All articles tagged with #moving abroad
A Kentucky native moves to Cork to marry an Irish man, and discovers that life in Ireland is not the fairy-tale dream she imagined—facing damp, limited rental options, and deep homesickness (exacerbated by COVID)—yet she remains grateful for their life together, running a home-based business and enjoying meaningful experiences across Europe as she navigates two countries and two homes.
Denae McGaha shares her reflections on returning to the US after seven years in Budapest, highlighting the importance of early packing, keeping documentation, allowing time to grieve, and the challenges of rebuilding a career and health care system, while emphasizing steady progress and personal growth.
Following Donald Trump's election win, there was a significant increase in online searches by Americans considering moving abroad, particularly to Canada. A survey revealed that while 21% of Americans expressed interest in relocating if their preferred candidate lost, only a small fraction were likely to follow through. The primary motivations for considering a move included cultural differences, job opportunities, and healthcare. Despite the initial surge in interest, the sentiment was largely driven by frustration rather than genuine intent to emigrate.
A South Carolina woman in her 20s expressed her economic despair in a viral TikTok video, questioning the high costs and lack of job opportunities in the US. Many young Americans are considering moving abroad for better job prospects and a higher quality of life, with some already making the leap. Factors contributing to this sentiment include student loans, stagnant wages, and high living expenses. However, while leaving the US may seem like a solution, a Pew Research Center study suggests that young adults may not fare better elsewhere, as many countries also believe that future generations will be financially worse off.
A couple from Kansas, tired of the repetitive American dream, decided to move to Spain, only to find out they were pregnant just months before the big move. Despite the challenges of giving birth and raising a child in a foreign country, they have found fulfillment and personal growth. They appreciate the safety, active social life, and affordable childcare in Spain, and feel more connected to their community than ever before.
An American couple, Ellen and Joseph, purchased a rundown house in the historic village of Lonlay l'Abbaye in Normandy, France, for around $20,000 without seeing it in person. They oversaw the renovation work remotely from their home in California, with local builders sending them progress updates. After completing the structural work and painting, they moved to France in 2017 and continued to renovate the house. They have embraced the French lifestyle, learned the language, and formed strong friendships in their new community. The couple finds life in France more affordable and less stressful than in the US, and they have no plans to return, envisioning themselves living in France for the rest of their lives.
After living and working in Dublin, Ireland for four years, Kayleigh Donahue realized the damaging effects of American hustle culture. She found the laid-back work culture in Ireland to be more productive and fulfilling, with a focus on taking time off and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Inspired by her experience, she started sharing her journey on TikTok to encourage others to step out of their comfort zones and consider moving abroad. However, upon returning to the US, she struggled to adjust to the intense work culture and limited vacation days. Donahue plans to eventually move back to Europe with her boyfriend, as she believes it offers a better quality of life.
An American family, the Dawkins, has decided to move to Italy and start a new life in the town of Latronico. Inspired by an initiative to sell cheap houses in the town, the family felt a connection to their Italian ancestry and wanted to leave the US due to issues such as racism and divisiveness. They purchased a home in Latronico sight unseen and have found a supportive community. The family plans to split their time between Italy and Panama, with the goal of eventually acquiring Italian citizenship. They also hope to learn more about their Italian ancestor and reconnect with their roots.