Many say it is all doom and gloom here, but looking aboard may be the best move you can make, says our expert Kim Brown. Revealing the possibility of finding a new life abroad may be all thats needed for some to break free of recession ridden Britain and set off on a new adventure in foreign lands

The New Year has started with a feeling of restlessness in the air. The global economy is unsettled, tensions are growing and anyone watching the news is left feeling helpless, empty and powerless. Many people feel that the time has come to make a move – a move that will hopefully allow for a better quality of life. Their thinking is that the recession is here for a couple of years and that they may as well ride out the storm overseas. 

In such uncertain times is it worthwhile to even think about leaving the UK? Is it realistic to dream about a life filled with sun and adventure – a brand new start that makes you want to get up and go…and truly live life to the full?

If you’ve often considered the idea of moving abroad, now may be just as good a time as any. Properties in the UK are not moving very fast so if you’re dependant on the proceeds of selling your UK property to make the move, that may prove a difficult obstacle to overcome. If, however, you have something set by in savings or have ongoing monthly earnings, if you can rent your UK property to generate an income or you’re able to secure work abroad, then there may be nothing stopping you from heading out to find the home and life that you have been dreaming of. 

The first step is to brainstorm a list of all the destinations you’re interested in living in. Once you have an idea of the country, you’ll need to research the process that will allow you to legally move there - this may include obtaining a visa or residence permit. Countries within the EU have varying requirements; however they’re usually more of a formality rather than an impediment, especially if you have an EU passport of your own. Some countries, however, have restrictions or adhere to a points system that restricts who can and cannot emigrate – they are often looking for professional or trades people for instance that are in demand within the country. For example, Canada and Australia are currently campaigning to recruit UK trades people.

Once you find a place that ticks all the boxes and you discover that you qualify to live there, it’s imperative to find out the full costs of living and buying a property. With a complete outline of living costs, you’ll then be able to determine if your income will enable you to live to the standard of life you’re accustomed to. Once you qualify for the move and your financial matters are arranged, it’s only a matter of gathering your courage and taking the plunge. No one is going to improve your life for you and it looks like our economic woes are here to stay for a while. I can’t help but feel that living in warmer weather, eating freshly grown food and looking out at sea views would go a long way to mitigating reports of impending doom and gloom from the UK.