Malta has featured sixth in the index of the best places to retire for Americans, compiled by Forbes/International Living.

The Annual Global Retirement Index uses input from a team of correspondents and data on climate, health care, cost of living, and other factors, such as 'fitting in' where Malta scores a top 100 points. 

Malta also performs strongly because of its climate, low crime rate, the use of the English language, history, and easy connections to Europe.

The cost of buying a property is seen as among the most expensive, although bargains can still be found, the magazine says. One would however question its claim that Malta has 'world-class golf courses'. It also says Malta has First-World standards of service and infrastructure.

Ecuador comes first thanks to the low cost of its real estate, diversity and a generous array of benefits the government has afforded to retirees. 

Among the European destinations, only Spain comes before Malta.

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