• Adrian Spencer's manufacturing career led him to live and work across five continents, from China to the US. • When he retired in 2025, he and his wife, Beverley, decided to settle down in Penang, Malaysia. • They chose Malaysia for its established visa program, and say they lead an active social life.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Adrian Spencer, a 69-year-old retiree living in Penang, Malaysia, with his wife. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I've always had a taste for adventure.

I was born and raised in and around London. When I graduated from high school, I worked the night shift in a factory and managed to save some money.

I wanted to go on holiday to America, but I couldn't get a visa. So, at 19, I ended up going to Mauritius. It was a big

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