Why Choose Italy

General useful information

Italy has been ranked 24th among the most developed countries in the world (according to the Human Development Report 2010 issued by the United Nations) and its Quality-of-life Index falls into the top ten countries in the world (“The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Quality-of-life Index”, Economist, 2005). Actually, Italy offers a very high standard of living, with a high nominal GDP per capita (“Report for Selected Countries and Subjects”. Imf.org. 14 September 2006), also offering one of the most reliable and effective health care systems in the world according to the WHO (World Health Organization).

On the international stage Italy is a founding member of what is now the European Union and part of the Eurozone, with the Euro as its currency. It is also a member of the G8, G20 and NATO, as well as the World Trade Organization, the Council of Europe, the Western European Union and the United Nations.

Moving to Italy carries no risk of isolation, since it is provided with approximately 100 airports, including the two international hubs of Malpensa in Milan and Leonardo Da Vinci in Rome, offering an integrated air passenger service throughout the Italian territory.

Domestic public transport is also highly developed, thanks to a widespread railway network, effective (urban, regional and interregional) bus lines, as well as ferry services connecting many of Italy’s islands to the mainland.

Italian cultural heritage

Retiring in Italy means enjoying fabulous landscapes and cultural heritage, appreciated all over the world and listed among the UNESCO protected sites, including the Roman remains in Latium, archeological areas in Sicily (Agrigento, Syracuse) and Campania (Pompei, Herculaneum), unique landscapes (the “Trulli” of Alberobello in Apulia, the “Sassi” and Rupestrian Churches in Matera, the Aeolian Islands and the Dolomites).

Of course, not to forget a huge number of beautiful cities which can contribute to a happy relaxing retirement: Venice and its world famous canals; Naples, well known for its ancient art collections and one of the most beautiful natural harboursin the world; Florence for its artistic, cultural, historical and literary heritage and Tuscany in general for its wonderful landscapes, to name just a few.

Italy offers plenty of choice for both art and culture, thanks to the world’s greatest art galleries including the Galleria Regionale in Palermo, the Uffizi in Florence, Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice, Civico Museo d’Arte Contemporanea in Milan and many, many more.

There is no doubt that Italy has much to offer from the cultural point of view, as well as good health care, beautiful beaches, coastlines and a temperate climate which makes it a perfect place to live and stay for the rest of your life.