For those seeking to move outside of the United States, figuring out the best country to move to can be a very daunting task. There are a ton of social, cultural, economic and safety issues to be considered. In addition, those who have never been outside of North America should not underestimate the severe "culture shock" that can take place when moving to another nation. While moving outside of the United States may seem like an attractive alternative, the truth is that it is not easy and it is not something to be done lightly. But there have been many Americans who have done it successfully and are now loving life. Our recent article, "Is Moving Out Of The United States A Way To Escape The Coming Economic Collapse?", generated some really great comments about what various areas of the world are like for Americans who move there. Today we wanted to share with you some of those comments. These commenters have some very strong opinions about where the best places for Americans to move to are, but the reality is that each person and each situation is different so keep that in mind as you read these....
Saigonbrian:
I’ve lived in China, Vietnam, and am currently living in Malaysia for the last few years. I’ve also traveled extensively during that time. Given the likely future problems in the US it’s certainly prudent to at least evaluate an alternative.
Our top two choices would be New Zealand (NZ) and Costa Rica (CR) with Malaysia coming in 3rd. NZ and CR are both beautiful countries and pretty much self-sufficient in needed resources. English, of course, is the language of NZ and it is widely spoken in CR. Though if you choose a country where English is not the native language; you’d be way better off learning the local language.
Some other options would be: Thailand; a beautiful very expat friendly country. Indonesia, in particular Bali. Vietnam and Cambodia would be OK for the more adventurous and they are cheap, cheap. Australia is fine, though the prices are pretty much US level. Singapore is nice if you want to live in one big city. Malaysia is interesting. It tries very hard to get expats to retire there. They have a formal program called “Malaysia My Second Home” (MM2H). You apply for it, and if you meet the criteria, you get a 10 yr, unlimited entry visa. There should be no trouble renewing it. You need to keep about $30,000 USD in a local bank account, buy a home that costs at least $175,000 USD, and have an income of $3,000 a month. I suspect these requirements will lessen. The program is relatively new and the government hasn’t seem to have chosen which expat group they’re really targeting: rich foreigners, well off investors, or retirees with more modest moola. The country is beautiful and fairly cheap to live in. We have a gorgeous 5,000 sf apartment with great, modern security features. Did I mention it’s on the beach with amazing views. The cost? About $2,400 USD a month!! Our electric bill, and we run the aircon a lot; is $25 bucks. We haven’t used our health insurance yet, as we’d not hit the deductible limit and the prices are very cheap. And the quality of care is 1st rate. My daughter twisted her ankle recently so we put the system to the test. The initial exam by an orthopedic surgeon, xrays, and a soft cast cost about $35 USD! Follow-up visits with the orthopedic surgeon cost $9 USD! Pretty darn good. My primary concern? The worry that the country will become too islamic. It is the official state religion though now it does treat the Chinese and Indian minorities relatively fairly. I’m just not sure it can resist the tendency for islam to become more intrusive and radical. Hopefully not, but the jury is still out.
Overall I’d suggest doing some research and find a few contenders. Then go to these places for a vacation. That will give you some 1st hand data. One thing you notice living overseas is that Americans are the least adventurous, 1st world; folks. We need to get over that.
Bon voyage!
Gringo in Brazil:
I recently made the move to Brazil with my family based primarily on the social and economic factors I witnessed and experienced. In Michigan, I found my business drying up, my home value plummeting, the job market disappearing, etc. More importantly, if the youth I saw at the malls and high schools are any indication of the future leadership of our country; we are in serious trouble. With less than 50% of our youth even graduating from High School, how do we stand a chance.
Fortunately I speak fluent Portuguese so I am able to adapt. I am earning about $1,300/mo plus commissions which is enough for a simple apartment and living expenses. My wife is looking for the right job and should be able to earn about the same which will afford us a modest lifestyle.
Most Americans couldn’t cope with the heat, mosquitoes, open sewers, long lines, hellish traffic, and other cultural issues, unless they could afford to live in a luxury neighborhood and have a maid and personal assistant. However, the outlook here in Brazil is very positive. Most young people are investing in their education and advancement. I liken it to stepping back 70 years in our country and being on the verge of a great industrial revolution that I can be a part of. I have decided it is better to be starting at the bottom of the hill, climbing towards the top, then to be at the top and sliding out of control towards the bottom.
If you can afford it, do what my wife and I did, we took a two month “vacation” a couple of years ago, rented a furnished apartment and did a trial “residency” in which we had time to evaluate the pros and cons. When we moved here last month, we were well prepared, knowing what we were getting into, bringing along the necessary items and resources to be able to live relatively comfortably.
If you can master the native language sufficiently (or take an immersion course when you arrive for 6 months), you can often get a job at a language school, or company needing bi-lingual workers or professionals. Best bet is to scour the classifieds online ahead of time so you have something guaranteed when you arrive.
Kenneth:
Australia is the best country in the world to live in. This is the statement of Australians who have been to USA and other countries. It is what USA used to be years ago. It will be a few years before Australia becomes like USA. USA has left its Christian roots and I am afraid there are those who will make sure it never goes back.
AsiaExpat:
Singapore is the best place to live and work. It has a real future and very reasonable taxes. Peaceful, modern, they even speak English (kind of). Bring your best attitude and a necktie, because you have to work and you have to be kind to your neighbors. Who wants to be cloistered nervously behind a wall, anyway?
Bill:
Best places as far as quality of life? Social Democratic countries like Scandanavia- Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark.
If language is a problem Canada would be the closest best choice, then Australia, New Zealand, and for Central America, Costa Rica would be the number one choice for climate, civility, medical care and a beautiful environment.
For most places that provide good quality of life, expect to pay high taxes, which most civilized countries, yours excepted, equate with civilization. I’m afraid you folks are letting your inherent selfishness, ignorance of other cultures, militarism and a “screw you Jack, I’ve got mine” mentality destroy you.
Better than moving, stay there and try to turn things around. You have too much that is still good to lose it all. We’re all hoping-well, your firends are anyway- that you’ll pull out of this before its too late.
Time is running out folks.
Mongoos:
Not all Americans are “ugly Americans.” We are guests in the host country and most expats act as such. I retired in Sept 2009 and plan on living, teaching, and writing in Thailand. I have lived and worked overseas before, so this is nothing new for me. You make do and blend in and stay out of trouble. Leave your attitudes and preconceptions at the door when you check in. Otherwise, you will be creating problems for those of us who wish to live in peace and enjoy the pleasures of a different culture.
James:
There are over 100,000 Americans living in Costa Rica and loving it. Things are getting stronger here everyday and in most schools they teach English for half the day and Spanish for the other. The majority of the people like Americans and if you want to have it shipped here you can get everything here that you can get there. WalMart is the largest retail chain here as well as there.
This week Costa Rica moved ahead of the US in medical care. A huge % of the national income is from Medical Tourism. They are using adult stem cell treatment here to cure MS, Heart Decease, diabetes, Spinal Cord Injuries, Cancer and many other conditions. A good source for getting information on Costa Rica is the Association of Residents of Costa Rica.
They have a seminar once a month that brings in Doctors, Lawyers, Dentist, Shippers, Realtors, Investment Councilors and many other experts to brief you on the pros and cons of moving to Costa Rica. There are many communities here that are all American and the “Culture Shock” is nonexistent. The weather is perfect and they have never had a hurricane.
Bruce:
We moved to the French Riviera 10 years ago when we retired. Cost of living here in Nice is much less than New York or any other major American city. We’re on the sea, a big plus, near Italy, also a big plus, and we enjoy terrific food that we can afford. The medical system in France is incomparable and truly inexpensive compared to the U.S. We calculated our fixed living expenses for the year: it came to 11,000 Euros, or about $15,000 for all our taxes, medical coverage, utilities, condo fees, dentistry, etc. We live in a 2 bedroom top floor condo with a very large terrace and 2 balconies. There’s plenty of money left for travel, dining out, movies, and quick jaunts up to London and Paris for culture and ethnic food (especially London). Don’t regret the move at all.
John:
I moved to Ensenada Mexico in 2000. It was the best thing I ever did for my future because there is no future in America. I now enjoy more freedom than I ever had in the US. Spanish is easy to learn and the people are much more friendly here. There are lots of ex-pats here also. In the coming years the US is going to be the worst place to be. Escape now while you still can.
AmericanInOz:
I am an American that immigrated to Australia in 2001 (after Bush took office). My wife and I didn’t like what we saw coming. Politically, culturally, financially and socially.
When Big Media first started covering the US’s economic problems here in 2008 they drug out the old phrase “When America catches a cold Australia gets a flu”. Two plus years on and this couldn’t be further from the truth. The economy here is going great guns, and demand from Asia and a better government are a good part of the reason.
House prices are having solid gains every year, unemployment is reasonably steady, and the federal reserve is trying to raise interest rates to cool the economy (.25% again today)
To that point, the government here doesn’t subsidise 30 year fixed mortgages the way they do in the US, so they can still manage the economy by slightly manipulating interest rates. The longest you can fix a mortgage for is 5 years, at a very high premium, so most people don’t.
America has become an after thought, if not the laughing stock, of many Australians. It saddens me to see how far everything has fallen over there. I no longer try to defend the US or the American people. The time for real public outrage passed many years ago, and I have not only given up on the government, but also on the people themselves. So many dear family and friends spend their lives watching TV while their freedoms, lifestyle, culture and wealth were/are being destroyed around them. Ignorant and apathetic to the realities of the real world. Living with some strange notion of the past as if it represents the present.
Not all is doom and gloom here. And although it could still come, if it does it will have little, if nothing at all, to do with the problems in America.
I’m an American, and I can’t tell you how badly I want to get out of this country. I want to move to China, but I don’t even have the money to buy food much less a ticket out of here for me and my family. We get foodstamps from the government so we can go buy food, without them we would starve. To be honest, everyone says that America is the strongest country in the world. If so them why are its people suffering. If I could I would get my family out of here to a better future, but its impossable becasue I’m so poor.
I am torn about leaving. On the one hand my ancestors invested a lot in making America what it was. It saddens me enormously to see the sacrifices that my family made down the line result it…this. My grandfather who was a Pearl Harbor pretty much predicted the what was coming before he died about 15 years ago. My father, x-Air Force and now defense contractor sometimes is almost unbearable because he gets so angry at what is happening with the country. Me I’m active with the tea party movement, but unless your average metro-sexual idiot is reigned in and all the side lining small business owners go from groaning to action, things won’t change. Things haven’t gotten uncomfortable enough yet for people to really act, unfortunately things will gradually continue to decline until the frog is fully boiled or there will be a snap all at once and chaos will reign.
I’m not sure I can leave. House, bills, work, no savings, huge medical bill, struggling to keep afloat. I’d have to pretty much say f’ it and let everything go back to the banks, and from what I understand their reach is long. You may not be able to run from your debts in any country that takes Visa or Mastercard. So I’m kind of stuck. But if things appear to be about to really get bad, I’ll take my chances just grabbing my wife, whatever cash and clothes we have in hand, and getting out anyway we can.
One point though, if America goes down, expect the whole world to be affected in ways people don’t think about. Having a hegemon is a pain for countries chaffing under its yoke, but not having one causes instability, power vacuums, and often armed conflicts as new players establish new power boundaries. That will affect everyone on the globe. There are places outside of America that will fair better, but no one on the face of the planet will be untouched.
Guys, where ever you go, please don’t ever move to India, I have made that mistake and regret it. I thought of that country as developing, its no where close to a developing country and like the local Indians say it will always be like that. I would say CANADA is a good choice for the Americans, although you have to send a resume to work at a gas station but still if you are lucky you will find some thing.
I have lived in US for 12 years and I have returned to India. I do not think Americans could live here. For people like me who migrated to US, now its time for come back. I love Amrica and Americans a lot. Its really a great country and I had a great time out there.
I started investing in India from 97 and I do not need to work any more. I am 37 and retired. Indian economy is going strong and next 20 years real growth will be here and China. I am trading both US and Indian market, reason being the time difference does allow me to do that.
I am having great time here!
If I had the money, I would already have moved.
My research shows Uruguay would be my final destination, I just need to win the lottery, which will be difficult since I do not play it.
I figure I can move to Uruguay and live well with $100K or so to start out. Unfortunately, my elderly father believes the economy is great and we are in a recovery, keeping all his money in the stock market. Good bye inheritance!
My destiny a FEMA camp? Time will tell.
please stay out of Asia, fix your own country first. Don’t assume you’re wanted there. Juth, stay in your own country instead of complaining about others. America will be much worse off than the developing world soon.
If you do move to another country, learn the language, don’t expect people to accommodate to you. Alot of americans are ignorant to other cultures.
tell that same thing to everyone that floods america from other countries..my tax dollars pay to give immigrants benefits i cant even have.
they dont learn american culture before they come here..they expect american to bow down to their cultures..hypocrite
Well…aren’t you just sweet. Where are you located? I certainly don’t want to bring my obnoxious, self-serving American ass to your little corner of the world.
You know, that’s a loaded question…a good one, but loaded nevertheless. Why?
Well, how can I be sure that the countries I recommend to you are the right ones?
That’s just it, I CAN’T! NO ONE CAN.
All of us are as different and distinct as night and day and what works for me may or may not work for you. That’s why I scoff at the so-called gurus that praise this country or that one based solely on the UN Human Development Index or investment opportunities or financial profiles in a manila folder. As you mentioned, there are a ton of things far more important to take into consideration.
The 2nd biggest mistake I’ve seen potential expats make is having unrealistic expectations. The 1st biggest by far is something the investment gurus simply ignore outright (and is the main reason why most end up back stateside within 2 years).
My goal is to make sure you move overseas in a LONG-TERM, SUSTAINABLE SUCCESS way without having to jump from country to country wasting time, energy and money. That’s why I teach a system that puts the one person in the world that knows best for you the into decision-making driver’s seat…
.
.
.
YOU.
With the right system and the willingness and ability to take action, anyone can find the perfect expat destination…wherever on Earth that may be.
America is where I will stay. You forget that in comparison to other countries, America is huge. We have enormous open spaces and plenty of water, so you can always find somewhere to live that is safe and survivable.
I’ve got my large house and unpolluted land, lots of trees, year-round water, pets, wild animals, etc. I’ve learned how to live without expensive heat and without buying Chinese crap that falls apart or poisons you. If need be, I could even spin and weave my own clothes. And I have a massive how-to library. And if I stay, I will be able to help my community.
Instead of facing our problems and trying to solve them, too many of you are running away.
If anyone is interested in Costa Rica, we have a place on the Carribbean side, Puerto Viejo in the Limon district. We are trying to sell it since I cannot handle the humidity. It’s a very nice place for a couple or small family in a laid back area of Costa Rica.
http://www.casadedelfines.com
Ann wrote:
‘ann
March 15th, 2010 at 10:39 pm
please stay out of Asia, fix your own country first. Don’t assume you’re wanted there. ‘
Hey, Ann, a lot of Asians who weren’t wanted came to America. Ordinary Americans suffered, but those who were complained were suppressed.
Now what goes around comes around. Karma is not always pleasant.
SO ************* TRUE
I live in the Czech Republic. The cost of living is cheap. Bread costs about a buck, two tops. Eggs are two dollars for a dozen. A pound of ground meat costs about three dollars. A big sack of potatoes costs a buck. A meal in a decent restaurant can easily be had for 10, a beer about a buck and a half. You get the picture. Language is tough, if you don’t know any Slavic tongues. Country is situated nicely, smack in the middle of Europe, with Germany, Austria on the borders and Switzerland not too far either. Hungary is alright, but Poland is still struggling and really not worth ‘sightseeing’. Slovakia has some breathtaking mountains, the Tatras. I love the European way of life, somewhat slower, plus I’m a big soccer fan. Seems everyone in the US is rushed or stressed. After fifteen years here, can’t imagine going back.
I’m in Poland and couldn’t disagree more, been here for three years. It’s an absolutely breath taking place – mountains, sea, great lake area nominated last year to become one of the wonders of the world, the last primordial forest in the EU, great social system, great schooling for my kids and nice healthcare… language – toughest in the world, but I’ve met people here who after living here just few years manage, so not so bad after all. Plenty of investment opportunities. Not for everyone though… cultural differences are huge, but that’s what I enjoy about it most.
Ann –
I’ll go anywhere I damn well please.
And by the way – “alot” is not “a lot”, ie: I will not “alot” another ounce of time to your comment because I have “a lot” to do.
And also – it’s America, not america. And also again, you’re likely referring to United States citizens correct? “Americans” can be found from the northern coast of Alaska to the southern tip of Chile.
A non-ignorant “American”.
I’ve lived in Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and spent some time in Australia and Thailand.
While Australia and Thailand would be the best picks of the four to live permanently, I am now learning all I can of the central and south American countries. They seem to be getting the highest recommendations from all the people I’ve spoken to that live there.
Whatever you do don’t come to Thailand. There are too many DUHmerican’ts here already!!!!!!
Hey bosunj, Piss off. If I wanted to go to Thailand, I would. Your remark about Americans being stupid shows your mentality. What a dumb shit. This country has done in just over 300 years, more than the world has done in thousands.
Unfortunately, it is not Americans, but the elitist jackasses who have made this country what it is. Unfortunately, it will fall just like every other country. Including Thailand.
In not so long, we will all experience the wrath of the wealthy, unmoral, pieces of ********* that want their world government. May they all burn in hell.
As an Australian who has lived around the world, I have to agree with the comments about it being a decent place to live. Strong economy, circa 5% unemployment, fantastic place to raise children, beautiful scenery, very advanced cities (Sydney is the largest with 4.2m people, followed by Melbourne with 3.8m) but tranquil beach and country regions. Pretty much something for everyone… This country is massive – equivalent to the USA or Europe in size
Not sure about the doomsday issues for the world – we’ve confronted them before and survived (I don’t see a WW2 on the horizon and the US rebuilt itself after the Great Depression).
As a nation of immigrants, much like the US, the get on and do it attitude is part of our national psyche. When we were first colonised we were that much more isolated than even the US from the UK, so our founding fathers really had to make do with what was on hand.
However, we don’t like loud-mouthed, holier-than-thou people.
Welcome to have a look around…
http://www.australia.com/index.aspx
It would not be a good idea for you people to try to move to NZ. Residents of cowardly countries that torture prisoners and murder Pakistani children by remote control are not exactly admired here.
haha..wow..look what the dutch did when they took over Australia and NZ…we have to defend ourselves against muslims who want to destroy America by any means. Those poor tortured prisoners are pieces of crap that deserve what they get..ask the victims of 9/11
Ivan – You must be one of those cool, relaxed, intelligent New Zealanders we all exactly admire so much.
I moved to Costa Rica five years ago due to the general decline I saw coming in the U.S. Costa Rica has the strongest middle class in Central America, the lowest crime rate, and — most importantly — a history of peace without a military. The health care system is not perfect, but is light years beyond the U.S. For those who are looking for a self-sufficient lifestyle, Costa Rica is still very locally driven where every community is self supporting. Perfect year-round climate, and only 5 hours flight from most U.S. cities. I have started a relocation and tourism business here, so if anyone needs more information, feel free to contact me at http://www.ameuropeservices.com
Well since Obama is 10 X worst then Bush it looks like I need to get going. The Democrat party is so corrupt and 10 X worst than Republicans. Who is going to pay for the $14 Trillion dollar debt? Not me.
Austrialia looks like the best bet for me. Just hoping Texas or Wyoming secedes soon.
What ann said is quite right. Why should countries welcome you to their land when you’ve perfectly screwed up your own?
Oh sure, you’ll tell me it’s the elites that did it, and that you’re poor, and that you can’t do anything about it. That’s total BS and you know it.
If you are still so mindlessly, cruelly indifferent to what you to do the world by walking into the voting booth and pulling the lever for bloodthirsty maniac #1 (republican) or bloodthirsty maniac #2 (democrat) instead of standing up and doing what is right, well, I wouldn’t want you in my country either.
china is a horrible cruel commie country, ann is wrong
how about 1st world Berlin Germany…..low rents and the best artists scene anywhere in the world….i am an ashamed american….sad how the corrupt pols did this to us.
Hey Ivan, most of us that want to leave the U.S. do not support the endless wars and the murder of innocents, please do not lump us all together just because we live here. I was born American, it’s not something I chose.
I have friends in El Salvador and Colombia that I plan to visit and I may move to one of those, but I find Russia fascinating also.
my grandma fled germany during the switch from nazi to ussr in her region she said during the nazi occupation the horror stories of seein jewish families rounded up and not bein able to do anything not bein able to trust anyone she said she said that after america beat the nazis they celebrating with joy only to find out that the ussr was takin over she hated feeling unsafe uncertain so she and my grandpa snuck here to america everything was ok she felt safe they ran a bakery then vietnam came they forced her children to go fight in vietnam they all lived but came back had health and mental problems agent orange she lived to be 103 my grandpa died in the 80s she watched all her sons die from that agent orange stuff as i grew up she always told me to save my money and move to australia her sister moved there after germany she loved if there. my grandma died in 2000 she said if war was to happen to just leave i have a son now just starting school and i think i can provide him a better life if we go to where my distant cousins live in australia i found a few on fb explained how bad our history has been since the family moved to the united states i really like how she describes it out of the loop away from all the caos and americans here are so adicted to usless things materials i was raised on that when you die you can take that stuff with you. americans will protest corp greed meanwhile buy iphones and feed it. so i will be moving away to from here. i can speak 2 languages german and american. i have saved up for 5 years just so i can do this hopefully austrlia will except me even though i was born in america nothing good has happen i need to seek a new begin not for me but my son and my distant family welcomes me to austrlia with open arms so yes you can hate americans. and yes jeremiah you guys are all respnsible i have no debt what so ever and i raise a child by myself through not bein adicted to things i dont need i have saved up just to go away. all you americans are to blame you are all so greedy so wastful alwayslook for a handout. the greatest day will be when i am out of here even if aussies dont like me it can not compare to the hell we went through when my family moved here. i belong with my grandma would be proud of me im sure that i saved money never got in debt. ive never voted because i dont like this democrat republican stuff the all do the same thing they think just for themself “a good leader will be a servant to his followers” quote from the lord jesus christ
Whoa there! Those of us who wish we could leave aren’t responsible for the state of the US, it’s people like Tera and Octaviameister above who sit around complaining someone else won’t pay their way instead of putting in the sweat equity to get where they want to go.
There is no place for us to go. America was IT: founded and made great by folks who fled spiritual, financial, and political oppression everywhere else in the World so they could determine their destiny HERE. No place but America can provide what Obama refugees are looking for.
Who’s up for off-world?
wacky pete: I vote, but I have never belonged to either of our hated main parties (and I’m not a fake “independent”) nor have I voted for them. In most countries where I look like the natives, I’m often mistaken for one.
What about those of us that are not like the rest of our kind? Some of us cannot help where we were born.
Would any country accept refugees like me?
Here I go:
South Brazil is mild weather, European immigrant descendants, growing industry, growing revenues, peacefulness and friendlyness, and …
… no mosquitos, no Amazonic heat !
Now what goes around comes around. Karma is not always pleasant…..
That’s exactly why we’re contemplating leaving this place, america’s karma is comming back to bite her in the ass.
I just wanted to express that if any americans believe that australia will be imune to economic collapse, think again. Do your research. I noted the comments made by one U.S. expat here that our economy is “going gangbusters 2 years down the track”. I find that statement very simplistic and naive. We are being held together by government intervention, mineral export, and consumer ignorance. That can all change dramaticaly. If our interest rates rise greatly, which they may, we can expect a lot of stress. Public debt (ei: credit card and mortgage)has passed one trillion dollars. For our small population, this is very worrying. Generaly, it is true that if the U.S. catches cold, we go down. We are only experianceing a delay. Nothing more.
sharonsj …. I love and support your comment!
Hi, I lived in the US for 23 years, and in 2005 picked up and left for New Zealand. Lived there for 3 years before moving to Malaysia for further studies (Ph.D. in Islamic Finance). I am longing to return to New Zealand – great place and good people with respect for alternative views.
I’ve voted! Made it out of the USA. Didn’t have much money, have 5 children, and don’t know the language. The good news is we are learning the native tongue at a torrid pace. Education system is stellar, and loving life. We still have the option to go back, but for now, I’m tired of it all. I tried to ignore it on a national level and just get involved with it locally. It found its way into my everyday life through my kids, the stores, the jobs… Enough. Don’t regret the choice. One piece of advice: If you make up your mind, don’t worry about the details, just push as hard as you can to get there. People are going to discourage you, that is because they have no courage themselves. Just figured out what the phase means “see ya, wouldn’t want to be ya”
you are an overpopulator, you are arrogant to think you needed to spread your seed 5times..i wonder how much of other people hard earned money you used to raise your 5 kids
Um, Voted? Just curious… where did you move your family to? Don’t you think it would have been been helpful to include that little bit of information? ;\
Even if I may be going off topic but are there any Americans who forsaken and plan to forsake the U.S. all because they’re bored with American culture or lifestyle and therefore want to experience a different type of culture and lifestyle? Also have some Americans left or plan to leave the U.S. because they feel that the U.S. is too large area wise and in fact is it possible that some Americans wonder what’s the point of there being 50 states when they don’t feel like 50 individual nations? I’m curious to know what are your thoughts ?
Although I myself have not really made plans to leave Canada(my country) for the U.S. the fact is I overall enjoy visiting the U.S.(usually it’s Minnesota we visit since I have a sister and her family residing there),though it’s a matter of conjecture but I appreciate Canada being overall culturally similar to the States and finally don’t anyone take this the wrong way but for the most part I’m only surprised that there are Americans who are happier living outside their birth-land but then again wherever they choose to live is their decision.
Canuck Man,
I am considering leaving this hellhole cuz I cannot even recognize it as being America anymore! This country is the entire globe’s dumping ground for people who have no interest in supporting themselves; so, they move here & who gets to prop them up? The “middle class” of America — who, btw, does not even exist anymore thanks to bleeding us dry by Bush & now Obama. Also tired of catering to “specialty groups” of race/religion. Sick of folks living here for 30 years & can’t (or won’t)speak 1 word of English. Tired of being bled dry & seeing “poor” people buy steak with their govt free card while I buy cheap hamburger. Sick of so many folks paying ZERO taxes, while I get reamed. Tired of being barbecued by every politician (know matter that you vote them out at every opportunity). Tired of the United States of the Corporate Whore, which is the REAL name of this country now. Corporations call the tune; the public gets hosed. Dude, Canada is not anywhere near this hellhole of a mess. And I didn’t even mention the crime!!!
We pondered upon the idea of leaving America. But why? Did we not believe in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights? Is that not why this land accepted those seeking escape from religious persecutions?
We may have been misled into believing in certain ideas that contained bad intent and conspired by certain groups of people. But we are so pleased to see a LOT of Americans waking-up to the Real Truth.
We came to this country with a dream to become Americans, not US Citizens. There is a difference, you see. Those who do not accept the system have only one choice and that is non-compliance. Research “96 is your fix.” It will do you very good to face your fears and understand the scope of the actual worldly events.
Where ever you go, you will face different set of problems. Some of them you will tackle. But what truly will matter are the reasons why you left. If that was fear – it will chase you anywhere you go. You and I know it.
Peace…
oh come on..if you cant get a job in usa forget it..you cant get a job anywhere!
I left NY around 8 years ago,i now live in Istanbul, Turkey,Warm people, excellent infrastructure, thriving businesses, Good weather, and wonderful food.
It was my best decision ever and i am planning to live here for the next 25 years. One major problem that can face you is to find a job and to learn the language.
Stay where you are, and move to different cities in USA. You think US is bad? Try other countries, at least there is an affordable life in USA!
I am moving to Canada and hopefully to USA from Australia. Life in Australia is beyond imagination how expensive it is, it is about 2 to 3 times more expensive than USA.
Asia is very expensive, never even dream about owing even an apartment there.
I am a single mother that wants to give my child the best life he can have. And I know in my heart that it’s not in the US. I speak nine languages, have a BS in sciences, and a BS in Psychology, and I am still having trouble finding a job over seas. I am still in school pushing for my master’s in hopes that my degrees will pay off. My issue is that you have to have a job in the country you want to move to before they will give you a work visa, but no jobs will hire you without the work visa. It’s a catch 22, really. Well, good luck to all, and maybe we will cross paths in another country one day and share our experiences!
Interesting. A lot
of vitriol about Americans…
Here’s a couple of points for you folks out there that are (apparently) so full of hate for these Americans who want to leave:
1) They (likely) agree with you as to the behavior of the US abroad. Seeing as how they want to LEAVE the US, it stands to reason that they are not amongst the Americans who will yell at you about how America is the “Best” country in the world. They just might believe exactly as you do, and may even feel shame for having had these things done in their name.
2) Individual Americans have no more power over their government than any other individuals. Prison is appealing to no one, and our “freedoms” have been undermined. Something like 300,000 people disappear in the US each year. Sure some of them are old people or children who wander off – but we all (US citizens) secretly know that if we found the right video or bit of paper we too would vanish. Do not let the US regime deceive you as effectively as it has us – the US is not a democratic republic. Instead (if coolly evaluated) we are far more along the lines of a corporatist fascism.
3) Some of us have voted against the Republicrats – but to no avail. They have won the war of media and there isn’t much we can do aside from running for cover (in one shape or another) or submitting our children to the pain brought upon us by the cowards, idiots, etc. We tried. We fought. We failed. We were sorely outnumbered. You would hold that against us?
4) We are not asking for charity. No one on this post has asked for anything for free. We are the builders and thinkers – the visionaries – who seek to leave at this point. Yes: when the ship of the US slips at last under the waves there will be vast throng awash and seeking refuge. That throng will consist of the same blind oafs that sunk their own boat, and I can’t blame you for not wanting them. I surely don’t. But us? We who tried to stop the ship from sinking, we who see the beams splitting. We are not seeking a handout, but peace. We are the people you DO want.
Also:
(To the “Love it or leave it” fellows): Well – Here you go. I stopped loving it around the time I learned to read. Can you read?
When atrocities are committed the force that commits those atrocities is rightfully hated by all good men. It is an atrocity to imprison so many for so little. It is an atrocity to send so many to face death (and to cause it) on the basis of false evidence – and even more egregious to continue (and even redouble) the effort when the fraudulent nature of the evidence is so clearly known. It is an atrocity to bankrupt the peaceful and wise to finance warmongers and the foolish. It is an atrocity to force a man to pay the thief that stole from him.
And what force does this? What evil on earth is there that does all these things? Yeah… You love that?
I love this LAND, I love SOME of these people, I love the ideas that the word “freedom” brings to mind – but this empire? Hell no. If you had any sense, you’d be thinking about where to leave to as well.
I told anyone who would listen (and no one did) back in 2002 to get their Plan B together and get the Hell out of the US. Everyone looked at me like I was crazy.
I told people the US was headed for all kinds of disasters, mostly of the political and economic kind and no one seemed to care. I saw it all coming and got out of the US back in 2003 while the getting was still good.
Now, these same people I tried to warn are stuck in the very train wreck I saw coming and probably couldn’t get out now even if they wanted to.
If leaving the US appeals to you, then do whatever you have to do to get out while you still can. Learn everything you can from the Internet, take calculated risks and find someplace to go before it’s really too late. I fear that time may have already come…
Ive been looking into many different countries ive been given a couple invites to various muay thai camps around the world looks like Thailand is where i will end up as Doc Thailand is probably the best Muay Thai instructor in the world coupled with an amazing country.
and to all the people saying stay out of our country and all that BS.. why should where you were born dictate where you live or how you spend your life?
Funny i used to see a huge issue with illegal immigration in the US but ya know they can have it.
You Americans can be so naive!
Do you really think you are safe anywhere?
When all hell breaks loose in these countries (and it will worldwide) who do you think the people will target?
Right!
With no resources, the police will be minimal and you ( Americans) will be targeted first.
Best to stay and “fight like crazy” for your own country.
USA is the LAST bastion of freedom on the planet.
All these people touting other countries know very well how limited their freedoms are.
hahaha, the last bastion of freedom? Are you crazy?
Listen up you crybabies; I came to America a very long time ago after the Hungarian Upraising. I wanted nothing but a chance to be a free man in a free country and with nothing, no language, no money, no skills, I made a good life in America but I had to work very hard and do without for a number of years.
America is a great place to live for all those who are willing to work hard and learn. An Armenian friend of mine told me not that long ago that in America only people who do not succeed are those who do not try.
very true, but democrats have created a welfare lazy country that is taking from the hard working and giving to the people who wont work. obama is turning america into a communist hell hole.
I have lived in America my whole life and I cannot take the corporate greed anymore that’s literally running the entire country, and the lack of healthcare. “Istvan”, people who come here with nothing and make “something” of themselves isn’t done without a huge amount of greed, which I’m assuming you’re all about basing off of your comment. To some people, like me, money isn’t everything. I prefer to live my life without spending 60 hours a week at work, miserable, just for the money and hoping for a good retirement. You people are the ignorant jackoff’s of the country.
Take a look at every single bank or hospital. None of those corporations are interested in anything else but money, which is why they grew from a small-town company into the huge corporations today. None of them care about the people, same as the Government.
As soon as a politician smartens up and decides to fight against this greed, what happens? They’re talked bad about in the “news” (who are also paid off) to the point all the citizens are against doing the just thing, then the politician is paid off by the very corporations their trying to fight. With that amount of greed and corrupt actions, what is any ordinary citizen supposed to do? All of the propaganda, fake news, and corrupt politicians keep the citizens at bay, and that’s how it’ll always stay. So I’m moving. I’m sick of being treated like dirt, living in a shit house, can’t find a job and seeing my family without good healthcare. Meanwhile, I’m seeing every immigrant here who can hardly speak English with a brand new 2 story house and a BMW because the Government prefers to give them money and leave the rest to rot.
I read all your posts. I never understood why some Americans would want to take such a drastic step like moving to another country. Not me! I love the USA and yes we have some problems but we are a huge country with many places that are different from eachother. The great thing here is you can move from one state to another and it can be totally different. I have lived in many states and small cities in the US that are peaceful, beautiful and make you feel like you are in the 1960′s (only with high technology and good infrastructure):) If you think it is expensive then sell your big mansion and live cheaper in a small home, cottage or condo and don’t buy so much “junk”. Me..I would not want to live somewhere where I am the “outsider” foreigner looking at the locals. Most people don’t like Americans anyway and I frankly would rather stay somewhere where I don’t have to defend my nationality or get into arguments about politics. I love America and I don’t care…that’s it simple end-of-argument, I will pay my high taxes, work and support this country and rebuild it here and the mess we are in. I love our mountains, our oceans, our cities (good or bad), i love our history, our sacrifices and tears and our ignorance too. I love our forgiveness and our work ethic. yes we have some stupid people, but we have all types of people from many different countries who call this great nation home. Move from this beautiful and annoying USA. NO WAY…I love it too much. Ex-pat..not me, my dogs love it here too (they are bilingual Spanish and English too
. We watch foreign films and if we want to travel we can hop on an airplane and “visit” the different countries. Live there, no way Jose. Grass is always greener? Just go to Vermont, Kentucky, North Carolina, the forests in the northwest USA. Asia..nope, Australia..nope, South America..nope, Eastern Europe..nope, not for me and doggies..USA YES AW YES. Home Sweet Home.
Nobody hates Americans, nobody will bore you with discussions on politics and policies. They’ll ask you why you chose to leave, but that’s the extent of it. These are just some seriously misguided ideas sold to you by the mainstream media.
I have read most of the posts. My experience is that Nepal would be best if the peace deal is complete over the year.
peoples there are always friendly and receptive to the peoples from Europe, America and Australia. The money value to the Nepalese rupee is great ! US $ 1: NPR 76 You can enjoy with any trade, business or profesion. Great country in nature: the land of Mt. Everest(top of the world)
Besides Canada, and Australia, what countires could I move to that would have the technical infrastructure to allow me to trade stocks. That’s hos I make money now, and Costa Rica is enticing, but not if I couldn’t access technically efficient trading sites that would allow me to do technical analysis and trade electronically. I like Uruguay too, though I don’t speak spanish now. I know a little, and am also able to pick up languages pretty well.
America is still the greatest country on the planet, unfortunately, most Americans have bought into the social system and now cannot do anything without a handout. Obama is a shit brain, communist, prick. But so are the past 7-10 presidents. They all buy into the world system and will screw America and sell out American citizens including their own mothers for a buck. It is more than corporate America, it is the same organizations that created the Federal Reserve, IRS, etc. The Illuminati’s and such. It is to late now, we have been to quiet to long, and this Great Nation will fall. I will enjoy life here until I die, and I hope I die taking out a few of the bastards who have destroyed our nation. WE once were a Godly, free nation, now God will lift his hand of protection from us, and I those who think they are above the rest of us will burn in hell.
I just read in the news that American citizens can now be legally detained as “terror suspects” without trial on US soil. Two wars that the bulk of the population opposes with no sign of ceasing, others on the horizon popping off. 1.3 trillion in tax cuts to education and healthcare by the end of the year? I didn’t VOTE for any of that. We get two choices for president and regardless who we pick he’s going to carry on as the last one. Anyone who isn’t an American: Your idea of how things operate here are lies. Think Nazi Germany. Got it? Good. Those that are American and deny these things: You’re the reason why I plan on getting my family out of this place before I’m murdered in front of them while the rest of my family cheers it on. All because people like me with voices are a threat to the global dominion of the UN and it’s warhorse, the USA.
exactly why we left…
Zambia is a sparsely populated English speaking country without big brother, consumerism, pollution, racism. The coming economic collapse will be accompanied or followed by a big war in the northern hemisphere and with it more state suppression of all rights.
Thank God I live with my Philippine wife and new baby son here on the island of Mindanao. I do not miss much of anything in the USA, except the food. I feel more free and relaxed here than in “the land of the free and home of the brave”. No more government interference in my life. Just live it and be happy. No hassels! The USA is a mess now and greatly deteriorated in so many ways. Its hard to tell witch is worse, the arrogent, stupid, brainwashed people in general, or all the levels of government and the endless unneeded rules regulations and laws. Its really a dangerous left wing socialist police state over there, and anyone who does not act like a dummed down, placid mouse, is in danger. Drugs, crime, economic, and social, moral, decline, and discord and disunited fragmented society are evident. Business intrests have sold out the country and bankrupted it. Endless series of usless wars…. If I move again it’s to New Zealand or Australia.
I do not plan to help anyone. I can help to restore the economy. But, I won’t. You deserve it. Because of such abuses by the cops, gay marriage and proposition 8, and Mormons and Mormons cannot restore the economy because poverty will come sooner or later that they will beg God to help them. I will not hear their cries nor I will return my hand to them neither I will give them bread and water nor food. I will treat you as you have treated me. As the Lord saith,vengeance is mine. Because of your pride and racism, I will never help you. Let the poverty eat you up and I will not hear your cries and your pleas and even the cops shall come to poverty and become homeless. Because it shall come to pass. Even my heart breaks into pieces I will not give my eyes to tears and even I love you and feel so much compassion, I will not open my hand to you. Because it is not good to be so much good with you. I am tired to be so much good. I want to move on and forget about you. You have not been good with me. You have ignored me when I was there, you passed by and you never were there for me. You were given to drugs, alcohol, sex, crimes, and no one were with me. Now, pay your price and you will pay your own doom. Because you deserve it.
It is too late! Do not come to pray in the synagogues and in the churches and I will not help you and the Lord will not hear your cries and nor he will help you. I am angry with you. It is too late. I will not accept your offerings and your songs and nor of your tithing. It is too late. Go and have fun without me and be happy and die with poverty. I will not help you even my heart tear part into pieces. I will never help you. The time shall come that you shall regret because you do not know who I am. It is not my obligation to tell you who I am. You do not deserve to know it. Because you will never forgive yourself.
I think we are getting off the subject here, the question is where is a good place to move to, i am a parent with a 14 year old, i do not wish my child to pay the Obama bills. Where is a easy to immigrate to, good place to live without the American cops stopping me every time i turn around for a bad tailight?
Here in Costa Rica for 6yrs now, saw what was coming.
Have an opportunity for those wanting to get out check out our ad http://www.costaricaraffle.com
Hello all, I am a 27 year old young man and i have a few things to say as humble as possible. I am not perfect nor ever will be and I’m looking for some wise advise from those who may be more experienced in life than myself. I have inherited about 100k and i am not proud of this but i have to make a decision. I am not looking to retire rich and i want to work, even if only for charity. What bothers me is i feel guilty when my income is taxed and supports a corrupt government that I don’t want to support but have no choice in the matter. The only budget cuts i see happening in local papers is in the school system and this is disturbing. I just want to move somewhere that doesn’t focus so much on military power and control. I only speak English but I’m willing to start taking classes and learning another language if it is necessary. I want a simple lifestyle without big brother telling me what i can and cant do, and if i pay taxes i want to feel proud that it is supporting the people and not a select few warmongers. (No offense to those brave souls in the military, just towards the ones behind the curtain running the show). What country could i legally move to if i wanted to make a positive impact on society? I just cant support big brother anymore, i feel morally obligated to move. I appreciate any criticism and advise because I’m still so young and really don’t have much family or guidance. Please help and thanks so much
hey justin i feel the same email me we can chat
i am in south fla, 48 white male
i think 9/11 has ruined the usa for a long time. it’s a prison. 25% of prisoners in the world are in the ysa.
Best will be Thailand. We are us citizan and been Thailand too long. People are very kind and all American stuff is available. Every thing fine and if you loke travelling all coutries are around. Lots of people from all around the world moving here. All fresh fruit and vegetable. Every thing like USA and you don’t die in nursing home. Move fast. Phuket and Chaigmai is best places. Outside Bangkok too. BKK is best airport. Cabs are cheap about one to two dollar. You don’t need car also.
Kinda angry aren’t we all? The question is about what? Someone doesn’t want people from the Americas to move to their country because it is SUCH a great place. Why not move here? If it’s as advanced and free as you say, come on over. Legally, please.
As for not wanting people to move to your country. Okay. That’s fine, but make sure that no one from yours comes to mine. If that’s the case, then let’s all just close the boarders and get back to basics. My father lost his job because they moved the plant to China. My grandfather was laid off because they hired an illegal immigrant to do his job at a quarter of the wages. You know what they did? They got new jobs. They worked harder for less, and you know what they have now? My grandfather owns a farm. My father and my mother work 12-14 hours 7 days a week to raise their three children, which they thought they could afford, when my father had a good paying job.
Those who are going to move to your country are the ones that have the ability to do as such as well as the drive. You’re nto going to get the welfare babies or the low income/ghetto families. Why not? Because they cannot even afford to feed themselves and cloth their children. If it’s too hard to get a job, how are they ever going to jump through the hoops required to move to a different country? The answer is that they are not.
I feel like perhaps everyone here assumed that by Americans it meant “United States Citizens who want a way out from under their bills and to be given a hand out”. People moved here didn’t they? So why can’t they move anywhere else? Long and short of my opinion: the United States is an ok place to live. Good people (for the most part). Some beautiful country side. Booming cities. The problem is the same as can be found anywhere. The greedy and corupt rise to the top. You can fight for it, die for it, be imprisoned for it, or you can run from it.
You follow Rafiki, he knows the way.