Moving, living, working, retiring abroad
Chrissie Stephen 
Moving to a new country is a major challenge and it can take time to adapt to a different culture, to master a new language and to comfortably feel that you belong in your new home. Many people question how long does this transition from expat to local take and whether a person can ever … Read more
It can come as a surprise to learn that returning home after a stint of living abroad, might not be as easy as you think. ‘Reverse culture shock’ is the term given to the challenging period experienced by people returning home after living overseas when they find that they have to readjust to their home … Read more
Springtime is the perfect time to enjoy France. The days are longer and colorful blossoms transform cities as well as the countryside. There are plenty of bright sunny days to enjoy, although the warmest temperatures are usually found in the south. France in Spring is delightful, as all the streets and popular tourist places are … Read more
With its long warm summers and mild winters, and a relaxed and affordable lifestyle, Spain has long been a popular place to buy property. Originally it was a popular retirement destination for expats from the UK, Germany and Scandinavia, but more recently it has proved increasingly appealing to investors from all over the world buying … Read more
Living abroad can be a dream come true with many amazing life opportunities and experiences. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to have financial stress when living in a foreign country. Managing financial stress and mental well-being are closely entwined. Any money problems can quickly and negatively impact your health. Expats are susceptible to money worries … Read more
You have made the move abroad and are living your dream. Yet you find yourself regularly missing home. Dealing with homesickness is a common experience for expats that creates feelings of nostalgia and longing for their home, their home town, their country or all of the above. Feeling homesick is a natural part of the … Read more
The Mediterranean Island of Malta enjoys about 300 days of sunshine each year, so those planning a trip to the island in February are guaranteed to enjoy plenty of sunny days. The average temperatures in February in Malta are around 50°F, creating a wonderful spring-like weather. Although it may not be a good time to … Read more
With St. Valentine’s Day in the middle of February, what better idea than to spend it in the most romantic city in the world with your loved one? Having visited many many times, this is one of my favorite times of the year to be in Paris. My husband and I enjoy the amazing view … Read more
January and February are the two coldest months in Athens Greece, but it is still warmer than in most of Europe, making Athens a great winter destination. It is true that if you enjoy holidays with sandy beaches to relax on and swimming in the sea when it is pleasantly warm, the idea of a … Read more
Do you have moments when you feel that you are a different person now that you live in a different country? You will not be alone if you answered yes! Many people describe moving to another country and living in a different culture as a transforming experience. There is the opportunity for self-discovery and many … Read more
Cyprus in February is a refreshing contrast to the dreary, overcast days often found in much of Northern Europe. The island of Cyprus offers a delightful experience with its mild climate and consistently blue, sunny skies. It’s the perfect time for those who enjoy basking on the beach under the sun, though swimming might be … Read more
With the holiday season behind, the city of Paris regains its quiet romantic allure in January. The crisp winter air and occasional snowfall add a magical touch to the already picturesque streets. It’s a time to enjoy the city’s cozy cafes and winter markets at a leisurely pace, immersing in local life. But there are … Read more
Have you ever felt nervous trying to order a coffee in a foreign language? Have you been anxious about visiting a doctor who doesn’t speak your language? Unfortunately, although living in a foreign country can be great fun for so many reasons, a major drawback you could face is language anxiety. Struggling to make others … Read more
After all the initial excitement of living abroad fades, many find themselves feeling lonely and isolated. These are common challenges when moving to a new and very different country. The key to successfully dispelling these feelings is building a support network abroad. Easier said than done, you cry! Here we bring you actionable tips on … Read more
Some people find the experience of living abroad difficult and at times overwhelming – especially if they have never travelled abroad before. Instead of feeling positive, enthusiastic and adapting to their new life, they begin to miss home and its familiarity. They are suffering from culture shock. This is a common and natural part of … Read more
Moving to a new country is an exhilarating experience. Most newcomers view their new surroundings through “rose-colored glasses,” feeling like they are “falling in love” with the place and that they are “living the dream.” Exploring local monuments, enjoying freshly baked pastries and savoring locally grown fruits all make the initial days incredibly exciting. This … Read more
France has long been a popular destination for British couples and families. In 2023, Ibanista reported that 200,000 Americans chose to enjoy the French way of life. The appealing countryside, excellent public transport, rich cultural heritage and outstanding healthcare system all play a role in the decision to move to France from an English-speaking country. For … Read more
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is one of the few warm winter destinations in Europe. Add to that beautiful beaches and charming villages, and you can easily see how Cyprus is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. Thanks to the country’s Digital Nomad Visa Scheme, remote workers from both … Read more
France is world-renowned for its rich culture and arts scene, shaped by centuries of history, social influence and its regional diversity. Choosing an affordable place to live with direct access to world-class museums, art galleries and colorful local traditions is top of the list for many, especially retirees. French cities are among Europe’s best cultural … Read more
France is world-famous for its exquisite wines, which are deeply intertwined with the country’s culture. With 17 wine regions, the French landscape is characterized by endless vineyards and a countryside dotted with small wineries. Local life revolves around the winegrower’s calendar, from tending the vines to celebrating the new wine. Choosing a place to live … Read more