The decision to move abroad, for whatever reason, is a huge life choice. It’s not something that can, or should, be made overnight. If you’re at the ‘should I or shouldn’t I?’ stage, you’re most likely overwhelmed by confusing ideas and information. Here’s a simple 4-point guide to put you on track to choosing your new home.
Make a plan
Need to study in your new home? Could Salamanca University be the place? Copyright CC User Lawrence OP on Flickr
Before you even open a map, think about why you are moving to a new country. Is the aim of living abroad to start working abroad too? If so, you need to find somewhere that suits your skills set and where you will be able to obtain a working visa.
If you plan to study abroad, you must seek a place with suitable colleges whose entry requirements you are able to meet. Retirees need to think about whether they will want to do any kind of voluntary work.
Will you be comfortable there?
Would the political instability put you off living in a city like Egypt? Copyright CC User Matthias Lambrecht on Flickr
Political, economic and lifestyle considerations need to be taken into account.
No one seeks to live in a politically unstable country but a lot depends on personal definitions of ‘instability’. Countries like Egypt and Thailand have both had democratically elected governments overthrown in recent years but foreigners continue to be attracted to them as places to live and work.
You need to make sure that the country meets a level of security and safety will enable you to live there without being in a constant state of anxiety. Things to check include the emergency health care provision, crime rate and whether your native country has a consulate in place.
Likewise, the provision of healthcare: do you, or any other members of your family, have any medical issues that require constant access to first-world doctors and hospitals? This might mean investing in substantial medical insurance. Do you have children? Where are they going to go to school, are you going to need to set aside money for that too?
When estimating living costs be realistic: factor in fluctuating exchange rates if you play on using currency like dollars, sterling or euros. And remember that not all countries have low inflation. You might find yourself living in a country were prices go up on a daily basis.
The new versus the known
Do you seek the familiar or the exotic, like the Bazaar in Marrakech? Copyright CC User Marco Derksen on Flickr
A beloved holiday destination often sparks the first thoughts of moving permanently abroad. And indeed, it’s a good idea to travel widely enough to get to know the kind of places you really like. You may have made friends at different locations around the globe, or have family members that have already moved somewhere. All of these things can help with your choice.
The distance between your new and old home countries might be another important factor if it’s important to you to keep in contact with relatives and old friends. Bear in mind that flights and shipping costs can be considerably more expensive between certain destinations than others.
Do you want to settle somewhere familiar, where you already know people and the cultural norms, or in a place where part of the adventure is exploring and engaging with a new place?
If you choose the latter, do your homework and read up about the country’s history. Try to learn at least a little of the language before you go. Be prepared for things to go wrong and to have your preconceptions shattered – that is, after all, part of the experience.
Do your research on the ground
A ‘fact finding’ trip to Thailand could definitely have its advantages! Copyright CC User Lee LeFever on Flickr
Once you’ve settled on a country or region you think you might want to call home, it’s a good idea to undertake at least one ‘fact finding’ trip. There are also lots of regional Internet sites that you can use to seek the views and advice both of locals and ex-pats already in residence. You can even start an online correspondence with some of them; you might even make some new friends!
Don’t overlook the importance of the cultural norms of your intended new home.
Are you ok about living in a country where the death penalty is part of the penal code? If you’re planning to live in a conservative Middle Eastern country, are you comfortable with the fact that they will require modesty of dress for women and limit the places that alcohol may be purchased, served and consumed.
As with many things in life, to be forewarned is forearmed. You will almost certainly experience many surprises if you choose to live abroad – but a bit of careful planning early on will help ensure that as many of them as possible are positive ones.
Author Bio:
This is written by Alex Bradbeer, the creator and author of Finding The Freedom, an adventure travel blog focused on adventure and crazy off the beaten path destinations.
