Best Countries To Move To From The Uk
So, you’ve been staring out of your window, watching the rain do its usual impression of a persistent drizzle, and you’ve thought, “You know what? I fancy a bit of sunshine. And maybe a pastry that doesn’t cost the earth.” You’re not alone! Loads of us in the UK have that little wanderlust bug, that urge to swap Big Ben for a beach, or a cup of builder’s tea for something a bit more… exotic.
But where on earth do you go? The world’s a big place, and while we love a good holiday, actually moving is a whole different kettle of fish. Fear not, fellow dreamers! We’ve had a little scout around, and there are some cracking places out there that might just tickle your fancy, offering a bit of everything from sunshine to, well, more sunshine.
Let’s start with a place that’s practically our European cousin, but with significantly better weather: Spain. Oh, Spain! Think endless golden beaches, tapas so good they’ll make you weep, and a pace of life that’ll have you forgetting what stress even feels like. You can practically throw a stone and hit a flamenco dancer, and the olive oil? Divine. Imagine waking up, popping to the local mercado for some fresh bread and tomatoes, and then deciding whether to have a siesta or hit the beach. Decisions, decisions! And the best bit? Many parts of Spain have a thriving expat community, so you won’t be the only one trying to master the art of ordering a coffee in Spanish. Plus, they’ve got these things called ‘churros’ – fried dough sticks dipped in chocolate. If that’s not a heartwarming reason to move, I don’t know what is.
Now, if you’re after something a little more… charming, a bit like stepping into a fairytale, then Portugal might be your jam. It’s got that lovely laid-back vibe, stunning coastlines, and cities like Lisbon and Porto that are just bursting with character. Lisbon, with its hilly streets and tram rides, feels like it’s sprung straight from a postcard. And Porto? Home of port wine, obviously, but also a beautiful riverside setting that’s perfect for sunset strolls. The food is hearty and delicious, and the people are generally super friendly. You might even find yourself picking up a bit of Portuguese – it sounds beautiful, doesn’t it? And the prices? Let’s just say your wallet will thank you. Think of all the extra pastel de nata you can buy!
Feeling adventurous and want something a bit further afield? How about the land of the rising sun, Japan? Now, this is a bit of a curveball, I know. It’s not exactly around the corner, and the language is a bit of a doozy. But hear me out! Japan is an incredible mix of ancient traditions and futuristic technology. You can be wandering through serene bamboo forests one minute and be dazzled by neon lights the next. The food is, quite simply, a work of art. Sushi so fresh it practically swims onto your plate, steaming bowls of ramen that will cure any ill, and snacks from vending machines that are more exciting than Christmas morning. Plus, the sense of order and politeness is something else. Imagine your commute being utterly silent and everyone actually queuing properly! It’s a cultural immersion like no other, and for those who embrace it, it’s truly a heartwarming experience. Plus, who wouldn’t want to witness the cherry blossom season at least once in their life?
Sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes to remember how much beauty the world has to offer.
Let’s swing back to Europe for a moment, and consider a country that’s got it all: natural beauty, vibrant cities, and a history that will keep you entertained for weeks. We’re talking about France. Yes, I know, you’re probably thinking croissants and the Eiffel Tower. And yes, those are definitely on the menu! But France is so much more. From the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux to the lavender fields of Provence, the landscapes are breathtaking. The food, naturally, is legendary – every region has its own specialties, and let’s be honest, learning to cook a decent coq au vin is a life skill. And the cities! Paris is undeniably magical, but don’t forget about places like Lyon, the gastronomic capital, or the charming villages scattered across the countryside. The French have a knack for enjoying the good things in life, and who wouldn’t want to be part of that?
And for those who dream of wide-open spaces and a life lived outdoors, what about Canada? It’s huge, it’s friendly, and the scenery will blow your socks off. Think majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and forests that go on forever. The cities are diverse and multicultural, from the buzz of Toronto to the laid-back charm of Vancouver. Canadians are known for their politeness (they’re practically the kings and queens of saying ‘sorry’), and there’s a real sense of community. Plus, you can actually see the Northern Lights in some parts of the country! Imagine that! Skiing, hiking, kayaking – if you’re an outdoorsy type, Canada is your playground. And the poutine? It’s a must-try, trust me.
Moving abroad is a big step, but it’s also an incredible adventure. Whether you’re craving sunshine, culture, or just a really good croissant, there’s a corner of the world out there waiting for you. So, keep dreaming, keep planning, and who knows, you might just find your new favourite place to call home.