Living abroad doesn’t have to be expensive! Here is a list of affordable places where you can live a good life on a small budget.
Introduction
I once had this dream to live abroad. I packed up my stuff and flew there, all excited. But then I found out that it was way more expensive than I thought it would be! This post is here to help you avoid that stress, we will be looking into five awesome and affordable places where you can really live a great life without spending a lot of money.
5 Affordable Places To Live Abroad
Spain: Valencia (Europe)
Whenever you plan to live abroad and stay in a place with a rich culture where the cost of living is not that expensive, Valencia City is a place for you. Valencia is a city on the east coast of Spain. This city is known for its beautiful beaches, like Malvarrosa Beach, which is perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
The city also has a charming old town with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a big square called Plaza de la Reina. If you are the type who likes modern architecture, I am sure you’ll love the City of Arts and Sciences.
Valencia is also a foodie’s paradise; the city is famous for its paella, a rice dish with seafood, chicken, or vegetables. They also have amazing tapas, which are small plates of delicious food, perfect for sharing with friends.
Life in Valencia is much cheaper compared to big cities like Barcelona or Madrid. You can find a nice apartment for rent and eat out at restaurants without breaking the bank.
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise (Central America)
Costa Rica is a dream come true for nature lovers who want to live abroad. This land is blessed with rainforests teeming with exotic animals like monkeys, sloths, and toucans. You can hike through these rainforests and discover hidden waterfalls, explore mysterious caves, or spot colorful birds soaring through the trees. Costa Rica is also famous for its active volcanoes. These giant mountains can be dormant or even erupt.
But Costa Rica isn’t just about rainforests and volcanoes; the country also has beautiful beaches with calm, turquoise water. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or surfing! Whether you prefer the excitement of the waves or the tranquility of the beach, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
Costa Ricans are amazing people; they are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, and their motto, “pura vida,” truly reflects their laid-back and positive attitude towards life. Costa Ricans love spending time with their families and friends, enjoying delicious food, and celebrating life’s simple pleasures.
Colombia: A Land of Beauty (South America)
Colombia is a country overflowing with beauty; from the dramatic peaks of the Andes Mountains to the vibrant cities brimming with history and culture, this is a perfect place for anyone planning to live abroad without much financial stress. You can also visit the enchanting town of Salento, which is located in Colombia’s coffee region, to learn about the bean-to-cup process and savor a cup of some of the world’s best coffee.
Colombia’s cultural heritage is as diverse as its landscapes. You can explore the vibrant traditions of the indigenous communities, engage yourself in the rich colonial legacy that reflects in its architecture and art, and tap your feet to the infectious world of salsa music. Colombians are well known for their warmth and hospitality, always ready to welcome you with a smile and a friendly conversation.
Believe it or not, this country is surprisingly affordable to live in, especially in smaller towns and cities outside of the capital city of Bogota. You can find charming apartments or houses for rent at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay in other parts of the world. The cost of groceries and everyday essentials is also very reasonable, allowing you to live comfortably on a budget.
France: French Charm Beyond Paris (Europe)
This lovely country is one of the most popular around the world, but it is also the ideal place for people who want to live abroad. This country isn’t all about the Eiffel Tower! You could go on an adventure through the rolling fields of Bordeaux, where some of the most famous wines in the world are made. You can also sip a glass of delicious red wine while overlooking a vineyard and soaking up the beautiful French countryside.
If you are the type that craves the sea breeze, Brittany offers a dramatic coastline with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. You may think that France is expensive to live in. Here is the thing: while Paris might be expensive, smaller French towns offer a more affordable yet equally charming lifestyle. Living in France will surely allow you to experience a rich culture, delicious food, and a slower pace of life, all without financial stress.
Malaysia: A Cultural Fusion (Southeast Asia)
If you want to live abroad, Malaysia is another beautiful and economical place to do so. Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures all mix in Malaysia, making the country’s experience one of a kind. Malaysia is known for its friendly locals and affordable cost of living.
You can find comfortable apartments for rent and eat delicious meals at local restaurants without breaking the bank. Malaysia has modern infrastructure, making it easy to get around, and excellent healthcare ensures a good quality of life. Malaysia is a great place for exploring Southeast Asia, with convenient transportation options to neighboring countries like Thailand and Singapore.
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Conclusion
We have examined nothing less than five affordable places you can go when planning to live abroad, but it’s also important to be prepared. Before you book your flight and find your dream apartment, do well to take some time to research the specifics of your chosen destination. Below are a few key things to consider if you want to live abroad without stress, consider the following key points:
Visa Requirements: Different countries have different visa requirements for people who want to live there long-term. You’ll need to research the specific visa options available for your situation (work, study, retirement, etc.) and understand the application process, including any fees or documentation required.
Healthcare Options: Will you be eligible for public healthcare in your new country, or will you need to purchase private health insurance? Consider the quality and accessibility of healthcare in your chosen destination, and factor any potential healthcare costs into your budget.
Average Cost of Living: We’ve highlighted some generally affordable places to live, but it’s always a good idea to do a deeper dive into the cost of living in your specific city or town. This includes researching costs for housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and other everyday expenses. There are many online resources and cost-of-living calculators that can help you with this step.
I am sure that by taking time to research these important aspects, you can secure a smoother transition to your new life abroad. With a little preparation, you can make the most of your budget and have a truly enriching experience living in a new country.