and museums, including the Place des Vosges (the home of Victor Hugo), the Pompidou Center, the Picasso Museum, and the Carnavalet Museum. Within a 20-minute walk are Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, La Conciergerie, the Panthéon, and the Louvre.
No. 4. Carcassone, France
Walt Disney is said to have been inspired by the towers, turrets and ramparts here. It’s easy to imagine a knight galloping up the cobbled streets and dashing through the portcullis to save his princess. The area has much to offer tourists and residents alike.
Within the Cité section are the medieval castle, St. Nazarius Basilica, boutiques, artists’ workshops, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Life in the Bastide section is centered on the Place Carnot with its pretty fountain, street-side cafés and restaurants. Just 10 minutes’ drive from the city center is an 18-hole golf course and a park with freshwater swimming, hiking, and areas for picnics. Within an hour of Carcassonne are the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean, and 90 minutes away is skiing in the Pyrenees.
No. 3. Abruzzo, Italy
Live and Invest Overseas says it is hard to think of a lovelier corner of Italy than Abruzzo. The beaches are golden, and the sea rolls out like a giant bolt of turquoise silk. There are mountains, too, meaning that, living here, you’d have both skiing and beachcombing on your doorstep, depending on the season. This region is one of Italy’s secret treasures. No overcrowding, no heavy industry, only castles, vineyards, and villages made of stone.
No. 2. Barcelona, Spain
Despite being Spain’s second-biggest city, Barcelona is easy to explore, thanks to its compact, well-laid-out design. This city has a great deal to offer, from fantastic art and architecture (pre-Roman to Modernista), to theaters, restaurants, and shopping. All the stuff of all the world’s best cities is here, plus you have easy access to the beautiful Costa Brava to the north and the Costa Dorada to the south.
Barcelona is the economic, cultural, and administrative capital of Catalonia, situated in the northeast of Spain on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Each neighborhood has its own community spirit, and most even have their own fiestas. More than 150 nationalities live in Barcelona, a reflection of the Catalan peoples’ open and receptive character that foreigners find so attractive.
No. 1. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve region of Portugal is not only Europe’s top retirement destination, but the world’s, according to Live and Invest Overseas. Located at the continent’s westernmost tip and boasting 100 miles of Atlantic coastline, the Algarve could be Europe’s most famous secret. This region boasts Europe’s best beaches, Europe’s best golf courses, some of Europe’s friendliest people, and Western Europe’s lowest cost of living.
Meanwhile, Portugal is Europe’s newest tax haven and offers Europe’s best residency requirements.
