Brits retiring abroad are increasingly looking to try a new way of life rather than moving straight to an expat community, which could benefit investors with property overseas.

Research by NatWest International Personal Banking found that moving abroad is still a popular choice with retirees, with western European nations such as Spain and France and long-haul destinations such as Australia and the US remaining firm favourites.

According to the study, 92 per cent of retirees living abroad do not live in an established expatriate community, while over half (56 per cent) of those that do live in such an area did not consider it to be a determining factor when choosing where to set up home.

Dave Isley, head of NatWest International Personal Banking, said: "Looking at retirees who decide to move abroad, it is enlightening that 92 per cent of expats chose not to retire to a designated expat community. This seems to emphasise the notion that expats have retained a sense of adventure, they really do want to start afresh and experience life as a local rather than settle with other expats."

Recent research by Aon Consulting highlighted that over half of Brits hope to retire abroad.