Margaret is a member of the Marigold Lifestyle global community. She grew up in the US and, on retirement, decided to relocate to a country where the cost of living was less, and she could spend her days living life to the fullest. She chose Thailand (Koh Samui to be exact), and now, after a year of enjoying the island life, she's about to relocate yet again, to mainland Thailand, to explore more of the country and all that it has to offer.

I originally hailed from the Northern Territory in Australia. After considering various destinations for relocation, I chose Morocco; specifically, the coastal town of Essaouira.  My decision to settle in Essaouira was deeply personal. I had previously moved there to be with a Moroccan love interest and fell in love with the place and its people. This profound connection to Essaouira made it an ideal choice for relocation.

Mora was a teen mum. She put herself through college so that she could provide for her son, and she qualified as a nurse. Her son is now in his early 30s and doing well. As for Mora, her husband passed., then, after decades of serving as a nurse, she was suddenly laid off! This is Mora’s story…

For those looking to start a new chapter abroad, Spain and Portugal frequently top the list of dream destinations. These two Iberian neighbors offer beautiful landscapes, rich cultures, warm climates, and appealing affordability. But when it comes to choosing between the two, how do you decide? Let’s break it down, woman to woman, and explore the pros and cons of relocating to Spain versus Portugal.

Retiring abroad can be a beautiful, life-changing decision, especially for a single woman looking to embrace a fresh chapter. With countless appealing destinations worldwide, the process of choosing the right country to retire to involves thoughtful consideration of lifestyle, finances, healthcare, community, and personal safety. Here’s a friendly guide to help you evaluate your options and find the perfect place to call home.

Decades ago, Dawn relocated from the United Kingdom to ‘the Lucky Country’, Australia. There, she worked in the disability sector until 2024, when she opted for an early retirement.

It's no surprise that the cost of living crisis has many retirees considering an overseas move. It’s true that significant price increases have also hit developing nations, making housing, food and transport a lot more costly than pre-pandemic. Despite this, some countries still offer better bang for the buck and - sometimes - a more peaceful and dignified existence for retirees.

Ever dreamed of retiring abroad? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the "passive income" financial requirements for retirement visas in various countries. You might be surprised by both the low and high thresholds some nations set. Whether you're eyeing a cozy spot in the sun or a vibrant cityscape, our list will help you understand what you need to secure your retirement dream.

Thinking about retirement in Panama? While its famous canal often steals the spotlight, Panama is also a sunny paradise with a friendly vibe, a low cost of living, and a fantastic lifestyle for those looking to make the most of their retirement years. For many women, Panama’s easy-going pace and affordable living make it a perfect place to stretch retirement savings a bit further, all while enjoying the warm climate and welcoming culture.

Donna (age 64), relocated from the United States to Panama in 1984, after marrying her Panamanian husband. They raised two children and lived many happy years together. In 2020 they separated and in 2021, mutually agreed to divorce. But Donna remained in Panama! 

Fast forward to 2024, and I met Donna in Portugal. I was astounded by the strength of the woman, and her career history. The following interview offers fascinating insight into what drives this lady from South Dakota.

Portugal’s sunny climate, affordable living, and welcoming atmosphere make it a top destination for retirees, especially for women looking for a safe and vibrant place to live. Whether you want to immerse yourself in culture or enjoy peaceful coastal living, Portugal offers a variety of options. We’ve pulled together some high-level insights for women considering relocating.

Mary Ann is a rather remarkable woman. A Pilates teacher, originally from the States, she relocated to Cambodia in2022. When I last caught up with her in Siem Reap, she appeared to be very content with her new home. But then suddenly; up she popped in Vietnam! Naturally, I needed to know the goss behind the big move.

Never heard of Laos? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Laos is a hidden gem that some of us would rather keep secret. It’s a beautiful country filled with a rich cultural heritage, charming towns, and warm-hearted people who make a living working the land.

Laos is famous for its dramatic limestone scenery, ethnic villages, and untamed nature. It's an adventure lover’s Nirvana. Of the four main centers - Vientiane (the capital), Luang Prabang (the jewel), Vang Vieng, and Pakse - Luang Prabang is the favorite to visit and to live. With French colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and pavement cafe life, the Heritage Listed town is incredibly picturesque and serene.

Dealing with the belongings of a parent who has passed away or is transitioning to a retirement home can be an emotional and challenging process. The items in their home often carry significant sentimental value, making decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard even more difficult. However, with a thoughtful approach, you can manage this task with compassion and efficiency. Here’s a practical guide on how to handle your parent’s belongings during such transitions.

Retirement is no longer just a time to settle down; for many women, it’s an opportunity to embark on a new adventure. As the cost of living rises and the allure of new experiences grows, more retirees are looking beyond their borders for affordable and exciting places to spend their golden years. Overseas retirement communities offer not only a lower cost of living but also a vibrant social scene and a supportive network of fellow expats. Here are some of the most appealing destinations for women seeking adventure and affordability in their retirement.

Relocating to a new city or country is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The right destination can profoundly impact your lifestyle, career, and overall happiness. To make an informed choice, it’s essential to evaluate various factors that can affect your relocation experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right destination based on job opportunities, cost of living, climate, and quality of life.