The chance to live and work in some of the most beautiful places in the world does not come around too often. When it does, it’s best to grab it with both hands and enjoy the chance of living abroad, surrounded by idyllic landscapes. That’s why there are an estimated 232 million people starting jobs outside their home countries.

However, often the reality of living and working abroad means that you miss out on all of the good things you moved away for. Work gets in the way and before you know it, you’re stuck in that familiar routine. But it wasn’t meant to be this way, and we’re taking a look at some of the best ways to make the most out of living and working in paradise.

Explore your environment

You may have just moved into a luxury villa or apartment, but it's important to go beyond your new four walls. It may seem obvious but getting out into the environment of your new country is the best way to start making the most of your time there. Finding local beauty spots can really make you feel like the upheaval of moving to another country was completely worth it.

Maybe you have just moved to a new house in Mauritius and you’re looking for somewhere amongst its natural wonders and inviting climate for a daily morning stroll. Exploring your surroundings is the best way to find places that you like. Sure you could read up on places of interest but the best locations are the ones that aren’t in any travel books or blogs. They are the ones that you find yourself and where you truly feel like moving away was worth it. Like the local coffee shop, where they know you by name and already have your order waiting for you when you arrive.

Living in Mauritius - Tamarin Golf Estate, 6 Bedrooms

This sublime luxury villa in the heart of an exclusive Tamarin golf estate is nestled on a hillside. This magnificent property is a true haven of peace for its residents thanks to its immense landscaped garden of over 5,000 m² offering a stunning view over the estate and the mountains.

Dive into local culture

The best way to find your feet and start enjoying life when moving abroad is to dip your toes into the local culture. You may be surprised at just how willing people are to welcome those asking for help and to provide it for them. Look for businesses around your new community that match up with your interests and volunteer to help out. It’s a great way to see and meet people directly involved in the local culture, plus you can make a positive impact on your new community.

Remember, this new location is now your home so do what you can to make it feel that way. If you have moved to the South of France for instance, endeadvour to visit local restaurants to get a real flavour of the cuisine and what your new corner in the world does better than anywhere else. Thanks to the internet, those who perhaps are not so great at striking up a conversation with strangers can meet like-minded people through apps and websites like Meetup. They allow you to attend organised events for others looking to meet people and are always welcoming to new members.

Living in France - Mougins, 5 Bedrooms

This truly unique villa is nested in the hills of Mougins with panoramic views of the bay of Cannes and the L'Esterel mountains. There are four bedrooms and four bathrooms, all beautifully decorated with a touch of Bali, as well as great open entertaining space where the kitchen, dining and lounge area all open onto the garden and pool area.

Divide work and leisure

Working hard certainly has its bonuses, and along with more money, it can be the best way to ensure you meet your career goals. But, it’s important to remember that work isn’t everything and there is always time for relaxing and finding hobbies that you love. And if it doesn’t seem like there is time then it’s all about making time.

You may find that your social group only consists of your colleagues but even in that situation, it’s important to have defined social and working schedules. Making time outside of work will allow you to take a step away and hone in on the experiences that intrigued you about moving away in the first place, don't forget to leave time to explore the mountain ranges South Africa has to offer for example, rather than letting them become simply a backdrop.

Living in South Africa - Midrand, 9 Bedrooms

This designer home is bold and contemporary, situated on 2,053 sq. m. of land in the heart of the prestigious suburb of The Lakes in Steyn City, and has amazing views over the estate towards the Magaliessburg mountains where one can watch the sun set while sipping cocktails on your rooftop balcony. This family home has a grand entrance accompanied by a koi pond, high rise ceilings and a magnificent chandelier, offering nine bedrooms all en-suite. 

Getting to know your co-workers

There is a good chance that you are not the only person in your workplace who may be feeling a little isolated. That could be through hosting a dinner party in your beautiful new home or gathering a posse for a local quiz night.

One thing that will help you settle and get the best from your new environment is to try and befriend people from your work who are from your new country. Meeting expats gives you an instant connection, and Spain is a country perfect for forming those friendships, however they may not know the best local hotspots or most interesting things to do in your area like someone native might. Finding friendship with local co-workers can help you to fully embrace national celebrations, join their families and become a part of the community.

Living in Spain- Marbella, 7 Bedrooms

This luxury villa, with incredible panoramic sea views, offers a contemporary design maximising the feeling of privacy. This villa features indoor and outdoor living with multiple dining areas, a fully fitted modern kitchen with a central island, leisure areas, a spa with an indoor pool and a large outdoor pool and lush subtropical gardens that create a sense of beauty and harmony.

Enjoying and capturing moments

Living in the moment is so important, especially at a time when so many people are glued to their smartphones. However, it’s important to try and capture some of the memories you are making when living in paradise. That could mean arming yourself with a trusty camera and bringing it out for special moments.

Imagine moving to somewhere like Thailand, which feels very much like a paradise, and having no physical memories of the wonderful times you have there. With such vibrancy running through Thailand, it’s important you capture every memory, from the delicious street food to Buddhist temples and beyond.

Perhaps you have just moved to South Africa and you wish to embrace its diverse wildlife. According to Lonely Planet, South Africa’s “national parks and game reserves are great places to experience true wilderness and get close to Africa's famous wildlife”. Grabbing the right camera gear could be the difference between a grainy shot of an elephant far in the distance or an artistic wildlife portrait you’re proud to display on your wall.

Living in Thailand - Ko Samui, 5 Bedrooms

Villa Amaze is an outstanding five bedroom, six bathroom Villa boasting 1,700sqm of stylish living. The Villa has been expertly designed to set the scene for the uninterrupted expanse of ocean that unfolds for what seems like an eternity. This simply incredible view is visible from every room within the villa providing a truly magnificent setting throughout. Boasting a truly unique setting, the magic is capitalized on by the abundance of glass that opens fully to the fresh air and extensive terraces. 

Develop your hobbies

With the goal of finding time to get away from work, one way you can spend that time is to develop your hobbies. Perhaps you took this job to achieve a sense of personal growth and if so, then there is no better time to achieve it than the present. There is a good chance that while your career is important, you have interests that lie outside of it.

No matter your hobby, there are likely to be ways for you to enjoy it while working abroad. And if there isn’t? You could always consider taking up something new. Finding yourself in unexplored territory, surrounded by new people, is the perfect opportunity to give a fresh activity a go, how about surfing in Australia?

Living in Australia - Claremont, 4 Bedrooms

This ultra-high-end four-bedroom, three living areas and executive office penthouse is located on the top of the Riverside building. With a total of 415 sq. m. of internal living space plus an expansive 177 sq. m. of balcony. You will be able to observe breath-taking river and city views from all livings areas, kitchen and master bedroom as well as spectacular views over the ocean of North and South Cottesloe, Fremantle and Scarborough.

Being a digital nomad

The pandemic brought heaps of misery and disruption to many people’s lives but there was an upside; remote working. In the UK, it’s predicted that more than two in five employees will have adopted hybrid working by 2023. Companies are now more willing to employ remote workers as well as give their employees more flexibility with hybrid working arrangements.

That ease with which many people can work remotely affords us a great opportunity to find a job that we love and work from anywhere in the world. Just think, you could continue your career path with a job based in the UK but you could work remotely and move to Portugal for fine wine and mountain regions.

Living in Portugal - Estoril, 6 Bedrooms

This spectacular property located in Quinta Patino, of contemporary architecture, comprises on the ground floor an entrance hall with double height ceilings, a spacious living room with terrace overlooking the stunning views of the estate gardens and the Palace of Quinta Patino, a dining room, TV room, terrace with barbecue and wood stove, large fully equipped modern kitchen, laundry, office and guest bathroom. Upstairs there are 4 suites and a master suite with a spacious closet and terrace, whirlpool bath and beautiful views. On the lower floor there is a fabulous leisure area that includes a gym, sauna, Turkish bath and indoor pool. All floors are connected by an elevator. The property also has a wine cellar and garage for eight cars.

Ready to take the plunge?

If you are considering moving abroad this summer, find one of our Fine & Country locations to help you get there. With over 300 locations worldwide, we are sure to have an expert in your area.

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