These are the best places to retire in the world from Europe to South America.

Here are 12 of the best places to retire in the world.

Thecost of livingcan fit most budgets, depending on the location and style of housing.

A row of colorful houses and palm trees in the Dominican Republic

Credit: Getty Images

Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Portugal has become one of themost popular retirement destinationsin recent years.

Mild weather, gorgeous scenery, and welcoming citizens are a few of the reasons.

Housing and the generalcost of livingare reasonable, with variations depending on the city.

Looking down at a Main Street in Casco Viejo, Panama

John Piekos/Getty Images

Porto is slightly less expensive than Lisbon.

For others, health care is generally covered by private insurance.

Another bonus is the health care system everyone, including expats, can access affordable, high-quality medical care.

View of Dom Luis Bridge and patios by the water

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Just two hours from Miami, its location is another advantage for some retirees.

Certain areas are not considered safe, so it is advisable toresearch in advance of relocating.

The country’shighly ratedhealth care system includes public health care for citizens and residents who contribute to social security.

Busy avenue in The DR

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Most expats opt for private health care covered by insurance.

Several types of visas are available, but most retirees from outside European Union countries choose the residence visa.

Grocery stores and restaurants serving Spain’s traditional cuisine are generally reasonable.

White buildings of Frigiliana at sunset

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Costs vary as widely as environments, but, in general, the cost of living inCosta Ricais reasonable.

Those funds must be transferred to a Costa Rican bank to be withdrawn for expenses.

Health care is available through public and private systems.

Aerial view of punta uva, Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Getty Images

English is widely spoken; Malta was once part of the British Empire.

Groceries and restaurant dining are reasonably priced.

Private health care is recommended as expats do not have access to national health insurance.

Modern complex of apartment buildings, Sliema , Malta

Getty Images

Its low cost of living attracts retirees, especially those who enjoy adventure and appreciate nature.

Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its currency, and many people in the major cities speak English.

All citizens and visitors are guaranteed health care.

Tourists walking at sunset in front of the San Francisco church located in the historic center of Quito

Alejo Miranda B./Getty Images

The quality of services is high and costs are about 25 percent lower.

Bank account requirements are about $45,000 and $180,000, respectively.

Thailand offerslong-term visasfor people over 50.

Horse carriage in front of the San Antonio de Padua Monastery with people riding bicycles

Getty Images

Applicants must meet a few requirements, including having 800,000 baht (about $23,100) in savings.

Visas must be renewed annually but the process is straightforward.

Thailand boasts excellent private and public hospitals and English-speaking doctors and nurses.

Famous temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Lauren DeCicca/Travel + Leisure

Colombia has increasingly become a popular tourist destination, and many retirees have discovered its attractions.

Costs vary among cities and inland communities, and a variety of housing is available.

Colombia’s health care system features modern public and private hospitals, with high-quality, affordable care.

Front view to pizzeria café Basilica in a popular touristic district Getsemani of Cartagena, Colombia

Yuki Mao/Getty Images

Private insurance is also available.

Several visa categories include thepensionadovisa, most commonly used by retirees.

Income can come from pensions, social security, or savings.

View along Ocean Drive along South Beach Miami in the historic Art Deco District with hotels, restaurant, people and classic car visible.

Getty Images

After five years, retirees can apply for a resident visa.

Throughout the United States,golf destinations, ski resort cities, andsmall townsare all desirable options for retirees.