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5 Best Islands to Live On for Starting Over

  • Updated: September 15, 2011

If you want a fresh start or a new life in retirement, consider these ISLANDS magazine editors’ picks including New Zealand and more from the Best Islands to Live On rankings.

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New Zealand “The North Island is vast enough that I never get island fever,” says Larry Prosor, an expat who calls the island home. “It’s the size of California but with 4 million people instead of 35 million.” Daily mountain-bike rental from Bikey’s shop in Gisborne: $28. Thinkstock
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Itamaracá, Brazil “We have two seasons, summer and summer with a bit of rain,” says resident Peter Zorab. Coconuts, mangoes and fruits you’ve never heard of grow wild near the reef-calmed ocean. meal at a “kilo restaurant”: $6. Fixer-upper on the beach: $95,000. Return to Main Page Thinkstock
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Réunion Island Americans are rarer here than perfect, white-sand beaches; islanders may ask, “Do you know 50 Cent?” Try roasted hedgehog at any roadside camion. Mortar and pestle made from local lava to grind spices so hot you’ll forget you’re eating hedgehog: $55. Return to Main Page Thinkstock
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Hvar, Croatia Which comes first, espresso in the morning at the Café Pjaca on the square or shots of rakija by night at Caroe Diem on the wharf? Believe it or not, this is one of the Adriatic’s laid-back islands. One-hour ferry to picturesque Split with all Europe beyond: $4. Return to Main Page Thinkstock
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Corn Islands Turn 45; show $450 monthly income; retire to Nicaragua’s English-speaking islands, with low-cost housing and a castaway vibe. “This is the magical place we call home,” says Garry Lesesne. Day-trip to volcanoes, cloud forests, ancient cultures. Big lobster dinner: $12. Return to Main Page Thinkstock
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