REVEALED: The best places to soak up the sun as an expat
WITH the UK days getting shorter, colder and wetter, you would be forgiven for fantasising about starting a new life in the sun overseas. But what destinations actually have the most to offer sun worshipers?
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Europe
Spain might be one of the first countries to pop into your head when thinking about sunny destinations – and for good reason too, parts of this Mediterranean country can expect up to 300 days of sunshine a year.
With a large expat community as well, Spain is a great choice for Brits looking to move abroad.
The South of France also enjoys an abundance of sunshine each year, with cities along its southern coast generally averaging around 230 days of sunshine on an annual basis.
However, residing on the South Coast often comes at a premium price, with costs being especially high along the Riviera.
Another European option for expats is Italy, where sunny skies can be expected for roughly 330 days a year in certain regions – ideal weather for kicking back with a gelato.
A word of caution however, the summer months in Italy can be blisteringly hot!
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The Americas
If you are looking for a destination a bit further afield, then you may want to head across the Pond, with parts of both North and South America offering plenty of sunshine.
Many southern states in the US rank highly for hours of sunshine, with California being a popular (if expensive) choice for expats.
Those looking for the absolute maximum amount of sunshine will want to consider the state of Arizona, which gets around 322 days of sun a year.
Mexico is another increasingly popular destination for expats looking to soak up the sun, especially along the pacific coast where some areas enjoy 338 days of sunshine each year.
If you head further south, you’ll hit Brazil and the famous sun swept beaches of Rio, with the city being home to a growing number of expats.
While you will have to cope with the rainy season, you will also get to enjoy months of tropical sunshine every year.
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Australasia
Those seeking a more exotic locale may find relocating to Asia of interest, as the continent can provide a complete cultural change as well as a warmer climate.
Thailand has long been a popular destination for many young backpackers looking to enjoy their gap year, however the generous amount of sunshine and reasonable cost of living has led to an increase in the number of older expats settling down in this beautiful south Asian paradise.
Of course, Australia is also a great choice for those looking to soak up as must sunlight as possible, with many Australians taking advantage of 224 days of sunshine to enjoy a stereotypical BBQ.
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The rest of the world
Egypt, cradle of civilisation and home to many of the world’s most iconic monuments (like the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx) enjoys plenty of sunshine, with areas of the country averaging 322 days of sunshine a year.
Madagascar, located just off the coast of East Africa, is another exotic location where you can soak up the sun, with the capital Antananarivo enjoying around 291 days of sunshine each year.
As the island nation is less well travelled than some of the other countries on this list, it is also a great place for anyone looking to get away from it all.
If you’re looking to soak up the sun year round, you may want to check out one of the destination listed about – just don’t forget to brush up on your small talk, you will not be able to fall back to complaining about the weather if you decide to move!
