Retiring in Spain: An Aussie's inspiring & affordable story

Subscribe and set 🔔 » 7news.link/YTSubscribe | Norah Ohrt lived most of her life in Perth, Western Australia. As a single woman approaching retirement, Norah realised that if she chose to stay in Perth, with her modest means, she would likely live in poverty. So, she investigated how to retire overseas - and found that by moving her whole life to the south of Spain she could afford to live where she wanted, and how she wanted, and in incredible style. This is how Norah did it. This story originally aired on Sunday Night in 2019. 7NEWS reporter Anegla Cox travelled to Martos, in Andalusia, to meet Norah and see her incredible home and meet her friends.
Key moments in this video | Chapters
0:30 Inside Norah’s Spanish retirement home
1:10 Why Norah left Perth, Australia when she retired
2:00 The cost of retired life in Spain
2:28 Why Norah chose to retire in Spain
3:00 The cost of buying a house in Spain
3:15 How to access the pension when retiring overseas
3:40 The downsides of retiring overseas
4:30 The medical care benefits for retirees
5:00 Overcoming language barriers
5:40 Why older people and retirees are revered in Spain and Europe
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[@norahohrt4922]

Thank you for all the comments, some I have replied to, some made me laugh, a few got up my nose...all good! I am still here five years after this was first made and I am still happy and healthy. This is a great place to live, but a whole lot better if you speak the language and have integrated. I still have no regrets! Norah Ohrt

[@Michelle_Emm]

That is so wonderful to hear!

[@georgepace5785]

Write me about the availability and affordability of homes for sale nearby thanks!

[@nish8756]

Happy for you that you’re happy and enjoying the new life, which is affordable & not possible in Australia.

[@Michelle_Emm]

@@nish8756 it is possible in Australia if you've prepared for it and are privileged enough not to have suffered major setbacks.

[@nish8756]

@@Michelle_Emm True or unless one wins a lotto

[@ElMomentodeLacer]

Omg I am Spanish!! I feel so proud to welcome this lovely human being❤❤🤗🤗😍

[@caravanlifenz]

I would love to go on a nice holiday in Spain and see your beautiful country again.

[@ufosrus]

Pero fíjate que aprendió el idioma y adoptó la cultura. Eso no lo ves con los ingleses que viven en tu país.

[@Laabebafranco]

Ni en los americanos que viven en Mexico. 🤦‍♀️

[@estebancorral5151]

La señora es Australiana y no Inglesa. Ya es tiempo que tú también empleas ambos idiomas.

[@lolalola2592]

Most people commenting over here don’t get it. Spanish people are far more friendly, generous, sociable than Australian. Your neighbours become friends quickly, the produce, especially vegetables, is so much tastier, our healthcare is not doing that well lately but it is easier to navigate and free, not like in Australia. Housing is cheaper, travelling is cheaper… I love Oz but yes Spain is my future when I retire By the way, I am originally from Spain but I have lived in Oz (and in other countries) for most of my life. Oz is great for nature, freedom, money…but it is definitely not paradise for non rich retirees or for people with a deep sense of community who have no children

[@chinobonito30]

So you became anti social over there lol

[@Tomato_tourist]

Don't bother explaining to them , they are not able to understand , they live isolated all their retirement , only in the retirement villages you can talk to people , social levels are completely different .

[@giuliak4750]

Spanish is cheaper because salaries are low in Spain.

[@hamidz3113]

⁠@@giuliak4750You mean Spain is cheaper

[@giuliak4750]

Yeah of course. Spain is cheaper because we get paid peanuts. Australia is cheap for an American coming from a high cost of living area in the US, probably. Easy to retire with the Australian super when you have such a high disposable income compared to Spain in this case. Not so funny for Spanish people.@@hamidz3113

[@a_bode1]

I can sympathize with this lady's story. I am heading towards retirement and, sadly, there's is NO WAY I can retire in Australia after 35years, two careers and PhD.

[@Leaptab]

How is that possible? Where did all your money go.

[@LovinMyLife]

@@LeaptabSo, how old are you? Can you tell us more about your life? See everyone of us is an individual. Living totally different lives, like it should be. Some people get sick at an early age, cancers, tumors, loose limbs, all sorts of medical problems. Some poor people loose a house through fire, floods, natural disasters. Another group loose a partner unexpectedly. Sometimes they are the main bread winner which was fine with five children on a good income however not so much if they pass away leaving one parent to try and start again. Sure! Some just don’t work, some waste their money traveling every year, saving nothing. But how do we judge one from another? What’s your story? How much will you retire on or are you retired?

[@a_bode1]

@@Leaptab To people who didn't deserve it as I know now. I came to Australia 35 years ago with $100 in my pocket and not a word of English. I didn't buy into the real estate market 10 years ago recovering from my divorce and losses. Now it's too late. No inheritance, no husband... It happens... I wouldn't be the first PhD driving Uber, hopelessly sending out my resume and at the age of 60 not getting anywhere.

[@a_bode1]

@@LovinMyLife exactly

[@LovinMyLife]

@@a_bode1 We are lucky in some ways that the government does step up to help. Maybe not enough but more than nothing. I often ask myself, how much is enough? People never to seem happy regardless what they earn. They spend to their limit anyway. If they earn $299 they spend $320. If they earn $2000 they spend $2200. For what? To leave possessions behind for someone else when we pass away? It’s all a mystery to me.

[@Answersonapostcard]

Lots of people don't have the bottle to even do some solo travel, let alone move to a different country. Andalucia is an amazing part of Spain. If you take too much notice of the opinions of others, you'll stay where you are forever and never grow as a person. Most people are held back by the fear of the unknown. Please don't wait until retirement - do it now. If you never try, you'll never know.

[@glennmoulton6458]

Very true

[@estebancorral5151]

I have been to Andulsia. It is amazing, but it also has its bad points. Indoor smokers who contaminate the air in restaurants. The owners will not prohibit them for fear of losing customers.

[@veliarichards2639]

Good for Norah my blessings

[@wolfthequarrelsome504]

I tried so I know. There's no place like home.

[@Answersonapostcard]

@@wolfthequarrelsome504 that is your experience only

[@AI_admin]

It makes you want to cry, when you see how broken Australia is, and Spain doing the things that matter, well. Insurance of any type should not be a luxury, some people just want a simple life, a good life.

[@TerryMcMaster-jw8zr]

Australia broken? You need to study recent Spanish history

[@Answersonapostcard]

@@TerryMcMaster-jw8zrno country is without problems, however I would prefer to live somewhere with much loser cost of living than Australia

[@testicool013]

@@Answersonapostcardand would you also enjoy the much lower wages?

[@Answersonapostcard]

@@testicool013 yes, because in Spain food and property is cheaper, you can spend more of your life outdoors, and not stuck indoors with the heating on because the weather is so poor half of the year.

[@testicool013]

@@Answersonapostcard are you saying the weather is poor in Australia? 🤔

[@AdamSahr-cj4kf]

The fact that an elderly Australian with no connections in Spain did not hesitate to leave for good, says a lot about what society and the cost of living have come to in Oz. Median house prices around 1M is not exactly a success story...

[@wyattfamily8997]

And yet BOTH major Parties still support allowing overseas INVESTORS ( NON CITIZENS) to continue to purchase Australian domestic housing which COMPOUND the housing difficulties facing Australians.

[@generalyoutubewatching5286]

why you must pay off a house when you retire. you can live on super until it runs out then you have to go into reverse mortgage. that's assuming you won't be helping your kids by being the bank of mum and dad. so yeah. it's expensive as hell

[@petesmitt]

The only reason I would consider leaving Australia is to get away from all the mass migration..

[@AdamSahr-cj4kf]

@@petesmitt What a bloody massive reason. A reason as big as India and China combined...

[@stephanguitar9778]

​@@wyattfamily8997Yes. Australian real estate is well regarded as being one of the world's best money laundering schemes. No checks on the pedigree of the money if it flows into real estate.

[@louaceveu1925]

A Spaniard living in Orange County CA, it seems to me that in Australia the big corporations and financial institutions are tapping into the resources of the elderly like in California. Nursing homes starting from $5,000 to $6000 a month and assisted living from $8,000 to $12,000 month. I predict no thousands but millions of people moving to Spain and Southern Europe because it seems to me that retirees don't provide any more value to this predator Capitalistic system. I am going back to my country for good next year because I know for a fact that the cost of living, health care and nursing homes will be a lot more affordable and I will be treated with a much better dignity.

[@outdoor75]

Nursing homes in Eastern suburbs in Sydney require a deposit of 800k to 1m to secure a spot!

[@louaceveu1925]

My uncle, without any mobility, was 3 years in a Nursing home in Asturias, Northern Spain and he loved it. He paid 1,300 Euros a month. Last week I checked the prices at the same nursing home and currently the price is 1,400 Euros a month. I saw other Nursing homes in the area and they go from 1,200 to 1600 Euros a month.@@outdoor75

[@mycellphone4437]

Spaniard here. The provision of elderly care is a challenge pretty much anywhere. The Spanish system is also broken. We rely on a small army of foreign workers - prob about 500k - in home-based care who endure many hardships. Re. institutionalized care, private care homes tend to be quite expensive, and public ones have very long waiting lists. The quality of the services, in my experience, is often subpar. We have a thing or two to learn about the Nordics. These services are comparatively cheaper here because the COL is cheaper. We have to find a better, more sustainable way of providing the elderly with what they need in their final years not only in Spain, but everywhere else. Saludos.

[@kevindesira1298]

Kids respecting old people ! Imagine that happening here. Sounds like paradise.

[@7news]

It's true! Spain, like many European countries, really do respect the seniors in their communities. It's an important aspect of their cultures.

[@kbb1919]

Asian countries respect elderlies as well. It depends on culture. Aussie needs a wake up call

[@B_Evo]

ha! Try walking into plenty of school classrooms lately...kids and manners and respect?...some wouldnt even know the MEANING of those words!

[@moldovandorin6187]

I'm 47 and i had young guys shouting at me from cars "hey daddy" in Australia. În Europe i never had this kind of "attention". It's very rude and disappointing to see this kind of behaviour

[@caravanlifenz]

@@7news Europeans also respect their teachers more too.

[@AussieVet]

Retired at 48 with a pension currently living in Asia will never go back, just the shock of prices at the pump and Woolworths when I visit Australia is enough.

[@gadgetgrader]

Where do you recommend in Asia?

[@AussieVet]

@@gadgetgrader Either Thailand or Philippines.

[@B_Evo]

Obviously 'self funded'. Or military pension is all I can guess. Assets deeming and age limits wont let one access govt pensions until you reach a certain age

[@petejames1326]

@@AussieVet i wanna do the same but the VISA is the problem you can only get a visa for like 2 mths than you have to leave the country and try and re apply for a new visa, they make it so hard even if you can prove you have enough money to live there for yrs you cant get a long term visa, stupid

[@caravanlifenz]

@@petejames1326 No, Thailand offers Westerners a retirement visa. It's called the "Extension of Stay Based on Retirement”. Plenty of Aussies/Kiwis/Americans/Brits are granted it.

[@danielbaldi320]

I've been living in Spain half my life (Madrid 24 years) and go back to Australia every year. It's definitely more affordable, you have everything you need, the medical system is amazing, probably best public transport system in the world (yes I've travelled way too much), amazingly fast internet (leaves Australia in the dark ages) the food is fabulous and the social life a total buzz for all ages! I love Australia, but it's true now I call Spain my home 😃. Also the account mentions the exchange rate etc. during the past 24 years it's been pretty constant between Euro and AUD, but what has changed is affordability. Spain is so much more affordable for living, housing and most things 💃

[@giuliak4750]

Spain is affordable because local salaries are extremely low and your income is not from Spain.

[@stephanguitar9778]

​@@giuliak4750True, but imagine a Spanish person trying to retire to Australia. Half of Australians have no life at all when they retire.

[@giuliak4750]

A Spanish person would never be able to even enter Australia because of the high income visa requirement for pensioners.@@stephanguitar9778

[@danielbaldi320]

@@giuliak4750 No, my income is from Spain and has been for 24 years! I'm in the Telecommunications engineering field and the wages are actually comparable but the living costs certainly aren't.

[@innis8180]

@@giuliak4750Exactly! Affordability always comes at the expense of the entire or part of the working population.

[@218Bright]

I have loved my decision to retire to Spain from Washington DC, so I understand the rich quality of life Nora is enjoying.

[@manasikashyap]

That’s amazing! Where in Spain did you move to?

[@jiti5034]

Visa?

[@timschmitt7550]

Spain is affordable to you because Spanish salaries are extremely low and your source of income is from abroad. It is that simple.

[@beltrangarrote1982]

Spaniard here. Spain is getting lots of love lately which I’m grateful for. Many well-off immigrants setting up camp and bringing their money, however it’s a contributing factor in the Real Estate price rising and house shortages. Just this week our government announced it’s putting an end to the Golden Visa (just like Portugal did a few months). But anyway, I think housing prices is a problem all over the World.

[@timschmitt7550]

Indeed. And foreigners forget that Spain may be nice if you get your pension from abroad or bring money earned abroad, but Spain has low salaries and one of the highest rates of unemployment in Europe. So if you want to raise a family and want to have a bright future for your children, the story is a bit different.

[@michaellowe5980]

Moved to Japan from Australia 2 years ago, went back for a holiday last month. Australia is so ridiculously expensive now. Real estate, petrol, groceries, private health , even crappy 2nd hand cars cost stupid amounts. The biggest shock is many tradies do shoddy work but charge over $100 an hour and are busy. Australia has become a country of increasing crime, homelessness and rogues, and years of waiting for treatment if you dont have private health.

[@jiti5034]

Japan Visa?

[@LearnSpanishWorld]

I've been to Spain...Loved it...My wife is Australian. She fell in love with Chile and its people and now her and my daughter wantus to move there . I love Australia, but the cost of living and housing is off the roof. Chile is like Spain. So much more affordable and people are extremely friendly, there s a sense of community and you feel part of a community. Australia is such a great place, an amazing country. I love it. I don't want to move, but my wife reckons it's so expensive ...It s like deciding who do you prefer the most, your dad or mum? 🥲

[@Answersonapostcard]

Go to Chile. Amazing part of the world.

[@junal27]

In the last 24 years I have worked and shared education with two types of chileans, the educated middel class one and the m******. The first group always talked about the good stuff from Spain, some of them even finished post graduation studies in Spain. Many of them returned back home for good positions and often travel back and forth between Chile and Europe. The second group, never spoke about the pros of Spain (no need to talk at all!) and they were always 100% focussed on how marvellous was Chile, most of them never returned to Chile and never pursued higher education. Time passed by and some are still around me, the narrative has changed to "it depends". We are all older. I have no contact with the elite group anymore, the second I still have, all concurr that Chile is not anymore the best place on the earth as it used to be... some may have a hard time to recognize it. Moraleja: Spain and Chile are not the same, Spain is Europe and Chile is south America. They can NOT compare each other and depending on what you are looking for, one may fit you better. If you have kids in HS or college's age, do not doubt it, go to Spain and settle in a small town, your life in the long run will be easier and you won't regreat. Good luck in your endevour

[@AbcAbc-br9ku]

​​@@junal27 Chile was never a good place to be in. As a Chilean i dare to say this. What kind of 'elite' or middle class are you talking about as they are far from the same? Have you ever lived in Chile?

[@ommanipadmehung3014]

We need more of these kinds of stories channel 7!

[@christopherlaw9184]

It’s great that she has found her place of peace and happiness ❤

[@anklebOOtz]

Her pantry looked like enough for me to move there! Wishing Norah continued good health

[@ommanipadmehung3014]

Spain and the other Mediterranean countries like Italy Greece Portugal are amazing places to live. The people have such warmth and are very embracing! But the Spanish are perhaps the most open hearted

[@musashidanmcgrath]

Portugal is not on the Mediterranean, it's on the Atlantic 😊

[@intotheblue970]

I retired recently at 50 and we moved out of Australia too. Best decision we could have made

[@chappydl2520]

Where did you move if you don’t mind sharing?

[@dadonwelfare]

Where to? I’m thinking of Thailand because I can have 17 year olds on rotation on the cheap. Also, weed is legal.

[@miahoooooooo]

I hope I can retire at 50... but I feel I may be able to retire at 90???

[@Tomato_tourist]

How mate? Share pls , l dream about it , 52 now btw

[@claudiaturroortega5297]

Fantastic story and act of bravery. I am from Catalonia, a northern region of Spain, and I can tell that life there can be heart fulfilling. I have been living in Sydney for 8 years and I still miss the vibrant energy from there and how easy it is to talk to anyone ❤

[@chinobonito30]

What’s wrong with syd

[@maset8]

@@chinobonito30 Nothing at all, Sydney is great...but it's a lot harder to make new friends in Australia than it is in Spain. I'm Spanish-Aussie and have lived in both countries, have to say that, in general, Spaniards are friendlier and that the elderly seem a lot happier and 'connected to society' than their Australian counterparts. I'll be retiring in Spain....

[@ufosrus]

No te culpo. Las sociedades anglo sajonas son difíciles donde acomodarse.

[@claudiaturroortega5297]

Culture tends to define the way that we think and behave. The values and style of life are different in both countries as some of the replies have explained. Not everyone feels at home everywhere, right?What it's true is that social connections are essential for our wellbeing and sense of belonging. In this sense, Sydney is a tough city. One of my jobs was facilitating a group of seniors and some of them would talk to anyone in the whole week!

[@lolalola2592]

I completely understand you Claudia. Spaniard living in Melbourne now ❤️

[@lisacraig4585]

Retired and happily living in Portugal. Only thing I miss is the cacaphony of parrots…so built an aviary for the cockatiels surrounded by Australian native trees. Safer, milder climate and once you pick up the language, a warm, welcoming community.

[@caravanlifenz]

That's so cute :) As a New Zealander, the thing I don't miss about Australia is your noisy birds 🥰🐦

[@jiti5034]

What kind of Visa

[@josephj6521]

Enjoy Portugal and your retirement!

[@terryevp4084]

God Bless this wonderful lady and she is living the great life. Spain is awesome. Take Care

[@stevenponte6655]

Good on her! Just the fact that ever day she has to converse in a language that is not her mother tongue will keep her mind active and stimulated!!

[@caravanlifenz]

I would love to order food in Spanish like that every day. It would make me feel so fancy.

[@georgepace5785]

Wow, but European languages are easier to learn because to Spanish alphabet is akin to ours. Still, clever lady.

[@theresa4bar]

The only thing that she left out, is how safe it is here in Spain. I am also a pensioner from the USA, living in Spain since 2010. I have no regrets either. Looking forward to purchasing a home 🏡 in the Basque countryside soon.

[@jiti5034]

How did you get the visa?

[@Manuel78]

Beautiful testimony. As Cuban- Spanish I agree the quality of live in Spain is unbelievable. When she will be older there are all facilities for elderly people. Best regards.

[@oriolez5582]

In Australia, women over 50yo are risk of homelessness (single, widowed, divorced). Perth specially is super expensive. She made a great decision financially and from wellbeing perspectives.

[@Wolf-yw7en]

I clicked on this video because Norah is already living my plan. I’m heading for Leon in Spains North in a couple of years to settle for my retirement.

[@Answersonapostcard]

Don't wait for retirement - do it now

[@karlosmatiko2241]

León??? Llévate una buena bufanda y un mejor abrigo. Suerte.

[@Wolf-yw7en]

@@karlosmatiko2241 No problem. I love 4 seasons. I’ll bring my coats.

[@123__12]

leon is a very rural city and far from others.. also the weather is very unstable, and far from the sea. . If you are looking for an affordable city w amazing weather you could settle in andalucia (the southern region) in cities like cádiz, granada or even the lovely sevilla, but i guess Leon is nice if you really want a calm place to live. :)

[@Wolf-yw7en]

@@123__12 I love the northern seasons. Don’t won’t to live in the dust bowl of Andalusia. Seville is too hot.

[@kristymarsh1569]

GOOD FOR HER she worked hard and now enjoys her retirement 👏 ❤

[@Loupdelou-ly1ve]

Nora is amazing! I hope she writes a book about her life - Madrid in the 60s, career in art.... and the confidence to move to Spain in retirement. She's an inspiration! If my husband and I moved away to Europe from inner-city Brisbane in retirement, the only thing I would miss is the birds and their singing. My suburb has totally changed in the 30 years I've lived here - neighbours keep to themselves now, and out on a morning walk they look scared of everything and everyone! I worry for the future of countries like Portugal, Spain and Italy (all places I've visited and love) with the influx of residents moving there from overseas. Give it 10 years and it could end up like my suburb....

[@7news]

We have some good news for all the Norah fans out there - we're working on releasing an extended version of her story. It's even more fascinating! We'll hear more about her life, and exactly what it took for her to pack up and retire in Spain. The highs, the lows, the delicious food. Watch this space!

[@ByronBae888]

@@7newscan’t wait for that!

[@onemomentatatime7697]

Well I hope it will be newer than this because this is a number of years old @@7news

[@norahohrt4922]

I do miss the songs of the maggies and the kookaburras! Norah

[@maset8]

@@norahohrt4922 Well done, Norah....hope you continue to enjoy Andalucia. Enhorabuena....ahora, a disfrutar de la buena vida 🙂

[@viviennepastor3188]

Wonderful. I am Italian/Australian and I intend to move back. Australia is very different to the one I remember in my youth.

[@joek292]

Italy is suffering demographic issues

[@aftabkrishna7274]

I'm extremely happy for her and wishing her and her family a wonderful time in Spain!

[@Pyaripriya82]

Yep. ❤ I hope and pray opportunities like this are available for everyone ❤ BEAUTIFUL

[@lucysophie306]

Omg I don’t know what to say. I am so happy for you Nora. I grew up in Europe. I lived in Paris and Norway but Spain was my favourite holiday destination. I got married and moved to Australia as my husband is an Australian. Trust me my husband is the only reason I love Australia. I wish if I can take a quick flight back to Paris but it takes at least 30h flight time. When I was in Europe i used to cross the boarders and travel to another country during weekends. Here in down under people are so isolated. And in Europe we all are so friendly and respectful each other so much. In Europe we share love and good moments with others. I am missing all that and one day we both are going back home. Nora I am so happy for you. Have fun and stay healthy ❤ loads of love ❤❤

[@karenryan9113]

What a wonderful story! Having lived in Asia for 10 years I can well understand Norah's decision to live her life in comfort, fun and without financial worries. Best of luck to her. Think I will be doing the same thing!!!

[@KarinaForte-qh2qt]

Many British should take example of this aussi lady that has made the effort to learn and speak the local lingo !!!!!!

[@josephj6521]

The Brits are too complacent. Now they voted to leave the EU, they’ve only made it harder to move to continental Europe.

[@blqeddie2946]

Oh well done Nora!!! I love that you learned the language ❤🇮🇹

[@viviennelam8604]

Good for you 7NEWS Australia & Angela for reporting this feel good story. Journalism is not alll about gloom & grim👍

[@denkoxh8610]

I've travelled to Spain many many times. I would easily pick my self up and move there if I could. Firstly, my spanish is very basic and finding a job there is not easy. Australia although a great country in many ways, has lost its appeal in many ways and I don't know where to begin. We've forgotten how to live here and people here are looking up to the American model which is quite depressing, especially when you see how American society is looking like these days.. a regional city in spain has alot more to offer than an Aussie city. Firstly is way more affordable and there's alot more to do than just drinking and eating at overpriced places that close at 8pm...

[@Answersonapostcard]

finding a job in your home country probably isn't easy either... as for Spanish, get a teacher and have regular classes and you'll improve

[@danieldjakovic]

The financial advisor sounds a bit stupid. Weather you are healthy or not it's the same here or there

[@rg1924]

I work in ‘high finance’ and I agree. Currency exchange rates of course fluctuate but the standard of living is clearly MUCH HIGHER

[@craigstiver6690]

He's just trying to make you think he's still relevant for his job.

[@mtc9683]

Well for beginners we have social medicine at no cost, further more social services free if you are old and need assistance at home or to get groceries you only have to request it, medical bracelet in case you are alone and have a medical emergency you just push the button and they will came to assist you also free, anyway after 38 years in California I would never have been able to retire there and. now living in front of the Mediterranean with friendly people around

[@viviennepastor3188]

Absolutely. You get nothing in Australia because it is all means tested.

[@manflynil9751]

​@@mtc9683I'm thinking of retiring somewhere in the Mediterranean. Can you tell me whereabouts you live, please?

[@markas1987]

I can't wait to leave Australia once financially able. Good on her.

[@janbolton7305]

This is such a great story. Sad to think you can't stay in Australia and have a comfortable life but you've made absolutely the right decision. Hope you enjoy Spain for many more years. Take care. Love from the UK x

[@dorothearagsdale3602]

Just saw your video and I had the identical thought process about "retiring" in the US, so I did my research and am joyfully living in Mérida, Mexico with my 88 year old Mom. We are both thriving here, and we have family close by with whom we reconnected after decades of living in the US. We also speak Spanish fluently, which has been a veritable gift of our upbringing. You are a BRAVE, kind, strong and truly lovely lady! Le deseamos Todo lo mejor a Usted, ahora y Siempre.

[@camwood7600]

Decades of Australian politicians have failed there constituents to allow the situation in Australia to become so bad.

[@georgepace5785]

Your comment should reade "Decades of greedy politicians ....."

[@DavoInMelbourne]

@@georgepace5785 I know plenty of greedy Aussies that aren't politicians. Always on the lookout for the next investment property when they have 10 already. Disgusting really.

[@jimcraiggeezer]

Bless her . Spain is beautiful

[@elisabettaboni4750]

I' m Italian and I live in this wonderful country. SPAIN is the better choice!❤

[@andreascassinides2660]

Retiring overseas is the only option due to the extreme cost of living in Australia.

[@joseyomismo4880]

Me encanta que esta mujer este tan agusto entre nosotros, y la felicito por hacer algo que a nosotros los españoles nos gusta y es que te intecres hablando o intentandolo ,para nosotros con 4 palabras vale.Y otra gran cosa que hace es juntarse con gente del lugar. Aqui en Valencia hay muchos ingleses y alemanes ,pero la gran mayoria de ellos viven en sus bunkeres y simplemente queman el tiempo.

[@ufosrus]

Eso es justo lo que me estorba. No entiendo como esa gente puede vivir como huéspedes en un país sin intentar hablar el idioma y adoptar la cultura. Creo que solo se mudaron por el clima y lo demás no les importa.

[@mandyellis876]

Go Norah! I’m delighted that you’ve found somewhere that ticks all the boxes for you. Very best wishes for the future.

[@Lindsaybkk]

Lived here in Bangkok Thailand since 2004, extensions based on retirement 800k THB in Thai bank account for 9yrs now. Own a condo here. There is no way I could live in Australia on my savings + my superannuation transfer from Australia next year turning 60. Many countries facing cost of living along with population issues like Japan & Italy. 50 + retirement Thailand easy.

[@thainoi888]

awesome life for you! many Aussie will follow

[@deplorabled1695]

Lindsay you made an excellent choice. I am in Jomtien and enjoy a quality of life that I could only dream of. I love the fact that I can catch a bus for peanuts to the airport and within a few hours and very cheaply I can fly anywhere in Asia.

[@juliedurlak]

That’ll be me in 2026 in Thailand retired at 52 yo 😊

[@Lindsaybkk]

@@juliedurlak need advice AseanNow for News/Forum for expats. Good Luck ✌

[@B_Evo]

Im on the cusp of retirement myself. (country) home owner and debt free...often consider overseas retirement options...early 60s age...school teacher...sick of work and sick of present Aussie govt leftist crap! I dont qualify for Aussie pension thanks to deeming rules...a lifetime of paying taxes and this is how we get thanked ...just because we choose to save rather than spend! Even NZ pays the pension no questions asked to residents at 65yrs... but nope, Aussie dont do that!

[@carmen47freixas96]

I was born in Barcelona, moved to OZ with my parents at age 14 in 1961. I have been back many times, wish that I could go back home, I speak Catalan, because with my parents, that's all we spoke till their death, I did 10 years of schooling with the Spanish language and now for the last 63 years it's all English, with my late hubby, he was born in Greece,. so with our children, English was the way, If I go back for good (too late now) but I thought about it for the last 10 years, then, what to do with a daughter who is so close to me. Sometimes, we cannot do what we want, thank you

[@missco89]

Bon dia! Bring your daughter here to Barcelona! My husband and I moved here from Sydney, we love it, it was super easy to settle in! People are nice and life is affordable. It has really increased in the last two years in Barcelona, but it's still about 20-30% cheaper than Sydney. Our social calendar is full and there's plenty to do and see here. If your roots are calling you, you won't regret it. Mucha suerte!

[@carmen47freixas96]

@@missco89 Bon dia, I wish, I have been back 7 times, 3 months at a time, I am not religious, but Montserrat it's always my 1st stop, I was actually born in Premia de Mar, next to the beach,the train at the door and always going to Blanes and Tossa de Mar I still have friends there from my school days, enjoy.... I love my Horchata ORXATA, abracades maca, passa un bon dia, Adeu,

[@josephj6521]

@@carmen47freixas96could you move to Spain 4 to 6 months every year and stay here near your daughter for 6 to 8 months per year? Is that feasible? Alternatively, could you go back to Europe yearly but stay in a different place to enjoy the experience: Spain, next year France then Italy then Greece then Croatia then Portugal and rotate? It’s something I’d love to do. Spend months overseas in retirement and come back for our kiddies with their kiddies.

[@carmen47freixas96]

@@josephj6521 I have done all those Countries, my late husband was born in Greece, came to OZ age 10 in1954, to do that now it would cost me heaps, money that I don't have, besides at 77, nothing is as easy, I am very thankful that I did my travelling from the age of 14 to the last time 7 years ago. my daughter is in Melbourne, I have been going to Darwin these last 4 years, from May to August, staying with a friend, it's tropical there, so, I have not had a Winter in 4 years, stay well, enjoy life and enjoy your youth, I miss mine. xo

[@caraes81]

That is the Australian reputation demage coming around the corner. How sad Australian property market is at the moment. driving people out of the country at retirement. .

[@MrAtor95]

I'm Spanish, in my twenties, living in Australia since 2015. 😅 If you live in Spain and receive money from overseas, you can live a good life. However, if you try to work there, there's a high chance you'll struggle. Life is much better here in Australia if you're of working age. That's why many Spaniards are living in Australia nowadays. Our economy is terrible, and we are emigrating to have a better life. By the way, she is living in a small town in the poorest region of Spain, not in a big town, probably because she can't afford it. But good for her, better living there than struggling here...

[@norahohrt4922]

MrAtor95 I live in a very wealthy area of Andalucia, although there is a lot of Andalucia that is poor. It is not a small town and I have a fantastic lifestyle, theatre, galleries, travel to cities, great food, 4 restaurants with Michelin Stars 20 minutes from me. So it is totally civilized. I could afford to live in a larger town but would not have the space, garden, plunge pool etc that I have here. Save your money and come back to Spain to retire and live like a king! Norah Ohrt

[@Answersonapostcard]

Salaries are higher in the UK but the food is terrible, weather is awful, and cost of living is a lot higher than in Spain. There are good jobs in Spain but all depends on what your skills are. There is a lot of competition for the low skilled jobs. This is the same in the UK and other places.

[@indiahooi7225]

Well said - Spain is a wonderful place and no doubt an excellent option for retirement for those coming from certain countries. But for a working person it can be a struggle - I'm an Australian who worked in Spain for 4 years and found it more difficult to save money than any other country I've lived in. There's less financial freedom and aspects such as the beaurocracy and taxes for freelancers/business owners, and the "oposiciones" system of exams for public sector jobs, can make it very difficult for people in certain careers.

[@jesusfernandezgarcia9449]

I once saw that poverty was not having internet or not being able to go on vacation... my grandparents or my parents were poor then. But they could sit on a terrace and have a coffee with their friends without worrying too much... Kim Jong Un can't, but he believes that he lives well. Poverty is not just about money.

[@innis8180]

You’ve touched the point, I’ve been looking for this comment. Many people fail to understand a very simple concept - for the majority of people, you either choose to live in a high paying high cost country like Australia, or a low cost but low paying country like Spain. Affordability always comes at the expense of the entire or part of the working population. For young people if they have the choice I believe they will no doubt choose to live in Australia

[@kifkroker6483]

I'm a Norwegian dude that lived and worked for a year in Oz 2009. I loved the country and it's people. What I didn't like was the insane prices of food, cigarettes, utilities and of course the mega overpriced real estates... and this was 2009!!! I wanted so bad to live in Oz, and thx to my medical profession I could have remained and eventually get a permanent residence. But because of high costs on pretty much everything, I had to make the very hard decision not to. I still have friends in Oz and they keep me up to date on the status quo, and then there's the internet of course. I miss Oz and my friends there a lot. However, due to the beyond insane costs 2024 in Oz, I simply can't live there. On vacation and visiting friends and former coworkers yes, but to live there no. And mind you I lived both in big cities and far out in the country side, again thx to my job. For sure, it was cheaper on the country side, but not that much compared to the big cities. Just like Oz in 2024, Europe 2024 is also very expensive, but manageable compared to Oz. I simply wouldn't afford the same lifestyle in Oz as I have today in Norway.

[@FollowEman]

I absolutely agree with her decision. ❤

[@korolev23]

This speaks volumes as to what we have allowed Australia to become over the last 30 years. We have lost the plot.

[@ThePossumone]

So lovely to read your comments Norah and see your life over there Im sure like everywhere there are problems or irritations at times Leaving family would be hard I love that old people are treated with respect we should all do the same But i love Western Australia my beautiful coastal life and find people warm and friendly here We are all so blessed when we havr choices ❤

[@anaussieinvietnam]

This is a window to a bigger picture. Australia doesnt want old people to live in Australia. Older Australians are a weight on the Government purse. There are so many other costs over and above the Pension. But the back side is that you need to live in place where there are large proportion of living poor. I dont disagree with doing this but I do get frustrated that Australia has failed to support our people who have given their lives to Australia.

[@allinadaysworkhakunamatata9187]

Essentially when they worked and paid taxes

[@viviennepastor3188]

Australia politicians do not care about the elderly only the young. I am sick of it.

[@eat_ze_bugs]

@@viviennepastor3188 Yeah nah, not even the young are getting support. Many of them are homeless or living in poverty struggling to survive every day.

[@Mel-dc7ix]

Hit the nail on the head with this comment, 7 News just exploiting this person and their situation to entice other aging Australians to relocate; therefore not having to pay for their medical, pension etc. when they get older.

[@tyvid]

Unless you are wealthy at retirement in Australia with your own home as well, life is financially tough for a retiree. The only upside of living in Oz is free public healthcare and subsidized medicines. Otherwise, it is awfully miserable, terribly expensive and hideously lonely for a retiree with no family, or even with a family, Australian culture is not one to nurture elderly and take care of them. Been in Thailand several times and met so many elderly expats who enjoy life, mostly on their pensions, still needing to live a bit frugal, but far more ability to eat out, a much much greater social life, something to live for, happiness, some excitement, going out, affordable activities from time to time. Downside is the healthcare issues - expat insurance very expensive and pre-existing conditions not covered. If you are not covered you need to be self insured (out of pocket payments). Intensive care for a few weeks and you could easily be over $100k AUD. So many retirees who get too old or it gets too expensive to pay for insurance just accept to die and not be treated. Thailand for eg. generally has a duty to save your life in an emergency, but many hospitals may even refuse the ambulance admitting you during cardiac arrest unless they find an insurance card and verify you are covered. And lifesaving surgeries won't proceed unless there is money in the hospital's account. They will wheel a sick person to the ATM/bank if needed. And many retirees there have burnt their bridges to their home country. No home back there, no family, no way to afford to live there again. Destitution basically back in their home country. Known a few who suicided as a result of being forced to face returning to their home country. We call it the 'flying club' here. Spain is definitely another option for me. I don't want to die a lonely poor old man in Australia.

[@zed5129]

Yep, this is very much where I am too.

[@darlenealvarezfasolo5522]

I plan to retire in Spain too if I can! Thank you for sharing your lovely home and congratulations for your courageous decision. Be safe and happy! Loved this video.

[@captainhickey2608]

Norah, well done. You found you're happy place and built a life there, hopefully you showed many others the possibilities. All the best.

[@HJones-pi5bs]

Well done! You are an inspiration!

[@SoundOfOceanBlue]

I have traveled and lived away from home most of my life and can’t imagine going through all the immigration, all the visa stuff, having to learn a new language, moving personal belongings and moving house all in my retirement age, it sounds so stressful. Hats off to anyone who manages to accomplish all this. I’m just going to retire with my brother down in Albany.

[@gerryburntwood9617]

I’ve lived and worked on 4 continents and you are right I’ve lost the enthusiasm of moving again, even though my brother who lives between UK Spain tells me to move to Spain! Maybe ………..

[@jamest3085]

those things can be beneficial to a retiree. Once retired your brain can go from not using it as much as when working. Moving to anther country and learning a language would help with longevity I feel

[@joli395]

@@jamest3085 I agree.

[@outdoor75]

I'm already setup to retire overseas since I've been in my late 20s as been working overseas since then and don't ever see myself retiring in oz. As it's simply too expensive to retire in oz and be in a place that has all the conveniences and healthcare as good as where I am in Asia. The retirement homes around the area I'm originally from in Sydney ask for deposits of 800k to 1m to get a spot there. Forget that.

[@hppavilionf50]

What the financial advisor was trying to explain, but this piece missed skipped over was: "who is going to help you when you need help? who can you trust to help you when you cannot speak for or defend yourself?" That is a genuine issue when retiring in another country and not having younger family members or close friends that can be trusted with your healthcare and financial decisions.

[@XC-Z-cv8qw]

Lol as if Spain doesn't have a much better healthcare system and as if Australia has a better retirement care plan.

[@Mantras-and-Mystics]

What family? I have no-one who gives two hoots about me.

[@adammorra3813]

@@Mantras-and-Mysticsmake a new one.

[@dhgemein2]

Whether the healthcare is good is not the point here, @@XC-Z-cv8qw. If you become incapacitated, mentally or physically or both, who will take care of you and make decisions on your behalf? You need to find an answer to that question regardless of your location.

[@bezsie8518]

Who cares about family if I have the money to pay a caretaker or an accountant?

[@DaveIngelson]

I enjoyed this story and it makes sense if someone is just living off a minimum pension but if you have personal assets or savings or want to have a part-time or hobby career in retirement, Spain is NOT the place for you. Between the freelance bureaucracy, tax bureaucracy, income and wealth taxes, you'll quickly realize 50% of your income is going to the Spanish government.

[@ufosrus]

You made a very good point. Assets are heavily taxed in Spain. I don't know how this lady gets around it.

[@norahohrt4922]

@@ufosrus ,,," I get around it" because I have no assets apart from my home here.

[@VvLam-xw5nc]

Just checked with GPT it seems all assets (in Australia & Spain-Martos) including own residence

[@aaronfarley14]

What a reality check this should be for the Australian 🇦🇺 government!!!

[@charlie-ot5ug]

Why? It is cheaper for Aussie taxpayers to have these people relocate overseas in their twilight years so they don't burden our hospital system.

[@alwayslearning7672]

Oz has the same climate and half the population of Spain's. It should be possible, but the culture has become Americanised in Oz...so doomed.

[@JaneNewAuthor]

Seriously thinking about doing the same. I have friends in many countries. Tired of being poor in Australia.

[@alexwhite2265]

It given me food for thought

[@Lesloi6227]

Me too

[@alfonsomatute3898]

My mother in law lives just on a street right over you. I recogniced the place instantly :). She bought her house for 19.000€ five years ago, smaller than yours and darker, but ridiculously cheap. Gotta say that the neighborhood is poor (but not dangerous), with all that It implies. It has it's problems. But you can definitely live for little money. It would be great if more people like you goes to live there.

[@norahohrt4922]

@alfonsomatute3898....the area I live in is called the Casco Historico, as you probably know. Don't be fooled by thinking it is a poor neighbourhood, you have no idea what is behind the doors!

[@alfonsomatute3898]

@@norahohrt4922 ahah, yes, that's true. Sorry if I didn't expressed well (I'm Spanish). I meant that the prices may be so low in this area due to factors like old houses, very steep & narrow streets, difficult to move by car... people there tend to live in the lower area where all the services are. As prices are low, you can find a mix of people in different circumstances. I totally agree that I may surprise on what's behind doors ;)

[@PotterHarryPot]

Lived there for an amazing 5 years, we are now in Sydney, and my partner is already planning to head back to Spain. We both have Spanish, Australian, Filo citizenship.

[@karenmcc2197]

Good for you Norah 👏

[@TravellingSinceIWasABaby]

Agreed 👍 .Excellent video

[@KarlRock]

Good for you Norah. Enjoy! ❤

[@virgismar]

Im glad she found happiness ❤ Spain is truly special

[@sandokan2petrolis577]

I know Martos where she lives, affordable place, very hot in the summer, and good food 😚

[@A-Moma]

That is because Australia meek it so hard for the on people the rent is going up and up and up and no one cere to talk about it and socially for single people 😢😢😢😢I hope government do some things about it and help the on people 🙏🙏🙏😢😢😢😢😢

[@localjess838]

I love how compact the cities are

[@lcomfort8683]

I love the art in Nora's house!

[@Born2Sing88]

Lived in Thailand for 9 months and after coming back to Australia realised its too expensive.

[@kevinthailand2567]

Good for her. Love it.

[@edwinagolombek3253]

I left Oz in July 2000 with my gorgeous Boxer girl, bound for Spain..I have lived in Marrakech since December 2003 where I have a wicked culinary destination.. I am unable to claim the Australian pension despite working for more than 30 years and being born in Australia..

[@petesmitt]

Good; why should anyone get a pension if they want to move elsewhere? btw, you don't get a pension because you paid taxes for so many years, as you pay taxes annually for the government services, such as roads and Medicare that you are able to use at will.

[@november132]

@@petesmitt because they are a citizen. it's their right. better than giving that money to illegals or other countries!!

[@petesmitt]

@@november132 Just being a citizen doesn't entitle you to an aged pension but I agree with you about the rest of your point..

[@zed5129]

@@petesmitt horseshit a good portion of tax goes to paying pensions, and if someone worked 30 years in Aus paying a lot of tax then damn straight they should (and will) still get an aussie pension.

[@petesmitt]

@@zed5129 There is no specific tax fund for aged pensions and pensions are means tested, so only poor people get the age pension, even if they have never paid income tax.

[@jennycokerart]

How fabulous! Congratulations on making the decision for you!👏💖

[@vee6959]

In a way it is sad that Australians cannot afford to retire in their own country. It says a lot about Australia, unfortunately.

[@user-hq6hb2xv4n]

Spain is quite big for Europen standards and is very diverse. Spain's Atlantic coast is actually longer than the Mediterranean one, the country is very rugged, there are mountains everywhere and there are big differences climate-wise and culturally. Most Spaniards live in cities and the big cities in Spain are very modern and developed (maybe even more than Australia's) and the stereotypical "Spain" most foreign people are looking for only exists in some regions of rural Andalucía .

[@mr.relampagonegro2107]

The American "dream" was not for me so when I had the opportunity to get out, flee, run away from the United States I took it. That was in 1992 and I have not looked back since. Not a day goes by when I don't regret my decision to leave the U.S. for a better life in Europe. I was "illegal" for seven years until the Spanish government offered an amnesty program and it was then that I got my papers in order. I fell in love, learned a new language and took advantage of the opportunity of being "reborn" and made a new life for myself. I travel for a living so I am able to compare what life can be like in other countries compared to life in Spain and I can say with all the confidence in the world "se vive muy bien en España" (you live very well in Spain). I am always fascinated by people like Norah who don't sit around saying I wish I wish I wish but do instead. It takes gumption and a lot of it to pick up and leave all that is familiar to you but in my case it was by far, one of, if not the best decisions I have ever made in my life.

[@kvhjaen]

I am glad you are having a great time in Jaen! Only cool people appreciate it!

[@Billywoo12]

Amazing woman. Trailblazer!

[@deplorabled1695]

For about a third of the price of a modest house in the burbs, I own a large and spacious condo in Thailand. It has a large pool and within a few minutes walk I have everything I could ever need. I love it and am going to retire there.

[@legend6463]

Pattaya?

[@deplorabled1695]

@@legend6463 Jomtien.

[@tasmangirl]

15 years in Australia , french and australian citizen , i am back to France near the spanish border . Australia was great but too expensive and too boring . I live like a queen in europe i was struggling in Australia and very hard to make friends .

[@easyartisan]

I so want to move to Europe .I live in New Zealand and am 61 and dream of living in Spain or Greece every single day. This was so inspiring. Can I ask how old you were when you moved over Norah ? How hard was obtaining the visa ?

[@norahohrt4922]

@easyartisan Visa wasnt difficult just miles of paper work. I had just turned 65. No regrets after 11 years still happy!

[@easyartisan]

@@norahohrt4922 thank you ..I think it might be more difficult now but it gives me hope !

[@LGandM]

Nice story, good for her for making a better life for herself elsewhere. Seems like the interviewer was just dying to find some negatives to bring her down.

[@Answersonapostcard]

They just want to keep people trapped in the system. Heaven forbid someone who thinks for themselves.

[@norahohrt4922]

@LGandM The interviewer was great, she just tried to get as many aspects into the story as possible, anticipating the questions later. The Financial advisor whas a bit of a Twit!

[@HH-fo9sg]

She is lovely and has a great life!

[@MarcusDaGrand]

I'm from Canada and will be doing the exact same thing. I will retire to Spain and buy a house there. Quality of life, at last!

[@carlosherce6115]

Many foreigners are moving here to Valencia to enjoy an outstanding living. Really good weather, safe, good health care, well connected to other European cities, galleries, concerts, nice beaches, rally an international hotspot and cheap. Even cheaper than northern Spain where I come from.

[@Mollyandmaxdogs]

I am definitely checking Spain out it looks Devine

[@user-vu3qg7sc3j]

Sounds fantastic ❤

[@Travel-Around4]

Good luck Spain it’s beautiful country and lovely people too ❤ Saludos desde Finlandia 🇫🇮

[@rafhadalto]

I'm already living abroad for over 10 years. When I retired I might as well look for a location with more affordable living costs. Spain and Italy might be among the choices

[@13thbiosphere]

Cost of real estate in Australia has become ridiculous like a pyramid scheme

[@ramlinshoes]

Just read about how hard it is for Spaniards to find housing because of all the foreigners taking over the apartments.

[@Answersonapostcard]

Its AirBnB that is doing that - holiday lets and often from Spanish landlords.