Cost of living - Expat Magazine
Besides career prospects, quality of life, environment, and safety and security, the cost of living is another significant issue to consider when planning your move abroad, whether alone or with your family. Which are the cities where you're likely to spend more regarding rent, food, transportation, and leisure? To help you choose the best destination according to your budget, Expat.com gives you an insight into the world's most expensive cities in 2018 according to the latest Mercer Cost of Living report.
Living in a shared house can be the best solution for solo expats who are keen on socialising, saving money, or both. Sharing accommodation can be as exciting and open-minding as expatriation itself — each of your housemates will probably teach you something about yourself that you didn't know and will introduce you to new experiences and habits (from making pizza dough and separating laundry by their type and colour, to recycling and watching international cinema). Thus, even if you don't live with like-minded people, you can establish harmony with your housemates, as long as there's willingness for respect, tolerance, good communication, and a good sense of humour.
In spite of the fact that families around the world have unique structures and are affected by different socio-economic environments, they are the basic unit of every society. On the United Nations' International Day of Families, Expat.com presents the best countries to raise a family, as revealed by the latest HSBC Expat Explorer survey. Find out where you get high-quality childcare, education, and healthcare to secure a glowing future for your family.
USA
Céline, a French expat in New Orleans, Louisiana, has a rewarding job and leads a full life in this historic city of jazz music and swing. She loves cycling to work, seafood gumbo, and the friendliness of the people. Follow her unique expat story in New Orleans as we unfold it, and learn more about this expat destination from someone who found home away from home in it.
In the past five years, the global cost of living has dropped from 85.5% to 74% — great news expats and expats-to-be, isn't it? How ever, before we cause a stir, we would like to point out that even though during 2017 the world witnessed the fastest economic growth since 2011, the cost of living is fluctuating depending on various indicators; and it's often quite unpredictable. This article looks into the ten most expensive cities for 2018, stemming from the Worldwide Cost of Living report, which has studied 133 cities and the prices of 160 products and services. Money, they say, don't bring happiness. What if, in some cities, they do?
European countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Malta are popular among pensioners, though many are unable to afford to retire there. Greece, however, offers a similar quality of life at a lower cost.
Career prospects, costs of living, quality of life, and leisure are only some of the various factors taken into account by those planning to move abroad. To help you choose the best destination, Expat.com gives you an insight into the world's best cities for expat careers and in terms of affordability, education, culture, and leisure, according to the latest HSBC Expat Explorer Survey report.
Island life is what probably many of us have been dreaming of. So you've finally given the good news to your friends and family and some perhaps even envy you for having that relaxed lifestyle they have been craving for : beautiful beaches with the sun all year long. Usually people, especially those who have spent their whole lives in a big city, have a lot of misconceptions about living on an island. Expat.com breaks the most common myths about island life.
The cost of living, access to coworking spaces and leisure, as well as hospitality and diversity, are only some of the key criteria to consider if you're considering remote working. Expat.com gives you an insight into the topmost destinations for digital nomads according to a survey carried out by Hometogo.
The dream of leaving our country behind in search of exciting adventures abroad can seem unachievable, especially among the younger crowds who are finding themselves with a newly acquired degree, little to no work experience, and a limited budget. Expat.com is here to tell you that it is still possible to move to another country no matter what your circumstances are.
Portugal
Kev is an English teacher hailing from England, but has lived in many countries prior to moving to Portugal in 2014. He is thoroughly enjoying his life in Lisbon, given the quality of life, sunny days year-round, excellent food, and low cost of living. Aside from spending time with his wife and cat, he enjoys writing and traveling.
At some point in our lives, many of us seek some adventure and cultural enlightenment. Maybe you have always dreamed of living in another country and having new experiences. Assuming that you aren't a day trader nor bought bit coins back in 2007, you are going to need to support yourself while living abroad. One of the most popular options is to teach English.
You wish to make a home away from home, but what you should consider when choosing your house abroad? Many criteria such as the city's or town's cost of living, quality of housing, rent prices, neighbourhoods, etc. have to be taken into account – whether you're moving alone or with your family. Here are some useful tips to help you make the right housing choice.
Italy
Alexandra from Russia, first moved to Italy to study the language and to join her many Italian friends. Ever since she has been living in Verona with her Italian husband, and has been enjoying a balanced life that allows space for big gatherings, good food, yoga, and cycling.
Norway
Anne-Sophie comes from Ardennes, but she spent a few years in Paris before moving to Norway. Three years went by since she's living the dream with her companion in the beautiful town of Tønsberg. Looking back at her journey with mixed feelings – with sheer enthusiasm and nostalgia – here is what she has to say about Norway.
Only a few people can just pack up and set up shop wherever they choose, without much consideration. Should you choose the country or the city? Are you looking to live luxuriously or on a budget? We look at some of the most important things to consider before you choose your next destination.
Russia
Diane's never-ending passion for new cultures brought her abroad years ago. Originally from Paris, Diane spent a few years in England before moving to Russia in 2013. For her, Russia is a land of opportunities – both at personal and professional levels. She shares her loving feelings for Russia with Expat.com.
The latest edition of the HSBC Expat Explorer survey has arrived, and with it comes some insight into expats and their finances. We have a look at the results to find out some of the places to move to if you want to boost your finances, or where the most expats are property owners.
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