4 of the Best Destinations To Live As An Expat

Where to live and work overseas

If you’re tired of your old job or looking for a new environment, then you may have considered leaving your home country in search of pastures new, but choosing a new destination to live as an expat can be overwhelming. There are many conflicting factors which you must consider when it comes to relocating, such as potential job opportunities, childcare and quality of life, so choosing a destination which suits your lifestyle and career goals is vital.

Whether you are searching for a warmer climate, an easier way of life or a more lucrative job market, there are many foreign countries which are favoured by expats, some of which are more popular than others.

Switzerland

Switzerland is a hugely popular destination for expats, with offers of exciting employment packages and a high living standard. On average, the income for expats can reach up to $144,748 per year. However, higher salaries are necessary in Switzerland due to higher costs of living, such as food shopping, healthcare and accommodation. Switzerland is a highly sought after expat location, due to its stunning scenery, with plenty to do in summer and winter. Travel is easily accessible and the central-Europe location means that it is just a short train ride from many other countries, such as Italy, Germany and France.

Australia

Many people who visit Australia and experience the laid back way of life often don’t want to leave, thanks to the warm climate and beautiful beaches. With the lack of language barrier, making friends, going for interviews and socializing is easier than it is in most expat-favored countries. If you are planning on moving with your family, then Australia also ranks highly due to the wide range of schooling choices, low crime rate and recreational activities. The low population levels and high quality of life are just a couple of the reasons as to why Australia is a popular destination for expats.

Portugal

Portugal offers expats a very good quality of life, thanks to the great year-round climate and welcoming locals, but it is mostly a destination for older expats who are searching for some warmth and relaxation as they come to the end of their careers. In a recent study, Portugal ranked 8th out of 68 countries for quality of life, so it isn’t surprising that so many expats choose to live there.

The cost of living is fairly standard, and many expats find they get more for their money here, which also means great living accommodation. Many expats choose to provide a better quality of life for themselves in Portugal, choosing spacious apartments and luxury villas, Vale Do Lobo and Quinta do Lago prove to be popular locations thanks to the great amenities.

South Korea

For a unique experience, South Korea is growing in popularity as a destination of choice for expats. The culture is completely different here than in most western-countries, meaning that expats get to submerge themselves in something completely new. Jobs are fairly easy for expats to secure here, particularly in the technology sector, and are usually very well paid.

Many employers provide apartments for employees, meaning that living costs are even lower. Due to the population of expats, there are many tight-knit communities in South Korea, which means it is fairly easy to make new friends and socialize. Healthcare is also fairly cheap in South Korea and offers a great standard of health care, with most doctors speaking in English and the education system has been rated excellent, so is ideal if you want to move with your family.

Written by: Paul Matthews, BOSS Contributor

Paul Matthews is a Manchester-based business and tech writer who writes in order to better inform business owners on how to run a successful business. You can usually find him at the local library or browsing Forbes’ latest pieces. He’s currently working closely with a business van leasing company.