Moving abroad is always so appealing. Leaving the hustle, bustle, rain, and boredom behind for another country full of sun and color is enough to get anyone on a plane. But where to? Well, if you’re looking east, we have a list of viable options for you. Each one has been chosen due to a variety of factors, be they easiest to adapt to, cheapest or most to do. Take a look at our options and you might find yourself looking up flight prices.
1. The Philippines
Expats dreaming of a laid-back life sleeping under palm trees in a tropical climate should take a look at the Philippines. Made up of a deserted cluster of islands in which the locals mostly speak English and are very welcoming to foreigners can only be good news.
You can wake up with your toes in the sand and the waves lapping lullabying you back to dreamland or grab a boat and go island hopping. Each one has a unique culture varied throughout the country from the rural to the city.
To put the cherry on top, the cost of living is famously very low. Once you get out of the more tourist-filled areas it gets even cheaper. The one drawback probably stalling your hand is the Philippines’ reputation for being unsafe. This has been worked on significantly over the islands. However, being a less developed country, the quality of schools, hospitals and public transport is lesser across more rural areas.
2. Singapore
Singapore is like Malaysia’s city equivalent, which is also on this list by the way. Since they are both small islands surrounded by the same countries, they share a lot of culture in common. Singapore gives an added appreciation for technology and advancement, creating a wider variety of competitive jobs. Plus, English is the official language of business, meaning less of a need to mime out of what you’re trying to say.
Singapore also has a very diverse population, which in turn means, a large variety of delicious food. The islands have three major types of local cuisine: Malay, Chinese and Indian, with the cross variations that would naturally come with. There will always be something new to try.
However, moving to Singapore will take some planning, since it is best to have your job and accommodation sorted before you move. The cost of property can be particularly steep in Singapore, but the cost of living beyond housing more than makes up for it as well as the quality of life. Arriving in temporary accommodation will allow you to explore the island and browse the best mortgage rates in Singapore.
It is vital to secure your job in Singapore before you come since strict employment laws regulate the ability of their workers. You will need to get your hands on an employment pass from the Ministry of Manpower before you make any other moves.
3. Thailand
Thailand is many experiences all wrapped in the one country. You can find ancient temples and local wildlife in the north, beach-side living and a party strip lifestyle in the south and in the middle of it all is the country’s gem, the city capitol of Bangkok. The gem of the country offers a modern world city experience with an ever-evolving culture found around every tight corner. Bangkok attracts foreigners from all over, with a substantial growing digital industries sector. You can have a different holiday every time you go travelling in this country.
Chiang Mai is a city especially attractive to expats. It is a foreigner-friendly area and a popular choice for both families and digital nomads looking to enjoy the laid-back vibe. Those looking for a slower pace of life will be attracted to the sun-kissed beach resorts of Phuket.
Crucially, all of these options offer flexible visas for long-term stay. The retirement visa allows people over 50 with a minimum monthly income to live. Or perhaps you’re more suited to the Non B visa for businesspeople, and the new Smart Visa which is a four-year-long visa that includes spouse and children.
4. Malaysia
For those attracted to the idea of Singapore but is maybe put off by the hustle and bustle lifestyle, there is Malaysia. It’s a beautiful option for one who wishes for the simple life.
There are so many enjoyable activities in Malaysia, it makes it hard to feel bored, but the natural environment also makes it hard to feel overwhelmed. Stress will just fall off your when you’re walking along a sandy beach or hiking up a mountain or exploring the rainforest.
Plus, compared to Singapore the cost of living in Malaysia is famously low. Money from a more developed country can last a long time, offering a better standard of living. Plus, remittances from abroad are not taxed at source.
Even with a steady incline in house prices, accommodations is very reasonable compared to other countries. Detached houses are widely available for rent and purchase and apartment living means living in a building constructed in the past 20 years which come with a variety of facilities like tennis courts, pools, BBQ areas, gyms and more.
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