86: Should you leave the USA — Or just visit abroad instead?
Should You Leave the USA — Or Just Visit Abroad Instead?
Should you leave the USA—or just visit abroad instead? More Americans are asking this question as interest in international living continues to grow. In this post, we’ll break down the difference between traveling and living abroad, explore when a move makes sense, and help you figure out which choice fits your goals.
This is a big question with no one-size-fits-all answer. In this post, we’ll explore when it makes sense to move, when it’s better to visit, and how to know which path fits your situation.
Why So Many Americans Are Considering Life Abroad
There’s been a growing interest in living abroad, and for good reason. Common motivators include:
- Lower cost of living
- Frustration with U.S. politics or healthcare
- A desire for better work-life balance
- Curiosity and a sense of adventure
But here’s where many people go wrong: they assume moving abroad is automatically better. Many people say they want to move abroad, but I don’t think it’s always for everyone. It depends on your goals, timing, and readiness to adapt.
The Real Difference Between Traveling and Living Abroad
Traveling and living abroad are not the same.
Traveling is an escape. It often includes comfort, novelty, and a limited time commitment.
Living abroad is reality. It includes paperwork, culture shock, and emotional adjustment.
A few examples:
- Visiting Portugal might mean sightseeing and good food.
Living in Portugal includes laundry days, securing long-term housing, and understanding the residency process. - Eating croissants in Paris feels easy on vacation.
Renewing a French visa or navigating local systems is a different story.
What feels exciting while traveling can feel frustrating in daily life. Because while living abroad can totally feel like like living the dream (and it totally can feel that way), you still have normal life things to do. It’s not all vacation!
When Moving Abroad Is Actually Worth It
In some cases, a permanent move makes sense. You might be ready to live abroad if:
- You want long-term change—not just a break
- You’ve researched visa options and have a clear plan
- You’re open to discomfort and slower timelines
- You’re not escaping something—you’re intentionally building something
This kind of move requires preparation, adaptability, and follow-through. The shift is real—but so is the reward, if done with intention.
When It’s Better to Visit Than to Move
Sometimes, visiting is the better option. Especially if:
- You’re unsure about long-term goals
- You’re in a season of burnout or instability
- You haven’t looked into finances, visas, or language barriers
- You’re curious, but not ready to commit fully
Short-term travel can give you space to reflect. It can scratch the itch without the pressure. A sabbatical in Spain might be more useful than a rushed move.
You could always start with a visit to test the waters before committing to a major shift. I, on the other hand, visited London for 4 days and knew I wanted to move there. So, if you know you know. But if you’re still trying to decide, then do a trip abroad to see how it feels to picture yourself living there!
Moving Abroad Isn’t Always the Fix
Moving abroad won’t solve every problem. If you’re dealing with loneliness, burnout, or dissatisfaction with your career, those things might follow you.
Sometimes, geography isn’t the issue—clarity is.
Staying and making intentional changes in your current life can be the braver move. The key is knowing what you’re really looking for. But some self reflection is going to be key here, because sometimes a fresh start is really what we need.
Final Thoughts
There’s value in both visiting and moving abroad. But they serve different purposes.
If you’re unsure, start by visiting. Give yourself space to explore and reflect. And if you’re serious about moving, go in with clear expectations and a solid plan. You got this!
If safety is one of your top concerns and you’re wondering where in Europe might be a good fit, take my free quiz at jordangiberson.com/quiz. It’s designed to help you find a city that fits your values—safety included.
Getting Serious About Life Abroad? These Guides Will Help You Prepare
