Sri Lanka tops list of Asia’s most affordable retirement havens

Sri Lanka is described as one of the cheapest and most beautiful places to retire in Asia, according to insights from the Annual Global Retirement Index.

Retiring abroad continues to appeal to those seeking a high quality of life without the high costs associated with the US and other Western countries. According to the Annual Global Retirement Index, several Asian destinations stand out for offering exceptional value for money, combining affordable living, good healthcare, accessible transport, and rich lifestyles.

Among the most budget-friendly retirement havens identified are 1) Sri Lanka, 2) Vietnam, 3) Thailand, 4) Bali (Indonesia), and 5) Malaysia, with Sri Lanka emerging as the most affordable option overall.

Written by Roland Dalton, Sri Lanka was described as one of the cheapest and most beautiful places to retire in Asia. 

Retirees report living an “extravagantly comfortable” lifestyle for around $ 2,200 a month, while others manage a fulfilling standard of living for as little as $ 1,000 a month, including rent, meals, and leisure.

One retiree couple said their beachside villa costs just $ 385 per month, complete with a tropical garden and plunge pool, while utilities rarely exceed $ 50. Even more premium lifestyles remain affordable. In Kandy, for example, a three-bedroom colonial home with a full-time maid, full-time driver, and part-time gardener can cost about $ 2,800 per month all-inclusive.

“Eating out is outrageously affordable. A three-course meal with drinks at an international restaurant is about $ 50 for two, while local dishes cost as little as $ 2 per person. We regularly splurge on Sunday brunch at a five-star hotel in Colombo: free-flowing beer and champagne, with lobster, crab, oysters, and Australian steak for $ 40 per person. One of our favourite beachside seafood feasts—lobster, crab, prawns, fish, and oysters for two—costs just $ 35,” they said.

Groceries from modern supermarkets are on par with US prices, but local markets are where you save. A kilo of bananas is $ 0.50, a fresh fish for two $ 3.50, and a pineapple is just $ 0.20. “The trick is to shop like a local, make friends at the markets, go with them, and always negotiate prices. It adds up over time,” they added.

Transportation is another cost-saver. A four-hour taxi ride is $ 70, while a two-hour train journey costs only $ 1. A three-mile tuk-tuk ride is about $ 2, just be sure to agree on the fare first and offer half the initial price quoted. Domestic flights and car rentals are cheap, though fuel costs 20% more than in the US.

Everyday comforts are inexpensive too: a massage is under $ 10 an hour, a haircut is $ 2, and a relaxing wet shave at a traditional barber is $ 1.50. Spa treatments and beauty services are widely available and affordable. And if you’re into outdoor sports, learning surfing, kitesurfing, or spearfishing costs under $ 10 an hour.

“Healthcare in Colombo’s private hospitals is solid, with modern facilities. Medical care outside the capital is more basic, but serviceable. A big bonus: Sri Lanka has one of the easiest and cheapest retirement visa requirements in Asia.”

With 13 UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) heritage sites, pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and low prices, Sri Lanka is a place where you can live richly without spending a fortune.

(Source: https://internationalliving.com/the-cheapest-places-in-the-world-to-live/)