Moving, living, working, retiring abroad
France is one of the most popular places in the world with Americans to live either for a short time or permanently. The American Embassy in Paris estimates that there are about 150,000 Americans currently living in France. Given that the exchange rate for US dollar to Euro is the highest it has been for … Read more
The retirement age in France has recently undergone significant changes, being raised from 62 to 64 years of age, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s social and economic policy landscape. This adjustment has not only sparked considerable debate within France but also drawn attention to how retirement ages are set and adjusted in other … Read more
Finding employment in Portugal as an expat is a common aspiration for many seeking a change of scenery and lifestyle. Whether motivated by career opportunities, retirement plans, or simply a desire for a new adventure, working in Portugal can offer both professional growth and cultural enrichment. With the rise of remote work opportunities, the prospect … Read more
In the heart of Northern Italy lies the picturesque region of Piedmont, renowned for its stunning and diverse nature, profound historical roots, and unbelievable cuisine. For English-speaking expatriates seeking a slice of Italian life, Piedmont offers a myriad of elegant towns and cities to call home. From vibrant urban centers for job seekers to tranquil … Read more
In 2024, Southern Europe showcases a fantastic list of best cities to live, where life is more than a picturesque postcard; it’s about community, innovation, and tradition. Every year, My Dolce Casa looks at the latest quality of life index from Numbeo, which includes costs, safety, environment, property prices and climate ratings, to see what … Read more
Picking the best country in Europe to live in 2024 in isn’t always easy because you have to weigh up a lot of things, from how strong the economy is to what the weather’s like, and many other factors that can impact your quality of life. But let’s keep it real, for most people thinking … Read more
Calabria, known to many foreigners as “Italy’s toe,” is nestled in the southernmost region of mainland Italy. This affordable region is perfect for anyone looking for the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, beautiful seascapes and landscapes, and a rich historical and culinary heritage. If you’re looking to make Calabria your home, you may not know … Read more
Getting a good job in France as an English-speaker from a non-EU country can be quite a challenge, because French and European citizens typically have priority in employment. The good news is that the French job market is very strong. There are hundreds of thousands of job vacancies in France and the average annual salary … Read more
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Umbria is one of the best regions to live in Italy and it has become especially popular with English-speaking expats. It often flies under the radar, overshadowed by its famous neighbors to the north and south. But, for anyone looking for an authentic Italian life experience, this region has … Read more
Imola, an EU citizen from Budapest, Hungary recently bought an apartment in the beautiful region of Liguria, Italy. She agreed to share with My Dolce Casa the details of her experience and her advice for other expats aspiring to purchase property in Italy. How did you decide to purchase a home in Italy? I have … Read more
The average monthly rent in France, in US dollars, for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,200 in 2024, while a three-bedroom house for rent costs on average $2,200 per month, nationally. In Euros, the monthly rent of an average apartment in France is €1,100, while a house for rent costs around €2,200 per month. Long-term rents … Read more
As the smallest of all Italian provinces, Liguria is perhaps not as well-known to expats as many of the more popular regions of Tuscany, Puglia, or Sicily. Known as the Italian Riviera, the region stretching over 180 miles along the coast of the Ligurian Sea is one of the most picturesque places to live in … Read more
In the eastern part of central Italy, Abruzzo sits sheltered by the Apennine Mountains, separating it from much of Italian society. The region is truly unique, with untouched landscape of nature, beautiful, spontaneous cities built on hillsides. For anyone looking for a taste of one of the greenest landscapes in Europe, Abruzzo is perfect for … Read more
How you view Paris as a tourist and living in Paris a resident are two very different things. Paris is the most visited city in the world, welcoming more than 40 million tourists every year. During the summer months there are lines for all the popular sights. Without pre-paid tickets for the iconic Eiffel Tower, … Read more
In 2024, France will be implementing significant changes in its immigration laws and border rules, affecting individuals traveling from the UK, whether for short visits or long-term stays, reports The Connexion. These modifications come as France aligns itself with the broader regulatory framework of the European Union. We explore the nuances of these new regulations, … Read more
“To be a Parisian is not about being born in Paris, it is about being reborn there.” (Sacha Guitry) Paris is a vibrant and much-loved capital city, a popular place to live in for many expats planning a new life in France. While buying an apartment in Paris is something well out of reach for … Read more
Whenever planning a vacation or a move abroad, safety is usually the top concern for both travelers and expats. When you venture into a foreign country there is a lot of unknown that raises legitimate safety and wellbeing concerns. To ease these fears, it’s best to know what are the safest places to go to. … Read more
If you’ve ever dreamt of immersing yourself in the beauty of life in Italy, Tuscany is probably what you are picturing and you’re not alone. Many people fantasize of moving to Tuscany, lured by the image of an idyllic Italy often represented in Instagram stories and cute movies. But where in Tuscany should you choose … Read more
So, you’re dreaming of a life where the Atlantic breeze mingles with the scent of fresh pastéis de nata. Portugal is calling you, and you have big expectations and so so many questions. Before you pack your bags, let’s sift through your FAQ list with a blend of humor and stark reality. Because, if we … Read more
The “Schengen Shuffle” refers to a practice used by some travelers to navigate the visa restrictions in the Schengen Area of Europe. The Schengen Area is a zone comprising several European countries that have abolished passport and all other types of border control at their mutual borders. For many non-European Union (EU) nationals, this means … Read more