Quality of life keeps 'AHA' generation abroad

Escaping pressure kettle lifestyles has led to more Brits moving further afield, and has resulted in a whole generation who are more 'At Home Abroad' (AHA), according to a global study of British expatriate opinions and attitudes.

The NatWest International Personal Banking (NatWest IPB) Quality of Life Report, undertaken in conjunction with think tank, Centre for Future Studies, surveyed British expatriates from across the world. It revealed that the desire for a better way of life was a strong reason to leave the UK, with over a third (37%) of expats surveyed putting quality of life as their top factor for living abroad, closely followed by standard of living (26%) and cost of living (20%). Consequently, 92% of expats surveyed feel they have a better quality of life abroad, and 63% don't plan to return to UK shores, feeling more At Home Abroad (AHA).

The findings show: 87% confirming their life abroad is better than expected, 91% are happier than they were in the UK, 90% are financially better off, 68% consider themselves healthier and 81% have a greater sense of wellbeing

The study also rated life abroad. Based on expat assessments of numerous lifestyle indicators, including housing, public services, weather and the natural environment, it came up with the NatWest IPB Quality of Life Index,

Canada scored first place with a mean score of 63.95 (a perfect score would be 80, the worst score would be 16) with high rankings for housing, the natural environment and the availability of consumer goods.

New Zealand was a close second, with high rankings for schools and healthcare provision. After New Zealand came Portugal, Italy, France, Sweden, Spain and Norway.

Towards the other end of the Quality of Life Index, Singapore and UAE both fell short in regard to public transport and public services in particular.

07 February 2008 © Moneyextra.com

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