Over the last two generations or so, the population of the United States has become more and more mobile. Corporate transfers from state to state or even from one side of the country to the other have become quite common. Some individuals have even been transferred overseas. More than in the past, career advancement today frequently involves geographically relocating or at least considering the possibility of relocation.
When I was teaching in the university during my academic career, I found that in order to get a promotion or even an increase in pay, I most frequently had to change locations. It was much easier to progress in my career by relocating than it was to simply wait on a promotion within the university in which I was teaching at the time. I was able to progress in my career faster by making these moves. The working environment and the need to have more mobility today includes a larger geographical area.
Today the world has gotten smaller, largely due to advanced means of communication like the internet. Where I would have moved from state to state within the United States; others are now moving from country to country. Some have even become perpetual expatriate travelers, constantly moving from country to country.
The two major reasons for moving abroad are: (1) to work abroad, or (2) to retire abroad.
Working Abroad. With the expanding interdependence of world economics, it has become easier and easier to find international business opportunities. Developing nations are looking for skills that either are not yet available among their own population, or due to cultural reasons, are not considered desirable positions. For example, right now in 2010, the country of Panama needs contractors who are willing to build housing for lower socio-economic citizens. Even though the government is pushing programs to build this type of housing, few local contractors are taking advantage of this market. Those who are building for the expatriate population in the upper price ranges consider it beneath their dignity to build the less expensive houses. It might effect their image. So, the housing shortage continues.
Retiring Abroad. Retirees from the U.S. and many European nations are now looking at retiring to a location less expensive than their home country. Couple this motivation with those individuals who move for a new lifestyle, adventure, better weather, and a perpetual vacation (good goal; harder to accomplish), and you have a large developing number of prospective expatriates. Countries like Belize and Panama have recognized this opportunity and have designed specific retiree programs with a multitude of benefits for expatriates. If you are interested in retiring abroad, such programs can not be beaten. Check them out.
If you have a personality that craves change, living abroad is definitely for you. If you want a shorter change of environment, living abroad is also a good choice. Whether it is a new job, job transfer, long term vacation, or permanent residency you desire, living abroad has much to offer you.
Dr. Lamar Ross, a cultural anthropologist by training, has a special interest in training individuals for expatriate living and providing information on unique travel destinations. He is an author, educator, photographer, internet entrepreneur, and international traveler. He has lived in the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and India and has traveled extensively in 29 different countries. He speaks both English and Spanish fluently and has a basic ability in several other languages. For more information on expatriate living, check out the blog Expatriate Traveler Notes
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