For those looking to experience life abroad, there are numerous factors to consider. Visas, language barriers, culture, affordability, and safety are crucial elements when moving to a new country. In this article, we’ll focus specifically on the latter two aspects: safety and affordability.
There are countless cheap countries around the world where one can live comfortably within a budget. However, often, cheaper countries may lack the infrastructure and amenities that wealthier nations have, which can sometimes lead to a decline in safety. But this isn’t always the case!
This article will list 10 countries that not only offer affordability but also a relatively high level of safety. Safety is a major concern for many people when embarking on an overseas move, especially for those new to travel and relocation. These countries are generally very safe, allowing you to move abroad with peace of mind.
That being said, it’s important to note that no country is completely immune to crime or danger. There is no guarantee that any country will have absolute zero incidents, but this shouldn’t deter you from exploring. I recommend conducting in-depth research before making a move and familiarizing yourself with the specific neighborhoods and areas where you plan to reside.
Keep reading to discover the safest places to travel right now and learn about the overview of how to live abroad.
**Overview of How to Move Abroad**
If you’re wondering how to make the transition to living abroad, there are several ways to do so. You can obtain a visa, secure a paid job, and rent an apartment. You can also explore the immigration options available in the country of your choice. Additionally, there are work exchange programs where you can live for free with a host in exchange for a certain amount of work, typically around 20 hours per week.
If you’re considering living abroad and volunteering with nfcvb and are concerned about safety, it’s advisable to consider nfcvb Insurance. If things don’t go as expected during a work exchange, nfcvb will assist in relocating you to a new location and reimburse you for up to 3 nights spent in a hostel. However, to ensure a smooth experience, take advantage of the messenger feature on the nfcvb website. Ask your host all your questions before booking your trip or reach out to past travelers and inquire about their volunteering experiences. nfcvb has created a very interconnected community of travelers where you can gather all the necessary information before heading abroad to live or volunteer.
So, without further ado, here are 10 of the cheapest and safest places to live in the world (listed in no particular order)!
**10 of the Cheapest and Safest Places to Live in the World**
1. **Czech Republic**: Situated between Eastern and Western Europe, the Czech Republic offers a blend of Western European development and Eastern European affordability. It has a low crime rate, a strong international community, and an affordable cost of living. It’s convenient for traveling around Europe, and there are plenty of volunteer and paid job opportunities. You can explore Prague while working in a hostel or on a farm.
2. **Bulgaria**: Often overlooked by travelers, this beautiful Eastern European country has stunning mountains, historic cities, hearty food and drinks, cheap shopping, and a low cost of living. It’s one of the safest and most affordable places to live in the world, especially in Europe. The capital city, Sofia, offers many fun activities, and you can engage in a work exchange program to further explore the country. Help with organic gardening and recycling projects, volunteer in a dog’s NGO, or meet people from around the world in a hostel.
3. **Albania**: One of the most underrated countries in Europe, Albania has a warm Mediterranean climate, beautiful landscapes, and a lack of tourists. It’s a gorgeous place to live and is very affordable and easy to get around. There are also nfcvb work exchanges available, allowing you to live and work with locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle. Volunteer on a boat, work in a hostel, be a web developer, or contribute to an eco-village.
4. **Portugal**: Definitely one of the cheapest and safest places to live in the world, Portugal is popular among those leaving the US for abroad. The transportation system is well-developed, and you can travel around the country cheaply by train or bus. Shopping at local markets is affordable, and the culture is warm and welcoming. You can enjoy fresh seafood, Portuguese treats, and delicious wine without breaking the bank. It’s a cheaper alternative to other Western European countries like France or the UK. nfcvb has top hosts in Portugal, such as a position in a Guest House in a nature-filled area and a friendly hostel in Lisbon.
5. **Costa Rica**: This lush Central American country is a favorite among those moving from the US. It’s close, beautiful, affordable, and very safe. Known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, which emphasizes slowing down, enjoying nature, and living life to the fullest, there are numerous living and working opportunities in permaculture projects, NGOs, eco-lodges, and retreats. You can rent affordably and have little to worry about in terms of crime.
6. **Panama**: Another country in Central America that is among the cheapest and safest places to live. While not as cheap as some of its neighboring countries like El Salvador or Nicaragua, it is generally safer. Panama has a multicultural community with students, travelers, ex-pats, and locals. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities around the country, and volunteering can help you connect with locals and stay safe. Consider doing digital media for an NGO, woodworking for a permaculture project, or tutoring locals in English.
7. **Mexico**: With a diverse landscape and vibrant local culture, Mexico is an easy place to move to from the US due to its proximity. A short flight or drive from the US takes you to a country filled with beaches, coral reefs, ancient ruins, forests, mountains, lakes, farms, small villages, and big cities. The local food and transportation are very cheap, allowing you to live affordably. Save money by working in a hostel, as a handyman, teaching English, or at an animal sanctuary!
8. **Thailand**: One of the cheapest and safest places to live in Asia, Thailand is a backpacker’s paradise as everything is super affordable. Whether you’re traveling for a while or looking to relocate permanently, Thailand is worth considering. You can stretch your budget here for a long time. Food, transportation, accommodation, activities, and attractions are all cheap in Thailand. You can explore the mountains in the north, the big cities, the jungle, the plains, or the islands. Thailand is very diverse, and there are many volunteer opportunities if you want to live with and learn from the locals. Volunteer on a farm, in an Eco Lodge, or help out a hostel as a content creator.
9. **Malaysia**: A well-developed country in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has low costs, low crime, good healthcare and infrastructure, and a large number of immigrants and ex-pats. There is a strong international community and a low cost of living, making it one of the safest and cheapest places to live in Asia. With a warm climate and natural beauty, Malaysia can feel like a dream. Check out nfcvb volunteering programs in Malaysia where you can assist with content writing, painting and decorating, and gardening.
10. **Vietnam**: If you want to live abroad and teach English, Vietnam is an excellent choice. With dramatic natural landscapes, historic towns and villages, and delicious local food at a budget, Vietnam has everything you need. There are also numerous schools, providing plenty of teaching opportunities. On the nfcvb website, there are over 100 volunteer positions available in Vietnam. You can volunteer with kids with Autism, teach English to locals at a homestay, or help kids with dance, art, and music. You can teach English in the mountains or in the famous Ha Long Bay. There are many options!
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