Although we have 10-15 years before then, I am already thinking about purchasing a property in a warm location to spend 6 months out of the year at. We love the ocean and a white sandy beach. We would prefer to stay in the country, although Mexico is appealing due to the cost factor. Any suggestions or experiences?

If you want to be able to swim at the beach in winter then I think your only choices within the U.S. are South Florida and Hawaii. You may want to look into the possibility of Puerto Rico, as it probably has advantages as being a commonwealth of the U.S. and does have a lot to offer.

Maggi, Since the island of Kauai (Hawaii) is still recovering from Hurrican Iniki, 8-9 yrs ago, you still can pick up some good deals on nice properties.
Try a search using "Kauai Real Estate Firms"...I think Makai, Prosser and Northshore Properties have their own websites.
Mucho Mahalos,
Kal

If you are planning to spend half of every year somewhere, then be sure to consider the quality and accesibility of the medical facilities in the area and the distance and cost of travel between the area and the relatives and friends whom you will want to see.

You may also want to consider the U.S. Virgin Islands, as it is also a commonwealth but I have heard that there is a crime problem there. Also, I believe that the medical facilities there are very-limited and that could become a problem as you get older.

Finally, don't buy property in an area before spending enough time in the area to really get a feel for how you like it. Once you have a place you are interested in, I suggest trying to rent there for at least several months before making any comittment.

Best wishes and keep us posted.

I have no personal knowledge, but I guy I know that lived in Costa Rica for a time told me it would be great for retirement. Factors he listed: 1. stable politics 2. Low prices by American standards 3. A large American/english-speaking community is present 4. Health care is half decent 5. Because of the central mountains you can get away if too hot at the coast. Might be worth checking out.

Thanks to all of you. We first want to check out the states, so family can easily visit. We visited Costa Rica a few years ago and fell in love with it. It was safe and a gorgeous, diverse country - but far away...What comments does anyone have about the panhandle area of Florida? Or, what about that city "The Truman Show" was filmed at (the name escapes me)?

You are thinking of Seaside, where the Gulf is a beautiful green and the sand pure white and sugar fine. Winters might not be as warm as you hope for though--no swimming unless you are used to very cold water, but the beach is perfect for long walks. You can expect a freeze or two, but they will be short lived. Unfortunately all this comes with a pretty hefty price tag, at least in Seaside!

If you decide to make this a year round residence that area is slightly more tolerable than areas further south in Florida. I'm in Tampa and summers are unreal. Our winter days are usually in the 70's with a few cold snaps and my guess is that their norm is more often the 60's than 70's. Even here only the really hardy sorts get in the water in Jan and Feb!