12 Best Places to Retire Around the World

"Costa Rica's 'pura vida' culture, varied environments from the Caribbean to the Pacific, and generally reasonable cost of living make it appealing—San José housing is about 79% lower than New York City and consumer prices about 44% lower. Residency options include the Pensionado Program, which requires a monthly income of at least $1,000 transferred to a Costa Rican bank, and the Rentista Program, which requires a minimum of $60,000 or a monthly income of $2,500 for at least two years. Health care is available through public and private systems: residents can access the national medical program with no co-pays or exclusions, or choose private care with out-of-pocket costs that can be self-insured or covered by private insurance." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines