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. The crowds. The rising rents. The endless short-term rentals that push locals out of their own neighborhoods.
Now, many communities are pushing back.
They’re asking for balance.
Governments are responding. Some cities are limiting short-term rentals, introducing tourist taxes, and investing in community-first planning.
This doesn’t mean expats aren’t welcome. It means you have to be intentional about how you move, live, and integrate.
And that’s where SettleAway comes in.
Expats Aren’t the Problem—But They Need a Plan
Expats aren’t the same as short-term visitors. You’re not here to party for a weekend. You’re here to build a life. But if you don’t plan carefully, you can get caught in the middle of rising local frustration.
For example:
- You rent a short-term flat from abroad. It’s easy—but technically illegal.
- You move to a tourist-saturated neighborhood. Locals are distant.
- You work online and shop global—but never connect with the local economy.
It’s not bad intent. But it can make integration harder.
The good news? With just a few smart steps, you can avoid all of that.
SettleAway’s Guide to Relocating the Right Way
✅ Choose the Right Location
Don’t compete for overpriced flats in overcrowded areas.
We highlight hidden gem towns and affordable neighborhoods where long-term rentals are legal, livable, and available.
✅ Plan for Stability
Our relocation guides walk you through how to:
- Rent legally and safely
- Avoid short-term “gotchas”
- Get documents in order
- Set realistic budgets from day one
✅ Build Local Connections
Want to feel at home?
We show you how to plug into the real community—from language meetups to local events, and even volunteer opportunities that help you give back.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about belonging.
The New Expat Mindset: Respect, Not Rush
Let’s face it—mass tourism is exhausting for cities.
But long-term expats can be the opposite of that. You bring consistency, creativity, and connection.
You’re not just renting an apartment. You’re buying bread at the corner bakery. You’re waving to your neighbor. You’re helping cities stay vibrant and diverse—not just busy and expensive.
That’s what cities want. And that’s what your future self will want too.
Real Steps You Can Take Right Now
Don’t wait until you arrive to “figure it out.”
Here are five easy things you can do today:
- Research two alternative cities near your dream location—less famous, just as livable.
- Join a local Facebook group for expats and see what people are saying about rentals.
- Learn 10 local phrases—you’ll be surprised how far they go.
- Look up visa rules early to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Download SettleAway’s Starter Guide to get all the basics in one place.
Europe Is Changing. That’s a Good Thing.
The era of mindless tourism is fading. In its place? A more thoughtful way of living abroad—where expats and locals thrive together.
If you want to live in Europe, live with Europe. Respect the rhythms. Support the neighborhoods. Be a person, not a presence.
And remember: with the right mindset—and the right guide—your dream life abroad is still within reach.
SettleAway helps make it real.
Let us give you some information on the most interesting countries for expats: here.
