After spending a lifetime dedicated to a career, diligently squirreling away money in a 401k, and perhaps even a savings account, the time has come to say goodbye to the 9-5 grind and enter your golden years era.

There’s no better place to do that than Portugal, which International Living named one of the best places to retire in 2024, due to a host of factors, including its amazing year-round climate.

“Since I moved here, I feel like I’m an adult at summer camp. I play tennis, go swimming, we go out to eat. But even doing the day-to-day chores like shopping, when you’re in a place that is so beautiful, it is inspiring”, a retired expat shared with International Living for its annual survey, which analyses destinations around the world to determine the best places to retire each year.

Beyond the spectacular weather, International Living stated those who immigrate to Portugal for retirement will be able to take advantage of the healthcare system, which combines public access to hospitals and care centers with private insurance for those who can afford it.

Portugal has a lower cost of living compared to other EU countries, which the publication noted can be as low as $2,494 per month for couples, depending on location and what is considered to be living comfortably. Idealista, the nation’s largest rental website revealed in May 2023, that a one-bedroom accommodation in Lisbon goes for an average of €2,005, which makes it the third most expensive city in Europe in terms of rent. However, in Porto a one-bedroom costs an average of €1,200.

Portugal is home to “great weather, stunning beaches, charming architecture, scrumptious food, a phenomenally friendly expat community, a vibrant multi-national culture, welcoming locals, and a focus on living life and spending time with friends and family”, another expat shared with International Living.