Hi - we are a young family with 2 boys aged 3 and 1, both working, both feel there must be more to life than what we experience now. We would be hoping to relocate to somewhere with good year round climate, good education, english speaking, relatively low crime (compared to UK) friendly locals who welcome expats from UK, outdoors lifestyle for our boys to grow up and enjoy our time together.
The big q is where? we don't know where to start (me here is the first step i guess since we have come to the conclusion we can do this!). We have friends in both Oz and NZ - and they have positives to tell us, we like the idea of both but the distance is the showstopper for me presently, looking in EU, Italy (Tuscany looks beautiful) - we like some parts of the the US but getting in seems difficult and crime / drugs is an issue (maybe not in the more rural regions?).
Any advice on where to go to get more info, first hand info on the above points - all feedback gratefully received.

Hi Thepads,

Welcome to the forum.

Have a look around the country specific forums for the countries that you are looking at since there is heaps of info here.

If you have any questions on Oz I will try to help since that's where I am, having moved out from the UK in July 2007.

Regards,
Karen

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"And remember, no matter where you go, there you are " - Confucius

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Hi have you thought of Cyprus Eu, most speak english, low crime,large expat ,Good year round weather english school(or will take them at local)
4-5 hrs flight.Snow in montains in winter 18 by the cost.
Tricia

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www.cyprusnancy.piczo.com

Hi thepads,

Welcome to the forum and good luck with your search. I would re-think the part where you say "English speaking" - this really narrows your search. Your children are so young, that learning another language would be a doddle and they will have a great advantage in life.

Michelle

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www.expatsinargentina.ning.com

A wonderful place to live

What line of work are you in? have you considered Dubai?

thanks guys for the responses, food for thought. My husband works at sea and can be various locations offshore, so for him any part of the world can be his oyster. I'm in travel currently, but not so important for me, Dubai sounds an interesting thought, i've been years ago and liked it v much. also Cyprus - been on hol there a long time ago.
time for us to get some reading in on specific places where we can investigate schools, healthcare, prime areas etc. thanks x

Good, luck lots to think about when you have a family.
All the best Tricia

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www.cyprusnancy.piczo.com

Hi there. Just curious - where did you end up ?

I have spent 2 years in Cyprus and two years as a liveabord on a boat. Last year I cruised Canada and Alaska and now I am south and I do believe I have found my own paradise.


Andy

I Went to NZ from UK in the early seventies then moved to Australa in 2000. Now I wish I had come to Australia years ago. I ried going back to UK and worked there for two years before returning to Aussie. I would shoot myself before I ever had to live inUK again. With a young family I would recommend Australia. The opportunity for advancement are huge if you want it.

In my opinion, the best place for your family is certainly a place you guys love. Answer these questions and discover for yourself:
1. Where would you like to be buried if you die today?
2. If you had no money problems, where would you love to vacate with your family and friends
3. All things being equal, what makes your home a home?
4. Where could this home be?
5. Is this just a fantasy home or is this home a dream that you could materialize? If yes, Where?

Hope your answers answered your question.
Thank you.