I want out

[windy252]

I am so, so glad at this time that I kept a contingency account (which probably still won't be enough, even after the Dems won control of Congress and the Senate). I need to know if there's any sane country I can get into quickly, as in a matter of months without a bachelor's degree, though I do intend to finish up an Associate's this semester. I am starting to get genuinely scared now and would like to be living in a more sane country. It's very important to me that this post be answered. Thanks in advance. Edited for typos.

[MattSh]

1. Let me give this a shot.....

This is not an easy one to reply to, since you give so few specifics about anything. And leaving just to leave may mean you end up in a place that may make you totally miserable, which may or not be better than being merely scared. Although I've been off in East Europe for a year and a half now doesn't mean anything I can say may be of much use. But maybe the information at this link will be of some assistance.

http://www.internationalliving.com/free_reports/02-01-06-how_to_move_overseas.html

A short synopsis from the link.....

How to Prepare For a Move Overseas—A Checklist


Move for the right reasons

When you do decide to move, make sure you are doing it for the right reasons; your own reasons. It’s not a black and white issue, but understanding your own motivation for wanting to move overseas can help you to get prepared, and get the most out of the experience.

If you have a significant other who is joining you on this venture, both of you should work through this analysis. You should both keep one another engaged in the process and the decisions should be joint decisions. Things can become difficult if one person is being pulled unenthusiastically along.


Things to remember

-There is no perfect paradise. For example, tropical venues will have some strange creatures crawling, slithering, biting, or climbing…much like you have in Florida. There will be upsides and downsides, so check into what they are ahead of time and be prepared.

-No government is wholly honest. Every country on earth has politicians, policemen, and bureaucrats on the take, and it’s possible that the percentage of those officials will be significantly higher than you’re used to. If you’re living in Central America, for example, you may find yourself offering some official $20 to expedite your building permit, if that’s the only way you’ll get it in less than six months.

-No society is completely crime-free. Every place on earth has problems with juveniles, drugs, and theft. But most places—certainly the ones where we recommend our readers settle—are less violent than the U.S. That said, many poor countries have more petty crime than you may be used to, especially if you live in rural America.

-No climate is absolutely perfect. Weather anomalies are a global phenomenon. Not only that, but even in "normal" years, the tropics have a hot rainy season…and Europe has its share of cold winters. Countries that you’re considering may have hurricanes, earthquakes, or active volcanoes.

Each locale offers its share of pluses and minuses. It’s up to you to weigh them against your own list of priorities. Living high in the mountains may provide glorious views of snowcapped peaks…but you won’t be within 10 minutes of an ocean. Ecuador may offer you the most affordable cost of living, great weather, and the best deals on city properties…but you’ll be several hours by plane from home. On the other hand, if you settle in Mérida, Mexico, you’ll also benefit from excellent prices on colonial homes, and you can be back in Miami in under two hours…but brace yourself for a sweltering summer.

Again, it comes down to what’s important to you as an individual.

Step One: Make a list of your personal priorities and preferences

Step Two: Make a list of the world’s top overseas havens

Step Three: Consider the pluses and minuses of each country

Step Four: Narrow your list of countries to no more than three or four

Step Five: Cut the list to one or two countries

Step Six: Meet with the tax man

Step Seven: Decide how you’re going to use your new home

Step Eight: Meet with an in-country residency expert

Step Nine: Narrow your list to one, and decide what’s going with you

Step Ten: Set up a portable global office

Step Eleven: Look into international health insurance policies

Step Twelve: Rent a home in your chosen haven

Not all of this stuff applies to all, or even most individuals. But it does give you a good idea of the types of things you really need to be paying attention too.

The only thing that may greatly simplify the procedure is to have an in-country support network. In my case that would be to marry someone who lives there. That may or may not be an option for you.

Hope some of this helps.....

[mnhtnbb]

2. Another good resource (with int'l job info)

www.escapeartist.com

[NewHampshireDem]

3. A good book to start with: Getting Out by Mark Ehrman

Lnk to Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/yr2hvq