When we’re in the midst of cold weather, a lot of people start thinking about retiring in warmer climates. Here’s what you need to know to make the dream of living abroad a reality.

Start with resources like International Living and AngloINFO, which offer information for English-speaking expatriates.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to expats and ask them the hard questions about the cost of living, healthcare, and activities in their area.

Word of mouth is one of the best ways to get real-time information about specific communities.

Get professional legal advice before making any decisions. Not only do visa requirements vary among countries, but local laws may affect your will or legal matters.

Before you travel, be sure to register your information with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program—aka STEP .

That helps the U.S. government, embassies, and consulates keep track of you and provide you with up-to-date information in case of emergencies. If something goes wrong, it can also help you stay in contact with friends and family.

For more information, visit the Senior Travel archives or the Passport, Visa & Customs archives.

Keep reading for more travel tips.