Betsy Burlingame

Belle-Île-en-Mer is one of those rare places that looks cinematic but also has a real, year-round community. Living there can be beautiful and deeply calming, but it also requires comfort with ferry-dependent logistics, seasonal swings, and the realities of island life.

Located nearly 1,500 km west of Lisbon in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are nine volcanic islands that offer a dramatically different lifestyle from mainland Portugal. With their raw natural beauty, relaxed pace, and strong sense of community, the islands are increasingly attracting expats who want a calmer, more authentic way of life surrounded by nature.

The Algarve and Cascais are two of Portugal’s most appealing coastal choices for expats, but they offer very different lifestyles. The Algarve stands out for affordability, weather, and real estate value, while Cascais stands out for its international community, schools, and connection to Lisbon.

Koh Samui offers a unique blend of tropical lifestyle and everyday livability, with affordable housing, modern amenities, and a growing expat community. While the climate and visa process require adjustment, it can be an appealing option for those seeking a slower pace of life by the beach.

Dublin remains Ireland's dominant tech hub with major players like Google and Meta, but in 2026 Cork, Galway, and Limerick are emerging as strong alternatives offering lower living costs, better work-life balance, and specialized opportunities in fintech/AI (Cork), MedTech (Galway), and engineering/hardware (Limerick). These "hidden gems" provide multinational roles with less competition and faster career growth, making them increasingly attractive for expats seeking high-quality tech jobs outside the capital.

Corsica is a rugged French island in the Mediterranean where mountains, historic towns, and turquoise beaches all exist within short driving distance of each other. Home to about 340,000 people, the island blends French public services with a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, strong local culture, and some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe.

Tortuga Island showcases the natural beauty that draws so many people to Costa Rica, but it also highlights the larger reasons expats choose the country — stability, healthcare access, and long-term residency options. While no one lives on the island itself, it reflects the balance of nature and infrastructure that makes Costa Rica a practical and appealing relocation choice.

Moving abroad can significantly change how your 401(k), IRA, or Roth account is treated, from provider restrictions to unexpected tax consequences. Planning before you relocate — and understanding how both countries handle retirement accounts — can help prevent costly mistakes.

Costa Rica continues to attract expats for practical reasons: political stability, universal healthcare, established residency pathways, and a predictable framework for daily life. While its beaches and biodiversity get attention, it is structure and long-term viability that keep the country consistently on shortlists.

At £4,000 a month, the difference between London and Spain isn't just cultural — it's structural. Housing costs, taxes, and everyday expenses can create two very different levels of financial margin, and that margin often shapes whether staying makes sense long term.

Mexico and Panama top many 2025–2026 expat lists (often ranking No. 1–3 globally), so dive into this head-to-head: Mexico tempts with lower costs and endless variety, while Panama hooks with effortless residency and top healthcare—which one's your hidden gem?

Both Thailand and Vietnam offer unique expat experiences in a part of Asia that many expats find alluring. This article offers a glimpse of what makes each of these Southeast Asian nations a good fit for different personalities.

can you write a 2 sentence summary for me Christmas traditions around the world vary widely, blending family gatherings, religious observances, and unique cultural customs—from Costa Rica's tamale feasts and pura vida celebrations to Japan's commercial focus on strawberry cakes and fried chicken. In places like Spain and Mexico, the season extends with multiple gift-giving days and elaborate meals, while the Netherlands and Finland emphasize cozy, multi-day holidays with hearty comfort foods and festive treats.

More and more retirees are setting their sights on international destinations for their golden years. A multitude of them invest years contemplating their best places to retire overseas - delving into research, engaging in discussions on Expat Exchange, and spending considerable time in the places they're considering. Here's a list of 41 of best places to retire abroad in 2024.

Thailand and the Philippines are two popular expat destinations in Southeast Asia, offering tropical climates, affordable living, and rich cultural experiences. Thailand provides a more predictable weather pattern with distinct seasons, while the Philippines has a humid, maritime climate with regional variations. Both countries offer lower costs of living compared to Western nations, with Thailand excelling in healthcare and the Philippines offering widespread English proficiency.