Overseas retirement is a consideration for many retirees due to generally lower costs of living and exciting cultural explorations. For military veterans, retiring abroad is even more advantageous.
Veterans usually have guaranteed pensions on top of Social Security benefits, which make a retired vet relatively wealthier than other Americans, and extraordinarily wealthier compared to citizens of developing countries,
according to the Military Wallet.
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The retirement location is important for veterans. Here are the top four places to consider:
1. Philippines
Already a popular ex-pat retirement destination, the Philippines has a large veteran community.
Veteran Journal reported the Philippines has an estimated 2,000 ex-Air Force members alone, making it the most popular place for veteran retirees.
Aside from its scenic landscape and low cost of living, the Philippines is the only foreign country where the Veterans Administration operates a standalone ambulatory care facility, according
to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
2. Panama
Panama is a common destination for retirees. Its proximity to America, cleanliness, and first-world amenities are all benefits for veterans and regular retirees alike. Furthermore, Panama offers outstanding retirement benefits.
Combined with the benefits, the use of U.S. dollars, and the use of English language, Panama is a top location.
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3. Thailand
Thailand is another largely veteran retiree location, according to Veteran Journal. The country is increasingly becoming known for its medical tourism and as such offers great health-care options,
the Huffington Post said.
It has everything from rural countryside to bustling cities to warm, extended coastlines.
4. Malaysia
Ranked as the fourth best retirement location for 2015 by
International Living, Malaysia, like other Southeast Asian countries, offers inexpensive luxurious living. Filled with a large ex-pat community, as well as a naturally diverse culture, Malaysians are welcoming to retirees.
But the gem of Malaysia is its cleanliness and safety. Major cities like Kuala Lumpur are not the traditional cities of developing countries. The government’s no-tolerance policy means virtually no crime,
according to British ExPats.
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