Hidden Gems for British Expats: Unconventional Countries That Might Just Be Perfect for You

When British people think of emigrating, certain destinations instantly spring to mind: sunny Spain, bustling Australia, laid-back New Zealand, or the USA for those chasing the American Dream.

We looked at similar destinations in last week’s blog.

However, the more typical destinations often come with downsides such as rising costs, tougher visa processes, and oversaturated expat communities where integration into local culture can be a challenge.

But what if you could live somewhere cheaper, safer, culturally rich, and still enjoy a great standard of living, in a country most Brits wouldn’t even think about when considering a move abroad?

There are dozens of nations quietly ticking every box for an excellent expat life, but flying under the radar simply because they’re not in the usual “Brit abroad” conversation.

Here are eight unconventional countries that, based on our criteria (quality of life, cost of living, healthcare, safety, climate, visa accessibility, and integration potential), deserve a serious look.

You may also like to read: The 5 Best Countries for Brits to Move to. If you missed last week’s blog post, then here it is. In it, we look at the 5 best countries for Brits to move to based on easy immigration routes, integration, public services, safety, and the cost of living.

1. Uruguay – A South American Gem

Why Brits overlook it:

When we think of South America, Brazil, Argentina, and Peru dominate the conversation. Uruguay barely gets a mention, yet it’s one of the safest, most stable, and most progressive countries in the region.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Uruguay ranks consistently high for political stability, safety, and governance. Montevideo is calm, walkable, and has beautiful beaches right on its doorstep.
• Cost of living: Affordable compared to Western Europe, particularly for property and food, though not as cheap as some other South American countries.
• Healthcare: A high standard of both public and private care, with membership-based healthcare plans that are inexpensive.
• Climate: Mild and temperate, without the extremes found in other parts of South America.
• Visas: The country has a relatively open residency policy, especially for retirees and remote workers.
• Integration potential: Uruguayans are friendly, and English is increasingly common among younger generations. The country is culturally European-influenced, making it easier for Brits to adapt.
• Bonus: Uruguay legalised same-sex marriage early, is environmentally conscious, and has a well-regarded education system, making it ideal for families.

Discover more about living in Uruguay at www.gov.uk

2. Slovenia – Stunningly Beautiful

Why Brits overlook it:

Many lump Slovenia in with “Eastern Europe” without knowing much about it, and instead head to more famous neighbours like Italy or Croatia.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Stunning alpine scenery, medieval towns, and it is easy access to Italy, Austria, and the Balkans. It has low crime and a strong sense of community.
• Cost of living: Around 25–30% lower than the UK for most expenses, with affordable rural properties.
• Healthcare: Excellent healthcare system, with EU standards still maintained post-Brexit for Brits who gain residency.
• Climate: From snowy mountains in winter to warm summers near the Adriatic coast.
• Visas: Slovenia offers multiple residency options, including for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and retirees.
• Integration potential: There is high English proficiency among younger Slovenians, and a welcoming attitude toward foreigners.
• Bonus: You can drive from ski slopes to the beach in under two hours, a dream for those who love seasonal variety.

You may also like to read: International Home Moves. Are international home moves the ultimate home moving challenge? Avoid the common international home moving mistakes with the tips in this guide.

Discover more about visas, healthcare, working, studying, and more in Slovenia at www.gov.uk

3. Malaysia – Asia’s Multicultural Gateway

Why Brits overlook it:

Thailand and Bali get all the Southeast Asia attention. Malaysia often flies under the radar despite being one of the most livable countries in the region for Western expats.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Kuala Lumpur offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with excellent infrastructure, while Penang and Johor Bahru offer slower-paced alternatives with strong expat communities.
• Cost of living: Significantly lower than the UK, with eating out, healthcare, and rent all highly affordable.
• Healthcare: Top-quality private hospitals with English-speaking doctors at a fraction of healthcare costs elsewhere.
• Climate: Tropical: hot and humid year-round, but with distinct wet and dry seasons.
• Visas: The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme offers long-term residency for those who meet financial requirements.
• Integration potential: English is widely spoken, and the country’s mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures makes for a diverse and welcoming environment.
• Bonus: Easy travel for exploring Asia with cheap flights to Thailand, Singapore, and beyond.

Discover more about living in Malaysia, visas, healthcare, working, and studying in Malaysia at www.gov.uk  

4. Georgia – Europe’s Digital Nomad Destination

Why Brits overlook it:

It’s not a country that pops up often unless you’re a wine enthusiast or a Silk Road history buff. But that’s changing.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Tbilisi blends ancient architecture with a growing modern café culture. The countryside is breathtaking, with mountains, vineyards, and Black Sea beaches.
• Cost of living: Exceptionally low, and rent and food prices are a fraction of UK levels.
• Healthcare: Decent private healthcare, especially in cities, at very affordable rates.
• Climate: Four distinct seasons, with warm summers and snowy winters.
• Visas: Brits can stay visa-free for up to a year, with straightforward paths to residency.
• Integration potential: Georgians are famously hospitable, and the country’s growing digital nomad scene means an easy social network for newcomers.
• Bonus: Georgia produces some of the world’s oldest wine varieties, perfect for vineyard weekends.

You may also like to read: Is Living Abroad Any Better than the UK? In this guide, we find out whether the UK is a unique mess or if life is just the same in Europe.

Discover all you need to know about living in Georgia at www.gov.uk 

5. Namibia – Wide-Open African Freedom

Why Brits overlook it:

Africa often gets skipped over entirely by British emigrants unless they have family ties or job placements. Namibia’s remote location and small population mean it’s rarely considered.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Peaceful, politically stable, with incredible natural beauty, from the Namib Desert dunes to wildlife-rich national parks.
• Cost of living: Reasonable for housing and food, though imported goods can be pricier.
• Healthcare: Good private healthcare in Windhoek and other main towns.
• Climate: Mostly sunny and dry, with cool nights, which is a dream for those who dislike humidity.
• Visas: Residency can be obtained through investment, business, or retirement routes.
• Integration potential: English is the official language, and there’s a relaxed, community-oriented culture.
• Bonus: Some of the lowest population densities in the world, perfect for space, privacy, and outdoor lovers.

Find out more about living in Namibia, chat in expat forums, and more at www.internations.org 

6. Ecuador – South America’s Affordable All-Rounder

Why Brits overlook it:

Overshadowed by Peru for history buffs and Costa Rica for nature lovers, Ecuador receives less attention despite being one of the most expat-friendly countries in Latin America.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: A choice of climates and lifestyles: Andean mountain towns, Pacific beaches, and Amazon rainforest communities.
• Cost of living: Extremely affordable, you can live well on a modest UK pension.
• Healthcare: High-quality private care at low cost.
• Climate: From year-round spring in Quito to tropical heat on the coast.
• Visas: The retirement visa is particularly appealing, with low income requirements.
• Integration potential: Warm, welcoming locals and established expat hubs in cities like Cuenca.
• Bonus: The US dollar is the official currency, making finances simpler for those familiar with it.

You may also like to read: Moving to a Hot Country. In this guide, we look at the benefits of moving to a hot country and offer tips to help you acclimatize.

Discover more about living and working, studying, healthcare, visas, and more in Ecuador at www.gov.uk

7. Portugal’s Azores Islands – Europe’s Hidden Paradise

Why Brits overlook it:

Portugal is popular, but the Azores, a remote Atlantic archipelago, are often dismissed as “too far” or “just for holidays.”

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Small-town charm, volcanic landscapes, whale watching, and minimal crime.
• Cost of living: Lower than mainland Portugal, especially for housing.
• Healthcare: Good public healthcare and easy access to private care.
• Climate: Mild year-round, with more rain than the Algarve, but lush green scenery as a result.
• Visas: Same as Portugal, including D7 and Golden Visa options.
• Integration potential: English is widely spoken, and the slower pace makes for a stress-free lifestyle.
• Bonus: There are direct flights to Lisbon, which is great for those wanting easy international connections.

Learn more about life in the Azores at www.portugalist.com

8. Taiwan – Asia’s Underrated Gem

Why Brits overlook it:

Many people confuse Taiwan with China or think it’s only for English teachers. In reality, it’s one of Asia’s most livable places.

Why it’s worth considering:

• Quality of life: Modern infrastructure, efficient public transport, and vibrant cities like Taipei, balanced with a serene countryside.
• Cost of living: Affordable rents, especially outside the capital, and inexpensive local food.
• Healthcare: One of the world’s best public healthcare systems, with low costs for residents.
• Climate: Subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters.
• Visas: Multiple work, entrepreneur, and Gold Card visa options for skilled professionals.
• Integration potential: Safe, friendly, and with a growing international community.
• Bonus: Incredible food scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to night market snacks.

You may also like to read: Countries That Will Pay You to Move There. In this guide, we look at which countries pay people to emigrate there and what the criteria are that you have to meet.

Learn more about visas, healthcare, and living in Taiwan at www.gov.uk

Useful Resources

• View the Better Life Index (based on 11 criteria) for any country at www.oecd.org
• Compare the cost of living in your current city with your new country at www.numeo.com
• Discover how climate change could affect your chosen country at www.impactlab.org
• View the Safety Index for your chosen country at www.numbeo.com 
• Find out how much it could cost you to move to your chosen country at www.removalreviews.com

Dare You Step Off The Beaten Track?

We often fall into the trap of assuming that the best emigration destinations are the most obvious ones, but in doing so, we risk missing countries that could offer a better lifestyle, lower living costs, and a richer cultural experience.

The destinations above prove that there’s a whole world of opportunity beyond Spain’s costas or Sydney’s beaches.

Whether you’re drawn to the alpine lakes of Slovenia, the cultural blend of Malaysia, or the quiet, open landscapes of Namibia, looking off the beaten path could lead to your dream life.

If you approach your emigration plans with an open mind, focusing on the core criteria of quality of life, cost, healthcare, safety, climate, visa accessibility, and integration potential, you might just end up somewhere unexpected, living a life far richer than you’d imagined.

Good luck with your new life, and be sure to visit our International home moving blog, which is packed with guides to make every aspect of your move easier, cheaper, and safer.