Latest news with #expatlife
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Daily Mail
I moved to Spain to build a new life for myself - here's the biggest challenge I faced
A Brit who moved to Spain and built a new life for himself revealed the biggest challenge he experienced. Lee Thornley, 43, left his job as a barrister and relocated overseas in 2008 with the intention to learn Spanish. There are reportedly some 350,000 British people officially registered as living in Spain, with many attracted by the alluring weather and good food. 'I just thought, I want to change things, and I didn't have any kids and didn't have any mortgages, so I was like I'm just going to go to Spain and learn Spanish,' he told MailOnline Travel. Lee fell in love with the area that his language school was based in, Costa de la Luz, and the benefits he was experiencing from moving countries. 'I felt healthier, I felt happier,' he explained, revealing how he thought at the time that he 'never wanted to go back to London '. The Brit met his now ex-wife, who he shares two children with, and bought land in the area. They built a hotel that became luxury rural hideaway, Casa la Siesta. However, Lee's Spanish journey hasn't always been easy. He admitted one of the biggest challenges he faced was learning the language. 'Language – I think that's probably the biggest challenge you have,' Lee explained. 'You know, your ability to communicate, so getting a good grasp of the Spanish language was probably the first challenge to overcome.' It took Lee 12 months to become completely fluent. 'When you're very much immersed in it, and you have to, then you just do. There's no option. You just have to figure it out,' he said. Another challenge Lee faced was tackling the hotel project, which was a much larger task than he had worked on before. He added: '... I'd done housing projects, but on a much smaller scale, like a regular two bedroom house in York, or we did a house project in Spain as well. 'We had, we had some experience, but nothing like what the scale of the project ended up being. 'So, it was more kind of naivety that, in a positive way, meant that I was confident to go ahead and have a go at it. 'But for sure, once I started on building a much bigger project like that, you realise you've got a lot to learn pretty quickly.' From building the hotel, Lee developed a passion for interior design and went on to found his own tile business. Lee now splits his time between Yorkshire and Spain. He moved back to the UK with his family a few years after his first child was born. 'So when we had our first daughter, we lived out there full time until she was three,' he said. Being away from family and the children not having 'access to their grandparents and them being part of their growing up' was important to both Lee and his wife. 'So it was more family reasons I think, wanting the kids to kind of grow up around a wider family network,' he explained. However, the businessman intends to return to Spain full time in the future. 'Once the kids go off to uni, we'll definitely move back to Spain,' Lee said. As for his tips for those wanting to make the move and start a new life in Spain, Lee emphasises the importance of getting stuck into the local culture. 'It's just really important to kind of integrate yourself as much as possible before you necessarily go in with two feet,' he explained. Getting to know the local people and being seen 'as part of the community' is vital for settling down there. 'I think we did a good job at living out there, learning Spanish, contributing to local economy, making friends, and then after that, actually making that decision as to whether or not to stay,' Lee added. 'I think sometimes I hear people saying "well, we're going to leave our home in the UK because it's worth X and buy something cheaper in Spain, and our life's going to be better". 'And it doesn't always work out, and I don't really think it's a surprise you need to kind of do your do your kind of time on the ground and really understand it before you make that big decision as to whether or not you actually want to live there.'
The Sun
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I moved to a Spanish city where beer is just £1.50 – now I don't waste my evenings away watching EastEnders
A YOUNG woman who was sick of her 'miserable' life decided to ditch her hometown for a sunny Spanish city. Tori Clinton, from Dublin, says her life did a 180 once she moved to Spain and shared her favourite parts of the lifestyle there. 3 3 The 30-year-old has spent the last two years living abroad and said her favourite part was the £1.50 beers on offer. Now in the popular city of Malaga, she said the culture change has drastically improved her life and changed her mindset on booze. Now, she visits her local every day to soak up the sun with a 'cheeky caña'. The small beer only costs £1.50 in Tori's favourite spots, while a pint costs just £2.17. In comparison, the average price of a pint in her hometown is now a whopping £6.42. Tori, who is a freelance worker, says having the odd tipple instead of binge drinking, and embracing a culture where work isn't the be-all and end-all, has allowed her to 'become the best version' of herself. 'I was miserable back home. I look back and wonder how I survived so long in my past life,' Tori told Luxury Travel Daily. 'It is so normal to do things on evenings after work, not just go home like back home and watch EastEnders. 'Going to my local is my favourite time of the day - it's time for me to catch up on some life admin and work, but also check in with myself and journal my thoughts. 'I mean, who doesn't want to be sat out in the evening sun with a cheeky caña, thinking 'how is this my life?' 'In Spain, there is no binge drinking, and you never see people super drunk or messy. 'They sip their alcohol and pace themselves. 3 Benidorm 'becoming too POSH' as dejected expat complains of empty beaches & buzz-free bars after Brits 'priced out' 'Being Irish, our favourite thing to say is 'shall we get another?' when in fact there is no need for that other drink. 'This is something you would never hear people here say, and it has taken time to shift to this mindset. 'Everything feels so much cheaper as the prices are so different in comparison to Ireland and England. Work and career are a lower priority here - it's all about living and enjoying, rather than chasing work pressures. Tori Clinton 'When I go back there to visit family, it can be quite a shock - even when getting a coffee.' Tori quit her job and travelled to Malaga, a place she often visited as a child with her family, in 2023. After falling in love with her new life, she decided to settle down in the Spanish coastal city. She added: 'Work and career are a lower priority here - it's all about living and enjoying, rather than chasing work pressures. 'There are, however, some cultural aspects that have been hard to grasp and still grind my gears. 'As everything is slower paced here, so too is paperwork and getting things done without over complicating everything, but look - we can't have it all. 'It can also be like being on a rollercoaster with your emotions as you're trying to build a life and a home in a country where you're not fluent in their language.' Moving house hacks 1. Declutter Before You Pack Sort through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. Donate, sell, or recycle items to lighten your load. 2. Create an Inventory Make a list of all your items. This helps keep track of everything and ensures nothing gets lost in the move. 3. Use Quality Packing Materials Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. This will protect your belongings during the move. 4. Label Everything Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This makes unpacking much easier and more organized. 5. Pack a 'First Day' Box Include essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, and important documents. This will keep you from rummaging through boxes on your first day. 6. Take Photos of Electronics Setup Before unplugging your electronics, take photos of the wiring setup. This will make it easier to reconnect everything at your new place. 7. Use Suitcases for Heavy Items Pack books and other heavy items in rolling suitcases. This makes them easier to transport and reduces the risk of injury. 8. Colour-Code Your Boxes Use different coloured stickers or markers for each room. This will help movers quickly identify where each box should go in your new home.
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Travel + Leisure
21-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Gorgeous Island Was Just Named the No. 1 Retirement Spot for Americans in Greece
Greece doesn't even crack the top 20 most popular countries for American expats, according to data from World Population Review. And that feels like a mistake, considering the European nation is filled with stunning mountains, historic cities, and seaside towns. But nothing quite compares to the beauty of the Greek Islands, which make for a picture-perfect retirement destination. While there are around 100 inhabited islands in the archipelago, there's one particular island that International Living says is heads and shoulders above the rest as the ultimate place to spend your golden years. In late June, the website dedicated to helping expats find their perfect home abroad shared its list of the six best Greek islands for retirement. And the list comes from one very knowledgeable source: Lynn Roulo, an American expat now living in Athens, Greece. According to Roulo, her top pick for retirees looking for a top-notch spot to spend their golden years is the largest island in Greece, Crete, as it "combines the best of Greek island living with practical advantages like top-notch healthcare, reliable accessibility, major universities, and solid infrastructure." An older couple walking through an olive grove in island, home to about 600,000 people, is like a mini-country in its own right. As Roulo noted, it stretches on for 3,260 square miles, punctuated by small cities, quaint towns with white-washed buildings and blue roofs, and country farms in its rolling hillsides. "Whether you prefer urban energy, peaceful seaside villages, or quiet mountain retreats, you'll find it here, all within a few hours' drive," Roulo added. As Travel + Leisure previously shared, Crete is an excellent place for those who love history, thanks to sites like the Palace of Knossos, the island's most iconic archaeological site. "Crete's most famous archaeological site is the great Minoan Palace of Knossos, the oldest, largest, and most elaborate of these sites," Peter Sommer of Peter Sommer Travels shared. "In its wide courts, shaded colonnades, and intricate arrangements of room after room, floor after floor, one can really come to grips with a civilization from far back in the Bronze Age, and grapple with questions that are still hotly debated – what did these palaces look like, what were they for, who lived in them, and how did they function?" And it's a fantastic place for those who love the outdoors, with destinations like Samaria Gorge, which will take you on a 10-mile hike through Crete's White Mountains. And naturally, there are plenty of beaches to relax on, including the famed Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand created by millions of crushed seashells. Roulo added that the island is also well-connected to the rest of the world, thanks to its two international airports (Heraklion and Chania) and ferry ports. Healthcare is also relatively accessible thanks to the University General Hospital of Heraklion. Crete also "has large supermarkets and chain stores, including Lidl, and starting in 2025, Heraklion will be home to a newly opened IKEA," Roulo said. Other spots to make Roulo's list include Corfu, Syros, Naxos, Rhodes, and Evia. As for how you can make the leap to the Aegean nation, the best option may be the Greece Retirement Visa, otherwise known as the Greece FIP visa, which offers temporary residency to non-EU citizens that can show passive earnings of at least €3,500 (about $4,100) per month, according to Lincoln Global Partners. See more about the visa process and start your application at
Forbes
19-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Best Places To Retire Abroad In 2025
D uring their 23 years together and 11 years of marriage, Jeff Hammerberg and Merlin Parker have moved from Colorado to California to Texas, working in real estate. Their last stop was in Austin, a liberal Lone Star State enclave that matched their personal politics. But after five years, as they prepared to retire, Hammerberg, 66, and Parker, 59, concluded it had become too expensive. Moreover, they didn't like the political environment in the rest of the state, or even the U.S. 'Being a gay couple, Texas was not very compatible,' Parker says. So in March they moved with Wally, their 12-year-old Corgie mix, to Lisbon, Portugal, on the western edge of Europe. They savor what they find to be a more laid-back and accepting culture in Portugal's capital city. They're paying $3,700 rent for a three-bedroom apartment in a century-old classic mid-rise on a tree-lined street in the bustling, convenient Saldanha neighborhood. But their healthcare costs are considerably lower, they've ditched their car in favor of walking and the subway, and they figure, overall, they're financially ahead. They can easily travel around Europe, and, says Hammerberg, 'It's a quick, seven-hour flight back to the U.S.' Both have family in the Midwest where they grew up. While most Americans remain in the U.S. for their golden years (you can see our new domestic list for Best Places to Retire here), there's growing interest in retiring abroad. A record 712,000 Americans living abroad were receiving Social Security benefits at the end of 2024, up 21% in a dozen years. In many cases the day-to-day living economics are compelling. And that's on top of a growing number of countries, including Greece, Portugal and Costa Rica, that have recently relaxed rules which used to keep retirees from bringing in extra income by working. New 'digital nomad' visas allow American expats to stay for an extended period, while working remotely for employers in other countries. It's a fine way to transition to retirement or try out a country that might become part of your long-term plan. Then there's the current divided U.S. political landscape. Traffic to Forbes ' 2024 foreign retirement list jumped seven-fold within three days of Donald J. Trump's reelection in November 2024. Some polls have suggested nearly a fifth of those at or nearing retirement age would at least consider a foreign move. Actually doing it, however, requires lots of research. To help you get started, Forbes offers its list of The Best Places to Retire Abroad In 2025, highlighting 96 places in 24 different countries in four continents, plus islands. Ten of the 24 are in Europe. In making our picks, we considered relative cost of living; taxes (rarely a bargain); healthcare quality and costs (Medicare can't be used abroad, but medical care and insurance usually are much cheaper outside the U.S.); ease of getting back to see relatives; crime and political instability; and social isolation, especially if English isn't widely spoken and you're not fluent in the dominant language. (Not every foreign country on this list is like Belize, Canada, Ireland or Malta, where English is an official language, or The Netherlands, where an estimated 90% of the population speaks English.) We also weighed the current ease or difficulty of getting permission to stay in a country. One caution: Evolving U.S. policies and practices when it comes to tariffs, undocumented immigrant expulsions, visas and treatment of visitors at the border, could have an impact on how other nations treat Americans. This list also takes into account climate change and natural hazard risk abroad. That's the reason the Philippines isn't on the list; the Pacific Ocean island-nation remains No. 1—meaning the worst—by a wide margin among 193 countries on the latest World Risk Report compiled under the auspices of the United Nations. (The U.S. comes in at No. 20.) If you're considering a foreign move, we offer more pointers, information on our data sources, and another case study on decision-making here. Our country picks are listed alphabetically below. A-E Shkoder, Albania Fani Kurti/iStock/Getty Images Albania Mediterranean-climate country with great beaches and vistas Locations: Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë, Shkoder Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy Long past its isolationist Communist background, Albania is a NATO member sitting east across the Adriatic Sea from the heel of Italy. It offers a Mediterranean climate, scenic beaches and mountains, and a cost of living half the U.S. average. The government is stable, and serious crime is low. Healthcare is merely adequate (but getting better) with some patients still preferring to consult specialists in Italy. Private health insurance is a must. English is spoken, but not everywhere. There is no tax treaty with the U.S. barring double taxation, but Albania doesn't tax pension income of foreigners. A D Long Stay Visa leading to a retirement visa requires a showing of about $17,500 in annual pension income. On the downside, flights to the U.S. require a change somewhere, and storm flooding can be a problem. Popular retirement locations include the capital Tirana, the coastal towns of Durrës and Vlorë, and the mountain town of Shkoder. Buenos Aires, the capital ofArgentina South American country with great scenery and a blend of European and Latino cultures Locations: Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza, Rosario Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy South America's second-largest country offers beautiful scenery and a diverse European-tinged culture with a wide range of reverse-season weather. Cost of living is significantly below the U.S. average, while serious crime is slightly higher. Healthcare is among the best in South America, especially in the larger cities, and far cheaper than in the U.S., but private insurance is a must. Knowledge of Spanish is very helpful. There is no tax treaty with the U.S., but Social Security and foreign pensions generally are not taxed in Argentina. A renewable pensionado, or retirement, visa is available to foreign retirees showing at least $24,000 in annual retirement income. Nonstop flights to the U.S. take about 10 hours. Argentina ranks in the top third of countries with the least natural-hazard risk, although flooding can be a problem. Popular retirement spots include Buenos Aires, the capital; the historic town of Cordoba; the wine capital of Mendoza, and the inland port city of Rosario. Vienna, Austria Guven Ozdemi/Austria A less pricey Switzerland, but knowledge of German is required Locations: Vienna, Innsbruck, Salzburg and Linz Living Costs: About the same as U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent Gaining Right to Stay: Doable but somewhat pricey and must speak German With a rich culture and striking scenery, Austria provides an inviting setting for retirees. Cost of living is about the same as the U.S. average. Serious crime rate is low, and the politics are stable. Health care is excellent, and it's possible to eventually enroll in the national health system. Natural hazard risk is considered low. Plane rides to the U.S. usually require a change. A long-standing tax treaty between Austria and the U.S. prevents double taxation. Retirees can apply for a 'settlement permit except gainful employment' document that requires showing about $50,000 a year in retirement income for a couple as well as German language proficiency. Since there's a quota on these permits, local professional help is advised. Possible retirement spots include the capital Vienna, Innsbruck, Salzburg and Linz. Caye Caulker, an island off Belize Mindaugas Dulinskas/iStock/Getty Images Belize English-speaking Central American country, boasting flora, coral reefs and convenience to the U.S. Locations: Ambergris Caye, Corozal, Caye Caulker, Placencia Living Costs: Considerably less than U.S. average Healthcare: Basic Gaining Right to Stay: Very easy The only Central American country with English as its official language, Belize offers retirees a warm, outdoors-oriented environment, including fishing and barrier reef diving. Cost of living is considerably less than the U.S. average. Crime is not a problem except in Belize City. Finding quality healthcare can be an issue; retirees often return to the U.S.—just a two-hour plane ride to Houston—for major medical needs, or to use Medicare. Hurricanes are another problem. The politically stable country attracts retirees with a Qualified Retirement Program that offers permanent residency upon showing just $24,000 in annual income, along with a tax exemption on income from outside the country. Popular venues for retirees include Ambergris Caye, an island 35 miles northeast of Belize City; Caye Caulker, another island just off the coast; Corozal, a mainland city on the Atlantic Ocean near Mexico; and Placencia, in the south. Niagara-On-The-Lake, CanadaCanada Convenient to the U.S., but difficult for retirees without family ties to gain permission to live there full time Locations: Guelph, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Moncton and Estevan Living Costs: Slightly less than U.S. average Healthcare: Good and affordable, plus Medicare option Gaining Right to Stay: Difficult without family ties, but six-month stays possible Given the now frosty official relations with the U.S., why is Canada even on this list? Well, there are large numbers of Americans with Canadian family ties who might qualify for a retirement residency under existing rules (assuming they don't change). For those without family connections, Canada still lets U.S. citizens stay six months a year, every year, allowing for a part-year retirement option (with no Canadian tax issues). Cost of living is slightly less than the U.S. average, especially outside big cities. English, of course, is an official language. Forest fires can be a problem in the west. Non-residents need private health insurance, but the long common border gives retirees the ability to return to the U.S. and use Medicare. For those able to retire full time up north, Canadian taxes are higher than in the U.S., but a tax treaty prevents double taxation. With most of the population within 90 miles of the U.S. border, return travel is easy. The government is stable, and serious crime rates are low. Popular places include Guelph and Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, Moncton in New Brunswick and Estevan in Saskatchewan. Cartagena,Colombia Vivid South American country with warm climate, quick plane rides to U.S. Locations: Medellín, Pereira, Cali, Cartagena Living Costs: Much less than U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent Gaining Right to Stay: Easy Having mostly shed its drug cartel-dominated image, Columbia, at the top of South America, has become a popular expat retirement destination. The now politically stable country has great weather and scenery, coupled with a low cost of living and affordable quality healthcare. Knowledge of Spanish is very helpful. Crime, though, is still a problem in places. There is no tax treaty against double taxation with the U.S., but the U.S. foreign tax credit affords substantial relief, and a new Colombian law exempts the first $11,500 in foreign pension income. A renewable pensionado (pensioner's) retirement visa for three years is relatively easy to get with a showing of about $12,000 in annual retirement income. Flights back to the U.S. are tolerable in length and often nonstop (three-and-a half hours to Miami). Parts of the country have exposure to flooding. Inviting locations include the mountain valley cities of Medellín, Pereira and Cali, and the coastal city of Cartagena. San José, Costa Rica Arkadij Schell/iStock/Getty Images Costa Rica Central American country with lush tropics and beaches on two oceans Locations: San José, Central Valley, Atenas, Santa Cruz Living Costs: Generally less than U.S. average Healthcare: Good Gaining Right to Stay: Easy With broad beaches on two oceans, lush scenery in between, a tropical climate and a laid-back lifestyle, Costa Rica continues to be very popular with U.S. retirees, particularly those who love the outdoors. Living costs remain generally less than the U.S., crime rate is low, and the politics are stable. Flooding can be a problem. Healthcare in the larger cities is good and cheap, and it's possible to join the public health system. Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not essential. A two-year renewable pensionado retirement visa requires a showing of just $12,000 in yearly income. The U.S. and Costa Rica do not have a tax treaty avoiding double taxation, but Costa Rica doesn't tax the foreign income of retirees. Miami and Houston are three hours away by nonstop plane. Inviting venues include the capital San José, the mountain-flanked Central Valley plateau, including Atenas, with spring-like weather year-round; and the Pacific Ocean city of Santa Cruz. Limassol,Cyprus Sun-drenched Mediterranean island nation where English is widely spoken Locations: Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos Village, Larnaca Living Costs: Much less than U.S. average Healthcare: Good and retirees can qualify for public healthcare system Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy At the eastern end of the Mediterranean, Cyprus (the southern 60% of the 60-mile-wide island not dominated by Turkey) offers a sunny environment with terrific beaches, a Greek culture and a long reputation for expat retirement. There's a low cost of living, plus a low crime rate and stable politics. English is spoken by three-quarters of the population. Healthcare is good, and permanent residents can qualify for the public healthcare system, although private health insurance is available. The country experiences flooding and wildfires. A tax treaty between Cyprus and the U.S. prevents double taxation, and there are other tax breaks for expat retirees. Retirees usually start by applying for a Category F residency permit, which requires a showing of about $15,500 in annual retirement income for two. Buying property costing at least $340,000 offers another route. Flights back to the States require a change. Places to settle include the coastal cities of Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos Village and Larnaca. Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicDominican Republic Caribbean country with stunning beaches and mountains Locations: Santo Domingo, Las Terrenas, Punta Cana, Cabarete Living Costs: Considerably less than U.S. average Healthcare: Good Gaining Right to Stay: Easy Despite sharing the large island of Hispaniola with war-torn Haiti, the Dominican Republic is politically stable and offers retirees stunning beaches and mountain vistas. Living costs are half the U.S. average. Hurricanes and earthquakes are issues, however, as well as serious crime in some spots. Healthcare is rated as good and affordable, although private health insurance is needed. Speaking Spanish is very helpful. The pensionado visa for retirees requires a showing of $18,000 in annual retirement income. The U.S. and the Dominican Republic do not have a tax treaty, but the DR doesn't tax foreign income of expat retirees. Miami is just a two-hour flight away. Retirement venues include the capital of Santa Domingo, and the beach towns of Las Terrenas, Punta Cana and Cabarete. F-L Classic view of Paris, France Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images France The full European experience with great food and wine Locations: Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Carcassonne Living Costs: Outside of Paris, less than in the U.S. Healthcare: Excellent and cheap Gaining Right to Stay: Difficult but doable Beyond the food, France offers retirees high-quality healthcare at low prices, paid through private insurance or out of pocket. Cost of living varies widely but is less than the U.S. average and is lower the farther one gets from Paris. Knowledge of some French is essential. Serious crime rates are generally lower than in the States. Flooding can be a problem. Taxes are high, but there is a tax treaty with the U.S. against double taxation, and France does not tax U.S. pension and Social Security income. Getting a renewable VLS-TS Long-Stay Visitor Visa is difficult—and could get harder depending on the political mood—but still doable. An annual retirement income of at least $19,000 for a couple must be shown. Professional advice is highly recommended. Climate change issues not as pronounced as other places. Many nonstop flights back to the U.S. Besides Paris, popular retirement spots for U.S. expats include Bordeaux, in southwestern France; Lyon, near the Alps; and Carcassonne, an ancient fortress town in southeastern France. Athens,Greece Cultural wonderland in the sunny Mediterranean Locations: Athens, Trikala, Mykonos, Thessaloniki Living Costs: Considerably cheaper than U.S. average Healthcare: Good and affordable Gaining Right to Stay: Reasonably easy Jutting into the Mediterranean on the Balkan Peninsula, sunny Greece with its 6,000 islands presents an appealing environment. Cost of living for most places, especially away from Athens, is considerably below the U.S. average. Health care is considered good and affordable, but private health insurance is required. Knowing some Greek is helpful. Serious crime rate is low. Exposure to climate change and natural hazard risk is significant. A tax treaty with the U.S. blocks double taxation, and under certain circumstances there is a preferential tax rate for foreign retirees. Most expat retirees start by applying for a renewable Financially Independent Person Visa, requiring a minimum annual income for a couple of $26,000. Professional help is advised. Flights to the U.S. are long. Popular venues include the capital Athens, Trikala in the north, the island town of Mykonos, and the Aegean Sea cultural center of Thessaloniki. Bali,Indonesia Warm, exotic Southeast Asia country of 17,000 islands Locations: Bali Island, Jakarta, Lombok, Ubud Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate and cheap Gaining Right to Stay: Fairly straightforward, but local help required A tropical country encompassing 17,000 islands, Indonesia has increased in popularity as a retirement spot for expats. The country has a low cost of living, a low crime rate and distinctive cuisine. Politics are stable, and the serious crime rate is low. English is widely spoken. Healthcare is adequate and affordable, with private health insurance required. There is a natural hazard risk from earthquakes, volcanoes and, increasingly, with climate change, flooding and heat waves. A tax treaty with the U.S. blocks double taxation. A Retirement KITAS visa, which can lead to permanent residence, requires showing annual income of $36,000 for two, plus a commitment to hire a maid or driver, and must be requested through a third-party agent. Journeys back to the U.S. require a change of planes and often take more than 24 hours. Expat retirement centers include cities on the island of Bali, the nearby island of Lombok, the capital of Jakarta and Ubud. Dingle, Ireland Oleksandr Khomenko/iStock/Getty Images Ireland Lush European island with English speakers and convenient flights to U.S. Locations: Dingle, Waterford, Tralee, Bray Living Costs: Roughly equal to U.S. average Healthcare: Good, with private insurance Gaining Right to Stay: Doable, but expensive The scenic Republic of Ireland offers much for U.S. retirees, with English widely spoken, stable politics and low serious crime. There are nonstop flights back to the U.S. from several airports. Cost of living is about that of the U.S., although the countryside is a lot cheaper than Dublin. Flooding can be an issue. Healthcare is good and affordable with private insurance required for expat retirees. Taxes are high, but a tax treaty with the U.S. avoids many double taxation issues, and U.S. Social Security benefits generally aren't taxed by Ireland. Those with an Irish citizen as a parent or grandparent can get citizenship (and thus the right to unrestricted residency) with a lot of paperwork, but otherwise gaining the Long-Stay D or O Visa for retirement generally requires a substantial annual retirement income of $110,000 for a couple. Inviting locations include the coastal villages of Dingle and Tralee in the southwest, the coastal city of Waterford in the southeast, and the Dublin suburb of Bray. La Marche,Italy Enticing culture, climate and food in the Mediterranean Locations: Le Marche, Pescara, Palermo and Puglia Living Costs: Significantly lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent, with access to public system Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy, but expensive Besides appealing culture and food, Italy offers a cost of living much lower than in the U.S., especially outside of big cities. Plus, it's possible to join the state-run healthcare system. Politics are stable, and the serious crime rate is lower than in the States. Natural hazard risks include earthquakes, flooding and volcanoes. Italian government policy still encourages U.S. retirees by issuing an Elective Residency Visa, which requires a couple to show about $41,000 in annual retirement income. Italy doesn't tax foreign pensions of government workers, and a tax treaty between the U.S. and Italy helps avoid double taxation. Speaking Italian is definitely helpful. There are plenty of nonstop flights back to the U.S. Retirement areas include Le Marche and Pescara in the Abruzzo region along the Adriatic Coast; Palermo, in Sicily; and the Puglia Region in the heel. M-O George Town, Malaysia Nalidsa Sukprasert/iStock/Getty Images Malaysia Asian culture at a discount Locations: George Town, Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Melaka Living Costs: Much, much lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Good, with private insurance Gaining Right to Stay: Easy, but more expensive than before Malaysia draws U.S. retirees to its steamy Southeast Asia climate for its low cost of living, outdoor vistas and exotic mix of cultures. English is widely spoken. Crime can be a problem, and flooding is a natural hazard risk. The government makes it easy for U.S. retirees with the Malaysia My Second Home program, a multi-tiered menu—silver, gold and platinum—that includes lengthy visas and varies by region. The program was recently revised to be based on assets and home purchase rather than income. The gold version requires a $500,000 (US) deposit, of which half can be for a residence. There's no tax treaty against double taxation with the U.S., but Malaysia doesn't tax foreign-source income like pensions. With no direct service, plane trips back to the U.S. can take upwards of 19 hours. Healthcare is inexpensive and good, at least in bigger cities, but private health insurance is a must. Expat retirees are found in George Town, on the Strait of Malacca; Kuala Lumpur, the capital; Ipoh, a foodie center, and Melaka, in the south. Valletta, MaltaMalta Mediterranean island nation with grand beaches Locations: Valletta, St. Paul's Bay, Qawra, Gozo Living Costs: Lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent and affordable Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy, but pricey A mere 100 miles off Italy in the Mediterranean, Malta is a five-island nation with terrific beaches, a temperate climate and low crime. English is an official language. Natural hazard risk is considered low. Cost of living is materially less than the U.S. average, and healthcare is excellent and affordable. The government is stable and encourages expat retirees with several visa options, including the Malta Retirement Programme, a renewable visa requiring a minimum annual retirement income of about $27,000 per couple. A tax treaty with the U.S. prevents double taxation, and some retirement income may be taxed by Malta at a low rate. Return air travel to the U.S. requires a change of planes. Retirees are found in the capital, Valletta; and St. Paul's Bay and Qawra on the main island; and the nearby island of Gozo. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Carlos Flores/iStock/Getty Images Mexico Warm climate and proximity to the U.S. Locations: San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, Tlaxcala, Lake Chapala Living Costs: Way lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate and affordable, plus easy access to the U.S. for Medicare Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy Mexico gives gringo retirees the unusual ability to return to the U.S. and use Medicare (although Mexican healthcare is adequate and inexpensive, especially medications). Cost of living is half or less of the U.S. average. Politics are stable. Serious crime rate is higher in Mexico than the U.S., but foreigners rarely are victims. Property theft can be a problem, especially in some of the border towns. The western and southern portions are prone to tropical storms. A tax treaty between the U.S. and Mexico prevents double taxation. English is spoken, but not widely. Most retirees seek a Mexican Permanent Resident Visa and then a Mexican Permanent Resident Card. Return travel to the U.S. is quick. Popular retiree places include San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, Tlaxcala and Lake Chapala. Perast, MontenegroMontenegro Mediterranean-climate country with terrific beaches and varying climates Locations: Podgorica, Perast, Kotor, Budva Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate Gaining Right to Stay: Easiest with purchase of real estate Across the Adriatic Sea from Italy in the Balkens, Montenegro boasts fabulous beaches, scenic mountains and a cost of living considerably less than the U.S. average. The government is stable, and serious crime is low. Healthcare is considered adequate, but private insurance is required. English is spoken by about a third of the population. There is no tax treaty with the U.S. barring double taxation, but the U.S. foreign tax credit affords substantial relief and the Montenegro income tax rate tops out at just 15%. Easiest route to permanent residency is purchase of real estate, which can be relatively inexpensive. Air travel back to the U.S. requires a change somewhere else in Europe. Montenegro ranks in the favorable half of the Global Risk Index for natural hazards but is no stranger to flooding and earthquakes. Expat retirement venues include the capital Podgorica and the waterfront cities of Perast, Kotor and Budva. Amsterdam, The NetherlandsThe Netherlands Cultured European country with high percentage of English speakers Locations: Amsterdam, Leiden, Delft, Tilburg Living Costs: Similar to U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent and affordable Gaining Right to Stay: Doable Nestled along Europe's North Sea coast, The Netherlands offers an incredible geographic location for European travel and a solid Continental sensibility. Cost of living is roughly the same as the U.S. Politics are stable. By some estimates upwards of 90% of the population speaks English. Serious crime rate is very low. Though a quarter of the tiny county is below sea level, the kingdom has dealt aggressively and successfully with climate change issues. A tax treaty between the U.S. and The Netherlands prevents double taxation. Expat retirees can seek an 'Economically Inactive Individual' visa with a showing of about $33,000 in annual retirement income. Air travel back to the U.S. is frequent, with non-stops to more than a dozen cities. Possible retirement spots include the capital pf Amsterdam and the college towns of Leiden, Delft and Tilburg. P-Z Panama City, PanamaPanama Florida on the cheap, with fewer hurricanes Locations: Boquete, Panama City, Coronado, David Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average Healthcare: High quality and affordable Gaining Right to Stay: Very easy With a sunny, warm climate, Panama might seem like an extension of Florida. But the cost of living is barely half that of the U.S., and hurricanes tend to go elsewhere. The healthcare is high-quality and affordable. Crime rates are low and politics are stable. English is somewhat spoken. Flooding is a big natural hazard. The country encourages expat retirees, making a Panama Retirement Visa easy to come by, although it often requires use of a local lawyer. There is no tax treaty with the U.S., but Panama does not tax the foreign source income of retirees. Plane trips back to the U.S. are quick. Popular expat retirement venues include Boquete, a town in the highlands with a somewhat cooler climate; the capital of Panama City; Coronado on the Pacific Coast; and the inland city of David. Lisbon, Portugal Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images Portugal Good climate and European culture with a low cost of living Locations: Algarve region, Lisbon, Cascais, Porto Living Costs: Much lower than the U.S. average Healthcare: Good and affordable Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy Laid-back Portugal, on Europe's Western tip, has a low cost of living for U.S. retirees and good, affordable healthcare. English is spoken widely enough. Crime rate is low, and politics are stable. Flooding can be an issue. The country encourages retirees who can show yearly income of about $17,000 for a couple, or a $550,000 investment, which can be in property. The usual route is by seeking a renewable D7 Residence Visa. A tax treaty between the U.S. and Portugal avoids double taxation. There is some nonstop plane service to the U.S. Retirees are drawn to the Algarve area on the Atlantic near Lisbon, the capital; Lisbon itself; Cascais, a suburb of Lisbon, and Porto, in the north. Piran, Solvenia Lara Uhryn/iStock/Getty Images Slovenia Stunning European scenery and a low cost of living Locations: Ljubljana, Bled, Piran, Celje Living Costs: Far less than the U.S. average Healthcare: Adequate and cheap Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy Part of the former Yugoslavia touching Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary, with a tiny frontage on the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia offers a wide variety of stunning coastal and mountain scenery. Cost of living is less than half that in the U.S. Politics are stable and the crime rate is low. Healthcare with private insurance is adequate and cheap. Flooding is a natural hazard risk. Renewable one-year temporary resident permits leading to permanent residency after five years are available upon showing of retirement income of about $12,000 a year per couple. A tax treaty between the U.S. and Slovenia avoids double taxation. Flights back to the U.S. are long and require a change or stop. Retirement venues include the capital Ljubljana; the lake resort town of Bled; Piran, on an inlet of the Adraitic Sea; and the inland city of Celje. Bilbao, Spain Marco Bottigelli/iStock/Getty Images. Spain Expressive, exciting European culture Locations: Costa del Sol, Bilbao, Orange Blossom Coast, Alicante Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent and cheap Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy Sunny Spain is far cheaper than the U.S., particularly away from the gorgeous coasts and big cities. Healthcare is considered excellent. Crime rate is low, and the politics are stable. Natural hazards include forest fires and flooding. The renewable, oddly named Non- Lucrative Residence Visa is relatively easy for a U.S. retiree to get upon a showing of adequate annual income, roughly $39,000 a year for a couple. However, to deal with housing shortages, the government has proposed a 100% tax on non-European Union residents buying property, making renting a better option. Spain doesn't tax pensions of retired expat government workers, and a tax treaty between the U.S. and Spain eliminates many double taxation issues. Knowledge of some Spanish is a must. There are nonstop flights back to the U.S. Inviting venues include the Costa del Sol along the Mediterranean; Bilbao and the Orange Blossom Coast near Barcelona; and Alicante, also on the Mediterranean. Koh Samui,Thailand Tropical Asian environment with excellent healthcare Locations: Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average Healthcare: Excellent and cheap Gaining Right to Stay: Easy Thailand draws flocks of U.S retirees thanks to an inviting Asian culture, a cost of living less than half that of the U.S. and healthcare so excellent and cheap it draws patients from abroad. English is widely spoken. Crime rate is low. Politics are stable. Natural hazard risk includes tsunamis. The O-X retirement visa is easy to obtain upon a showing of about $24,000 in yearly income per couple and another $25,000 in a Thai bank. A tax treaty between the U.S. and Thailand prevents double taxation and also exempts Social Security and U.S. pensions from Thai taxation. With no non-stop flights currently, plane travel back to the U.S. can take 24 hours or longer. The northern town of Chiang Mai draws retirees, as does the crowded capital of Bangkok, the island of Phuket, and Koh Samui, an island in the Gulf of Thailand. More from Forbes Forbes Best Places To Retire In 2025: Greenville And Other Surprisingly Affordable Gems By William P. Barrett Forbes 25 Best Places To Enjoy Your Retirement In 2024: Eugene And Other Top Spots By William P. Barrett Forbes How To Find Your Ideal Retirement Spot By William P. Barrett Forbes Best Places To Retire In 2024: Las Cruces And Other Unexpected Hot Spots By William P. Barrett
Daily Mail
16-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Australian couple spark uproar after revealing the five reasons they've decided to leave the country for good
An Australian family have decided to leave the country 'forever', saying they can no longer 'stay silent and conform'. Content creators Molly and Brent Orwell, along with their two kids, announced their move from Queensland to a secret overseas location to over 100,000 of their followers on Tuesday. 'We're leaving Australia for good. Not for a holiday. Not for a break. Not for a visa run. We're done,' they wrote. 'We've sat with this decision for years and we finally made the call. 'Australia will always be home but it's no longer where we're meant to grow or raise our kids.' The couple and their two children will pack up in eight weeks and cited five main reasons they no longer want to live Down Under. 'We're done with sky-high taxes, insane cost of living, tall poppy syndrome, a system shaping our kids in ways we didn't choose and shrinking opportunity for entrepreneurs,' they said. 'You realise you can either stay silent and conform… or do what's best and make a move.' The couple don't face the same obstacles many expats do when moving overseas as their business is online-based. The Orwells sell online courses on 'high-ticket affiliate marketing, how to build a personal brand on social media and promote premium digital products'. While they wouldn't share exactly where they were headed, the Queenslanders listed a series of perks they're expecting. 'Beachfront living, 350+ days of sunshine, global education, organic food year-round, more time with our kids, a wellness-based lifestyle and a community that actually gets it,' they said. Many commenters believed the family would be heading to Bali, Thailand or another popular destination in Southeast Asia. However, the couple ruled those areas out. Others suspected the family's recent trip to Mexico and the US could have been a secret house-hunting tour. 'My guess is Cabo,' one wrote. 'I say Mexico or Portugal,' another said. While the couple's videos typically focus on their family life, they shared several posts related to their tour of North America in June. In particular, they highlighted their 'love' for Cabo San Lucas, on Mexico's west coast. The announcement left the couple's large following divided, with many refuting the couple's critiques of Australia while others applauded their decision. Many pointed out Australia's safety, healthcare and education systems were second to none. 'Cost of living is not bad, tax rates are fine if you're smart enough. I have travelled all over and prefer a lot of places compared to Australia but when it comes to our health care, schooling, and overall safety not many compare to us,' one wrote. 'You pretty much just described Australia (in the list of perks of their new location),' another said. 'White privileged family moving to a poor, hence cheaper country… International school, maid, gated communities… what's wrong with their public schools! Do you speak the language or are planning to live with the Australian expat community!!' wrote another. 'Personally I think you'll find out pretty quickly that the issues you highlighted are largely global issues and comparatively we are a very, very lucky country and our citizens are pretty spoiled here. But hey, you don't realise how lucky you are til you don't have it,' one commented. 'They will be back,' said another bluntly. Others commended the move. 'Will be watching to see where you land! My family is living the expat life and never looked back from leaving Australia,' one said. 'Don't blame you. Australia isn't the country I grew up in. The violence and crime in Melbourne is insane,' another chimed in. 'Can you take me with you I hate this place too,' another comment read. The Orwells said their kids had a spot at an international school already, and the family would be selling their house and all their belongings. 'We're not chasing normal,' the couple said.
