Part 2…Pros and cons of the top ten most affordable countries for retirement living and travel…

In our travels, we often try to stay close to water, such as the Seine River, which is within walking distance from our hotel. In London, we’ll be within walking distance of the Thames River.

Here is the continuation from yesterday’s Part 1.

6. Bulgaria

Pros:

  • Low cost of living with affordable housing and utilities.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and historic sites.
  • EU membership offers stability and ease of travel within Europe.
  • Friendly locals and a growing expat community.

Cons:

  • Bureaucracy can be slow and frustrating.
  • Harsh winters in some regions.
  • Limited job opportunities outside major cities.

7. Indonesia

Pros:

  • Very low cost of living, particularly in Bali and Yogyakarta.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and jungles.
  • Warm and welcoming local culture.
  • Strong digital nomad and expat communities.

Cons:

  • Infrastructure can be underdeveloped in rural areas.
  • Traffic congestion and pollution in major cities.
  • Language barrier outside tourist areas.

8. Turkey

Pros:

  • Affordable cost of living with cheap rent and food.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historic sites and diverse landscapes.
  • Strategic location between Europe and Asia.
  • Warm hospitality and vibrant local markets.

Cons:

  • Economic instability and inflation concerns.
  • Language barrier, especially in rural areas.
  • Political situation can be uncertain.

9. Philippines

Pros:

  • Low cost of living with affordable housing and food.
  • Warm climate and stunning beaches and islands.
  • English is widely spoken, making communication easier.
  • Friendly and hospitable local population.

Cons:

  • Infrastructure can be underdeveloped in some regions.
  • Natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
  • Healthcare can be limited outside major cities.

10. Georgia

Pros:

  • Very low cost of living with affordable housing and utilities.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes, from mountains to beaches.
  • Simplified visa regulations and ease of residency for foreigners.
  • Warm and welcoming local culture.

Cons:

  • Limited job opportunities outside tourism and expat services.
  • Language barrier, as Georgian is not widely spoken outside the country.
  • Healthcare can be limited outside major cities.

These countries offer a mix of affordability, cultural richness, and lifestyle options, making them attractive for expats, digital nomads, and budget-conscious travelers. The pros and cons highlight living in these locations’ potential challenges and benefits.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 15, 2014:

As the proverbial food voyeur, I’ve always reveled in looking at pastries, especially in Paris. For more photos, please click here.