5 Great Destinations for Adventurous Expatriates

Trying to decide where to live abroad is a very difficult task. You have to consider a hundred different things, such as taxes, safety, housing, schooling, culture, weather and, of course, international health insurance. More adventurous people want to go a step further and consider what are the top five expat destinations that will challenge and excite them.

As a future or current expat or global nomad, you know that there is already a thrill in uprooting your life and relocating to a completely different expat destination that will challenge you and your family’s ability to successfully transition abroad – such as adapting to a new culture, climate, and lifestyle. Here are seven amazing and adventurous destinations for your next expat assignment or life abroad.

Colombia

I have been to Colombia three times over the past few decades and have loved it there. It is an entirely different country from the 1990s and is very inviting for foreigners who want a great place to move abroad that is exciting and adventurous. It is not a boring expat destination – Colombia has diverse landscapes, rich culture, and burgeoning expat communities, making it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking new experiences and opportunities.

Amazing Landscapes and Aventures: Colombia has a lot of diversity for outdoor lovers. You get the Amazon rainforest in the south, the Caribbean coast in the north for beach lovers and mountains in the center. In addition to the coffee triangle and lush hills, you can get out in the jungle and experience many adventures such as mountain biking, paragliding, zip lining and bird watching. Beachgoers will love sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving.

Affordable Living: If you compare Colombia to living in the USA or Canada, your expat dollar will definitely go a long way. Whether it’s dining out, getting housing, or engaging in adventure trips, foreigners in Colombia will see their money go a long way. We find that cities like Medellín and Cartagena offer a range of options to suit different budgets, from modern apartments to charming colonial houses.

Safety & Opportunities for Digital Nomads: The nation of Colombia has made significant strides in improving safety and stability. Sure, it is not as safe as living in Denmark or Japan, but the government is making a big effort to reduce crime, and adventurous expats can take steps to lower their risk. We should also note that Colombia has become a favourite for digital nomads as the internet infrastructure is excellent, and it is in a time zone that is very close to the Pacific and Eastern Standard time zones.

Dynamic City Life: My favorite city destinations in Colombia are Meddeline and Bogota. For adventurous expats, you will find lots to do in most Colombian cities, along with great food and nightlife. The people are very inviting, and many parts of the country have vibrant expat social lives and connections.

Colombia offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and affordability. Its diverse landscapes, friendly communities, and improved safety make it an attractive destination for adventurous expatriates seeking new opportunities and experiences.

Vietnam

While I have not been to Vietnam yet, it is definitely one of my top three must-see destinations. Vietnam is a great choice for expats who want to live somewhere with great food, beaches, culture, and numerous adventure opportunities.

Vietnam is a key destination for expats as well because it offers a blend of charm and affordability for expats and global citizens who want one of the best Asian countries to move to.

Vibrant Cities: If you are someone who loves a bustling urban life, you will find Vietnam’s cities are energetic hubs of culture and innovation. Cities can deliver excellent services, such as housing, childcare, schooling, and high-speed internet, which can make your life easier and more productive. The Capital, Hanoi, gives expats a mix of French colonial architecture and centuries-old temples. Expats love it also because it blends tradition with modernity. The other major city for global nomads in Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). It is a fast-moving city with a cosmopolitan vibe.

Cost of Living: Vietnam’s cities give expats an affordable cost of living, with access to co-working spaces, cafes, and diverse dining options, making them ideal for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.

Culture and History: Vietnam bounced back from the wars in the 20th century and has become a showcase of Asian culture while still promoting its rich history and heritage. You can enjoy numerous festivals, such as the Tet (Lunar New Year), or check out the numerous temples, museums and architecture.

Adventures for Expats: If you are someone who likes thrills, then Vietnam offers a plentitude of adventures. Expats and tourists alike can partake in motorbiking along the famous Ha Giang Loop to explore the world’s largest caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Many expats like to enjoy motorbiking in Vietnam, such as the Ha Giang Loop, but you should make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage given that road accidents are pretty common – also, wear a helmet! If you are more into trekking, the misty mountains of Sapa in northern Vietnam are a perfect choice.

Namibia

Namibia has become a key destination of expats who want adventure and an untamed lifestyle. Many are drawn there by the culture and endless opportunities for exploring.

Landscapes: Large parts of Namibia’s landscapes are like nowhere else in the globe. The African country just above South Africa has immense beauty and a contrast between the southern deserts, dramatic coastline and jungles up North. The Namib Desert boasts iconic red dunes at Sossusvlei, which are a dune buggy enthusiast’s dream destination. Stargazers will also love Namibia as there is little to no light pollution. The Skeleton Coast gives expats access to shipwrecks and amazing beaches. Or try your luck at hiking through the breathtaking Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world.

Expats and tourists should also explore the Northern Zambezi Region, which is known for its rivers and wetlands. This region is a great choice if you like safaris and the ability to see the big five animals.

Safety: Namibia is considered a very safe country when compared to much of the African continent, especially when outside the capital city, Windhoek. The capital is the center of economic, political and social life for locals and expats alike. You should take normal precautions when living in the capital or when traveling throughout the country. Also, make sure your vaccinations are up to date.

Canada

While many would consider Canada to be a more conservative and mild-mannered place to live as an expat, and it is, there are also numerous adventure opportunities for tourists and long-term expatriates. Canada has boosted their immigration levels quite a bit since the end of the Covid pandemic. Many foreigners from the USA and the EU are also moving to Canada to have a peaceful and safe lifestyle.

Canada is, of course, just above the United States and is the second-largest country in the world, but it also has a small population. Foreigners in Canada enjoy the wide variety of landscapes, from towering mountain ranges to vast forests and pristine lakes. Canada is definitely a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Outdoor Opportunities in Canada: There are too many adventure opportunities to list, but we can start with the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia and Alberta. You can enjoy skiing, trail riding, trekking, climbing and white water rafting. Ontario also offers great camping and canoeing in the Algonquin Provincial Park. Quebec has lots of skiing to offer and some great ice sports as well. Not to be left out, the Maritimes have lots of activities as well. If you are out for adventure, check out the far north in places like the Yukon.

Switzerland

While Switzerland is an expensive place for ex-pats to reside, its favourable tax structures are a key draw for adventurous expatriates. The country is a paradise for skiers who seek out resorts such as Zermatt or St Moritz. You can also hike the Matterhorn glacier trail and numerous other trekking spots that cater to locals and visitors alike. Some like to paraglide or even partake in numerous claiming opportunities that are available.

Safe and Stable: You can’t get much more safe and stable than the country of Switzerland. The country’s Adventure companies are well-regulated and a great choice for ex-pats. The nation also offers excellent hospitals and rescue services if you get lost or injured.

Global Access: While living in Switzerland, you will be given the opportunity to access most of Europe by train, car or flight. It is a great gateway country with weekend trips to France, Germany, Austria and Italy.

Quality of Life: When you are not partaking in adventure sports, you can enjoy a vibrant culture, food and relaxed environment that many expats seek. Because there are so many foreigners there, it is an easy place for most expatriates to adapt and fine friends.

Some Final Thoughts for Adventurous Expats

We would be remiss if we did not remind adventurous expats and foreigners that when living abroad, they should make sure that they have comprehensive global healthcare that will cover them locally, regionally and when back home. Adventure leaning expats should also check if the health plan that they secure abroad will cover the adventure activities that they are partaking in or buy additional separate coverage to cover their sporting activities.

Written by David Tompkins