If you consider that about nine million US citizens are living abroad, it’s completely understandable to think about international relocation. Starting a new adventure in a completely different place takes a lot of planning. The first step is choosing one of the best countries to live in. After a challenging 2020 year that affected us all, packing up and moving to the place of your dreams has never seemed so tempting.
Learning how to move abroad is just one of the tasks that have to be done to avoid moving stress. However, this process isn’t only figuring out what to pack and making a relocation checklist. You’ll have to choose one of the best countries in the world to live in and be sure that place can offer everything you want and like. Since there are 195 countries over the globe, you may need some help in choosing one. That’s what we made a list of the places that will narrow down your research.
What Is the Best Country in the World to Live In – How to Choose and What Criteria Are Important?
People move internationally for many reasons. Many want to start over when relocating alone, and others are looking for great places to live abroad with family or maybe retire abroad. On the other hand, many of us are seeking better job opportunities or want to start our own business in a new place.
The definition of the perfect country is a very subjective thing. For some, nightlife plays an essential role, and for others, safety is a priority, especially when relocating with kids (which you can check easily on Numbeo.) In any of these cases, you should follow some criteria that each place should offer you. No one said moving across the planet would be easy, so arm yourself with patience and begin with checking the following criteria:
- Cost of living,
- Job market,
- Healthcare,
- Safety,
- Education,
- Climate.
Which Country Is No 1 in the World and How Do You Know It’s the Right for You
Once you have an idea of what criteria to follow, the next step is to decide what you want from that new place. Many people travel abroad during Covid-19 because they want a different experience, a chance to thrive and learn about cultures they’ve never met before. Or simply to connect with family and friends or moving overseas for love.
The main questions to ask are where to move and what country is #1 in quality of life. Asking someone who already moved and lives in another place could be a good idea, but keep in mind that we all have different wants and needs. That’s how for someone, for example, relocating to Italy is all dreams come true, and for you, maybe not.
As exciting as it can sound, this process requires enough time because not only is it lifestyle changing, but it can be scary too. However, for most people, it’s the greatest decision in their lives. You’ll get a chance to learn different things, grow and meet other people.
Inspirational Trip Before Moving Abroad Is a Great Way of Choosing the New Home
Whether you’ll stay a year, three years, or you’ll make it a home and spend the rest of your life in that place, knowing some facts about it is your homework. Living overseas can be a great experience. It can help you advance on so many levels, but before you start to feel like part of the community, think about all the ways you can adjust to the new place.
For many, the trigger for relocation abroad was visiting that specific place before. This is a great way to deal with all the differences regarding the culture and some particular laws. Depending on where you like to move, some places will have very different lifestyles, and culture shock is normal. However, we all know that traveling requires a lot of money and time. Luckily, nowadays, with all the technology and the internet, you can get informed easier and faster than ever.
#1 Costa Rica – One of the Best Countries to Live In The World Where You Can Spend Retirement Years
You work hard all year long, and you’ve decided to give yourself a break when retirement comes. There’s no better reward than to move to an exotic place and enjoy the perks of being there and making it home. With a stable democracy, educated population, and environmental sustainability, Costa Rica is one of the happiest rated places. No wonder why not just students and adventurists want to come here. Also, more and more people consider spending their retirement years in this heaven on Earth.
Since it’s one of the happiest places all over the globe, with a low cost of living, this place with abundant wildlife and stunning beaches and shores will secure you safe retirement years.
#2 Mexico – Simple Life and High-Quality Healthcare
Many of us wonder if moving to Mexico is a good idea? Everyone here is more than welcoming, and the proximity to the US makes this place a great destination where you can have a simple life and worry about keeping in touch with your friends and family.
However, if you opt to relocate to Mexico, it doesn’t mean all you have to do is adjusting to the different culture. Because of their laid-back lifestyle, there won’t be that uncomfortable feeling of being an outsider. Don’t be surprised if locals stop you in the middle of the street just to have a little chat with you – it’s a part of their everyday lifestyle.
On the other hand, the healthcare is excellent and one of the most significant benefits if you move here. Every year the healthcare system is improving because of the modern technology they are using.
#3 Spain – Place With Many English-Speaking Expat Communities
If you’re looking for a place where it’s easy to move to, then Spain is just the right choice for you. US citizens can enter and stay here for 90 days without a visa. After that, the applicant has to obtain a visa for a long-term stay. So, relocating to Spain means you won’t have to think (right away) about all those documents you need to gather when moving overseas.
As you probably know, the official language here is Spanish. However, many English-speaking communities could be a lifesaver in the first period after the move. Knowing how to move to another place is one thing, and knowing what to do after moving is entirely different. That’s when the expat communities come into the picture. Not only can they share their experiences with you about some specific law or customs, but they also help you learn the language.
We all know that breaking the language barrier sometimes can be just too overwhelming, and those tips for learning the language expats gave you will mean much more than they did then.
#4 South Korea – The Center for Popular Culture
South Korea sits between China and Japan, and it’s some kind of gateway to East Asia. Because of its rich culture and history, no wonder why this place is one of the biggest cultural hubs. Furthermore, South Korea has become an economic powerhouse and exports high-tech items like smartphones and automobiles. On the other hand, sharing its unique food, music, and culture with the rest of the globe has only established this place as a cultural hub worth visiting and living in.
However, when moving to South Korea, you should know that the English language won’t mean as much as you thought. South Koreans are a bit shy, and they won’t communicate with you in English. That’s why learning some basics of the Korean language is a must.
#5 Singapore – High Average of Expats Number in This Vibrant Place
Its translation name is “Lion City,” and it’s justified. Singapore may be one of the smaller countries in sunny Southeast Asia and the fourth-largest financial center and third-highest income per capita over the globe.
One of the reasons why this place has over 30% of foreign citizens is undoubtedly the high quality of life. In fact, it’s a popular destination for expats workers since it’s the greatest economy for business on the planet. The banking sector here plays a significant role, which is another factor in drawing expats seeking professional improvement. So, if you want to work in a large multinational corporation and feel the gimps of the vibrant cities, then Singapore is the right place for you.
#6 Switzerland – Place Where People Experience the Greatest Quality of Life
According to many surveys, Switzerland is one of the best European countries to live in. The reason is quite simple – work and life here are well balanced. From numerous job opportunities, excellent healthcare, and top-notch education, it’s easy to understand how Switzerland secured the top-rated place in European countries.
Switzerland is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, too. The outstanding quality of life has much to do with the possibility to explore nature – mountains, lakes, and villages. Since it’s located in the center of Europe, you’ll have proximity to other places you can easily visit. For example, Italy, Germany, France. Relocating to Switzerland will bring you many advantages that will improve your lifestyle on many levels.
#7 Germany – Most Populous Nation in the European Union
Working in Europe as an American can be a challenging process, depending, of course, on where you prefer living and working. If relocating to Germany is what you decided, you won’t have to worry about job opportunities. However, regardless of so many work opportunities, the job market is competitive (it’s the most populous nation in the European Union.) That’s why you should begin with learning the German language before the relocation day. And if you have science and engineering skills, even with the competitive job market, you’ll be able to find your dream job.
When relocating to Germany carefully research the cities, and pick the one that will suit all of your needs. If you can’t make a decision on your own, check some of the greatest cities in the video below.
Overseas Moving Company Will Make Your Dream Come True
Relocating overseas is a challenging task. Everything should be planned thoroughly until the end because you surely don’t want any inconvenience during the process. Hiring professionals with reliable international moving services might be the right choice. Not only you’ll get help with the packing services and, if needed, also storage facilities, but also if you want to ship your car overseas. Imagine how stressful it would all be if you didn’t have a reliable crew to take care of all services for this relocation? Don’t take your chances and take all the help you can get.
