These Are the 10 Best Countries for Expat Quality of Life—and No. 1 is a 4-time Consecutive Winner

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OMG! You Won’t Believe These Places for Your Next Move!

Hey friend! I am so excited that you are finally thinking about heading out and seeing the world! Seriously, I’ve been waiting for you to ask me where to go. I just read this super cool list about the best places to live as an expat—that’s just a fancy word for someone who lives in a country they weren’t born in. And guess what? Spain won for the fourth time in a row! Can you believe that? Four times! That is insane!

If you are looking for a place where life is easy, the food is amazing, and everyone is happy, you gotta look at these spots. I’ve put together a huge guide for you so you can plan the best trip ever. We’re talking about where to eat, where to take the coolest photos for your phone, and how much money you actually need. No guessing here, I’ve got all the prices for you! Let’s get into it!

Spain: The Grand Champion

Spain is number one again, and it’s not hard to see why. The vibe there is just different. People don’t live to work; they work to live. It is so chill! If you go to Madrid or Barcelona, you are going to see people hanging out at outdoor tables at 10:00 PM on a Tuesday. It’s wild!

What to eat: You have to do a “tapas crawl.” This is where you go from one tiny bar to the next and eat one small plate at each place. Order the “Patatas Bravas.” They are crispy potatoes with a spicy red sauce and a creamy white sauce. It’s the best snack ever. It will cost you exactly $6. Also, order “Tinto de Verano.” It’s like sangria but way more refreshing and cheaper. It’s $4 a glass.

Where to stand for photos: In Seville, go to the Plaza de España. Stand right in the middle of the big bridge with the colorful tiles. It looks like a movie set! If you are in Barcelona, go to the Park Güell and stand by the mosaic lizard. It’s iconic! Just make sure you get there at 8:00 AM before the crowds show up.

Why it’s cool: The sun is always out, and the healthcare is super cheap if you live there. Plus, everyone takes a nap in the afternoon called a “siesta.” Imagine a country that wants you to nap! That is my kind of place.

Mexico: The Land of Tacos and Colors

Mexico always makes the list because it is so friendly. Seriously, the people there are the nicest people you will ever meet. They will treat you like family even if they just met you.

What to eat: You have to get Tacos al Pastor. It’s pork cooked on a big spinning spit with a pineapple on top. The guy will flick a slice of pineapple right into your taco from his knife! It’s like magic. Go to a street stand in Mexico City. Each taco is only $1. You can eat five of them and be totally full for $5. It’s a steal!

Where to stand for photos: In Mexico City, head to the “Casa Azul” which is Frida Kahlo’s blue house. Stand right against the bright blue walls. The color pops so much in photos! If you’re at the beach in Tulum, find the giant wooden sculpture of a person opening their chest. It’s $10 to get into that area, but the photo is worth it.

Why it’s cool: It’s super close to home, and your money goes so far. You can live like a king or queen on a small budget. Also, the music! You’ll hear mariachi bands everywhere, and it just makes you want to dance.

Vietnam: The Hidden Gem of Asia

Vietnam is making big moves on the list because it’s super safe and incredibly cheap. If you like coffee and busy streets, this is your spot.

What to eat: You have to try a Banh Mi. It’s a French-style baguette filled with meat, pickled veggies, and cilantro. It is the best sandwich in the world, hands down. Go to a stand on the sidewalk. It costs $1.50. Also, try “Egg Coffee.” It sounds gross, but it tastes like liquid tiramisu. It costs $2 at a cute cafe.

Where to stand for photos: Go to Hoi An. It’s an old town with yellow buildings and thousands of colorful lanterns. Stand on the bridge over the river at night when all the lanterns are lit up. It’s the most beautiful thing you’ll ever see. It looks like a fairy tale!

Why it’s cool: It’s a total adventure. Renting a scooter for the day is only $8. Riding through the mountains or along the beach with the wind in your hair is the best feeling ever. Just watch out for the traffic in the big cities—it’s crazy!

Portugal: The Beautiful Coast

Portugal is right next to Spain and it is just as awesome but with a totally different vibe. It’s a bit more laid back and has some of the best ocean views ever.

What to eat: You HAVE to eat a Pastel de Nata. It’s a little custard tart that is warm and crispy. Go to the famous bakery in Belém. They are $1.25 each. I usually eat three at a time. Don’t judge me!

Where to stand for photos: In Lisbon, find the pink street (Rua Nova do Carvalho). It is literally painted bright pink! Stand right in the middle of the pink ground with the yellow buildings in the background. It’s a “must-do” for your social media. Also, ride the yellow Tram 28. It’s $3.50 and takes you through all the tiny hills.

Why it’s cool: The weather is perfect. It’s never too hot and never too cold. Plus, the surf is amazing. Even if you don’t surf, watching the giant waves in a place called Nazare is super cool. Those waves are as tall as houses!

How Much Does This Cost?

I know you’re worried about the money, but don’t be! I broke it down for you. You can do these trips on a budget, or you can go all out if you’ve been saving up. Here is what a typical day looks like in these top expat spots:

CategoryBudget (The Fun Way)Balling Out (The Fancy Way)
Place to Sleep$25 (Cool Hostel or Shared Airbnb)$350 (Luxury Hotel with a Pool)
Three Meals$15 (Street Food & Local Markets)$120 (Top-rated Chefs & Wine)
Daily Fun$10 (Walking Tours & Public Parks)$150 (Private Guided Tours)
Coffee & Snacks$3 (Local Cafes)$20 (Trendy Instagram Spots)
Total Per Day$53$640

See? You can totally do this! If you stay for a month, you could spend as little as $1,600 and have the time of your life. That’s cheaper than rent in most big cities here!

Wait! Before You Pack Your Bags!

I am so serious about this—you need to come join our group before you book anything. We have all the secrets for finding the cheapest flights and the best hidden spots that tourists don’t know about. It’s like having a travel agent in your pocket but way more fun.

Go to https://www.facebook.com/CheaptravelVIP.FL right now and join us! We are always sharing deals and talking about where we’re going next. I want to see your photos from Spain or Mexico in there soon!

I can’t wait to see which country you pick. Whether it’s the tapas in Spain or the tacos in Mexico, you are going to have the best time ever. Life is too short to stay in one place, right? Let’s go see the world!

Your best travel buddy,

Me