Kelly Demele’s retirement adventure began with a spontaneous thought in Tampa. At 58, she decided it was time for a change and looked south for her next chapter. Working in telemedicine gave her the flexibility to relocate, and after exploring Panama and Costa Rica, she landed on Belize. The language, currency advantages, and tax incentives made sense.
Belize’s Qualified Retirement Program sealed the deal. It offered freedom to travel between Belize and the U.S., plus duty exemptions for her shipped goods. With her dog Baxter, she packed up and headed for the Cayo District, a quiet region known for its lush jungles, rivers, and Mayan ruins.
In Santa Familia village, she discovered Carmelita Gardens, a solar-powered, self-sufficient community where residents generate their own electricity and collect rainwater. Kelly built a spacious home there, complete with modern comforts and plenty of open-air living space.
Life in Belize now runs at a gentler pace. She bikes, kayaks, and spends afternoons by the river with Baxter. Her bills are minimal, her internet is reliable, and her peace of mind is priceless. Kelly says she’s living well on less than $1,000 a month and couldn’t be happier with her sun-filled, sustainable retirement.
My Take…
Nice to see the smaller spots getting some news.
English-speaking, kind to retirees, travel freedom, tax perks, duty-free stuff.
Click on the link below for the full article:
https://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/countries/belize/savoring-the-simple-life-in-belize/
