Now more than ever, Americans are considering a move abroad. If you’re planning your own move but worry about missing friends and family, these “vacation cities” have so much to offer that you’ll have to have an extra bedroom.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
There’s more than just sunny beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Found on Mexico’s Pacific coast, the city welcomes you to experience its vibrant nightlife, music festivals, and traditional Mexican cuisine. Spots like Mandala Puerto Vallarta and La Palapa Restaurant will have you pushing back your return flight.
Oslo, Norway
Love the outdoors but also value city life? Oslo is the place to be. Explore its waterfronts in the evenings after spending the day hopping between fjord islands off the coast. This Scandinavian spot is rich in culture, too, from its Munch art museum to 5,000 concerts and festivals hosted annually.
Tirana, Albania
Albania’s capital stands out among many European cities because of its colorful buildings. Edi Rama, prime minister and respected artist, launched this building painting program to reclaim his country’s culture after the communist regime ended. You’re sure to find hope in a brighter future after taking a walking tour around the city during your visit. Albania even lets you stay up to a year, visa-free, if you need more time to explore.
Berlin, Germany
Much like the final city on our list, Berlin’s melting pot is a haven for subcultures. Extensive public transportation options and widespread English use makes it easy to get around the city for the day’s festivals. Berlin’s a great hub for more extensive travel around Europe, too; you’ll find cheap airfare and trains to any Euro destination you could imagine.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Foodies on the lookout for a long getaway and tons of options will love Copenhagen. It’s got a robust street food scene and has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other Scandinavian city. If you’re looking to put down roots and meet likeminded people, be sure to take the Danish classes, offered free for expats.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon just might be the sunniest city this side of San Diego. With 10 months of sunshine each year, it’s almost always a great time to explore the Atlantic coast in this historic place. Once you’ve had your fill of the francesinha—a sandwich of layered beef, topped with cheese and beer sauce—you’ll want to see the sights on one of many tuk-tuk tours.
Expatsi returns to Lisbon and other Portuguese cities on its next scouting trip in September 2024. You can find the details here.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Malbec and meat lovers, rejoice! While Argentina overall is known for these two exports, travelers in the know call Buenos Aires “the Paris of the South” for its European architecture, international culture and expansive art scene. Between the museums and tango lessons, there’s plenty to keep you coming back for more in this welcoming city.
Accra, Ghana
Ever since their Year of Return campaign launched in 2019, Ghana has welcomed Americans home with open arms. Educate yourself on Ghana’s history by touring Independence Square and the W.E.B. Dubois Center in the heart of Accra. After exploring the open-air Makola Market for local treats, indulge your tastebuds at the upscale Skybar 25 before catching a French film at the Alliance Française Accra.
Tallinn, Estonia
This former Soviet state brings just the right mix of traditional and progressive, making it a travel destination who’s time has come. Tallinn’s Old Town attracts history buffs to this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Estonia’s commitment to e-commerce draws digital nomads with its country-wide WiFi network and easy online business creation. The country also became the first Soviet state to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption in 2023, taking solid strides towards equality for all.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Americans love Vietnam for its lower cost of living, making it a popular retirement destination. If you’re travel plans are less permanent, Da Nang offers a laid-back lifestyle and modern conveniences. The coastal city is known for its beaches, welcoming locals and exquisite Vietnamese cuisine. Look into taking a street food motorbike tour or sightseeing trip to the Marble Mountains.
Boquete, Panama
Looking to get away from America but maintain those American experiences? Consider Boquete, a mountain town in Panama’s Chiriquí province. Expats make up about a quarter of its 20,000 residents, so speaking English will be no problem. Panama also uses the US dollar for currency, saving you money on conversion fees. If you’re really enjoying your time here and have $1,000 in monthly passive income, apply for their pensionado visa; it gets you discounts on everything from entertainment to groceries. You only have to be 18 to apply for it, too!
Barcelona, Spain
From art to architecture and beaches to Barça, there’s no end to Barcelona’s charms. Travelers rave about the street art in the Gothic district and Catalan dishes like botifarra amb mongetes (pork sausage served with white beans) that are on offer. Expatsi is hosting a scouting trip here in 2024.
Expatsi returns to Barcelona, Murcia, and other Spanish cities on its next scouting trip in September 2024. You can find the details here.
Vacation vs Scouting Trip: What’s the Difference?
Expatsi is hosting a scouting trip to Portugal and Spain for our group members in March. “So you’re taking them on vacation?” people ask us. “Not exactly,” we tell them. Vacations focus on having fun and relaxation, while scouting trips help people find a new home when looking to move abroad.
It’s a tricky divide between the two paths. Here’s how a scouting trip looks different than a vacation:
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➤ 12 Underrated Cities You Should Consider Moving To
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