We’ve all been through a stormy 2008/2009. Things seem to be settling down but the future still feels uncertain to many. It’s a good time to consider your options, reflect on your retirement dreams and even consider broadening your perspective beyond US shores. In fact, the one bright spot for Nicaragua (and other countries in Central America for that matter) has been a growing number of retirees and other investors considering a life abroad. In this article we look behind this trend and consider why this may be the case.
As people consider their retirement plans, some will find that their funds will not stretch as far as they had originally thought. A prudent move is to consider moving to a country with a lower cost of living. Nicaragua stands out in this regard. It has the lowest cost of living in Central America. You can live comfortably while eating out, traveling and visiting attractions for well under $1000 a month. And that includes a full-time maid!
Nicaragua is beautiful. The volcanoes tower above the lakes and the jagged headlands point far out to see. Retirees and investors are charmed by the colonial town of Granada and captivated by the San Juan del Sur sunsets. Best of all, the real estate in Nicaragua is cheaper than elsewhere in the region according to surveys carried out by RevealRealEstate.com.
The Tourism Board is pulling out all the stops to woo investors. They’ve campaigned successfully for better roads to main tourism spots, improved retirement incentives (Nicaragua’s program ranks with the top programs in the region) and for better port facilities at San Juan del Sur for port visitors.
Visitors enjoy the company of friendly locals. It’s a country with a warm heart, rich in culture where ‘everyone’ is a poet. There is also a growing community of expatriates – adventurous people each with a great story to tell. And in the capital city and other main towns you’ll find world-class restaurants, shopping centers and brand names that you’re familiar with at home.
It’s no surprise that Nicaragua is attracting a growing segment of lifestyle buyers who are looking for a cheap, tax-friendly place to retire and embark on a new life.
