Leisure - Expat Magazine

Get festive at Europe's best Christmas markets
Get festive at Europe's best Christmas ...
You have so many options for your Christmas shopping — from bursting department stores and cosmopolitan shopping streets with spectacular festive window displays, to local boutiques and the internet, of course. However, for fairy-tale-like Christmas shopping experiences, we encourage you to head to the closest Christmas market, where you will find anything from handcrafted toys and ornaments, to fashion items and food (so much food!). Let the sounds of Christmas carols and the aromas of warm mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts guide you to one of our favourite European Christmas markets, and indulge into the holiday spirit!
Where you should move if you're a digital nomad
Where you should move if you're a digital ...
Digital nomadism isn't just about flexible working and travelling around the world. Some factors like the cost of living, access to coworking spaces, internet speed, as well as integration have to be considered. Have a look at some of the best destinations for digital nomads according to a recent study by Spotahome.
Finding happiness in the bustling Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Finding happiness in the bustling Kuala ...
What led Philippine to Malaysia is a job opportunity she could say no to. Coming from the Vosges region in France, she flew to Kuala Lumpur with her family. Both Philippine and her partner work for the same company under a local work contract. Happy about her new life in the heart of the bustling and multicultural metropolis, she talks to Expat.com about her everyday life as a mum and part-time employee far from where her home is.
The pursuit of happiness as an expat in China
China
The pursuit of happiness as an expat in China
After graduating in Northern Ontario, Carmelo wasn't very happy about career prospects in Canada. His quest for a better job led him to China where he works as a teacher. He talks to Expat.com about his new adventures and everyday life as the father of a newborn son in what he calls the "Millenials' paradise", and his passion for his work.
Our expat blog of the month: Wandy McNoble Down Under
Australia
Our expat blog of the month: Wandy McNoble ...
Wendy comes from Mississauga, Canada. After travelling around Europe, including France, the UK and Sweden, she finally moved to Australia where she is a teacher, with her husband. Today, Wendy is a happy mom of two children: Ella who is three and Oliver who is six months old. Wandy McNoble Down Under is her blog where she talks about her day to day life and travels around the land down under.
Six reasons why you should move to Japan
Japan
Six reasons why you should move to Japan
Nicknamed the “Land of the Rising Sun”, Japan is without a doubt one of the world's top expat destinations. By 2020, the country is planning to introduce a new electronic system for tourist visa applications but aiming to extend it to other types of visas. With tourism as an economic pillar, Japan's goal is to achieve 60 million international arrivals every year by 2030. If you're still wondering what is so unique about Japan, here are six good reasons why you should move there.
How the world celebrates the Day of the Dead
How the world celebrates the Day of the Dead
Contrary to popular belief, the Day of the Dead is not a sad day. Nations around the world celebrate the Day of the Dead in a unique way. All Saints' Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a public holiday in many countries. So if you happen to be in one of these countries or you're planning to move there, here's what you can expect on All Saints' Day and the Day of the Dead.
Six reasons why you should move to Vietnam
Vietnam
Six reasons why you should move to Vietnam
Stretching over 330,967 km² east of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam is one of the world's most attractive expat destinations, as much for retirees as for foreign professionals and students. A land of contrasts, what Vietnam has to offer goes beyond its natural landscapes interspersed with mountains, valleys, rice fields, its beautiful beaches, and peaceful sanctuaries. If you're looking for a change and for new opportunities, here are the reasons why you should move to Vietnam.
The world's most expensive cities in 2018
The world's most expensive cities in 2018
Analysing the cost of living is an excellent way of assessing the pros and cons of moving to your chosen destination. It's important to ensure that your salary will allow you to enjoy better living standards including shopping, getting around, and eating out after paying your rent. Expat.com gives you an insight into eight of the world's most expensive cities according to a survey by EuroCost International.
Six cities to consider if you're moving to India
India
Six cities to consider if you're moving to ...
India is one of a kind with its great heritage, blending history, culture, and traditions along with an exceptional cuisine. Over the years, it has become an attractive destination for expats for various reasons including its prosperous economy, opportunities available, quality education, a booming technology sector, and vibrant social life. The Indian government established the Ease of Living Index 2018 to rank cities according to their performance in these fields. If you're planning your next move to India, here are six cities to consider for quality of life.
The best wildlife destinations around the world
The best wildlife destinations around the ...
If you're passionate about adventure travel, staying in your host country can be a unique opportunity to explore its land and marine biodiversity as well as that of neighbouring countries. During your free time or in the weekend, why not take a few days to hike in the forests or mountains, take a stroll in a national park, or plan a safari? For wildlife lovers, Expat.com has compiled a short list of best destinations around the world to observe fauna.
Six reasons why you should move to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
Six reasons why you should move to Saudi ...
Over the years, Saudi Arabia has become an attractive destination for expatriates and visitors. The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia recently announced the introduction of tourist visas in line with the "Vision 2030" program for greater openness. Soon, more short-term visas will be issued for those looking to take part in cultural or sports events in the country. If you're tempted to explore the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, here are six good reasons why you should take the leap.
The most visited cities around the world
The most visited cities around the world
Today, travel and tourism play a significant role in the global economy. Some cities, however, are more attractive than others for various reasons including their historical and cultural heritage, availability of opportunities, as well as leisure activities for each and everyone. Mastercard's Global Destinations Index 2018 gives you an insight into the most visited cities around the world according to the number of international arrivals, the duration of stay and the amount spent by visitors. Discover the six most popular cities with Expat.com.
Five excellent reasons to move to Toronto
Five excellent reasons to move to Toronto
Toronto, the capital city of Canada's province of Ontario and the fifth largest city in North America (after Mexico City, NYC, Los Angeles, and Chicago), is one of Canada's greatest places to live, if you have an active and outgoing personality. The city's landscape and lifestyle are the results of the fascinating mixture of cultures and subcultures. From the hospitality of the people and the vibrancy of city life to the job opportunities and the work-life balance, here are five reasons you will enjoy expat life in the metropolis of Toronto.
Top countries for adventurous expats
Top countries for adventurous expats
Moving abroad usually means going on an adventure to discover new places, cultures, and lifestyles. Often, expats are tempted to go and explore beyond their host country, especially when travelling is easily accessible. If you're the adventurous type, Expat.com gives you an insight into five of the world's most historically, naturally, and culturally rich countries according to the Intrepid Adventure Index 2018.
Please, don't ask me these expat-related questions again
Please, don't ask me these expat-related ...
Expatriation started as a necessity when I was looking to progress with my academic studies of a Master's degree in England. However, it was earlier in my life, when I began travelling for leisure, that I figured out moving countries is a lifestyle I would like to revel in. Since 2007, I have lived and worked in five countries in Europe, Africa, and East Asia, and I am currently preparing for my next expatriation project. I may find it easier to board a plane and start all over again than deciding what to have for dinner, but the journey is not anxiety and sorrow-free. So, if you are interested in how a life away from everything you take for granted is, please don't ask me (or any other like-minded expat for that matter) any of the following questions — here's why.
Top-notch expat destinations for every type of expat
Top-notch expat destinations for every type ...
To become successful in your expatriation project and to make the most of your host country, you should be ready to accept changes in your lifestyle and everyday routine. However, we all have a few habits, favourite activities, or personality traits that we are not willing to compromise regardless of our location or circumstances. Expat.com has selected a few countries depending on your priorities in life to help you choose the most suitable expat destination for you, or to get a better understanding of your new country of residence.
Planning your wedding away from home
Planning your wedding away from home
Did you move abroad and happened to find your soulmate in your host country? We are so happy for you! Now you deserve to have your dream wedding ceremony. So, whether you are planning your wedding in the place you are currently residing in or your partner's home country, look no further. Expat.com has composed a handy guide with everything you may have to consider before your big day.