attractions - Expat Network

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The 10 Best Places To Visit In Portugal

Portugal is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most visited countries, thanks mainly to its affordability, ideal holiday weather, and unique attractions. Located on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal’s geography differs from green farmlands and ancient towns to gorgeous vineyards and mountains in the north to the Algarve’s sensational beaches in the south. Portugal’s...

Costa Blanca And South East Spain: Popular Areas

Many expats looking to settle in Spain to live, work or retire are attracted by the climate and lifestyle to the Costa Blanca and the regions of South East Spain. Here Girasol Homes outline the attractions of these popular resorts and cities. Written by Nigel Salmon, Founder and MD, Girasol Homes Alicante The property...

Attractions Of The Costa Del Sol: Popular Areas

The southern coast of Spain, known as the Costa del Sol is one of the most popular travel destinations in all Europe. Named for the wonderful climate and the 300+ days of sunshine each year and mountain ranges that run the length of the region provide all year-round moderate temperatures like no other in Europe....

The Attractions Of Malta

Malta, with its 300 days of sunshine, laid back lifestyle, and long and colourful history has proved a popular spot for both tourists and expats. The total population is around 450,000, but this includes around 60,000 foreign nationals, of which 7,000 hold a UK passport. With its strategic position in the Mediterranean, it has long...

Expat Travel

In this section you will find many ideas with which to explore interesting areas and experiences within easy reach of your expat location – when you get some downtime. We haven’t assumed you will be flying out from the UK or the US, but rather setting off from your current overseas location. Enjoy your trip!...

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.