As a retiree today, you are in a prime position compared to those pioneering expats who went before you.

Today you options are expanding rapidly. You could move to urbanization to live amongst neighbours of all ages and nationalities or you may even opt for the peace of solitude of a rural finca.

However, inspired by their American counterparts in the sunshine state of Florida, more and more retired people are buying into residential complexes designed exclusively for maturer people.

They are rapidly springing up everywhere mainly in our own Spanish sunshine states of Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca. They are intended for people looking for a quiet, secure living environment with the guarantee that their neighbours won’t be crowds of partying teenagers. On the contrary, neighbours will be similar aged people of different nationalities (a mix of British, Scandanavians, Dutch, Germans and even Spanish) with the same priorities.

The complexes are designed to be self contained with a medical centre and the peace of mind of a 24-hour call out service on site. As well at the important medical facilities including 24 hour emergency cover, there also fun facilities.

Residents can enjoy an active social life at the onsite bars and restaurants. For sporty types, there are indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, tennis clubs etc. Although, the complexes offer everything that is needed to lead an active and full life, there are usually daily minibuses taking residents to local supermarkets and banks.

If you are interested in living in a retirement complex, you may want to consider the following:

• Decide whether you want to buy freehold or leasehold.
• Check out how much the community charge will be.
• Spend a week on complex before buying and ask other residents about their experience.
• Visit during the winter to get a full impression.