Thinking About Living Abroad?  You’re not Alone!

If you’re thinking about living abroad then you’re really not alone.  A new survey by NatWest Bank on the subject has revealed some startling findings – for example, among one particular age group of Britons surveyed almost three out of four respondents were determined to escape their fast paced and stressful lives for an idyllic overseas haunt.

NatWest commissioned the survey of British residents to try and determine just how strong the lure of a new life abroad is, and what exactly is fuelling this desire among Britons to expatriate.  The survey’s findings prove that if you are thinking about living abroad or have already made the move overseas then you’re not alone and be prepared for your neighbours, family and friends to all be joining you soon!

At a time of the year when the nights get longer, the temperatures drop lower and the amount of sunshine available in Britain is at minimum levels it’s common for the British to start surfing sites and brochures and looking at beautiful holiday destinations as a means of escape.  The number of holidays booked in the winter months is huge and since buying property abroad has become a favourite pastime for the Brits, it is also the most popular time of the year for enquiries to be made and viewing trips to be booked.

This fact may mean that of those surveyed more were suffering from the effects of bad weather syndrome and more actively considering escaping the British shores than they might in the spring and summer for example – but even with this factored in the results are striking.  The respondents were broken down into categories based on their age and it was the 30 – 50 year old age group most actively seeking or at least considering a new life abroad.

72% of 30 – 50 year old Britons who took part in the NatWest Bank survey said that they would consider a permanent life as an expatriate and overall the survey deduced that one in three UK residents want to escape the hectic nature of their lives and find a relaxed lifestyle overseas. 

Does this say more about the British in general?  After all we are a nation that enjoys travelling and exploring…or does it say more about the culture in Britain that has really begun to take hold in the last ten years?  The culture that deems we should all work until we’re fit to drop and then have enough put by so that we’re not a drain on the state, where working a 40 hour week is for wimps and commuting half way across the country is the norm as no one can afford property in the areas where the majority of employment opportunities present themselves?  Hard to say – but one thing’s for sure, if the British do expatriate at the rates indicated in the NatWest survey could the last one out turn off the lights please?!