Best Country For A Singleton's Move Overseas
Moving overseas is an excellent choice for singles. It can be a great opportunity to reinvent yourself. Learn a new language, embrace a new culture, and have unique new experiences you would never have happened if you hadn't taken the leap!
Here are our thoughts on the best countries for singletons to retire or start a new life overseas.
Italy
A focus on work-life balance in Italy makes this country an excellent choice for anyone looking to start a new life overseas. The cost of living is not that much cheaper than in the UK, but rental accommodation is affordable. And if you are looking for love, Italy has a high number of single people.
For single retirees, the Italian way of life that revolves around a multi-generational community will ensure you quickly get settled with a network of friends. And the UK is a short flight away if you want to pop back to visit family or they call on you.
Portugal
Ranked one of the best countries for expats and retirees, Portugal is blessed with fantastic weather, great beaches, security, healthcare, affordable real estate, and healthy, relaxed lifestyles. That, combined with Portugal’s welcoming people, makes this country one of the top overseas destinations for Singletons.
Most locals speak English. The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in the United Kingdom. Portugal is a safe place to live and an outdoor activities paradise, particularly for Golfers – one of the top golfing destinations in Europe. Flying back home is easy. There are plenty of daily international flights to all the major cities of Portugal.
France
France has a very high number of single households, so being a Singleton in France is no big deal. France has it all, world-renowned food and drink, art, history, culture and beautiful landscapes, whether in a city, in the hills and mountains or on the coast. Cities such as Paris are expensive, like any major city worldwide. However, property prices in France in smaller towns and villages deliver great value.
Learning the language is necessary to integrate well with your local community. Despite what you may have heard or read, the French are welcoming, especially in the smaller towns and villages. Healthcare in France is one of the best in the world, and transport links are the envy of many nations.
Spain
A firm favourite for tourists and expats alike, Spain has long been a top destination for singles starting a new life overseas. English is widely spoken. The cost of living is lower than in many European countries, including the United Kingdom. Spain has a high quality of life thanks to over 300 days of sunshine a year, good food and drink and stunning beaches. Spanish healthcare is ok, but many expats take out additional health insurance cover for peace of mind.
Spain offers a wide variety of landscapes for your enjoyment, from its Mediterranean coastline to sweeping hills, mountains, and volcanic islands. Spain provides many opportunities to make friends, and the fabulous weather encourages everyone to spend more time outdoors. The Spanish know how to party, with a multitude of community festivals held each year throughout the country.
Malta
Malta is a group of islands, of which three are inhabited. Malta’s temperatures are stabilised by the Mediterranean Sea, ensuring moderate winters and summers. Malta has a rich history, with ancient temples that pre-date Egypt’s pyramids, palaces, churches and citadels.
Malta has two official languages, English and Maltese, with most of the population speaking English. Despite its size, Malta has good infrastructure. Its healthcare is rated amongst the best in the world. This compact Island has a bit of everything, making it an excellent destination for Singletons.
Cyprus
Enjoying over 3000 hours of sunshine every year, Cyprus is a firm favourite of expats and tourists in the UK. Cyprus has strong links with the United Kingdom, and English is widely spoken. There are many expat communities dotted around the Island, so making friends won’t be an issue.
Properties are very affordable, making it a fantastic place for Singleton to buy. The pace of life in Cyprus is far more laid back. Cyprus is a peaceful society with a low cost of living and low crime rates. For retirees and those seeking employment, there are advantageous tax rates and plenty of job opportunities
Choosing a country
There are so many choices for anyone to start a new life overseas. Each destination has its pros and cons. You have to decide what is the right fit for you. And remember you can rent before buying to make sure you’ve made the right choice. For more help on moving overseas, contact the Overseas Property Forum Team.
Also, there are several innovative financing options, including equity release and overseas mortgages, if you don’t quite have enough money to buy your dream overseas property. Tell us about your overseas property dreams, and we’ll connect you with the right experts to help make your dream a reality.
