Retirement is the point where a person stops employment completely. A person may also semi-retire and keep some sort of retirement job, out of choice rather than necessity.

To some, this is the end of the road of years of heading off to work each day.To others, it is a fresh start in life, the excitement of new things each day on their time and terms.

Some have meticulously financially planned for retirement. Many others find themselves at retirement age with little or no plans, and savings to match. The amount of money that the experts suggest will be necessary to retire comfortably is ridiculous!

If you are at retirement age you are probably saturated with retirement information including financial planning, pension plans, social security, retirement communities, medical expenses, insurance, and other choices to be made.

As you read this article, we are at a point in time where some choices are being made for us. Let me give you just one. It is no longer possible to retire in the US, UK, or many Western Countries because of the high cost of living. The cost of living in the USA goes higher each day, groceries, gasoline, medical bills, dental bills, home repair bills, and the list goes on. Unfortunately, many who have worked a lifetime are not really enjoying their Golden Years but are just barely getting by.

There is a better way! It is possible to have luxury living in retirement for pennies - not just "getting by" on your retirement pension. There are places that are more affordable, and have a quality standard of living. It is simply a matter of knowing how and where.

Asia is the most exciting continent on earth, and Thailand is an excellent country of choice. There is something for everyone, depending on your likes and requirements, large cities like Bangkok, small rural villages, beach resort areas, charming islands, lakes, cool mountains, good weather, great food, and friendly people. Thailand is filled with beautiful exotic locations where you can live on a shoestring and not have to sacrifice anything.

Let the entire country of Thailand be your "retirement community". You will have affordable housing, modern shopping centers, banking and ATM facilities, fine restaurants, entertainment, good public transportation, movie complexes, health spas, fitness centers, social clubs, golf courses, and an incredible amount of sporting activities. Language is not a problem, but learning a little basic Thai is both fun and useful. And what about healthcare? Thailand is one of the leading countries for "Medical Tourism", because the Thai medical profession is one of the most advanced in the region. Major hospitals are internationally accredited, and reasonably priced! For those who want to semi-retire, you can earn extra income in Thailand with an Internet business like affiliate marketing, stocks or forex trading, or even teach English part time.

Why not retire in a country where senior citizens are respected. I am a senior citizen living in Thailand. Someone always gives me a seat on a crowded bus or the subway. When I go to the bank, I'm always escorted to the front of the line by a bank official. People are always helping me. It's great to live in a country where older people are looked upon with esteem and consideration.

The bottom line is that you can retire in Thailand and live a more relaxed, happier life on less money. This retirement paradise is real. As you read this, many people, just like you, are already experiencing this lifestyle. Why not join them? Each day is precious and we should be enjoying life to its fullest. The best is yet to come.