Retiring abroad? Who does it best? For me—and for countless others—it’s a dream come true. It’s the chance to embrace a new lifestyle, immerse yourself in another culture, and enjoy a different pace of life. However, making that dream work requires more than just a passport and a plane ticket. Success depends on many factors, from personality traits to financial preparation. Whether you’re retiring solo or as part of a couple, knowing what it takes to thrive abroad can help you decide if this life-changing adventure is truly for you.
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus
While thinking about how men, women, and couples navigate life differently—and how those differences affect living abroad—I remembered reading John Gray’s book Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus. Men, for example, tend to focus on solutions and independence, while women prioritize empathy and nurturing. While this observation is obviously simplistic, understanding these basic tendencies could be a start for preparing you for how you approach your new lifestyle. It also ties into the bigger question: retiring abroad? Who does it best?
Men: Independence and Adaptability
For men, retiring abroad may mean having a chance to redefine their identity outside of a long career. Those who thrive are usually accustomed to stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing challenges or are open to adapting to a new culture. The shift from a structured routine to a more relaxed pace of life can be both rewarding and daunting, but for men willing to embrace the change, it often becomes an opportunity for personal growth.
According to Gray, men often approach life changes by seeking solutions and maintaining independence. When retiring abroad, these traits can work in their favor—especially when tackling the logistical challenges of a move, such as navigating visa processes, budgeting, or setting up a new home. Men who thrive abroad often use their problem-solving skills to overcome hurdles, turning challenges into opportunities—offering one perspective in the broader question of “Retiring abroad? Who does it best?”
However, independence can sometimes lead to isolation. Men who succeed abroad also recognize the importance of building a social network to avoid loneliness. Joining local clubs, taking language classes, or pursuing hobbies helps men connect with their new community while maintaining their sense of autonomy. Humor and adaptability, particularly when navigating cultural differences, also go a long way toward turning a retirement move into a rewarding adventure.
Women: Resourcefulness and Connection
Women often naturally adapt to new environments, and those who retire abroad frequently excel at building connections and creating fulfilling lives. Successful female retirees tend to approach the move with eyes wide open, viewing it as an opportunity to explore hidden interests and immerse themselves in a new culture.
Women who create support systems—through expat groups, volunteering, or forming relationships with locals—find themselves better equipped to navigate the challenges of a new country. Many women embrace the chance to pursue creative outlets like art or cooking or to engage with the community through cultural events. This balance of independence and connection can transform the experience into one of exploration and personal growth.
Couples: Teamwork and Flexibility
Couples bring a unique dynamic to retiring abroad. Success often hinges on teamwork, communication, and balancing each other’s strengths. Couples who thrive abroad treat the move as a shared adventure, navigating cultural differences and practical challenges together.
For many couples, relocating provides an opportunity to rediscover each other in a fresh context. Exploring new places, learning a language, or tackling tasks like grocery shopping and setting up a local bank account can strengthen the bond and foster a sense of partnership. However, it’s also important for couples to maintain individual interests to avoid depending too much on one another. Personal growth within the relationship helps both partners adjust and enjoy their new lifestyle.
For women or men with nurturing tendencies, maintaining close ties with family and friends back home often becomes a priority. Regular communication and emotional support help with your sense of belonging and reinforce your support system, providing stability as you settle into your new life.
Empathy and nurturing aren’t just about how you treat others; they’re about creating an environment—internally and externally—where you and those around you can thrive.
The Common Thread: Open-Mindedness
Whether you’re retiring solo or with a partner, the most successful retirees share a few key traits. Open-mindedness, resilience, and adaptability are critical for thriving in a new culture. Retiring abroad isn’t just about adjusting to a new environment—it’s about embracing a new way of life, with all its quirks and surprises.
Retiring abroad is more than a change of scenery—it’s a chance to rediscover yourself, your partner, and your purpose.
Ready to Make the Move?
It all starts with a dream … and the help of Renestance!
If you dream of a new life in the South of France, let me introduce you to Renestance. As someone who’s been through the adventure of moving to France, I know how important it is to have their expert guidance. Renestance makes it easy to handle everything from planning your move and house-hunting to setting up your bank account and renewing your stay visa. They’ll even support you throughout your first year to ensure your dream becomes a reality. Trust me, with Renestance, you’ll be living your best life in France before you know it!
2 Responses
This is a great article covering relational aspects that many people probably don’t even consider when moving abroad. It probably applies to retirement in general to some degree. Thanks so much for sharing your insights!
Thank you! I’m really interested in how different people decide to move abroad. There are lots of different aspect to explore. Glad you’re enjoying my journey. Hope to see you this year?