RETIREMENT:
Personally, I do not see South East Europe as being my full time retirement location; It would be a “summer only” retirement location shared with a second retirement location that I go to in the European winter (such as South East Asia, Latin America, or India).
The only possible full time retirement locations in the region are Turkey or Greece (especially the Greek Islands or Crete). The Greek Islands have always been a dream retirement location for me – I lived on the islands and spent time living and working in Athens back in the 70s (and absolutely loved it).
However, at this stage, I am discounting both Turkey and Greece as being too expensive for my intents and purposes.
HEALTH:
UK passport holders (like myself) visiting other European Union countries should also carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as it entitles travellers to reduced cost, sometimes free, medical treatment in most European countries. Online applications normally arrive within seven days. Applications may also be made by telephone on 0845 606 2030 or by post using the form which can be downloaded from the website.
ACCOMMODATION:
In South East Europe look for Apartman, Sobe, and Zimmer signs; these are private apartments and usually come at better prices than Hostels and Hotels.
DRIVING IN EUROPE:
I considered buying a car and Driving Europe, but decided not to this time.
Instead, I simplified my route.