Not Bali, Not Koh Samui, But Penang Has Been Voted As 3rd Best Island In The World To Retire!

Disclaimer: This article was written by a Penangite and might have some traces of bias. If you’re feeling dissatisfied, please visit Penang once the restrictions are lifted and your opinions might change.

What doesn’t Penang have? Amazing food? Check. Breathtaking views? Check. Friendly people? Check! Six months ago, in a list by CNN, Penang Assam Laksa grabbed seventh place in a list of 50 best dishes in the world!

Now, to add another feather to the caps for not only Penang but also Malaysia, in a list by International Living, a publication intended to help readers invest, move and retire overseas, Penang came up third in a list of the top 15 best islands in the world to retire in.

“A former outpost of the British Empire, Penang’s English-speaking populace makes it easy for North American expats to fit in. Not only are people friendly and helpful but retirees can talk to them in English.”

They added that the lifestyle in Penang is First World and an American couple can live well on a monthly budget of between $1,500 and $2,500 a month (RM6,202 to RM10,336). Penang’s strategic location in the middle of Southeast Asia also makes it easier to travel to places like Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

A full list of islands featured includes:

1. Malta
2. Mallorca, Spain
3. Penang, Malaysia
4. Ambergris Caye, Belize
5. Ireland
6. Roatan, Honduras
7. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
8. Isla Colon, Panama
9. Bali, Indonesia
10. Koh Samui, Thailand
11. Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
12. Crete, Greece
13. Cozumel, Mexico
14. Caye Caulker, Belize
15. Phú Quốc, Vietnam

Now, moving on to a little more serious issue. While Malaysia and Penangites have always welcomed foreign expats migrating here, situations like what this American tourist did in Bali should be avoided.

Kristen Gray, a queer African-American woman shared how she had been living in Bali for over a year with her girlfriend. Throughout their stay, both of them neglected to pay their taxes throughout their visit and were eventually deported.

Penangites, do YOU think people should retire there or are we keeping the island to ourselves? Let us know in the comments section!

Also read: Penang Asam Laksa Ranks 7th In CNN’s List Of World’s Best Dishes Beating Tom Yum & Ice Cream!