Money Matters

Tips to help college students stay away from debt

2011-10-16T05:59:00.000-07:00

Credit card companies are persistently going after the college market. They not only use mailing lists, displays around campuses, but also use gimmicks to entice students to sign up for a low average percentage rate, no annual fee, free T-shirts or water bottles.

As attractive as it may sound, there are many potential dangers that students are not aware of.

Students are quick to sign up not knowing that there is a "finance charge." This charge is for the convenience of borrowing,transaction fees and often other charges as well. For example, some card issuers charge a fee when you use the card to obtain a cash advance, when you fail to make a payment on time, or when you go over your credit limit.

Some charge a flat monthly fee whether you use the card or not. Once you've signed up, that low introductory interest rate may increase to a much higher rate, even as high as 20%.

Students who are only able to make the minimum payment each month, covering only interest charges, may never be able to get out of debt. Some students feel building a credit history is an important reason for obtaining general charge cards, as well as cards for gasoline and department stores, while others just like the fact that they can buy now and pay later.

Whatever the reason may be, students should familiarize themselves with the positives and negatives of having a credit card before obtaining one. Otherwise, students can find themselves absorbed in debt halfway through college.

If overcharging is becoming more and more like an addiction, cut up your credit cards, then call the credit card companies and tell them to close your accounts. If you choose to keep one card, use it for emergencies only.

Don't accumulate debt you can't afford to pay by the end of the month. You'll be paying double-digit interest on the unpaid balance, something smart (and prosperous) graduates avoid.

Make a conservative monthly budget and stick to it. If you are tempted to purchase something that wasn't budgeted, decide what budgeted items will be cut to pay for it, or start saving to buy it later. Don't buy unbudgeted items with a credit card.

If you do get into serious debt, don't panic. Chop up those credit cards, consult with your parents on a plan to work your way clear and chalk up the experience to "financial education."

Best Places To retire in the US of A

2006-08-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

The United States cover a large area of very different terrain, climatic conditions, lifestyles, culture and environment. If you have lived here for several years, you may be mistaken in thinking that you already knew enough about this country to make this kind of decision without too much trouble. But you couldn’t be more wrong.

The decision that you are about to make is one that will impact the rest of your life. You may of course have very clear-cut ideas about what you really want in the retirement destination of your choice.

For example, if you are fond of reading and literary pursuits, you may feel that it would be ideal to settle in a University town such as Ann Arbor. But isn’t there a possibility that it may not suit you in some other way?

Look at the example of Portland. It does really seem like a rather attractive place to settle, but property prices are on the high side here. So you may come to the conclusion that it’s not such a good idea after all.

You may fancy the charm of some of the locations in South Carolina such as Sumter or Seneca, where you will find quite a well developed community life, along with affordable housing?

Do remember that it is well worth taking your time in trying to decide where you should ultimately retire. Don’t forget that this is the decision of a lifetime, probably one of the most important that you will ever have to make. So don’t rush it – if you think you may be close to making your choice, it may be a good idea to visit the place for a short spell and talk to local people. They will be able to give you an idea of what it’s like living in the place from day to day.

And this is not to suggest at any time that you will not find the kind of place that you are looking for or come up against snags at every turn. It’s just that you have to be so much more careful, because once your decision is made and your bags are packed, in all probability there will be no turning back. It would really be terrible to find that after all the care you have taken to arrive at a decision, you’ve made a mistake and there’s nothing you can do about it.

On the face of it, every place you’ve read about has a charm of its own. So by that logic, any one of them should be right for you because you feel they sound like good places to retire in. But occasionally, you may find one element or another in a particular location that could make things difficult for you. Remember that the final decision is one that only you can make, especially if you are single. If you are making the decision as a couple, there may be factors at play that will suit one of you and not the other, although you both agree that the location, cost of living etc. will suit your pocket.

If you have very major issues about a particular place, regardless of the fact that it is agreeable in itself, it would be better to think again. Remember that you have a host of wonderful locations to choose from. So once again, take it slow and give it plenty of thought. Put your heads together as a couple and you are very likely to make the right decision. Then you can really relax and go for it!

Settling in Savannah

2006-06-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

When you are getting older and retirement is all but knocking at your door, you need to make an informed choice about where you’d like to settle down. Why not consider Savannah in the state of Georgia?

The history of Savannah goes back quite a long way to 1733 when it was founded by James Oglethorpe. The historic quarter of Old Savannah consists of a patchwork of houses interspersed by parks. 22 of the 24 that stood originally are still in evidence today, clothed in wisteria and ivy. Live oaks provide plenty of shade, with Spanish moss completing this charming picture.

Savannah has a population of over 131,000, with 8% of its residents being over the age of 65 years. The average price of a 3-bedroom house for a single family here is around
$ 204,546. There’s an elegance and old world charm to this place, where mansions that were in a state of ruin a few decades ago are now fetching millions of dollars. Apart from these, smaller properties have also attracted several buyers.

Retired people are increasingly being drawn to the more recently developed suburbs near the golf courses or along the seaside. Homes in neighborhoods with gates are generally within easy distance of the Atlantic Ocean and the Savannah River, apart from picturesque trails for walking, tennis courts and golf courses.

Property prices in these areas vary between $ 200,000 and $ 2 million. Residents who live near the water have a view of the wetlands that attract a number of birds. The catch here is that along with the birds, you are likely to find alligators in the wetlands as well. But take it easy, there’s no need to get upset.

The fact is that the alligators tend to stay in their own lagoons until they are fairly large. When the time comes they are taken away by the town authorities. So there’s nothing for you to worry about! Just a rather unique feature to this increasingly unique town. The crocodiles are in good hands and so are you!

Most residents of Savannah tend to stay there around the year, so you will find it easy to make friends. Apart from that, most of the natural environment has been preserved. This is in stark contrast to Florida where developers tended to clear it away.

If you’re looking for nightlife, culture and sophistication, you’ll find it in Savannah. You can also offer your services as a volunteer for a number of activities. You could get involved in raising funds for the new annexe to the Telfair Art Museum. Another area where you would be welcome is in repairing homes for old people through United Way.

You’ll even find a magazine called Coastal Senior, which covers news about events taking place along the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia.

Medical care is provided by the Memorial Health Hospital network, which is held in high regard, particularly for rehabilitative and cardiac care.

Although both the city and the state are financially secure, Savannah is one place where you may feel the pinch as far as taxes are concerned. You’ll find income tax and sales tax being charged at 6% each, while property tax is levied at 1.7% of the assessed value of your property. This again is taken as 40% of fair market value. You could say it’s quite a price to pay, but if you love Savannah enough, perhaps you wouldn’t mind it too much.

If you acquire property in Savannah and are prepared to spend a fair amount on land and construction, you stand a good chance of ending up with a fine house and an excellent view of the wetlands, while the value of your property could be over a million dollars. Pretty good, wouldn’t you say?

Portsmouth – An Urban Paradise

2006-05-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

When you’re looking for a good place to retire in the United States, there are a number of good locations you could choose from. One of the towns you might consider is Portsmouth in New Hampshire. Portsmouth is 50 miles away from Boston and has a population of less than 21,000. Average temperatures in Portsmouth vary between 78° and 25°F in summer and winter respectively.

It may help to know that more than a fifth of the population of this town is over the age of 65. So this is one place where, as a pensioner, you would not feel like a fish out of water. This is also a place you will love if you enjoy cold weather and have a passion for history. If that seems like an odd combination, here’s the story.

The development of Portsmouth can be traced back 400 years when the King of England granted land to the Governor of Newfoundland. This makes it the oldest town in New Hampshire. The same land on the banks of the Piscataqua River is now the location of the Strawberry Banke historical museum.

While we’re on the subject of history, when you think of putting down your new plants with the onset of spring, there is every possibility that your digging will turn up some of the stuff left by the people who lived in your house before you moved in!

It sure will come as a pleasant surprise that living in Portsmouth you will not need to pay either income tax or sales tax. You’ll also find that property taxes are affordable, amounting to 1.9% of the assessed value of your property – which brings us once again to the question of where you can expect to live.

And speaking of houses, if you’ve been attracted by the historical flavor of Portsmouth, you should know that you might not be able to find an older home in very good condition in the center of the city.

All the same, you do have a number of interesting and innovative options. You’ll find old farmhouses standing on half-acre plots of land in Stratham, Durham and Dover; then there are the warehouses on the waterfront that have been adapted into condo lofts. These come for an average price of $ 450,000. You also have the choice of opting for new properties. A three-bedroom house for a single family would cost you around $ 309,000.

Since Portsmouth is still an active port, it remains a meeting place for boisterous sailors. Portsmouth has also attracted about 400 software companies. You may be interested to know that hand in hand with the height of the development of the software industry, Portsmouth began to witness a vibrant nightlife. So if you are game, there’ll be plenty to keep you entertained with a number of fancy restaurants that have sprung up here, among other things.

Portsmouth will have plenty to offer you if you are fond of cultural pursuits. You won’t even have to go as far as Boston, since this town has a wonderful theatre of its own, apart from the Music Hall where concerts are regularly held. The University of New Hampshire in Durham, barely 10 minutes away offers courses in continuing education that you might like to investigate.

If you’re worried about medical facilities now that you’re older, you shouldn’t be because you can visit the Portsmouth Regional Hospital, which is highly respected. In case you are a heart patient, you can rest assured that your needs will be taken care of.

Here’s some good news for you. The hospital has recently included a cardiac section. Apart from this, don’t forget that Boston isn’t far away - and Boston is known for some of the best hospitals in the world.

If that’s not enough, perhaps you’d welcome the news that New Hampshire provides senior citizens with assistance in the shape of sponsored drug program. It is also considered the safest state in the country, so you can relax – there’s no need to worry.

And finally, remember the snow? You’ll find plenty of it in Portsmouth and can expect to find yourself shoveling it out of the way. Quite a contrast if you’ve been accustomed to living in a conventional building with a doorman on duty. But you can’t say it won’t make your life more interesting! You’ll find property taxes reasonable at 1.18% of the assessed value of your property.

The Bliss of Retiring in Bellingham

2006-04-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

When the time comes to retire, choosing where you’d like to live in the twilight of your life can be a difficult decision. As a senior citizen, your needs are different from those of the younger generation. However, Bellingham might just be the place for you.

This is one location where you can be fairly sure you’ll have the best of both worlds. Located in Washington State, approximately halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, Bellingham promises to be a happy blend of the great outdoors and the conveniences of urban life.

In Bellingham, you’ll find that you can live in a multistoried building and still have the choice of fishing for salmon in the creek. With a population slightly over 67,000, Bellingham seems to have it all. Approximately 12% of the residents of this town are over 65 years of age, so as a retired person, you should have plenty of company.

Situated on Bellingham Bay, you’ll find as many as three freshwater lakes here, apart from plenty of streams. Here is a town that has the aspirations of a big city without the problems. There are plenty of boat slips and quays, apart from the Interurban Trail System, which cuts through the town to reach Larrabee State Park.

If you’re fond of skiing, you’ll find that you are conveniently located a couple of hours away from Mount Whistler in Canada. You could also travel further east from Bellingham to Mount Baker, about an hour away.

Looking at practicalities, the cost of a 3-bedroom house in Bellingham is in the region of
$ 170,000. This is considered quite reasonable compared with the prices on the east coast and other areas on the west coast. Major cities located near Bellingham include Vancouver, which is 60 miles away in British Columbia and Seattle, 90 miles away.

You could even get a 4-bedroom house for less than $ 350,000, close to a quay where you may like to anchor a boat. At the same time, you could be within easy distance of a golf course. So even if you’re not already a golfer, this is one sport you could consider taking up.

If you’re keen on cultural pursuits, you’ll be happy to know that the drama department of Western Washington University stages plays on a regular basis. Apart from this, you could drop in to Village Books located in the historic sector of Fairhaven. This is a popular meeting place for discussions.

As a retired person, you may be concerned about your health. You’ll probably find that St. Joseph’s Hospital will take care of your needs, particularly since it has just been expanded to include a new cardiac care unit.

Nevertheless, a number of senior citizens claim that health care facilities have not been up to the mark and have failed to deliver quality care. This has caused physicians to opt out of established networks. As a result, it is a fairly common practice for residents of Bellingham to cross over into Canada, where they have access to more inexpensive prescription drugs. Some even cross the border for dental treatment.

Temperatures vary between 75° and 32° F. It seldom snows in Bellingham, but the city has plenty of rain, for as many as 93 days through the year. Summer temperatures hardly ever cross 80° F.

Most of what you’ve heard so far sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? So, you may be wondering, where’s the catch? You’re right, there is one, if it can be called that. Property prices have been going up. They increased by nearly 10% in 2002 and could expand by another 10% in the near future.

Retirement in St. George, Utah

2006-03-21T20:00:00.000-08:00

When the time comes to start winding down, when you have lived your life and feel that it’s time to put your feet up, you need to think about retirement. The first question on your mind will probably be – where?

Naturally, you’d like to look at the kind of place where your day-to-day life will be simple and easy to manage. You’re not as young as you used to be and comfort and convenience are important.

If this is the way you are thinking, perhaps St. George in Utah will be the kind of place you are looking for. As a retired person, there’s no getting away from the fact that finances will be one of your major concerns. So let’s take a look at a few hard facts.

Generally speaking, the cost of living in St. George is low, with property taxes amounting to less than 1% of the assessed value of the property. For those who are buying their second home, taxes are a little higher. St. George has attracted a number of people from California, who find that they can acquire two homes in St. George for the cost of the home they left behind.

Although there is an estate tax, the state of Utah is governed by federal laws. Consequently, assets up to $ 1 million in value are exempted from this tax. Income tax is charged at 7% with sales taxes a shade over 6%.

St. George is a picturesque spot in the southwestern part of Utah, within 120 miles of Las Vegas. Close to the Snow Canyon and a couple of hours away from Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, St. George also offers facilities for a variety of sports for people of all ages.

So if you are interested in sporting activities, you have plenty to choose from. About 17% of the town’s total population of approximately 50,000 is over the age of 65 years. The average price of a 3-bedroom house is about $ 200,000.

With golf courses, trails for walking, a swimming pool and tennis courts, St. George appears to have thought of everything for every kind of preference. Take the swimming pool for example – there are swimming lessons for people with arthritis and various other handicaps. Other activities include cycling and softball, apart from the Huntsman Senior Games. This is an annual feature held in October that draws about 5,000 athletes to St. George.

However, St. George is by no means a hotspot for athletes alone. So if you are more inclined towards cultural pursuits, you’ll find plenty to interest you in that direction as well. Such as the Tuacahn Theatre where concerts and plays are performed in a natural arena formed from red rock.

Because Las Vegas is so close to St. George, it is easy for Tuacahn to attract prominent performers, who contribute richly to the cultural life of the community. The other factor is the presence of the Latter day Saints community.

There’s also an annual Shakespearean festival at the Southern Utah University not far away. In addition, there’s a community theatre at which volunteers give musical performances. For people who enjoy quieter pursuits, the Dixie State College inside the town arranges trips and classes for senior citizens.

Since St. George is a small place, there is a single hospital, but another was due to open in 2005. Around the same time, the airport was expected to be able to accommodate jets. In the normal course, the residents of St. George make use of Las Vegas airport for their travel requirements.

The Mormon way of life encourages the development of cultural activities within families. As a result, there are a great many people who take an active interest in singing, playing musical instruments and dramatics.

However, there are disadvantages in this apparent paradise. Situated at the northern edge of the Mojave Desert, temperatures vary between 103° and 29°F. The climate, which is dry and sunny, draws snowbirds during the winter months. However, it can go to the other extreme in summer when it is quite a hothouse. Apart from this, there is a shortage of water and residents find it necessary to use water carefully.

Last but not least and particularly important to senior citizens is the fact that children are usually polite and treat older people with deference. All in all, St. George offers a happy blend of conditions that make for a comfortable retirement.

The Lure of Largo

2006-02-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

When you start thinking about the ideal place in which to retire, Largo in Florida could be just what you are looking for. With a population of around 70,000, you’ll find more than 30% of residents over the age of 65 years. If you are keen to belong to a retirement community and are looking for warm weather, sunshine, beaches and a good life, you’ve found it!

Residents of Largo appear to be perfectly happy where they are and often do not feel the need to go elsewhere on vacation. Doesn’t that sound tempting? Imagine living in such a place! Too good to be true? Not really. Read on and you’ll find out more.

Largo is located in the Tampa Bay area, 15 miles away from Tampa and St. Petersburg. The average price of a 3-bedroom house here is just over $ 150,000. You’ll also find condominiums on the beachfront surrounded by palm trees – scene that could quite easily have come straight out of a postcard or picture book.

Unlike Clearwater and St. Petersburg, which have spread out as they have grown, Largo has remained unspoilt, prosperous and old-fashioned in a charming sort of way. The social character of Largo is typical of what most people visualize when they hear the term ‘retirement community’.

Golf courses and parks in Largo are clean and unpolluted, and what’s more, the residents of Largo appreciate the fact and know that they are lucky to have such a wonderful environment. One of the senior citizens even claimed that if Largo’s weather were up for sale as a commodity, it would easily fetch a million dollars!

Generally speaking, the weather here is warm with temperatures varying between 82.5° and 60.5° F. Summers are humid but bearable. It seldom rains and snow remains a distant dream.

With such a large proportion of residents over the age of 65, life in Largo is predominantly colored by the culture of retirement. You’ll find people meeting wherever they can, often in church. It’s fairly easy to meet new people in Largo.

If you’re looking for cultural pursuits, you should visit the Largo Cultural Center where there are popular music festivals. However, major events are held further away in Tampa or St. Petersburg.

Largo is by and large a safe city with a mix of people belonging to different races. There’s not much crime here and because of the different kinds of people living there, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants with plenty of special offers.

If you are worried about your health, you can visit the Largo Medical Center. This is a facility accommodating 256 beds and is located inside the city limits. Apart from this, there are other larger hospitals approximately 30 minutes away.

As for the cost of living, it is lower than the national average. So also is the cost of housing. Golf and softball are popular sports here. There are five golfing clubs in Largo, while many people also anchor boats in the Gulf of Mexico.

The state of Florida charges a sales tax of 6%. However, there is no income tax and any problems with the state’s budget barely affect the residents of Largo. So now that you know what you know about Largo, does it sound like the kind of place you’d like to retire in?

Take a moment to stop and ponder – after all, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose.. Wouldn’t blame you if you have a hard time coming to a decision about a place like this! There aren’t many of them – and remember you only live once, so why not go for it!

The Flavor of Retirement in Franklin, Tennessee

2006-01-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

Do you fancy the unique charm of a small town, away from the hustle and bustle of the big city? If so, Franklin may be just the kind of place that would appeal to you when the time comes for you to start thinking about where you want to retire.

Franklin, in the state of Tennessee, has a population of less than 48,000. 7.4% of these residents are over the age of 65. The average price of a 3-bedroom house for a single family here is around $ 270,000. You’ll find houses that stand alone as well as town houses in Franklin. The average price of the latter is roughly $ 120,000. People in Franklin are generally friendly and tend to mix easily.

With Nashville about 18 miles to the north, Franklin has a Victorian downtown quarter that has found mention in the National Register of Historic Places. So if you’re fond of Victorian architecture, you’ll find plenty of it in Franklin and can have your fill of it. Although Franklin has a fair number of senior citizens, the town also has a wide range of attractions for people of all ages.

It’s a popular perception that Franklin tends to draw younger people who are attracted by the stability of the economy and the availability of jobs. Once they find their feet, their parents pay them a visit and are completely won over by the mild climate. Add the rolling hills and the unhurried pace of life for good measure….. and it won’t take long to figure out that the older generation is sold on Franklin as a wonderful place to settle down. So that ultimately is how they came to arrive in Franklin! Quite unusual. to say the least.

One elderly couple settled in Oklahoma, but their daughter and son in law settled in Franklin. In time, after several visits to Franklin, the couple shifted their base from Oklahoma and moved to Franklin themselves. Old Jake was a retired army man who now found that he was able to keep up with the latest news on military matters. He did this by joining the Middle Tennessee Retired Officers’ Association. You never can tell how events will pan out, can you?

His wife was elected to the board of the homeowners’ association. So eventually they both found interesting ways in which to occupy themselves. And they are in no way unique. There are several similar stories of people who moved to Franklin without actually having planned to, and were able to settle in happily.

Franklin has a number of shops and restaurants that should keep you suitably occupied. Apart from this, golf is also a major attraction and you’ll find an abundance of golf courses – four public courses to be precise - and five private golfing clubs in the town. If you are a football or hockey enthusiast, or a music lover for that matter, there’s plenty for you in Franklin.

If you’re looking at finances, Franklin has a number of surprises for you. For starters, there’s no income tax in Tennessee, apart from tax charged on investment income. Then again, property taxes in Franklin have not changed for 13 years, and the situation is likely to remain static for at least some time to come.

Now that’s a juicy tidbit that should start you thinking in earnest about retiring in Franklin. There’s nothing quite like going easy on the pocket to cheer you up as you get older.

Now that you have all this information about Franklin, it wouldn’t be very surprising if you are actually trying to visualize yourself living there. So if Franklin has captured your interest, maybe you will find yourself living there eventually!

The Magic of Retiring in Ann Arbor

2005-12-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

If you’re looking for a retirement destination that will offer you the benefits of a rich culture, a cosmopolitan environment and is comparatively inexpensive, maybe you’d like to consider Ann Arbor in the state of Michigan.

The population of this town is slightly over 114,000, with 8% of residents being over the age of 65 years. This is where the University of Michigan is located. In fact, the cultural life of the town centers on the university, ranging from live musical shows at The Ark to plays performed at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theater. There are 38,000 students at the University where you’ll also find Gothic architecture.

Apart from the pleasures of life in Ann Arbor, the fact that Detroit is only 43 miles away is an advantage in itself. So if you’re keen on cultural pursuits, you can reach the renowned Fisher Theatre in Detroit as well as the Detroit Institute of Arts in less than an hour. Sporting events are regarded as highlights whenever they are held and are welcomed with gusto.

There are other reasons why you will love living in Ann Arbor. If you are happy with the beauty of nature, you’ll find plenty of it here, as there are a number of scenic beaches and lakes fairly close by. Temperatures here vary between 71.5° and 24° F.

There are also as many as 147 beautiful parks. If you feel like venturing out further, you could join the Ski Club or the Bicycle Touring Society. These organizations arrange safe and economically priced expeditions to various locations around the state.

Although prices of property in Ann Arbor have been going up, they are still not too high. For instance, a 3-bedroom house for a single family in Arbor will be available for about
$ 210,000. You could also get a large condo for about $ 1,300 per month.

Property taxes here are calculated according to a complex plan. According to this, property taxes for an average 3-bedroom house have been estimated at about $ 4,755. The town is small enough to feel friendly, yet sophisticated enough for retired people to feel at home.

The cost of living here is fairly reasonable, with income tax being levied at 4% and sales tax at 6%. Traffic tickets will generally be less than $ 10. There’s no dearth of restaurants where you could pack in a substantial breakfast or lunch for just about $5. The state of Michigan also provides drugs for senior citizens on various discount schemes.

On the whole, you’ll find that people move to Ann Arbor simply because they love the place. It’s considered a city of smart people who tend to draw more smart people. Boredom is one thing you won’t have to worry about in Ann Arbor. This is one place where you can expect to be touched by the intellectual flavor of the environment, not least of which comes from the University.

Even retired people who have moved to Ann Arbor from elsewhere say they feel stimulated by the environment and are able to carry on with their cultural, political and intellectual activities.

So, do you think Ann Arbor sounds like the kind of place you would like to live in once you hang up your boots? If so, perhaps it’s time to give it some serious thought so that you can strike while the iron is hot. Nothing could be worse than a missed opportunity – this could be one that you’ll regret for a long, long time.

So why not go for it and act now? Secure your future once and for all in a place that you cannot help but love. Remember not everyone gets to live in a place that they fancy. So you should consider yourself one of a privileged few. Check it out and you’ll probably find that this is nothing short of a dream destination!

Retirement in Fort Collins, Colorado

2005-11-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

If you’re trying to decide where you’d like to retire, and you’d like to consider a place that is not too large and yet expanding, attractive and healthy to live in, maybe Fort Collins in the state of Colorado will be just what you are looking for. Located on high plains to the north of Denver, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is a college town that is becoming increasingly popular among people of all age groups.

The climate this town enjoys consists of four clear-cut seasons, but the weather is pleasant almost always so that you won’t really feel the need to stay indoors, except maybe occasionally.

Fort Collins was originally intended to be an army station and remained just that until the establishment of the Colorado State University in the1870s. In those days, the University went by the name of Colorado A& M. The town has a population of roughly 100,000 and is halfway between a large city and a small town.

With the diverse range of facilities here, you’ll find Fort Collins an interesting place to retire in. You can take your pick from hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park to visiting the theatre or the art galleries. If you are really keen on good shopping, dining or theatre, don’t forget that Denver is just 60 miles away and will more than fit the bill.

You can be sure that with such a wide range of activities, you are never likely to get bored here! In fact, you should consider yourself lucky to have found such a place to live out your old age. You don’t always get to make such choices. You really should grab opportunities like this when they pop up.

While Fort Collins is growing, the growth has been controlled so you will not see too many skyscrapers here. That’s hardly surprising, is it? Why would anyone want to shut out the spectacular view of the mountains? This kind of consciousness is an important factor that promises to keep Fort Collins a wonderful place to live for many years to come.

Well now it’s time to get down to brass tacks. We are talking about the cost of property and the cost of living in Fort Collins. Well, to be honest, you’ll find that the cost of housing has gone up rather sharply in recent years. But then again, that would be true of most places.

While you may find that rental properties are often snapped up by students, condominiums and town houses are much more easily available. It’s also a cheering thought that these properties are also much cheaper. So go ahead and try your luck – you just might find that you are ready to strike gold! You will probably find that the cost of living in Fort Collins is a little higher than the average standard in the rest of the country.

Lastly, let’s not forget about your health. Remember you are getting older and no matter how wonderful your surroundings, you have to accept that you’re going to need medical attention from time to time. So you should know that residents of this town generally go to Poudre Valley Hospital, a medical facility with a capacity of 250 beds.

For more serious complaints, Denver comes to the rescue again and you will have access to extensive health care facilities of every kind there. So if you are ever in need of medical treatment for a complaint that’s not quite routine, there’s no need to panic, you are just one hour away from Denver where you can get all the help you need.

So, does Fort Collins sound like the kind of place you’d like to retire in? It probably will capture your fancy – and remember you never really know when you’re lucky!

The Pleasures of Retiring in Portland

2005-10-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

If you want to retire in the kind of place that offers you the hustle and bustle of the big city and can still retain the charm of a small town, Portland in Oregon will probably be just right for you. The city is approximately 70 miles away from the Pacific and will provide you with the unique environment of clear streams and luxuriant greenery.

While this may not seem particularly exceptional in itself, it isn’t often that you would find this kind of environment in a city. There are a number of attractions in Portland, including a historic old quarter, museums and galleries on the one hand and a Waterfront Park and Saturday Market on the other. All of these features have drawn a large number of visitors to the city.

Apart from all this, living in Portland, you will be just a short distance away from wineries located in the valley. It may surprise you that while you are within easy reach of the beaches, you can also make it to Timberline Lodge if you are a skiing enthusiast. Doesn’t that sound like fun!

It’s beginning to sound interesting, isn’t it? But guess what – that’s not all. There is much, much more to Portland than you probably realized. Would you believe that after everything you’ve heard so far, Portland also has a profusion of parks, more than 240 to be precise. There are the South Park Blocks in downtown Portland, Washington Park and Forest Park. Forest Park is well known as the largest area of wilderness anywhere in the United States.

There are intriguing contrasts in Portland too. Against the vast expanse of Forest Park that covers more than 5,000 acres, is the tiny Mills End Park. It should hardly surprise you that such an extensive layout of parks offers plenty of scope for leisure and recreation for people of all ages.

Portland has a highly developed transport system. The system covers buses and an urban light rail system called MAX. In addition there is a downtown transit mall and Fareless Square, the unique free ride zone, also in downtown Portland. If you are fond of walking you will love Portland, as you can wander through nearly 50 miles of trails in Forest Park alone. Apart from the parks that have already been mentioned, there are also lots of bridges and fountains that make casual strolls delightful.

The city also has characteristically short blocks, which are convenient for people who enjoy walking. Take a walking tour in the downtown area and you’ll get to see the best of the city’s art and architecture.

There’s also a vibrant nightlife in Portland, with several local pubs and comedy clubs. If you’re keen on cultural pursuits, you can visit the art galleries in the Pearl district. You can also have your fill of Broadway musicals, Shakespeare, modern dance, ballet and plenty more besides.

If you’re a sporting enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Portland is the home base of the Trailblazers basketball team. The city also has plenty to offer lovers of hockey and baseball. The location and lifestyle of Portland will make it a city to remember.

There’s one small catch though. The cost of housing in Portland is fairly high and has been going up, with average prices rising by about 15% to an average of nearly $ 283,000 in 2005, up from $ 246,000 in 2004. But considering the diversity of life in Portland and all that it has to offer you, you could say you are getting a pretty good deal. Apart from new homes, there are also many condominiums on offer. Residential properties include homes for single families, town homes and multiple family units.

So it’s time to weigh the pros and cons and decide if Portland will suit you as a destination to retire in. It may cost you, but you can be sure with all the attractions that Portland has in store for you, it’ll be worth every cent!

Wonderful McCormick

2005-09-21T20:08:00.000-07:00

Did you ever consider retiring in South Carolina? If not, you might like to think again, because there are cities and towns here that would probably suit you very well. One of these is McCormick.

McCormick was founded by Cyrus McCormick, who, ironically enough, never visited the city that carries his name. He was active in buying and selling property to develop the place. Cyrus McCormick also went to considerable lengths to have railroads put down which ran through his property. This turned out to be an important factor in the development of McCormick as a commercial center, bringing prosperity, which reached its peak by the early part of 1900.

Today, McCormick has come a long way with the commercial district being developed by the South Carolina Development Association. McCormick offers wonderful recreational facilities, with the Hickory Knob State Resort Park less than 10 miles away.

People also visit the McCormick Arts Council to view exhibits of interest and attend classes and programs that are held right through the year. You may not be aware that the McCormick Arts Council has also been designated as part of the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor. So if it’s the culture of the place that interests you, it’s there for the asking. The Sumter National Forest is another major attraction here.

McCormick has a mild climate throughout the year and is close to the metropolitan hubs of Atlanta, Augusta and Columbia, where a number of services and amenities are available. The average temperature in January is 42° F, increasing to 80.2°F by July.

McCormick County has a small population of less than 1,500. For retired people, McCormick offers economical housing, which also gives them the advantage of an active lifestyle. They can visit Greenwood, which is not far away for their shopping requirements. Greenwood is also known for medical facilities.

The Savannah Lakes Village is a sprawling settlement on 4,000 acres of land on Lake Thurmond, where several hundred homes are available. Many of these are owned by retired people. So if you do feel that McCormick could be one of your choices and decide to look for housing here, this could be a good place for you to start. It’s quite likely that you will find something to suit you here.

While we’re on the subject of property, you should know that the average price of a home in McCormick is around $ 53,500. Should you be interested you can get further details from the McCormick Chamber of Commerce.

Since it is a popular choice, you’ll probably find many people like yourself heading for it as well. And apart from anything else, loneliness is one problem you won’t have to worry about!

And if you are worried about your health because of advancing age, you needn’t worry because the Village also accommodates a medical center. So all your healthcare needs will be well looked after.

Apart from Augusta, Atlanta, Columbia and Charlotte, there are other small towns nearby such as Modoc, Abbeville, Calhoun Falls, and of course Greenwood, which is frequented by residents of McCormick on a regular basis.

So, do you think McCormick is the kind of place where you would like to retire? It seems to have everything that matters, from essential services and affordable housing to a good climate, recreation and great potential for development. Do think it over. This is a decision you have to make once in a lifetime. Wouldn’t you say the picture looks pretty good?

Taking everything into consideration, one could hardly blame you if McCormick has got you thoroughly bowled over. So maybe you should let yourself go with your instincts!

The Joys of Retiring in Seneca

2005-08-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

When you are looking at choices of locations where you’d like to retire, Seneca in South Carolina might well be one of the places that will catch your fancy. Here is another spot that seems to have everything, making your decision that much more difficult!

Seneca is often referred to as ‘City of Smiles, City with Style’ because it has become a major draw for active adults who want to enjoy a good life. Seneca is yet another place that seems to have just about everything anyone could ever want all in one place. The natural beauty of this place has caught the attention of many people who are on the lookout for a suitable place to relocate to.

Seneca is situated in Oconee County, along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is flanked by the Keowee and Hartwell lakes, both of which are substantial in size. The town has the advantage of being located in a naturally beautiful setting, so if that’s what you are looking for – you’ve got it – along with a whole lot more.

Seneca has a number of opportunities for recreational and cultural pursuits, so you can be sure that you really will enjoy a good life here. Take a look.

Apart from the beauty of its natural surroundings, Seneca actually has a naturally formed recreational area to call its own. The town enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, with temperatures varying between 32°F in January and 88°F in July.

The population of the town is around 8,000. Cities close to Seneca include Spartanburg, Anderson and Greenville. Among the smaller towns located near Seneca are Clemson, Salem and Walhalla. The Chattanooga River is close by, as are the metropolitan cities of Atlanta and Charlotte.

Because it enjoys an equable climate the whole year round, the residents of Seneca are able to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, white water rafting, hiking and bird watching. Golf and tennis are popular sports here. Residents also take a great deal of interest in college events here.

If you can live in Seneca, you should consider yourself very fortunate. This is one place where you really have got yourself a package deal. Take just about anything at random – you name it, it’s there, whether you are talking about banking, shopping, restaurants, clubs or medical care – and that again is apart from the wide range of outdoor activities that we’ve already talked about.

You’ll find historical attractions along the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor and the Foothills Parkway. You’ll also find the South Carolina Botanical Gardens at Clemson – another big draw. If you are looking at educational opportunities, there it is once again – the reputed Clemson University, located 7 only miles away at Clemson. There are also a number of cultural hotspots.

Downtown Seneca is a lively and interesting area where the residents often meet their friends, do their shopping, attend to bank work etc. There are also churches and civic clubs, many of which are suitable for older residents. They also offer scope for activities involving the community at large.

As for housing, again, there is a wide range of choices in different price ranges. You’ll find older homes in downtown Seneca, as well as golf villas and retreats by the lakeside. The average price of a home here is about $ 90,700. If Seneca does strike you as an attractive choice for retirement and you’d like further details, you could contact the Seneca Area Chamber of Commerce.

If you decide to live in Seneca after you retire, you could almost call it a dream destination. Just think about it, how often do you find practically everything you want in one place. Aren’t you lucky!!

Sumter – A Paradise for Retirement

2005-07-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Sumter in South Carolina is nothing short of a paradise for retired people. Wait till you find out more about this place and you’ll know why so many people love it. Although Sumter has an appeal for people of any age, it also seems to have everything you could possibly want as a retired person.

This is true to such an extent that the President of the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce has even substantiated it. He claims that the combination of conditions in Sumter is so ideal for retired people that there has been a concerted effort to send them there. So let’s see what it is about Sumter that makes it such a jewel.

Sumter is located in the interior of South Carolina, near the Shaw Air Force Base. The town is not too large and has been attracting retired military personnel for several years. Situated west of the Grand Strand and Charleston and east of Columbia, Sumter enjoys proximity to four interstate highways.

However, there is much more to Sumter than location. The town has a population of about 40,000. The climate is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 45.4°F in January and 81.2°F in July. Sumter offers its residents just about everything they could possibly need from scenic beauty to convenience and comfort. There are also recreational and educational facilities, as well as cultural events from time to time. To cap it all, good medical care is also available at Sumter.

The Swan Lake Iris Gardens constitute the most famous landmark of Sumter. This is where the city’s Iris festival is held each year. There are also two state parks and as many as 21 city parks in Sumter. As if all that is not enough, you’ll also find 26 tennis courts and just as many golf courses.

Well, the list seems to go on and on, doesn’t it? Because we haven’t yet talked about Lake Marion and the Manchester State Forest, which are also popular centers of recreation. And haven’t we forgotten the charming shopping areas?

Believe it or not, we’re not done yet! You’re right – incredible as it may sound, there’s more. There’s a distinct flavor of culture in Sumter as well, in the shape of the Sumter County Public Library, the Sumter Gallery of Art, and the Sumter County Museum Complex, all of which are major attractions. So also is the Patriot Hall.

As a retired person, it will probably interest you to know that medical treatment in Sumter is taken care of by the Tuomey Health Care System, covering a hospital that accommodates 266 beds and is attended by over 140 doctors. So you can rest assured that you’ll be in good hands should you need medical attention.

Educational institutions in Sumter are the Central Carolina Technical College, the University of South Carolina-Sumter and Morris College. The Air Force base at Sumter also accommodates branches of many other universities.

The Sumter Newcomers’ Club makes it easy to meet and get to know new people. The club hosts various events such as card games, a supper club, coffee meetings, discussions on books etc.

As for housing, you should know that there are different kinds of housing available in Sumter. However, the average price of a home here is $ 79,900. In case you decide that Sumter is the place for you and would like to know more, you can get in touch with the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce for further details.

So, now that you’ve heard the story, what do you think? Is Sumter the place you’d like to retire in. It does sound rather attractive, doesn’t it? If you think this is the kind of lifestyle you’d like to follow, go right ahead, because places like Sumter come once in a lifetime.

Best Places To Retire In The World

2005-06-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

It does take time to digest all the information that you’ve just had about one location after another that appears to be just about perfect in every possible way.

So what do you do to make up your mind? Perhaps it would be best to consider which part of the world you’d like to be in for starters. You could then look at the specific attributes of places in the region of your choice and decide what is really important to you. If you are looking for a warm and mellow climate where you could also have good living conditions and the privileges of domestic help, then maybe you could look at places like Barbados or the Bahamas.

If you are keen on art and culture, obvious choices would be places like Venice, Rome and Florence. But then, there maybe other aspects of life in these places that may or may not agree with you. If it’s the sun and the sand and the laid back lifestyle you’re after, then maybe Cyprus is the place for you.

If all this is getting confusing, it would help to remember that every location has unique advantages of its own, but there are bound to be drawbacks too. If you are trying to weigh one against the other in an effort to make the best possible choice, remember that you may have to eventually face the inescapable fact that in the strictest sense, you can’t have everything in any one location.

At best, you may come close to finding most of the conditions that you would like to find in a retirement location. But you do have to make sure that retiring to this place is a workable idea that will fit in with other aspects of your plans. Remember that if you are going to retire to a different location from the one where you have spent the last few years of your life, however attractive the place may be it’s going to be a major change – one that you must be prepared for. You’ll also have to be prepared to face a period of adjustment and the possibility of unforeseen difficulties.

Of course, none of this minimizes in any way the beauty or splendor of any of the places we learnt about. They are in no way any less attractive than you thought originally. It’s just that once you actually have to make a choice, you’ve come to the crunch. And however much you may have set your heart on a particular location, when you actually have to move, you also have to accept that this is it for keeps.

There’s no disputing the joys and advantages of life in Malaysia or Barbados for example, but would you be able to make the change a permanent one? Many or all of these locations may have been wonderful holiday destinations and you may even have been a regular visitor to the place you finally decided on as a retirement haven.

But do remember that going on a vacation is a far cry from living in a place with unforeseen difficulties day in and day out. Not many people are in the position to reverse their decisions about where to retire if things have not worked out as they expected. So take great care in making your choices – it’s going to affect you for the rest of your life.

And finally, if you are fairly sure that you have managed to find what you were looking for and taken everything into account, consider yourself lucky and then brace yourself to take the plunge!

The Charm of Retiring in Italy

2005-05-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

Did you ever consider retiring in Italy? You may not have realized it, but this is probably one of the best locations you could choose for retirement. For one thing, it’s very well connected by air and a number of steamship lines that operate between New York and Naples or Genoa.

The Italian government has been trying to promote the country as a prime location for retirement. It’s well known that there is plenty of art and culture in Italy, in major centers such as Rome, Florence and Venice.

By and large, you’ll find that prices in Italy are not as high as other parts of Europe or America. However, there are a few areas that can be rather expensive. These include Rome and the Piazza Amerigo Capponi, which is fairly close to the Vatican.

You’ll find that all kinds of transport will be available in Italy and the transport system as just as developed as anywhere else in Europe, if not more so. You could also look at tourist brochures, which will provide you with a road map.

If you are planning to retire in Italy, it would be a good idea to pay a visit first so that you can get the feel of life in the country before you decide to settle down. One of the reasons why people are happy to retire in Italy is that people here are very friendly, caring and warm.

This fact alone has attracted people from all over the world. It may surprise you that more people choose to retire in Italy than in any other country either in Europe or North America. That’s the sort of thing that speaks for itself, isn’t it?

Life in Italy by and large is quite affordable. You’ll find restaurants in the downtown areas of many cities that have been set up specifically for students and pilgrims who need to watch their expenses. One example of such a place is the Via del Mascherino, where many have claimed that a good meal with wine is available for as little as 70 cents.

In fact, there is plenty of proof that Italy offers the best of food and dining. You’ll also find good food in France, but only in Italy will you get real value even in restaurants that are not too expensive. So if you are particularly keen on eating, Italy will probably be the best place for you to retire in.

Italy offers you plenty of stimulation by way of art and culture, in cities such as Rome, Venice and Florence. However, the Italian Riviera or Sicily may suit you better if you are looking for a simple retired life. You could also consider the town of Messina or Taormina, from where you will be able to catch a glimpse of the famous Mount Etna rising out of a cliff that emerges almost perpendicularly from the sea.

Look at the number of beautiful cities you will be able to visit in Italy – Venice with its world famous canals; Naples, which is known for one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world; Florence for art, culture, history and literature and Naples, which is also known for its ancient art collections are just a few examples of the places you would be able to visit frequently if you chose to retire in Italy.

And as it is with the food, if you have a passion for the arts, perhaps Italy will be the place for you to retire in - there’s no doubt that it will be the most romantic!

Well, ultimately it’s all up to you. You could be within easy reach of all these cultural delights if you would just make the right decision. So what do you say? Is Italy the land of your dreams?

Retirement on the Cayman Islands

2005-04-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

When the time comes for you to retire, you may find yourself considering destinations that you would never have thought of earlier. Such as the Cayman Islands, which basically consist of three islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. These three islands are located in the western Caribbean, northwest of Jamaica and south of Cuba and Miami. Georgetown on Grand Cayman is the capital city.

The total area of these islands is 100 square miles, the largest being Grand Cayman, which covers an area of 76 square miles. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman cover 14 and 10 square miles respectively. These islands are a popular destination for diving enthusiasts and there is an abundance of scenic beauty.

You can enjoy a good life on these islands. There’s a dry season from November to April and a rainy season that lasts from May to October. It’s generally driest in March and April, while the wettest months are usually May and October. Temperatures vary between 75°F in winter and 85°F in summer. However, don’t let the pleasant weather make you complacent. There’s still every possibility that you could get sunburn.

There’s a wide variety of flora and fauna here, with many animals that are indigenous to the area. There’s also a wealth of marine life here, the most popular of which is the green turtle.

Life in the Cayman Islands can be quite enjoyable. The region is a British Colony and the vast majority of people, male and female, are literate. British law governs the area and the official language here is also English. However, Spanish is also spoken by foreign nationals, from Latin America, Cuba etc.

If you decide to retire in the Cayman Islands, you’ll find all the regular conveniences at your disposal. There is no direct taxation so this area is a prosperous financial hub, and a large number of companies conduct their operations from here. This includes nearly 600 banks and trusts.

53% of the total population belongs to the Cayman Islands. As far as housing is concerned, you’ll find both apartments and condominiums, of which 45% are occupied by owners. Even so, there is a large proportion of foreigners who have lived and worked in the area for varying lengths of time.

Telecommunications, television and Internet services are fairly well developed here so you can be sure that you’ll have modern amenities at your disposal. This includes the mobile network.

If you are looking for housing, you’ll find property prices a little on the high side and tending to increase every year. Prices are highest on Grand Cayman, but you can expect the price of land to be lower on the other islands. There are no restrictions against foreigners owning land in the Cayman Islands. If you were looking to acquire property, it would be best to consult a real estate agent.

There are still several properties on the beachfront or overlooking the ocean on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. If you are thinking of retiring here, these will probably be just the kind of properties you would be interested in. The cost of living here is also fairly reasonable.

So do you think the Cayman Islands will suit you as retirement destination? As you can see, the area is quite well developed with all the conveniences of modern life and you are free to own property here. You have a pleasant climate, plenty of scenic beauty and the chance to live a peaceful life here. It does sound like rather a good place to retire in, doesn’t it? Think it over and you’ll probably agree.

Retirement in Malaysia – Too Good to be True?

2005-03-21T20:43:00.000-08:00

Malaysia is yet another place where you could choose to retire and follow a lifestyle that is almost too good to be true. If you are fed up with bad weather, worried about the rising cost of living and worried about security, you could say it’s time for a change of scene. So even if you have strong links to the place where you have lived many years of your life, maybe it’s time to take the plunge and see what’s out there for the taking.

Malaysia will offer you the best of a tropical climate, with beautiful scenery around you and a friendly local population. After the gloomy weather conditions you’ve been accustomed to back home, here is your chance to bask in the sunshine without a care in the world.

This is one place where you can really live, as you want to and decide whether you’d rather live in a city, a mountain resort or a seaside. It’s a place where you can afford to retire early and live comfortably, yet spend less. Doesn’t that sound a little too perfect? Even so, it’s true, you know.

Malaysia offers a program to all foreign residents who would like to settle down in the country over the long term or even retire there. There are several advantages to this program. One of these is a 10-year Visit Pass and Multiple Entry Visa, which must be renewed every ten years. This is a provision, which will ultimately allow you to come and go as you please for life.

You can also own businesses in Malaysia and invest freely. This by itself is almost like having a second passport. Among other things, if you were to buy a new car or import one, you could do so without paying any tax on it.

In Malaysia, you can enjoy the simple pleasures of an equable climate and a low cost of living. Taking the cost of a burger as an example, it is far cheaper than what you would end up paying for the same thing in the US for example.

Malaysia is also located outside the so-called Ring of Fire, so there is no danger of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Take a look at basic living conditions and amenities available to you – about 66,000 kms of excellent roads, made up of different kinds of highways; fixed line communications even for remote areas; extensive health care facilities, including public and private hospitals that are equipped to perform complex surgical procedures at reasonable prices; wonderful sights such as the Petronas Towers, the Genting Highlands, the Niah Caves and Mount Kinabalu, to name just a few which will take your breath away.

With a good infrastructure, pleasant weather, a cost of living that is one of the lowest in the region coupled with one of the highest standards of living in the area, you have to admit that what you have is nothing short of a winning combination.

Malaysia is also politically stable and safe, a country, which by law treats everyone equally. This is a carryover from the British system of justice, which also offers an independent and stable judicial framework.

Looking at the lighter side of life, with regard to food, entertainment, recreation and shopping, let’s cut a long story short - Malaysia has something for everyone. The country also has well developed educational systems with good international schools where the medium of instruction is English. You’ll also find private colleges and major educational institutions from around the world.

There is a wide range of different kinds of residential accommodation here – apartments, condominiums, bungalows, semi-detached and terraced houses. Some of these apartments are located in picturesque settings - near theme parks, on beaches or near jungles. Foreigners are also entitled to take loans of 60% or more from local banks.

Well, how does it sound so far? Whoever said you can’t have everything didn’t know about this place, did they?

Barbados – Dream Destination for Retirement?

2005-02-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

Barbados is yet another place that holds plenty of promise as a destination for retirement. Anyone choosing to retire here is assured of a good life in more ways than one. On the one hand you have the marvelous scenery and mellow climate.

It may come as news to you that more than 5,000 Britons are already enjoying the benefits of retired life in Barbados. The scope of the place is simply limitless. Let’s see what we’ve got – wonderful weather, beautiful beaches, clear water and a clean environment – and all the benefits of modern conveniences.

All of this may sound rather incredible coming as it does like a sort of package deal, but it’s true enough all right. Imagine that you can have this wonderful environment, the pleasures of a leisurely lifestyle, the advantages of modernization – and a whole lot more.

In Barbados, you will even find that you can get domestic help – full time cooks, gardeners and housekeepers, who will take the pressure of work off your shoulders and make it that much more possible for you to enjoy a stress free life. And speaking of cooks, even the food - particularly the seafood – is wonderful.

You will surely love the many traditional delicacies as well as the simple goodness of fresh fruits and vegetables, in such a stimulating environment.

Barbados can give you just about anything you want. Apart from everything we’ve already seen, you’ll also find the local people warm and friendly, and traditionally polite. That’s just the way they are with strangers. They are always ready to stop whatever they may be doing just to help you.

These are people who seem to be naturally hospitable, respectful of people in general and yet they are ready to live life to the fullest. They will certainly make you feel welcome.

You’ll find that the cost of living in Barbados is fairly low, while at the same time the standard of living is high. Rather an attractive combination! As a result, you’ll be able to live in style. And let’s not forget health care, which will be particularly important to you as a retired person. Good news once again! Healthcare in Barbados is of a very high standard, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about, should you need treatment.

And don’t forget there’s more fun thrown in. Remember what we said about modern conveniences…. You’ve got it! All the luxury and leisure is about to get that much more intoxicating when you find that you can also use the Internet, avail of duty free shopping and attend concerts, visit museums etc. etc.

If what you’ve heard so far has got you dazzled, be prepared – it’s not over yet! Because in Barbados, it is possible to avoid paying taxes when you acquire property – and the best part is that all this is perfectly legal and above board.

As an expatriate, you’ll be required to pay less than a local. What’s more, when you sell your property, you do not have to pay capital gains tax. There are many Britons who are minting money, buying and selling different kinds of property in Barbados.

While it’s generally true that retirement is associated with advancing age. That’s the time when you can put your feet up and avail of all the marvelous facilities that Barbados has to offer. But is that strictly true? Do you really have to wait till you retire?

If you like what you’ve been hearing, maybe you can go for it a lot sooner than you planned. Go ahead, make your choice and live out your dream!!

The Delights of the Bahamas

2005-01-21T20:48:00.000-08:00

What would you think about retiring in the Bahamas? Far fetched? Not at all. Far flung maybe, but sometimes you have to take time to explore new opportunities and often you find yourself coming up with a winner.

Not many places come across as perfect for retirement as the Bahamas. Remember that as a retired person, you’d most probably enjoy peace and quiet, and you can have plenty of that here. But you’d also like to get back together with the family for annual celebrations and get-togethers.

Apart from the scenic beauty of this area and the seclusion that is so important to your peace of mind, you have the reassurance of knowing that you can reach the United States easily whenever you need to. That’s what makes the Bahamas so special.

So when you retire in the Bahamas, there’s no need to feel at all insecure. You could say you’d have the best of both worlds. This is about the only Caribbean destination that offers you the privilege.

Living in the Bahamas, you’ll find a maritime, somewhat tropical climate. You’d have to get accustomed to it to really know how fortunate you are to have it. The temperature could be around 75°F, more or less average for the winter, which lasts from November to March in this region.

It would take you about two hours to reach New York City by jet –where you’d find temperatures somewhere between 15° and 20°F. Now be honest – which would you rather have?

When you are looking for a place to retire, the choice could be rather a difficult one in the Bahamas, because you are looking at a group of 700 islands along with as many as 2,000 smaller islands.

The total area covered by the Bahamas is about 100,000 square miles. So you certainly have no dearth of choices when you’re trying to decide where to settle down. While it isn’t possible to look at all the islands, there are a few that you might want to consider – such as Berry Islands, Cat Islands, Harbor Island, Grand Bahama, Long Island and many, many more – just there for the asking. And each is unique in its own special way. Isn’t that just fascinating!!

When it comes to lifestyle, one of the most important factors is communication and – language. You’ll be happy to know that there is really nothing to worry about, because the people of the Bahamas are perfectly at home with English. This may have something to do with their British influences in their history.

The currency used in the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar, more or less equivalent in value to the US dollar. Both currencies are used all over the Bahamas.

The region has enjoyed relative peace from a political standpoint, as a parliamentary democracy for about three hundred years. The economy is stable, with low taxes and not much regulation. In fact, the economy of the Bahamas is one of the strongest in this part of the world. Per capita GDP stands at about B$ 12,600.

Now that we’ve got all the critical information out of the way, let’s look at the lighter side of life in the Bahamas. Retired people in the modern world are no longer content to be idle just because their active working lives are over.

So here’s some welcome news for you – if you are game, there is a host of activities to keep you happy and contented. You can take your pick – diving, swimming, fishing, boating, golfing – you name just about anything and you can have it – right around the year too! If you enjoy these activities that sure will perk you up.

While we’re on the subject of how suitable the Bahamas are for retirement, you may be interested to know that the government has been making a considerable effort to draw investors and retired people to the region. These measures have been adopted rather seriously and have taken the form of legislation.

Such legislation is specifically geared to making it easy for people to transport construction materials, both for new construction and for refurbishment of existing properties. So what does all this tell you? Is the place booming or not? You can decide for yourself!

Cyprus – A Haven for Retirement

2004-12-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

Did you ever think of retiring in Cyprus? It’s a much more attractive choice for retirement than you probably realize. Are you aware that many people from the northern parts of Europe are extremely keen to retire here? Have you ever wondered why? Let’s try to find out.

The main reason why people from northern Europe are drawn to Cyprus is because this is one country that offers them the kind of climate they simply love. The typical climate of Cyprus consists of long summers and winters that are fairly mild.

If you consider that there’s also not much rainfall and glorious sunny weather for as many as 320 days in the year, you know you’re definitely onto something good here.

If you are looking for a better quality of life, then Cyprus could be the place for you. Living here, you would have the idyllic climate to call your very own. And that’s apart from the breathtaking scenery, which includes a picturesque countryside and miles and miles of sandy beaches.

Add to that a beautiful coastline and you’ll begin to realize how fortunate you are to retire in such a wonderful place. It seems to have just about everything you could possibly need to live well.

If the natural beauty of this place does not leave you suitably impressed, remember that you will also find a wide range of leisure activities here. Whether you are keen on 18 hole golf courses, health clubs, water parks or tennis clubs, you may find it hard to believe, but you’ll find them all in Cyprus.

In short, as far as sports and leisure activities go, the country seems to have all the facilities you could possibly conceive of. Which also means that you will have more than enough to keep you busy as a retired person, or otherwise. And naturally this will be a big plus, whether you are a holidaymaker or a full time resident of Cyprus.

In case you are not sure whether Cyprus would be a suitable choice for retirement, you could make a short visit to check out the place, observe the lifestyle, look at property etc. It’s unlikely that your uncertainty will last for too long!

You’ll find that Cyprus will offer you a high standard of living, on a par with European standards. If you ever had any doubts about retiring here, that by itself should tell you a lot.

And then again, you’ll have other major advantages living in Cyprus, apart from the abundance of natural beauty. One of these is the low crime rate, which amounts to 1/6 of the European average. This makes it a perfect place to live and raise your kids. As a retired person, you should also feel secure knowing that the country is safe, by and large.

If you like what you’ve heard so far, you’re in for a surprise – there’s some more news for you. It’s quite possible that you are already overwhelmed by all that Cyprus has in store for you.

But what would you say if you also heard that this is a place where the cost of living is low? It gets better and better, doesn’t it? Too good to be true, perhaps – but it is true. In many parts of Cyprus, the cost of housing is far below what’s considered average in Europe. So is the cost of food and most household goods. So there you are – scenic beauty, a wide range of leisure activities, relative safety and a low cost of living. What more will it take for you to make up your mind?

Maybe you’ve already waited too long. There isn’t much to hold you back now. This certainly is one golden opportunity. Don’t let it slip away – such things don’t come too often!

How to Save Money on a Mortgage

2004-12-21T06:11:00.000-08:00

We’ve already established that, in order to get rich slowly, you need to save money at every turn. For many of us, a house is the biggest purchase we’ll ever make. Here are some tips for landing a mortgage that fits your budget – with room to spare.

First, do the research yourself. If you think you can trust a mortgage broker to sniff out the best mortgage terms, think again! Whatever savings they finagle will soon be lost as the broker fees pile up. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) conducted a study on the price of loans secured through a broker, and those secured by the home buyers themselves. Those who used a broker typically paid 27% more in loan fees than those who did the work themselves.

So how do you go about finding the most competitive rates without the help of a broker? The Internet is a valuable tool for comparison shopping of all stripes. Comparing mortgages is no different. Go online and do a search for “compare mortgage rates”. You’ll find numerous mortgage loan calculators and rate comparison charts that show you the current rates being offered in your area.

Once you’ve generated a list, compare each lender’s annual percentage rate (or APR). The APR is the most accurate measure of the loan’s full cost. Choose several good offers and print out your list for further scrutiny.

Now it’s time to eliminate the loans that aren’t up to par. Is there a mortgage that requires higher up-front fees than the others? Scratch it off your list. Look for fixed-rate mortgages so that you can keep the same interest rate throughout the life of your loan. If you’re looking at adjustable-rate mortgages, look at the rate caps to see how far and how fast your interest rate could rise.

When you’ve whittled your list down to three candidates, send in your mortgage loan application to those three lenders. You can apply to all three on the same day, usually for free. They’ll respond with good-faith estimates, and you will have better data to compare. The lender with the lowest price wins!

See? That was a fairly painless way to shave up to 27% off of the cost of your home loan. And when you’re trying to get rich slowly, every little bit counts.

The Magic of Hawaii

2004-11-21T20:54:00.000-08:00

If you would like to retire in an exotic location, you can hardly find a better place than Hawaii. Hawaii consists of a group of islands, so you will have plenty to choose from in deciding where to settle down. Each of these islands is unique in itself and you can make your decision depending on the kind of lifestyle you want to follow.

First among the islands is Oahu. This is where the capital city of Honolulu is located, along with the popular Waikiki Beach. It is also the most densely populated. There are a number of industries on the island. Many residents of Oahu work in Honolulu and good housing is available in the downtown area. You’ll find banks, hotels, hospitals and schools here among other conveniences. So remember, if you are a retired person and require medical attention, help is close at hand.

However, if you prefer to live in the suburbs, you could try Hawaii Kai in the south east of Honolulu or Kailua, which is cooler, since it is located on the windward side of the island. There are several other areas as well, where you will find all the facilities you need to live a comfortable life.

Mililani in Central Oahu offers you more of the same. This was one of the first planned communities in the country, where construction commenced in 1968.

Next in importance among the islands is Maui, which is not as heavily populated or developed as Oahu. However, it is still a popular place, with many people working in the nearby cities of Kahului and Wailuku.

Another island is Kauai, which is fairly quiet, but has been a popular location for the filming of major screen productions. There are hospitals and other medical services here too. The majority of people lives and works in districts such as Wailua and Koloa, among others.

Then there is the Big Island, so called because it is the largest in Hawaii. Here you will find a diverse range of natural features such as rainforests, world famous beaches, and even lava fields, apart from one of the most active volcanoes on earth. People work in Kailua Kona or Hilo, coming in to work from outlying areas.

Last in importance among the islands are Molokai and Lanai. These are the smallest islands, places where you will not be troubled by rush hour traffic, tall buildings and crowds. Doesn’t that sound attractive? The main focus of employment here is on agriculture, tourism and government posts.

So, there you are – you have quite a wide selection to choose from, don’t you? And remember, whichever one you choose, there’ll be plenty of scenic beauty for free as well. That doesn’t happen often, does it?

And remember, each of these islands has its own star attractions, which you will have all the time in the world to explore. One thing you can be sure of – life in Hawaii will be good for you. And there is plenty of evidence to show for it.

People in Hawaii have been known to live the longest. That’s not very surprising considering they are blessed with a clean environment, picturesque surroundings, low stress and great seafood. All of which makes up a rather colorful picture, don’t you think? Just play your cards right and this wonderful world could be yours.

Imagine being able to call a place like this home, as you get older and need to start slowing down. Few people get to make such attractive choices. So put on your thinking cap. Life here may be a little different to what you have been used to in the United States, but surely nothing can beat the laid back lifestyle of Hawaii.

Remember this could be one of the most important decisions you’ll ever have to make – certainly one that will affect you for the rest of your life. Your future is now in your hands!

The Joys of Retiring in the Dominican Republic

2004-10-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

There’s no shortage of wonderful locations in which you can retire in various parts of the world. It may be a good idea to take a look at the Dominican Republic and see what this region has to offer. Surprisingly, many Americans have stumbled across this place by accident, often while they’ve been on vacation. But they seem to have been won over very quickly and taken the opportunity to relocate.

This is a region that is a feast for the eyes, with beautiful beaches, clear water, a wonderfully breezy environment and a lot more. But the reason why it is so popular is because it’s a place where you can live very comfortably for as little as $ 2,000 or even less. This sure is welcome news, whether you are a tourist or looking to invest in property here.

Although people in the Dominican Republic seem to earn less money, amazingly they are able to live much better than people in the United States. And what’s more, the pace of their lives is calm and unhurried. Their counterparts in the United States seem to be under much more pressure, earning good money, yet barely making ends meet.

Why is that? Because the cost of living in the United States is astronomical compared to the cost of living in the Dominican Republic. Add to this the fact that on top of all the privileges you have living in this country, you can actually get 18% interest on your bank account – tax free! Who could ask for more?

As a result, people have more time to really live their lives instead of beating their brains out just to make money – and just about get by after all they have been through. Compare that to the lazy laid back lifestyle of the Dominican Republic, where people have actually confessed to having become lazy with the leisurely pace of life that they have got accustomed to!

There’s no doubt about it, Dominicans are in the enviable position of being able to live life to the hilt. Remember, your dollar investments here are earning high rates of interest, all of which is tax-free. This is a country that has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. And then, take a look at health care facilities here. You won’t be disappointed – they are as modern as you need them to be.

As it happens, Europeans have been visiting the Dominican Republic for years. However, tourists from the United States made up less than 10% of the visitors. The result was that the beauty and amazing potential of this country dawned on Americans pretty late in the day.

Whether you are captivated by the scenery, the lifestyle, the nightlife or the climate, you can be sure that the Dominican Republic will be a place to remember – particularly if you are looking at it from the point of view of retirement.

You may argue that there are other places in the Caribbean that are just as appealing. True enough, but the scope of the Dominican Republic for both the investor and the retired person remain unmatched. Apart from its many attractions, you may not know that this country has the largest expanses of flawless beachfront properties anywhere.

The reemergence of this region in the 1990s has culminated in the transformation of the nation into one that can hold its own in the 21st century. Foreign direct investment has expanded a great deal since 1993 and has not stopped since.

Well, you certainly have stumbled on a rare gem, haven’t you? Now it’s up to you to make the most of this unique opportunity to secure your future. So do make your decisions wisely and you will have no regrets!

Costa Rica – A Retirement Paradise

2004-09-21T21:07:00.000-07:00

You might like to consider retiring in Costa Rica. This is one country that will offer you many, many advantages both in the normal course and as a retired person. Traditionally, the country has been politically stable and has a democratic form of government.

During the difficulties posed by the Cold War, there were a number of global organizations that considered Costa Rica a safe haven to operate from. The main focus at the time was extending aid to Latin America.

Costa Rica, situated at the southern end of Central America, covers an area of more than 51,000 kilometers and has a population of about 3.2 million. The country is known for its natural beauty, with different kinds of vegetation and wonderful beaches, where you will surely love to spend a great deal of time.

The diversity of Costa Rica’s natural beauty is such that whether you are looking for beaches, forests, mountains, national parks or volcanoes, believe it or not, you can find them all in this amazing country!

Costa Rica has an equable climate, with temperatures varying between 68°F and 78°F, rather reminiscent of spring. Most of the time, you’ll be able to get by with just light clothing. There’s a dry season from December to April, when temperatures are quite high – pleasant in the valleys, warmer in the lower coastal regions. During the dry season, days are sunny and nights are cool.

During the rainy season, which continues from May to October, you’ll see overcast skies and heavy rain most of the time. Around the end of July and the beginning of August, the weather begins to resemble spring.

Costa Rica is only a 3-hour flight from many locations in the southern part of the United States. There are also several direct flights to locations in Europe and South America from Costa Rica.

Costa Ricans place a great deal of importance on education. You will find many highly qualified professionals and technical people here. As a retired person, you can expect to find several Costa Ricans who can speak English and will be ready to help you if you are in trouble.

English is widely spoken and understood here, although the official language of the country is Spanish. Often you’ll find that young people in Costa Rica have received a bilingual education at grade school and been through high school with English, German or French.

In addition, communications are very highly developed here. Costa Rica offers many benefits as a tax haven. There are no exchange controls on foreign currency and foreigners can expect to enjoy the same privileges as Costa Rica’s citizens. The currency used in Costa Rica is the colon. You could also exchange your foreign currency or make your payments through Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

One of the reasons why you may be drawn to Costa Rica as a retirement destination is that any profits you make within the country are not taxed, whether you are a national, foreigner or non resident. This includes capital profits, gift and estate taxes. Royalty income received from abroad is also exempted from tax, whether the author is a resident of Costa Rica or not.

Occasionally, you may come across incidents of civil unrest, such as strikes and demonstrations, but Americans are not generally caught up in such episodes.

As far as housing is concerned, you have several choices, such as independent living, assisted living or retirement communities, which are truly beautiful settings. You’ll find as many as 60 independent villas as well as a health center in Costa Rica.

You can live in this country for as little as $ 1,000 to $ 1,300 per month and the quality of life that you would enjoy would be far better than what would be available for that amount of money in the United States.

The cost of property in Costa Rica compares with prices in the United States – with one important difference. You’d get better value for the same price in Costa Rica. Let’s say the price of a home would be about the same as that of Middle America – but in Costa Rica, your home could well include a view of the ocean or a wilderness in your backyard!

As for safety and security, it would be better carry your passport at all times. The alternative is to keep it securely locked in your hotel or place of residence, as thefts have been known to occur.

By and large, life in this country promises to be rich and varied. So are you ready to take the plunge? Think it over – remember you could do a lot worse!

The Bliss of Retiring in Belize

2004-08-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

Belize in Central America is another place that you might consider as a destination for retirement. If you think that you could be happy in a tropical paradise, here’s one for the asking.

Belize, which was earlier known as the British Honduras, is flanked by the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala and Mexico. This is one place that has drawn many people who are looking for a laid back lifestyle, a low cost of living and good medical care. In fact, medical care in Belize may cost you just about a third of what you would pay for the same facilities in the United States. However, it would help to remember that Medicare is not accepted here or anywhere outside the United States.

The climate of Belize is warm and includes a rainy season. There’s a democratic government, the economy is stable and you can expect tax incentives. You could say that English is the official language here.

Belize has a population of about 250,000, of which roughly 10% are expatriates from the United States, Canada and Britain. Since it is a developing country, you may find that you’ll have to do without many of the conveniences you may have been accustomed to back home in the United States.

In fact, even if you do not consider yourself particularly well off, in Belize you would probably be regarded as rich. You may be surprised to know that it would be possible for a couple to live quite well in Belize on as little as $ 1000. Isn’t that incredible? As we said, the low cost of living is a distinct advantage here. However, living in Belize, you would also have to get by on your own to the extent that you would have to take care of repairs yourself.

If you decide that you would like to retire in Belize, there are a number of ways that you could go about it:

You could stay in the country on a tourist visa and have it renewed every month. After six months, you could apply for a work permit, which may set you back by about $ 750.

You could also get citizenship of Belize by staying in the country for a year, during which time you will need to show a steady income. If you are single this will amount to $ 750 a month, while for a couple, the minimum requirement is $ 1,000 a month. If you can do that, you’ll be able to work thereafter without a work permit.

You’ll also be free to come and go as you like and need not stay in Belize right through the year. What’s more, your citizenship will remain valid. That’s saying quite a lot, isn’t it? Who could ask for more?

The third option you have is to apply for the Retired Persons Incentive Program. This is a formal process of application that you have to go through to relocate to Belize. To qualify for this, you should be at least 45 years of age, be prepared for an application fee which is presently $ 710 and be willing to have your background checked. You will be required to show earnings of at least $ 2,000 from a source outside the country. Again, this figure has changed from time to time and may change yet again in the future. You should be prepared for that. However, under the incentive program you can only work if you are running a business undertaking of your own.

As for housing and real estate, you could acquire a lovely 3-bedroom house looking out over the ocean for about $ 250,000. Alternatively, you could buy a plot just near the water’s edge for $ 10,000. Do be careful to ensure that you have a clear title for the property. It would also be a good idea to pay a visit in the rainy season just to ensure that the property is safe from the water.

As a permanent resident, you could also procure homestead land here, taken on lease from the government for as little as $ 5 to $ 17 a year. If you can develop the land – which could include clearing of brush and putting down a foundation – you could then acquire this land from the government for the amazing cost of $ 250.

If that’s hard to believe, remember that Belize is a country where land is available in plenty and there aren’t too many people. So the government is ever ready to give away land to people who will put it to good use.

It’s been pretty good going so far, hasn’t it? Now for the downside of living in Belize – heavy traffic, beggars on the streets and the constant threat of hurricanes, even though they don’t usually pose any real danger. But then, if you are prepared to take the rough with the smooth, this is one place that does have a lot going for it.

Unforgettable San Miguel

2004-07-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

San Miguel in Mexico is another spot that you could consider as a choice for retirement. San Miguel was given the status of a national monument in 1926 and has attracted about 5,000 expatriates from America and Canada. The total population of the city is about 70,000.

This is an extremely picturesque place with cobbled streets and colonial mansions. Because of its status as a national monument, there’s a restriction on the construction of new buildings here, as this would change the character of the place.

Despite the fact that San Miguel has attracted so many expatriates, the city has successfully retained a strong Mexican identity. San Miguel is slightly more expensive than Lake Chapala, but living here is still relatively inexpensive. For example you could rent a good home, not too far from the downtown area for about $ 500 a month. You could also live a comfortable life here for as little as $ 1,500 per month. You could of course spend much more if you wanted, but that would depend on the kind of lifestyle you choose to follow.

There’s a very active cultural life here and a number of religious festivals are held every year. This is a place that is exalted as an artists’ community. This is also where you will find the world renowned Instituto Allende that has attracted some of the finest artists and craftsmen from around the world.

If you were to consider retiring in a place like this, you would be happiest if you shared an interest in the arts, as this is the driving force of many of the activities and occasions in the town.

San Miguel offers some of the best shopping opportunities in Mexico, as well as a profusion of restaurants for fine dining. In fact, considering that San Miguel is not very large, it is rather surprising to see the wide range of international cuisine that is available here.

San Miguel is one of the most scenic areas of Mexico. But do be careful if you are getting carried away by all that you are finding out. If you were considering a permanent move to Mexico, it would be best for you to spend at least a week in the country. Rent a place for six months and come back when the rental period commences so that you can get used to the ethnic character of the place.

If you don’t, you may be faced with a kind of culture shock, should you decide to shift without testing the water so to speak. Do realize how important this is because it could change your whole experience of life in a place that will naturally be alien to you as an outsider. The more you do to ensure that you can settle in easily, the more you can ensure that the transition will be a smooth one

You will generally find that rental apartments here are furnished so there’s no need for you to transport furniture. Over six months, spend your time exploring the city, getting the feel of the place and connecting with other expatriates whenever you can.

Get into the swing of daily life by riding on the buses, using the local currency and living from day to day without regarding yourself as a tourist. If you are still comfortable, then maybe you can consider shifting permanently.

Once you know what you are letting yourself in for, you’ll be in a fairly strong position to make a final decision. You have to admit that life in this place looks pretty good. Do be prepared to give yourself a little time to settle down. Things are bound to be rather different from what you may be accustomed to back home. But then you know what they say about the pleasures of a home away from home!

Mexico – The Lure of Lake Chapala

2004-06-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

If you’ve ever spent a vacation in Mexico, you’ve probably enjoyed yourself thoroughly – beautiful beaches, marvelous scenery, fascinating cities. But a vacation is a vacation. Did you ever start thinking about something more permanent – like retiring in Mexico for example? Even if retirement is still a few years away, if you have had the thought, that what counts. As it happens, more and more expatriates are tending to favor Mexico as the perfect place to retire.

Why is this so? Well, let’s see. The fact is that you will be able to live in Mexico at about half the cost that you would normally pay and still have most, if not all of the conveniences you are used to. It may surprise you that you could even end up living better than you did before.

While it is the prospect of living more economically that prompts most people to choose Mexico as a destination for retirement, this is not the only reason. Several other factors come into play here. One of these is the stability of the Mexican economy and the fact that English is spoken in many parts of Mexico.

Another reason is that expatriates can travel to and from the United States with relative ease. They are also permitted to buy and sell property in Mexico. In addition, it is perfectly possible to spend six months in the country at a stretch. And then again, you’ll find that in Mexico, older people command respect.

Although there is a popular misconception that health care and insurance are not up to the mark in Mexico, the reality is quite different. Health care in Mexico is in fact excellent. Often, you will find doctors in the country have been trained in the United States. This is the case with the Americas hospital. Blue Cross and other insurance schemes are accepted here. However, Medicaid and Medicare are not considered valid outside the United States. Even so, you’ll find many other plans that are accepted in Mexico.

Mexico enjoys warm weather and some parts of the country have a tropical climate. In a few areas, summer remains mild. Expatriates frequently opt for the Mexican Social Security or MSS plan. When it comes to dental treatment, Mexico is a clear winner. This is because dental treatment is available in Mexico for a third of the cost that you would pay in the United States.

There are retired people from North America practically everywhere in Mexico. Your choice of where to live will depend on the extent to which you wish to absorb the Mexican culture. It also depends on how much or how little you want to spend to maintain your lifestyle.

Usually, areas that have a larger proportion of expatriates tend to be rather more expensive. On the other hand, you’ll find that in the Lake Chapala area, which has become home to as many as 40,000 Americans, two people can live comfortably for as little as $ 1,200.

Lake Chapala, often referred to as simply Lakeside, is one destination where you can be very comfortably off for about half of what you would spend in the United States. You can expect to have a relaxed lifestyle here.

This is Mexico’s largest lake and became a retirement haven for expatriates just after World War II. English is widely spoken and understood and expatriates have established a strong presence here.

The climate of Lake Chapala is mild and there’s no dearth of things to do, so you won’t be bored to say the least. The scenery is beautiful and you can reach the United States easily by air whenever you want. Lake Chapala has all the normal conveniences, with banks, shops and restaurants, hotels and boat clubs. In fact, there is quite an active nightlife here. However, do keep in mind that this is Old Mexico and not a resort.

For serious shopping, you can go to Guadalajara, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi. There’s even a cyber café, where the charges are very reasonable as is the case everywhere else in the area.

There are a number of towns around the lakeside, the most important of which is Ajijic. This is a town of about 5,000 people with cobbled streets and beautiful gardens. Essential services and day-to-day expenses are extremely cheap here. Dental treatment is probably the most costly, somewhere between $ 15 and $ 20 per month.

So what do you think? Could you see yourself retiring in such a place? It does sound rather attractive, doesn’t it, especially when you know you can reach the United States easily whenever you want. So do give it some serious thought. This could be just the place for you.

Market Watch – Jan. 2004

2003-12-27T01:09:00.000-08:00

As we usher in the New Year, we can look for continued good news about interest rates and home sales in Cobb County, North Fulton and Cherokee, mixed with increased concern about unemployment numbers nationwide, causing economic forecasters to believe that 2004 will be a balancing act in the real estate sales arena, both locally and nationally.

Currently, interest rates are on the move downward again and the Federal Reserve is not expected to increase these rates for at least the next six months. Productivity in the U.S. continues to grow, keeping inflation in check. While all of this is good news for interest rate watchers, it paints a gloomy unemployment picture. To better understand, consider this: The economy is beginning to grow but productivity continues to rise, which is slowing job growth. In fact, many economic forecasters do not see the employment picture improving until 2005. Because of such, 2004 could require some juggling in the in real estate sales, with buyers and sellers forced to compensate for this uncertainty.

On one hand, the unemployment rate continues to cause concern; on the other hand, mortgage interest rates are expected to remain at current levels and may even go lower over the next 60 days. This push to lower interest rates may push housing sales up in the first quarter in the Atlanta area after several months of declining sales. (Housing sales have fallen about 10% over the past several months in the Atlanta area and housing prices have continued to show a slight decrease since the beginning of 2003.)

The "buyer / seller" arrow is now leaning towards a "buyers" market for the next several months. The "hot" price range continues to be the $250,000 to $400,000 range. However, we still see strong activity in the first-time homebuyer range of $150,000 to 210,000. The upper end of the market continues to lag but should begin to pick up some steam as more and more signs point to the fact that the economy is beginning to grow.
Furthermore, the upper end of the market will more than likely follow the ups and downs of the Dow Jones. This said, if the Dow can break 11,000, we should expect the upper end of the market to follow suit with appropriate gains.

Interest Rate Forecast for the Next 90 Days:

Look for 30-year fixed rate mortgages to retest the 5.50% level for the first time since last summer and fixed rates staying below 6% though the first quarter of 2004. Mid-range ARM's (5-year) should continue to stay well below 5% through the first quarter of 2004 and the 6-month Libor interest only loans should continue to stay below 3.5% through the first quarter of 2004. Overall, look for rates to remain stable to slightly lower over the next 90 days, with this stability sparking increased home buying activity in the first quarter of this New Year.

How To Compare Low Interest Credit Card Offers And Choose The Best One?

2003-12-21T02:34:00.000-08:00

When it comes to comparing low interest credit card offers, there are several things that you must take into your account. Many companies these days try to attract consumers by boasting very low interest rates, but in most cases, there some ‘hidden catches’, which you get know about only when you read the fine prints thoroughly. Therefore, it is very important for you to know how to compare such offers by looking into many other variables as well.

Fixed Vs Variable Rate

While you are comparing low interest credit card offers, the first thing that you have to find out is whether the rates are fixed or variable. Though most companies charge a fixed rate, but you can also receive offers for low variable rates. A variable rate credit card is the one where the interest rate depends on the prime rate in the market. It means the rate may go up or down depending upon the fluctuations in the prime rate. On the other hand, fixed rates do not change. It means even if the prime rate goes up, you will still be charged the low fixed rate you have been offered. However, the credit card agreement usually also explains certain exceptions when even the fixed rate can change. For example, missing a payment may result in a higher rate.

Multiple Interest Rates

You are also advised to review the different low interest credit card offers thoroughly and find out if the company is charging different rates for different categories. For example, it is very common for companies these days to charge one rate for cash advances while other for balance transfer and a different one for purchases. So, make sure you compare the rates in all the categories.

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) For Purchases

Do not forget to compare the annual percentage rate charged by each card for purchases. You can go through the user agreement or other promotional materials published by the credit card companies to get detailed information about the same. Alternatively, you can also visit their official website to get details about how the different variables in the low interest credit card offers have been treated. If you are planning to use your card mainly to make payments for your purchases, the APR charged on purchases will obviously affect you the most. For example, if the Annual percentage rate is 12%, you will have to pay 1% of the total monthly outstanding balance in the form of interest every month. Even if a credit card is charging you a low rate on balance transfer and cash advance but a higher rate on purchases, it will definitely make no sense for you because it does not meet your specific requirements.

Fees For Balance Transfer And Cash Advance

In addition to the amount of interest, certain additional fees are usually also charged for balance transfer and cash advances. Therefore, in order to get a fair picture about the actual cost in these categories, you must compare those fees as well. It is not recommended to use a credit card to obtain easy cash advances because the rates and additional fee charged on credit card cash advances are usually very high. However, if you are not sure about it and are likely to use it for cash advances as well, you must compare the cost associated with the same thoroughly with each card. Besides that, it is also important for you to keep in mind that credit card balance transfer sometimes proves to be very helpful in managing your debts and finances. Therefore, you are advised to go for a card, where the interest rates for purchases as well as the balance transfer cost are considerably low.

Annual Fees

It is also possible that a company is offering a very low interest credit card, but they charge a hefty amount of annual fee, which can increase the actual cost. Therefore, while you are comparing other variables, you should also pay special attention to the amount of annual fee charged by different companies. Sometimes, a credit card with comparatively a little higher rate may prove to be a better choice if it is charging very low or zero annual fee.

Maximum Credit Limit

It is very important for you to understand that a high credit limit plays a very important role in improving your FICO score. 15% of your credit score depends on the credit utilization ratio, which is also commonly termed as debt to credit ratio. It refers to the amount of debt you are acquiring against the total credit limit available to you. You will see significant increase in your credit score if you maintain this credit utilization ratio to somewhere between 10% and 40%. Therefore, even if you need a credit card to make small purchases, it is always wise to go for a low interest credit card that offers you a high credit limit, but without adding extra cost.

Circumstances When The Rates Can Be Increased

While you are reviewing the fine prints, you should also visit the section in the agreement that explains all those circumstances when the company can raise the interest rate on your credit card. Some common circumstances when the rates are increased include spending more than the available credit limit and making late payments. Compare how the rates are likely to increase in each offer. The best offer for you is obviously the one that gives you more flexibility and charges low penalty.

Rewards And Incentives

Sometimes, a credit card with a little higher rate may make more financial sense for you provided its reward and incentive programs allow you to avail high amount of discounts. Therefore, while you are comparing interest rates, you must weigh the value of incentives and rewards as well. For example, many cards offer cash-back bonuses and frequent flier miles.

Always remember, interest rate is not the only factor to determine the actual cost associated with a credit card; there are several other variables as well, which must be taken into account. Overall, if you do an apple-to-apple comparison while keeping the above things in mind, it will definitely become very easy for you to choose the best low interest credit card.