Long gone are the days when people spent most of their lives living and earning at one place. People today look for new environment, better work opportunities and chance to experience different world cities. There are numerous places to choose from and that itself makes the task daunting. The major considerations are the quality of life, safety, job opportunities, salary structures, and raising children abroad.
Let us take a look at some of the best expat destinations worldwide. The places those are best in terms of economics, job market, safety, and childcare.
The Top 10 Best Places to Live and Work:
10. Hong Kong
A perfect example of ‘East meets West’, this Chinese protectorate is a bustling land with population of over seven million. Hong Kong has outgrown mainland China, having its own currency and set of laws. Job opportunities are plenty, with high salaries and large disposable income. Advanced healthcare system and quality of education are other positive factors. Also Read; 10 Most Popular Holiday Spots.
9. Australia
With low population levels and high quality of life, Australia is one country that expats do not feel like leaving. Australia has favorable weather. Settling in is not a hassle. There are plenty of options when it comes to food and recreation. However, poor public transportation and below average childcare are the concern areas. Read Also; 10 Interesting Facts About Australia.
8. Philippines
With friendly atmosphere and ease of settling, the Philippine archipelago is one of the leading choices for people to work and live in. Filipinos are optimistic by nature and have family-oriented culture. The cost of living is another thing that attracts expats. The country has a strong economy and a decent education system. Read also: 10 Most Attractive Young Philippines Stars.
7. Spain
This Western European country offers a pleasant weather with year-round sunshine, which happens to be a primary reason for expats to move in especially from EU (no VISA required). The need for skilled professionals is on the rise and so are the job opportunities. The country is no slouch on the social scene either.
6. Singapore
Singapore does really well when it comes to “quality of life”. It is particularly good for raising children, given its quality of education and great childcare. Expats mostly look up to generous salary packages, low tax rates and better career opportunities. Public transport in country is cheap and very reliable. Singapore is at No.1 on the list of 10 Most Attractive Air-Hostesses. Also one of the best places to live and work in Asia.
5. USA
USA greets a big number of expats every year. It is the ease of settling and citizen’s friendliness that makes it one of the best countries for expats. There is no dearth of recreational activities too. NYC offers plenty of job opportunities. With its diverse mix of people, it has become a popular hub of expats, attracting even larger number. Read also; 10 Cheapest Cities in The USA.
4. Switzerland
This mountainous country tops in terms of “quality of life”. A major percentage of expats include those interested in the country’s banking industry and financial markets. Zurich in particular has a very high standard of living, so most expats settle down in and around the city. The city has efficient public transportation of trains, tram and buses, making commuting easy. Even healthcare is amazing. Country’s gorgeous scenery is an added advantage. There are plenty of leisure options both summer and winter. Another best places to live and work in Europe. Read Also; 10 Most Popular Ski Resorts.
3. Mexico
Mexico is a sure shot winner when it comes to the “ease of settling” quotient. The country also ranks high in terms of “personal happiness” and “leisure options”. It makes expats feel right at home. Though moving for a job stays the primary reason, amazingly, many people move to Mexico for “love”. People in such case either moved in to join their partner or moved along with them. On the flip side, Mexico does not fare well when it comes to personal safety. However, the Mexico City has seen a drop in crime since 2011. Read Also; 10 Strangest Museums Around the World.
2. Luxembourg
This tiny European country offers plenty of job opportunities to career oriented expats. Reportedly, expats make up approximately 40% of Luxembourg’s population. That gives the country an international flavor and makes it more attractive to foreigners. Connecting with other expats becomes easier. Further, the country has an above-average infrastructure for travel and transport. Even the health and safety scenario is quite satisfying. However, people face difficulty making friends with locals. It’s one of the best places to live and work in Europe.
Read Also; 10 Most Happy Countries Around the World.
1. Ecuador
Expats are usually very happy with their economical situation in Ecuador. They find the country to be very friendly, conducive to easy settling and getting the ‘at home’ feel. However, many expats face language difficulties. According to InterNations Survey, over one-third expats agree that it is very difficult to live in Ecuador without speaking Spanish. On the positive side, one in three expats also think that Spanish is very easy to learn. Ecuador also ranks highest when it comes to personal happiness, with a considerable number of expats choosing to stay there for the rest of their life.
