If you’re heading toward retirement and still thinking about where you want to spend your golden years, why not go somewhere warm, tropical, and filled with natural beauty? In 2024, GoBankingRates shared a list of the top places to retire with “tropical paradise” vibes all over the world. These destinations offer the ideal environment for retirees who have plenty of time on their hands now that they are no longer working. While it wasn’t a ranked list, Bali, Indonesia, was at the top.
“Bali continues to be a popular destination for retirees seeking a rich cultural experience paired with stunning natural beauty,” The report said. “Known for its lush landscapes and affordable cost of living, Bali offers a balance of relaxation and exploration. The island provides a range of health care options, from local clinics to international hospitals, ensuring retirees have access to quality medical care.”
Bali makes for a fantastic retirement destination as it has a much lower cost of living compared to the United States, helping your dollar stretch further when you’re not working. It also offers an array of living options, including everything from lively beach towns to quiet villages, so everyone can find the speed they’re after. Not to mention, Bali is home to a vibrant culture that values great food, spending time together, and festivals galore.
There are, however, a few essential visa requirements everyone should be aware of before booking their ticket to retirement. The basic requirement for Indonesia’s Retirement Visa (aka the E33F visa) is that the person must be 55 years or older, show a bank account statement with at least a $2,000 balance, and have proof of income amounting to at least $3,000 per month.
There’s also the (very cheeky) “Silver Hair” visa (aka the E33E visa), which requires the person to be aged 60 years or older and “deposit funds in an account in his/her own name worth at least U.S. $50,000 in a state-owned bank.” They also must prove that they receive at least $3,000 per month in income or benefits.
According to the GoBankingRates report, “warm climates, stunning beaches, and interesting neighborhoods provide the perfect setting for a fulfilling retirement.” It went on to say that tropical destinations like Bali “stand out for their affordability, quality of life, and overall appeal.”
Looking for more tropical places to settle down in your retirement? The report also named Costa Rica as a perfect warm-weather retirement spot, along with Malta, Panama, Hawaii, and Portugal‘s Algarve region (though, as a Portuguese resident, I will note it does get decidedly chilly here in the fall and winter). See more about each selection at GoBankingRates.com.