Work opportunities
James moved to China from South Africa for work. "I left Capetown in 2009 and traveled to China. First, I was here to study Chinese. Back then, there was a lot of talk about how the Chinese language would be the next big thing and potentially replace English in international exchanges. This never happened. But what I got from China instead was a career. As an English major, it was very hard for me to find a job in SA, and what I could find paid so low that I would not even be able to afford rent. China was different. First, I got lots of offers to teach English – this is what allowed me to stay here and make quite a bit of money, working full-time and giving private lessons. Later, I transitioned into a different niche, started working in tech, and eventually made my way up to product manager. I wouldn't have been able to do this in SA—and in such a short time. So, as long as I am able to do what I love and get interesting career opportunities, I am not going back to South Africa. Honestly, I just don't see the point."
Work opportunities are a common theme when it comes to reasons expats quote for not wanting to return. In reality, some countries have more to offer when it comes to building a career or starting a business. Expats who have found a destination that is a good match for realizing their professional goals generally prefer to stay and explore these opportunities in full.
Cost of living
Alina moved to Thailand from the UK to live at a lower cost. "Ever since I visited Thailand in 2014, I knew I was going to move there eventually. I loved the country, the people, the nature, and the food. But what tipped the scale for me was how much more I could afford on my salary. Rent was cheaper, food was cheaper, and going out with friends was so affordable – and there were so many options! I felt so much more relaxed in Thailand on my budget, and I just didn't want to let go of this feeling. Prices in London are notoriously high, making life in the city very stressful. I was already walking partially remotely, so I talked to my employer about making my contract fully remote but with a salary decrease. They agreed, and my salary decrease was more than compensated by my relocation to Thailand. Even with a smaller budget, I could still afford more."
The cost of living is another important factor that often makes expats reconsider returning home. This is especially true for expats coming from countries in Western Europe, the UK, or the US, where the cost of living can be particularly high. The contrast in the type of lifestyle expats can afford back home and in less expensive destinations is often what makes them decide in favor of a more affordable location.
Taxes and business opportunities
Jason moved to Hong Kong from the UK. "Hong Kong is a tax-free zone, and this makes everything so much simpler. It has a strong network of banks, and managing a business is very streamlined. I have nothing bad to say about the UK, but I probably wouldn't be able to run my trading company there as I do here (*in Hong Kong)."
Destinations like Hong Kong and Singapore in Southeast Asia and Dubai in the Middle East are attractive to investors and entrepreneurs because of their favorable conditions for setting up and running a business. They complement these conditions with a developed infrastructure and easy connections to the rest of the world.
Crypto-friendliness
Vincent moved to Bali (Indonesia) from the United States. "Lawmakers in the US can't make up their minds about crypto, and it's making things very difficult for people like me who just want to benefit from the technology. Things are easy in Indonesia, and along with Thailand, it's becoming a popular spot for people like me. I don't think I would consider relocating back to the US in the near future."
As new as crypto currencies are, they have already created some divisions between countries. Some have embraced them, some have placed restrictions, and some have left the new technology in limbo, prompting enthusiasts to seek favorable ground elsewhere.
Better weather
Magda moved from Poland to Türkiye. "I came to Fethiye (*a city in Western Türkiye) on a two-week holiday. I was instantly taken in by nature, the sea, and the mountains. But I never thought about moving. Then I came to Fethiye again, this time in winter. I couldn't believe the weather was just as nice in summer as in winter. This is when I knew I was going to move - and I did. I've been here for over two years, and I am not thinking about returning unless it's a short summer visit".
Climate and weather seem to be another set of recurring themes in this conversation. And there is science behind it. Research shows that beautiful scenery makes people happier. And it's been long known that warmer and sunnier climates help our brains release serotonin, "the happy hormone". The practice of retiring to warmer climates has long been popular. But now, when remote work is often an option, people have the opportunity to enjoy warmer weather earlier.
Life is just easier here
Olga moved from Belarus to Vietnam. "I've never been much of a traveler. But some recent events in my country have led me to consider moving, and I did. Life in Vietnam is easy—II don't know how else to explain it. The people are nice, the food is great, and the country is beautiful. Life here isn't slow, but it's enthusiastic—maybe that's the right word. People seem excited about life here, and I love it".
Finally, lifestyle is a paramount factor. Sometimes, a more accommodating lifestyle is reason enough for a person to plan a relocation. Some may call it escapism - but is there really anything wrong with trying to limit your exposure to stress? Some countries almost naturally offer a more relaxed pace of living — and a lot of people find peace and happiness by exploring that.
