Unexpected Perks of Leaving the USA

Our return to the United States was a stark reminder of what our life used to be like before we moved to Ecuador.

We were stressed about so many things: Cost of living, work life balance, inflation, gas prices, politics, and healthcare.

According to the World Happiness Report, the United States ranks at number 16, but for us, that’s a hard statistic to swallow.

Spending a month back in the U.S. was a good reminder of what our life used to be like before we moved abroad. It was stressful, frantic, busy, unhealthy.

We spent a huge chunk of our time driving. We ate out way too much and we both gained weight because we didn’t have time to cook or exercise.

After 1 month, we left the U.S. feeling a year older!

After returning home to Ecuador, it didn’t take long to get back to feeling happy and healthy so in this article, we’ll share 10 reasons why we’re happier living abroad and why we think you will be too.

New Adventures

Living abroad brings a constant sense of adventure. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, language, and activities.

In the U.S., we often found ourselves stuck in the same routine, eagerly awaiting the weekends for a brief escape.

In Ecuador every day is an opportunity to learn and explore, and every weekend feels like an adventure as we discover the incredible beauty of this country.

Global Friendships That Go Beyond Work

Back in the U.S., our conversations often revolved around work and our professions. Our friendships tended to be with people from similar backgrounds.

However, in Ecuador, we’ve forged meaningful relationships that go far beyond work. We talk about our lives, share experiences, and engage in various activities with friends from all over the world.

It’s a chance to learn about different cultures and worldviews, broadening our horizons.

A More Affordable Lifestyle

The cost of living in the U.S. was a constant source of stress for us. Rent for a tiny one-bedroom apartment alone consumed a significant portion of our income.

Healthcare and everyday expenses, such as food and transportation, were prohibitively expensive. In Ecuador, we’ve discovered a more affordable way of life.

Our rent here is a fraction of what we paid in the U.S., and we no longer need a car. Healthcare costs are significantly lower, making it accessible to everyone.

Better Food

Ecuador has spoiled us with its higher quality, better-tasting, and more affordable food. Healthy eating is not only achievable but enjoyable here.

Restaurants take pride in presenting their dishes, turning every meal into a delightful experience.

A Healthier Lifestyle

Our time in the U.S. often had us stuck in traffic or sitting at our desks for extended periods. Unhealthy convenience foods became our go-to because we were too exhausted to cook.

Ecuador’s climate and abundant green spaces have encouraged us to walk more, and we’ve lost weight as a result.

We can enjoy year-round walks without extreme weather conditions, whether in lush green parks or along beautiful beaches.

Accessible Healthcare

In the U.S., we often had to wait for months to get a doctor’s appointment, and emergency care was prohibitively expensive. This led to postponing necessary medical visits.

In Ecuador, we can see a doctor promptly and communicate directly with them. Even without insurance, healthcare here is affordable, making it easier for us to prioritize our well-being.

A Commute-Free Life

In the U.S., Amelia spent hours stuck in traffic during her daily commute. Now, with the flexibility of working online, we spend more time together, reducing stress and improving our overall quality of life.

A Life with Less Stress

Ecuador offers a calmer pace of life. We no longer worry about making ends meet, allowing us to save for our retirement and enjoy each day without the rush and chaos of our previous routine.

Para-Political Bliss

One of the great advantages of living abroad is being removed from the political turmoil of the U.S.

Ecuador has its own unique challenges, but we’ve found peace in being detached from the political baggage we left behind.

An Expanded Worldview

Living abroad has broadened our horizons and shattered stereotypes and myths.

The world no longer seems as intimidating, and we’re excited to explore more places long-term, armed with a newfound understanding and appreciation for different cultures.

Final Thoughts…

Our quality of life has significantly improved since we left the U.S.

Ecuador has become our happy place, but the benefits of living abroad are not limited to a specific location. Regardless of where you choose to live, the adventures, global friendships, affordability, better food, and improved healthcare can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.

So, if you’re seeking happiness, don’t hesitate to explore the world beyond your comfort zone—you might just find your own version of paradise.

Watch Our Video About the Perks of Living Abroad

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Amelia Basista

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I grew up in the Chicagoland area and spent most of my career working as a sales rep in the commercial lighting industry. I still work online for a company in Denver doing sales CRM administration. YouTube is my part-time gig, but I'm so happy we can share our Unconventional Life and hopefully inspire you live yours!