Spain and France Still Favourites with Over-50s

Despite growing interests in emerging markets, the traditional favourites of Spain and France are still the most popular choice for the over-50s, according to new research.

A study from MRI Overseas Property revealed that almost half of this age group would consider Spain and the same number would consider France for buying abroad.

Around 50% of over-50s said that they would consider buying property overseas, with 55% doing so to retire and more than 25% buying property as a holiday home.

The main reasons for over-50s to choose to move abroad would be to downshift to a healthier, more relaxing lifestyle and to enjoy a warmer climate, Easier.com reports.

Chairman of MRI Overseas Property Darragh MacAnthony said that the dream of owning property overseas was one that was still very much alive for those over 50.

The buying criteria for this demographic is somewhat different from those seeking to make a quick profit from emerging markets. They are looking for quality of life in a secure and stable environment, rather opting for the areas with the fastest growth forecast.

In a separate report, The long term health of the French property market appears to be in good shape as France emerged as the world's most popular tourist destination for 2006 for the second year running.

According to DPA, some 78 million foreign visitors travelled to France last year - up 2.7 per cent on 2005, the country's tourism ministry told reporters in Paris.

Another key statistic unveiled by the French authorities was that total revenues raised from foreign tourists rose by 2.5 per cent and now reach €34 billion (£22 billion).

Much of this income is generated by the accommodation industry as tourists always need a place to stay, and with France's ongoing popularity among high-spending travellers, it appears that the rental market remains as strong as it has ever been.