RETIRE TO SPAIN – A NEW COUNTRY FOR A NEW YEAR!

• Spain tops list of favourite retirement destinations for over 50s (Retirement Advantage)
• Regular golf increases life expectancy by 5 years (Karolinska Institutet)
• The ideal Spanish golf properties from just €155k (Taylor Wimpey España)

Spain is the country of choice for UK citizens approaching their retirement, according to a new survey by Retirement Advantage, with 24% of those questioned listing the country as their favoured European destination when considering a move overseas.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, is familiar with the dream of retiring to Spain – it’s one that prompts many of his clients to purchase the perfect apartment or townhouse, ready to move to fulltime as soon as they’ve thanked their colleagues for their retirement gift. He comments,

“Spain has a lot to offer expats of all ages, but there’s something about the warmth of year-round sunshine that particularly appeals to those approaching retirement age. The comparatively low cost of living that Spain offers is also a draw to those on a limited income, such as a pension. Spain also offers a wealth of pursuits for those with free time on their hands. From solitary strolls along the beach to calm the mind and gently tone the body to social events in the local community, life in Spain can be wonderful for those of retirement age.”

Golf is a popular sport with retirees and Taylor Wimpey España offers the perfect property for those who like spending time on the fairways. Brisas de Alenda Golf, near Elche, provides beautiful, three bedroom townhouses priced from just €155,000. The spacious properties and generously sized communal pool benefit from the tranquillity of the neighbouring golf course, while lively beachfront life is just 15 minutes away, offering those approaching retirement the perfect balance.

The health benefits of golf are well established. According to a study by the Rose Center for Health and Sports Sciences, a golfer who walks and carries his own bag will burn 721 calories during one round and burning 2,500 calories per week can significantly reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes, according to the study. Meanwhile a study conducted by Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet has found that the death rate for golfers is a substantial 40% lower than for other people who are of the same age, gender and socioeconomic status. The figures show that regular golfers can enjoy a five year increase to their life expectancy, compared with non-golfers, making this the perfect pastime for those of retirement age, looking to remain fit and healthy.

For those looking to ditch the UK winter weather immediately and pick up a new property for the New Year, the key-ready homes at La Recoleta III are ideal. Just metres from the beach, the two bedroom apartments are set in immaculate gardens with a lovely outdoor pool. Prices start at €165,000 and those who buy before the end of 2015 can enjoy a full furniture pack at no extra cost.

The offer is perfect for retirees who plan to keep on their home in the UK as a rental property to top up their pension income. They can avoid the hassle and expense of transporting bulky items of furniture to Spain and can instead walk into a tastefully furnished new home that allows them to start the new chapter of their lives in style, while leaving their old furniture to be used by their tenants in the UK.

Marc Pritchard concludes, “From social activities to its wonderful food, Spain is packed with benefits that create a welcoming and cost-effective life for retirees. The fact that it is so close to the UK is also perfect for those looking to make a permanent move, as family and friends are still near enough that regular visits can take place frequently and with minimal cost.”