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Retiring in Venezuela | Expat Exchange
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Caracas, Venezuala

Retire in Venezuela

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 07, 2023

Summary: Retirees are attracted to Venezuela for its low cost of living, its vibrant culture, and its stunning natural beauty. Venezuela's tropical climate is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit throughout the year.

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What is it like to retire in Venezuela?

"Life for a retiree in Venezuela and its surroundings can be quite challenging due to the country's current economic and political situation. Despite this, there is still an active expat community in the country, with many retirees choosing to stay in the country for its cultural attractions, recreation, and nightlife. Cultural attractions include the many museums, galleries, and historical sites located throughout the country. Recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching are also popular among retirees. Nightlife in Venezuela is vibrant, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a variety of entertainment options. Despite the current situation, retirees in Venezuela can still enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle," explained a retiree in Venezuela.

"At present things are quiet because of the Venezuelan government but many retired people here from all over the world. Margarita Island is a holiday island full of hotels and beaches," explained one retiree living in Porlamar.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Venezuela?

"The language barrier, customs and food have been the most challenging aspect of living in Venezuela," said a retiree who moved to Porlamar, Venezuela.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Venezuela is the country's high inflation rate, which has caused the cost of living to skyrocket. Additionally, the country's political and economic instability has made it difficult to plan for retirement, as the value of the Venezuelan Bolivar has been in a state of flux. Furthermore, the lack of access to quality healthcare and other essential services can make it difficult for retirees to maintain their health and wellbeing. Finally, the country's high crime rate can make it difficult for retirees to feel safe and secure in their retirement," said one retiree in Venezuela.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Venezuela?

"Retiring in Venezuela can be a rewarding experience due to its diverse culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. The country is home to a variety of climates, from the Caribbean coast to the Andes Mountains, providing retirees with a range of activities to enjoy. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings. Additionally, the country is known for its vibrant music and art scenes, providing retirees with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy," commented one retiree living in Venezuela.

What are healthcare services like in Venezuela?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Venezuela. They wrote:

"The private clinics in Venezuela are excellent," said one retiree in Porlamar.

"Healthcare services in Venezuela have been in decline for many years due to the country's economic crisis. Access to basic medical supplies and medications is limited, and many hospitals lack the necessary equipment and personnel to provide adequate care. In addition, the country's public health system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and overcrowded facilities. As a result, many Venezuelans are unable to access the healthcare they need, and the quality of care is often substandard," commented one retiree living in Venezuela.

How do I meet people in Venezuela?

When we asked people living in Venezuela about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Venezuela often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Venezuela," explained one retiree living in Venezuela.

What is life like in Venezuela?

When we asked people living in Venezuela what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Venezuela can be challenging due to the country's political and economic instability. The cost of living is relatively low, but the availability of goods and services can be limited. Expats and digital nomads must be prepared to face frequent power outages, unreliable internet, and a lack of access to certain amenities. Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads find Venezuela to be an exciting and vibrant place to live, with a rich culture and friendly people," said a retiree who moved to Venezuela.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Venezuela?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Venezuela, they said:

"In general terms people in this city are nice and kind. But you shouldn't trust everybody. Personal Security must be in your mind everytime you go out especially if you go on foot (without car), because delinquency is a serius issue here. Subway is safer than autobus unlike other countries. And if u have to take the bus avoid western routes. Indeed avoid getting around on the west part of the city and lower class zones because are the most risky," explained a retiree in Caracas.

"Im English and have lived in Isla Margarita Venezuela for 15 years. Very happy here. My doctor recommended the island as having one of the best year round climates in the world. I'm 78 now, and fitter, swim in the sea every morning before breakfast. In Porlamar, the mayor has cut down crime and is relatively safe compared to English cities. Plenty in the supermarkets. Prices of imported goods tend to be higher but that's your choice. It's well worth coming to rent an apartment for a month or two and see how you feel .. I teach English here and online.. I miss the cultural side, but my health and well being is more important.. July elections coming up...... see what happens there," explained one retiree living in Venezuela.

"Before retiring in Venezuela, expats should be aware of the current political and economic situation in the country. It is important to research the cost of living and the availability of goods and services in the area they plan to live in. Expats should also be aware of the crime rate in Venezuela and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home. Lastly, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits to legally reside in Venezuela," said one member in Venezuela.

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What type of recreational activities are there in Venezuela?

"In Venezuela, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. Beaches are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Parks provide a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with plenty of trails for hiking and biking. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, there are many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters, for residents to explore," explained one retiree living in Venezuela.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Venezuela?

"People living in Venezuela typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at street vendors and small shops. Additionally, some people purchase items online or through informal networks," wrote one person in Venezuela.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Caracas, Venezuala

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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