Emigrating for a new life can be tempting but one travel expert said there are some that don’t always offer a forever home
Dreaming of starting a new life in a country far away is something many of us will have thought about at some point in our lives. For 513,000 Brits last year, it became a reality.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show more than half a million people moved away in 2024.
For many people who take the leap it’s the best thing they have ever done. But one travel vlogger has named the seven countries people will move to only to want to come back home within a year.
Posting on TikTok, The Atlas Aura, who shares exclusive destinations and family adventures and travel tips, also detailed the reasons behind people wanting to leave and return to their home in a matter of months.
She said: “Moving abroad is incredible, but it’s not always easy.”
First up is Canada. The Atlas Aura said that the country is a draw because it is safe with a friendly vibe and has a lot of nature to enjoy.
But the reality is that emigrants are faced with brutal winters and pricey housing, and they can find it hard to make deep connections with people.
Second on the list is Sweden. The Atlas Aura said that it is a clean, safe and progressive country and seemingly a great choice for a dream life.
But, like Canada, people want to leave because of the long, dark winters, the reserved culture and it can be hard to make friends. She added: “I lived here – it’s stunning, but the darkness really hits.”
Australia is a dream move for many Brits dreaming of a life in the sunshine. And while it is a popular choice thanks to the sun, beaches and lifestyle there’s reasons many won’t make it past the first year.
Very high living costs combined with stress over obtaining a visa and the distance from family are sometimes too much, she said.
The Atlas Aura says Germany is a popular place to move to because of its stability, travel and strong economy.
But she says some will want to leave because of ‘endless’ bureaucracy. She also said that many will struggle with the German’s ‘directness’ which she said can feel cold.
She added: “From experience: great life, but the paperwork tests you!”
New Zealand is another emigration favourite with Brits drawn by its epic scenery and laid back lifestyle. But the isolation, limited jobs market and expensive flights home can mean many don’t stick it out there.
Spain has long been a favourite place for Brits to move to with its climate, food and lifestyle offering a dream life for many.
The Atlas Aura said that slow bureaucracy and high unemployment often puts an end to that dream. She also noted that it can be hard to live outside the big cities unless you can speak the language.
Finally she said France is another place where people don’t always get what they expect. While people are keen to live there becayse of the culture, the food and the stunning landscapes, she said that many are forced home by slow administration and closed social circles.
She added: “I lived here – loved it, but it takes effort to fit in.”
