A Dutch Expat’s Bumpy Move From the Netherlands to Lake Como Italy

Lake Como Lombardy Italy

Hello! My name is Arlette Deutekom, and I’m originally from the Netherlands. I recently fulfilled a lifelong dream by buying a house in Italy. My Italian journey began when I became the proud owner of a property in Castiglione d’Intelvi, a charming village near Lake Como. But this has not come without some real challenges … Read more

How Much Is a House in Spain in US Dollars? Here Are the Cheapest and Most Expensive Places

Barcelona Spain

The average price of a home in Spain is $424,000, according to the latest data from My Dolce Casa’s real estate report. Property prices in Spain have increased by about 7% in the past year, as the country is one of the top homebuying destinations for Americans. In comparison, the U.S. median home price is … Read more

How Portugal’s New Migration Plan May Affect Your Own Moving Plans

Portugal Flag

If you’re considering a move abroad to Portugal, there’s some fresh news you need to be aware of. On June 3, 2024, the Portuguese government unveiled a comprehensive Action Plan for Migration, introducing 41 new measures aimed at tightening migration controls, addressing backlog issues, and updating border systems, according to Portugal.com. Here’s a rundown of … Read more

Eight Popular Towns in France for Americans (That Aren’t Paris)

Eymet-Brittany-France A picturesque European village square with historic stone buildings, colorful shutters, and a small fountain to the left. Yellow streamers are strung across the square, adding a festive touch. Cafés and shops with outdoor seating line the charming streets.

Every year more than 12,000 Americans make the move to live in France. For many, the attraction lies in the unparalleled charm of French cities and towns, the slower pace of life, the excellent food and wine, and the friendship shown by the French towards Americans. Certainly, of all the cities in France, Paris stands … Read more

Don’t Get Lost in Translation: French Real Estate Terms Explained

Living in Paris France

Understanding all the real estate terms in France is almost like learning a new language. Whether you’re picturing yourself sipping wine in a chic Parisian apartment, relaxing in a rustic countryside cottage, or basking in the sun at a villa in the South of France, the first real challenge is understanding the terminology. Because, surprise, … Read more

The Truth About Living in Europe vs the United States: Advantages and Disadvantages

Life in Europe vs USA

As Americans, we often experience a certain allure about living in Europe, imagining a life where the days are filled with cappuccinos at the corner cafe, leisurely strolls by the Seine or meeting friends for tapas and sangria. But is this justified by the reality of living in Europe or is it just a dream … Read more

How Much is a House in Portugal in US Dollars? Here Are the Most and Least Expensive Cities to Buy a Home

Algarve Portugal

The national average price of a 2,000-square-foot home in Portugal is $530,000, according to the latest My Dolce Casa real estate report. The average home price in Portugal has increased by about 6% in the past year, as the country has become one of the top homebuying destinations for Americans. In comparison, the U.S. median … Read more

Best Places to Live in Italy for $3,000 per Month

Padova Veneto Italy

If you’re looking to live abroad in retirement or for a change of lifestyle, you’re perhaps considering Italy as a place to try out. It’s certainly one of the most popular destinations for Americans to move to. With its incredible food and fairy tale beauty, you may think living in such an amazing country would be … Read more

How Much is a House in Italy in US Dollars? Here Are the Most and Least Expensive Cities to Buy a Home

Montepulciano Italy

The cost to buy a home in Italy is $378,000, on average, for a 2,000-sq-ft house, according to the latest My Dolce Casa real estate report. By comparison, the median price of a home in the US is $420,800 according to the St. Louis Fed. The national average price of real estate in Italy is … Read more

Living in the French Countryside: 10 Best Places to Buy a Country House in France

Village-in-Burgundy-France

All of France is charming, but its countryside is in a league of its own. Both admired and envied all over the world, it has inspired design styles, architectural styles and the works of numerous artists through the ages. Living in the French countryside sounds pretty idyllic, but it is not without challenges. We bought … Read more

Best Places to Live in Italy Under $2,500

Trieste Friuli Venezia Italy

Italy has grown to be the destination of dreams to retire, study or lifestyle change for lots of Americans. Fortunately, the country is not just beautiful, with incredible food, captivating history and UNESCO-protected sites, but it is one of the most affordable places to live in Mediterranean Europe.  This time, we were on the hunt … Read more