3 Overseas Havens Where Retirees Can Live Rich On Social Security
In June, the average monthly Social Security check for retired workers hit $2,005.05. It's a source of income that millions of Americans rely upon when they leave the workforce—but is it enough?
According to Consumer Expenditure Surveys data, the average retired household in the U.S. spends around $5,000 per month. That's quite the shortfall.
For those looking to get the most bang for buck from their retirement income, a move overseas could be the answer.
First, it's important to note that while there are many retirement havens where you can live well on a budget of $2,000 a month or less, making a move overseas does involve additional expenses.
You will need to factor in the cost of moving—yourself, your belongings, your pets—and getting legal residency. It's also advisable to have a contingency fund set aside for other expenses such as health care, a rental deposit, trips back home, etc.
In addition, you will need to meet the income requirements for the residency visa in your chosen country. Some countries don't require proof of income for residency or have no set minimum amount. Others come with a high income threshold—Ireland's is €50,000 per person per year.
All this considered, here are three great overseas options for those looking to stretch their retirement income without compromising on their standard of living.
Freedom Beach, Phuket, Thailand. getty
Phuket, Thailand's biggest island, is adorned with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, verdant jungle, and majestic limestone cliffs. It's located close to the equator, so enjoys hot to warm weather throughout the year. The average high is 90°F and average low is 75°F.
This exotic spot is home to an expat community of more than 100,000—many of them English-speaking—so settling in and making friends can be an easy process.
There are two private hospitals in Phuket: Bangkok Phuket Hospital and Phuket International Hospital. They treat thousands of foreigners and locals every year and offer superb quality care and English-speaking staff.
The low costs are a big draw, too. Here, many indulgences—from dining out at nice restaurants to spa treatments to fishing trips to health and wellness services—cost much less than what you'd pay in North America.
Phuket is a dream destination for outdoor recreation lovers with every kind of water sport imaginable available. Hiking, golf, and padel are popular here, too. Social groups organize around diverse interests and you'll find sports leagues, volunteer opportunities, get-togethers at bars, trivia nights, charity events, networking events, and more on offer here.
Thailand's retirement visa is called the Non-Immigrant O-A Visa. The basic requirements are that you are at least 50 years old, receive an income of about $2,000 per month, and carry health insurance. This visa is valid for one year at a time and can be renewed indefinitely.
Southeast Asia is famous for its affordability, and while Phuket's popularity with tourists and expats has driven up prices in recent years, it's still budget-friendly by most people's standards and a monthly income of $2,000 would afford you a comfortable life here. Long-term rentals start around $500 a month. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza, Argentina. getty
Mendoza is Latin America's first wine-growing region, and where vines grow, the living is generally good.
Here in the interior of Argentina, food, wine, and interesting conversation are the priorities of life.
This region's laid-back atmosphere, safe cities, developed infrastructure, unspoiled culture, affordable cost of living, and friendly people combine to create an idyllic lifestyle.
This is a good choice for active retirees who aren't ready to sit back and rock on the front porch. You could spend your days skiing, hiking, climbing, playing golf, bird-watching, white-water rafting, kayaking, and even kite-surfing, and your evenings practicing tango.
Mendoza has a reputation as one of the most affordable places to live in Argentina, so for North Americans, it's super affordable.
You can rent a semi-furnished, two-bedroom apartment for $400 to $1,000 per month. Catch a bus for 50 cents and dine out for $25. A monthly budget of $2,000 would see you living well here.
Argentina's retirement visa is known as the Pensionado Visa. The basic requirements are that you're 65 (men) or 60 (women) and receive pension income of five times the minimum salary. This works out to around $1,400.
The initial residence permit is valid for one year, but it can be extended for up to three years. You can apply for citizenship in Argentina after just two consecutive years of residency.
Mendoza has an arid, four-season climate with average highs of 76°F and lows of 11°F. Summer in Argentina is from December to March and winter is from June to September. Santa Marta, Colombia
Santa Marta, Colombia. getty
A 90-minute flight from Colombia's capital, Bogotá, on the country's Caribbean coast, lies Santa Marta. Colombia's oldest colonial city, Santa Marta is an under-the-radar gem popular with well-heeled, in-the-know Colombians who vacation here for reasons including its affordability, great climate, soft golden sands, and warm Caribbean waters.
It's a geographically diverse spot, with the Caribbean Sea to the north and west, Tayrona National Park to the east, and Colombia's Sierra Nevada mountain range to the south.
The historical center is filled with quaint, narrow lanes, white-washed Spanish-colonial architecture, and squares lined by everything from pizza joints to burger bars to more upscale Italian and Mediterranean food.
The newer part of the city features an attractive seafront park, plenty of small cafés and bars, as well as boutique hotels, excellent seafood restaurants, and a cruise-ship port. There's also a 256-slip marina and new, tasteful condo projects all around. And, of course, golden sand beaches offering a wealth of recreation activities.
Colombia's overall standard of health care is the best in Latin America—better ranked by the World Health Organization than both Canada and the United States.
There is less English spoken in Santa Marta than in other Latin American beach destinations so you'll need to pick up some Spanish to get by here.
Colombia offers a handful of different residency options, including a retiree-specific visa (the Pensionado Visa).
The basic requirement is that you receive a pension of about $1,000 per month. This gets you residency for one to three years at a time.
Santa Marta has a tropical dry climate with average high of 91°F and lows of 75°F.
A budget of $2,000 a month will go a long way in Santa Marta. Monthly rentals start at around $400. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Retiring Abroad On A Military Pension—3 Expat Havens For U.S. Veterans By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 5 European Towns Where You Can Buy Property For Under $100,000 By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Claiming Social Security Overseas: A Quick Guide For U.S. Citizens By Kathleen Peddicord
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Forbes
5 hours ago
- Forbes
Pucci, Piazzas & Prosecco: A Toast To 25 Years Of Florence's Iconic Hotel Savoy
View from the old window on Florence Duomo Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Florence, Italy. getty Who doesn't love Florence? The beautiful Tuscan capital—with its scenic views, rich history, stunning Renaissance architecture, vast artistic treasures, and romantic ambiance—is one of the world's most beloved travel destinations. So it's no surprise that I was thrilled for my recent, long-overdue visit to La Bella Firenze. With only a few short days to soak in all the magic (and sip an Aperol Spritz or two), I chose to stay right in the heart of the city, at a hotel that as much as any other embodies the history, style, and spirit of Florence: the iconic Hotel Savoy. The entrance of the Hotel Savoy in Florence. Rocco Forte Located in the historic Piazza della Repubblica - originally the site of the Roman Forum and today a bustling hub of elegant buildings, cafes, shops, and a famous vintage carousel – the Savoy could not be any more central. The hotel faces the Column of Abundance, which marks the literal center point of the ancient city. Exit the grand front doors of this venerable hotel, and it seems that the entire city is just a short walk away, from the Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio to the Uffizi Gallery to the fashionable Via de' Tornabuoni. The Carousel at Piazza della Repubblica, Florence, Italy - and the view from our room at the Savoy Hotel, Florence, Italy. getty The history of the hotel at this site dates all the way back to 1893, and its initial christening as the Grand Hotel Savoia, which quickly became a meeting point for the Florentine aristocracy of the day. The Savoy's most recent incarnation dates back to the late 1990's, when the hotel became the second purchased by the Rocco Forte Hotels group twenty-five years ago, and opened in 2000 as arguably Florence's finest luxury hotel. Famous Uffizi gallery in Florence, Italy getty The Savoy's most significant facelift came in 2018, when Rocco Forte Director of Design Olga Polizzi – seeking to combine Florence's heritage, history, and fashion with contemporary style – joined forces with celebrated Florentine fashion house Emilio Pucci to transform the Savoy's interiors. The hotel's entrance and lobby now feature vaulted ceilings and exposed columns - marking a return to their original grandeur – and Polizzi's white palette is the canvas for Pucci's colorful accents and design elements, including paintings by Italian artist Luca Pignatelli. During my visit, the lobby also featured the British artist Tracy Emin's neon installation 'My Forgotten Heart' in partnership with the nearby Palazzo Strozzi, where her work was on exhibition. Olga Polizzi with the daughter of Florentine fashion designer Emilio Pucci, who is a design partner of Hotel Savoy. Rocco Forte The lobby at the Hotel Savoy is adorned with Pucci fabric and rug. Rocco Forte hotel The remodel also revamped the Savoy's rooms, reducing the room count from 102 to 79 to allow for more spacious and luxurious accommodations. The rooms are elegant, sophisticated, comfortable – and unmistakably Italian. They are also well-stocked with modern features and amenities, including Nespresso coffee machines and Smeg tea kettles. The bathrooms are Italian white marble, with exclusive Irene Forte Skincare toiletries (keeping it a family affair), and – at least in our Deluxe Suite – a powerful rain shower that would make the Amazon jealous. But my favorite part of the room was what was just outside - the gorgeous view over the lovely Piazza. A suite at the Hotel Savoy in Florence. Rocco Forte The bedroom of a suite at the Hotel Savoy in Florence. Rocco Forte This year marks another important milestone in the life of the Savoy – the hotel's 25th anniversary as a Rocco Forte Hotel – and to celebrate, the hotel has unveiled two reimagined spaces, each paying homage to notable Italian women. The city of Florence is inextricably tied to its history and its art, and the Hotel Savoy pays homage to both in honoring these women. Chef Fulvio Pierangelini Rocco Forte The first is the hotel's signature restaurant, Irene, described as a 'love letter to Tuscany,' and named after Lady Irene Forte, the mother of the hotel group's Chairman. Chef Fulvio Pierangelini serves traditional Tuscan cuisine in a refined and intimate dining room, featuring walnut paneling, black and white marble floors, and fabrics by none other than Loro Piana, all under classic Venetian chandeliers. Irene also extends outdoors on to a lovely terrace along the front sidewalk of the hotel. My (very long) breakfast on the terrace on a beautiful, sunny late spring day, watching the colorful characters of Florence go by on the bustling Piazza, was truly one of the highlights of my visit to the city. Breakfast at the Hotel Savoy's restaurant, Irene. Rocco Forte The restaurant Irene at the Hotel Savoy. Rocco Forte hotels Irene Restaurant at the Hotel Savoy in Florence. Rocco Forte Just off the lobby, adjacent to the restaurant, is the newly unveiled Bar Artemisia. Named in honor of Baroque artist Artemisia Gentileschi - the first woman admitted to the Accademia del Disegno – and inspired by her creative spirit, the bar's interior features wallpaper with fresco imagery, dramatic lighting, and a bar counter crafted from the same rich wood as the Savoy's entrance doorway. The drink menu - created by Salvatore Calabrese and Federico Pavan, Head of Mixology at Rocco Forte – is a work of art in itself, featuring unique and inventive elements such as truffle, Chianti wine, and leather. Mixologist creates a unique drink with the local Chianti as the main ingredient. Rocco Forte Living up to its reputation as a haven for the arts, the Savoy goes a step further in celebrating Artemesia, offering an immersive experience titled, From Baroque Icon to Contemporary Muse: In the Footsteps of Artemisia . The itinerary begins at Casa Buonarroti, a hidden Florentine treasure that was once the home of Michelangelo's family, where guests will encounter Artemisia's "Allegory of Inclination," a rare early masterpiece, and delve into her intellectual and artistic flourishing in Florence. After diving into Artemisia's mature works at the Palatine Gallery in Palazzo Pitti, the tour culminates at the Savoy with a curated experience at Bar Artemisia. Florence, Palazzo Pitti, Palatine Gallery. View of the Iliad Room. getty Bar Artemisia at the Hotel Savoy in Florence. Rocco Forte The Savoy has also just announced yet another exclusive experience, partnering with luxury jewelry house Cassetti to create 'Golden Hour on the Arno. ' A celebration of a different kind of artistry, this itinerary begins with a walk through central Florence to the Cassetti workshop located on the iconic Ponte Vechio. There, participants will have access to the designer's private archive of unique vintage pieces. Guests are then escorted to the banks of the Arno for a sunset cruise on a private boat, complete with violinist and Italian aperitivos. The evening concludes, of course, at the Savoy, with a late dinner at Irene. Golden Hour on the Arno. 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The charming SandwiChic in Florence often has lines around the corner to order their unique sandwiches. Erica Wertheim Zohar For dinner, one of my new favorite restaurants in Florence is Trattoria Sostanza. First opened in 1869 on a quiet Florence side street, and still operated by the same family, reservations (made well in advance) are a must at this no-frills spot with only seven small shared tables. Dinner becomes a communal experience with a curated, limited menu — but once you try the signature butter chicken they're known for, it's all worth it. The grandson of the original owners of Trattoria Sostanza still runs this family restaurant in Florence. Erica Wertheim Zohar
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Yahoo
Hotels.com discount codes for August 2025 – how to save 10% or more
Whether you're looking for a summer city break, a European beach getaway or a Thailand backpacking adventure, has plenty of options to get excited about. With everything from stately castles to sleek high rises and boutique boltholes, our team of deal experts is pulling back the covers on how to stay in your dream hotel for less. Here are all the best ways to save money on your booking. The best ways to save at Apply a discount code You can almost always save 10 per cent or more on your booking by applying a promo code. To apply the code that we've listed above, continue to the booking confirmation screen, where you'll see an 'Apply a coupon code' field under the hotel summary section. Paste in your code and apply to see your booking cost reduce. Sign up for a one key membership One key is a free loyalty program, available for UK and US customers, where you work your way up the tiers for more benefits. All members start with a blue tier membership, moving up to silver, gold and platinum, unlocking more perks with each level. Here's a breakdown of what you get: Blue: Save 10 per cent or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide Silver: Get 15 per cent or more off member pricing for 10,000+ hotels, plus three per cent one key cash (aka rewards points) towards future stays and hotel food or drink perks. Gold: Save 20 per cent or more thousands of hotels, plus room upgrade and four per cent one key cash and hotel food or drink perks. Platinum: All of the as above, plus six per cent one key cash and VIP customer support. You earn one key cash on eligible bookings, which starts at two per cent and increases with each tier. These accumulated rewards points can be used towards future hotel or car hire booking. As well as the one key membership can be used on partner sites Expedia and Vrbo, meaning more opportunities to build up your perks and discounts. You will automatically build up your one key cash pot in your account after completing eligible trips and your balance won't expire, as long as you make at least one eligible booking within an 18 months. Student and NHS discounts Students can get 10 per cent off on bookings via Unidays or Student Beans. Similarly, NHS staff and healthcare workers can also take advantage of this discount with a Health Service Discounts account. These offers can be used on top of existing member pricing or site-wide promotions. To redeem your unique code from any of these sites, simply register with a valid ID or login to your account, copy your code and apply it at checkout. Last-minute deals If you're flexible on dates or enjoy a spontaneous getaway, then you can save 20 per cent or more with last-minute hotel deals. There are plenty of reduced rates on offer, including weekend breaks in cities such as London and Paris from £200 per night. You can even book rooms on the same day, which are sometimes cheaper than normal as its the hotel's last chance to fill the room. Save with sales doesn't have a dedicated sale page, however you can expect flash sales and limited time promotions during seasonal events and key sales period, such as Black Friday, Boxing Day, Valentine's Day and in the run-up to summer. Use Tesco clubcard vouchers Tesco Clubcard members can double their voucher value, starting from £5, and use it towards any booking. For example, £10 worth of Clubcard vouchers is converted to £20 in credit. To redeem, simply login to your Tesco Clubcard account in the app or online, exchange the voucher for a code and then paste it into the coupon field at checkout. If you have any issues, try booking via the dedicated link via the Tesco Clubcard page. Group discounts offers up to 70 per cent off for group bookings of nine rooms or more. 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Mobile app vs website bookings It's worth downloading the app to take advantage of app-exclusive deals and lower rates. You can also set up push notifications and alerts for sales or price drops, and easily manage your booking in just a few clicks. Price match promise You can book with peace of mind that you're always getting the best deal, thanks to the price promise. This means that if you find the same room cheaper elsewhere, even after booking, you'll be refunded the difference. Just make sure to submit your claim before 11:59pm the day before check‑in. Other important details include: The cheaper rate must be for the same hotel, room type, dates, cancellation policy and currency. You can't claim on stays booked via other platforms' promotions (such as package deals, discount codes or membership pricing) The price promise is only applicable to refundable bookings. 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Forbes
9 hours ago
- Forbes
Where You Can Live In Europe For $2K A Month (Or Less!)
A life on the beach in Europe is more affordable than you think... getty Think the only places to live on a shoestring budget are in Asia or Latin America? Think again. You can absolutely live in Europe for $2k a month—and in many places, you'll live not just a comfortable life, but maybe even a richer one than you live now. Whether you're a retiree living on Social Security, a digital nomad, or an expat, there are more options than ever to enjoy the European dream without draining your bank account. While big, capital cities or tourist-heavy hotspots can easily eat up your Social Security check—and then some—that's not always the case. Head farther east across the Continent or explore less well-known regions of Western and Southern Europe, and the good life can be fully accessible to those working with a smaller budget. Central and Eastern Europe offer some of the best quality-of-life-to-cost ratios on the continent. With reliable infrastructure, comprehensive public transportation networks, low crime rates, and affordable, high-quality health care the lesser-visited countries of Europe are just as well appointed as the traditional favorites. Plus, you can get EU residency in these countries, meaning all of Europe is at your fingertips. In Western Europe, little villages and rural regions—even in Portugal, Italy, Spain, and France—still offer an enviable lifestyle at prices that don't break the bank. And if you're willing to throw yourself into learning a new language you'll find the local corners that will slash your monthly bills. Dreaming of warm breezes through your window...? Morning strolls by the sea...? Historic, cobblestone towns centers...? Sipping wine, enjoying the view from your balcony...? Don't let budget concerns dictate your thinking. There are options for the good life in Europe on a tight budget. Here's where to live well in Europe for $2k a month or less, without sacrificing comfort or charm. Budapest, Hungary: Beauty On A Budget Cost Range: $1,200 to $1,800 per month $1,200 to $1,800 per month Why: Stylish city life at lower costs, excellent public transit Stylish city life at lower costs, excellent public transit Best For: Central Europe access, urban culture, expat professionals Budapest is probably Europe's best-value capital city, delivering the culture, and infrastructure of the best of Western Europe at a fraction of the cost. When you consider the quality of life, cosmopolitan feel, art, cafe culture, public transport system, and affordable housing, Budapest could easily be called the best bang-for-your-buck capital in Europe. Even in central neighborhoods like District VI or VII, you'll find small apartments for under $800. Even including utilities, groceries, health insurance, and entertainment, singles or couples can live well for under $1,800. Plus, Budapest is safe, mostly flat (therefore easily walkable or bikeable), and has a metro system that rivals the best in the world. A cultural powerhouse, boasting museums, opera, galleries, and all the rest of the entertainment that you'd expect from a first-class city—Budapest is fully on par with any other big city in Europe. But it's also got a vibe all its own, with thermal baths and ruin pubs being unique to the city, as well as coffeehouses, music venues, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene that brings visitors from around the Continent. Budapest is an open-air museum, with stunning architecture that rivals that of Paris. Digital nomads love the fast Wi-Fi and co-working spaces, and retirees appreciate the affordable, high-quality health care and slow pace outside the tourist core. Although learning Hungarian would be a challenge, English is widely spoken, especially among younger locals. Plus, Hungary offers a low-cost residency pathway through long-stay visas for retirees or freelancers. Budapest is arguably the best "big city" in Europe live for under $2k a month—you get cosmopolitan living, great food, historic charm, and solid infrastructure, all without the price tag of Paris, Lisbon, or Barcelona. Greece: Affordable Aegean Cost Range: $1,000 to $1,700 per month $1,000 to $1,700 per month Why: Inexpensive housing, especially outside Athens or Santorini Inexpensive housing, especially outside Athens or Santorini Best For: Retirees, island lovers, history buffs Greece may be best known for its whitewashed islands and legendary ruins, but it's also one of the best-kept secrets for affordable living in the EU. Outside of over-saturated tourist favorites, like Santorini or Mykonos, you'll find that life on a Greek island (or the mainland) is easily affordable. Apartments or cottages—even those with sea views—typically rent for less than $800 a month. Do your homework and you could find a gem for $400. Greece is the quintessential Mediterranean vibe: year-round warm, sunny climate, relaxed pace of life, with stunning beaches, dreamy islands, and even mountain regions. The waters here are clear blue and warm year-round. Greek culture is heavily social, and locals are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their home with newcomers. It's not hard to find community here, whether local or expat. Life in a village, for example, revolves around the local taverna (restaurant), where people will sit for hours in the evenings, chatting with family and friends. The morning coffee ritual is likewise an institution that will help you integrate into your new home. There's also a growing infrastructure for remote workers, particularly in cities like Thessaloniki or on islands like Crete. Internet access is good, produce is cheap, and life is outdoorsy and healthy. Plus, the Mediterranean Diet, full of olive oil, seafood, fresh vegetables, and whole grains is proven to reduce health risks and promote weight loss. The country offers tax incentives to attract foreign pensioners and professionals, making it an increasingly viable long-term base for expats seeking a relaxed, low-cost European lifestyle. From cozy island homes to historic inland villages, Greece offers some of the best places to live in Europe for under $2,000 a month. Cyprus: Mediterranean Without The Markup Cost Range: $1,200 to $1,800 per month $1,200 to $1,800 per month Why: Low taxes, Mediterranean lifestyle, English widely spoken Low taxes, Mediterranean lifestyle, English widely spoken Best For: Retirees, digital nomads, sun lovers If you want to live beachfront on a budget, one of the best places to do so is in Cyprus, where you can easily you want to live for $2k a month or less. Although it's somewhat unknown to Americans, British and other Europeans have been coming to enjoy Cyprus' shores for over a century. The island has modern infrastructure, tax perks, and year-round sun—at a fraction of the cost of other Mediterranean destinations. A member of the EU with strong ties to the UK, Cyprus is one of the few countries where English is an official language—another reason it's one of the top choices in Europe for Americans. Even in the big cities like Larnaca, Paphos, or Limassol, rents for one-bed apartments typically range from $500 to $800, with plenty of options near the coast. The cost of utilities and groceries here are lower than in most of Western Europe—and without the need for heating, you can save quite a bit if you're able to minimize air conditioning. Health care is both affordable and high quality. Here, a slow-paced island lifestyle reigns supreme, and there's a strong café culture and vibrant food scene. The island is safe and family-friendly, and absolutely teeming with history. From Roman ruins to Byzantine monasteries, you won't want for sightseeing here. Retirees—of which there are many British already living here—appreciate the year-round summer, laid-back pace, tax benefits, and access to EU health care. Digital nomads enjoy co-working spaces, beach cafés, and an affordable-yet-developed lifestyle with 300+ days of sunshine a year. And despite being the ultimate beach destination, with some of the best scuba diving in the Med, Cyprus also offers hiking in the Troodos Mountains—even skiing in winter. Overall, Cyprus offers a blend of modern living and Mediterranean charm. It's especially appealing to expats who want the sea, the sun, and the comforts of Europe—without paying Western Europe prices. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Retiring Abroad On A Military Pension—3 Expat Havens For U.S. Veterans By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 7 Countries In Europe It's Easy To Retire To By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 4 European Countries With Lower Taxes For Expat Retirees By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 3 Overseas Havens Where Retirees Can Live Rich On Social Security By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Claiming Social Security Overseas: A Quick Guide For U.S. Citizens By Kathleen Peddicord
