American Expats Celebrating Thanksgiving Abroad

American expatriates who grew up enjoying the smells and tastes of roasted turkey and mashed potatoes may feel particularly homesick and nostalgic during Thanksgiving week. The holiday is a uniquely American one, with the exception perhaps of Canada (which celebrates it a month earlier), and Americans abroad will undoubtedly have a difficult time making the traditional feast anywhere else.

Turkey is, after all, a North American bird. Maize, potatoes and squashes originate in the Americas too. Although all of these Thanksgiving day hallmarks have been exported around the world, their distribution can be significantly more sparse, depending on the location.

Expats anxious to celebrate the holiday may have some tough going, but here’s some advice on how you can quench that nostalgia.

(1) While Thanksgiving is unique to North America, harvest festivals in various forms have been celebrated for millenia all around the world. Try to incorporate a local harvest festival with your Thanksgiving traditions.

(2) Plan ahead of time to order your favorite Thanksgiving day foods, possibly shipping them in from afar. In many places, it’s still possible to ship in that whole turkey if you can’t find it locally.

(3) Get together with other American expats who share your nostalgia. Introduce locals to your own traditions.

(4) Incorporate foreign foods into making your own new Thanksgiving tradition. Especially for those living in the Southern Hemisphere, or in the tropics: Fall foods simply aren’t available come Thanksgiving time. But you do have a plethora of local, exotic foods equally worth being thankful for!

Top 10 Most Expensive Cities for Expats

Although there are often perks and glamour associated with living in some of the world’s most expensive cities, here at expatify.com we like to encourage people to find a more personal niche where their dollars can still take them a long way, especially in these economic times. Thanks to the Mercer Cost of Living Survey, we can help start the process of elimination for fiscal expats and budget travelers contemplating their next move.

Here’s a list of the 10 most expensive cities for expats in the world:

10. Milan, Italy

9. Zurich, Switzerland

8. Geneva, Switzerland

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

6. Hong Kong, China

5. Seoul, South Korea

4. Oslo, Norway

3. London, UK

2. Tokyo, Japan

1. Moscow, Russia

Third World Economics, Easy as a Handshake

Remember the time when trust and honor qualified you for a line of credit, rather than the swirling cold complexities of your credit score? I bet you don’t. But in the Third World, that’s still mostly how credit is established, according to James L. Tate at Escape from America Magazine.

If you’re an aspiring expat looking to move or retire to a remote location far away from the current global mess, you’d do well to follow the tips outlined in the article.

And for those of you who are fed up and looking to trade that First World ecomonic headache for a handshake instead, expatriating might just be the relief you need.

Top 10 Cheapest Cities for Expats

Not too long ago, we posted a guide to the top 10 most expensive cities for expats, calculated via the Mercer Cost of Living Survey. Well that was before discovering the incredibly handy Xpatulator: The Expatriate Calculator, an online service which calculates the cost of living abroad specifically for the expat. How great is that?

After tinkering around on it for a bit, it was clear that the logical next step would be to offer a guide to the top 10 cheapest cities in the world for expats.

Here’s how the following rankings work. Next to each location on the list will be a number in parentheses. That number represents the USD cost of goods and services in that city relative to the cost of the same $100 USD worth of goods and services here at home. Got it?

The site calculates the cost of living from a diverse range of 276 cities worldwide. You might be surprised how cheap it can still be in some places to live abroad! Here’s the list:

10. Tashkent, Uzbekistan (56.06)

9. Asmara, Eritrea (54.49)

8. La Paz, Bolivia (53.54)

7. Buenos Aires, Argentina (53.25)

6. Quito, Ecuador (53.23)

5. Tripoli, Libya (53.22)

4. Dushanbe, Tajikistan (51.24)

3. Sanaa, Yemen (44.95)

2. Phnom Penh, Cambodia (44.89)

1. Harare, Zimbabwe (16.44)

Expats More Likely to Fall Prey to Rental Scams, Rogue Agents

According to reporting out of AsiaOne, expats have become increasingly more likely to be swindled by rogue rental agents or encounter rental scams in Singapore. You can bet that the statistics are similar elsewhere too. If you’re an expat abroad– especially if you don’t speak the native language well– then you should exercise elevated caution whenever you engage in a business or monetary transaction.

The Consumers Association of Singapore has reported a 23% increase in real estate complaints filed by foreigners there. The increase may be due to the global recession, though foreigners have always been targets for dodgy tenancy agreements and disappearing deposits, said the report.

One crucial thing concerned expats in Singapore can do to avoid falling victim to such scams is to always make sure agents are CEHA-certified. That stands for the Common Examination for House Agents. Elsewhere, always look for what kinds of regulatory organizations exist and stick with them exclusively. The best way to avoid tricky landlords is to put them out of business.

Most Suitable Countries for American Expatriates

As much as we may aspire toward expatriatism for the exotic and venturesome, there’s no question that our exhilarating lives abroad can also bring feelings of isolation. There are times when being far away from home, and distant from family and friends, can weigh on our minds and atrophy our intrepid spirits.

That’s why for many of us it may be helpful to consider expatriating to a country that has a healthy combination of exoticism and familiarity; a place that’s compatible with where we’re from.

So in this vein, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 most suitable countries for American expatriates!

10. Costa Rica

Costa Rica has perhaps the most stable government in Central America, and since it’s been premised upon a proven democracy for at least the last 60 years, things are run there in a familiar way for Americans. That might be what makes Costa Rica one of the most popular destinations in the world for American expatriates. It doesn’t hurt that it’s not too far away from home either, not to mention the low cost of living.

In fact, if you’re ever feeling lonely, there’ll never be a shortage of Americans on vacation to remind you of home.

9. South Africa

South Africa has been steadily growing in popularity for American tourists, especially for students studying abroad. It’s far away from America, sure– but South Africa has that perfect combination of exoticism and familiarity. Of course, it helps that they speak english! You can start your day with an English breakfast and then finish it on a wildlife safari. It doesn’t get much better than that.

8. Mexico

Some might think Mexico is a little too close to home, but that’s also what makes it so convenient for Americans. In fact, Mexico undoubtedly houses more American expatriates than any other country in the world. Combined with the low cost of living and the intense familiarity of the culture to any American from the Southwestern United States, Mexico makes a cozy destination for the weary yankee.

7. Spain

Spain has a lower cost of living compared with central and northern Europe. Mix that with its dynamic location and lively culture and it’s clear why Spain has become a top destination for expats from around the world. The European culture will be familiar and accessible for Americans, and getting around speaking only english should be a breeze.

Spain also has historical and cultural wealth that’ll keep any expat’s mind afloat. Also, it’s become an extremely popular destination for college students.

6. Brazil

With Brazil’s burgeoning worldpower economy and the steady need for english teachers, it’s become a favorite location for American expats. That stable economy means jobs, and the cost of living in Brazil is still fairly low. The culture is diverse, yet remarkably friendly to Americans, and it’s another country with just the right mix of exoticism and familiarity.

Compared with most other South American countries, it’s easier to get around here speaking only english.

5. Italy

Italy’s appeal is similar to that of Spain’s on this list, but with Italy you get just a little bit more. The cultural history is magnificant here, there’s a stronger American expat presence, and in just about every city or town with a university you’ll find American college students studying abroad. And come on– it’s Italy!

4. Australia

Randy Newman once joked of Australia, “[America's] building its own American amusement park there.” Indeed, Australian culture will easily be the most familar to the American among this list. English-speaking, BBQing, beer drinking Australia has a lot to offer the American. But with Australia you get a little more of the rugged and adventurous.

It also helps that the Australian dollar still comes at a good exchange rate. And they’ve got surfing too!

3. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is among the cheapest places for Americans to live in Europe, and there’s always a high demand here for english teachers. Those factors alone might make it the most suitable country in Europe for American expats.

It doesn’t hurt that it’s a beautiful country with a rich cultural history. People here are particularly friendly to Americans, and positioned right in the middle of Europe, you’re just a train ride away from everything the continent has to offer.

2. Thailand

Thailand’s culture might be less familiar to Americans than any other on this list, but the country makes up for it in every other category. Thanks to the Amity Treaty of 1968, American companies have to jump through fewer hoops than any other nationality to operate here. The people are exceptionally kind and welcoming, cost of living is cheap and there’s a continuous and voracious need for english teachers. Thailand puts out a serious effort to lure the American expat. As much as you want to go there, they want you to stay even more.

It’s become one of the top places in Asia for American tourists, youth backpackers and, of course, expats. Admittedly, it also gets extra points for closest resembling paradise. You’ll instantly forget where you came from the moment you step off that plane.

1. Argentina

First and foremost, Buenos Aires made our list for one of the cheapest cities in the world for American expats to live in. That gives this beautiful, diverse, and inexorably friendly country major props on this list too. Among South American countries, getting around here speaking English is relatively simple, and the cultural wealth is the only thing that matches its landscape.

Argentina is receptive to Americans. It’s a top location for students, and the standard of living relative to the cost of living is unmatched. There’s no surprise why American expats are flocking here, and we recommend you do the same. Argentina strikes just the right balance among all the things considered among this list.

Tips for Retiring Abroad On Less Than $30,000 a Year

US World News & Report has put up a helpful article outlining 8 tips for an affordable retirement abroad. Retirees in this economy are increasingly looking overseas, where favorable exchange rates can allow for a more comfortable retirement than can be found at home.

In short, the article offers solid advice, such as how to pick the place that’s best for you and your pocketbook, practicing that foreign accent and most importantly, embracing the relaxed life.

And let’s face it– it’s far more adventurous than spending your final years lingering about in a Florida subdivision!

The Best Places to Teach English Abroad

As native English speakers, we all automatically possess one skill that’s always in demand abroad, and teaching English remains one of the best ways to fund your overseas expat lifestyle.

If you’re just getting started looking for the best places and programs to teach for, the internet scene can be a bit overwhelming. Of course, you have to be careful for shoddy promises, scams, and programs which end up costing more money than they’re worth. But with the right research and planning, there are bountiful opportunities to live comfortably and even save money on an English teacher’s salary alone.

While there are opportunities almost anywhere, there are a few countries where the demand is always high and the pay is consistently good. If you’re open-ended with your destination, you might want to consider one of these places first:

Saudi Arabia:

This remains the most lucrative place to teach English abroad. Some teachers can potentially reel in upward of $75,000 a year. There are some downsides, though. The best paying positions are found in remote locations for more elite clientele, isolated from the real culture and people of Saudi Arabia. That basically means that nightlife is nil and the experience is often diluted. Still, if you’re looking to get paid a lot and save money for more extensive travels later, it’s hard to ignore a salary like that.

Thailand:

There’s no shortage of opportunity for teaching English in the Land of Smiles, and it’s not a bad gig to be living in paradise. The only downside is that finding a good paying position can be difficult. Salaries for teachers are lower here, and putting money away for a lifestyle away from the classroom isn’t always easy.

Japan:

The Japanese are constantly begging for native English speakers, and the pay can be generous. The only catch? Life in Japan can be expensive, and the higher paychecks quickly get siphoned off for that higher cost of living.

Czech Republic:

If you’re looking to teach in Europe, the Czech Republic remains the best place to look for opportunities. The positives are that there’s relative ease of entry and, well, you’re in the Czech Republic! Remember when Prague was called the Paris of the 90’s? It’s still a choice location, and an expat’s dream. Though as always, make sure to balance out those living expenses with the salary you’re given.

China:

Let’s be honest, you can go almost anywhere in Asia as an English teacher. But programs for teaching in China have been expanding exponentially in the last decade, paychecks are competitive, and the perks are undeniable: many programs may even cover your airfare.

South Korea:

If you look up ‘teaching English abroad’, you’ll undoubtedly be inundated with more offers to teach in Korea than anywhere else. It remains the heavyweight champion of luring and demanding native English speakers. All in all, you have to be careful to research the program, as scams are prevalent, but lucrative opportunities are numerous. Aside from some of the bigger cities like Seoul, the ratio between cost of living and salary is exceptional in South Korea.

More Laid Off Americans Are Looking Overseas for Work

Laid off? With the economy likely to get worse before it gets better, your best opportunities for finding employment might be overseas.

That’s what laid off IBM workers have been doing. As IBM announces more layoffs for employees in the U.S., they’ve been adding jobs in developing countries such as India. In fact, the company has been offering to pay for the transitional costs of moving for their former employees if they opt for the move.

The news marks the turn of a new leaf as the global economy matures and expands. While previously the best option for ambitious job seekers in the developing world was to travel across the globe for a job– usually into the U.S.– now it’s Americans who are thinking globally to find work.

Here at expatify, we think these events are better embraced than feared.

In fact, despite common misconceptions, the transition is more likely to improve your standard of living than sacrifice it. Undoubtedly, developing economies aren’t going to offer the same high salaries you expect from employment in the developed world, but when the cost of living is taken into consideration, that smaller salary can take you a lot further than the higher salary ever did back home.

Taking India as an example, positive accounts are coming from those who have already made the big move. According to one marketing executive now working in Delhi, it’s easy to cut costs there. Healthcare is top notch and bottom dollar, and she has even been able to hire people to cook and clean for her, shoring up more family time.

Expatriating for Marriage: A Very Brief Guide

Over at transitionsabroad.com, there’s an insightful article by Tamula Drumm on why expats marry foreigners and what to expect from such marriages.

After spending enough time abroad, immersed in another culture and language, visiting home can often lead to reverse culture shock and disconnect for expats. How many people back home can identify with how being abroad has changed our lives?

It’s therefore no surprise that expats are more likely to marry foreigners. The experience of being a foreigner is a powerful force which brings people together, and it’s often easier for us to connect with people who understand our new life, or people who have themselves moved from home. The bond between foreigners can be so strong that it can bring expats together even if they’re from radically different origins.

Of course, there are important practical matters to consider before marrying abroad too. The article, which you should check out here, also outlines some of the pitfalls of expat marriage which you might want to be careful for.

All in all, there may be no better reason to expatriate than to do it for love.

Should Travelers Change Their Plans Because of Swine Flu?

Concern and panic over swine flu outbreaks worldwide may be keeping a lot of travelers and aspiring expats at home. But we think you should reconsider.

Although there is minimal reason for heightened alarm, the chances of contracting the swine flu are still extremely unlikely. In fact, if you’re a U.S. citizen, you are probably less likely to contract the swine flu by traveling or living anywhere else, aside from Mexico.

Confirmed cases within the U.S.– and the rest of the world– are so low compared to the population at large that if you don’t have any reason to believe you’ll be directly exposed (if there weren’t confirmed cases at your school, place of work, or social/family network), worrying about contracting the disease at this point would be fairly irrational.

And this still holds even if you’re planning a trip to Mexico, where the swine flu outbreak has originated and had the largest impact. The outbreaks in Mexico are mostly centralized in large urban areas such as in Mexico City. At the time of writing this, there were about 2,500 suspected cases of swine flu reported in the whole of Mexico. Taking only the population of Mexico City into consideration, that would mean you’d have a 0.03% chance of contracting the swine flu. And again, that’s only if you were at the very center of the outbreak.

The odds fall by so much everywhere else in the world that it’s simply not worth changing any plans for.

Naturally at any early stage of an outbreak like this, there is concern that it could continue to spread, and spread exponentially. But at this time, that’s simply not the case. If you’re traveling to an area of high risk, exercise precautions. For the most part, though, there’s no reason to overreact.

Why Expatriating with Kids Is Not Just About Finding a Good School

Are you working for an international, military, missionary or diplomatic organization? Or maybe you are simply a citizen of the world traveling from one country to another year after year?

Then chances are you have or will have third culture kids (TCKs). According to sociologist David Pollock, “a third culture kid is a person who has spent a significant part of his or her developmental years outside their parents’ culture. The TCK builds relationships to all of the cultures, while not having full ownership of any.”

The idea of having your child growing up as a TCK may first be pretty appealing to you. After all, not everyone can be proud of developing specific cross-cultural skills in addition to observational, social or linguistic ones. TCKs are 4 times more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree, they are more mature, more welcoming… We can keep on listing benefits for hours. But too often we forget that challenges are huge too. 90% of TCKs don’t feel in sync with their peers. They don’t understand the average American as well as other peoples. And last but not least, risks of depression and suicide thoughts and attempts are higher for TCKs.

In fact it’s just recently that organizations started to take into account the challenges of returning home for these kids. Parents can now find help to build strong foundations for their kids, to deal with transitions, meet educational needs, and manage re-entry to the country.

A first step could be to read “According to my passport I’m coming home“, a guide from the US Family Liaison Office, or to visit the resourceful website of TCKID, an unincorporated non-profit organization and active community for TCKs, Adult Third Culture Kids (ATCKs), and Cross Cultural individuals. With this you can be aware of what challenges you and your kids will have to face and be positive about your kids future. After all, one of the world most famous adult TCK happens to be the US president!

7 Tips To Grow Your Network Instantly

When arriving in a new country, we all do the same things: first we discover our new environment, we follow a long and boring to-do list of administrative tasks, and finally we do our best to meet people and build a new network of friends and colleagues.

Of course computers help a lot nowadays but it is also very important to get out and see people face to face if you want to benefit from expatriation! So how do you start from scratch and build a strong network you can rely on in record times?

1. Start at work: depending on the culture in your country of destination, you can easily spend some time with your colleagues and get to know each other during business hours. French people are famous for their one-hour lunch, a great opportunity to start a non-business conversation. And don’t forget to ask them how the week-end was on Monday mornings…
2. Volunteer: Are you unemployed? Or maybe you have a lot of spare time during your week-ends… Why not volunteer for a charity or a professional organization? This could be a great way to feel useful while meeting many different people.
3. Take a class: Find out more about the local culture with a cooking or wine class, learn a new language, try a new team sport, be part of a hiking or photography group to discover the surroundings… Possibilities are endless!
4. Look for help: Chances are you are not the only one trying to meet other people. Ask you local chamber of commerce when they organize networking mixers, check if the city is not proposing services to newcomers… many local or international structures are usually here for you, you just need to find them.
5. Online: You have so many opportunities to chat with a group of people living close to you! You can check Facebook, linkedin, twitter, meetup… It’s very easy to find groups having common interests and they often get together on a weekly or monthly basis
6. Religious and political groups are also worth a try but keep in mind that these topics can be very personal depending on where you are. Check what local habits are first to avoid any faux pas.
7. Get out! Rely on your kids, your dog, your neighborhood… They are all very easy conversation starters. Always mention where you come from and why you are here as people will remember you more easily. Plus you never know what people could have in common with you and what you could get from a simple “how are you doing?”

What’s the One Thing All Expats Should be Doing?

As an expat, you’re likely absorbed in the fact that you’re living the dream. Your time should probably be spent living it: adventuring, indulging in new experiences, meeting new people and engaging with the unknown. When you’re not living it, you’re probably blogging or twittering about it, making jealous and enticing all your friends stuck back home, encouraging others to join you abroad.

But aside from having the time of your life, what’s the single most important thing expats everywhere should be doing?

Well, according to an article on shelteroffshore.com, that one thing is saving for your retirement. Sound boring? Well, yes… but it’s still probably good advice nonetheless.

All of the fun you’re having could be temporary if you don’t prepare properly for the future, and the only thing we advocate more than having fun is having fun permanently.

Check out the article for more extensive advice here. And yes, that goes for you expats in your 20’s or 30’s too.

Tips for Traveling with a Toddler without Losing Your Mind on the Plane

The biggest long distance flight nightmare? Being seated next to a toddler.

Noise, tantrums, unidentified flying objects… Kids, parents and the rest of passengers always have a hard time surviving in these conditions. It’s even worse when you add the stress and workload of expatriation.

So when the little one is yours, what can you do to make it easier for everyone?

1. Know the rules: get information about child safety seats, and check customs rules to make sure the food and drinks you plan to bring will be allowed. Ask your airline company about what will be on board for your little one and what specific procedures apply to you.

2. When booking your flight, consider flying during the night or nap time, and choose a nonstop flight. And ask for 1st row seats, where you will have more space.

3. Arrive early, and get prepared for security checks. Get in the plane first to ensure all the space you need for your stuff.

4. Dress for comfort, pick dark colors that will hide spots, and plan to have an extra outfit for everyone– and PJ’s for kids for evening flights.

5. Toddlers are often on the move and getting them to sit still for hours can be a real challenge. Pack little backpacks with crafts, new surprise toys, some old favorites, and books. For 2 year old kids and older, consider bringing a DVD player with their favorite movies. Also pack plenty of snacks, but stay away from sugar and juices!

6. Look for play areas in airports during layovers and make sure to let them run as much as they want. If you are lucky, they will be tired and fall asleep once in the plane.

7. Make sure you take two small bags that can fit under the seat in front of you rather than a big one that has to stay in the overhead compartment.

8. Relieve ear pain during take-off and landing: have kids drink water or give a pacifier to younger ones.

9. Keep in mind that airplanes have very dry air. Everyone should drink more water than usual during the entire flight.

10. Travel light: get what you need at your destination, thanks to baby supply rentals– a convenient solution while waiting for your belongings coming by freight.

How to Deal with Expatriation without Putting Love in Peril

For 2 out of 3 couples, the spouse’s inability to adapt to a new environment causes expatriate assignments to fail*.

Difficulties don’t always have geographical or cultural origins: a new social environment, uncertainty about the future and relocation increases stress on all family members. But stress factors are usually very different for each of them, and may include isolation, feelings of disorientation, lack of power and the need to adapt to a new professional environment.

Communication during expatriation is often very hard between the one who works and the one who doesn’t. Priorities and daily issues can be so different that confusion and discomfort in relationships grow inevitably. If nothing is done to understand each other, this situation leads to a disconnect and in some cases to divorce. 27% of divorced expatriates acknowledged that the expatriation was partly responsible for their separation*.

So what can you do to prevent that?

First, consider signing up for longer term assignments as they are associated with lower stress levels.

When organizing your move, don’t just stay focused on logistics. Spend more time together, discuss individual goals and common objectives. Ask one another about dreams, fears and how you can support each other during the relocation and adaptation phases.

But remember to discuss your feelings only when the other one is ready to hear you. Instead of giving your to-do list to a tired hubby just coming back from work (and vice versa!), agree on an appropriate moment for both of you.

Keep in mind that when relocating to a new country, expatriates usually go through 3 phases:

First is the honey moon phase, which includes discoveries, excitement and activities related to your arrival. Then it’s culture shock: after 3 to 6 months of adventures, moods can abruptly shift toward low spirits or even lead to a nervous breakdown. The last phase is adjustment to a new environment.

The second phase, culture shock– which can last up to one year– is the most dangerous phase, and some people may need help in preventing harm to their self-esteem, which can include strong pessimism and even somatic symptoms like pains or allergies. Again, communication is key to overcoming the difficulties. Learn from others and yourself, mature and become stronger.

If, despite all your efforts, you end up being single, stay positive. According to a 2008 survey, more than 50% of expatriates find love abroad*!

7 Ideal Ways to Make Extra Money While Living Abroad

One thing we like to advocate for here is that living abroad is something anyone can do, at all levels of financial security. Sure, a lifestyle on the move can be easier if you’ve got a thick wallet. But the notion of “traveling broke” isn’t the oxymoron that so many people presuppose.

In fact, there are a number of easy ways to make decent money while you’re globetrotting or living abroad which anyone can pick up and do.

And even if you’re already financed, a little extra money on the side never hurts, right? Thus, here’s a roundabout list of 7 ideals ways to earn some extra cash while abroad:

Travel Writing and Journalism

Back home, there are scores of people wishing they were out living somewhere else, aching to live vicariously through you. Help us to inspire expatification by becoming a travel writer. We know you’ve got stories to tell, might as well get paid for telling them.

Photography and Videography

Thanks to modern technology, you don’t have to be a professional to take some stunning photographs. As they say, a picture contains a thousand words– and it takes far less time to produce it too. Coffee shops around the world would love to enchant their guests with images taken in exotic places.

If you’ve got video capabilities, even better. Put together a documentary or a travel guide and publish it online.

Teach

Living abroad doesn’t just mean that you’ve had experiences which you could share and teach to people back home. As a foreigner you’ve always got information to offer to people in your host country too. Most notably, you can speak and teach English. But depending upon where you are and what you have experience in, there may be opportunities to teach other skills too, such as business strategy, agricultural practice, or cooking. No matter where you are, there’s never a shortage of people who want to learn.

Au Pair

Au pairing has steadily become a great way for young women (and occasionally men too) to travel and live abroad. Babysitting or nannying are always in need somewhere, and if you like kids it can be a really rewarding way to experience a place and culture. Isn’t that what traveling is all about anyway, keeping young and curious in spirit?

Running A Website

The dot com boom might be ancient history, but there are still an endless array of ways to make money on the internet. The sky is the limit here. If you have an idea for a website that’ll drive traffic, there are few ways of making an easier extra few bucks a month. Of course, there’s also always ebay and online sales. Or better yet, incorporate another skill such as your writings or video journalism and distribute them on a website.

Online Poker

We don’t recommend this unless you know what you’re doing, but playing poker online is something that you can do from anywhere, and for many it has become a steady source of extra income. Poker professionals insist that playing poker isn’t gambling; though of course, they’re also expert bluffers. Regardless, if you think you can play well, there’s certainly no shortage of suckers worldwide who are lining up online to fund your exotic adventures abroad.

Nonprofit/Volunteering

Okay, so the spirit of volunteering isn’t about making extra money. In fact, it’s pretty much the opposite of that. But we’re content ending this list by recommending that the best reward is doing something for others. It’s all about making money for your soul. Soul money.

There are always great opportunities for volunteering everywhere. That said, there are often good paying jobs abroad working in the nonprofit sector too. Do a little good for the world, and it pays. Try it!

Reminder to Expats: Don’t Be a Bonehead

A Scottish expatriate living in Spain was recently banned from driving there after being caught speeding at 169mph, the fastest speed ever recorded on a Granada motorway.

We think this is an appropriate time to remind expats everywhere our first rule of expatriatism: Don’t be a bonehead. You aren’t Jason Bourne. Understandably, there’s a sense of freedom you can get from being a foreigner in another country that’s exhilarating and carefree. But remember that you’re representing people from your home country too.

And besides, the man was fined a staggering £3,000 for the offense, on top of now needing to hire a driver.

How To Be Jason Bourne

We know that every aspiring expat secretly imagines themselves as Jason Bourne. You’re not alone. And now due to Neil Strauss’ book, Emergency: This Book Will Save Your Life, you too can learn how to acquire multiple passports, covertly manage a Swiss bank account, and cross borders– legally!

Though we’re a little skeptical about the legality part of it, it’s worth picking up a copy, if not just to entertain your own Bourne fantasy.

In fact, you can get a quick sneak peak of the advice in the book by checking out Tim Ferriss’ blog entry, which outlines many of the book’s key points.

To the extent that the Bourne movies have inspired dreams of expatriating for thousands, we’re also encouraged to report that a forth Bourne movie is slated to be released in 2010. Word has it that this time Bourne will be evading havok down in South America. Hopefully it’ll be better than the 4th Indiana Jones movie, which also took place down south. Thankfully there’s no news yet that Bourne is plotted to battle any aliens.

How To Be Jason Bourne

We know that every aspiring expat secretly imagines themselves as Jason Bourne. You’re not alone. And now due to Neil Strauss’ book, Emergency: This Book Will Save Your Life, you too can learn how to acquire multiple passports, covertly manage a Swiss bank account, and cross borders– legally!

Though we’re a little skeptical about the legality part of it, it’s worth picking up a copy, if not just to entertain your own Bourne fantasy.

In fact, you can get a quick sneak peak of the advice in the book by checking out Tim Ferriss’ blog entry, which outlines many of the book’s key points.

To the extent that the Bourne movies have inspired dreams of expatriating for thousands, we’re also encouraged to report that a forth Bourne movie is slated to be released in 2010. Word has it that this time Bourne will be evading havok down in South America. Hopefully it’ll be better than the 4th Indiana Jones movie, which also took place down south. Thankfully there’s no news yet that Bourne is plotted to battle any aliens.