Your golden years deserve nothing but the best, which is why you should consider moving to a top-rated destination for retirees. 

In late 2024, International Living shared its list of the six best up-and-coming retirement destinations around the world, chosen for their more under-the-radar vibes. Because we all know Portugal makes for a great retirement spot by now, as does Mexico, and all of Florida. 

For those looking for the same spectacular warm weather, culture, and access to excellent healthcare as the more well-known spots, International Living says The Azuero Peninsula in Panama is the place to be. 

The Azuero Peninsula, located about a five-hour drive from the capital of Panama City, is a place where retirees can relax amid lush green hills, swim in azure waters, and still enjoy cultural activities like Carnival and the Thousand Polleras Festival. 

Here, “miles of rolling country roads pass through fields of corn, rice, and grazing cows, sheep, and horses,” International Living explained. “This idyllic scenery evokes memories of small-town America from 50 years ago. Proximity to the ocean, a reduced cost of living, and a slower pace of life create an excellent environment for living. The region is home to several welcoming small towns and the small cities of Las Tablas and Chitré. Dozens of uncrowded sandy beaches and world-class fishing make it possible to enjoy fresh, inexpensive tuna, snapper, amberjack, and dorado almost daily.” 

All this outdoor space means retirees can participate in all the healthy activities they desire, from hiking to biking, swimming to surfing, kayaking and diving, and more. 

“Life in the Azuero feels like paradise,” International Living says. “We enjoy the perks of living in a quaint Pacific coast fishing village, with most of the conveniences of southwest Florida just a leisurely one-hour drive away.” 

The website also noted that the cost of living is the lowest in Panama and that housing costs are “much lower” than in North America. According to Choose Panama, a three-bedroom home in towns like Chitré and Las Tablas ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, while in more rural areas like Pedasí, retirees can find beachfront properties for about $150,000. 

However, Panama isn’t the only place International Living highlighted. It also noted Spain’s northern Atlantic coast also makes for a spectacular place to retire, as does Coastal Montenegro, Northern Portugal, the Southern Zone of Costa Rica, and The Peloponnese in Greece.

See all the reasons why at internationalliving.com.