So, you’ve finally decided to take the plunge and leave the West behind. Maybe you’re tired of the grind, maybe you’re looking for something different, or maybe you just want a fresh start in a place where the air doesn’t smell like stress. Whatever your reason, here’s the ultra-simple guide to making it happen. For some, this might be basic, but for a lot of people, the idea of leaving everything they know for an adventure abroad can feel daunting. Let’s break it down into five easy steps.
1. Research Where You’d Like to Go
Alright, first things first—where are you headed? This step is more than just picking a country on a whim. You need to dive into some serious research to figure out where you’d thrive best. Different cities have different vibes, and what works for one person might not work for another.
Consider the basics:
- Culture: Is it welcoming to foreigners? Do people speak English, or will you need to learn a new language? If you’re not into language barriers, maybe a city with a strong expat community is for you.
- Cost of Living: This is crucial. Some places will make your dollars (or whatever currency you’re rocking) stretch much further than others. Use sites like Numbeo or Expatistan to compare costs.
- Climate: Are you a sunshine-chasing, beach-loving soul, or are you all about that cool European winter? Some places, like Southeast Asia or Latin America, offer year-round warmth, while others, like Eastern Europe, might leave you freezing half the year.
- Visa Requirements: Not all countries roll out the welcome mat for long-term stays. Do some digging into visa options, whether it’s a tourist visa, working holiday visa, or a more permanent residency option.
Pro tip: Our City Reviews are a great resource to help you find out where you’d fit in the best. These reviews provide insider knowledge from people who’ve lived there—so you get the good, the bad, and the quirky about each city.
2. Save Money (And Stop Living Like a Tourist)
Money, money, money. This is the hard truth: you’re going to need some funds to get going. Whether you’re hustling a low-paying job or you’ve got a comfy salary, you’ll want to set aside some serious cash before you make your move.
Here’s how to save more effectively:
- Cut out the unnecessary expenses: That $5 latte every day? Gone. Takeout dinners? Gone. Fun weekends out? Unless they’re literally life-changing, gone.
- Embrace minimalism: Do you really need all that stuff? You’re about to embark on a new life—chances are, you don’t need half of it. Sell or donate whatever you can.
- Pick up extra income: Start a side gig—whether it’s freelancing, driving for Uber, or selling some of your unused items. Every extra dollar counts.
- Avoid the lifestyle inflation trap: If you’re making more money than usual, don’t automatically spend it on frivolous luxuries. Put it aside for your trip instead.
This might sound harsh, but the sacrifices you make now—skipping the fancy dinners, binge-watching Netflix instead of partying—will pay off in the long run. More money means less stress when you’re living abroad.
3. Book Your Travel and Accommodation
Alright, you’ve got the money saved. Now it’s time to book your flight and accommodation. Here’s where the magic happens:
- Flights: Use a flight search engine like Google Flights—it’s fast, intuitive, and often shows the best deals. Aim to book 3-6 months in advance for Airbnb and 2-3 months for flights to score the best prices. If you can’t stand tight connections or long layovers, filter for direct flights.
- Checked baggage: Heads up—when booking flights, check whether the price includes checked baggage. It’s often cheaper to pay for this ahead of time than at the airport. And don’t go over the weight limit! You’ll end up paying crazy fees. Pro tip: buy a portable luggage scale for about $10. It’ll save you from last-minute panic at the airport.
- Airbnb: Book 3-6 months ahead, especially if you’re traveling during high season. Consider the neighborhood’s proximity to amenities, nightlife, and transport links. Don’t be afraid to haggle with hosts for discounts on longer stays, and always check reviews before pulling the trigger. You don’t want any surprises.
Lastly, get a sense of how to get from the airport to your Airbnb. Many places have public transport, but if you’re in a place where Uber is widely used, be sure to have the app installed.
4. Network with Expats and Fellow Travelers
You’re about to step into the unknown, and while that can be exhilarating, it can also be lonely. So, start networking before you go.
Here’s how to build your support network:
- Join expat groups online: Whether it’s Facebook groups, Reddit communities, or niche travel forums, these spaces are full of people who’ve been where you’re going. They can give you tips on everything from finding housing to staying safe in the city.
- Find fellow nomads: There are tons of people out there doing exactly what you’re doing. You may even make some lifelong friends who are also escaping the grind. Many people are eager to connect—start conversations with others who are going to the same place.
- Meetups and events: Once you land, hit up local expat meetups, networking events, and co-working spaces. These are perfect spots to meet like-minded people and settle in faster.
And if you’re worried about going solo? Don’t. There are thousands of people doing the exact same thing. You’re not alone.
5. Go!
It’s time. You’ve done the research, saved your cash, booked your flight, and lined up some new friends. Now, it’s time to pull the trigger.
It’s normal to feel a little nervous, but remember: everyone who’s done this has been where you are now. You’ll land, get your bearings, and realize—this is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Your hard work will pay off as soon as you step foot in your new life.
You’ll soon find that the decision to leave the West was one of the best choices you’ve ever made. The freedom, the adventure, and the life-changing experiences await. The best part? You’re just getting started.
Final Thoughts: You Can Do This
You’ve got all the tools you need to leave the West behind. It might seem overwhelming at first, but as you take each step, it becomes clearer. By researching your destination, saving money, booking your travel, connecting with others, and finally—just going—you’re setting yourself up for success.
The world is vast, and it’s waiting for you. So, stop overthinking and start living.
