It is Time to Make your Balinese Dreams Come Alive
The time to act on Bali is now, or maybe even a year or two ago to be honest. The foreign population has yet to take over and skewer the cheap prices and relatively low cost of living and the warm, inviting culture is still abundantly prevalent. Whether we want to admit it or not, the more expats that head to an area the less attractive it becomes for a lot of people. That is, unless you are just looking for a home away from home that offers the same prices, foods, housing, and so on. Just look at Costa Rica and possibly Panama within another couple of years. Real estate prices have soared and everything is becoming a little more “Americanized”. Whether that is a good thing or not is entirely up to you.
Besides being awarded the classification as the world’s best island, Bali has much more to offer, such as world famous Bali Scuba diving, Scuba safaris, a rich aquatic life, many water sports, and a break from the contemporary fast world. Bali is an Indonesian island that truly does set itself apart from other parts of the world when it come to splendour and beauty, yet still allows for a comfortable transition abroad. The island provides you with a break from the hectic life that you have become used to and gives you the chance to move slower and feel calmer than usual. With a population of no more than 35 hundred thousand the island is a sheer treat to be at.
Bali is still considered a “hidden gem”, but it will not be hidden for much longer. But what exactly does Bali have to offer for someone looking to move abroad? How can you find a way to live in Bali or find a job in Bali? Well that is what we are here for. Let’s delve a little deeper into the topic of living and working in Bali, and making your overseas living dreams come alive.
Culture in Bali, Indonesia; Tira Hita Karma
Life here in Bali means a relationship between God, humans, and their environment. The recent hike in the tourism industry has led to a change in the lives of the Balinese people to some extent, but Balinese culture is still something that makes Bali different from the rest of the world. The population is basically concentrated on the islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan and Serangan. The majority of the people here follow Balinese Hinduism as the main religion. Farming, fishing, craftsmanship, and trading are the traditional occupations even though there is more emphasis being placed on tourism and the hospitality industries these days. Balinese and Indonesian are the most widely spoken languages although, thanks to the tourism development, English has gained its place as the third most important language in the country. The country has a very rich, diverse, and flamboyant culture that focuses on all sorts of arts and crafts. Bali is especially famous for its dance, drama, and sculptures.
Weather and Climate in Bali
Climatically, it is tropical all year round here and there is no need for winter jackets, or even jeans. However, you should be prepared for rain on any given day, yet it will do nothing to dampen your mood when living in paradise. The temperature is constant at around 30 degrees Celsius and it can be highly humid at times. In terms of the peak seasons, May to August are generally considered to be the best months to travel to Bali but this is a destination that really lacks an off season, unless you are incredibly picky.

Traveling to Bali
The increasing number of direct flights to Bali has made it easier for people to travel here and access the wonders that are abound. There are daily connecting flights from Singapore, Hong Kong, Perth, Jakarta, Melbourne and Sydney just to name a few. While the routes are most popular in between April and September you may be able to find a number of tantalizing deals if you try to snag a flight in early October or the end of March. While checking the airline time tables, you should make sure to look for Denpasar instead of Bali, and that is a fact many travelers neglect which causes them to struggle to find flights.
If you want to get a little more creative when traveling to Bali and engage in a unique experience, you can also access Bali by sea. The main sea route is via a ferry from the eastern tip of Java, which also happens to be one of the most populated islands in the entire world.
Balinese Currency and Cost of Living in Bali
The Indonesian Rupiah is the currency of Bali. At the moment this article is being written the current conversion is 1 USD = 9,878.09 IDR. For up to the minute currency exchange and conversion information XE.com is a great place to start. The cost of living in Bali is relatively lower in comparison to many parts of Europe, the USA, and even some countries of Asia. However, Bali is not the least expensive place in Indonesia as a number of the surrounding islands possess a lower cost of living, but a far lower standard of living as well. There are other costs in Bali that may have you feeling you are being overcharged, but this is mostly due to the island lifestyle and the import costs pertaining to certain goods and services.
Telephone bills tend to be pricey and electricity can get costly. Keep in mind that the true cost of living in Bali is really left up to you. The more westernized that you want to live, the more you can expect to pay to live “comfortably”. If you are willing to dine on local cuisine, cut out television and other western necessities, and wrap yourself up in Balinese culture, there is the opportunity here to live overseas on a dime. If you can afford to live a lavish lifestyle by all means go for it. On the other hand if you are looking to save money by moving abroad, then you can benefit greatly from blending in with the local economy.
Working and Finding a Job in Bali
From the work point of view, tourism in Bali attracts a lot of immigrants and foreign workers. Bali is a country that is starting to thrive on tourism and thus there are a plethora of opportunities for English workers to land jobs and make money abroad. If you are interested in that type of work then the first place you might want to look is in the direction of hotel management. You can also get in contact with tour companies and services and inquire about jobs as a tour guide for English speaking people. If you are in the exporting and importing industry then you may also find possible employment in Bali, as a number of goods are brought in and out of the country at all times. Bali has a rich form of art and culture which is desired around the world, and obviously the country needs to import a number of products in order to thrive.
Working Visa and Residency Visa in Bali
Expatriates must possess a KITAS visa to work in Bali and without one you may be subject to a very heavy fine. Two main business licenses that Bali expats often apply for are CV and PT. A CV basically caters to small scale business whereas a PT relates to large scale businesses. On a side note it is important to keep in mind that working in Bali does include dealing with suppliers, employees, and customers which is not necessarily a cake walk.

Even though there are many jobs that cater to foreigners, the Indonesian government does not entertain the thought of many foreigners being recruited to their land given the high rate of unemployment. The Balinese government is wary of the impact an abundance of foreigners can have on the country and are trying to avoid giving jobs to expats that can be done by natives. Thus, your best bet is to seek out jobs in Bali that cannot be fulfilled by locals and require special skills that you can bring to the table. Hotel professionals and language teachers (preferably English) may still find it easy to fetch a job though as these are the two professions that often cannot be done by many citizens in Bali.
Housing and Accommodations in Bali
One of the most exciting things about a potential move to Bali is the price of real estate. There really is an endless list of housing options and choices that can meet any budget. You can invest in a luxurious villa with all your savings simply rent out a small beach hut for just a few thousand dollars a year. With a huge number of real estate companies moving into the country, there is housing that fits in any budget readily available.
Living in Bali, as previously mentioned, is cheap and can be an incredibly rewarding as long as you are prepared and determined to adapt to a new way of life. The laid back atmosphere, the warm, art-filled culture, pristine beaches, and dazzling attractions make Bali the perfect place to vacation, and an even better place to call home for some people. Dig deeper into what Bali has to offer. Plan an action packed vacation to Bali. Get in touch with expats who live there or have traveled there before. Do whatever you can to find out just how much this paradise has to offer, and then it will become pretty obvious what your next step should be. So long as you are ready for the commitment.
Are there travelers who have had bad experiences in Bali? Of course. Are there some people that will tell you that Bali has an abundance of economical and sociological problems? Absolutely. However there are thousands of people who will rave about what this island has to offer. What you make of your Bali experience is entirely up to you.

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A Thriving Economy and Natural Beauty Wrapped into One

Test the Water Before Jumping in

Brazil is exceptionally beautiful and not only known for the Rio carnival but also for its memorable fun filled football carnival and a number of other lively and inviting cultural festivals. Be it the music which is a treat for ears or the very flashy samba, Brazil has it all. If Sao Palao is urban at its best, Bahia sure has preserved its cultural heritage and flaunts it well. Brasilia, the capital city, is one of the most well planned cities in the world. On top of those destinations, Iguacu falls has got that extra something that you just cannot ignore and gives you a feeling of serenity that is unrivalled. It really is hard to describe why Brazil is so special and what makes it different from the rest of the world. It just is.
So what if you want more than just a vacation in Brazil. Maybe two weeks in South America is not enough. Maybe you want to escape the rat race and your boring desk job. Maybe you are simply in love with Brazilian flavour and the culture. Either way, the good news is that there are options out there if you are serious about moving, living and working in Brazil.
Life In Brazil
Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and is situated in South America. It is also the fifth most populous country of the world and possesses the tenth largest economy of the world. This is a fact that surprises many people when they realize how much money is existent in certain parts of the country, and how much opportunity is there. There is a very big difference from area to area though and a major difference when comparing the rich to the poor. You do have the opportunity to live very cheap in Brazil, or spend thousands a month depending on your chosen lifestyle.

Engage Yourself within the Picturesque Communities

Brazil has a very multicultural population. About 55% of the population is European, 39 % of it is mixed race and 5% each are of African and Japanese heritage. Its estimated population is 155 million, though the current population rate is slowing down quite dramatically. A small reason for the decrease is the increase in retirees and expats moving to the country to indulge in what it has to offer.
Brazil is a multi religious state. Since 1889 Brazil ceased to have an official religion, once the constitution of the country was set forth. The majority of the people are Roman Catholic but Candomble is another religion that is followed closely by the people of Brazil.
As far as languages go, there are many languages in Brazil with Portugese being recognized as the official language. It is not uncommon to hear as many as 4 different languages in certain parts of the country, and English is abundant in larger, more populated areas.
The Climate varies from hot and dry in the dry interior to humid tropical rainforests of the Amazon jungle. Mountainous regions in Brazil may be cold during winters but the coastal region is generally hot. Rainy seasons vary according to the region and the months of the year.
The most popular means of income for citizens of Brazil tend to revolve around fishing, farming and sea trading traditionally. However there are also a number of big businesses that have set up shop in the country and a number of opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industries.
Travel and Work in Brazil
Brazil is by far the most visited country in South America, thus airfare to the country is reasonable as long as you seek out the best deal and consider booking a flight in the off season. Many international airlines serve Brazil which makes it very accessible and easy to comparison shop when looking for accommodations, flights and everything else in between.
Brazil welcomes you all year round but you may consider some weather particularities and conditions if you intend to travel to the Amazon or Pantanal. It is wise to take more than price into account as days of rain can really put a damper on your getaway, literally.
Finding a Job in Brazil
One of the best ways to find jobs in Brazil is through referrals and personal leads. It is a strong emerging economy and thus it leads to a lot of employment in the following sectors of IT, engineering, accounting and finance, sales and marketing, human resources and business and networking groups. This sets Brazil apart from a number of work abroad destinations where you may only be able to find employment via a hotel, restaurant or even online.

Work Visa in Brazil
Trying to get a visa permit in order to work can be a lengthy process. Some diplomatic missions may still accept mail-in visa applications but none guarantee a rush service. So, it is advisable to make visa arrangements weeks before the actual date of plan of action, in order to stay on time with your itinerary and not have any unexpected setbacks.

Plan it Right and Brazil Offers so Much and Takes very Little

Cost of Living Brazil

When it comes to standard of living, Brazil ranks numero uno in South America. Even still the cost of living is relatively cheap in comparison to North America and Europe. The official currency of Brazil is Real or BRL. 1 real = 0.545 USD. Prices in Brazil shot up in recent years thanks to the gains in local currency against the USD. Pay scale depends upon the job title, skill, proficiency and education. Software engineers may fetch any thing in between 20,000 to 40,000 BRL, whereas an IT official easily fetches a salary in between 1,20,000 to 1,40,000 BRL. Thus, the pay scale and the standard of living does vary from person to person depending on a number of factors.

In the end though, it is important to realize that there are opportunities to find employment in Brazil that will pay you well and allow you to bank money and live on less. Will you wake up and have this opportunities banging down your door? Probably not. If you want to find the perfect opportunity in Brazil you are going to have to make the effort on your own. Network, reach out to people, visit Brazil and search out job vacancies and discover the areas where you would like to live.
Tropical islands, rainforests, pristine beaches, a flavorful culture, a reasonable cost of living and a high standard of living are just some of the things that Brazil has to offer. However, it is important to remember that Brazil is a very large country and there are no set standards or rules that extend from border to border. There are overpriced cities, there are run down communities and there are challenges ahead. Your best bet is to stock up on some of your savings and take a trip to Brazil first. Grab your backpack and explore South America’s giant and all the colors, festivities, tropical islands and picturesque colonial towns.

If you fit in well, find a place you love, and feel that Brazil is the place for you then you can move on and take the next step. While you may love the idea of what Brazil has to offer and want to jump right in, it is best that you treat the country like a cold wading pool. Dip one toe in at a time, get comfortable and then wade deeper and deeper to ensure that your body can deal with the transition.

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Switzerland Equals Natural Beauty

Harmony, Safety and a Great Salary in Switzerland

Switzerland is an enigma in and of itself. It is extremely difficult to describe the nation in any sum of words, or with any basic description. Other destinations can be described in a general way as the culture and society remains principally the same throughout their borders. This is not the case in Switzerland as it is a complex community that differs dramatically from place to place. It takes time to adjust to the goings on, it takes effort to win over the locals, and it takes investment to make things happen. However, with the right amount of work Switzerland can be an extremely satisfying and gratifying destination to move, live and work abroad.
While many potential expats view Switzerland as a place of elegance, order, and purity, there are so many variables and differences to consider. It is almost like 3 or 4 different countries and cultures rolled into one. The north and some eastern parts of the nation consist of primarily German speaking cantons while the southern and western parts of Switzerland are dotted with rich French and Italian communities full of a vivacious atmosphere. Surely there is a language difference in the different communities but there are also many diverse happenings when it comes to politics, economy, climate, cuisine, and a number of other factors.
All the variables and complications aside, Switzerland boasts a dramatically promising lifestyle that many expatriates lay in bed dreaming of. Hundreds of thousands of people have chosen to call Switzerland their home abroad, and the country attracts tens of millions of tourists every year. To get right into it, here are some factors to think about and reasons why you might want to consider a move to Switzerland.
Health Care in Switzerland
When it comes to heath care Switzerland’s reputation precedes itself. When compared to countries like the USA the health care system is affordable but will require monthly health insurance. If you are making the move from a country such as Canada or the UK you may find the monthly rate quite draining, but the quality of the system is bar none. It is obligatory to have the proper health care but you are given 3 months after your arrival to sort out the specific arrangements. If you are bringing your family to Switzerland you should be ready to shell out close to $800 a month on health care, but will be covered for most matters and be given the best treatment possible. While the cost may seem arduous you will be almost guaranteed minimal waiting times and top of the line treatment, which many other countries cannot offer.

Imagine Waking Up to This Every Morning?

Shopping in Switzerland
If you are used to large, obscene shopping malls then Switzerland will offer a nice change of pace when it comes to shopping. The small, local, family owned shops are convenient, calm, and welcoming. There are a vast number of supermarkets and shops but it will take some time to get used to the hours. Many grocery stores and even places like post offices tend to close between 12 and 2pm. This has a lot to with the protection given by the government to shop owners and farmers. This protection available in the country when it comes to subsidization can affect the cost of living and the price of food dramatically however. Dining out and shopping can get quite costly which can have a major impact on your chosen lifestyle and budget. If you are used to fast food restaurants and dining out weekly then you are going to need to either plan your budget accordingly or cut back in order to afford your new life.
Education in Switzerland
While the education standards in Switzerland are very high, they do differ from community to community based on the different cantons in the country. Kindergartens exist all over the country and are free, but there are very few pre-schools and nurseries for younger children. Many expats often complain about the lack of childcare for younger children and also the “streaming” effect used in schools; as early as age 10 children are divided based on their abilities. This is something that is widely accepted by locals but is a new way of thought for foreigners. Also, university is a minority for most of Switzerland as over 70 percent of students opt for vocational schooling. There is also an abundance of private schools that also offer courses in English but they can be quite costly. If you are lucky the price may be included as part of your new employment’s relocation package.

Who Doesn't Dream of Having a Swiss Bank Account?

Banking in Switzerland
For decades people have associated having a Swiss bank account with fortune and high class. While it may not mean instant fortune it is easy to get your hands on a Swiss bank account as a resident of the country. While credit and debit cards are used commonly, you will rarely see check books anywhere in Switzerland. Despite the abundance of technology you will notice that most Swiss citizens prefer to use cash for daily expenditures and leave the plastic at home. People often stream into shops at the end of the month to pay their bills in cash, rather than use online banking and the internet. On a positive side note, mortgage rates are relatively low when compared with other destinations, however many citizens and expats opt to rent accommodations rather than purchase them outright.
Social Networking in Switzerland
The Swiss culture is comparable to British culture when it comes to how reserved people are. While it is unfair to say that the Swiss are unfriendly, you will very rarely be approached by strangers or engaged in random conversation. If you want to meet new people, and connect with new acquaintances, your best bet is to extend an invitation on your own and lay down the groundwork for networking, as opposed to waiting for people to come to you. Learning the local language will obviously go along way into easing the transition abroad. If you are searching for a job you will quickly understand the term, “it’s not what you know, but who you know”. Get out there, meet new people, attend functions, and possibly most importantly, be on time. Punctuality is taken very seriously in Switzerland as opposed to other destinations abroad such as Costa Rica or Thailand.

A Swiss Apartment that Makes All the Effort Worthwhile

Accommodations in Switzerland
Unlike other countries, most Swiss people choose to rent rather than buy property. Tenants are generally very well protected by tenant rights. You can access a high quality of living by renting property, especially if you are wary of making a long term investment. Subletting is extremely common throughout Switzerland, which is excellent news for expats such as yourself. It is important to keep in mind the culture when renting a property as Swiss tenants are very considerate. Use the laundry rooms appropriately, take recycling very seriously, and keep quiet after certain hours or you may lose respect from some of the other tenants. As for pricing, a general guideline is that you can find an apartment in a major city for between $1,000 and $1,500 that is sized around the 100 square meter mark. Obviously an apartment that is larger or more centrally located will cost more, much the same way it does in most other countries.
Transportation in Switzerland
Many expatriates take advantage of the excellent public transportation in Switzerland to cut down on the cost of living. The train system runs across the country reliably and the public transportation is quite efficient. Trains are your best bet as buses can be expensive if used daily.
Added Reasons to Move to Switzerland
On top of government factors and cost of living, Switzerland offers so much when it comes to natural and architectural beauty. You may have heard stories or read news clippings about what Switzerland has to offer, but it doesn’t even begin to describe the attractions and beauty you can find here. There are rivers, mountain vistas, creeks that run off of glaciers, waterfalls, pastures, and a whole host of natural beauty in between.
An excellent reason to move to Switzerland is the safety. Unlike other, less family oriented destinations, Switzerland is incredibly safe as the crime rate is surprisingly low, especially in terms of violent crimes. Children walk the streets alone at all times of the day without a worry. There are also an abundance of activities to partake in as you can take advantage of wonderful hiking trails, water-sports, cycling, skiing, and most everything else you can imagine. The climate in Switzerland never gets too uncomfortable in either direction. It does snow in the winter which provides for excellent winter activities, but the weather in the south is also almost tropical. Palm trees are abundant and the sunshine provides peace and a calming effect.
Switzerland seems to be less well known as an attractive location to move abroad to, but that is simply because it promotes itself less than other countries. The Swiss are comfortable in their community and the harmony and peace that are present. The ideals seem almost old fashioned and uncommon, but make the way of live in Switzerland very attractive for expatriates all over the world.
Finding Work in Switzerland
Now that we have discussed the advantages of moving to Switzerland and what the nation has to offer, the real question becomes how can you get here? There are quite a few major international firms that have headquarters in Switzerland, and if you are involved in the banking industry there are quite a few opportunities for employment. However, finding a job in Switzerland may not prove to be that easy, as the country is known for some restrictive immigration policies and tight quotas for work permits. You surely have quite a few questions so let’s take a quick walkthrough on how to find a job in Switzerland, and shed some light on your potential move.
The good news is that Swiss policy may seem quite restrictive at first, but may be easier to navigate than you first imagine. The best news for foreigners is that law requires expats to be paid the same salaries and receive the same work conditions as Swiss citizens. If you have ever worked abroad or looked into moving abroad then you know how comforting that law is for foreigners. The amount of foreign workers in Switzerland has increased steadily over the last few years and recently it was noted that there were close to 2 million expat workers in the country. This means that foreigners are making a big impact on the economic success of the nation and that the government is becoming more lax in terms of restrictions.
When you first begin looking for a job in Switzerland it is important to remember the regional differences evident. Close to 50% of foreign workers are located in Geneva, and the majority of them are employed with international institutions. If banking is your business, you should note that most banking jobs can be found in or near Zurich. You should also keep in mind that language will play an important part in your job search, and you should research the language that is most evident in the area you would like to head to.
Where to Find a Job in Switzerland
The Internet
There are quite a few recruitment agencies in Switzerland that run their business online. These recruitment agencies can only extend true help to citizens or those with work permits, but you can still take advantage of the functions their sites offer. You can engage in customized job searches where you can navigate based on regions and job sectors. There are also sites that allow you to post your CV and resume online in order for potential employers to browse through. The internet is probably the most used source for finding employment in Switzerland today.
Magazines and Newspapers
There are a wide number of job offers found in daily newspapers, mostly in the classified sections. There are also quite a few positions advertised in trades magazines as well as monthly city magazines and other publications. You also have the option to place an ad yourself, but people who have done this claim it to be ineffective and a waste of money. Unlike the internet, you will find jobs easier through newspapers and magazines only if you are already located in the country.
Employment Agencies
Employment Agencies play a large role in the recruitment market for Switzerland. The problem is that many agencies only work with current citizens or expats that possess a residency or work permit. They cannot apply for the permit for you as this can only be done through an employer.
Aside from these somewhat obvious options there are a couple of opportunities that you can look into on your own, such as career fairs or via straight contact. If you are set on landing a job in Switzerland then perusing a Career Fair is a great way to get in touch with the right people. You can also opt to file speculative applications in order to get your foot in the door and see what potential employers may be looking for. Email or phone human resources departments and inquire about opportunities or certain requirements they might be looking for. You will not be handed a job in Switzerland and in many cases you are going to have to create opportunity on your own. However, a little hard work can go a long way in allowing you to realize your Swiss relocation goals.
Finding a Job in Switzerland for EU Citizens
There is quite a bit of good news if you are a citizen of the EU. First off you will not need to possess a work or residency permit for up to 3 months, which means you have a significant amount of time to get to Switzerland and network and peruse the job market. Secondly, you are allowed to use State employment agencies in order to possibly find a job and are given much of the same rights that Swiss citizens have.  All you really need to do is register with the regional employment office and get your name out there.
Potential Salaries in Switzerland
The most exciting news when it comes to moving to Switzerland is the fact that surveys estimate that salaries are two to three times higher here than most other European countries. This is for both skilled and unskilled trades and extends generally from border to border, with a few obvious differences between jobs in rural and urban communities. A study that was completed in the year 2000, (might be outdated but still relevant) suggested that Geneva and Zurich were two of the highest paying cities in the entire world. At that time it was noted that the average monthly income was above $9,000 USD, which may seem extra high but included all assets include pension, private income, and so on. On average the wages have not increased much since then and salaries do vary in different parts of the country. Also, pay scales in the banking industry are also generally higher than other sectors.

Still Need More Reasons to Move to Switzerland?

So How Do I Determine My Salary in Switzerland?
Determining your estimated salary, when considering a move to Switzerland, is not necessarily easy. Many Swiss citizens are tight lipped when it comes to personal finances and generally do not enjoy talking about salaries. Also pay scales are not commonly advertised in advertisements for employment.
In many cases your salary will be quite negotiable once you have come across a job that suits you. It is left up to you to determine your worth based on your experience and relatable qualifications. With that said, seniority is taken very seriously in the country and new staff members will generally not be paid the wage that loyal, senior members of the company receive, even if you will be doing the exact same job. You will be protected by minimum based salaries for most occupations but many employers have shifted towards performance based contracts that reward hard work and determination.
Can’t You Give Me an Exact Figure?
You may wish that we could tell you the exact figure you can expect to make when moving to Switzerland, but it really is not that simple. There is no easy form of calculation and no real existence of facts and figures that are reliable. This is where your own personal research has to come into play in order to make sure you are paid appropriately. Discover your worth, analyze cost of living, and determine what you feel is a fair figure. It is not that employers will try to short stack you; it is just common practice in the society for potential employees to offer up a reasonable salary, rather than the employers.
Is Switzerland the perfect destination for every expat looking to move abroad? Absolutely not. However there are an abundance of reasons to at least consider the move and look into what the country has to offer. This is a truly personal decision that will affect the rest of your life, or at least a couple of years. Consider a short term vacation to the country, browse online at potential jobs, and give yourself a little taste of Swiss culture. Should you pack up and immediately move yourself and your family to Switzerland? Probably not. However after a short vacation there, or some in depth research, you may just realize that this harmonious, culturally diverse, and economical prosperous nation may just offer the escape you are searching for.
Even if you are not sure what you want in life, there is no harm in looking into the matter further. If you end up deciding that another country has more to offer you, so be it. It’s not like a vacation in the Swiss Alps will be something you regret.

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Paradise Without Breaking the Bank

Ecuador is one of the most beautiful and exciting countries in the world today. Though its diversity and beauty hasn’t been unleashed yet, but it is rapidly becoming one of the favorite holiday destinations across the globe. Geographically located in the Andes Mountains, it supports some of the most exquisite plants and animals. With its large variety of landscapes, it’s a must visit for every nature lover.
From ancient cities to one of the thickest forests in the world, the country has a whole lot of variety for you to discover. Tired of the hectic city life? With one of the lowest population densities in the world (approximately 50people/ sq km), Ecuador assures a calm, peaceful and pollution-free stay.
Talking about the people, most of them are friendly, God-fearing people who will treat you with a lot of respect as a visitor and feel honored to help you. Previously being a Spanish colony, Spanish is still the local language. Even if you are an English speaker, you would be able to blend in pretty easily as it is understood by a large population.
A Luxurious Lifestyle on an Affordable Budget
Thinking about permanently moving to Ecuador? Hold onto that thought, because it is a good one. It is one of the most affordable countries in the world with great work and business opportunities, making it a perfect retirement destination, or a place to strive earlier on in life. With no restrictions on foreign-based businesses and a really relaxed law system, you get to keep 100% of your profits and pay very nominal taxes. And if you are under the impression that the living standards are not as high as you are accustomed to, then you might not know Ecuador yet.
In all the major cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, you will find many of the familiar brands, cars zooming around in busy streets, and people using cell phones and internet as commonly as other necessities of life. You have world class restaurants and hotels, excellent medical care, and all other luxuries that you need to live life comfortably at very cheap prices. In fact, you can live a comfortable and satisfying life on less than 20,000$ a year.
Finding Work in Ecuador
Finding work in Ecuador for a foreigner is easy. With a flourishing tourism industry, jobs are generally available from May to September when tourism is at its hike. Getting into the hospitality industry is generally advised for someone multi-lingual. Setting up your own tourism related business can pay off really well too. Hotels, bars and tourist guides do a lot of business in the peak months.  However, as with any position you apply for, having at least a base knowledge of Spanish will go a long way to easing your transition and making life more comfortable in your new home.
Teaching is also a feasible and rather popular occupation among foreigners. There are many schools, institutes and colleges that offer English classes and teachers are usually in demand. Teaching can usually earn you 5-8$ an hour as a starter which is likely to increase with position. While that sounds mediocre at best and is poor when compared to other destinations, it is important to note that you can stretch your dollar quite far in Ecuador. Ecuador also hires English speakers in all major export related jobs as the USA is the major trading partner of the country.
Ecuador is a country in which you can live on an extremely small income. This is why it is becoming such a popular live abroad destination for people who work from home or make money online. You do not need to be an internet mogul or a dot come millionaire to settle into a comfortable and successful lifestyle. You can find a luxurious colonial home for around 25,000$ or rent a home for about 100$ a month depending on what you are looking for.
Ecuador offers a peaceful life at an affordable price with natural beauty all around and lots of adventurous activities to do. Can life be any better??

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The Winding, Elegant Roads of Spain

Spain is one of the most beautiful countries in all of Europe. There is something magical about it that you can feel even when you simply utter the words. The language, the culture, the natural beauty, and the architecture are all stunning, spectacular, and mystifying at the same time. However, the problem is that we all hear about just how costly it is to live or travel to Europe these days.

The Euro is a powerful currency that probably puts your local currency to shame, thus making it a lot harder to stretch a dollar. But what if you landed a job that paid you in Euros? That might just be the best way to keep your dream of touring Spain and Europe alive. However it isn’t always as easy as that……. is it?

What can you expect in Spain? What is the cost of living in Spain? What sorts of jobs are available out there? Let’s get right into it.
For starters, let us take a quick look at some of the things you need to know, and need to take care of before shifting your life to Spain and moving abroad. You already know that the language of the land is Spanish, (If you don’t then maybe this isn’t the destination you should be headed to, but that is beside the point) but there are quite a few other factors to consider.
The Essential Things that you need to Know before Moving to Spain

Learn Spanish

Without knowing basic Spanish don’t even think of moving to Spain. It is the first thing that you need to learn. You may be able to get by without it, but it is going to be a struggle. This doesn’t mean that you have to be fluent or a natural Don Juan, but at least grab a book and some audio tapes and lay down the groundwork. Spanish for Dummies is a great starter point and once you have the basics down, everything should flow nicely when you are submerged in the language and the culture.
Apply for a Spanish Visa

You will need to get a Spanish visa from the Spanish consulate in your country. It is advisable that you find yourself a full time or part time job before applying for a Spanish work visa. The company you are working for can help you get through the process, and the all the steps are hastened quite drastically.
Find a Place to Live

This cannot be missed; you have to find a good place to live in Spain. You can contact some rental apartments via the internet and get a place booked in the city or town of your choice. There are quite a few options, and you can leave it until you get there if you want. However the added stress of not having a place to lay your head at night can turn your venture into quite a headache.
Renew your Driver’s License/Passport

If any of these two is nearing expiry then you ought to rush to renew them. Your current driver’s license can be easily converted into an international license which will make it a lot easier to get around. However if it is expired you will be SOL. On top of that you will be stuck with major problems if your passport expires during your extended stay in Spain. Renewing it at home is a lot easier than renewing your passport abroad.
Health Insurance

Being in Spain you need proper health insurance. As an expat you can opt to use either your existing national health insurance policy, via some international arrangements, or you can choose to apply for a policy with a reputable Spanish Insurance company. While it may seem like a drain on your bank account at the time, the peace of mind health insurance offers is well worth it.
Transportation

It will make thing quite a bit easier if you can get your hands on a vehicle in order to get around in Spain. There is public transportation but it can be quite a hassle and taxis are incredible pricey. You can choose to bring your car abroad with you but there are some good deals to be found by just looking around once you have relocated to Spain.

Possible Job Opportunities in Spain
If you are not starting a business and don’t happen to be sitting on a massive nest egg, then you are going to need a job in Spain to pay for your living expenses. Some of the jobs that English-speaking expats can apply for are listed below with their expected salaries. Of course these salaries can vary and change quite often, but this will give you a good general idea.
The most common job for a non-EU expat is to be an English teacher. The job pays anything between €800 and €2,000 on a monthly basis. Your salary will depend greatly on your previous experience, qualifications, and credentials. There are a number of places you can look into that are constantly looking for English teachers such as public and private schools, universities and even business firms.
The IT sector in Spain is on the rise and demand for skilled IT professionals is growing constantly. A person skilled in programming, system management, and other IT skills can get anything between €2000 and €4200 per month depending on their credentials. These jobs are also posted and advertised in a number of places.
There are also a number of opportunities that lay in other sectors like journalism, hospitality, and tourism. The pay in these fields is also very competitive with the salaries you would find at home. Your salary will almost immediately increase if you are bilingual or can come up with an impressive grasp of Spanish before heading abroad.

Dazzling Sights Around Every Corner in Spain

Cost of Living in Spain
This is one of the major concerns for most expats moving to Spain. The good news is that compared to other spots in Europe, Spain is still a relatively cheap country to live. According to a survey, on average a couple needs to spend €644 per month as their living expenses. The cost of housing is still less than what is found in the UK. Average rental rates for property in non-tourist places is around 3%-4% of the property’s value while in tourist places, it is as high as 7%. This is in direct correlation with the fact that salaries are higher in the more populated areas as well though.

If you are looking to buy a home in Spain then you should expect to pay mortgage rates of around 6% when it comes to interest. That is pretty viable considering some of the things that are going on in real estate these days. Gas prices and utilities have gone up recently and after a one time deposit of €25, a monthly bill of €15 for gas can be incurred.

For a couple they can expect monthly food expenses to hover in between €300-€350 per month. This figure of course changes based on eating habits, but it is a good sign overall as produce and other items are relatively affordable in Spain. Phone bills and satellite television bills are high because of the Telefonica monopoly. There isn’t any competition in the market, thus you are pretty much stuck with the only option that is there. Your best bet is to use the internet to watch television, and stick to Skype. Although you probably knew that already being the savvy traveler you are.
Making the Move to Spain

Just as it would be with any move to a different country there is a lot for you to plan and prepare for when considering living and working in Spain. While there are some beautiful sights, an invigorating culture, and a number of opportunities, it is going to be quite a bit different than what you are used to. While there are a number of expats and even locals that speak English, you are going to be a lot better off if you learn the language.

It will be easier to get around, easier to get a job, and easier to become accustomed to your new lifestyle. Unlike places like Costa Rica which have been turned into a haven for retirees and foreigners, Spain has held tightly to tradition. That may just be why it is such an attractive destination for many.

Study the culture, get in touch with anyone you know that may have been to Spain before ,and prepare yourself as much as you can. You are entering a new part of the world and a new stage of your life. This is a huge change but if you plan properly, moving to Spain could be a rewarding journey of a lifetime.

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A Boring Job at Home can be the Experience of a Lifetime Abroad

Moving abroad is a dream for many, and an opportunity that should be relished.  The truth is that very few of the people that dream about living overseas actually make it. While it is easier than ever to kiss the rat race goodbye and start a new life, there are still a number of hoops you have to jump through to get there. Each destination offers different challenges and obstacles and it is up to you to overcome them. If living and working in the UK is on your list of things to do then you will definitely want to get up to date with this information. Here are the top ten tips on working in the UK so you can make your transition as easy as possible.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #1- Do it Legally
There are a number of opportunities to find work where you are paid under the table, but it really is not worth the risk. If you are caught working without a visa you will be deported almost instantly and never be able to return. There are a number of organizations that can help you get a hold of a 6 month visa. A very respected organization for this is BUNAC, which charges an administrative fee but can set you up with a visa, possible accommodations, different social events, and even help you find vacant jobs.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #2- Plan for National Insurance
Once you have a work visa, the organization that helped you should also be willing to find you national insurance. Your national insurance number is relatable to a social security number at home. You will need to set up an appointment after you arrive in the UK and will be given a number you can use temporarily until your card is processed and ready. This will ensure that you are covered when it comes to health services and provide you with a lot of protection during your stay in the UK.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #3- Switch up your Resume
It is very unlikely that the same resume you used to apply for a job at McDonald’s is going to help you land a job in the UK. Have a look at some sample resumes that can be found online, as resumes used in the UK are a bit different than the style used in North America. Extend your resume a bit and include a personal bio section about yourself. Try not to go too in depth, as that is what the interview is for, but give a good idea to the employer about who you are and what you can offer the company.

Be sure to visit the employment advice section and in particular our article about putting together a quality cover letter.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #4-Invest in a Phone
It is quite amazing how much having a phone can help you in your job search. Potential employers will be unwilling to contact people purely via email and are even scared off by people who cannot provide a phone number on their resume. One of the first things you should do is grab a quick pay as you go phone once you get off the plane. Chances are, if you give the company an easy way to contact you, there is a bigger chance they actually will.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #5- Add some Flexibility
It is a good idea to think about the type of short term job you would like and which area of the UK you would like to experience, but try not to be narrow minded. If you enter the job search with a closed mind you may miss out on some of the best opportunities and be left unemployed for a frustrating amount of time. Keep in mind that the entire experience abroad is completely different. While you may hate the idea of working in a Starbucks at home, hooking into a job at the local coffee shop may prove to be an excellent way to get to know people and branch out. Stirring lattes sure beats aimlessly wandering the street looking for work, and munching on ramen while handing out resumes.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #6- Do not Appear overly Desperate
While it is good to be flexible and keep an open mind, obvious desperation could look bad to a potential employer. Walking into a store or an employment agency and telling them that you will do anything could leave you in a poor position. While it may be true that you are desperate and willing to do anything, do not act that way. Let them know about previous experiences and gloat about what you bring to the table. In many instances the more specific you are about what you want to do, the more driven and determined you look to a company.
Move Abroad to the UK Tip #7- Sign up with Recruitment Agencies
It is a good idea to call different recruitment agencies before you even arrive in the UK and set up a face to face. Be prepared with your updated and revised resume, references, and have an idea of what you are after. You will be sat down with an adviser and put through a number of tests and questionnaires, but it will mostly all be worth it. These agencies can help you find interim work before you even find a full time job. This can often help keep a roof over your head when you get there. They are easy to find as well. Just search for some on Google in the area you are headed and you should be all set.

Move Abroad to the UK Tip #8- Use all Available Resources

Finding a job is not easy, although many websites will tell you that it is. The good news is that jobs are advertised everywhere you look, and there are literally thousands of resources you can use to get in touch with the right people. Social networking sites such as GumTree offer jobs and you can search for jobs online at places such as Monster.com. You do need to be careful with resources such as Craigslist and GumTree though as some jobs are in fact scams. However, even with all these places to look you should never underestimate how much success can come from walking into stores with a nice outfit and a clean resume. You may even be able to get employers to hire you even when they were not looking for new employees at the moment.

Move Abroad to the UK Tip #9- It’s all about the Benjamins

Planning a successful trip to the UK is all about knowing what to expect. It would almost be impossible to search for a place to stay, create a budget, and plan your time abroad, without having an idea of the salary you are going to be bringing in. While the numbers will change and vary from place to place, you can expect a salary between £5 and £7 per hour if you find work in a restaurant. However tipping is not as common as it is in other parts of the world. The minimum wage is right around £4.60 for people aged 18-21 and £5.52 for people 22 or older. Remember that the bigger the city you are working in, the more likely it is that your salary will be higher. If you want to go the route of office work then you can usually expect to be paid around £7 or £9.50 an hour.

Move Abroad to the UK Tip #10- After you have landed a Job

Just because you have found employment doesn’t mean that all your research and work is done. Make sure you analyze your contract and terms of employment closely. This will help you to understand upcoming holidays, benefits, and taxes you will have to deal with. If you make less than £5,000 you may be exempt from taxes altogether. Find out what sort of planned holidays you can put together and that way you can put together a perfect itinerary for your life in the UK.

No matter how much you research or which information you choose to follow, it is up to you to make things happen. All the preparation in the world will not allow you to make it if you are not dedicated and determined. However if you have the drive, and truly want to live and work in the UK, these tips should help ensure your dreams are realized. If you do make it, be sure to drop us a line and tell us how it went. Or if you have worked in the UK before, leave some feedback and advice for others. Remember, we are all in this together.

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