Finding an affordable and relaxing place to retire can be a challenge. Many of the traditional spots, such as Florida or the Caribbean, are pricey and too focused on tourism to offer retirees the peace and quiet they?ve finally earned. Retiring in Argentina can actually be a great alternative for a number of reasons.

The Affordability Factor

When you retire in Argentina, you do not need to be a millionaire to have a comfortable life. In the country, most people earn and live on considerably less than what the average person in the United States would earn. Physicians, for example, earn about $1,000 USD a month. That might put your budget for retiring in Argentina in perspective.

The reason for the lower salaries is the very low cost of living. Consider that the average cost of a meal is $4 USD. Subway transportation costs about a quarter with taxi rides costing just a couple of dollars.

Depending on the income you have and its source, you should easily be able to qualify for either a financier or pensioner visa. The only requirement is that you prove your income will continue after you relocate to the country.

Proximity to Other Countries

Like Europeans who can easily travel from one country to another during holidays, you can do the same thing if you are retiring in Argentina. The country is bordered by Brazil, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Even beyond these countries, seeing most of South America would be fairly easy from a location in the midst of Argentina.

Language Issues

One of the concerns many who want to retire in Argentina have is the language barrier. In Argentina, the official language is Spanish but most of the inhabitants of the country are capable of understanding Portuguese and Italian since the languages are similar to the dominant dialect of the region. Many of the people you encounter will also speak at least some English because this is a subject taught in many of the schools.

Overall, Spanish is one of the easiest languages to learn. Many of the words are similar to the ones in English which makes things simpler. However, if you are planning on retiring in Argentina, learning the language is a good idea so you can feel more comfortable interacting with the people and doing business.

Argentina Home Options

Another great reason to retire in Argentina is because you have a wide range of choices in your living possibilities. If you are a retiree who is looking for a secluded, private getaway, you can find private ranches enveloped in the expanses of the country?s beautiful landscape. Many of these are available for purchase or rental at very affordable rates. If you want a view of the Atlantic Ocean, head to the southern coast for great properties. Be prepared to pay more though if you want an ocean view, although the cost will be a fraction of what you would pay in other countries.

For retirees who don?t want to give up the excitement and cultural activities found in a major city, relocating to Buenos Aires ? the capital of the country ? is a good choice. Apartments in the heart of the city are fairly affordable for foreign residents but they can be difficult to come by so start searching early.

Activities for Retirees in Argentina

Although most people want to retire to Argentina in order to relax, most want to fill their days with fun activities as well. Argentina is home to some of the best sports fishing and golf courses in South America. You?ll find ski resorts, wineries, national parks, and dozens of museums nestled throughout the country. If you?ve always dreamed of being an amateur palaeontologist, then deciding to retire in Argentina may be a smart decision. Palaeontology activity is pervasive here and the country has been home to some major discoveries in recent years, including the Giganotosaurus.

Enjoying the Carnival

If you?ve always wanted to experience the Carnival for yourself, retiring in Argentina will give you a great opportunity to do just that. While you won?t be far from Brazil and the most famous Carnival in South America, Argentina is home to its own huge celebration in Gualeguaych? which is about three hours from Buenos Aires by bus.