Choosing the right place to travel or settle down is a deeply personal decision. Whether you’re a retiree seeking relaxation, an aspiring digital nomad craving adventure, or someone who needs to relocate for financial, health, or personal reasons, your personality plays a key role in determining the best destinations for you.
By using the Enneagram personality framework, we can help match your unique traits to the perfect location in South and Central America, Asia, and Europe – regions popular with American travelers – as well as domestic options for those who need to move within their own country.
And if you’d like to hear my podcast on the topic, please click the player below.
Understanding the Enneagram and Travel Preferences
The Enneagram groups personalities into nine distinct types, each with unique motivations and travel styles. Identifying your Enneagram type can help guide your decision on where to go. Click the following link for a free Enneagram Personality Test.
Enneagram Travel Personalities & Matching Destinations
Key Considerations for Women Over 60
Healthcare Access
For retirees or those moving for health reasons, healthcare is a major factor. Consider:
- Quality of healthcare services (e.g., Portugal and Thailand have excellent public and private healthcare systems, while cities like Boston and Minneapolis in the U.S. have top-ranked hospitals).
- Proximity to hospitals and specialists.
- Affordability of insurance and medical care.
Healthcare Rankings by Country and U.S. Cities
| Location | Healthcare Ranking | Cost for Expats/Residents |
| Portugal | Excellent | Affordable |
| Thailand | Very Good | Low |
| Mexico | Good | Moderate |
| Boston, USA | Excellent | High |
| Phoenix, USA | Good | Moderate |
Cost of Living
Retirement savings or digital nomad income needs to go far. Compare housing, groceries, and transportation costs before deciding.
Cost of Living Comparison (Global & Domestic)
| Location | Rent (1-Bedroom, City Center) | Monthly Groceries | Public Transport |
| Mexico | $500 – $800 | $200 | $30 |
| Thailand | $400 – $700 | $150 | $25 |
| Portugal | $800 – $1,200 | $250 | $40 |
| Austin, USA | $1,300 – $2,000 | $350 | $80 |
| Asheville, USA | $1,000 – $1,600 | $300 | $60 |
Slow Travel vs. Full Relocation
If you’re unsure about committing to one place, slow travel is an excellent way to test different locations before relocating.
Slow Travel vs. Relocation
| Option | Benefits | Challenges |
| Relocation | Stability, community-building, financial predictability | Commitment, adapting to a new culture or region |
| Slow Travel | Flexibility, cultural immersion, variety | Requires more planning, frequent adjustments |
Women interested in slow travel often start in Mexico or Portugal, staying in Airbnbs for three to six months before deciding on a permanent move. Others try a U.S.-based trial move, such as spending a winter in Florida before committing to relocating there.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Change!
Your dream destination should align with your values, budget, sense of adventure, and comfort level with cultural dynamics. Whether you choose full relocation, slow travel, or moving within your own country, the world is waiting for you!
Next Steps:
- Research visa options and cultural norms for your top destination.
- Join expat or relocation communities online to ask questions.
- Download the Compatibility Checklist to start planning.
- Consider a trial stay before making a permanent move.
By understanding your personality type, cultural expectations, and practical needs, you can confidently find a destination that feels like home. Adventure doesn’t have an age limit – start exploring today!
Also read, Uncover Your Travel Personality: Let the Enneagram Guide Your Next Adventure.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
What’s your travel personality type? Have you tried a trial move to a location to test the waters? What was your experience like?
