With the developments in travel and technology, moving abroad is cheaper and less stressful than ever before.  As you near retirement age, have you considered spending your work-free years overseas? With the freedom that comes with retirement, why not spend your time exploring new surroundings and soaking up the sun.

With this question in mind, meqasa, the global real estate marketplace, has explored the top countries to retire abroad.]

1. Aqaba, Jordan

Spend your retirement in this stunning coastal city, and enjoy the city’s beach resorts, eye-catching architecture, local baths and relaxed vibe. Transport to nearby Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, leave regularly and cost very little, giving you the opportunity to explore the Rose City. Jordan has a strong healthcare system, with physicians proficient in English for those unable to converse in Arabic. The affordable property prices in Aqaba make this an increasingly desirable retirement spot.

2. Karachi, Pakistan

As Pakistan’s largest and most populated metropolitan city, Karachi may not have previously been on your list of places to consider for retirement. However, taking into account the city’s desirable location on the Arabian Sea coastline, retirees can make the most of both the city life and the beautiful, relaxing beaches, including Hawke’s Bay Beach, and Paradise Point. Additionally, spend your days exploring the many parks, museums and historical buildings that Karachi has to offer. The stunning Hub Lake, a mere 56 kilometers north of the city, is home to incredible wildlife, and offers the opportunity to fish, picnic and swim away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. Bunaken Island, Indonesia

Located at the northern tip of the island of Sulawesi, Bunaken is only 8㎢ and is part of Bunaken National Marine Park, which covers an expanse of 890.65㎢.

The National Park is renowned for its clear waters, coral, and an amazing range of fish, whilst Bunaken itself is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, boasting over 70 types of coral.

Whilst the island is famous for its diving and snorkeling, you can also spend your time fishing, exploring the secluded coves, and enjoying the stunning beaches.

4. Medellín, Colombia

If you want to spend your retirement in a city, Colombia’s Medellín is the place for you.

The Wall Street Journal’s Innovative City of the Year 2013 has a lot to offer as a retirement choice.

There are an abundance of landmarks to visit, including the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, and Los Alumbrados, the famous Christmas lights that light up the city between December and January.

Surrounded by eight smaller towns and with frequent international and domestic flights available, there is plenty of opportunity for weekend trips and longer vacations to explore the surrounding areas.

The solid infrastructure and economy, together with the reliable Internet to communicate with your family and friends in other locations, make Colombia a great place to settle down.

5. Nakuru County, Kenya

If you’re looking to spend your retirement in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, choose Nakuru County, in the Southern Rift Valley of Kenya.

In the capital and largest town of Nakuru, you can find the Lake Nakuru National Park, home to thousands of pink flamingos, as well as various other birds and wildlife.

Other sites include an extinct volcano, boasting stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Nakuru also has numerous healthcare facilities on offer for its residents and is well connected to explore the rest of Kenya.

6. Abidjan, Ivory Coast

Why not retire to the former capital of the Ivory Coast, Abidjan? The country’s largest city is home to both a lively commercial district – the Plateau – and a more traditional, older area – Treichville – both of which boast bars, restaurants, and markets, as well as museums, monuments and theaters.

The city has a multitude of health centers, pharmacies and specialist clinics to cater to any health needs, whilst real estate prices are reasonable and affordable.

7. Bandarawela, Sri Lanka

Relocate to Bandarawela and spend your Sundays exploring the town’s lively markets. The picturesque town is home to two stunning waterfalls, the Rwanda Ella and Diyaluma, as well as tea plantations.

Thanks to its beautiful views and cool, calm climate, Bandarawela is the perfect location to relax. Less than 200 kilometers from the capital cities of Colombo and Kandy, Bandarawela is well connected to explore the rest of the Island.

8. Tangier, Morocco

Morocco has many beautiful cities on offer, such as Marrakesh and Casablanca, however with its mixture of old, traditional architecture and new, modern city, Tangier is a great choice for retirement.

The low cost of living, together with the agreeable climate, stable government and rich culture, are all prime reasons to relocate to Tangier. Buying or renting property is a simple process in Tangier, with plenty of affordable real estate on offer.

What’s more, the quality of medical care is high, and the food is fresh, often organic, and healthy. And if you fancy escaping the city for a break, Spain is just a short ferry ride away.

9. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Follow the winding alleyways, and get lost in the beauty of Zanzibar.

If its white sandy beaches, picturesque palm trees, and sparkling blue waters don’t make it an ideal location, its tropical forests, mouth-watering cuisine, and remote villages certainly do. 

In addition, property prices and plots of land on the largest of the Spice Islands are affordable, both on the beach and further inland.

There is little need for transport on the island, however, it is well connected should you want to explore further afield.

10. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Located on the Pacific Ocean’s striking Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is a stunning beach resort city. With stretches of white beaches and sparkling water, as well as lush mountains, quaint cobbled streets and chic shops, Vallarta has it all for those looking for a more relaxing way of life.

The city brings together the old and the new, combining traditional Mexican crafts, cuisines, and architecture with modern restaurants and cafes. What’s more, foreigners are easily able to own real estate with the backing of a local bank, and housing varies from inexpensive and affordable condos on the beach to the more affluent, luxurious properties, depending on your price range.