These Are the Cheapest European Destinations for Retirees

Planning your retirement travels through Europe can be as exciting as it is budget-friendly. Imagine wandering through ancient cities, savoring local cuisines, and soaking in breathtaking landscapes—all without worrying about your finances. Here’s a comprehensive guide to 12 European destinations that promise adventure and tranquility without stretching your budget.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is like a postcard come to life, with its vibrant history and dedication to green living. It’s incredibly affordable, letting you enjoy its charm for $45 to $54 a day. Safety is a top priority here, making it a worry-free choice for solo travelers or couples. The city is compact and easy to explore, offering a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. You’ll feel right at home among its welcoming locals and serene landscapes.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon strikes a perfect balance between traditional charm and modern convenience. For around $143 a day, you can delve into its rich history, dine on delicious seafood, and ride the iconic trams. It’s known for being incredibly safe, so you can wander through its picturesque streets with peace of mind. The city’s hilltop vistas and historic neighborhoods are a treat for the eyes and the soul. Plus, Lisbon’s mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is an underrated gem with a lively arts scene, fascinating museums, and delicious culinary offerings. Spending just $86 a day, you can explore everything from historic cemeteries to vibrant marketplaces. It’s a city where history meets modernity, offering unique experiences at every turn. Zagreb’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to mingle with locals and discover hidden gems. And its safety and affordability are perfect for retirees looking to explore without stress.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn feels like stepping into a fairy tale with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. You can enjoy this enchanting city for $44 to $56 a day, including cozy stays and tasty meals. It’s packed with history, from ancient cathedrals to imposing castles, all easily explored on foot. Tallinn is not just about the past; its lively cafes and shops offer a taste of modern Estonian culture. Safety and affordability make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul offers an incredible blend of cultures, history, and flavors for just $47 a day. Its skyline of mosques and bazaars is as captivating as its history is rich. You’ll find endless free attractions and affordable sightseeing options here. From sipping Turkish tea by the Bosphorus to exploring ancient palaces, every day is an adventure. Plus, Istanbul’s warmth and hospitality make it a safe and welcoming destination for retirees.

Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is a fairy tale setting with its alpine scenery and charming villages, all for about $166 a day. It’s the safest region in Germany, offering peace of mind along with its natural beauty. Here, you can enjoy hearty German cuisine, explore castles, or simply relax in the lush countryside. Despite being a sought-after destination, Bavaria manages to be both affordable and less crowded. It’s a peaceful retreat that combines culture, history, and nature perfectly.

Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia, and particularly Málaga, is your go-to for soaking in Spain’s beauty without the hefty price tag of around $138 a day. It’s relaxed, safe, and bursting with Spanish culture, from flamenco to tapas. The Mediterranean climate here is just perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Málaga’s historical sites and modern amenities offer the best of both worlds. Andalusia proves you don’t have to compromise on experience to stick to a budget.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor’s stunning bay and historic architecture make it a breathtaking yet affordable destination at $108 a day. It’s a safe haven for retirees, offering serene views and a slow-paced lifestyle. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of cobbled streets and squares worth exploring. Kotor is not just about its scenic beauty; its vibrant culture and friendly locals add to its charm. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Palermo, Sicily

Palermo is a delightful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, all for about $101 a day. It’s safer and more affordable than many other Italian cities, offering a unique Sicilian experience. From bustling markets to stunning cathedrals, there’s always something to explore. The city’s rich history is matched by its vibrant street life and delicious food. Palermo is an ideal choice for retirees looking for an authentic Italian experience without the crowds.

The Peloponnese, Greece

The Peloponnese offers a tranquil and affordable Greek getaway, with daily costs of around $122 in places like Nafplio. It’s far from the hustle and bustle of Athens, offering safety and relaxation amidst ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes. The region’s laid-back vibe is perfect for retirees wanting to soak in the Mediterranean sun. Here, history and nature blend seamlessly, offering endless exploration opportunities. The Peloponnese exemplifies the beauty and serenity of rural Greece.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Klagenfurt combines medieval charm with natural beauty, all for about $143 a day. It’s a safe, picturesque city ideal for those who love history and the outdoors. The city is nestled by a lake, offering stunning views and leisurely activities. Klagenfurt’s vibrant cultural scene and friendly locals make it an inviting destination. It’s a place where you can enjoy the best of Austrian hospitality without the crowds of Vienna.

Riga, Latvia

Riga is a cultural haven, rich in history and arts, and surprisingly affordable, with plenty of free or cheap activities. For retirees, it’s a safe and lively city to explore, offering everything from music to museums. The cost of living is low, allowing you to enjoy fine dining and local experiences on a budget. Riga’s blend of architectural styles and vibrant street life captivates all who visit. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to experience the Baltics’ rich culture and history.

These Are the Most Pet-Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas

If you’re thinking about hitting up Vegas but don’t want to leave your furry buddy behind, you’re in luck. Believe it or not, Vegas is turning into a pretty cool spot for pets. These days, hotels are going all out, not just for us humans but for our pets, too. We’re talking comfy beds, gourmet treats, and even spa services for your four-legged pals. Here are the most pet-friendly hotels in Las Vegas.

1. Bellagio Las Vegas

The Bellagio is the cream of the crop, not just for us but for our pets, too. They roll out the red carpet with plush pet beds and bowls right in your room. Imagine walking your dog past those famous fountains! They’ve got specific spots for pet relief, so no worries about late-night or early-morning strolls. It’s pure luxury for your pet, in true Bellagio style.

2. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

Westgate is super welcoming to our four-legged friends. They offer rooms that cater to your and your pet’s comfort, which is a win-win. If you need to find a vet or a grooming spot, they’ve got all the info at the ready. Plus, they’re big on ensuring you know the best walking routes. It’s like having a pet concierge at your service.

3. Park MGM Las Vegas

Park MGM nails it with pet-friendly packages. They’re all about ensuring your pet feels as welcome as you do. The location is perfect for sniffing around the Strip together. Their rooms are set up with pets in mind, so it feels like a home away from home. And let’s not forget the designated areas for when nature calls – super convenient.

4. Luxor Hotel & Casino

The Luxor is another great pick, with its iconic pyramid shape offering a unique backdrop for your pet’s vacation snaps. They’re all about pet comfort, offering rooms that cater specifically to furry guests. There’s easy access to outdoor areas for walks, which is always a plus. It’s a mix of ancient Egyptian charm with modern-day pet hospitality. Plus, your pet can brag about staying in a pyramid – how cool is that?

5. Golden Nugget Hotel

Golden Nugget really shines when it comes to pet-friendly stays. They offer awesome amenities and have a super welcoming atmosphere for pets. Whether it’s a small pup or a bigger buddy, they’re all welcome here. The rooms are cozy and perfect after a day of exploring Vegas together. It’s like hitting the jackpot for pet accommodation.

6. New York – New York Hotel & Casino

Bringing a slice of the Big Apple to Vegas, New York – New York is all about fun for you and your pet. They have pet-friendly rooms that ensure a comfortable stay for your furry friend. The vibe here is energetic, perfect for pets that love a little adventure. Plus, there are plenty of spots nearby for walks and sniffing around. It’s a little taste of New York life right in the heart of Vegas.

7. Trump International Hotel Las Vegas

Trump International adds a touch of luxury to your pet’s stay. They offer some pretty fancy pet amenities, making your buddy feel like a VIP. They know how to pamper pets, from gourmet treats to cozy sleeping setups. The service is top-notch, ensuring your pet’s needs are always met. It’s luxury living for pets with a Vegas twist.

8. Caesars Palace

Caesars Palace isn’t just legendary for its human guests. They roll out the royal treatment for pets, with special rooms and amenities. Your pet can live it up in style, enjoying the best Caesars offers. They ensure your pet feels right at home amidst all that luxury. It’s a stay-fit for a furry emperor or empress.

9. Vdara Hotel & Spa

Vdara offers a serene escape, perfect for pets (and owners) who prefer a quieter stay. They specialize in spa treatments for pets, which sounds pretty amazing. The environment is calm and relaxing, ideal for unwinding together. They make sure both you and your pet feel rejuvenated. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Strip.

10. NoMad Las Vegas

NoMad brings a boutique experience to the table, or should we say, to the pet bed. They’re all about creating a personalized stay with unique touches for your pet. The intimate service makes you and your furry friend feel truly special. It’s cozy, chic, and just what you need for a memorable stay. It’s like a home away from home but with that Vegas flair.

So, when planning your Vegas trip, these hotels ensure your pet is having as much fun as you are. Each place brings something special to the table, providing your furry friend’s tail keeps wagging throughout your stay. Vegas is ready to welcome you both with open arms – and plenty of treats!

Making a Career and Life of Travel

Making a Career and Life of Travel

People have always asked why I felt such a strong urge to travel. The truth is that I caught the travel bug when I was only a teenager. I knew I wanted to find a way to build a career and a life of travel. While I tried to ignore it and choose a stable career path, I was never happy or fulfilled. If you are facing a similar dilemma, here’s how I found a compromise between my head and my heart that didn’t leave my bank accounts empty.

Making All the “Right” Choices

I come from a lower-middle-class working family. My parents worked hard to provide for us. And, they believed that a college education was the key to a bright future. Although this was true for me, they didn’t realize that it would open up more than a successful career path. College presented me with a whole new world of opportunities and reignited my desire to travel.

When I shared my excitement to study abroad, they would dampen my enthusiasm. With the best of intentions, they would try to direct me toward careers with better job prospects and salaries. However, I was stubborn. And, I had big dreams of exploring the world and experiencing other cultures. Yet enough of their concerns over the cost of travel helped convinced me that I needed to be more “realistic” with my plans.

As a compromise, I pursued dual degrees in history and education. I thought I could be happy teaching what I love and enjoy greater job security. But by the final semester of my senior year, I knew it was a mistake. I went to my advisor to share my sudden change of heart, and it led to one of the most honest conversations I have ever had about what I wanted for my future. It opened my eyes to the fact that I didn’t need to settle for a life I didn’t want. But most importantly, it showed me that there are several lucrative ways to build a career and life of travel

Looking for a Better Way

That day forever changed the course of my life. I realized that I didn’t need to define myself by other people’s standards of success. I also understood that it was possible to have the lifestyle I wanted and still find a way to support myself.

So, my next step was a big one that led me to study abroad. After graduation, I started a post-graduate degree in another country and pursued a degree in anthropology. This took me out of the work culture of corporate America and exposed me to an entirely different worldview. There were all types of new job opportunities. And since I was already familiar with the student visa process, it was a relatively easy transition into a professional career abroad.

When I finished my degree, I realized the only path to career advancement in my concentration was through academia. Although I have a passion for education, the world of academia is highly competitive, even cutthroat at times, and that’s just not me. Plus, I didn’t want to spend my life applying for grants and being under the thumb of benefactors.

However, anthropology is a broad field. And I met other people who showed me better ways to build a career and life around travel.

3 Ways to Support a Career and Life of Travel

After living abroad for more than 10 years, here are three ways that I have successfully found employment and supported myself overseas.

1. Pursue higher education.

Even though my parents and I had different expectations of my college education, it was an important step in my career path. And it led me to where I am now. Choosing to study abroad and pursue higher education opened doors that I never knew existed. And no matter how you look at it, I earned a master’s degree which has helped my job prospects.

But being in-country gave me the chance to network and get hands-on experience that would have been impossible back home. I also discovered that many several professional internships with multinational organizations can help you get your foot in the door. With the right training, credentials, and contacts, you can land a great job and build a very satisfying life as an ex-pat.

2. Look for online opportunities.

Although I left academia behind, I wasn’t ready to give up on my dreams. So, I used my skills and went online to look for new employment options. I soon learned that tons of online opportunities will allow you to work from anywhere. And, there are even more remote gigs post-Covid.

During my travels, I’ve worked as a freelance writer, copy editor, transcriptionist, translator, and tutor through several online platforms. However, there is also a huge demand for graphic and web designers and many other digital skill sets. If you have marketable skills that only require a computer and internet access, you can live comfortably as a digital nomad.

3. Find a position teaching ESL.

As ironic as it seems, my professional journey overseas ended right back where I started. For the majority of my years abroad, I settled into a teaching career. Native English speakers are in high demand as other countries want to become more competitive in the American and international markets. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree, many schools and companies are willing to compensate you well for your services.

I spent 8 years teaching ESL because it provided a great salary, benefits, travel allowances, and housing. And, I had nearly two months off every year to travel. By the end of it, I had earned enough to pay off all my debts, fund my travels, and save enough to start investing. It was one of the most financially and personally rewarding experiences I’ve had.

Those who are interested should look at one of the many online forums where you can browse offers to live and teach abroad. If the idea of being bound to one place doesn’t appeal to you though, you now have the option to teach online which will allow you even greater freedom of movement.

Final Thoughts

When the end finally comes, many people regret not traveling more or settling for a life they didn’t want. However, I don’t want to be counted among them. So, I have actively sought out a different path.

Although I did it while I was young and unattached, I have seen people at every stage of life successfully build a career and life of travel. Whether you are moving out for the first time, traveling with children, or retiring abroad, it is possible. However, if you want it, then you have to go out and make it happen.

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