Retiring in These 4 European-Friendly Places Comes with Benefits and Respect

Editor’s Note: This story appeared on Live and Invest Overseas.

Retired Americans who want to move overseas often wonder how they will be viewed in their new home abroad.

I have recently achieved a high position myself in many countries, and from my understanding of the great mystery to my recent experience, I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about as a senior moving overseas.

In fact, it’s just the opposite.

You will find that as an adult in many places around the world, you will be welcomed with favorable policies, discounts, priority lines, and special visa allowances, as well as being treated with more respect every day.

The United States has a unique perspective on age. Youth is equated with the importance of society and is often seen as the most important thing a person can bring to the table.

There’s a reason it’s made illegal to discriminate against those over 40 in the hiring process in the States – because those below that mark are often given social exclusion.

However, employers may have internal policies that prevent those over a certain age from being employed.

The American Psychological Association goes so far as to say that “ageism is one of the last things that is acceptable in society.”

But that shouldn’t be the case. Look across the US border to Europe, and you may be surprised at the differences in the ways in which the elderly are viewed.

With long-established welfare systems that consider caring for its citizens a natural right, Europe has many safety nets for the elderly.

In addition, children are often taught to respect adults. Rituals and practices are very important, especially in Northern Europe, and intergenerational family involvement dominates in the south.

You will see many adults in Europe, living a busy and social life, especially in the Mediterranean area, where the culture is similar to that of Latin America in terms of family values.

In Greece, you may also be called geronda or the gerontissa – literally, an old man or old woman. Rather than being an insult, this is a word of love and respect.

Although there are no senior-specific accommodation programs here, there are great discounts to be had in addition to cultural benefits. These discounts are available to all EU citizens, regardless of which country they call home.

Even if you’re just a tourist in Europe, many discounts apply, including a 10% Eurail discount for those aged 60 and over.

Here are four adult-friendly places I recommend on the Continent.

In Portugal

Portugal offers a great climate, a wealth of history, great entertainment options, vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and beautiful beaches.

Home to more than 700,000 expats, of which a reported 7,000 are Americans, the country is one of the most popular expat lifestyle options in Europe.

All over Europe, there are important seats for the elderly and those with physical disabilities in public transport and often in government buildings, and Portugal is no exception.

In 2016, Portugal’s parliament passed a law that made essential work for people aged 65 and over (as well as people with disabilities or disabilities) mandatory among all public and private organizations that provide the public with a personal service.

In banks, supermarkets, hospitals, and other places, people (including tourists visiting Portugal) must stop coming first, and prioritize to comply with this law. Non-compliance is punishable by a fine of up to 1,000 euros.

Social support that helps older people meet their basic needs and maintain a good standard of living is organized by the government. In community centers, for example, older people can participate in social, recreational, and cultural activities.

On top of this, discounts of 25% to 50% are available for those aged 65 and over on entertainment and transport costs, and these may be available even if you are not a resident. It never hurts to ask.

Spain

Home to more expatriates than any other country in Europe, Brits have been coming to Spain for centuries, while American expats number around 36,000.

As in Portugal, you will get priority seats on public transport for seniors, and from the age of 65, you are eligible for discounts on transport and entertainment.

There is a retiree card (carnet de pensionista o jubilado) which easily gets you a big discount and you can’t claim if you’re under 65 if you can prove you’re retired. Otherwise, just showing your ID to prove your age is enough.

Some institutions offer discounts before the age of 60, so be sure to check the limits for each person. Renfe, for example, the national train system, offers a 25% to 40% discount on ticket prices for those aged 60 and over (with a 6-euro purchase Tarjeta Dorada card, which, by all accounts, pays for itself within a trip or two).

Supermarkets and food retailers of all types will deduct IVA (sales tax) on purchases made by senior citizens. Gyms offer higher rates, as do some phone and internet companies.

When it comes to hotels and other businesses, be sure to ask if there is a discount offered, as some companies offer special rates at their discretion. I have seen hotels and travel companies offer a 30% discount if I am 55 years old.

Without a doubt, Spain is one of the most generous countries when it comes to offering great discounts, so even if there is no special price listed, be sure to ask if it is offered.

Occasionally, this may be limited to EU citizens, but Spain has the best history of extending higher prices to those of all nationalities, although you may find that if you are not an EU citizen, a discount is given at the discretion of the ticket office.

France

No one takes retirement and its benefits more seriously than the French, and they protest regularly to protect their retirement rights.

Traditionally, children are trained to respect their elders in France, too the politeness (rituals) are important to society.

Across the country, retirees enjoy their free time from age 60 or 61 and get 30% to 50% discounts on transportation, cheap tickets to movies, theaters, museums and monuments.

With a registration fee of 44 euros (or 54 euros for couples), the Reduc-Seniors card gives access to a range of discounts from 5% to 52% off everything from entertainment and spas to shops, hotels, and travel for those aged 55 and over.

Slovenia

Little-known Slovenia is a rare gem that shares the Adriatic Sea with Italy at a fraction of the cost.

Those aged 65 and over, or those who can show they are retired, are offered free bus and train rides nationally, with deep discounts offered when crossing the border.

Many hotels, travel companies, and tour operators also offer higher discounts to EU residents over the age of 65.

Fun also comes with discounts, up to 50% off at many tourist sites and museums.