Expat Advice

Learn From International Living's Expat Network

International Living's expat network is your key to a new life in a new country. Get real, honest advice from people just like you. Discover the tips, tricks, shortcuts, and strategies you can use to cut through red tape and improve your life overseas right away.

Read about and learn from real-life experiences our expats have had in their new home countries, from health care to taxes and much more.

Expat Advice Articles

Enjoy Freedom, Opportunity, and Adventure When You Move Overseas
Posted on January 24, 2012 by Glynna Prentice

Five years into my expat life, I look forward to downsizing. In fact, I recently bought a small, manageable, lock-and-leave property in Guanajuato, in the Colonial Highlands. It’s a far cry from what I thought I wanted when I first moved to Mexico… Then, I’d wanted a good-sized house, instead of an apartment as I’d had in the U.S.
The Tips, Tricks and Secrets to Retiring Overseas
Posted on January 23, 2012 by Dan Prescher

When my wife, Suzan Haskins, and I moved overseas in 2001, we had no idea how much we didn’t know about living abroad. But we learned quickly. I still remember trying to figure out the nuts and bolts of Spanish hardware…literally.
Get a Safe Deposit Box Overseas
Posted on January 18, 2012 by Robert Bauman

A safe deposit box is just a lockable metal box or drawer, inside a bank or private vault, which is used for safely storing your valuables. And the annual rent for a safe deposit box can be as little as $500. On a traditional safe deposit box there are two different keys, both of which must be used to open the box. One key (usually two copies of it) is given to you as the box renter.
Cutting-Edge Wealth Protection
Posted on January 16, 2012 by Robert Bauman

These islands are an independent country joined in “free association” with New Zealand. It has its own government and court system, the New Zealand dollar is the local currency, and it definitely qualifies as what used to be called a “tax haven,” now replaced by the politically correct term “offshore financial center.” Fifteen in all, their beaches are of white-powdered sands, the waters aquamarine and turquoise, and the climate ideal.
The Best Retiree Benefits in the World in 2012
Posted on January 10, 2012 by International Living

There are a number of special benefits, discounts and breaks you can gain access to as a retiree overseas. Some countries stand out for the amount and quality of benefits they offer foreign retirees. Panama tops the category with an organized program of discounts and perks called the pensionado. The program is open to foreigners and there’s no minimum age requirement.
Expat 101: Overseas Finances Made Easy
Posted on January 5, 2012 by Suzan Haskins

If you’re a U.S. citizen you’ll never be able to walk away from the dollar completely—even if you move overseas. Likewise if you’re a Canadian or citizen of another country—it’s hard to totally divorce yourself from your national currency. Here are two reasons why…
The Most Affordable Places in the World
Posted on January 5, 2012 by Eoin Bassett

The country that takes the number-one spot in the Annual Global Retirement Index 2012 is also the clear winner in our cost of living category. A couple watching their spending here can live well on $800 a month.
New List Reveals Best Countries to Live
Posted on January 4, 2012 by Eoin Bassett

Look at the right places beyond our borders today, and you’ll find you have more good choices than ever for a comfortable—even a pampered—retirement. In any one of our top 19 havens for 2012, a lifestyle well beyond your reach in the States could be yours for pennies on the dollar.
The Scores and How Our 2012 Retirement Index Works
Posted on December 31, 2011 by International Living

In our Retirement Index this year, we’ve changed how we do things, narrowing down the countries we focus on to the top 19, and considering each across eight crucial categories: real estate, special retirement benefits, cost of living, ease of integration, entertainment and amenities, health care, retirement infrastructure and climate.
The World’s Top Retirement Havens in 2012
Posted on December 31, 2011 by International Living

Look at the right places beyond our borders today, and you’ll find you have more good choices than ever for a comfortable – even a pampered – retirement. In any one of our top 19 havens for 2012, a lifestyle well beyond your reach in the States could be yours for pennies on the dollar. In this, our annual Global Retirement Index, we bring you the top choices available on the planet today.
Solid Advice About Moving Overseas
Posted on December 27, 2011 by Dan Prescher

Years ago we’d talk confidently about the benefits of Mexico versus Argentina…or Ecuador versus Costa Rica. I’m finding that we don’t do that as much these days.
The Problem With These IL Countries is…
Posted on December 21, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

It’s impossible to compare and contrast the merits or disadvantages of entire countries. It’s not because there aren’t differences between entire countries… there are obvious and, sometimes, major ones. The visa choices and requirements of Belize may be a better match for you than those of Nicaragua. Panama’s tax laws may meet your needs better than those of Costa Rica right now.
The World’s Best Retirement Havens
Posted on December 20, 2011 by anon

Look at the right places beyond our borders today, and you’ll find you have more good choices than ever for a comfortable – even a pampered – retirement. In any one of our top 19 havens for 2012, a lifestyle well beyond your reach in the States could be yours for pennies on the dollar.
Thailand: Teach English Overseas
Posted on December 6, 2011 by Chris Clancy

About nine years ago I traveled to Thailand for a vacation…and I immediately fell in love with the place. The food, the culture, the beaches, the friendliness of the people…but most of all, the weather. Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles.” I think the Thais are so happy because every morning when they wake up they see the sun shining in their windows.
Uruguay: Have You Discovered This Low-Tax Haven?
Posted on December 4, 2011 by Robert Bauman

There’s even more to Uruguay than beautiful beaches, attractive riverside towns, vibrant capital, friendly people, and profitable property investments. If you’re looking for an environment where your money is safe, you and your family can feel secure, and taxes are low, this country should be on your short list.
Retire to France or Malaysia: International Living’s December Magazine is Now Online
Posted on December 2, 2011 by Jennifer Stevens

Old beliefs die hard—but we’re doing our best here at IL to speed them on their way. From Penang, Malaysia to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico…Dublin, Ireland to the Pacific coast of Nicaragua…from Bilbao, Spain to Mérida, Venezuela…this month’s issue of International Living magazine is packed with boots-on-the-ground revelations about destinations you may think you know…
Retirement Rescue 101
Posted on November 24, 2011 by Darius Fisher

If anyone needed a retirement rescue—it was Ron and Terresa Moore. But thanks to low-cost Ecuador, they’re enjoying a relaxing early retirement in a warm, sunny climate. They have quality health care for $133 a month. And today they “sleep like babies every night,” says Ron. Back in July 2007, Ron and Terresa were living easy. But fast forward to December 2008. After 30 years, they found themselves out of work.
The Truth About Living in Ecuador
Posted on November 17, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

When Patrick Robinson lived in Hawaii, he made a snapshot list of what the perfect society might look like. The more research he did the more convinced he became that this place was Ecuador. One place in particular jumped out at him. But still, he wasn’t sure he should go off on this adventure. After all, he was more than 80 years old.
Video: The Cost of Living in Lake Chapala, Mexico
Posted on November 16, 2011 by Glynna Prentice

In this video, IL’s Mexico editor Glynna Prentice talks about the cost of living in Lake Chapala, Mexico. Lake Chapala, located in central Mexico, is an affordable expat haven that is one of the easiest places to retire abroad, thanks to thousands of English-speaking expats and US-style amenities. It’s a part of the world where it’s easy to afford a cook, a maid, and a gardener.
The Great Ecuadorian Escape
Posted on November 16, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

“In 2007, we had great jobs and were pulling down good money. Our retirement account was growing steadily,” says Ron Moore. “Then, it seemed like overnight, everything changed.” The car dealership where Ron and his wife, Terresa, were both part of the executive management team, went out of business. As the economy down-spiraled, so did the couple’s savings.
The Low Cost of Living in Ecuador
Posted on November 15, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

John and Sue live in Vilcabamba in southern Ecuador. Known as the Valley of Longevity because it’s such a healthy, stress-free place that residents commonly live to be 100 or more, you gotta figure it’s a very good thing that living there costs so little. John and Sue, who are right around 50 and have been retired for more than four years now, have a very long life ahead of them.
A New Life in Belize on $60/day (Per Couple)
Posted on November 7, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

Grab your bathing suit and flip flops (that’s all you’ll need) and head for Belize—the only country in Central America where English is the official language. Expats here report that the monthly cost of living in Belize, on average, is about $1,800 (about $60/day). In Belize you don’t need much…
7 of the Best Latin American Countries to Start a Business
Posted on November 3, 2011 by Eoin Bassett

It might be a palapa bar on a white-sand beach, deep-sea fishing tours, a restaurant, a surf shop… Whatever your idea, there’s a place overseas where you can make it a profitable reality. But readers ask us all the time: Where is best? That’s why we’ve put together International Living’s first-ever Business Index.
The Overseas Cell Phone Fix
Posted on October 27, 2011 by Lee Harrison

When traveling abroad with an eye toward retiring or buying a second home, you’re going to need a local phone number. This allows you to make inexpensive local calls while you’re overseas. And, just as importantly, it allows local people to call you.
Thinking of a Business Overseas? Here’s What the World Needs
Posted on October 21, 2011 by Robert Carry

For International Living’s first ever Business Index we asked our in-country correspondents and a host of expat entrepreneurs what opportunities they see around them in their new homes. These gaps in the market include everything from small guesthouses to dog grooming services… read on to spot your opportunity.
Colombia’s El Poblado: Mature, Active and Under-Valued
Posted on October 21, 2011 by Lee Harrison

Medellín combines three important benefits that most of us look for when searching for an overseas destination; year-round excellent weather, an enviable lifestyle, and affordable properties. And in 10 years of searching the world for the perfect getaway, I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
An Expat Business in Panama
Posted on October 18, 2011 by Pha Lo

When not behind the counter of his Panama City bagel shop, Jon Hurst makes the most of his adopted home. The Maine native has lived in Panama City for six years, and with easy access to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as the country’s magnificent highlands, he’s spoiled for choice.
Caribbean Beach Bargains in the Dominican Republic
Posted on October 17, 2011 by Len Galvin

Columbus landed in the Dominican Republic in 1492—the same year he “discovered” some of the other Caribbean islands. Like those other islands, the Dominican Republic is ringed by white sand beaches and coconut palms. Unspoiled towns boast stone churches and candy-colored home facades.
Take Back the Retirement You Deserve
Posted on October 15, 2011 by Len Galvin

Timing is critical when it comes to rescuing your retirement. Now more than ever, hard-working folks just like you are asking themselves: How do I do it? Do I work longer, try to save more… or do I have another option? Our response: You have lots of options.
Shock Announcement About the Easiest Place to Retire
Posted on October 10, 2011 by Lee Harrison

Choosing a destination that’s easy to retire in can often mean missing out on the wonder, awe and adventure of a new land and a new beginning.
Spend as Much Time as You Want in Your 2 Favorite Cities
Posted on September 27, 2011 by Marsha Swan

I’ve always loved to travel, so when I had to decide between the freedom of working for myself…and the stability of a full-time job, it was no contest—I quit. Since then, I get to travel more-or-less whenever I want. I’ve spent lots of time in Paris, France and am still based in one of my favorite cities: Dublin, Ireland. (Plus, I only work about 30 hours a week.)
Ecuador: Where Everything Comes With a Sea View and Small Price Tag
Posted on September 27, 2011 by Len Galvin

Mike spent a lot of time since then looking for somewhere that reminded him of those beaches in Southern California—including Guatemala, Mexico, and Costa Rica. But it wasn’t until he discovered one particular stretch of Pacific coast in Ecuador that he felt like he’d “come home to 50s California…”
How to Get an Irish Passport
Posted on September 24, 2011 by Robert Bauman

“We are all Irish today.” That’s a ritual saying U.S. politicians repeat each St Patrick’s Day. They’re identifying with the nearly 40 million citizens of the United States, nearly 12% of the total, who trace their ancestry to Ireland.
Video: The Top 5 Retirement Havens in the World
Posted on September 21, 2011 by Dan Prescher

International Living has been covering this beat for more than 30 years, and each Global Retirement Index we put together just gets more interesting. I’ll give you a little example… what do you think are the top five best places to retire on this year’s Index?
The Truth About Living Overseas
Posted on September 20, 2011 by Greg Patrick

I had always dreamed of moving overseas. About five years ago, while in my mid-20s, I got the guts and actually did. Now my little piece of “paradise” is smack-dab in the heart of the 17th largest city in the world: Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Note From the Editor
Posted on September 16, 2011 by Jennifer Stevens

Seventy percent of Americans have no passport. No wonder, as a people, we know so little about the world beyond our borders. Not you. You’re reading International Living… I trust you possess both a passport and the regular urge to use it.
First Impressions—New Expats Find their Feet
Posted on September 16, 2011 by International Living

These new expatse have made the big move—now they call Belize, Mexico and Nicaragua home.
Find Your New Horizons Overseas
Posted on September 16, 2011 by Lee Harrison

When you ﬁrst move abroad almost everything you see is a wonderful surprise. And if you’re lucky, as I was in Ecuador, the wonder can last for years.
Costa Rica: The Secret of a Healthy, Happy Life
Posted on September 15, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

“Costa Rica offers true freedom,” Todd says. “They say that about the U.S., but Costa Rica really does offer true freedom.” No one bothers you here, the government is non-invasive and stable, there aren’t people protesting in the streets…people are happy. Sociologists have actually proven that Costa Ricans are the happiest people on the planet.
Costa Rica’s Top Towns: Friendliest, Best, Cheapest
Posted on September 14, 2011 by Suzan Haskins

We just learned about the top places in Costa Rica that make the most sense for expats to live, to rent, buy real estate, become part of a community and have access to all the amenities that make life comfortable and enjoyable.