Hello there:
I too am looking to retire next year and have been looking at the Liguria province - Northwest of Italy - close to France... the little provinces I have been checking out are quite amazing, it is Imperia -Ventimiglia or Bordighera - I am not sure which one yet.

My name is Sally and I live in the States (New Mexico).. because I speak fluent Italian (also French and Arabic) it will be a little better than some but still a challenge to learn what all I have to do (paperwork etc...) to get there... But check it out and see if it is something that you might consider. The beaches and palm trees (yes palm trees - bought from the Arabs in the 1400 in the Bordighera area) were Claude Monet's favorite.... let me know if you need more info, I will be happy to share what I know.

Thank you for and looking forward to making many new friends SOON!!!
Sally