RELO Roundtable…a gathering place

Ever think of throwing caution to the wind, arranging a passport, packing your bags and moving outside of your familiar comfort zone in the U.S.?  If so, where would you relocate to and what would you do when you got there? More importantly -  why would you want to leave?

In today’s worldwide economy, more and more single and family households are wrapping their arms around and living the ‘expat’ experience. An expatriate (or expat for short) are those who temporarily or permanently adopt a residence in a country and culture other than that of their original place of birth, upbringing or legal residence.

Traditionally expats have a reputation as high-energy risk takers – people whose sense of artistic passions, worldly adventure and pursuit of wealth characterize their need to romp around globe in search of a better quality of life.

Unfortunately, the reality of today’s marketplace has squelched many of the exciting and romantic notions about moving abroad. Now most who willingly undertake the experience do so to pursue a job.

Recently HSBC Bank International released their second annual Expat Explorer Survey – the largest ever global independent summary of expat findings and attitudes.

This comprehensive 34-page report provides a unique insight into the expat experience by comparing how the quality of life differs across the globe by tabulating the input from 3100 respondents who were polled worldwide. For the survey, an expatriate is defined as someone over the age of 18 years old who is currently living away from their home country (country of origin).

Some of the quality issues discussed include: accommodations, healthcare, hobbies, food, education/childcare, transport, family life, working hours, and entertainment.

There were two important highlights that emerged in this year's survey result\s. 

• Expats generally enjoy a better quality of life
• High salary doesn't always mean a high quality of life

Which country attracts the most vagabond interest? Our good neighbor to the north – Canada! Australia and Thailand rank 2nd and 3rd respectively.

If the prospect of moving abroad tickles your interest, visit the HSBC website or download a copy of their 2009 Expat Experience Survey here before starting your relocation plans.

Related Articles:

2008 Expat Explorer Survey
Where to Live Abroad for a Better Life