An Expat Talks about Retiring in Galway, Ireland

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Galway

Why did you choose to retire abroad?

After several visits to Ireland over the years, I decided to make it my new home.

Are you retired abroad all year or part of the year?

All year.

Why did you choose the country you retired to?

I have roots in ireland. myh grandparents were from ireland.

Did you ever live abroad before you retired abroad?

No I never lived abroad before retirement.

How long have you lived abroad since you retired abroad?

I have been living in Ireland for about 2yrs.

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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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

How many countries (other than your home country) have you lived in as a retiree?

Just the one. Ireland.

What have been the most challenging aspects of being retired abroad?

There are not that many. The language spoken is English for most part. I would have to say just missing family and friends in the states.

What have been the most rewarding aspects of being retired abroad?

Meeting new people and discovering the beauty of Ireland.

What would you do differently if you were just starting the retire abroad process?

Not much really. I have been on this website for years and got many helpful tips regarding my move.

What is life like for a retiree in your city and its surroundings? (Is there an active expat community? Cultural Attractions? Recreation? Nightlife?)

Yes. Yes and Yes. Great attractions and plenty to do. Book clubs, music programs. Irish language classes.

What residency documents or visas did you need to obtain to retire in your host country? How difficult was this process? (Please describe)

Passport and visa. Not very difficult at all.

Did you buy a home or apartment, or rent one? Is this a difficult process? (Please describe)

I rent a small apartment in Galway.

Financially, has living abroad in your host country met your expectations? Exceeded them?

Yes, I expected it to be expensive in Ireland and it is for the most part.

What are the most important financial considerations for retiring to your host country?

Have enough income to live on for at least a year when arriving.

How much can a retiree live on comfortably in your host country?

I would say about 4,000 a month.

Do you have access to quality medical care? (Please describe - is it close? Expensive?)

Yes, I have a relative that is a physician and he makes house calls.

William Russell
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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.

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.
Get Quote

Is there a lot of crime where you live? (Please describe)

No, there really isn't unless a stolen cow or pig counts.

Describe available transportation where you live. Do you need a car? Is there access to safe public transportation?

No, I have a bus down the road from me that leaves to town every few hours..

Is there high-speed internet access where you live?

Yes, there is.

Do you have any other thoughts you would like to share about retiring abroad?

Try it you'll love it!