Retire in Belize
A Central American paradise that offers beaches, beauty and a fast track to residency status.
| From left: The Mayan site of Cerros on Corozal Bay; a boat in Corozal. — Tony Rath Photography |
Let’s fast-forward to Belize’s unique appeal to U.S. retirees: It's the only south-of-the-border country whose official language is English. Until 1973 it was called British Honduras, and was a crown colony of the U.K.; it was granted full independence in 1981 (although Queen Elizabeth II is still head of state).
Another goodie: It’s catching up to Panama and Costa Rica's retiree perks. Its Qualified Retired Persons program, known as the QRP, offers benefits and a fast track to residency status.