Flag of Ecuador
This time, the ranking was topped by the Latin American country Ecuador, which scored 92.7 points. In Ecuador, according to the compilers of the ranking, you can get much more for one dollar than in the US or Canada.
Thus, according to the website «Ecuador Today», a visit to a good private doctor will cost on average $10, and you can have lunch at a restaurant for $2.50 per person, explained executive editor Jennifer Stevens.
In this small South American country, real estate prices are relatively low, and people over 65, both citizens and foreign residents, have large discounts – for example, 50% on movie theaters and sports events, as well as on public transport and utility bills. Airline tickets are also cheaper for them.
The country's economy has been growing, outpacing neighboring countries, by an average of 3-5% per year for 15 years, which means infrastructure will only improve. For less than $2,000, a couple of retirees can live comfortably in a country friendly to foreigners, the publication notes. (We note for our part that for such an amount, Ukrainian retirees would generally call their country a paradise.)
In second place in the ranking was Mexico, followed by Panama. Panama was recognized as the best country for retirees among Central American countries. Like Ecuador, it offers visas for retirees who receive a lifetime pension of more than $1000. The visa provides discounts on medical services, entertainment, food, airline tickets, as well as on telephone and electricity tariffs.
Malaysia – a major destination for retirees in Asia – received a high score for easy adaptation conditions for foreigners, a range of services, entertainment and leisure activities, as well as a low cost of living. Dinner with a bottle of wine there can cost at least $5, and a visit to a doctor $15.
The top ten countries for retirees also include Costa Rica, Malta, Spain, Portugal, Colombia, and Thailand. There are 25 countries in total on the list. Russia is not mentioned in the ranking.