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3 places you can live the high life on less than 40K

Retire in style. - by Laura Barry
  • 08 Aug 2018

If you want to make the move and work in another country, or you’re looking for a tropical location to see out your retirement, then we have good news for you.  A new report from International Living has discovered the best three places Aussies can retire and live out their days in the lap of luxury on a very humble budget of AU$40K a year.

Penang, Malaysia

city scape at dusk
Getty

The island of Penang off the coast of Malaysia is home to 1.6 million people. Though the cost of living is affordable here, the lifestyle is comfortable and comparable to Australia. InternationalLiving.com/au reports that a couple can live well on a monthly budget of $2,500, but if you want to splurge and push your spend to $3,300, you can live in luxury. Rent in a modern high-rise with a pool, gym and 24-hour security will cost around $1,000 a month. Penang is known for being a foodie location, a national park for hiking, great shopping, and their largest city, George Town, is home to eclectic architecture.

The Algarve, Portugal

city by the sea boats on water
Getty

The southern region of Portugal known as the Algarve is home to superior beaches, ancient architecture, gourmet seafood and inexpensive wines. A couple can comfortable live off $2,660 a month or stretch to $3190 to live in luxury. Local activities in this region include golfing, horseback riding, hiking and biking.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Pagoda on mountain top
Getty

A popular destination for tourists and expats, the northern city of Chiang Mai in Thailand is filled with hundreds of golden temples, international restaurants, stunning countryside and a year-round tropical climate. One of the cultural hubs of Thailand, this city offers all the amenities of a big university city, but at small town prices. Two people can live comfortably in Chiang Mai on a monthly budget of $2,650. Allow for a monthly spend of $3,100 in Chiang Mai and you can enjoy luxuries only the wealthy can afford back in Australia, like travel, a house keeper and regular massages.

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Laura Barry
Laura Barry
Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.

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