People often dream of traveling the world. Then life happens: you get a job, get married, have children, and suddenly you're so tied down that you fear your dream will always be just that. But there's a light at the end of the tunnel, and it's called retirement.

What you hoped to experience for a short time during your youth can actually become a part of your lifestyle during your golden years. These countries have it all, from beaches to mountains, from great climate to affordability. Here is a list of the top five countries to retire in that offer the best quality lifestyle for a reasonable price.

5. Spain

Spain has long been seen as Europe's best bargain, especially since the recession has made real estate prices plummet. Whether you plan on buying or renting, prices are generally much more affordable than they were decades ago. For example, you can buy a beach condo for $150,000 or less, or rent an apartment in touristic places like Alicante starting at $550. Fruits and vegetables are plentiful here, along with wine and olive oil, staples of the Mediterranean diet. But one of the biggest attractions to Spain is the people and culture. Their friendly and positive disposition is quite contagious.

4. Costa Rica

"Pura vida" is Costa Rica's motto for a reason. The Central American country was voted the world's  happiest country by the Happy Planet Index both in 2012 and 2009. A big reason why so many Americans choose Costa Rica as their new retirement home is because it has become so easy for expats to become citizens. It offers a great program for pensionados, or retirees, with an income of $1,000 or more per month from Social Security, disability benefits, or a pension. Another attraction is Costa Rica's public health system. A monthly payment depending on income qualifies you to get completely free health care, which includes testing, doctor's appointments, prescriptions, and even some major surgeries. No need to worry about prices since most expats' monthly payment is between $50 and $150.

3. Malaysia

While Malaysia is quite far away from the US, the perks of retiring in this country definitely outweigh the long flight. As Asia's number one destination for retirees, Malaysia offers year-round warm weather, with an average of 82 degrees Fahrenheit, and a variety of recreational destinations, from beaches to cool hill stations to mountain retreats. It's also important to note how medically advanced the country is and the fact that almost all physicians speak English, since most of them finished their postgraduate studies in either the United Kingdom or United States. An appointment can cost you as little as $11. Oh, and the advanced infrastructure guarantees high speed internet almost everywhere you go.

2. Ecuador

A close second to our top spot is Ecuador, a country that has been consistently ranked among the best places to retire around the world. On top of the breathtaking scenery, agreeable climate, and all-around affordability, Ecuador is home to some of the nicest people you'll come across. Many expats in Cuenca, a top destination, have reported they live on a budget of $1,500 to $1,800 a month, including rent. The weather is quite favorable; even along the equator, temperatures rarely reach 90 degrees, and it has decidedly less humidity than other Latin American countries.

1. Panama

The number one place in the world to retire is none other than the small country famous for bridging the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Panama rises to the top for many reasons, the first being that it is the only Central American country with a First World city. The capital is booming and offers almost everything you would find in the U.S., from clothes to your favorite foods. English is widely spoken and the official currency is the American dollar, which makes for an easy transition. Panama also boasts a variety of destinations. It has beautiful beaches, golf courses, and hiking routes, not to mention the famous Panama Canal. Most important to mention, however, is the recent regulation called the Pensionado residence program which basically grants residence to anyone with a government or corporate pension. Its main requirement is that your pension must be $1,000 a month, and even that has exceptions. For those without a pension is the affectionately nicknamed  "Friends of Panama" visa program, which offers citizens of 40 different countries residence. Among the requirements are having a bank account with at least $5,000, buying real estate, and having a job in Panama.

So when you're approaching that time of your life when you get to settle down and enjoy retirement, consider taking the adventurous route and choosing a foreign residence. It's never too late to travel, and there is no better way to experience another culture than to live it.