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How To Create A Soft Life Abroad on a Basic Budget in 2024

Do you see yourself living abroad, surrounded by new cultures and breathtaking landscapes? But what if your bank account whispers “basic salary” instead of “six figures”? The “soft girl” life, characterised by comfort, indulgence within reason, and a touch of luxury, can absolutely be yours.  Here’s how you can achieve that luxurious, soft life abroad, even on a basic salary.

soft life on a basic budget

Simply because you deserve

We’ve been conditioned to believe that life is a relentless uphill climb, a relentless pursuit of a distant reward called retirement. But why postpone joy until some uncertain future? Every day is a gift, a chance to create our own slice of paradise. Luxury isn’t about extravagance; it’s about intentionality. It’s about savouring the present moment, indulging in small pleasures, and recognising that you deserve happiness now, not just someday.

Let’s rewrite the narrative and embrace a life where our very existence coexists with indulgence, where every day is an opportunity to experience a little bit of heaven. After all, tomorrow is not promised or guaranteed.

The Beauty of Location Independence

First things first, ditch the notion that luxury requires a hefty salary. People often think that we’re rich to live this lifestyle or that we’re sitting on a bag of money. It’s not that at all.  Not yet anyway! I think we’re often attached to the idea that we have to earn six figures or more to live a beautiful life and while more money can always be helpful, it’s really not the most important thing. 

It’s why you hear about that six figure lawyer who quit her stress-filled job to teach in China. You can be happy with less because money isn’t everything. It’s all about location, location, location and living a life you live.  Many countries offer a significantly lower cost of living compared to our former lives in London, England.

Jobs like teaching English online or freelance Beta Reading allow you the freedom to work from anywhere with a decent internet connection. There are so many platforms around that connect you with opportunities globally. While salaries might vary, even $1000-$2,000 USD a month can translate to a very comfortable life in certain locations. Earn in US dollars, British pounds and Euros and yes, salaries that would barely even cover rent in the West could fund your entire lifestyle abroad meaning you could work less and spend more time doing things you love with the people you care about.  

Dream Destinations on a Budget

When we lived in Chiang Mai, Thailand, our expenses rarely exceeded £800/$1000 a month and that was for a family of 3.  In Mexico, we’re typically spending £1700/$2000 a month, now that we’re a family of 4 and live in a tourist town.  

Let’s delve into some dream destinations where your Western earnings can stretch really far:

  • Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia offer stunning beaches, delicious food, and vibrant cultures, all at a fraction of the cost of Western countries. Think delicious street food for a few pounds, affordable rent, and transportation that won’t break the bank.
  • Central and South America: Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant energy of countries like Mexico, Colombia, or Costa Rica. These destinations boast stunning scenery, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life that’s perfect for unwinding.
  • Eastern Europe: Europe doesn’t have to be expensive! Countries like Albania, Hungary, and Czech Republic offer beautiful architecture, rich history, and a burgeoning cafe culture, all while being kind to your wallet. Imagine sipping a latte in a charming Budapest cafe for a fraction of the London price!
  • Africa: Ghana, The Gambia, Egypt & Kenya are all popular countries for expats.  The African continent boasts stunning scenery plus amazing history and culture.  Those in search of African ancestry will never tire of the culture and community on offer.  Move away from the tourist towns to ensure your money stretches far.  

Budgeting for the Soft Life Abroad

Now, let’s get practical. Here’s how to live that soft life on a budget:

  • Embrace the local lifestyle: Skip expensive tourist traps and explore like a local. Take advantage of public transportation, cook at home with fresh ingredients from local markets, and opt for free or budget-friendly activities.
  • Sign up for free accommodation: Rent is usually one of the biggest expenses we have and websites like Workaway and TrustedHousesitter allow you to spend a few hours each day helping out others in exchange for free boarding. 
  • Track your spending: Knowing where your money goes is crucial. Use budget tracking apps to help categorise expenses and identify areas to cut back.
  • Prioritise experiences: Splurge on experiences that create lasting memories – a day trip to a nearby island, a cooking class, or a hike through stunning scenery. These memories will far outlast a fleeting designer purchase.

Boost Your Budget with Passive Income Streams

However, why stop there? While remote work provides a steady income flow, consider building passive income streams to truly elevate your budget. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Sell Digital Products: Design printables like planners, wall art, or greeting cards and sell them on platforms like Etsy. This allows you to tap into your creative side while generating passive income.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Partner with brands you love and promote their products on your blog or social media. You earn a commission for every sale generated through your unique affiliate link.
  • Create an E-book: Do you have a passion for baking or a knack for travel writing? Turn your knowledge into an e-book and sell it on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. The initial effort is upfront, but the sales can trickle in for years to come.
  • Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: Share your love for soft living, travel experiences, or budgeting tips. Building a loyal audience can lead to advertising revenue, sponsored content, or even selling your own merchandise. Remember, it takes time to grow an audience, so be patient!

So there you have it, moving abroad could be easier than you think when you remove the pressure of financially trying to keep up with the Jones’. Just decide on the kind of lifestyle you want to live and work towards creating a steady income. Your so much closer than you realise. 

Frequently Asked Questions For Soft Life Abroad On A Basic Budget

This all sounds amazing, but where do I start?

Start by researching your dream destinations! Look for countries with a low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming culture. Once you have a few options in mind, delve deeper into the specifics – visa requirements, job opportunities, and average living costs. Finally, start building your remote income stream – whether it’s securing an online teaching job or exploring passive income options. Remember, the most important thing is to take the first step!

Won’t learning a new language be a barrier?

While learning the local language can certainly enhance your experience abroad, it’s not always a necessity. Many destinations, particularly those popular with expats, have a good level of English spoken. Additionally, many resources are available online and in apps to help you learn basic phrases in the local language

What if I’m not a writer or particularly creative? Can I still build passive income?

Of course! There are many ways to generate passive income that don’t require traditional creative skills. Here are a few ideas:

  • Affiliate marketing: Partner with brands you love and promote their products on social media. You earn a commission for every sale generated through your unique link.
  • Rent out a spare room: Do you have an unused room in your apartment? Consider listing it on platforms like Airbnb. This can be a fantastic way to generate passive income while meeting interesting people.
  • Invest in dividend-paying stocks: This requires some research, but investing in stocks that pay out regular dividends can provide a steady stream of passive income.

Is it safe to live abroad on a budget?

Safety is a top priority when considering a move abroad. Extensive research is key! Look for information on crime rates, healthcare availability, and political stability in your chosen destination. Additionally, consider joining expat forums or groups on social media to connect with people already living there and get firsthand advice.

I don’t have any experience teaching English online. Can I still do this?

Absolutely! Many online platforms offer TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification courses that can be completed remotely. These courses equip you with the skills and knowledge to teach English effectively, even with no prior experience. Additionally, some platforms are happy to train beginners, focusing on conversational English or specific age groups.

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