Spain still tops list of overseas retirement destinations

By MoneyhighStreet Staff. Published on June 22, 2008 This post currently has no comments.

Lloret de Mar Spain
Most people considering retiring abroad are still planning on buying property in Spain, an industry expert has claimed.

Saga spokesperson Lisa Harris explained that unusually retirement locations, such as Bulgaria, were becoming more popular for people from the UK.

Despite this, she stressed most people would still look at property in Spain when considering living abroad after retiring.

Ms Harris said: "The most popular destinations chosen by those retiring from the UK are Spain and France in that order."

The expert explained the appeal of retiring in Spain, saying that the weather and large ex-pat communities were things most potential retirees looked for.

"For those that choose to actually take the jump and retire abroad, the move is often a long-term one which clearly signifies satisfaction with the decision," Ms Harris said.

"Climate and health obviously play a large part in this and whilst many people are leaving behind lots of friends and family, communities abroad develop quickly and in most areas the locals are more than happy to give a warm welcome to new residents."

Recently, Paul Collins, property editor at the BuyAssociation, suggested that property in Spain remained popular both with retirees and those looking for holiday homes.