Retirement is the opportunity to realize your dreams -- if you play it right.

Here are some of the best insights for retirement planning from columnist at the New York Times.

Yes and no. Join AARP to monitor topics that affect you. But don't buy AARP-sponsored products before you've comparison-shopped for the best deal.

Some people conduct days of research to buy a $40 toaster but just click online to invest 10 grand in a mutual fund.The best way to get unbiased and informed advice on both is Consumer Reports. Take a look.

Replacing income in retirement is tricky. Annuities offer one way but is it right for you? Take a look.

No sense in living long if you don't live well. Focus on your health.

Don't become an old coot! Feed your brain and keep learning.

A common question as one approaches retirement is whether to pay off a mortgage or not. Here's a smart analysis.

These basic technologies will help you to navigate your world.

Seriously. If retirement means doing nothing don't retire. Here's what to do.

There are lots of excellent retirement calculators that will help you determine your readiness. Try a few by Googling or start with an easy one.

If you really want to dig into the nuts and bolts of retirement income and planning visit the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College.