 Expat Life - Our JourneyAs 2023 draws to a close, we reflect back on the incredible journey we embarked on almost a decade ago. Tired of the monotony of a traditional 9-5 lifestyle, our family set out to find a new home and a new way of living. We dreamed of a life by the beach and made it our mission to make it a reality. This year was just one step in that journey, but what an eventful and transformative step it was. We vividly remember sitting around the dinner table all those years ago, discussing our dream of finding a highly developed country with affordable living costs and a favorable tax system. And so, we began our quest to discover the perfect place for us. Over the past few years, we have explored and shared our experiences in numerous countries such as Portugal, Mexico, Belize, Panama, Ecuador, Spain, and many others. And there are still more destinations on our list waiting to be discovered! As we eagerly plan for the future, here is a list of our top ten picks for the best countries for Americans looking to relocate from the USA. 10 Best Countries for ExpatsAfter years of exploration and research, we have compiled our 2023 "Best Countries for Expats" list of our top ten picks for the best countries for Americans looking to relocate from the USA. These countries offer a combination of affordability, safety, culture, and quality of life that make them ideal destinations for those seeking a new home. 1. Mexico With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Mexico offers an enticing lifestyle for Americans looking to retire or work remotely. The cost of living is low compared to the US, and there are many expat-friendly communities throughout the country. 2. Spain Spain is a great option for those looking to experience a European lifestyle without spending excessive amounts of money. Compared to other EU countries, the cost of living in Spain is relatively affordable while still providing all the necessary amenities. This makes it an ideal choice for retirees. Additionally, if you have a stable income to support yourself and wish to immigrate to Spain, you can easily apply for a non-lucrative residence visa. 3. Portugal Known for its charming towns, stunning coastlines, and delicious food and wine, Portugal has become a popular destination for expats. The cost of living is affordable, the healthcare system is top-notch, and there are many options for residency visas. 4. Belize Located in Central America with a Caribbean vibe, Belize offers a tropical paradise for American expats. It has a laid-back lifestyle, English as its official language, and plenty of affordable housing options. El Salvador's Rising Star
6. Costa Rica
Famous for its eco-tourism opportunities and high-quality healthcare system, Costa Rica also offers a great climate year-round and a friendly community for expats. 7. Ecuador Ecuador is an affordable option for those looking to retire on a budget without sacrificing quality of life. It has a diverse landscape with everything from colonial cities to beachfront towns. 8. Panama Panama is known as one of the easiest places in the world to obtain residency as an American expat. It boasts a stable economy, excellent banking, and beautiful landscapes ranging from beaches to mountains, and a low cost of living. 9. Malaysia Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is known for its warm climate, affordable healthcare, and beautiful beaches. English is widely spoken, making it easy for Americans to adapt. 10. UAE The United Arab Emirates has been a top choice for American tourists and expats due to its impressive, modern infrastructure. Dubai, in particular, offers tax-free salaries and a diverse community, making it a desirable place to live for individuals of all ages. The job market is thriving, with a variety of career opportunities available for people at all levels of experience. These ten countries offer a variety of options for Americans looking to relocate from the USA. From tropical beaches to European charm, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether you are seeking an affordable retirement destination or a new place to work remotely, these countries provide opportunities for adventure and an improved quality of life.  This is a reader testimonial from Tim, who relocated to Merida with his wife in 2023. Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the fruits of our labor. For many, it's also a chance to explore new places and cultures. When my wife and I started thinking about where we wanted to retire, we knew we wanted a place with warm weather, affordable living costs, and a rich history. After much research and consideration, we found our perfect retirement destination: Mérida, Mexico. My wife and I retired early and moved to Merida in January 2023.
First, I joined numerous online Facebook groups dedicated to expats and Mexican locals. And I learned as much as I could about the city itself and the surrounding areas. Located in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mérida is the capital city of the state of Yucatán. It boasts a population of nearly one million people and has been deemed the safest city in Mexico for several years running. These factors were important to us as safety was a top priority in our search for a retirement destination. But beyond its safety record, there are several other reasons why Mérida stood out to us as an ideal place to retire. One of the most appealing aspects was its affordability. The cost of living in Mérida is significantly lower than many other retirement destinations in North America or Europe. This allows retirees to stretch their retirement savings further and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. "Hey," my wife called from the kitchen, "are you telling them about our first attempt at this adventure?" "Of course! How could I not?" I smiled, reminiscing about our first arrival three years ago, which was just a vacation that turned into much more. Our excitement had been palpable as we eagerly rolled our suitcases down the narrow streets, ready to explore every nook and cranny of our new city. Little did we know that a global pandemic was looming on the horizon, threatening to upend our plans. We planned to use Mexico as a base to live our dream of traveling in South America and Central America. We visited Merida for the first time three years ago, and instantly fell in love with the city. Our rented Airbnb was large and had an outside terrace so we could spend more time in the fresh air. It was the start of the pandemic and things were restricted everywhere. "We made the most of it." My wife smiled softly, recalling the time we'd spent learning Spanish and reassessing our situation. A few months later, we flew home to the United States, reflecting on our whirlwind adventures before leaving Mexico behind. We just couldn’t stop thinking about the beauty and peace of the Yucatan. We never stopped thinking about returning to Mexico, and we did it in early 2023. We pulled the trigger and did it! We flew down to Merida in January 2023, signed a long term lease, and have been enjoying the Yucatan and all its charms ever since! Armed with experience and wisdom, we are ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs of our retirement, and pursue our dreams. |
No website or company has paid a fee to be mentioned in this blog. Any suggestions you see are based solely on our own experiences and personal preferences.
About UsJust a middle-class family with three young kids, looking to escape the rat race. This is our journey! If you have a question for us, please contact us directly using our email here.
Archives
September 2024
|
RSS Feed