I’ve never been to Ashville. But I hear that it’s quite nice with a thriving downtown. It’s a little isolating in my view.
Qwerty007, if you’re looking for a place overseas to retire then I think that Singapore will meet all your requirements. Except that the country is predominently ethnic Chinese so culturally, it might not be ideal for a Westerner. Everyone speaks English in Singapore and the medical facilities are first rate. Biotech is thriving. There is no crime.
The Sands Casino is building a mega casino in Singapore so it’s a Las Vegas in the making (with good potential for real estate appreciation)
Banking is first rate so you’ll always have ready access to your hard earned money.