With the British climate being predictably wet for much of the year and the cost of living in the UK forever on the increase, it’s perhaps little surprise that more and more people are taking the plunge and relocating to sunnier climes.
Article written by Bishop’s Move
But before doing so, it’s important to factor in all the pros and cons of a new life overseas. Our own research in 2012 revealed that almost a third of the UK public would consider relocating abroad, whether to escape the rising cost of living, in search of a warmer, drier climate or simply to enjoy an improved work-life balance.
Us Brits are far from work-shy, with many of us admitting to checking emails late at night and working at weekends, so it’s little wonder that many people are tempted to make the down-time enjoyed while holidaying abroad a day-to-day reality. Other cultures tend to enjoy more family time and receive better pay for the time that they are at work. Their quality of life is enhanced further by the longer daylight hours, making travelling to and from work in the dark a thing of the past.
Add to this the fact that you generally get a lot more property for your money abroad and it is little wonder that so many people are tempted to pack up and make the move overseas.
Whilst upping sticks and leaving your UK roots isn’t for everyone, those with no family ties or career commitments are more likely to be risk takers in this respect. But a new life abroad isn’t just for those who are looking to find new work, with members of the older generation also increasingly keen to move overseas in order to be closer to their children and to make the most of their golden years after retirement.
From parents seeking a better way of life for their family and young professionals looking to advance their career, through to students hoping to gain work and life experience in a different culture, moving abroad has never seemed so appealing.
In terms of the most popular re-location destinations, Australia offers the lure of the complete change in lifestyle, the warmer weather and the good job prospects for those with a skill to offer. The USA is also particularly popular among those looking to enhance their careers, whilst New Zealand is often in the top four destinations to relocate to, due to the quieter lifestyle it offers. Finally, Canada, with its higher wages, is another country that is proving popular with Brits seeking the finer things in life.
Before putting down permanent roots though, it is a good idea to visit your preferred destination at length, even renting a property for a time before relocating, to get to know the culture and the community. Visiting a country for a brief holiday often means it is seen through rose-tinted glasses and is a far cry from what it would be like to actually live there.
In order to avoid becoming too homesick when you do relocate, it’s also worth bearing in mind some of things that we take for granted in the UK, but may well miss once a move abroad is complete. Things that you may not hold in high regard currently could become big issues once it’s difficult to turn back and simply fly ‘home’ for the weekend. One common complaint we often hear amongst expats is the limited amount of TV channels they now have access to. And believe it or not, the seasonal changes we experience in the UK are often missed by those who later have difficulty acclimatising to year-round heat and sunshine.
For those that do have their heart set on a move abroad, it’s important to ensure that you’re as prepared as far in advance as possible on a practical level, in order to make the move a success. Aside from adjusting to a hotter climate, overcoming feelings of isolation from loved ones back in the UK and missing good old British TV, there are logistical challenges to be overcome too, before any move can take place.
Before the packing, shipping and unpacking begins, planning for the move should start months in advance, with estimates from removal companies sought the moment the de-cluttering begins. Doing this as early as possible will not only give you a clear idea of how much transporting belongings will cost, it will all ensure the smoothest move possible when the big day arrives.
Remember; choose a removal firm that has a dedicated International department if possible, as they will have experience and knowledge of moving to various countries around the world and will be able to facilitate a move by helping with visas, advising on international storage options and finding a suitable shipping service.
Making sure a move abroad gets off to the best start means ensuring that all your belongings are packed appropriately, whether it’s your best china, your treasured artwork or your beloved pet. Choose a removal firm that has a dedicated packing team which is trained in export packing for containerised shipping services to ensure all your belongings reach their new home in the same condition they left your old home.
For more advice on planning a successful move overseas visit www.bishopsmove.com/international-removals.
The views and comments herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Rightmove Overseas, Rightmove Group Ltd or Rightmove Plc