Welcome to the International Living mailbag, your repository of questions posed to our expert expats by your fellow subscribers.
We’ve spent over 40 years digging deep on the best places in the world to retire. In that time, our editors, correspondents, and longtime contributors have built up a wealth of expertise.
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Take a look below at the questions we’ve been asked, and the expert responses.
And remember, if you’ve got a question you’d like answered, simply send it to mailbag@internationalliving.com and you could see it featured right here.
Michael M. Says: As a proud owner of a newly granted 2nd passport (U.S. and Ireland), I was wondering what it entitles me to? Can I vote, get full healthcare, and own property in Ireland or other parts of the European Union? Are there specific benefits for seniors? IL Chief Global Diversification Expert Ted Read more...: What Benefits Does a Second EU Passport Provide?
Cheryl B. Says: What’s the alternative healing scene like in Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Cheryl, Panama has always had its share of alternative medicine practitioners. As foreigners continue to move here in search of healthier lifestyles, the industry continues to grow. You’ll find all kinds of therapies and treatments available Read more...: What’s the Alternative Healing Scene like in Panama?
Lori S. Says: Are some areas better than others to live year-round in Costa Rica with regard to the best tropical beach weather? IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Bottone Says: Hi Lori, You’re speaking my language! I’m a hot tropical beach girl and love this weather year-round. Yes, I know it can be muggy, Read more...: What Areas get the Best Year-Round Weather in Costa Rica?
Candice M. Says: What’s the cost of living in Bali, Indonesia? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Candice, The cost of living in Bali can vary, depending on the lifestyle you choose. A couple can live like royalty in most towns for $1,900. If you choose to live right by the beach in a Read more...: What’s the Cost of Living in Bali?
Rob A. Says: Will I lose access to my Canadian healthcare if I spend half the year abroad? IL Contributor Steven LePoidevin Writes: In order to qualify for provincial health insurance in Canada, you must be considered a permanent resident of that province. Several provinces require a minimum number of residency days in any Read more...: Do I Lose Canadian Healthcare if I Move Abroad Part-Time?
Arnold C. Says: How would I go about starting my own business in Costa Rica? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Arnold, To start a business in Costa Rica you must register with the Tax Department to get your taxpayer identification. You also need a Municipal Business License from the local government where Read more...: How Do I Start a Business in Costa Rica?
Joel M. Says: What can you tell me about assisted living facilities in Spain? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Joel, Families in Spain traditionally cared for elders at home, so assisted living facilities are a relatively recent development. However, since most women are now working and Spain’s population is aging, senior care Read more...: Are There Good Assisted Living Facilities in Spain?
Lucy G. Says: Is there an English-speaking agency that can help me find a home to rent in France? IL France Correspondent Tuula Rampont Says: Hi Lucy, French real estate agents (immobiliers) are strictly regulated. They must be in possession of what’s called a carte professionelle, which can be issued only by the agent’s Read more...: Who Can Help Me Find a Rental in France?
Will M. Says: I like Ecuador as my destination, but I have a medical condition. Where in the country has the best healthcare? IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says: Hi Will, One of the great perks for foreign residents living in Ecuador is high-quality, low-cost healthcare. Bloomberg has frequently rated Ecuador above the U.S. Read more...: Where in Ecuador Has the Best Healthcare?
Natalie W. Says: What qualifications do I need to teach English in Mexico legally? Earn-with-English Online Masterclass Creator Kary Vannice Says: Hi Natalie, There are two parts to answering this question. The first is to consider it from a work visa standpoint and the second is to consider the qualifications the employer requires. Let’s Read more...: What Qualifications Do I Need to Teach English in Mexico?