Retire in Guatemala

"Retirement in Antigua is fantastic. Lots of expats to meet and compare notes and recommendations. Relatively safe, lots of shops, foods, and a live where tourists visit BUT it has the locals living there and adds to the natural surroundings. So much to do, a drive to the coast or Guat city or Lake Atitlan , but in the highlands with cooler weather, and history and culture surrounds you," said a retiree who moved to Guatemala.

"Life for a retiree in Guatemala and its surroundings can be quite enjoyable. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from the United States and Europe living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the ancient Mayan ruins, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets. There is also plenty of recreation to be had, from hiking in the mountains to exploring the many lakes and rivers. For those looking for nightlife, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as live music and dancing," said one retiree in Guatemala.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Guatemala is the language barrier. Although Spanish is the official language, many people in Guatemala also speak indigenous languages, which can make it difficult for non-native speakers to communicate. Additionally, the cost of living in Guatemala is relatively low, but the quality of life may not be as high as in other countries. Healthcare can also be a challenge, as the public healthcare system is not as well-developed as in other countries. Finally, the infrastructure in Guatemala is not as advanced as in other countries, which can make it difficult to access certain services," explained one retiree living in Guatemala.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Guatemala is the opportunity to experience the country's rich culture and history. From the ancient Mayan ruins to the vibrant colonial cities, there is something for everyone to explore. The cost of living in Guatemala is also much lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, the country is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, from the lush jungles of the Petén to the stunning beaches of the Pacific Coast. Finally, the people of Guatemala are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it a great place to make new friends and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle," explained a retiree in Guatemala.

"Healthcare services in Guatemala are generally limited and of low quality. Access to healthcare is often difficult for many people, especially those living in rural areas. The public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed, and many people rely on private healthcare providers for their medical needs. The country also has a high rate of maternal and infant mortality, and a lack of access to basic medical supplies and equipment. Despite these challenges, there are some initiatives in place to improve healthcare services in Guatemala, such as the introduction of a national health insurance system and the expansion of public health services," said one retiree in Guatemala.

"Health care is for the most part affordable in Guatemala. I have had major surgery here and it was very good and far below the cost of a co-pay in the US. But one must shop around and ask other people for recommendations. Some places exploit older patients and do unnecessary treatments. But there are lots of really good doctors here. One suggestion: look for a doctor who actually listens to you and respects your opinions. The younger ones often have a US attitude that is not helpful," commented one retiree living in Guatemala.

"Esquipulas is a small,friendly,laid back city. Most people will say "Hi" to you on the street. There are only 5 expats here, and we don`t have a club. But, we do help each other when asked. It's a fairly safe place, unlike the Capitol. You can walk down the street at 2AM in the morning without fearing for your life," explained one retiree living in Esquipulas.

"The best thing a new-comer should do is take a 10-15 ride to Antigua there you can meet all the expats you want," said one retiree in living in Cuidad Vieja, Guatemala.

"Antigua is wonderful. social opportunities as little or as much as you like. My neighborhood and areas in the area, seem to attract a lot of full-time expats as opposed to just short term visitors. We live in Panorama on the outskirts 10-15 minute walk to town. We love the connectivity with the expats from US, Canada, Europe, and other areas. Tourists in town, or just meet people at events, coffee shops or while shopping," said one retiree in living in Guatemala.

"Lives revolve around families and work. In the case of retired expats, we spend our time doing what we want," explained a retiree in Esquipulas.

"It is a great country to live in provided you have a certain income and are willing to accept the restrictions the insecurity imposes," said one retiree in living in Guatemala-City, Guatemala.

"Expats should research the cost of living in Guatemala before retiring there, as it may be significantly lower than their home country. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Guatemala, as it may not be as comprehensive as what they are used to. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, it is important to research the safety and security situation in Guatemala, as crime rates can be high in certain areas. Finally, expats should consider the availability of activities and amenities in the area they plan to retire in, as some areas may be more remote than others," explained a retiree in Guatemala.

"In Guatemala, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as picnicking, hiking, and bird watching. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. Sports complexes are also available, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, Guatemala is home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters," explained one retiree living in Guatemala.

"This is rustic living. There is incredible hiking around the lake and up the sides of volcanoes. Swimming in the beautiful lake. Walking to do your shopping. There are no golf courses or tennis clubs," said one member in Lake Atitlan.

"Most of the staples are purchased in each villages fresh market. The Mayans are farmers and it is a joy to have access to fresh picked veggies and fruits. Panajachel has the widest selection from "stores". There is a Dispensa Familiar (Walmart owned) which is a decent all-things a basic grocery store would have. Chalo's and Sandra's both carry imported goods so you can always get that back home fix (bring money)," explained one retiree living in Lake Atitlan.

"People living in Guatemala typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at street vendors, which are common in Guatemala. Additionally, some people may shop at larger department stores or malls," said one retiree in living in Guatemala.