Retire To Puerto Vallarta Or Punta Del Este…

June 3, 2009

"Kathleen, I have enjoy your daily e-mails for quite awhile now. But still I am lost when it comes right down to where I should retire. Maybe you can give me some suggestions.

"I am a single 63-year-old man who likes a simple life. I'm looking for a quiet two- or three-bedroom place to rent preferably close to the ocean where I can fish, walk, and explore but not far from good entertainment (like shows, plays, and concerts), eating, shopping, and medical care, and within an hour or two of a international airport.

"I want to be able to get American TV, Internet, and phone service.

"I don't speak a foreign language and think it would be difficult for me to learn one.

"I will have about US$4,000 a month in retirement income.

"I don't like it too hot (not hotter than 90 degrees Fahrenheit) or too cold (below 45). I would like a maid to keep the house clean. I love to cook but like to eat out often. I would like to be around other Americans.

"Is there such a place for me that I can afford on my retirement income?"

-- Bob W., United States

On your retirement budget, dear reader, you could retire nearly anywhere in the world.

Your other criteria are more limiting.

Anywhere in Panama near to the water is going to be too hot for you. Likewise, Belize, Honduras, the Dominican Republic...probably too hot for your tastes.

Argentina offers interesting choices that could check all your boxes...except your desire to be near the ocean.

In parts of Europe near the coast where you could get by without learning the local language, you likely wouldn't be able to afford a maid.

I'd suggest you consider Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, or maybe Punta del Este, Uruguay.

The language might be an issue for you in Punta del Este, but Puerto Vallarta? I'd say that could be your ticket.

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