3 Perfect Countries in Europe Nobody Talks About

Summary

In this video, Ray explores three often-overlooked European countries perfect for retirement—Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. While Spain, Portugal, Italy, and France often steal the spotlight, these hidden gems offer affordable living, rich history, and stunning landscapes. Serbia boasts a vibrant cultural scene and low-cost living, Romania enchants with its medieval castles and beautiful nature, and Bulgaria presents breathtaking coastal views and a stress-free lifestyle. Ray delves into the unique benefits of each country, including cost of living, healthcare, and visa options, encouraging viewers to consider these underrated destinations for their retirement plans.

Takeaways

• 😀 Serbia is an affordable European destination for retirees, offering a mix of vibrant cities like Belgrade and quiet towns like Novi Sad.
• 😀 Rent in Serbia is extremely affordable, with one-bedroom apartments starting at $350 in cities like Novi Sad, and up to $1,000 in Belgrade.
• 😀 Healthcare in Serbia is a blend of public and private systems, with doctor's visits costing as low as $30 and private health insurance ranging from $50 to $100 per month.
• 😀 Romania offers a beautiful and affordable living option for retirees, with stunning landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains and Bran Castle.
• 😀 Rent in Romania can range from $350 to $900, depending on the city, making it an affordable choice for retirees.
• 😀 Romania has a mix of public and private healthcare systems, with private insurance costing between $50 to $100 per month.
• 😀 Many expats can enter Romania on a business visa by setting up an LLC, which can eventually lead to permanent residency.
• 😀 Bulgaria stands out as the most affordable European country for retirees, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $1,200 per month for a comfortable lifestyle.
• 😀 Rent in Bulgaria is highly affordable, with apartments costing between $350 and $700 per month, even in cities like Sofia and Varna.
• 😀 Bulgaria has an accessible retirement visa program that requires proof of income and health insurance, making it a simple and cost-effective option for retirees.
• 😀 Despite being less well-known, countries like Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria offer a perfect mix of affordability, beauty, and a slower pace of life for retirees.

Q & A

What are the top three European countries for retiring that are often overlooked?

The top three European countries for retiring that are often overlooked are Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. These countries are less talked about compared to popular destinations like Spain, Portugal, and France.

Why are Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria often overlooked as retirement destinations?

These countries are overlooked due to past stigmas, misunderstandings, and a lack of media exposure. However, they offer affordability, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a slower pace of life, making them ideal for retirees.

What makes Serbia an attractive destination for retirees?

Serbia offers an affordable lifestyle, rich history, peaceful towns, and a vibrant capital, Belgrade. The cost of living is low, with affordable rent, utilities, groceries, and public transportation, making it a great option for retirees.

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Serbia?

In Belgrade, a centrally-located one-bedroom apartment can range from $550 to $1,000 per month. In smaller cities like Novi Sad and Niš, rent can be as low as $350 to $450 for the same apartment.

What is Serbia’s healthcare system like for retirees?

Serbia has a mix of public and private healthcare systems. Public healthcare is available to all residents, but many retirees and expats opt for private health insurance for more efficient care at affordable prices. A doctor's visit can cost as low as $30.

How can retirees obtain residency in Serbia?

Retirees can obtain temporary residency in Serbia by applying for a residence permit based on property ownership, retirement, or proof of income. There is no specific retirement visa, but retirees generally need an income of around €500 per month.

Why is Romania a great option for retirees?

Romania offers stunning landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains and medieval castles, as well as low living costs. Retirees can enjoy a high quality of life with affordable rent, dining, and healthcare.

What are the living costs for retirees in Romania?

Retirees can live comfortably in Romania for $1,200 to $1,400 per month. Rent in cities like Cluj-Napoca or Brașov averages between $350 to $800 per month, and dining out costs about $10 or less per meal.

How does Romania’s healthcare system compare to other European countries?

Romania offers both public and private healthcare systems. Public healthcare is inexpensive and accessible, but many expats prefer private insurance for quicker and higher-quality care. Private health insurance costs about $50 to $100 per month.

What is the retirement visa process for Romania?

Romania does not offer a traditional retirement visa. However, retirees can set up a company or LLC to apply for a long-stay visa under the business category. This route provides legal residency and can lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

What makes Bulgaria a top pick for retirees?

Bulgaria combines beautiful landscapes, a rich cultural history, and one of the lowest living costs in Europe. It offers various environments for retirees, from coastal cities to picturesque towns and a vibrant capital.

What are the typical costs of living for retirees in Bulgaria?

Retirees can live comfortably in Bulgaria for $1,000 to $1,200 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Plovdiv or Varna ranges from $350 to $700 per month, with meals at restaurants costing around $10 to $12.

How is healthcare in Bulgaria for retirees?

Healthcare in Bulgaria is affordable and generally good in urban centers. Public healthcare is available at a low cost, but private healthcare, offering better quality and faster service, is preferred by many expats. Private health insurance typically costs $50 to $100 per month.

How can retirees obtain residency in Bulgaria?

Retirees can apply for a Type D visa in Bulgaria by proving a monthly income of approximately €300, along with health insurance and proof of residence. This process can eventually lead to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.

Why is Bulgaria considered one of the best European countries for retirees?

Bulgaria stands out for its low living costs, excellent quality of life, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a stress-free retirement environment with affordable rent, healthcare, and overall living expenses.