Expat Focus: Recent Episodes
Expat Focus: For Anyone Moving Or Living Abroad
Expat experiences, information and advice for anyone moving or living abroad. Visit Expat Focus at expatfocus.com for more.
British author Chris Ruffle joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about three decades of life in Asia — and the vineyard and Scottish castle he built in rural China. Chris left Yorkshire in the 1980s with a degree in Chinese and has since worked across China and Taiwan as an investor, winemaker and writer, most recently publishing the audiobook In a Strange Land. He explains how a frustrating search for a decent bottle of wine led him to plant a vineyard in Shandong, why the winery ended up looking like a granite castle in Aberdeen, and what it really takes to operate a business in rural China — including the handbag a safety inspector requested before signing off on the build.
Chris and Carlie talk about homesickness, the friendships that come and go with every move, the letters his mother quietly kept for decades, and what future historians will make of a generation that stopped writing them. If you're weighing up a move abroad, already living far from where you started, or just curious what three decades in Asia actually looks like, this episode is full of stories you won't have heard before.
#ExpatLife #LivingInChina #ChinaExpat #ExpatStories #MovingAbroad #Audiobook #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Welcome
00:30 Why Chris left the UK
03:13 How the vineyard dream began
05:01 Building a Scottish castle in China
07:14 Bribes, handbags and doing business
09:46 The audiobook: In a Strange Land
11:29 What exile teaches you about displacement
15:17 Where is home now?
17:22 Letters, emails and lost history
19:43 Voice actors and finding new perspectives
23:21 Chinese soil, grapes and wine
26:16 Where to find Chris
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/china/podcast/a-vineyard-a-castle-and-three-decades-in-asia-chris-ruffles-expat-story
📝 Show Notes
In a Strange Land – https://linktr.ee/InAStrangeLand
Treaty Port Vineyards – https://www.treatyport.com
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Toni Torres joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about the realities of moving to Málaga in 2026. Born and raised in the city, Toni has watched it transform into one of Spain's most popular expat destinations — and he sees both sides of that story every day, working with foreigners settling in while his local friends deal with rising rents and a tourism-first building boom. He explains what has changed over the past five to ten years, why the city draws so many people, how locals really feel about the influx of foreigners, and where he thinks the local government has fallen short.
Toni also gets practical: what newcomers need to know about a rental market now among the most expensive in Spain, why you should start your search three or four months ahead and lean on WhatsApp and Facebook groups, and how to avoid the "expat bubble trap" that catches so many arrivals. He unpacks why the language is the biggest obstacle most people face, what actually works for learning Spanish, and his honest take on making Malagueño friends as an adult. If you're considering a move to Málaga — or you're already there and stuck inside the bubble — this is a useful reality check from someone who bridges both worlds.
#ExpatLife #MovingToSpain #Málaga #LivingInSpain #SpainExpats #DigitalNomad #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Welcome to Málaga 2026
00:49 How Málaga has changed
02:12 Why everyone visits
04:27 Locals vs tourists
08:41 Housing and rent reality
10:31 Finding a place to live
13:07 The expat bubble trap
14:56 Making local friends
16:43 Learn Spanish faster
20:26 Tough love advice
21:47 Where to find Toni
22:53 Final thoughts
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/spain/podcast/moving-to-malaga-in-2026-what-you-need-to-know/
📝 Show Notes
Toni Torres – https://spanishtoni.com/
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Thinking about moving abroad with your pet — or worried about what it actually involves? In this episode of the Expat Focus Podcast, Carlie is joined by Giulia Gebhardt from WorldCare Pet Transport to break down what's changed in international pet relocation, and to bust some of the biggest myths along the way.
Giulia explains why rules shift so often from country to country, how rabies categorisation shapes nearly every requirement, and why some breeds — including a few surprising ones — are far trickier to move than others. She also tackles the fears many owners have about the cargo hold and Middle East transits, and shares practical, reassuring advice on crate training and getting your paperwork in order well ahead of time.
Whether you're relocating a Labrador, a Persian cat, or a French bulldog, this conversation will help you plan ahead and put your mind at ease.
#ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #LivingAbroad #PetRelocation #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Welcome Giulia Gebhardt
00:58 How Rules Keep Changing
03:00 Biosecurity and Rabies Explained
07:04 EU and CDC Entry Surprises
11:31 Easy vs High Risk Breeds
17:47 Cargo Hold Myth Busting
24:16 Middle East Transit Pet Lounges
30:23 Crate Training Tips
38:44 Paperwork and Planning Timeline
45:00 Where to Get Help and Resources
48:26 Final Wrap Up and Call to Action
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/the-truth-about-flying-your-pet-abroad-busting-common-pet-relocation-myths
📝 Show Notes
WorldCare Pet Transport - https://worldcarepet.com/door-to-door-pet-transportation-service/
WorldCare's ABCs of Pet Travel resource - https://worldcarepet.com/abcs-of-pet-travel/
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Co-Founder of My Expat Mind Anna Zhadan joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about expat mental health. After leaving Belarus at just nine years old and making many international moves since, Anna knows first-hand the psychological toll that living abroad can take. She channelled that experience into My Expat Mind, a directory built to help expats find therapists who understand what it's really like to start over in a foreign country.
In this conversation, she and Carlie unpack the emotional side of expat life — homesickness, loneliness, identity shifts, the FOMO of watching family and friends move on without you, and how moving so often shaped Anna's independence and her sense of home. The pair then dig into the practical side of looking after your mental well-being abroad: how to find a therapist who speaks your language and gets the expat experience, why therapy is for everyday good health and not just crisis moments, and how insurance and reimbursement can vary wildly from country to country. Anna explains how My Expat Mind works as a free directory for clients, and shares a simple packing tip for making any new place feel a little more like home. If you've ever struggled with the hidden emotional challenges of living abroad — or you're considering a move and want to look after your mental health along the way — this episode is for you.
#ExpatLife #ExpatMentalHealth #MovingAbroad #ExpatTherapy #LivingAbroad #Homesickness #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
00:55 Anna's First Big Move
02:37 Defining Home Abroad
05:08 Challenges of Frequent Moves
06:45 Friendships Across Borders
10:06 How My Expat Mind Began
12:06 Common Expat Mental Struggles
13:52 Finding the Right Therapist
16:03 Why Therapy Helps
20:39 Insurance and Reimbursement
21:59 Packing Tip for Feeling at Home
23:17 Where to Find My Expat Mind
23:56 Final Thoughts and Outro
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/looking-after-your-mental-health-while-living-abroad
📝 Show Notes
My Expat Mind – https://myexpatmind.com/
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Victoria Pearce, the writer behind A Life Away, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about moving abroad after 40. Victoria has lived in the UK twice — once as a young grad student, and again in her 40s with a husband and an 11-year-old in tow. Her story unpacks what it really looks like to uproot a settled life, swap a legal career for a writing one, and rebuild from scratch on the other side of the Atlantic.
Victoria is candid about the cons of relocating in your 40s — selling the house, losing the easy school-gate friendships, rebuilding a settled life from very little — and equally honest about the upsides, including the career confidence that makes a midlife move surprisingly workable. She also discusses the practical side: moving an 11-year-old into the UK secondary school system, navigating GCSEs as an American parent, pivoting from practising attorney to content writer, the strange double life of being an American abroad in a politically turbulent moment, citizenship plans, and the pull of ageing parents back home.
If you're weighing up a move abroad later in life, supporting a child through an international relocation, or rethinking your career as a trailing spouse, this conversation offers a grounded look at what to expect on the other side.
#ExpatLife #LivingInTheUK #MoveToTheUK #USToUK #ExpatOver40 #TrailingSpouse
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Introducing Victoria 00:34 Why Move Abroad After 40
01:05 Victoria's First UK Move
02:35 Returning Abroad Post Covid
05:09 Cons of Moving in Your 40s
07:45 Confidence and Career
09:21 Decluttering and Moving Logistics
11:48 Moving an 11 Year Old
14:33 Navigating UK School Culture
18:24 Trailing Spouse Career Pivot
21:44 Politics, Identity and Home
27:02 Citizenship and Belonging
28:02 What to Change and What to Love
32:06 Wrap Up
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/united-kingdom/podcast/an-american-in-the-uk-the-honest-truth-about-moving-abroad-in-your-40s
📝 Show Notes
A Life Away – https://alifeaway.com/
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Yolanda Reshemah, host of The Places We Call Home Podcast, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about building authentic community when you move abroad. Yolanda's expat journey began at just 10 years old when she moved from the Caribbean to the UK, and she's since lived in France and the USA. She shares how each move shaped her identity — from discovering Parisian culture to navigating reverse culture shock — and why feeling at home starts with knowing yourself.
Carlie and Yolanda dig into why shared expat status isn't enough to build lasting friendships, and how Yolanda sought deeper connections through volunteering, classes at Berkeley, and being intentional about what she needs. They also swap stories about cultural quirks in the US, from California's yoga-outfit uniform to the phenomenon of "flaking," and discuss what it really means to thrive rather than just settle in a new country.
#ExpatLife #ExpatCommunity #MovingAbroad #LivingInUSA #BuildingCommunity
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Yolanda's Expat Journey
01:25 Caribbean to UK at 10
02:42 Finding Parisian Community
04:13 Reverse Culture Shock
04:41 Tourist to Local Mindset
05:43 How Early Moves Shape You
08:09 Lessons on Slowing Down
09:41 Starting Her Podcast
12:23 A Process for Belonging
13:47 What Feeds and Anchors You
18:39 Building Lasting Friendships
22:15 Beyond Expat Friend Groups
24:48 US Culture Quirks
29:32 Where Home Is Next
31:19 Find Yolanda Online
32:36 Final Thoughts
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/the-secret-to-expat-happiness-building-friendships-abroad
📝 Show Notes
The Places We Call Home Podcast – https://theplaceswecallhome.com/
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Relocation and lifestyle consultant Laura Poggioli joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about what it really takes to settle into life abroad. Laura is the founder of La Relocation Group, which operates across Switzerland, Spain, South Africa, and soon Dubai. After relocating more than 108 people around the world in her previous corporate role, she recognised that traditional relocation support was missing something crucial — ongoing lifestyle assistance that goes far beyond the typical checklist of finding a house and a school.
From navigating building rules and recycling systems to finding a dog sitter, language classes, or a French-speaking ballet companion, Laura explains how her team helps expats handle the everyday things that can become overwhelming in an unfamiliar environment. Carlie and Laura swap stories about the unwritten rules of apartment living in Europe, the culture shock of adjusting to narrow Swiss mountain roads, and Laura's philosophy of "expat aptitude" — an open mindset that lets you accept a new culture without judging it, while also knowing it's okay to admit a country isn't the right fit and make a Plan B.
If you're preparing for a move abroad or already living in a new country and feeling the strain of adjusting, this episode is full of practical perspective on how to find your comfort zone again — and why the small things matter more than you think.
#ExpatLife #Relocation #LivingAbroad #ExpatMindset #CultureShock #MovingAbroad
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Welcome
01:02 Why Laura Started La Relocation
02:14 Beyond the Checklist Support
05:53 Community and Expat Mindset
08:03 Building Lifestyle Services
13:14 House Rules and Recycling Culture
18:18 Integration and Family Pressure
19:40 Solving Problems and Bureaucracy
22:51 Emotional Support and Referrals
27:25 Keys to Living Well Abroad
30:32 Where to Find La Relocation
31:34 Wrap Up
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/how-to-really-feel-at-home-in-a-new-country-tips-from-a-lifestyle-consultant
📝 Show Notes
La Relocation Group website –http://larelocationgroup.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=expat-focus
La Relocation Group Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/larelocationgroup
La Relocation Group Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576952125116
La Relocation Group LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/larelocation/
Laura Poggioli LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapoggiolimaraniello/
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Susana Yang, founder and CEO of The Golden Portugal, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about moving to and retiring in Portugal. Originally from Hong Kong, Susana moved to Portugal in 2018 and founded her immigration agency after a frustrating experience with local legal services. She breaks down the three main visa routes — the D7 passive income visa for retirees, the D8 digital nomad visa and the D2 entrepreneurial visa — and explains the income and savings requirements, realistic cost of living, rental market challenges, healthcare access, and why buying property might be a simpler route for some.
Susana also dives into Portugal's Golden Visa programme, the step-by-step visa application timeline, and a looming citizenship law change that could double the residency requirement from five to 10 years. Her advice for anyone already in Portugal: apply for citizenship now, even if you haven't hit the five-year mark, because processing times mean the current rules may still apply to your case. If you're considering Portugal for retirement, remote work or simply a better quality of life, this episode is packed with practical guidance on what to expect.
#ExpatLife #MoveToPortugal #PortugalExpats #RetireInPortugal #D7Visa #GoldenVisa
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Portugal Retirement Boom
00:45 Founding The Golden Portugal
02:37 Service Culture Shock
03:38 Why Move to Portugal
04:23 Who Uses Which Visas
04:59 D7 D8 D2 Explained
06:17 D7 Income Requirements
07:39 Realistic Living Costs
09:44 Rent Pressures and Co-Living
11:12 Healthcare for Residents
12:43 Visa Steps and Timelines
15:03 DIY vs Using an Agency
17:13 D7 Permit Timeline
18:27 Citizenship Rule Changes
20:23 Apply Now Strategy
21:58 Renting Reality Check
23:26 Finding Rentals and Fees
25:44 Buying Property Instead
26:57 D7 Stay Requirements
29:37 Golden Visa Explained
31:53 Why Portugal and Wrap Up
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/portugal/podcast/moving-to-portugal-visas-costs-and-a-citizenship-deadline-you-need-to-know
📝 Show Notes
The Golden Portugal – https://www.thegoldenportugal.com/
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Tom Zachystal, Founder of International Asset Management, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about how US citizens can manage their money when moving abroad. With 25 years of experience advising American expats, Tom breaks down the difference between physically moving money into non-US accounts and simply diversifying out of the US dollar. He covers the challenges of opening overseas investment accounts due to FATCA reporting, why US-based accounts often offer better protections and lower fees, and how currency fluctuations can act like hidden inflation on your retirement spending.
The conversation also digs into real estate tax implications, gold and precious metals, ADRs and international ETFs, private equity and interval funds, and the 4% retirement withdrawal rule. Tom shares practical advice on using local banking products to manage currency risk and warns about the pitfalls of collectibles taxation. If you're a US citizen planning a move abroad and wondering what to do with your investments, this episode will help you understand your options — and why sometimes the smartest move is no move at all.
#ExpatLife #USExpats #ExpatFinance #MoneyAbroad #InvestingAbroad
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Moving Money Abroad
01:40 Currency Risk Explained
03:10 What Getting Money Out Means
04:54 Keep Investments in US
07:11 FBAR and FATCA Basics
08:42 Real Estate and Taxes
11:43 Diversifying Beyond Dollars
14:25 Gold Crypto Collectibles
18:44 Local Bank Products
20:11 Retirement Withdrawal Rules
21:20 Private Equity Warnings
24:48 Why US Accounts Can Win
27:02 Where to Find Tom
27:37 Podcast Wrap Up
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/us-expats-how-to-get-your-money-out-of-the-usa-and-why-you-may-not-want-to
📝 Show Notes
IAM Advisors – https://services.expatfocus.com/us-citizens-financial-advice
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American military nurse Lisa Denmark joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about retiring in Chiang Mai, Thailand — and why she has never looked back. After eight years working for the US military in Germany, Lisa faced a visa deadline that forced a decision: return to the States, or start over somewhere new. She chose Thailand, moved sight unseen, and hasn't left since. Lisa shares how she landed on Chiang Mai, what it was really like to arrive during COVID lockdown, and why the city's calm, small-town feel won her over completely.
Lisa breaks down the real cost of living — from a three-bedroom house in a gated community for 310 euros a month to a full Thai meal delivered for under a euro — and walks through the visa journey from visa-exempt to education visa to retirement visa. She also gets into the wilder side of expat life: finding rentals through word-of-mouth (and one very memorable connection), the challenges of bringing a 40kg service dog to a country that doesn't recognise service animals, several scooter wrecks, and major surgery covered entirely by her Thai health insurance. If you're considering retiring abroad on a fixed income, this episode is packed with practical insight, honest numbers, and a lot of heart.
#ExpatLife #RetireAbroad #LivingInThailand #ChiangMai #ThailandExpats #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Introducing Lisa Denmark
05:29 Arriving in Chiang Mai During Lockdown
06:40 COVID Logistics and Quarantine
07:53 Chiang Mai Cost of Living Breakdown
11:44 Retirement Visa
16:26 Finding Rentals by Word of Mouth
19:04 Bringing a Service Dog to Thailand
21:56 Chiang Mai Expat Scene Today
23:00 Healthcare Insurance and Pharmacies
26:20 Travel Insurance Reality
28:45 Medical Culture Differences
32:41 Scooter Wreck Stories
34:57 Living Without Thai
37:20 Retirement Daily Routine
41:27 Finding Community in Chiang Mai
46:01 Future Plans
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/thailand/podcast/could-you-retire-in-thailand-for-less-than-400-a-month
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Travis Drews, founder of the Global Citizen Hub, joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss an often-overlooked route to moving abroad: student visas. Originally from the US and now based in Berlin, he shares how his own international journey — and a surprising message from family — led him to help others find realistic migration pathways, even without a job offer, investment capital, or a partner overseas. He explains why student visas are among the most accessible relocation options, challenging misconceptions about age limits, work restrictions, and cost.
Travis highlights the wide range of scholarships across Europe, including programs with free or low-cost tuition, and outlines where students can work part-time while studying. He also clarifies which student visas count toward permanent residency and which serve as stepping stones, stressing the need to plan long term from the outset. For those considering a career change or seeking a foothold in Europe, the episode offers practical guidance on selecting programs, meeting language requirements, and using education as a pathway to a new life abroad.
#expatlifestyle #StudentVisa #MoveToEurope #StudyAbroad #EuropeExpats #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Meet Travis Drews: An American in Berlin
03:01 Introducing Global Citizen Hub
05:31 Student Visas: A Pathway to Moving Abroad
09:49 Challenges and Realities of Student Visas
15:36 Scholarships and Affordable Education in Europe
24:05 Finding the Right Study Program
28:01 Conclusion and Contact Information
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast/how-to-move-to-europe-on-a-student-visa-no-job-required
📝 Show Notes
Global Citizen Hub – https://www.theglobalcitizenhub.com
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Australian expat consultant Simone Collins joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about turning a Bali "gap year" into a life-changing two-year relocation — and helping others do the same. Founder of Our Year in Bali, Simone shares how a family experiment became a full-scale move, what daily life in Bali really looks like, and why so many people dream of making the island home.
She explains who Bali is best suited for — from families with young children to digital nomads and retirees — and breaks down practical considerations like schooling, visas, healthcare, housing, and cost of living. Simone also discusses the realities of leasehold property, transport challenges, accessibility for older expats, and how Bali's hospitality-driven culture shapes expat life on the island.
If you're considering moving to Bali — whether for a sabbatical, remote work, or retirement — this episode offers honest insights, real-world budgeting advice, and expert guidance to help you decide if Bali is the right fit.
#ExpatLife #LivingInBali #MoveToBali #BaliExpats #DigitalNomads #RetireAbroad #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Simone Collins' Journey to Bali
01:15 Starting 'Our Year in Bali' Consultancy
03:12 Challenges and Decisions in Bali
05:55 Ideal Demographics for Moving to Bali
08:24 Visa Options for Long-Term Stay
12:31 Housing and Real Estate in Bali
16:20 Popular Areas for Long-Term Expats
20:52 Accessibility and Transport Considerations
22:36 Health Insurance Essentials for Expats
26:05 Navigating Language Barriers
27:17 Education Options for Expats' Children
30:56 Community and Cultural Integration
33:57 Cost of Living and Budgeting in Bali
37:58 How to Plan Your Move to Bali
40:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/indonesia/podcast/could-you-live-in-bali-heres-what-its-really-like
📝 Show Notes Our Year in Bali – https://ouryearinbali.com/
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Financial advisor Tom Zachystal joins the Expat Focus Podcast to break down what Americans need to think about financially before moving abroad. As President of International Asset Management — and an expat himself — Tom shares practical guidance based on decades of experience helping US citizens navigate life overseas.
Tom explains why Americans can never fully "leave" the US tax system, how citizenship-based taxation, FATCA, and FBAR reporting affect expats, and why many banks now hesitate to work with Americans living abroad. He also explores common banking challenges, transferring money internationally, and misconceptions around cash limits when crossing borders.
If you're an American planning an international move — whether for work, retirement, or lifestyle — this episode offers clear, experience-backed advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and plan with confidence.
#ExpatLife #AmericanExpats #MovingAbroad #USExpats #ExpatFinance #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:49 Tom's Background and Expertise
02:18 Financial Steps for Americans Moving Abroad
03:09 Banking Challenges for US Expats
13:33 Understanding FATCA and FBAR
16:35 Health Insurance Considerations
23:09 Currency Fluctuations and Financial Planning
25:31 Emergency Liquidity and Financial Planning Apps
28:41 The Role of Financial Advisors
33:24 Conclusion and Contact Information
🎥 Video & Transcript
https://www.expatfocus.com/podcast/financial-planning-essentials-for-americans-living-overseas
📝 Show Notes
IAM Advisors – https://iamadvisors.com/
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What does moving to Spain really look like for non-EU nationals? And how can you tell if it's the right move for you? In this episode of the Expat Focus Podcast, James Blick, founder of Spain Revealed, joins host Carlie Bonavia to share what life in Spain is actually like — beyond the beaches and tapas.
James explains why your vision for life in Spain matters more than the visa paperwork at the start, and how getting clear on your desired rhythm — your day-to-day pace and priorities — can make or break your relocation. He discusses lifestyle differences across regions, common misconceptions about Spanish life, popular visa options (including updates to the Digital Nomad Visa), and practical tips on choosing where to live, budgeting, and building community.
Whether you're planning to retire early, work remotely, or simply embrace a slower lifestyle, this episode offers the clarity you need to move to Spain with confidence.
#MoveToSpain #LivingInSpain #SpainRevealed #DigitalNomadVisa #ExpatLife #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Guest Introduction: James Blick
01:09 James' Journey to Spain
02:24 Founding Spain Revealed and Devour Tours
03:21 The Impact of the Pandemic and Pivot to Relocation
04:31 Top Nationalities Moving to Spain
06:12 Misunderstandings About Life in Spain
10:08 Choosing the Right Location in Spain
16:00 Key Considerations for Moving to Spain
19:57 Digital Nomad Visa Updates
27:21 Navigating Spanish Bureaucracy
27:45 Healthcare Requirements for Non-Lucrative Visa
29:23 Common Pitfalls in Moving to Spain
32:12 Cultural Adjustments and Expectations
36:46 Finding Your Rhythm in Spain
41:56 Building Community and Seeking Advice
45:12 The Importance of Learning Spanish
48:30 Resources for Moving to Spain
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/spain/podcast/what-is-life-in-spain-really-like-for-expats
📝 Show Notes
Spain Revealed – https://social.spainrevealed.com/i_IP
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Data-driven relocation consultant Vasily Yurenkov joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss how numbers — not just gut instinct — can guide your move abroad. When political turmoil forced him to leave Russia, Vasily and his wife used his analytical model to decide where to rebuild their lives. Now based in Amsterdam, he helps others choose their ideal destination by comparing 600+ data points across countries and cities.
In this episode, Vasily explains why most expats make relocation decisions emotionally rather than logically, what happens when data contradicts "dream destinations," and how personal values and cultural fit factor into his analysis. He also shares why some clients end up staying put after all, and how to avoid falling into an "abusive relationship" with your new country.
If you're planning an international move — or questioning if your adopted country is truly right for you — this conversation offers a fascinating, evidence-based perspective on finding your best fit abroad.
#ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #Relocation #ExpatFocus #DigitalNomads #LivingOverseas
👉 Visit Expat Focus: https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:42 Vasily's Relocation Journey
02:26 Choosing Between the UK and Amsterdam
03:47 Challenges with UK Visa and Final Decision
07:18 The Five-Month Road Trip
08:51 Importance of Data in Relocation Decisions
18:26 Client Profiles and Data-Driven Approach
20:08 Common Misconceptions About Moving to Italy
20:24 Surprising Results from Data-Driven Analysis
21:12 Practical Tips for Testing Your Top Destinations
21:56 Deciding Not to Move After All
24:06 The Role of Personal Values in Choosing a Country
32:15 The Importance of a Fresh Perspective
35:44 The Limitations and Pitfalls of Data
38:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/international/podcast/how-to-choose-the-best-country-for-your-move-abroad
📝 Show Notes Greener Relocation – https://greener.im
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Relocation concierge Ashley Sourci joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about moving to France — and tackling the country’s infamous bureaucracy. Originally from California, Ashley shares how she fell in love with French life, the challenges she faced setting up on her own, and why she now helps others navigate the endless paperwork and catch-22s of settling in.
She explains what a relocation concierge does, the difference between standard relocation services and her high-touch “handholding” approach, and why even locals struggle with French administration.
Ashley also breaks down typical costs, the realities of official translations, and how to avoid common pitfalls like stalled bank accounts and driver’s license delays.
If you’re considering a move to France — or already drowning in French paperwork — this episode offers practical insights, real-life experiences, and advice to make your transition smoother.
#ExpatLife #LivingInFrance #MoveToFrance #FrenchBureaucracy #FranceExpats #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:56 Ashley's Journey to France
04:40 Challenges of Relocating to France
07:24 Role of a Relocation Concierge
14:52 Pricing and Client Involvement
19:56 Documentation and Language Barriers
25:29 Finding the Right Relocation Service
27:48 Ashley's Personal Reflections and Contact Information
30:33 Final Thoughts
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/france/podcast/untangling-french-bureaucracy-how-a-relocation-concierge-can-help
📝 Show Notes
Ashley’s Website – https://chezmoialsace.com
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American blogger Kirsten Raccuia returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to share her experiences with healthcare in Mexico. After relocating from Malaysia with her husband, Kirsten has navigated everything from pharmacy visits to surgery — and she opens up about the realities of medical care as a foreign resident.
She explains why Mexico is a hub for medical tourism, how costs compare with the USA, and what expats should know about insurance and out-of-pocket expenses. Kirsten also highlights cultural differences in patient care, the role of word-of-mouth in finding trusted doctors, and the surprising accessibility of treatments.
If you’re considering a move to Mexico — or curious about how healthcare abroad stacks up — this episode offers candid insights and practical advice.
#ExpatLife #HealthcareMexico #LivingInMexico #MedicalTourism #MexicoExpats #ExpatFocus
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/mexico/podcast/why-expats-trust-mexico-for-affordable-modern-healthcare
📝 Show Notes Kirsten’s Blog – https://sandinmycurls.com
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Jordan Giberson joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share her journey from Austin, Texas to London, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From turning down a safe job offer at home to pursuing her dream of living in the UK, Jordan talks about navigating visas, surviving lockdown as a new arrival, and adapting to British culture.
She opens up about the challenges of residency rules, what Americans should know about healthcare in the UK, and how her perspective has shifted after nearly six years abroad. Jordan also reflects on cultural quirks, why she feels more at home in London now, and what she loves most about her expat life.
If you’re an American considering a move to the UK — or simply curious about life on the other side of the pond — this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
#ExpatLife #MovingToTheUK #AmericansAbroad #BritishCulture #UKVisas #HealthcareUK
👉 Visit Expat Focus at https://www.expatfocus.com
00:00 Introduction
00:30 Jordan's Journey to the UK
03:38 Settling in During the Pandemic
07:16 Visa Challenges and Advice
14:28 Cultural Differences and Adaptation
20:15 Returning to Texas During COVID
21:31 Healthcare Differences: USA vs UK
24:33 Visa and Residency in the UK
28:44 Considering Other European Countries
31:36 Adapting to British Culture
36:24 Benefits of Living Abroad
38:14 Where to Find More Information
🎥 Video/Transcript – https://www.expatfocus.com/italy/podcast/living-in-london-how-one-american-made-it-work
📝 Show Notes Jordan’s Website - https://jordangiberson.com
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Barbara Boyle joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss her move from a high-flying advertising career in the US to a tranquil life in Monforte d’Alba, a small town in Italy’s Piedmont region. Barbara shares what it was like to renovate a 300-year-old stone barn with zero Italian, embrace the local slow food culture, and become part of a tight-knit rural community.
She also opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis and why she returned to the US for treatment, and reflects on the joys and challenges of expat life. Her new memoir, 'Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse', captures the essence of her Italian adventure. If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to Italy, this one’s for you.
📘 Order Barbara’s memoir: https://www.barbaraboyleauthor.com/
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring expat stories
🌍 Explore more at https://www.expatfocus.com
#ExpatLife #Italy #SlowLiving #PinchMe #FarmhouseRenovation #MovingToItaly
00:00 Introducing Barbara Boyle
00:51 Barbara's Writing Journey
03:26 Barbara's Advertising Career
06:25 Falling in Love with Montfort
09:06 The Slow Food Movement
11:39 Renovating the Barn
14:26 Challenges and Community Support
17:35 Learning Italian and Cultural Integration
20:56 Adjusting to a Slower Pace of Life
21:17 Nostalgia and Simplicity of Life in Silicon Valley
21:53 Adjusting to a Slower Pace in Italy
22:26 Balancing Busyness and Retirement
23:38 Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
28:52 Comparing Healthcare Systems: Italy vs. USA
32:07 Building Community and Friendships in Italy
34:42 Joining Local Activities and Clubs
38:54 Advice for Aspiring Expats
40:41 The Perfect Italian Dish
41:36 Final Thoughts
Sigga Hansen joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share honest insights about learning Danish as an expat. As founder of Lingua Danica and one of Denmark's most experienced Danish teachers, she reveals why Danish is trickier than expected - and why it's essential for truly experiencing Danish life. Key Insights:
- Why Germans learn Danish faster than Swedes (surprising but true!)
- The pronunciation challenges that trip up most learners
- Why Copenhageners immediately switch to English
- The "hidden Denmark" you'll miss if you only speak English
- Real language learning strategies that work beyond apps
Sigga brings unique perspective from teaching thousands of international students and living abroad herself. Whether you're moving to Denmark for work or love, this episode helps set realistic expectations while finding motivation to push through the challenging early stages.
#LearnDanish #Denmark #ExpatLife #LanguageLearning #DanishLanguage #MovingToDenmark
00:00 Introduction
00:39 Meet Sigga Hansen: Danish Language Teacher
00:54 Sigga's Journey to Teaching Danish
02:40 Challenges and Rewards of Learning Danish
03:34 Typical Students and Their Motivations
04:18 The Role of English in Denmark
05:29 Language Similarities and Learning Advantages
07:04 High-Profile Danish Speakers
09:38 Danish Pronunciation and Patience
12:00 Teaching Danish: Joys and Methods
14:31 The Importance of Learning Danish in Denmark
17:18 Staying Motivated and Measuring Progress
18:26 Where to Find Sigga Hansen
18:59 Conclusion and Additional Resources
Find Sigga Hansen on Instagram: @LinguaDanica
More Denmark episodes:
🎧 Expat Careers In Denmark
🎧 How The Danish Healthcare System Works
Subscribe for more expat insights!
📧 Newsletter: expatfocus.com/newsletter
Ever wondered what it's like to be pregnant in a foreign country? In this episode, Carlie chats with Sarah, an American living near Paris who recently welcomed her baby daughter Laura into the world.
Sarah takes us through her entire French pregnancy journey - from those first nervous blood tests to her unexpected emergency C-section. She shares the real differences between French and American maternity care, including the shocking perks (priority cards that let you skip lines!), excellent healthcare coverage, and those amazing 16 weeks of paid maternity leave.
You'll hear about the French approach to prenatal appointments, midwife care, and what really happens in French hospitals (spoiler: they actually encouraged her to eat a burger before delivery!).
Whether you're planning a move abroad, expecting a baby, or just curious about healthcare differences around the world, Sarah's story offers both practical advice and emotional insights into one of life's biggest adventures... in a foreign language!
#expatlife #moveabroad #france
00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback
00:20 Meet Sarah: An American in Paris
01:38 Sarah's Journey to France
04:06 Discovering Pregnancy in France
07:33 Navigating Prenatal Care
11:54 Childbirth Classes and Preparation
15:49 Hospital Choices and Birth Plans
18:57 Sarah's Birth Experience
29:04 Quick Birth Experience
30:59 Hospital Stay and Recovery
32:46 Newborn Care and Challenges
34:26 Support from Nursing Staff
38:04 Navigating French Healthcare
42:56 Unique Aspects of French Pregnancy
52:11 Maternity Leave and Benefits
54:26 Final Thoughts and Resources
Sarah's blog - https://abuckeyeinparis.com
Sarah's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/abuckeyeinparis
David Andrews, Director of Visa Visa Limited, returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to explain New Zealand's new approach to digital nomads. In this episode, we uncover the truth behind what's been called a "digital nomad visa" (but isn't actually a new visa at all!), exploring how visitors can now legally work remotely while enjoying everything New Zealand has to offer.
David shares valuable insights about:
- How the visitor visa rules have changed to accommodate digital nomads
- Tax implications for remote workers from countries with tax treaties
- The current job market and in-demand skills in New Zealand
- Investment visa changes making NZ more attractive for high-net-worth individuals
- An increase in American professionals (especially doctors) looking to relocate
- Practical advice on qualification transfers and finding employment
- The best locations for digital nomads, from Auckland to Christchurch
- Internet connectivity solutions for remote workers
Whether you're considering a short working holiday or testing the waters for a permanent move, this episode provides essential information for anyone interested in experiencing life in New Zealand while maintaining their remote career.
#expatlife #digitalnomad #newzealand #moveabroad
00:00 Introduction and Exciting News for Digital Nomads
01:17 Understanding New Zealand's Digital Nomad Visa
01:59 Visa Conditions and Practical Implications
03:57 Extended Stays and Tax Implications
11:18 Job Market and Employment Opportunities
12:42 Investment and Residency Options
19:09 Practical Tips for Digital Nomads in New Zealand
23:03 Conclusion and Contact Information
Devra Jacobs joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss how to achieve a "happy move" when relocating. Drawing from her experience of 29 moves, including living abroad in Korea, Devra shares practical tips on making the moving process as stress-free as possible. She discusses the importance of pre-move preparation, including what to keep and what to leave behind, how to pack efficiently, and how to handle pets and children during transitions.
As the co-author of "A Happy Move," Devra provides insights on working with professional movers vs. DIY moves, the best times to relocate, and crucial post-move considerations that people often overlook. She shares valuable lessons learned from her extensive moving experience, including how to avoid common pitfalls like moving during peak seasons or holidays, and practical advice on documenting your belongings for insurance purposes. Whether you're moving across the country or internationally, this episode offers essential guidance on making your next move a successful one. Learn more about Devra's book at ahappymove.com.
#ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #Relocation #ExpatTips #MovingTips #ExpatPodcast #InternationalMove
00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request
00:35 Guest Introduction: Devra Jacobs
01:26 Devra's Moving Experiences
03:14 Achieving a Happy Move
05:35 Practical Moving Tips
10:36 Packing and Professional Movers
19:57 Managing Pets and Kids During a Move
25:01 Timing Your Move
31:35 Post-Move Considerations
34:41 Conclusion and Contact Information
Nathalie Goldstein, CEO of MyExpatTaxes, joins the Expat Focus Podcast for an essential conversation about U.S. tax obligations for Americans living abroad. As an expat herself living in Austria for the past decade, Nathalie shares her personal journey and explains why she created a platform specifically designed to help U.S. citizens navigate their complex tax filing requirements from overseas.
From understanding basic obligations and deadlines to avoiding double taxation, dealing with FATCA and FBAR requirements, and managing digital nomad tax implications, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about U.S. expat taxes. Nathalie offers valuable insights on choosing the right tax filing platform, explains common pitfalls to avoid, and shares tips for making the process as stress-free as possible. Whether you're a long-term expat or planning to move abroad, this conversation will help you understand and manage your U.S. tax obligations with confidence.
#expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad
00:00 Introduction and Call for Feedback
00:23 Understanding U.S. Tax Obligations for Expats
00:45 Meet Natalie Goldstein from MyExpatTaxes
01:36 Natalie's Journey from California to Austria
04:45 Filing U.S. Taxes as an Expat
08:03 Avoiding Double Taxation
13:44 Tax Filing Tips and Deadlines
17:39 Choosing the Right Tax Filing Platform
19:02 Challenges of Filing Taxes as an Expat
19:38 The Birth of MyExpatTaxes
19:55 Tailored Tax Solutions for Expats
20:41 Complex Tax Situations and Solutions
22:59 Digital Nomads and Tax Benefits
26:27 Understanding FATCA and FBAR
34:13 Penalties and Compliance
36:24 How to Get Help with Your Expat Taxes
37:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Life coach Bianca Tate joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share insights on how clarity, confidence, and courage are crucial for a successful move abroad.
Bianca, with her extensive personal and professional experience as an expat in multiple countries, delves into common challenges like cultural shocks, the importance of community, and the steps to prepare emotionally and practically for an international move.
She also provides practical advice for mid-career professionals considering relocation and emphasizes the value of having a clear purpose and holistic plan.
#expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad
00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request
00:24 Meet Bianca Tate: Life Coach and Expat
01:07 Bianca's International Journey
01:56 Overcoming Culture Shock in Germany
05:26 The Role of a Life Coach in Moving Abroad
11:42 Choosing the Right Country for Your Move
17:14 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving Abroad
25:44 Building a Community in a New Country
34:37 Final Advice for Aspiring Expats
36:25 Conclusion and Contact Information
Attorney Mena Maimone joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about the various pathways for moving to the United States in 2025. She explains common visas, such as the E2 investor visa, EB2 National Interest Waiver, and EB3 employment-based visa, detailing the requirements and processes for each.
Mena shares her personal motivation for moving to the U.S., the key motivators for immigrants today, and the challenges applicants might face. The conversation also explores the potential impact of the upcoming presidential administration on immigration policies and provides insights on how to successfully navigate the U.S. visa application process.
The episode concludes with practical advice for prospective applicants, including the importance of disclosing all information and the benefits of hiring a knowledgeable attorney.
00:00 Introducing Mena Maimone
00:27 Motivations for Moving to the USA
02:00 Common Pathways to Move to America
04:01 Investor Visa Details
05:27 Employment-Based Visas
07:12 Challenges in the Visa Application Process
08:03 Legal Support and Fees 16:26 Future of US Immigration Policies
19:50 Conclusion and Contact Information
Moving has been a top priority for some Americans since the US presidential election, leading to a surge in inquiries to immigration consultants, Canada Abroad. Deanne Acres joins the Expat Focus Podcast to explain exactly what US citizens need to know if they're set on relocating to Canada.
For a free immigration assessment, visit: https://canadaabroad.com/assessment/
For job outlooks in Canada, visit: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/trend-analysis/search-job-outlooks
00:00 Why Americans Choose Canada
01:57 Immigration Requirements and Processes
04:46 Work and Study Permits
12:25 Retirement and Investment Options
21:37 Cost of Living and Cultural Considerations
22:45 Path to Citizenship
23:22 Getting Started with Your Move
25:00 Closing Thoughts
Jake Barber, Founder and Advisor at SJB Global, is back in this episode to talk through the recent UK Budget announcements, and what they mean for UK expats. You can stay up to date with expert analysis like this by signing up to our monthly newsletter - just head to expatfocus.com/newsletter.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:32 Overview of UK Budget Changes
01:16 Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax
04:02 Stamp Duty and Inheritance Tax
07:40 Impact on Pensions and QROPS
12:06 Non-Domicile Rules and Tax Planning
16:06 Economic Climate and Growth Projections
18:34 Global Comparisons and Investment Strategies
21:54 Popular Expat Destinations
25:34 Final Thoughts and Advice
35:28 Conclusion and Contact Information
Is Panama a tax haven for expat property investors? What sort of rental return should I expect? Can I list on Airbnb there, and do I need to worry about hurricanes? On the show to answer these questions and more, is Melissa Darnay, the CEO of Choose Panama.
Originally from California, Melissa spent 15 years in Texas before tragedy struck, and she went on to start a whole new life in Central America. We dive into how Melissa became a real estate and rental agency entrepreneur, what makes Panama appealing for investment today, some location hidden gems, and if you’re looking to buy property in Panama, how to make sure you don’t fall for any scams.
00:00 Guest Introduction: Melissa Darnay
01:10 Melissa's Journey to Panama
05:30 Why Panama?
08:09 Real Estate in Panama
14:43 Panama's Tax System
19:47 Popular Locations for Expats
23:44 Weather and Natural Disasters
33:51 Investment Tips and Red Flags
38:04 Conclusion and Contact Information
Did you know, the USA is probably the most lucrative market for work as a travel nurse? And that while you can take travel nursing abroad, the role doesn’t actually exist in all countries?
Kylee Nelson is a nurse who is encouraging others in her profession to take a break from the bedside to help prevent burnout, and get out and see the world. Kylee’s worked as a travel nurse for seven years, including in Saudi Arabia and all over the USA.
Nothing is off limits with Kylee in this episode - we talk money - how much you can earn as a travel nurse versus being on staff, how to work with recruiters, or not, how you’ll be welcomed by colleagues when you start your latest assignment, or not, and what countries you should look at if you are interested in travel nursing abroad.
Ruairi Spillane joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss what it takes to immigrate to Canada in 2024. Ruairi moved there from Ireland back in 2008, initially working in finance. He was motivated to start his own business in Canada after seeing so many expat friends struggle to navigate the system, and get access to the essential information they needed to be able to settle and thrive in the country.
Ruari launched the website moving2canada.com, and in the years since, he has collected a swag of titles, including being named Best Immigrant Entrepreneur. Listen to find out what makes Canada attractive to foreigners right now, some current job opportunities, the typical visa application timeline, and some hurdles you can expect to face along the way.
Have you ever visited a city or a country and just known deep down that it's where you were meant to be? This is what Steph Zakas experienced on her first visit from the USA to Iceland, and it's the reason why she's living in the country today.
Steph Zakas is a true slashie - she’s a coach, advisor, consultant, and photographer. In this chat, you’ll find out how she made Iceland her home, what it’s like to live in a country of such extreme contrasts (so much darkness in winter and a sun that never sets in the summer), and how Steph thinks that contributes to such a creative society. You’ll also learn that if you do come to Iceland, you shouldn’t treat the place like Disneyland.
So, you’ve fallen in love with the beautiful country of New Zealand. How can you go about moving there to live and work? What sectors are especially interested in employing foreigners, and what’s the visa application process like?
David Andrews joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk through your various visa options, application requirements and the costs involved. David’s the founder and director of Visa Visa Immigration Services and Hire Minds Recruitment. He’s also an expat in New Zealand himself, so he knows exactly what it’s like to pack up your life and move to a new country.
We’re all about providing practical tips and advice on this show, and in this episode I’m joined by Jake Barber, Founder and Advisor at SJB Global, who is going to talk through transfer options for expats with UK defined contribution pensions.
Jake is based in Spain, and he’s worked with British expats - in fact anyone with a work history in the UK - for a decade. We’ll dive into how Brexit affected pensions, your options for transferring a UK defined contribution pension so you can access it abroad, and specific rules and transfer fees that you should be aware of.
Now for the usual caveat - Jake is providing only general information in this episode. If you want advice more specific to your situation, you should get in touch with him, or another professional advisor.
Today’s guest, Jess Drucker, has made a career out of helping LGBTQ+ people and their families move abroad. In fact, she’s created the world’s first and only, global relocation resource for this expat community, called Rainbow Relocation.
Jess is a seasoned expat herself, and we chat about some of the additional practical elements that come into play when you’re queer and moving to a new country.
From choosing places that are safe, where marriage and children will be legally recognized, where you’ll be able to thrive in your career, and find your community.
If you’re lucky enough to have a job that you can do from anywhere, you’re now pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to the number of countries offering digital nomad or equivalent visas. UN Tourism reports that almost half of all global destinations now offer visas for at least a year. Spain is in the spotlight in this episode, as I chat to American nutrition strategist Aimee Gallo, who moved with her husband and young son to the Catalonia region.
You’ll find out why Aimee and her family chose Spain, the telework or digital nomad visa application process, timeline to approval, what their remote working life is like, and why, if you follow in Aimee’s footsteps, you should get comfortable in the uncomfortable. Now, one point we didn’t cover in this interview is what the minimum income requirement is for Spain’s digital nomad visa. Tune in until the end to find out.
Did you know that if you move abroad with children, or have them while living in a foreign country and then split from your partner, you may not be able to bring your kids back home? You may also find yourself ‘stuck’ abroad, in a country that you no longer want to be in. It’s a situation that my guest Roz Osbourne has personal experience with, and it’s why she founded the charity, GlobalARRK more than a decade ago.
With Roz we’re going to deep-dive into how expats become stuck parents, why they’re so often mothers, and the risk factors that go along with their situations - for example, 81% report they have suffered domestic abuse.
Keep listening until the end if you’re in an international relationship and have or are considering kids. Roz has some practical advice to share to help prevent an international custody crisis.
Some pretty big life events happened around the time Australian expat Rachael Kowald turned 30. She moved from London to Glasgow for the lower cost of living, returned to school as a mature age student, and then, she decided to buy a house!
Rachael’s studying nursing, she also works as a carer for people with spinal cord injuries and - now she’s a homeowner.
In this interview, we talk about how she got into college and then university as a foreigner, the different streams of nursing study that you can choose between in Scotland, the house-buying process and local living costs.
What does it take to become truly location independent? Do you have the qualities needed to thrive working remotely? And what boring-but-important admin elements do you need to think about if you intend to work from anywhere?
Find out the top countries hiring remotely today, and the various ways you could go about sustaining a location independent life in my chat with Lucy Jeon. She’s an International Career Expert, founder of HeyGlobally, AND she hosts the podcast ‘Self-Made Expats’ where expat entrepreneurs share their stories.
I have a returning guest today - it’s Mia Stewart, who joins me to talk about winning the US Green Card Lottery. Also known as the DV Lottery, or the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
If you’ve listened to my first interview with Mia, you’ll recall that she and her husband moved from Australia to the USA a few years ago, to LA specifically, on an O-1 Visa. So we’re going to find out the process they’ve gone through to adjust their visa status, and what made them enter the green card lottery in the first place?
But that’s not all that Mia’s been up to, she’s also had a baby in the States. And if you listened to my recent interview with Cigna Healthcare, you’ll know just how important it is to have good health insurance when you live in the USA. So Mia and I are also going to speak about that, and some of the costs related to her pregnancy.
Gabor Holch’s relationship with China began two decades ago, on what he thought was simply a two-year sabbatical. As an Intercultural Leadership Coach and Consultant, Gabor has worked with China-based managers at countless multinationals over the years. And he was there for what was dubbed the ‘Golden Age’ for foreign businesses in China, when loads of expats were moving there on lucrative work packages, for a guaranteed boost in their careers.
Gabor joins me for a chat about how the business landscape has changed, and the key attractions and benefits of China for today’s international talent. We touch on China’s infamous internet restrictions, and some of the many anecdotes that Gabor gathered on work and life from expat professionals for his latest book, called Dragon Suit.
How easy is it for a foreigner to find a job in Denmark, if they haven’t been fortunate enough to line up something for when they arrive? What sectors are they most likely to find work in, and what are some need-to-knows about Danish workplace culture? My guest to answer all of these questions and more is Kate Dahl, a career consultant for internationals in Denmark.
Writer and Editor Kirsten Raccuia is known for her Sand in My Curls blog, which until recently, was all about her expat life in Malaysia. We last spoke at the height of the global pandemic, when she and her husband were closing in on a decade in Penang.
Fast-forward a couple of years, and they’re in a new country, Mexico. I’m chatting with Kirsten again to find out what factors influenced their decision to move, and why Mexico? And what it was like to close the Malaysia chapter of their life abroad.
I first spoke to Max Lee just over a year ago on the show, and he was preparing to move his young family from North America to Taiwan. It was a move abroad that they’d been planning for many years, and Max intended to focus on his music career in their new country, while his wife would be remote working for a company back in the States.
One year on, I’m excited to find out where they’re at - what went to plan, and what plans changed.
A topic that comes up quite often in our Facebook groups is moving abroad with children. What’s the ideal age? Especially if they're going to need to learn a new language? What about the best time of year to move? And how do you make the assimilation process, from learning new cultural norms to making new friends, as smooth and enjoyable as possible?
My guest today is someone who can speak from experience. Sharon Green is the founding editor of online publication SHE DEFINED. And in 1998, just before she turned 12, Sharon migrated with her family from Durban in South Africa to Melbourne in Australia.
Sharon’s going to share her experience of being a third culture kid, and how it has shaped her sense of belonging as an adult.
When American, Samaki Dorsey Schneider moved to France permanently five years ago, the last thing the 44 year-old expected was to need to take a driving test. But that’s the reality for some expats who can’t simply exchange their existing driver’s license for a French one. Keep listening to find out why this is the case, what the testing process is like in France, some of the costs involved and the road rules that might be a little different to what you’re used to.
Click here to get a quote from Cigna Healthcare for health insurance in the USA.
When you're moving abroad, one of the things at the top of your to-do list should be sorting out health insurance, especially if you're moving to a country like the USA with no universal healthcare system.
So, where do you even start? What's the minimum essential health coverage that you should have in the States? And what does a good health insurance plan there even look like? How much will you be out of pocket for medications? What would a trip to the emergency room cost you? And what health treatments are seen as extras in the USA? To answer all these questions and more, Kate Lambon from Cigna is joining me in this episode.
Finding or creating a sense of community can be a real challenge when you live abroad. Greek American Pare Gerou is building hers from the ground up in the form of a cohousing community in southern Greece. So what is cohousing and just how ‘communal’ is it? What kinds of people would you be living with, and what if you don’t get along? Keep listening to find out in my chat with Pare about the Greek Village Cohousing project.
We also discuss Greece’s golden visa scheme, how much it costs to join a cohousing community, and what happens if one day you decide to leave.Pare, just before we kicked off this podcast, we were talking about Greece versus Portugal and why you think Greece is a bit underrated and Portugal perhaps overrated. So maybe we can start with you telling me about why you were and why you think other people should be more attracted to Greece.
It’s one thing to dream about living life in another country, but it can be quite daunting to make that dream a reality. Especially if you’re, say, a little bit older than fresh out of college. Today’s guest, Cepee Tabibian, tried and failed a few times to move from the USA to her dream life in Spain. She finally succeeded at the age of 35, and formed the She Hit Refresh community to inspire other women aged over 30, to follow in her footsteps.
We’re going to talk through some common considerations for women when it comes to moving abroad in your 30s, what new work and visa opportunities are available for US citizens in Europe, and what Cepee sees as the 4 key elements to a successful move abroad.
Now Cepee is a fellow podcaster, so after you listen to this chat, be sure to search for her “She Hit Refresh” podcast.
The Covid pandemic has been a catalyst for change for so many of us. How are you living your life differently to before the year 2020? Husband and wife, Alex and Michelle, actually had a big move abroad in mind before the global shutdown derailed their plans. Now, they’re catching up.
They quit their jobs, sold most of their stuff and moved - with their two cats - from Texas to Rotterdam in the Netherlands on the Dutch American Friendship Treaty, or DAFT, Visa.
The couple document their lives on their YouTube channel; it’s called Buncharted. And we chat today about their experience of setting up in the Netherlands, applying for their visa - which only happens after you arrive, lifestyle differences, and what they’d leave behind if they had to pack for their move all over again.
Today’s guest built a successful business - and brand - around her passport country’s most popular food - pierogi. And she did it in the bustling city of Shanghai.
Gosia Modlinska shares why she first moved to China a decade ago, how she navigated local rules and regulations as she ran her polish dumpling business, and why she pivoted to cocktails and became known for serving up one of the best martinis in town.
Welcome to another year of Expat Focus podcasts. We’re kicking off 2023 with an episode about life and career change, which tends to go hand-in-hand with a decision to move abroad.
It’s certainly true for me. Actually, this year marks 10 years since I decided to quit my job and life in Australia, to move to the UK to see what else I was capable of.
My guest is Midlife Career Change Coach Josh Peck, who talks about our common motivations for making a change, the three key elements for success, and the common reasons that can hold people back.
Josh, thanks so much for joining me on the Expat Focus podcast.
Hey there, it’s Carlie with the Expat Focus Podcast.
It’s another festive themed episode! We’re discussing Christmastime in South Korea and Spain with American expat and English teacher, Jesse Sweed. We talk about festive activities in the classroom, the perils of the Secret Santa gift, Spain’s Three Kings Day and how Jesse’s experience of the holidays in three countries has influenced how he celebrates this time of year with his own family.
Oh and a little footnote - I have a "pooping log" question in this interview that seemed to stump Jesse - it turns out, it’s a Catalan Christmas tradition.
Did you know that fried chicken is a Christmas tradition in Japan? And that the festive season is more about romance and gift giving between couples than arranging presents for the kids? Former expat and current Japanese tour company founder Nicki has lots of other fun facts to share from her 10 years' living in the country.
So, whether you are an expat in Japan, planning a trip there, or just curious about how Christmas time is recognized in other parts of the world, I hope you enjoy this chat with Nicki.
When American Sara Dyson moved to Croatia in 2012, she couldn’t find any local resources in English to help her. So as she figured things out - like residency and healthcare, Croatian culture and learning the language, she posted about it on her website, expatincroatia.com, to help other foreigners. Close to a decade later, Expat in Croatia is a full-blown business, and Sara is about to become a Croatian citizen.
In this interview, we talk about why Sara moved to Croatia, the ‘one giant grey area’ that is local bureaucracy and how to work through it, and what she loves about the Croatian way of life.
The continent of Africa is our destination today. We’re going to be talking about living and working in Rwanda with Italian expat, Giulia, who decided to take a leap away from her life in Europe to follow a job opportunity.
Giulia talks about her first impressions of the city of Kigali, and why it’s known as the ‘Switzerland’ of Africa. We also talk safety, work opportunities and local workplace culture, Giulia’s experience with the health care system, choosing to ‘not’ learn the local language, ordering warm beer, and the personal growth that happens when you leave your comfort zone.
Have you ever visited a city in a foreign country, and just felt immediately at home? That was Laurel Wright’s experience whilst on a solo European holiday from the USA. Wanting to escape the hustle culture of LA, she decided to pack up her life, and move to Berlin.
We recorded this chat a couple of months back, and talk about what Berlin is like in the summer, how she found a job and navigated German bureaucracy, freelancing in Berlin, workplace culture and making friends with locals. Laurel also explains the ways in which her quality of life - and perspective - has changed for the better since her move abroad.
Do you have your eye on a rundown old property in the French countryside? Are you planning to leave your big city life behind for a simpler one? Do you really know what to expect? Best-selling Author and Editor Janine Marsh gave up her city life in London and made the move to a neglected farmhouse in Northern France more than a decade ago.
Find out what attracted her and husband Mark to the Seven Valleys, the creature comforts they had to leave behind in the big smoke, what they’ve learnt in their many years of renovating their home and trying to be self-sufficient, and the point at which they truly started feeling like locals.
Today’s guest is an accidental social media influencer. American, Kacie Rose Burns has amassed a community of over one million people across TikTok and Instagram. And it all started with a little video she posted on her way to her new life in Italy. When I told a friend I was going to interview Kacie, she said “I just want to meet her in Italy and eat gelato together.” And that’s exactly the vibe you get watching Kacie’s social media videos.
We chat about what led her to leave her career in New York and move to Florence, Italian culture and food, including what you should never do to pasta, and some of the opportunities that have come her way thanks to her social media fame.
Joining me today is award-winning podcaster and Business Strategist, Christine Job. She has spent the past five years living in Valencia in Spain, and her podcast, Flourish in the Foreign, celebrates the voices and stories of black women, and women of colour, who are - just like her - living and thriving internationally.
We talk about Christine’s own journey abroad, passport privilege, and how her experiences differ as a woman of colour in a foreign country. Christine also discusses how life in Spain has healed her, and helped her to become the person that she is today.
Breathwork Academy Creator Artur Paulins first left Latvia to study in Denmark knowing zero Danish. He later moved on to London with no connections or contacts. And then after a good 10 years abroad, a gut-feeling told him it was time to move home. We chat in this episode about his repatriation process, feeling like a stranger in the country he grew up in and how, in the process of returning home, Arthur had a realisation about his next path.
Whether you’re doing it solo or as a family, a lot of energy goes into planning an international move and getting settled in a new location. And it can take a toll, both physically and mentally. So, what can you do to help keep your overall health in check?
I’m chatting to an expert from one of our health partners - Cigna - in this episode, to get some insight into recent trends, and recommendations on how to make good health a priority, no matter where you are in the world.
Recently on the show, we heard from a couple who made the decision to move to Oman, and were off within a matter of weeks. Today’s guest has been planning his family’s move abroad for many years. In the summer of this year, 2022, Max Lee, his wife and their two young kids will leave the USA for Taipei in Taiwan. In the lead up to their much-anticipated overseas adventure, they’re nomading around North America. I caught up with Max when they were in Mexico to talk about their plans and expectations.
My guest today moved to Sweden from the UK, for love. But she felt a connection to the country long before meeting her partner. Katy Hetherington has quickly accumulated loads of first-hand experience in how to navigate different aspects of Swedish life - everything from getting set up, to getting a job, becoming a citizen, having a baby and even building a house. She’s going to share her top 5 things to know before moving to Sweden.
Are you dreaming of just packing up your life for an adventure abroad? In this episode, you’ll hear from a couple that did just that. They made the decision to move from the UK to Oman, and in just a few weeks, they were off.
Teacher Sheri Lennon and Author Matt Jardine will explain how they navigated getting the right visas, adhering to the local dress code, and working culture. You’ll also find out about the cost of living in Oman, how easy it is to make friends with locals, and what they believe makes the country such a great place for expats.
Before the pandemic hit, American Jake Doherty was running two very successful tour guide services in Bavaria. When Covid-19 completely decimated the travel industry, he had to find another way to put food on the table.
In this chat, find out what motivated Jake to become a tour guide and settle in southern Germany, and why he set up his interactive cooking experience platform called Deri Dari.
Is it ok to travel for pleasure during a global pandemic? How do you weigh up the “risk” versus “reward”? And as the world currently deals with the Omicron wave of COVID, what measures can you take to make your travel as safe and as responsible as possible? American, Crissy Whalin is my guest to chat through these questions. In 2018, she started travelling the world full-time with her then 10-year-old son, Zephyr, and together they’ve visited 40 countries and more than 100 cities, documenting their adventures on the Instagram account, singlemombudgettravel.
Covid grounded them for a bit, but they recently took another trip, and Crissy is going to share her perspective on travelling during a global pandemic, while looking after yourself and the locals.
Finding your tribe, family, community, whatever you like to call it, is so important when you move to a new place. Expats Angelina and Bonny know this first hand, having moved to the UK from Poland and France. They started their business, International School of Life, to connect expat women globally, helping them to boost their confidence, unlock their talent and grow their network so they can thrive.
ISL Co-founder Angelina Piechowska joins me in this episode to chat about her own challenging experience moving abroad, her work as a psychologist and solution-focused brief therapist, and why she’s so passionate about helping fellow expat women realise their full potential.
Following Brexit and amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, is living and working in the United Kingdom as attractive as it used to be?
In the past two years, we’ve seen a mass exodus of many expats from the countries they were calling home. The number of visas granted to Aussies to live and work in the UK reportedly dropped 74% in 2020. That same year, the UK issued 48% fewer youth mobility and temporary worker visas to Kiwis. But are New Zealanders and Australians beginning to come back to the UK? And what opportunities are they finding when they arrive?
Clint Heine is the Manager and Director of Kiwis in London, a very popular Facebook Group set up to help New Zealanders – and Australians – to find jobs, places to live and socialise. He’s joining me in this episode to share his thoughts.
If you live in the UK or in the EU, you’ve no doubt noticed an unwelcome trend in added fees and charges when receiving parcels from online shopping. Even parcels sent from family and friends abroad are turning up with added fees to pay.
There’s a lot of confusion about what these fees are for, when they should be applied, and why they’ve even come into play. And if you’re an expat business owner, you might be wondering what you can do to try to minimise the pain of these fees for your customers so that they keep coming back and ordering from you.
My guest today is Matt Harrison, a Sales Director at tax compliance firm, Avalara. He’s going to explain where these fees and charges have come from, when we have to pay them and why, if customs forms are filled out correctly, it should still be ok to send parcels to your friends and family overseas for Christmas.
Do you know if there’s a pension agreement between your home country, and the one you’re living in now? Do you know what you’ll be entitled to come retirement age, if you decide to stay living abroad? The lack of an agreement and what that means is what I’m discussing today with fellow Aussies Judy and Peter, a writer and a lawyer behind the group Australian Pensions in France.
Australia has 31 international social security agreements with other countries, and France has 42, but they don’t have one with each other. For eligible Aussies living in France, and vice versa, it’s a pretty big problem that’s not easy for all to overcome.
My guest today is Alex, a language coach with a YouTube channel called ‘French In Plain Sight’.
Now, as the name suggests, he coaches French learners, and I'm one of those, but a lot about his approach is relevant to learning pretty much any language. What I find unique about Alex is that he's not native, and his coaching method is really derived from his own experiences of learning French.
We're going to be talking about finding confidence when learning a foreign language, how important those grammar rules really are, and if he thinks you're wasting your time on language apps like Duolingo.
Today’s guest is sharing her experience of applying for Dutch citizenship. For Akanksha Pathania, it was a big decision, not least because becoming a citizen of the Netherlands required her to renounce her Indian citizenship. Find out what the process entailed, how you can best prepare for the exams, and why for Akanksha, becoming Dutch has been worth it.
This past year has really put our health and wellbeing in the spotlight – whether it’s been dealing with a Covid-19 diagnosis ourselves, supporting loved ones, or dealing with the mental and physical health impacts of long-term lockdown and significant lifestyle change.
Health service providers have played a key role during the pandemic, and my guest for this episode is from one of our health partners here at Expat Focus - Cigna Europe.
Doctor Peter Mills is going to talk through the ways in which they’ve evolved as an organisation to support the needs of their customers and what types of services have been in demand during the crisis, and he’s going to answer some listener questions.
We are chatting to one of our regular columnists today, Ben Zabulis, who I’ve interviewed in the past about his decision to retire to Hong Kong. Now, lots has been happening in the world since our last chat, so I’m really keen to check in with him and hear his perspective, and also find out how he and his partner keep themselves well and healthy as retirees abroad.
I hope you enjoy this conversation, and if you are looking for expat health and wellness resources yourself, head over to our website, expatfocus.com.
So many workplaces have had to make drastic changes over the past year, which has affected how we do our jobs and, in some cases, if we even still have one. Whether you’re already abroad or looking to move internationally for work, it’s a daunting time to be searching for that next opportunity.
How has the pandemic affected your industry? Are there fewer jobs around? Have employer expectations changed? And what does the remote working trend mean for the traditional expat job posting? Will it even exist in the future? My guest, Gillian Cramb, an HR consultant based in the South of France, is joining me in this episode to share her insights and give you some job application tips.
Expat entrepreneurs Mayank Marthur and Octavian Pop are the founders of Avasa AI. They met when Mayank was searching for a property to rent in London, and they realised there was a gap in the market for a complete home search solution that really works for the tenant – so, they created it.
You’ve no doubt heard about the devastating second wave of Covid-19 that India’s currently experiencing, and how it has overwhelmed the local health system. Many foreigners have decided to leave while they still can, as countries put bans on flights to try to prevent the spread of India’s Covid mutation.
One foreigner who is staying put in the country is YouTuber Ben Jenks. An American, he has been based there for the past couple of years, and he’s joining me in this episode to describe what the situation is like where he is, in South India, why he’s decided to stay, and how he’s keeping safe.
Our listener Susan recently got in touch and asked if we could do an episode on deafness and hearing loss, and the challenges these conditions can present when you’re abroad. So Liam O'Dell, deaf freelance journalist and campaigner, is joining us today to speak about the subject and his own experiences.
Tax expert Oliver Heslop from Global Expatriate Tax Services is back today, and he’s going to give us an update on UK and EU pension rights after Brexit. It’s very good news for the million plus Brits living in EU countries and the more than 3 million EU citizens who call the UK home.
Oliver is also going to touch on what you should keep in mind this tax season if you have relocated, and the potential tax implications of everyone working from home - and possibly from a different country - in 2020.
Today's guest is Rebecca Grappo, the founder of RNG International Educational Consultants. Rebecca has been working with expat families for decades, and I wanted to get her perspective on the Covid-19 pandemic, how it has affected international students – in particular, over the past 12 months – and what expat families can do to continue to help and support their children, as distance learning continues.
Deciding to pack up your life abroad and head back to your home country can be difficult enough, but doing it during the Covid-19 pandemic brings all kinds of extra challenges.
Australian journalist, Denee Savoia, recently returned home after four years living and working in Turkey. However, getting herself home certainly hasn’t been straightforward. She was among the tens of thousands of Aussies that – even now – remain ‘stuck’ abroad, due to travel restrictions and Australia’s international arrival caps.
I caught up with Denee during her stay in hotel quarantine in Brisbane, to chat about the difficulties that she faced, and how it feels to finally be back on Aussie soil
Recent updates and changes to the United Arab Emirates’ legal system are set to benefit the millions of expats that call the country home. Law reforms announced in November cover divorce, wills, and local rules around the consumption of alcohol and unmarried couples living together.
Alexandra Tribe, lawyer and owner of Expatriate Law, joins me in this episode to talk through what the changes mean for the foreigners in the UAE. You can continue the conversation about these law changes in our ‘Expat UAE’ Facebook group.
The end of 2020 marks the end of the Brexit transition period, and one of the big changes for UK nationals is how long they can spend at second homes in the EU. Up until now, British nationals have been able to spend up to six months a year at another property on mainland Europe without running into any issues around residency.
But that all changes from 2021. My guest, Jason Porter – a director at Blevins Franks in the UK – is going to explain why you’ll most likely need to keep a closer eye on how much time you spend outside the country.
The dreaded C-word has really dominated the year, but now we’re reaching the end of 2020, and it’s the B-word that a lot of British expats in particular are worried about, as they rush to secure a base in mainland Europe.
Oliver Heslop from GETS – Global Expatriate Tax Services – is back on the show today to talk through where things stand when it comes to residency, benefits like healthcare, tax and pensions. We also touch on home working and the possibilities for moving to another country and taking your existing job with you.
At the time of recording this, of course, Brexit talks are still ongoing, so for the most up-to-date advice, specific to your situation, you can drop Oliver a message through the Expat Focus website.
How much do you keep up with the news and issues back in your ‘home’ country? Where do you go for updates on subjects that affect you, like new law proposals and policy changes? American Citizens Abroad is an apolitical organisation, on a mission to educate and advocate for US citizens living and working overseas, from expat voting rights to citizenship issues, taxes and healthcare.
ACA Executive Director Marylouise Serrato joins me in this episode to talk through some of the important work they’re doing from their headquarters in Washington D.C., for the benefit of all American expats.
Today we’re exploring some of the need-to-knows if you’re planning a move to Vietnam. My guest is Creighton Wong, an American who owns a digital marketing agency. In more normal times, he would be based not just in Vietnam but in other parts of the world too, as a digital nomad. Creighton’s going to share his opinion and experiences with visas, Vietnam’s healthcare system, working in the country as a foreigner, finding places to live, and learning the language.
The current pandemic has left a lot of people around the world in limbo, and Christina Sinn is one of them. A German expat, Christina ‘should’ be in Australia right now, where she’s been based for the past few years, after living in China and the UK. But she and her partner happened to be visiting Germany when COVID-19 hit its first peak and international borders closed, and now they’re stuck there.
Christina’s going to share the challenges they’ve experienced in trying to get back to their life in Australia, in needing to adjust to their new life back in Germany, and how she and her partner have worked through needing to drastically change their plans.
Australia is known for its incredible natural beauty, great quality of life and multicultural society. If you’re planning a move ‘down under’ (for sometime after the pandemic, when borders are open again), blogger and teacher Courtney Alkek has some excellent advice to share. She and her husband moved to Australia from the USA. They’ve had two kids in the country, lived in two different cities: Brisbane and Adelaide, and they’re now going through the process of becoming Aussie citizens.
There’s been a bit of debate online about whether we’ll see a baby boom from the coronavirus lockdown. Is all this forced time at home the perfect opportunity to get pregnant, or, is a pandemic pregnancy the last thing on your mind?
If you are planning to start - or add to - your family, you might want to give some thought to teaching your child a second language. It’s so much easier for them to pick up when they’re young, right?
Annika Bourgogne is our guest in this episode to talk about raising multilingual kids. She’s done it herself, she’s the author of Be Bilingual, a language teacher and an entrepreneur. And Annika recommends you research and decide on your approach to raising your child with more than one language, before they come into the world.
Poland has been rising up the rankings as one of the best countries for expats to live and work in, and we’re going to chat to one such expat today. Blogger Anda Alexandra relocated from Romania to Poland, for work. And, almost a decade later she’s still there, married with a child and she’s going to talk through some moving essentials: from finding a place to live to opening a bank account, learning the language... Anda has some especially great insights to share with you on job hunting, navigating healthcare and pregnancy in the country.
There’s not a huge amount of moving about the world going on at the moment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t research and plan. And if you’ve got a move to Malaysia on your mind, we have the perfect guest to give you some insider knowledge.
Writer Kirsten Raccuia and her husband Mark moved from the USA to Penang seven years ago. In this episode, she’s going to talk through their experiences with visas, working options, renting, and why you don’t need to necessarily freak out if you inspect a place with no kitchen. We also cover whether you need to learn one of the three main Malaysian languages, and what she’d do differently if they made their move again.
When you’re planning a move to a new country, there’s a lot to get your head around, and understanding how things work locally is key to quickly landing on your feet. Today’s guest is Emma Pearson, Editor of The Local France, a website covering French news, culture and practical tips on everyday life in the country. Emma’s going to walk us through how to move to France. We cover everything from visas, to finding a job, a place to live, getting into the French healthcare system, opening a bank account and schooling options if you have kids. Think of this, as a really useful “pick your brain” session with someone who has been through it all - in Emma’s case, twice in fact.
Just as the world was coming to grips with the seriousness of COVID-19 and countries were locking down, parts of China were getting over the worst of the pandemic and life was beginning to return to normal. This was the case when we recorded this interview with Mauricio ‘Momo’ Estrella, an Ecuadorian digital designer based in Shanghai with his wife and young son. In fact, Momo tells me that now, life is very much back to normal there.
In this chat he’s going to explain how a city of more than 24 million people handled the outbreak, and what that experience was like. We also discuss how he adjusted culturally to life in China when he first made the move a decade ago. We also chat about the country’s social credit scoring system: Momo explains why it’s not as creepy as that episode of Black Mirror makes the concept out to be!
Where are you spending your coronavirus lockdown? Are you in a densely populated city? A smaller town, where social distancing is made that bit easier? Are you spending this time away from where you’d normally call home? Maybe you’re on your own property in the countryside, with not a soul in sight…
Danish expat Christian Graugart and his young family are spending their isolation time at home in St Barts, a small French island in the Caribbean. In this episode, Christian explains how they got there, and what lockdown life is like on a 25 square kilometre island with a pretty small population, only one supermarket and currently, no swimming allowed!
The property market - like so many sectors right now - has slowed down as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. Tenants, landlords and homeowners are all feeling the pressure. Governments are being looked to for bailout packages, while people in the process of buying or selling are now working to completely unknown timelines.
We arranged this interview with today’s guest - Ugo Arinzeh, founder of Onyx Property Consultants - just before the pandemic fully hit, with the intention of sharing her insight into how the US property market works and providing tips for first-time investors there. We’re still going to talk about that, along with Ugo’s work with clients where she’s based in the UK. But she’s also going to share her thoughts on what the current crisis means for property owners; the risks and the opportunities.
Government-mandated isolation has become the new normal for so many of us, as the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m in lockdown here in France where only essential shops remain open, and we need to carry a permission form when we leave the house which can only be for specific reasons like, going to the supermarket, the pharmacy or doing some exercise close to home.
In this episode I’m chatting to American expat Leslie Keeler Saglio about her experience with coronavirus containment where she lives in Spain. As she mentions, the situation is changing so quickly, and since we recorded this interview on Thursday the 19th of March, Spain has introduced a permission form for its citizens to be able to leave the house. The country has recorded its highest number of virus deaths in a day, and its nationwide lockdown won’t be lifted until the 11th of April at the earliest.
As a motivational speaker and life coach, Leslie has some good advice for how we can all lift our spirits and try to focus on the positives at this very difficult time.
You might be feeling a bit paralysed by the news at the moment as the Coronavirus pandemic worsens across the world, and governments update their guidance every day. But amid the chaos, are people trying to do some good.
Volunteers in many countries are sewing masks for local hospital staff facing shortages. GoFundMe pages have been set up so we can buy coffees for people doing essential work. A new website in Australia is highlighting small businesses doing it tough that are still able to open.
And in Switzerland, an expat entrepreneur is hoping to connect communities through his new app. Slovakian Stefan Kuruc is our guest in this episode to talk about how Help’n’Trade can be used by individuals and families, to get the support they need.
Today we’re exploring the foreigner’s experience of working in Asia, with a man who has written a book on the subject; Steve McGinnes.
Originally from England, Steve has lived and worked across the Asian continent for fifteen years, and his book combines practical advice with first-hand stories and experiences of professionals, covering topics including power, relationships, family and corruption. So whether you’re already working in Asia, looking to make the move, or just curious about some of the key cultural differences between Asian work environments and the West… I hope you enjoy this interview.
The Coronavirus pandemic is forcing cities across the world into lockdown, and in Italy, American business owners Linda and Steve have had to close their Rome hostel, The Beehive, for the first time in 21 years.
In this episode, the couple share what the past few weeks have been like as the impact of COVID-19 set in, what support Italy is providing to business owners like themselves, and how they’re hoping to survive this very tough time.
Mario Cacciottolo's move from the UK to Malta was very much a homecoming. He spent the first 12 years of his life in the country, and its booming economy, 300 days of sunshine a year and a desire to close some local ‘knowledge gaps’ were big motivators for him to return.
In this chat, he’s going to shed some light on what it’s like to live on this small island in the Mediterranean. You’ll find out where you can expect to land a job as a foreigner, where you should look for your first apartment, the best ways to get around, and, find out if you should bother learning Maltese in a country where English is an official language too. Mario also shares his thoughts on getting to know the locals, and explains why for him and his wife, every Friday is the start of a holiday.
A fellow podcaster is our guest on this episode, to give you the lowdown on what it takes to set up and run your business from anywhere in the world. Sundae Bean is an American by birth and the host of the ‘Expat Happy Hour’ podcast.
Sundae is an intercultural strategist who left her corporate job in Switzerland to set up her own coaching business, working from Burkina Faso in West Africa and later, from South Africa.
In this chat, Sundae’s going to talk through:
- how she identified her ‘calling’ and her clients
- the admin that comes with working for yourself and being location independent
- time management and motivation as a solopreneur
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how she juggles clients all over the world while also carving out time for herself
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money, and earnings - what’s realistic when you’re starting out on your own
Sundae also stresses the importance of investing in yourself, and ‘doing the work’ to reach your goals.
Caitlin Taylor is a style coach, fashion blogger and podcaster who describes her expat life in New Zealand as “same-same but different.” In this chat, you’ll find out about the Kiwi fashion scene; how Caitlin’s business has evolved over a decade; and how she found her business ‘tribe’ in her new home.
It’s a major “achievement unlocked” as an expat when you start to understand how the locals tick - and how long that takes is different for everyone. American, Chelsea, lives with her Norwegian husband in the town of Henningsvær in Norway. They’ve been together for five years and in that time, she’s learnt a thing or two about the Norwegian approach to life - ten things in fact that she’s going to share in this episode.
It’s all happening in the UK at the moment; at the time of recording this the general election is just one week away, and the outcome could determine when, how and if Brexit will end up happening.
The UK’s exit from the European Union and the tax and social security implications have been top of mind for British expats for a long time now. We're checking in on these issues with tax advisor Oliver Heslop on today’s show, he’s also going to explain why it could be well worth Brits abroad - and anyone who has worked in the UK - investigating their pension entitlements.
Has a beachfront holiday home in Mexico taken your fancy? Maybe you’ve spotted a place with a great rental return in Malta. Or perhaps you have your sights set on a house to retire to, in Panama. If you’ve never invested in property abroad before, it’s hard to know where to begin. So today’s guest is going to give you some pointers, talking through the current hotspots and the things that can trip up people who are new to the international investment scene.
Lief Simon is the founding editor of Global Property Advisor. Over 20 years, he has bought more than 45 properties and invested in 26 different countries around the world.
The logistics involved in expat life become even more complex when your partner is also a working expat. How do you successfully fuel each other’s professional ambitions, as well as personal? Is it inevitable that one half will need to sacrifice their career, or take a backseat in the relationship to support the other?
INSEAD Associate Professor Jennifer Petriglieri has researched hundreds of couples juggling two careers. She’s just released a book about the challenges that face working couples, and in this chat, Jennifer shares her thoughts on how you can successfully combine love and work, with life abroad.
One of the fastest-growing EU economies, Poland is also rising in the rankings of popular destinations for expats. The country moved from 23rd to 13th in this year’s HSBC Expat League Table, and it’s among the five best countries in Europe for digital nomads, according to the Remote Workers Index by Plusnet.
But before you pack your bags for Poland, there are some key things you should know. Our guest, American blogger and teacher Leah Morawiec, has lived in the country for almost a decade, and she’s going to share her top five tips.
Entrepreneur Alan La Rue is our guest in this episode of the Expat Focus podcast. A language school owner, he’s been living in the country for a long time, and is going to talk through the essentials: from where to live to what to bring with you; job opportunities in Peru; how to approach learning Spanish; and the Peruvian cultural norms that may take some getting used to.
If you’re planning to move to France and become a homeowner, you’re going to love today’s guest. Mark Sayers is the Head of the Pyrénées-Orientales team at Artaxa - a real estate agency in Perpignan. Buying property in a foreign country can be a pretty daunting task, with lots of unfamiliar processes. I know because, funnily enough, I’ve just been through it - and here in France. And I really wish I’d had this chat with Mark before we bought our home, because I would have had a much better understanding of what we were about to go through. From the best approach to house hunting in France, to making an offer - and knowing if there’s room to negotiate... what agency and notary fees to expect, and how long it typically takes before you get the keys. Mark is going to cover it all in this episode.
After her first child was born, and she decided she didn’t want to go back to full time work, British expat Melitta Campbell dived head-first into entrepreneurship. She set herself up as a freelancer in Montreux - a French-speaking part of Switzerland. She quickly picked up work, and then more work... and then, running a successful business and being a stay-at-home mum became a bigger challenge.
Years later, Melitta is on to her third business and she passes on her lessons learnt about focus and balance and asking for help, as a coach to other women who are working for themselves.
If you’re just starting out as an entrepreneur in Switzerland or elsewhere in the world, Melitta has some sage advice.
Do you dream of moving to LA to chase your Hollywood ambitions? Today’s guest has done exactly that: Mia Stewart and her husband Dave packed up their life in Australia, including their pets, and moved to the USA on O-1 visas. These visas are for “Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement.”
So what qualifies as ‘extraordinary ability’? What does this visa allow you to do, and how difficult is it to get? How did Mia and Dave successfully set themselves up in Los Angeles in just two weeks? How have they got on with landing jobs? What about healthcare? And what culture shocks have they experienced?
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus Podcast. I’m your host Carlie, and on today’s show we’re shining the spotlight on expat family life in Finland.
Paola is our guest, an Italian mum of two through birth and international adoption, who has lived in Finland for nine years. She blogs about multicultural family life at TheElephantMum.com, and she's going to share her insights on raising a family in Finland. We’ll talk through some of the country’s very family-friendly policies; Paola’s experience in fostering multilingualism in her kids; the international adoption process in Finland; community integration; and how she and her husband go about blending three cultures into their everyday lives.
Today on the show, we’re talking about raising children abroad, specifically as Third Culture Kids.
'TCKs' are people raised in a culture different to that of their parents, and the country named on their passport.
My guest, American Rachel Jones, is a mum of three TCKS. She left the USA with her husband and their young twins to work in northern Somaliland, and later Djibouti, where she still lives.
So what’s it like raising your kids in a country that’s so different to your own? How does the experience influence their development, and shape them as adults? And what challenges are you likely to encounter along the way? Rachel’s going to share her insights, which she hopes will help other parents create a thriving family culture while living internationally.
On today’s show we’re going to be talking to a Virtual Midwife. It’s information overload when you’re pregnant, and if you’re having a baby while living in another country, there can be even more layers of complexity - not just potentially in language, but in birth practices too. Your expectations versus the local reality might be quite different. Of course, you can find out almost anything online these days, but Googling stuff about pregnancy and childbirth... well, it’s a bit of a minefield. And that's where Midwife Karen Wilmot https://www.thevirtualmidwife.com/ comes in.
If you could start your life abroad all over again, what would you do differently? What would you prepare better for, and what mistakes would you avoid making? Trainer and stand-up comedian Carmine Rodi moved from a small town in southern Italy to Prague in the Czech Republic four years ago, for love. And about one year in to his expat life, he published a blog post that went viral, entitled ‘10 things I wish someone told me before I moved to Prague.’
Carmine joins me on the show to talk through his very popular - and slightly controversial - list, which he hopes has helped others to more easily navigate the cultural nuances in the country he calls home.
When you’re looking for a job in another country, it’s important to know how to make your applications stand out - or in the case of Denmark, fit in. Karey Anne Duevang, the CEO and Founder of Welcome Group Consulting, knows exactly how to do this.
A long-time expat in the country, she faced her own career challenges when she first moved to Denmark, and has since worked in operations for Danish companies, including in the area of recruitment.
On the show today, Karey Anne is going to go through five must-dos to really help with your local job search. In this chat, she also has some really useful insights into Danish work habits.
Cat Gaa was pretty good at Spanish when she was at school in the USA. She first went to Spain on a study abroad program, and soon found her way back there, this time teaching English. Cat worked out how to stay on in Spain, she started a blog at Sunshine and Siestas, and that blog turned into a side hustle with a fellow expat. Their business, Como Consulting Spain, helps fellow non-Europeans navigate the red tape around moving to the country and staying there long term. So how can you move to Spain and become a long-term resident as a non-European? And what else is important to know about life and culture in the different regions of Spain? Listen to find out.
Our guest today is based in Thailand - a country that is well known for attracting expats wanting good living on the cheap, but just how good, and just how cheap?
Brett Debritz is an Australian freelance journalist, currently on a ‘trial retirement’ in Thailand, and blogging at Expattaya.
If a move to the country is on your bucket list, you might want to take some notes during this chat, because Brett’s going to talk us through what you get for your money: from housing, to bills, groceries, and other expenses that some expats moving to Thailand may not necessarily anticipate.
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus Podcast! What challenges have you faced in trying to settle into your new home abroad? Did you find the integration process easy, or, was it quite difficult? How do you go about “fitting in” as an expat in a country like Switzerland - with four official languages, a bunch of unwritten social rules, and locals who have a reputation for being a little bit reserved? British expat Catherine Nelson-Pollard lives in the Swiss town of Nyon where she runs the website Living In Nyon. She’s got some great tips to share that will help make your new Swiss life just a little bit easier. And most of them apply to life in other countries as well.
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus Podcast. Today’s topic concerns US expat investors who are living in Europe, and new regulations known as 'PRIIPS'.
Our guest is Tom Zachystal from Individual Asset Management. He’s here to explain what the new regulation means, and highlight some other investment issues that Americans living abroad should be aware of.
Costa Rica is well-known as a haven for expat retirees, but what’s it like to move to this tropical paradise in Central America if you’re at not at that stage of life yet?
American Samantha moved to Costa Rica more than six years ago, for love. And she’s come a long way since first arriving with little knowledge of the country - needing to learn Spanish, find a job, make friends, understand how the local community - and systems - tick.
She’s come so far in fact, that she and her husband Yeison were even named Tourism Ambassadors for their work on their very successful Costa Rica travel blog, mytanfeet.com.
Samantha’s going to share her story of settling into life in Costa Rica, and how she navigated the integration bumps along the way.
In the latest episode of the Expat Focus podcast we’re talking about the way Brexit has altered the lives of EU citizens - including Brits - who have chosen to live in other member states. Elena Remigi is one of them. As an Italian living in the UK, the years since the 2016 Brexit vote have been filled with uncertainty over whether she’ll be able to stay - or is even still welcome - in the country she calls home. Elena founded a project called ‘In Limbo’. It started with a Facebook Group that she created for people to share their Brexit experiences. And these personal accounts from EU citizens in the UK were compiled for a book. That book - called ‘In Limbo’ was quickly followed by a second, entitled ‘In Limbo Too’ – which shares the stories of UK citizens living elsewhere in Europe. As the political stoush over a Brexit agreement continues, and the 29th of March comes ever closer, In Limbo is a reminder for all of us, of just how deeply this issue is affecting people’s lives.
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus podcast. Today on the show we’re talking about a country where the expat population is slowly but steadily on the rise: Estonia.
My guest is Alina Akk from expatinestonia.com. She’s Romanian, and this is her third year living and working in Estonia. Alina’s going to give us the lowdown on three essentials: finding somewhere to live, learning Estonian, and finding a job in the country.
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus podcast. Our guest this week is Steve Spriggs - the Head of Education at William Clarence Education. They advise and consult with families from around the world on British schools and universities.
So which schools are right for your children, factoring in not just their interests and your needs as a family... but also where you all might be in five years' time? Listen on to find out, and if you have any questions for Steve, you can post them in the Expat Focus UK Forum or Facebook Group.
Moving abroad often means losing that ‘insider’ status that you held in your home country. The advantage of just ‘knowing’ how a system or local industry works, where to find the tools or resources you need to get something done. Remco recognised this, and that his public workshop in Amsterdam could act as an entrance, not just for locals needing somewhere to knock up a coffee table or use specific machinery… but also for expat carpenters, designers, artists and D-I-Y enthusiasts. The Openbare Werkplaats is providing foreigners in Amsterdam with an entry point - and community - that they may not otherwise find.
Welcome to another episode of the Expat Focus Podcast, I’m your host Carlie, and my guest today is a UK expat, based in beautiful South West France, where he runs a guest house along with his partner. Their home is called Maison Mûrier, and on their website, Phill and Kev call it their ‘little bit of heaven’ in the French countryside. Looking at the stunning photos, their acre-and-a-half property has a pool, incredible views over sunflower fields, their house has seven bedrooms and there are a number of barns on the land as well. So how did they choose their dream French property? How was the renovation process and, what sort of qualities do you need to run a guest house in France? I spoke to Phill about his experiences, in November of 2018, at the end of his very first year as a host.
Visas can be an unwelcome, overwhelming necessity when you fall in love with someone from another country. This was the case for Australian Emma O’Neill-Sandham and her English partner Rich, when they decided they wanted to move from the UK to continue their life together back in Australia. Emma wrote about the intricate and intrusive process of applying for an Australian Partner Visa in a magazine piece entitled ‘The (Statutory) Declaration of Love’. In this episode, Emma’s going to talk through the difficulty of needing to legally prove and define your love for a visa, and she’s also going to offer some advice to other couples looking to do the same thing.
If you’re a member of one of the Expat Focus forums or Facebook groups, or in any international community group for that matter, you’ve likely seen a discussion around the term ‘expat’ and how it’s used. What makes one group of people ‘expats’, and another group ‘foreigners’, or ‘immigrants’? Why does the terminology matter, and how does it shape our views of different groups of people who move abroad? Our guest today is Gabby, the co-founder of Milk Café – a social enterprise in Glasgow, Scotland. Milk aims to empower and support refugee and migrant women, whom they take on as volunteers. But the café’s not just providing these women with an opportunity to gain new skills and experience; it’s also promoting greater community acceptance and understanding.
We’re diving into the Danish healthcare system today with a returning guest – expat blogger and expert, Melanie Haynes of Dejlige Days. She gave us some great insights into the Danish way of life in our first chat – so be sure to take a listen to our ‘Life in Denmark’ episode. This time, Melanie is going to go through everything you need to know about signing up with a doctor in Denmark, visiting the hospital, getting prescriptions, even having a baby in the country.
Is your dream to live, or continue living, in France? It is possible as a non-EU citizen, without needing to get married or become a student to make it happen. American Allison Lounes lives in France. She runs the website Paris Unraveled, and she helps people to navigate French administration - like visa applications - in a way that’s much less stressful than going it alone. Allison’s going to talk through the main options for non-Europeans; from getting PACSed to moving off a student visa, being sponsored by a company or going it alone as self-employed. And she’s going to explain what you need to put into your application to make your French dream a reality.
Bec Holmes moved to a village in the Austrian mountains, where she fell in love with a Dutchman and relocated to the Netherlands. After a few years, marriage happened, and then she became pregnant.
The first pregnancy is daunting for any woman, but add a foreign country and language into the mix, and there are a lot of unknowns. Bec has navigated pregnancy in the Netherlands twice now, and she has some great insights to share.
Did you know that the country you choose to divorce in can directly impact what assets you’re left with? Or that being an unmarried expat couple is a legal issue in some countries? Do you know how the laws of the country you’re living in apply to your children, if you’re having custody issues? Our guest in this episode of the Expat Focus podcast is Alexandra Tribe - a lawyer, and the owner of Expatriate Law, who specialise in family law advice for British expats. She’s going to talk though three common legal situations that expats can find themselves in.
If you’re a Brit in Europe, or a European citizen living in the UK, the issue of Brexit will be high on your radar. At the time of recording this, there are just six months to go until the UK leaves the European Union, and there’s still no deal.
European leaders at a summit in Salzburg just shot down the UK Prime Minister’s latest plan, so everyone’s gone back to the drawing board. There have been ‘no deal’ planning papers released, and right now, that prospect is looking like a scary reality.
So where does Brexit leave citizens’ rights, on both sides of the Channel? And what can expats in the UK and Europe be doing now, to best prepare?
Today’s guest is Daniel Tetlow, Co-founder of the organisation British in Germany, and a member of British in Europe. And - spoiler alert - he doesn’t have definitive answers, no one does right now, but he does explain why he and others are working so hard to get them. You’re going to hear Daniel mention the name ‘Michel Barnier' a few times in this interview - he’s the EU’s Chief Brexit negotiator. And you’ll find all the useful links that Daniel mentions, listed in our show notes.
When it comes to taking your career to Luxembourg – where do you begin? What are the main industries for expat workers in the country and, what sort of salaries can you expect? Do you need to speak one of the key languages, or can you get by with English?
You’re going to learn all about the Luxembourg job market in this episode. Our guest is Amy Amann, a local coach, trainer and consultant. So keep listening for some great insights and advice, on looking for work in Luxembourg.
Going it alone as self employed and setting up your own business is always a big step – and it’s an even bigger one to take, when you’re doing it in a foreign country. British expat Michelle Purse Sweeney did it in Germany 9 years ago, starting her own marketing business, and in this episode she shares her 5 key tips to help make your German business journey, a little bit easier.
When you move abroad, there are inevitably things you find out that you wish someone had told you about earlier. In this episode we're joined by James Cave from Portugalist, who is here to help if you're considering a move to Portugal.
When it came time to think about retiring, Ben Zabulis and his partner Hillary quickly realised that the typical European expat retiree destinations, like Spain, weren’t quite right for them.
Instead, they sold up in the UK and moved to Hong Kong; a place that had captured their hearts years before.
Ben’s a regular columnist for Expat Focus, and he joins us in this episode to talk about how he’s settled back into expat life.
In this episode we're focusing on tax issues for South African expats. Did you know they’re on track to break their own emigration record this year? And the biggest mistake expats can make, according to today’s guest, is thinking they’re not a big enough 'fish' for the South African Revenue Office to bother coming after. You won’t just disappear off their radar once you leave the country. Attorney and Financial Emigration Legal Specialist Jonty Leon is going to explain why sorting out your South African tax situation is just as important as deciding what comes with you when you move abroad.
In this week's podcast, Expat Focus talks to John Siskar about his experience of teaching in Germany. Having moved from being a kindergarten teacher all the way through to secondary school, John has a wealth of experience to share!
What can you expect as a foreign teacher working in Germany? And what do you do when your school goes bankrupt? American expat John Siskar wasn’t planning to dive into an international teaching career when he went travelling six years ago. And he certainly wasn’t expecting to later find himself with an almost empty bank account. Today on the show, John shares his insights into teaching in Germany, and explains how he navigated a really difficult situation.
Tony Elliott's job as an interest rate trader has seen him live in the some of the most exciting cities in the world. Meantime, as a dad, he's busy raising seven kids - in two countries. So what's expat life like when you've got a big family in different locations, and a job that means you need to move around, often at short notice? Listen to our latest episode to find out.
What was your biggest struggle when you moved to your new country? For Melanie Aronson, an American in Sweden, it was overcoming this unexpectedly deep sense of loneliness. She felt it so strongly, she decided to make a friend-finding app called Panion to help others who were feeling the same way she was. Keep listening to hear all about Panion, and Melanie’s experiences in Sweden.
Remote working has definitely hit the mainstream … and around the world, more and more people are taking the opportunity to be ‘temporary locals.’ Combining their jobs with longer-term travel, staying in one country for a month, or a few months at a time. Longer than the typical annual holiday allowance.
But how do longer stints abroad – when you’re working – impact your tax situation? Today on the show, Oliver Heslop joins me again. He’s the owner of GETS – Global Expatriate Tax Services,based in the UK. But he works with tax experts all over the world.
He’s going to talk through some things to consider if you’re living the digital nomad life. I should point out, Oliver’s not giving any specific advice in this episode, but you can ask him directly if you have a burning question; just go to the ‘financial’ tab at expatfocus.com and then click to ‘UK tax advice.’
What does it take to own and run a B&B in the Italian countryside? American Ashley Bartner can tell you all about it – and she’s going to, today on the Expat Focus Podcast.
10 years ago, she and her husband Jason left the hustle and bustle of New York for a big old farmhouse in the beautiful Marcheregion of Italy. They’ve turned it into a very successful organic farm, inn and cooking school – called La Tavola Marche. But that’s not all - Ashley and Jason are also helping other expats lay the groundwork to realise their own dreams of ‘living the sweet life’ in Italy, after experiencing first-hand, the consequences of being unprepared.
What’s your motivation for moving abroad? British expat Melanie Haynes was ready for an adventure, and it led her and her husband to move to Denmark. More than eight years later, they’re still there, living in the capital of Copenhagen. And Melanie’s blog dejligedays has become a go-to for many English-speaking expats in the city; she shares her discoveries, recommendations and gives newcomers advice for settling in. In this episode, Melanie shares her relocation story, and provides a little insight into the Danish way of life.
For a lot of us when we move abroad, the last thing we really want to think about is our tax situation; getting paperwork in order, remembering reporting dates and deadlines for a country we’re no longer living in.
It might not be exciting, but it’s necessary, and our guest in this episode is going to run through some common scenarios for UK expats.
OLIVER HESLOP is the owner of GETS – Global Expatriate Tax Services, and his company has tax specialists based in the UK, the US and Australia.
During our chat, Oliver will provide some interesting tips and examples, but it’s important to point out that what he talks about here is not meant to be specific advice – for that, you should get in touch with him or another tax advisor.
The Netherlands is well known for its great work-life balance, its cycling culture, tulip fields... But did you know it’s also a bit of an expat’s dream when it comes to making your move to a new country, and settling in? My guests in this episode are Sharon and Gladys from Rotterdam Partners, and the Rotterdam Expat Centre. This and other centres like it in cities across the Netherlands are taking so much stress and hassle out of the life setup process for new arrivals. The ladies are going to explain how they help, and provide a few tips for those who are going to be making the move.
Could you handle composting your own toilet waste? What about doing away with the convenience of the supermarket, and growing all your own food? Choosing a life that is more sustainable and self-sufficient is becoming easier, and more realistic for many of us, and living off the grid can also be very affordable in some parts of the world, once you get past all the up-front costs. Ian Usher is the co-publisher of House Sitting Magazine. He also once sold his whole life on eBay, and scored a movie deal with Disney. But the chapter of his life that we’re going to dive into today is the one where he lived off the grid on his own Caribbean island, off the coast of Panama.
Expat Focus talks to entrepreneur Craig Carlson about moving to France and starting his diner chain, ‘Breakfast in America.’
In this episode, Expat Focus talks to Jonathan Brown – an American who is carving out a location-independent life, while basing himself in Singapore.
Jonathan originally moved to Asia to work for LinkedIn. Since then, he has published a book called The World Is Your Home, aimed at young professionals looking to take their own careers abroad.
So what is life like as an expat in Singapore? And what sort of cultural challenges can you expect? Jonathan’s going to share his insights.
Many of us want to ditch our 9-5 life and travel the world. But finding a viable way to do that long term can be a bit of a challenge! One way that is increasing in popularity is house sitting. Vanessa Anderson is the publisher of House Sitting - the Ultimate Lifestyle Magazine.
She and her partner Ian are living that ultimate lifestyle, as nomadic expats, looking after other people's homes and pets. So how does house sitting work exactly, and how do you get started? Vanessa's going to share some tips.
Expat Focus talks to Naomi Hattaway about repatriation, and what it's like to never quite feel at home. Naomi is the brain behind the popular I Am A Triangle concept, which she explains in more detail in the podcast.
Amanda Walkins talks to Expat Focus about how she came to move abroad, and how she ended up being a serial expat. Covering topics such as finance, check lists and the practical considerations necessary when changing countries, Amanda describes the joys and surprises of expat life.
Expat Focus talks to Jasmine Turner, an American expat teacher living in South Korea, about life, culture shock, and the isolation people can experience when living abroad.
Will Hewitson, Senior Partnerships Manager at FC Exchange, talks to Expat Focus about how to get a great rate on currency transfers, and moving your money abroad with confidence.
Vickie Skorji from Tell Japan talks to Carlie about the challenges of moving abroad and their impact on mental health.
Sarah Cole from John Murray Learning talks to Expat Focus about learning foreign languages.
Rebecca Grappo from RNG International Educational Consultants talks to Expat Focus about moving abroad with children.
Bethany Tucker from PetRelocation.com talks to Expat Focus about how to move abroad with your animals.
Tom Zachystal from Individual Asset Management talks to Expat Focus about some of the financial challenges US expats should consider
Anthony Parent from IRS Medic talks to Carlie about the US tax system and how it affects expats.
Guest hosts Claudine Gindel and Anthony Parent at IRS Medic talk to Tom Zachystal, founder of Individual Asset Management and Expat Focus partner, about why US brokerage accounts of Americans abroad are being closed down.
Learn more about IRS Medic at www.irsmedic.com and follow their Parental Advisory podcast at www.parentaladvisoryshow.com. Contact Tom through his enquiry form at Expat Focus.
Guest host Katy Sewall from the Bittersweet Life podcast talks to her co-host Tiffany Parks in Rome about her decision to move abroad.
Casey writes part-time on a variety of topics, including his family's move and their ongoing adventures in Costa Rica, chronicled in his blog, A Dull Roar. In addition, he authors two other blogs and contributes articles to Hubpages about do-it-yourself projects, science and technology topics, amateur radio, life and humor.
British expat blogger Lindsay de Feliz talks to Expat Focus about life in the Dominican Republic, her blog yoursaucepans.blogspot.com and her upcoming book.
In this podcast we talk to expat education expert Becky Grappo about the challenges of international education and how to find the right school for your child abroad.
In this podcast we talk to Simon Hilton about foreign exchange and currency transfer issues for expats sending money abroad.