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Mexico’s Digital Nomad Crackdown: What Expats Need to Know
A City Transformed Recently, Mexico City faced growing protests over rising rents. As a result, the city’s mayor promised rent controls to ease residents’ frustrations. Many locals blame gentrification and soaring housing prices on the recent influx of “digital nomads”—remote workers from abroad, especially the US, who are drawn to the city for its lower costs and vibrant culture. How Did We Get Here? During the pandemic, Mexico relaxed entry rules, making it a hotspot for foreigners seeking remote work. Consequently, the government promoted the city as a tech-friendly destination. At the same time, Airbnbs sprang up in trendy neighborhoods. Thousands of newcomers arrived, laptops in hand, earning in dollars…
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Smart Moves: Home Buys and Opportunities for Expats
Picture: David Lotton and Cynthia Ferrer in Normandy, France, where they looked to buy a house for around $450,000. Matthew Avignone for The New York Times Buying a home abroad can seem tricky. But it’s also exciting. Just ask David Lotton and Cynthia Ferrer. These two Americans made their dream come true by buying a home in Normandy, France. Their story shows what’s possible for expats. Why Normandy? Normandy is beautiful and affordable. Prices are steady, not rising fast. The local market is balanced, which makes buying here less risky. Plus, the area is rich in culture and history. That’s a big draw for many people moving overseas. Steps to Buying…
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Top Destinations for Americans Moving Abroad
Ever dreamt of a fresh start in a new country? Many Americans are making that dream a reality. Whether it’s for work, retirement, or just a different pace of life, moving abroad offers unique experiences. Let’s explore some of the top destinations that are catching the eye of those looking for a change of scenery. Mexico: Sunshine and Savings Mexico is often a top pick for Americans moving abroad. Why? It’s close, affordable, and rich in culture. You can find everything from bustling cities to serene beaches. Plus, the cost of living is significantly lower than in the U.S. This means your dollars stretch a lot further, especially for rent…
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Spain Pays Remote Workers to Save Vanishing Villages
Spain’s countryside faces a big problem. In fact, many villages are losing people fast. This is called “Empty Spain.” Because of this, schools close, shops shut, and older people are left alone. One region, Extremadura, has a bold plan. They pay remote workers up to €15,000 to move there. The goal is to bring life back to these towns. Why Are Villages Empty? Young people leave rural Spain for big cities like Madrid and Barcelona. They want jobs and better chances. As a result, mostly older people stay behind. Some villages have an average age over 60. Moreover, birth rates are very low. Without young people, towns shrink quickly. Extremadura’s…
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Why Buying Property in Spain Costs More Than You Expect
Buying a home in Spain sounds like a dream. The sun, the lifestyle, and the price tags seem perfect. However, the true cost is often much higher than the listing price. If you’re thinking about buying property in Spain, it’s important to understand all the hidden costs and risks. Upfront Costs Add Up Quickly First, the price you see online is just the beginning. For new homes, you pay a 10% VAT right away. For resale properties, there’s a transfer tax between 6% and 10%, depending on the region. On top of that, you have notary fees, land registry costs, and legal fees. These can add another 3% to 5%…
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Skip the Hype: Find Your Perfect Expat Spot
Ever dreamed of sipping coffee in Paris or watching the sunset in Santorini? You’re not alone. But sometimes, reality doesn’t match the dream. Overcrowded streets, high prices, and long lines can quickly spoil the magic. Why the Most Famous Cities Disappoint Many expats move abroad hoping for a new adventure. They want to experience real local life. Yet, places like Paris, Venice, or Barcelona can feel more like tourist traps than home. Prices are sky-high. Crowds fill every corner. Even a simple meal can cost a fortune. It’s easy to feel lost in the chaos. There’s a Better Way: Try Hidden Gems Luckily, there’s hope. You don’t have to settle…
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Portugal/EU: What Expats Should Know About the “Portu-exit” Protests
Lately, Portugal has seen small but vocal protests calling for an EU exit. These “Portu-exit” movements may feel like déjà vu for anyone who remembers Brexit—and naturally, expats are wondering what this could mean for their future in Portugal. Let’s break down what’s happening, how serious it is, and what expats should realistically expect if the idea of leaving the EU gains traction. What’s Going On in Portugal? While Portugal has long been seen as one of the EU’s most pro-European countries, recent protests—fueled by economic dissatisfaction, housing pressure, and political frustration—have introduced a new tone. A small but growing segment of the population is now questioning whether Portugal benefits…
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Europe’s New Vibe: Expats, Your Guide to Thriving!
Europe is buzzing,Europe is changing. It’s buzzing with a new kind of energy. Cities Thriving in Europe’s New Expat Reality Dreaming of a life in Europe? You’re not alone. From remote workers to retirees, people around the world are drawn to its culture, lifestyle, and beauty. But lately, things are shifting. Not in a bad way—just in a smarter, more thoughtful direction. Cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Venice are rethinking how tourism and relocation affect daily life. Locals are speaking up. Policies are changing. And for expats, that’s not a problem. It’s an opportunity. What’s Changing and Why Let’s be honest: for years, many European cities have struggled with overtourism.…
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The Magic Gets Lost in the Crowd
When you picture a dream destination, you probably imagine quiet moments and beautiful sights. But in reality, you’re often surrounded by hundreds (or thousands) of people. It’s hard to soak in the beauty when you’re dodging selfie sticks and waiting in long lines. Instead of feeling special, the moment feels rushed and crowded. Too Many People, Not Enough Space Popular places like Venice or the Parthenon in Athens are often packed. The narrow streets or small viewing spots fill up fast. You might find yourself elbow-to-elbow with strangers, all trying to get the same photo. It’s tough to feel a sense of awe when you’re squeezed in with a crowd.…
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Your Global Move: Thriving as an Expat
Dreaming of working in a new country? An international assignment can be an amazing adventure! It offers incredible growth and fresh perspectives. However, it’s also a big step, and many expats face unexpected challenges. Did you know nearly 40% of international moves don’t go as planned? But don’t worry, you can beat these odds! Let’s explore how to make your global journey a success. Facing the Unseen Challenges Abroad Moving overseas is more than just packing your bags. It brings unique hurdles that can surprise you. First, culture shock is real. You might know the language, but truly understanding a new culture is deep work. This includes local customs, values,…
