Expat guides for cities around the world

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Searching for that perfect foreign city to call your next home can be daunting, let alone moving there! Get an accurate picture of daily life in cities around the world with our lifestyle guides, each written by an expat currently living and working there. From logistical details to larger culture, we cover it all, so you don’t have to.

Check out our expat guides to Africa

An Expat's Guide to Living in Cape Town
With incredible nature, great food, and plenty to do, see what it's really like living in Cape Town. Get the pros and the cons from a German expat.
An Expat Guide to Living in Kigali, Rwanda
Here I am to tell you why I love living in Kigali, Rwanda and you will, too. These are the top things you need to know before moving to Rwanda.
How You Can Get a Work Visa for South Africa
See how you can move abroad to Cape Town, South Africa! Find out what it takes to get a work visa and settle into expat life in South Africa.

Check out our expat guides to Living in the Americas

A Beginner's Guide to Living in Cancun
Dream of moving to the Yucatan Peninsula? See what it's like living in Cancun and if there's more to this coastal city than just a tourist hotspot.
7 Best Places to Live in the Yucatan Peninsula
Dream of sandy beaches, colonial towns, and friendly locals? Learn about the best places to live in the Yucatan Peninsula to find your home abroad.
6 Best Places to Live in Latin America (2024)
Planning to move to Central or South America but can't decide where? These are the 6 best places to live in Latin America for expats.
5 Best Places to Live in Panama
Planning to move to Panama? This country is more vast than just Panama City and stunning nature. Get the scoop on the best places to live in Panama.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Havana, Cuba
Itching for a unique lifestyle where no 2 days will be the same? See what it's like living in Havana, Cuba to see if this Caribbean island nation is for you.
4 Best Places to Live in Ecuador
Can't decide where to live in Ecuador? After 2.5 years living in Ecuador, let me help by sharing with you my vote for the 4 best places to live in Ecuador.
An Expat’s Guide to Living in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Interested in moving to South America? See what it's really like living in Buenos Aires from someone who lived in the city for 7 years.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
There's a reason Playa del Carmen is so popular with expats. See what it's really like living in Playa del Carmen to know if it's your spot in Mexico, too.
Mexico City Neighborhoods: Where to Stay
Planning a move to Mexico City? In this big city, you'll 1st need to decide where to move. These are the best 10 neighborhoods in Mexico City to call home.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Houston
An underrated gem in the US, Houston has been a great home abroad. See what living in Houston is really like and if you'll love it as much as I have.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Guadalajara
Itching for a more local experience in Mexico? See what it's like living in gritty yet charming Guadalajara to see if this city is your perfect fit.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Mexico City
Living in Mexico City has been better than I ever expected. Get the insider scoop on living in Mexico City to see if it's your haven, too.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Brasilia
Thinking about moving to Brazil? See what it's like living in Brasilia to see if the Brazilian capital city is the right home about for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in New York City
See what life in the Big Apple is really like for female expats. In this guide on living in New York City, you'll get all of your questions answered.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Banff
From beautiful nature to a buzzing downtown, see what it’s really like living in Banff and if this should be the home abroad for you.
An Expat Guide to Living in Merida, Mexico 
Living in Merida means a vibrant city life, a big expat community, and of course, a welcoming Mexican culture. But, is it this the city abroad for you?
An Expat's Guide to Living in Cusco, Peru
Thinking about living in Cusco, Peru? This is the expat guide for you! See what it's really like living in Peru and if Cusco is the city for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Medellín, Colombia
Don't miss this guide on living in Medellín, Colombia! Get an idea of cost of living, know which neighborhoods are best, and why I love living in Medellin.
A Beginner's Guide to Living Abroad in Montreal, Canada
Interested in moving to Canada? Learn what it's really like living in Montreal, the best neighborhoods, and all the fun things to do as an expat in Canada.
An Expat's Guide to Living in St. Maarten
Stunning beaches, secluded coves, and a vibrant nightlife awaits. See what living in St. Maarten is really like and if living in the Caribbean is for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Aruba
Interested in moving to Aruba? See what it's like living in Aruba from the eye's of an expat, with where to live and best things to do for fun.

Check out our expat guides to Living in Asia

Da Nang Neighborhoods: Best Areas to Stay
Moving or traveling to Da Nang and can't decide where to stay? This Da Nang neighborhood guide will help you find the perfect area for your trip or move.
Is Da Nang Safe? Important Info & Tips For 2024
Curious to know is Da Nang safe to visit or to live? After living in Da Nang for 2 years, here are my biggest tips to staying safe in Da Nang.
A Digital Nomad's Guide to Living in Pokhara, Nepal
Head to Pokhara while it's still a well-kept secret! Learn what it's really like working remotely while living in Pokhara, Nepal.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Get off the beaten path and see what it's like living in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Learn about visas, where to live, and the pros/cons of living in Mongolia.
An Expat’s Guide to Living in Tokyo
Dream of living in Tokyo? Here's everything you need to know about living in Tokyo from an expat who spent 8 years in the city.
5 Best Places to Live in South Korea
Dream of moving to South Korea but can't decide where? These are the best 5 places to live in South Korea for expats. From Seoul to Jeju, you'll love it here.
5 Best Places to Live in Vietnam
Excited about moving to Vietnam? These are the 5 best places to live in Vietnam that you should consider as your next home abroad.
How to Move to Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide
Thinking about moving to Vietnam? Learn how to move to Vietnam, if it's a good place for you, the different visa options, and best cities to live.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Northern Iraq
Have an opportunity to live in Northern Iraq? See what it's living in Iraqi Kurdistan and the different areas in this region.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Phuket
Although known as a popular tourist destination, there's a lot more to Phuket than most realize. See what it's like living in Phuket and why we love it here.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Canggu, Bali
Dream of moving to Bali? There are many great places to live on these magical islands but living in Canggu is the best! See why from a current expat.
The Average Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur (for an Expat)
Thinking about moving to Kuala Lumpur? Understand the cost of living in Kuala Lumpur as an expat before you buy your plane tickets and move to Malaysia.
The Average Cost of Living in Oman (for an Expat Couple)
Thinking about moving to Muscat but want to know what you're getting yourself into? Check out the cost of living in Oman for a British expat couple.
10 Best Places to Live in Asia as an Expat (2024)
Dreaming of Asia but can't decide where to move? Take it from current expats! These are the top 10 places to live in Asia in the eyes of female expats.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Mumbai, India
Want to know what it’s really like living in Mumbai as an expat? See the reality of life in Mumbai and all you need to know to settle into Mumbai.
Moving to Japan: 5 Cities That Aren't Tokyo
Thinking about moving to Japan but haven't yet decided where? These are 5 great cities to live in Japan that aren't Tokyo.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Shanghai
Living in Shanghai was a dream come true for me. Could it be the perfect home abroad for you, too? See what it's really like living in this buzzing metropolis.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Chiang Mai
With the low cost of living, great food, and welcoming locals, Chiang Mai is a digital nomad dream. See if living in Chiang Mai is a good fit for you, too.
An Expat Guide to Living in Muscat, Oman
Oman is a true gem that not many consider when picking a place to move abroad. See why you should consider living abroad in Muscat as your next home abroad!
The Ultimate Guide to Living in Da Nang, Vietnam
After living in Da Nang, I'm confident that Da Nang is a great place to live abroad. With a mix of city and incredible nature, you'll be eager to move abroad.
Expat Life in Kuala Lumpur: Tips for Finding an Apartment
Moving to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and looking for your new home base? Learn everything you need to know to rent a great apartment in this busy city.
A Beginner's Guide to Living in Kuala Lumpur
In this guide to expat life in Kuala Lumpur, we'll dive deep into what it's really like living abroad in KL, from the best neighborhoods, to Malay food to try.
A Beginner's Guide to Living in Manila, Philippines
Manila is buzzing with activities, sights, and experiences. If you're eager to live in the same energetic city, learn what living in Manila has been like.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Bangkok, Thailand
Here are 8 things all expats planning on living in Bangkok should know. Find out the best area to live and the cost of living in Bangkok.
A Beginner's Guide to Living Abroad in Yangon, Myanmar
Want to live in Yangon? Learn about cost of living, transport, visas, fun things to do in the city and 8 big tips I wish I knew before moving to Yangon!
7 Things to Know Before Moving to the Maldives
Learn how you can move abroad to the Maldives. Get these 7 big tips from a current expat so you can learn all you need to know before moving to the Maldives.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Bali, Indonesia
Interested in moving to the tropical island of Bali, Indonesia? Understand how to get a visa, the cost of living, and what jobs to do while living in Bali.
An Expat Guide to Living in Taipei, Taiwan
Find out how you can move to Taipei, Taiwan! Get the insider's scoop on the best neighborhoods to live in and how to ease into life in Taipei.
A Guide to Living Abroad in Jeonju, South Korea
Jeonju, South Korea is a city brimming with history, culture, and world-renowned food. See why you should try living in Jeonju for a quiet Korean life.
What to Know Before Moving to Singapore
Find out from what life in Singapore is like for foreigners to weigh the pros and cons of moving to Singapore yourself. I love living here but will you?
An Expat Guide to Living in in Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand
If you're looking for a beautiful island with plenty to do and a vibrant community of people from around the world, look no further than Koh Phangan, Thailand.
Living in Thailand on the Non-Immigrant "ED" Visa
Here's what you need to know about the Non-Immigrant "ED" Visa in Thailand. Read the updated rules and how to avoid the crackdown.
How to Work & Travel in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa
Here's all you need to know about the Working Holiday visa Japan! With this Working Holiday visa you can live and work legally in Japan for 1 year.
A Guide to Living Abroad in Hong Kong
Get advice on moving to Hong Kong, some things to know before moving, and how to settle in as an expat in Hong Kong. I've loved living here but will you?
A Guide to Live Abroad in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Find out what it's like to live in chaotic Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam as an expat. Get to know the districts, how to rent an apartment, and what to do for fun.

Check out our expat guides to Living in Europe

How to Move to France: The Ultimate Guide
Trying to figure out how to move to France? Learn what it's really like living in France, visa options, and best areas of the country to live.
Italy's Digital Nomad Visa: How to Work Remotely from Italy
Dream of working remotely from Italy? Now you can with the newly launched digital nomad visa in Italy. Learn the requirements and how to apply.
6 Best Places to Live in Albania
Move to a beautiful country with cool cities and stunning small towns that's off the beaten path. These are the 6 best places to live in Albania.
A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Pula, Croatia
Take your work abroad to Pula, Croatia. See what it's like living in Pula as a digital nomad with the cost of living, best areas to live, and things to do.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Cascais, Portugal
Dream of moving to Portugal? Skip over Lisbon and see what it's like living in Cascais instead for a smaller town and close-knit community.
How to Get a Student Visa in France (to Learn French)
Want to speak French like a native? Learn how you can get a France student visa to learn French in the country with the DUEF Program.
Is Trieste Safe? Important Info & Tips For 2024
Heading to Trieste but worried about safety? Find out is Trieste safe for a trip or to live there from a current expat who lives in Trieste.
An Expat's Guide to Living In Grindelwald, Switzerland
Looking for a home abroad that gives you stunning nature, a great location, and year-round activities? See what it's like living in Grindelwald, Switzerland.
8 Best Places to Live in Hungary
Moving to Hungary but can't decide where? These are the 8 best places to live in Hungary from an expat who has called this country home for years.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Budapest
Budapest is more than just thermal baths and great nightlife. See what it's like living in Budapest, Hungary and if you'd like living here, too.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Trieste, Italy
Moving to Trieste, Italy? See what it's really like living in Trieste and if this is the best Italian city for you to move to, too.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Chelsea, London 
Dream of living in London? When choosing which area of the city to live in, don't overlook charming Chelsea. See what living in Chelsea London is really like.
4 Best Places to Live in Portugal for Digital Nomads
Ready to enjoy living in Portugal as a remote worker? These are the best places to live in Portugal as a digital nomad and a few helpful tips.
Best Places to Live in London: An Expat's Guide
Moving to London but can decide where in the city to call home? Find out the best places to live in London from the eyes of an expat.
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Bihać, BiH
Looking for a place in the Balkans to settle down in nature and get some work done? See what it's like as a digital nomad living in Bihać, Bosnia & Herzegovina.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Paris
Dream of living in the City of Lights? See what it's really like living abroad in Paris. From deciding where to live to how to get a visa, read it here.
A Beginner's Guide to Living in Athens, Greece
For a place that perfectly blends old and new, look no further than Athens. See what living in Athens, Greece is really like to decide if it's the spot for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Annecy, France
For the perfect mix of stunning nature and city amenities, look no further than Annecy, France. Learn what it's like living in Annecy from a current expat.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Cork, Ireland
With grassy hills, dramatic coastlines, historic cities, and quaint towns, there's a lot to pull you to Ireland. To stay, try out living in Cork, Ireland.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Prague
Dream of living in Prague? Let's see what it's really like for expats in this fairytale city. We'll cover the pros and cons to see if it's right for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Zurich, Switzerland
Considering a move to Switzerland? See what living in Zurich is all about. Find the best neighborhoods, things to do, and get a peak at the high cost of living.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Gran Canaria
Dream of moving to Spain? See what it's like living in Gran Canaria to see if this island paradise in the Canary Islands is the home abroad for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Cádiz, Spain
Settle down in sunny southern Spain and see what it's really like living in Cádiz. This city and entire province have a lot to offer in a home abroad.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Edinburgh
Dream of living in the UK? See what it's really like living in Edinburgh, Scotland as a female expat. Here's all you need to know for a smooth move.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Córdoba, Spain
Moving to Spain but can't decide where? Get an expat's perspective on what it's like living in Córdoba, Spain to see if this charming city is for you.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Sarajevo
Planning to move abroad to Sarajevo? This guide outlines everything you need to know about living in Sarajevo, from where to live and what to do for fun.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Glasgow
See what it's like living in Glasgow, Scotland as a female expat. Learn about the cost of living, best things to do, and the logistics you can't overlook.
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Novi Sad, Serbia
Looking for your next digital nomad base in Europe? See what it’s like working remotely while living in Novi Sad, Serbia as a digital nomad.
An Expat Guide to Living in Thuringia, Germany
Looking for a home abroad that can offer a great work-life balance and easy access to nature? See how living in Thurinigia, Germany offers just that!
16 Digital Nomad Visas in Europe (2024)
Take your online work with you to Europe with these 16 digital nomad visas in Europe. Each of these visas is open for applicants now!
The Best & Worst Croatia Visas for Long-Term Residency
Dreaming of moving to Croatia? Learn the best and worst Croatian visas for long-term residency in Croatia. You won't want to miss these immigration tips!
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living on the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Take your work remotely to the incredible Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. See what it’s really like living on the Bay of Kotor as a digital nomad.
15 Best Places to Live in Europe as an Expat (2024)
Deciding where to move to in Europe? These are the 15 best places to live in Europe as an expat. See what current expats have to say to pick your new home.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Manchester
Living in Manchester was just what I wanted but is it a good place for you to live abroad, too? Learn what it’s really like living in Manchester as an expat.
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Saranda, Albania
Planning a move to Albania? See what it’s really like living in Saranda as a digital nomad. This coastal town has plenty to offer but is it right for you?
An Expat's Guide to Living in Berlin
Want to see what living in Berlin, Germany is really like? Learn how I got a work visa, found an apartment, and settled into a happy life in Berlin.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Split, Croatia
Want to know what it's like living in Split, Croatia as a female expat? This is for you! See the cost of living, best neighborhoods, and how to make friends.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Barcelona
See what it’s really like living abroad in Barcelona. Find out the best neighborhoods, the best things to do in Barcelona, and if you should move to Spain.
An Expat's Guide to Living in London
Learn all the best expat tips for living in London. See what it's really like living abroad in London and if it's the home away from home for you.
Moving to Germany? Hamburg Should Be at the Top of Your List
See why I fell in love with Hamburg when I moved here years ago and why living in Hamburg might be your perfect expat destination.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Madrid
Are you thinking about moving to Spain? Find out why expats loving living in Madrid and if it could be a great home abroad for you, too.
The Ultimate Guide to Living in Brussels, Belgium
Want to live abroad in Brussels? Learn all the things I wish I knew before I moved, where to live in the city, and some of the best things to do.
Expat Life in Northern Italy
Welcome to La Dolce Vita! Here's the truth about living in Northern Italy, striped away from it's picturesque glamor.
Moving to the Netherlands: Utrecht vs. Rotterdam
Learn the pros and cons of living in Utrecht and Rotterdam. Check out the cost of living, fun things to do in each city, and how to find a job in each.
Expat Living In Groningen, Netherlands: 6 Things To Know
Moving to Groningen, Netherlands but don't know what to expect? Here's some basic knowledge that everyone should have before they start living in Groningen.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Dublin, Ireland
Want to move to Ireland? See what it's really like living in Dublin from an expat who has called the city home for years.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Leeds, UK
If you're a nature lover, shopaholic or foodie, Leeds is the perfect place for you! Learn what it's really like living in Leeds as a foreigner.
6 Things to Know Before Moving to Sweden
Thinking about working or studying abroad in Sweden? After 2 years of living as an expat in Sweden, here are 6 things you should know before you make the move.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Florence, Italy
Want to move abroad to Italy? Find out what life is like living in Florence. Learn about the best areas of the city and the reality of living in Florence.

Check out our expat guides to Oceania

The Best Visa Options for Living in New Zealand
Dreaming of a life in New Zealand? First, you'll need to figure out which visa works for you. Here's a mega list of visas for New Zealand so you can stay.
9 Best Places to Live in New Zealand Aotearoa
Planning a move to New Zealand but don't know where in the country? Don't miss these 9 best places to live in New Zealand to help you make your decision.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Auckland, New Zealand
Dream of living in Auckland, New Zealand? Here's everything you need to know before you move abroad from visas and jobs to housing and neighborhoods.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Wellington, New Zealand
Want to see what it's really like living in Wellington, New Zealand? This guide covers the best neighbourhoods, cost of living, and things to know.
An Expat's Guide to Living in Melbourne, Australia
Want to know what it's really like living in Melbourne? Check out the neighborhoods and see why expats call Melbourne the world's most liveable city.
A Beginner's Guide to Moving to Sydney, Australia
Learn all about living abroad in Sydney. Gain tips on visas, transportation, cost of living, and a few things I wish I knew before I moved to Australia.
4 Steps to a Successful Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand
Here's what you need to know about New Zealand's Working Holiday visa. Learn the steps to getting the visa, tips to explore the island, and how to get a job.
The Basics for Living Abroad on the Gold Coast, Australia
Find out why the Gold Coast, Australia it's a great place to live abroad. Learn how to find a job, what the cost of living is, and why you'll love living here.
How to get a Working Holiday Visa for Australia
Find out everything you need to know about Australia's Working Holiday Visa! Know the processing time, age limit, and what jobs are available to you down under.

Check out our nomads guides to Living Nomadically

10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads (2024)
Can't decide where in the world to go as a digital nomad? These are 10 best countries for digital nomads, from a remote worker herself!
The Insider Truth About Living on a Sailboat
Dream of living on a sailboat? Get the inside scoop on what it's really like living full-time on a sailboat to see if it's the lifestyle for you.
Ultimate List of Freelance & Digital Nomad Visas (2024)
Now you can work remotely from one of these 43 countries from around the world. Learn about the requirements and how to apply to these digital nomad visas.
A Beginner's Guide to Traveling the World in a Camper Van
Gain the freedom to travel the world and live a fulfilled life on wheels. Here's 6 big tips to living in a camper van and what you need to keep in mind.
What It's Really Like to Live Full-Time on a Sailboat
See what it's really like living on a sailboat. Learn the benefits of living on a boat and weigh the pros and cons to see if it's right for you.
The Lifestyle of a VIPKID Teacher
For new hires at VIPKID, read on for some tips to get bookings quickly, how to teach while you travel, and how to file taxes as a teacher.

Check out our guides for Long-Term Visas

The Best & Worst Croatia Visas for Long-Term Residency
Dreaming of moving to Croatia? Learn the best and worst Croatian visas for long-term residency in Croatia. You won't want to miss these immigration tips!
4 Steps to a Successful Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand
Here's what you need to know about New Zealand's Working Holiday visa. Learn the steps to getting the visa, tips to explore the island, and how to get a job.
How You Can Get a Work Visa for South Africa
See how you can move abroad to Cape Town, South Africa! Find out what it takes to get a work visa and settle into expat life in South Africa.
Living in Thailand on the Non-Immigrant "ED" Visa
Here's what you need to know about the Non-Immigrant "ED" Visa in Thailand. Read the updated rules and how to avoid the crackdown.
How to Work & Travel in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa
Here's all you need to know about the Working Holiday visa Japan! With this Working Holiday visa you can live and work legally in Japan for 1 year.
How to get a Working Holiday Visa for Australia
Find out everything you need to know about Australia's Working Holiday Visa! Know the processing time, age limit, and what jobs are available to you down under.
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