The 10 Best Places For Black Expats To Live Abroad
Ever think about quitting your job, packing your life up and leaving everything behind? A lot of people think about it and a lot of people actually do it. When leaving your country of origin, it can be difficult deciding on where you want to move to, especially if you’re not sure how that country generally reacts to black people.
While there are many different options for expatriates, we have come up with the top 10 places. Whether leaving home is just a passing thought or a serious consideration, check out our list for some inspiration.
Contents
1. Dubai – One Of The Best Places For Expats To Live
In the last few years, it seems like Dubai has become a hot spot for travelers and expatriates everywhere. One of the safest and most liberal cities in the Middle East, Dubai is composed primarily of foreigners, making it a true melting pot of cultures and a haven for diversity. Many expats come to Dubai for better jobs and career advancement, so if you are looking to do the same this might be a good move for you. Do some research, pack your bags and move to this (mostly) tax-free city!
2. Tokyo
Dreaming of cherry blossom trees and Japanese culture? If you’re more into big cities, Tokyo is the place for you. Even with millions of people living in Tokyo, it is still rare to see people of color there. As a result, it is common for Japanese residents to approach Black expatriates for pictures, out of curiosity; you’ll feel like a celebrity in this huge city. Sure, the metro stations and trains are always crowded, but who can resist waking up to views of Mount Fiji like the one pictured above?
3. Thailand Is Another Option For Expatriates
If you’re interested in moving to Asia but Tokyo is just too expensive for you, Thailand is a wonderful second option. Apart from how cheap it is, the employment opportunities, and the nightlife, Thailand is great for young and old expatriates alike. Not to mention, some of the most beautiful landscapes and architecture is in Thailand, including the Phi Phi Islands and Phuket. Thailand is the perfect way to get a taste of paradise and city life all in one.
4. Expatriates, How About Switzerland
The fact that Switzerland is one of the safest and happiest countries in the entire world is reason enough to consider it an option for any expat. Switzerland is one of the most underrated destinations for expats but it offers optimum living standards. For example, Switzerland has incredible healthcare and educational systems that are some of the best in the world. From the mountains to the smooth chocolate that it’s known for, you should really consider going on a permanent “vacation” and enjoying all that Switzerland has to offer.
5. London – Perfect For Black Female Expats
With higher numbers of African descendants than any of the previously mentioned destinations, London is a great place for Black expats in particular.
Although London can be a bit expensive for some, the size of the city makes up for it. There’s always something new to explore.
Even if you get bored with your surroundings, London is in a great spot to venture off and explore neighboring countries like France or Belgium. From the world-class music and art to the eccentric culture, London is a great place to start a new life.
6. Hong Kong
Want a taste of New York City on the other side of the world? Hong Kong is definitely an option. There are thousands of expats from America and other countries living in Hong Kong. Although learning Cantonese would be ideal for the purposes of cultural immersion, English is an official and acceptable language in Hong Kong (but please, learn some Cantonese, too). The best thing about Hong Kong is the wide range of jobs openings available. So, whether you are moving there to teach English or to work a job in another field, there are opportunities for just about everyone.
7. Brazil, African American Expats Will Love The Heat!
Brazil has one of the most significant multiracial populations in the world, with a good number of its people being of African descent. In Bahia, Brazil, for example, the African culture is alive and well through its music, customs, and traditions. Brazilians are different from people in other nations because they really embrace relationships and community. Between the amazing food, all of the amazing places to explore in Brazil, and the people, we can’t think of a reason for expats not to consider Brazil. Brush up on your Portuguese and head to the biggest country in South America.
8. Malaysia Is Another Top Livable Place For Female Expats
A diverse society on the side of the world opposite Brazil, Malaysia is next on our list of best places for expats. With housing and food costs significantly cheaper than many other places in the world, Malaysia could be the perfect spot to settle.
Malaysia is also perfect for those wanting to live in a country that allows easy travel to other countries. To the north, you could travel to Thailand, Cambodia and other countries, to the south, you could travel to Indonesia.
A Southeast Asian melting pot, Malaysia is definitely a country that you should check out.
9. Paris
That’s right, the city of love made our list. Aside from being almost everyone’s dream destination, Paris is also a haven for expats from all around. We know the Parisian food is reason enough to move, but the remnants of Black history will make you truly feel at home. As with anywhere, Paris is no walk in the park but it is common to see other expats of color there. Consider Paris for the quality of life, the culture, and the overall atmosphere. It is important to learn at least basic French though, or else it will be a much more difficult transition than it has to be.
10. Lastly, New Zealand In A Great Option
Expats in New Zealand rave about how friendly everyone is and there’s a reason for that. New Zealand has some of the nicest people in the world and operates on a natural sense of community; people are genuinely interested in helping each other. Additionally, New Zealand offers much cheaper housing and more affordable healthcare than, say, America. Although the flight to New Zealand may be expensive, once you’re there you won’t regret it.
The 10 Best Places For Black Female Expats To Live
If on the other hand you’re looking to live in America, here are some of the best cities for African American families. No particular place in the world is without its faults, but these are some of the best places we’ve found for expats to relocate to. Have you left your native country and moved to any of the places we’ve mentioned? Please share your experiences and comments with us below.
My husband and I lived in Geneva, Switzerland for 3 years and I must say it was the best 3 years of our lives! The overall quality of life, the proximity to other countries, the public transportation…. all contributed to the memorable experience of living there. We would move back in a heartbeat were we able to afford it. It’s quite expensive, but well worth every franc.