I got married, had kids, started a career as an expat career coach, and spent many years working and traveling around the world. My ex-husband and I always dreamed of moving to Europe once our children were older. When we divorced, I looked ahead at the rest of my life and thought, "I'll be damned if I spend the next 30 years in New Jersey."
Europe often tops the list for expats seeking vibrant cultures, rich history, and scenic landscapes. But not every European city or country lives up to the idyllic image found in travel brochures. While many places offer incredible quality of life, others fall short due to high living costs, limited job opportunities, safety concerns, or overcrowding. Sometimes, what seems like a dream destination turns out to be a logistical or financial nightmare once you settle in.
Have you ever dreamed of trading your current view for something wildly different-maybe sipping coffee in a quiet town in Portugal, working remotely from a beach in Bali, or hiking the Andes after work in Ecuador? For more and more Americans, living abroad isn't just a fantasy-it's becoming a practical, affordable lifestyle choice. Whether you're a digital nomad, a gap-year adventurer, or someone simply seeking a reset, spending a year abroad can be transformative.
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