1) Why Are You Moving?

• Lifestyle Change

Many choose to move abroad for the opportunity to embrace a new lifestyle. This could involve leaving the stresses of daily work behind and seeking a more relaxed, fulfilling life. There are many countries, like Portugal, Thailand and even Vietnam particularly popular due to their laid-back pace, friendly communities, and opportunities for exploration. Retiring abroad offers the chance to experience a different culture, learn new languages, and immerse yourself in a fresh environment. It’s the perfect time to follow your passions—whether it’s spending more time on hobbies, exploring new interests, or enjoying the outdoors. These lifestyle changes may help you feel rejuvenated and give you a sense of freedom and adventure that you might not experience in the UK. A fresh start.

• Cost of Living

For many, the ever increasing high cost of living in the UK makes retiring abroad an attractive option. Countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam, offer much lower living costs. You can enjoy comfortable living at a fraction of the cost of staying in the UK. Rent, food and utilities are often far more affordable, meaning your pension or savings stretch further. While cost should not be the sole deciding factor, for those looking to maximize their retirement income, relocating to a lower-cost country offers a chance to live a comfortable life while keeping costs under control. However, it's important to thoroughly research the cost of living in your destination before you make a commitment, ensuring that your funds will last as long as needed. Be honest when you start to do the sums. 

• Healthcare

One of the top concerns when moving abroad is access to healthcare. In many countries, healthcare is either more affordable or more accessible than in the UK. However, it’s important to ensure you’re adequately covered with health insurance, especially if you move to countries where public healthcare is limited. Some countries, like Vietnam, offer expat-friendly private insurance options that will ensure you get the medical care you need. Additionally, check to see if your destination country has a healthcare system that aligns with your needs, particularly for any pre-existing conditions. Personally I would not recommend or risk retiring abroad without health insurance in place.  

As a Brit you may be a little surprised how much health insurance may cost. I am insured with a company called Tanzing Pacific, they listened to my requirements and provided me a great competitive quote. Click on the link at the top of the page or click here and ask them for a quote. It doesn't cost anything to ask but could save you lots.

• Climate

If you’re weary of the cold UK winters, retiring abroad might offer the warm weather and climate you’ve always dreamed of. Countries like Vietnam offer year-round warmth with a tropical climate. Moving to a warmer climate can not only boost your mood but also have health benefits, such as reducing stress or even improving your mental well-being. However, it’s important to think about whether you can handle the local weather conditions—some places may experience extreme heat or humidity, which could be difficult if you have health issues or mobility concerns. I am still trying to adjust to the summer months here in Hanoi with temperatures of around 32-37 degrees. 

• Family Reasons

Another significant reason for moving abroad is to be closer to family or friends who live in other countries, or further away 😂😂   If you have children or relatives abroad, the move may present an opportunity to spend more time together. Additionally, joining an expat community can create a sense of belonging and ease the emotional transition. However, being far away from family in the UK could be emotionally challenging, and it’s essential to consider how this move might impact your relationships and support network.

II) Trial Run: Consider Spending 3–6 Months Abroad Before Committing

Before making the final decision to move abroad permanently, I would test the waters first, make sure you have at least visited the country and area you are considering. A trial run of 3–6 months can give you the time you need to evaluate the new lifestyle, the costs, and whether the destination feels like home. During this period, you’ll have the chance to:

•  Find Temporary Accommodation

Consider renting a short-term property (such as an Airbnb or serviced apartment) to test out the area and see if you’re comfortable with the living conditions. Temporary housing allows you to experience day-to-day life in a new place, without committing to a long-term rental contract. It’s also an opportunity to explore different neighbourhoods to determine where you’d like to live permanently. 

I had been to Hanoi 3 times previously so knew roughly where I wanted to stay, and probably more importantly where I didn't. 

• Budget Carefully

Living in a foreign country can introduce unexpected costs, so it’s essential to budget carefully during your trial period. Track your spending on daily necessities, healthcare, utilities, ATM fees, and leisure activities. This will help you understand how much money you’ll need to live comfortably and ensure that your finances will be sufficient for long-term living. Always allow for those unexpected costs and surprises too. Also if you get a Vietnamese girlfriend double what you were planning to spend. I hope she doesn't read this bit!!

• Evaluate the Local Culture and Community

In a short amount of time, you can also assess the local culture and community. Do the locals seem welcoming? Are there expat communities that might offer support? While cultural adjustment can take time, your trial period is an opportunity to gauge if the new country feels like a place where you can comfortably settle and make meaningful connections. 

In the UK I was a self employed table tennis coach and had played since I was 14, so it was important for me to find a club that I could continue my love of the sport and find something to do when finally retired. 

• Assess Healthcare and Insurance Options

Evaluate the healthcare system in your trial location. Are the healthcare facilities easily accessible? Does your health insurance cover you internationally? If your destination has a private health insurance system, try to get an understanding of the costs and coverage to make sure it meets your needs.

I visited 6 months before I actual moved. I made sure I found dentists, opticians and pharmacies that could supply my medications, did I need a prescription etc. 

 III.  Support Network: Will You Be Near Family, Friends, or an Expat Community?

Having a strong support network abroad is essential for emotional well-being. Before moving abroad, assess whether you’ll be near family and friends, or if you’ll need to build a new support system.

• Expat Communities

Research the presence of expat communities in your destination. Many countries, especially those that are popular with retirees, have thriving expat communities that can provide social support. Social groups, clubs, and online forums are a great way to connect with like-minded people who are also adjusting to life in a new country. These communities can offer practical advice, emotional support, and friendship, helping ease your transition. Look up Facebook groups while you are planning these sites provide a wealth of knowledge and insight. 

•  Building Local Relationships

While it’s comforting to have expats nearby, integrating into the local culture is equally important. By building relationships with locals, you can gain a deeper understanding of the country, its customs, and its people. Learning the local language and engaging in community activities is a great way to form these bonds.

As I mentioned previously I found and joined a table tennis club and go twice a week and have made friends there. Ok still a language barrier but I have always found sport to be a great way to communicate and mix.

• Stay Connected with Family and Friends

In the digital age, staying in touch with family and friends back home is easier than ever. Apps like WhatsApp and Zoom allow you to stay connected through voice and video calls, sharing updates and maintaining strong relationships, even from afar. But, keep in mind, maintaining physical visits or interactions might require travel plans and budgeting for occasional trips back to the UK.

IV.  Health & Mobility: Access to Medical Care and Your Ability to Adapt to New Environments

It’s vital to consider how moving abroad will affect your health and mobility. Access to medical care and your own ability to adapt physically and mentally to a new environment should be high on your list of priorities.

• Healthcare Access

Check how accessible healthcare is in your destination country. In countries with an affordable or public healthcare system, retirees often have the benefit of lower medical costs compared to private healthcare in the UK. Ensure that your health needs will be met, especially if you have chronic conditions or need specialized care. 

Before I left the UK I had an eye operation and with the help of the Specialist Eye Consultant in my local hospital who carried out the operation I managed to find a contact of a recommended Eye specialist in Vietnam I could go and see for regular check ups and if there were any side effects following my operation. Talk about everything falling in line when I was planning on retiring abroad, a country the size of Vietnam, over 1000 miles long, the expert that was recommended to me just happened to work in a Hanoi hospital just 20 minutes from where I rent an apartment. 

• Some countries may have an expat-friendly insurance program that allows you to have medical coverage while abroad.

• Health Insurance

Even if healthcare in your destination is affordable, it’s crucial to have health insurance in place. The cost of medical emergencies or serious health issues can be high without coverage, and international health insurance will ensure that you are covered for a variety of situations, from routine care to unforeseen emergencies.  If you are looking for a policy that suits you and is affordable click on the link in the banner at the top of this page, Tanzing Pacific will happily provide you a competitive quote.

• Mobility Considerations

Consider your mobility and the lifestyle changes that moving abroad entails. Some countries may have more accessible transportation systems, such as public transit or easy access to taxis, while others may require more walking or driving. If you have health issues that affect your mobility, ensure that the country you choose has the necessary infrastructure and medical support.

If you every see any pictures of videos of Vietnam and other South Asian countries, the paths are not used as they traditionally are in the UK. They are an opportunity here to put out tables and chairs and attract more paying customers to their street food shops. UK Health & Safety Exec would have a field day!