Lifestyle - Expat Magazine
There is so much to talk about when living in wartorn countries and those affected by political instability, inflation, job loss, and other crises. At the end of a year that has been particularly marked by such conflicts, members of the Expat.com community share their experiences of living in such countries.
Portugal
Bruno was at the end of his executive career when he decided to leave his province of Padua, in Italy, for Quarteira, located in the Algarve. Although he chose Portugal purely by chance, he says that the country has always been one of his favorite destinations for its climate, tranquility, safety and reasonable cost of living.
Moving overseas is an enriching experience that many Europeans seek every year. While some prefer to stay in Europe, others choose to go on a great adventure on the other side of the world and sometimes even stay there for good. Which are currently the most attractive non-European countries for Europeans?
Until now, Malta has been the only country in the European Union with a total ban on abortion, but that might soon change. Safe and legal abortion is available on request in most EU countries and is often even fully funded by the state. Apart from Malta, only Poland currently has highly restrictive access to abortion. Meanwhile, the rise of the far-right in Italy has awakened the fears of pro-choice citizens and expats there.
One thing is for sure! Everyday life has become very challenging since the Covid pandemic. Furthermore, the energy crisis and inflation have only made things more stressful for international students. Finding a job to meet the increasing expenses has become essential. But how does one deal with the balance between studies and work? How does work fit into the life of an international student?
The whole world has eyes on Qatar for this 22nd edition of the FIFA World Cup, which is taking place from November 20 to December 18h. How do expats in Qatar feel about this major event? How is the stay organized for those who make the trip to be with the soccer world? What is the general feeling among those who are attending the matches? And what about those who are calling for a boycott?
Portugal
Christian moved to Portugal four years ago. He left Sardinia to go to work in sunny Lisbon. He had no difficulties adjusting to his new life. He loves spending his free time playing soccer, surfing, meeting friends and exploring the country, which reminds him so much of home.
The US is witnessing a close battle between Democrats and Republicans. On Tuesday, November 8, American voters were called to the polls for the midterm elections. They had to vote for the renewal of the entire House of Representatives, a third of the Senate, a series of local elected positions; they also had to decide on referendums. The results begin to fall on November 9. There was no red wave but a fierce struggle between the two camps. The proclamation of the final results is likely to take a few more days, but here's what we can already deduce from these elections.
Whether you're seeking a great adventure, new career prospects and a professional challenge or to fulfill a childhood dream, so many reasons can lead one to want to move abroad. But what is it about a culture that attracts individuals to the point of motivating them to move abroad? What are these inspiring cultures?
Canada is set to welcome 450,000 immigrants yearly by 2024. The country is looking to keep attracting international talent and is counting on its excellent track record to stay on top of the list of the most popular expat destinations. Which other countries have the highest immigrant populations and what are their current policies?
With the midterms just a few days away, the Democratic party is holding its breath. Will the Biden administration keep the majority? What is the performance of the Biden administration like when we look back on the infrastructure bill, student debt, inflation, and abortion rights, amongst other issues? How do expatriates in the US feel about the current policies?
While Switzerland's great quality of life keeps attracting new expats, a new study by the Federal Statistical Office reveals that most are likely to leave within a decade. This might partly be explained by how integrating into Swiss culture in the long-term presents many challenges.
Montenegro
In recent years, Montenegro has become one of the most popular destinations for Cubans. Why is this so? What are the procedures for moving and settling there for work? Is it hard to adapt there? Yanexis, who recently moved there, tells us about her experience.
Albania
Two years of pandemic and scarce career opportunities in Italy convinced Anna and her husband to move to Durrës in Albania, where they have been living for a few months already. She believes that if she could have gone back in time, she would have made this choice earlier. Anna talks to Expat.com about everything she loves about this beach town.
When you have been living abroad for years, and you are fully integrated into your new country, it can be difficult to stay in touch with your native culture. As the years go by, you become more and more detached from the current events in your country of origin, you watch fewer and fewer films or series produced there, you see less and less of your compatriots, and sometimes you barely speak your native language. So, what can you do to avoid searching for words in your native language and feeling completely disconnected from your former life?
On November 1, Canada will announce its 2023-2025 Immigration Levels Plan. Each year, this plan resets permanent immigration targets for the next coming years. It gives a breakdown of how many newcomers of each migration class the country wants to welcome. The federal government is also intent on increasing immigration in Quebec despite the Quebecois government's opposition to it.
Martinique
We are in 2018 when Monica and her husband, along with their children, decided to go on a trip. They were both employed in the retail industry in Italy and wanted to take charge of their lives and experience new sensations. So, they moved to Malta, and then to Spain amidst the pandemic. Then, one day, an unexpected opportunity came knocking at their door: a job in Martinique! They didn't waste any time and rushed to this island in the West Indies, a French overseas department.
Portugal
Carla and Walter are an Italian expat couple who now live in Portugal. Retired, they left the gray of Alexandria to settle in Coimbra. They talk to Expat.com about what makes their new home a great place to live in.
Articles to help you in your expat project
Getting married in Qatar
Getting married in Qatar could be a hassle for newbies. However, knowing the right procedure and information can ...
Marriage in Brazil
Brazil can be a romantic country, and you may want to marry here. Perhaps you even want to remain in Brazil ...
Getting married in Greece
Dreaming of getting married in Greece? Whether you're a foreigner or a Greek citizen, tying the knot in this ...
Getting married in Vietnam
Have you met that perfect someone who you want to spend the rest of your life with? Luckily, getting married in ...
Marriage in Hong Kong
There are many reasons why you may want to get married in Hong Kong. You could be a long-term expat and have ...
Getting married in the Philippines
Getting married in the Philippines provides a backdrop of immense beauty through stunning beaches, tropical ...
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
"