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The new year is nearly upon us, 2017 is slowly coming to a close (how did that happen so fast?!) and our diaries will soon turn to 2018. What better time to finally get around to making some of those changes you’ve been planning on? Have you been considering moving somewhere? Somewhere which is further beyond just the other side of town? Somewhere warm, exotic and FULL of beautiful people? Well I’m here to inspire you in your location choice. Let’s look at some more unusual potential places where you could disrupt your routine and settle into a new pace. I know when it comes to Ireland the majority of Irish people tend to spend a few years in Australia, Canada or the UK. BUT, let’s try thinking of somewhere a little different.
Great Places to Move to in 2018
New Zealand
Ok, so it’s right next door to Australia, but it’s a VERY different country. For the adventurous individuals full of wanderlust (like moi) New Zealand might just be the perfect place to settle. Plus, I was born there, so you know it’s a magical place 😉 The rolling hills, picturesque landscapes and incredibly friendly locals make New Zealand a dream location. Also, orcs aside, why would you not want to live in Middle Earth? Not to mention, English is spoken alongside Māori, so no need to worry about a language barrier. The cost of living in New Zealand can be high, but the wages are decent and the relaxed way of life is worth it. The food is great, there’s plenty of vineyards to visit and they’ve FINALLY gotten Zara and H&M so those are all positives. On the negative side, the internet/phone data is still years behind what we’re used to over here in the UK/Ireland. BUT if the internet isn’t a big thing for you (I don’t understand) then you’ll be grand.
Spain
Considering Spain is usually seen as a holiday destination, many don’t think of it as somewhere to live full-time. However, there are large communities of expats all over Spain, proving that it makes an excellent country to move to. Spain is known for its cheap living costs, great food, sunny climate and relaxed way of life. Most people speak some English, so basic communications should not be much of an issue. Not to mention, Spanish as a language is known to be one of the easier ones to learn, so if you’re in it for the long haul, learning the local language shouldn’t be too much of an issue. And it sounds great! With regards to job prospects there are plenty of opportunities in the bigger cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Valencia. Think of your Vitamin D levels too! No need for supplements even during the winter.
Monaco
Monaco is often known for its reputation as a tax haven, and while that is a huge boon that is not to be overlooked, it is nowhere near everything that the country has to offer. Monaco is located on the Mediterranean coast, between the Italian and French Riviera, making it quite the good-looking location. Riddled with stylish resorts and beaches, over the years it has attracted a huge amount of millionaires and billionaires of which the large majority now have summer houses there. Monaco’s climate is yet another excellent plus which might entice you. Despite the summers being dominated by sweltering heat, everything is so close to either a pool or the sea that hopping in for a quick cool down is never an issue. Similarly, the winters remain sunny and mild, so if you do not deal with the cold very well, you are sorted. Of course, relocating to monaco does not have to be exclusive to those who sleep on money, BUT I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a decent job lined up or a fair amount of savings.
Costa Rica
In order to understand why people often say Costa Rica is a dream living destination, one would have to live there themselves for a while. Obviously, that is rarely possible for the average person, so you will just have to take Happy Planet’s word on it, as Costa Rica has topped their charts more than once. With this many people singing its praises, you just have to assume that Costa Rica is doing something right. With tonnes of micro-climates scattered around the country, you can find the perfect weather for you. The local language is Spanish but like Spain a lot of people also speak English. I always recommend trying to learn enough of the local language to get by, but in the beginning you should be OK. Plus, SLOTHS. Costa Rica is famous for sloths, surfing, diving, coffee, volcanoes and whole host of other amazing things. So if you decide to move to Costa Rica, let me know! I’ll definitely come visit.
Let’s Wrap it Up
There are so many places that I could have included on this list. Places like Hong Kong, Thailand, Mexico, South Korea are all stunning places with great expat communities and standards of living. So while you’re researching your next living location for 2018 make sure to take all of the above into consideration.
Have you ever lived abroad?
Let me know in the comments!
Recommended Reading
– A Kiwi Guide to Wellington, New Zealand
– What Does Home Mean Anyway?