Thinking about investing in a second home? Retiring or going expat? Why not consider six spectacular places to live in Latin America?

Ingrid Khadijah

Why Should You Choose a Place to Live in Latin America?

For all the same simple reasons full-time expats and retirees flock to this part of the world. Simpler life. Tropical climate. Azure waters and gorgeous beaches. Jungle and mountains of unparalleled biodiversity. And growing numbers of flights from around the world.

You must be thinking, “Aside from the obvious, what else lures real estate investors to Latin America?”

Rich cultural heritage, pure beauty of nature, and simple lifestyle are truly magnificent. But Panama, Belize, Honduras, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico have other ideal investment factors.

Why Do Investors Love Latin America?

These top emerging markets have healthy, growing economies. Construction and reconstruction are on the rise. Tourism, retirees, and expat numbers are steadily increasing. As a result, there are many fresh business opportunities. Generally speaking, there’s a robust need for rental properties.

Infrastructure improvements are a top priority. Internet access is typically a given. World-class hospitals and other modern medical facilities are available. Public transportation is solid.

New international airports are being built. Airline routes are growing. And visas and passports are easy to obtain.

Home prices are a real bargain. You can get a bigger house, a great location, and better views for so much less money compared to most other countries. You can find a modern two-story 3-bedroom/3-bath home with high-end finishes for $115,000.

The costs of living are low. In many places, a mere $2.50 will buy dinner at a local restaurant, and a couple can live really well on less than $2,000 per month.

Taxes, insurance, and utilities are low. And retiree incentives for expats are quite excellent.

So check out these six spectacular places to live in the Latin Tropics.

Cariberry

1. Ambergris Caye, Belize

“Best island in the world!” That’s what Trip Advisor readers said two years in a row. Ambergris Caye strikes a perfect balance between quaint and modern. High-rise buildings and traffic lights are non-existent. Locals, Latin immigrants, and expats from all over the globe traverse the island’s sandy roads barefoot or in a golf cart.

You’ll love exploring the diverse ecosystems around the island. From palm-lined beaches to mangroves, jungles, and reefs, you’ll never run out of things to do. Ambergris Caye is situated less than a mile from the second largest barrier reef in the world (Belize Barrier Reef). And one of the world’s top diving sites (Great Blue Hole). Scuba diving and snorkeling can’t get any better.

Can you imagine yourself sailing to the nearby cayes? Caye Caulker is a popular neighboring destination.

John Colby

2. Roatán, Honduras

Lonely Planet termed Roatán “pitch perfect.” The well-developed tropical setting offers an active lifestyle in a tranquil setting. Picture thirty miles of Carribean paradise with its own international airport, Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport. Take your guests for a swim with the dolphins and sea turtles in Roatán’s warm Carribean waters.

Go sport fishing or kayaking. Explore shipwrecks, seawalls and Mayan artifacts. Scuba dive and snorkel in the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. And ferry to the mainland port of La Cieba in only an hour.

Take your land lover guests zip lining or ATV riding through the jungle.

Casey

3. Cuenca, Ecuador

Expats of all ages and from around the globe flock to Cuenca for its beautiful Andes mountain location. They’re lured there by Cuenca’s natural beauty, captivating colonial architecture, and 70-degree temperatures year-round.

Modern facilities and solid infrastructure make living here a charm. Among the breathtaking skylines, you’ll have the modern conveniences of pedestrian walkways, bike paths, underground parking facilities, and an excellent light-rail system.

State-of-the-art medical facilities combined with highly qualified medical professionals are added bonuses. And shopping malls, grocery and hardware stores, restaurants, and bars are plentiful in Cuenca.

Viva Tropical

4. Boca Chica, Panama

The Boca Chica economy is about to explode. Expansion at Enrique Malek International Airport (in David, Panama) will, for the first time, receive flights from major airlines around the world. A scenic 30-minute drive from the airport lands you in the serene little fishing village of Boca Chica. Picture rolling hills and secluded beaches. Sapphire waters and “emerald islands.”  A so-called secret “tropical fantasy!”

How cool would it be to take a 10-minute boat ride to your home on Boca Chica Island? You’ll feel like you’re hours away from civilization. And you might even forget what day it is. But the truth is, it’s incredibly easy to get to.

There are no tourist traps on Boca Chica Island. Just unspoiled prehistoric nature.  A place where locals and like-minded expats can still own a piece of heaven for a bargain.

Viva Tropical

5. Nosara, Costa Rica

Lonely Planet compared Nosara with Malibu and Oahu’s North Shore. Nosara’s surf-friendly beaches are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica. Imagine dramatic rocky cliffs, tropical palm trees, and big expansive sand shores.

Internationally-recognized Nosara Yoga Institute made Nosara a popular travel destination with an enthusiastic health-conscious culture. Health food stores and organic markets are plentiful.

International schools with excellent academic and cultural programs make it ideal for raising a family.

Sean Savage

6. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico:

San Miguel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This interior city emerged from agriculture and industry to tourism and expat commerce. Although it has no beaches or blue waters, visitors fall in love with San Miguel’s cobblestone streets, rich history, and diverse culture.

The preserved colonial and Spanish architecture is truly breathtaking. And the “eternal spring” climate, combined with moderate costs of living and walkability, seals the deal.

You’ll enjoy roaming the vibrant art community and eclectic shopping venues.

Need you look further than these six spectacular places to live in Latin America?

Latin America provides an ideal lifestyle and perfect conditions for second-home investors, retirees and expats. Property bargains, benefits and amenities make your transition easy.

Take a trip down to see for yourself.