Countryside Lifestyle
Living a countryside lifestyle abroad can offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The slower pace of rural living can provide a sense of tranquility and allow for a deeper connection with nature. Many people find the natural beauty of the countryside to be a refreshing change from the concrete jungle of urban areas. Additionally, rural living can offer a sense of community and closeness with neighbors, as well as opportunities for self-sufficiency through gardening, farming, and raising livestock. Of course, living in a rural area in a foreign country can also come with its own set of challenges, such as limited access to resources and a lack of infrastructure. However, for those willing to adapt to the slower pace of life, the benefits of a countryside lifestyle abroad can greatly outweigh any potential difficulties.
Types of Countryside Properties
- Cottages
- Farmhouses
- Barn conversions
- Country estates
- Country villas
- Ranch style homes
- Stone houses
- Chalets
- Log cabins
- Country manors
Top Destinations
- Portugal
- Spain
- France
- Italy
- Greece
- Hungary
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Poland
- England
Why Live in the Country?
Living a country lifestyle abroad can offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The slower pace of rural living can provide a sense of tranquility and allow for a deeper connection with nature. Many people find the natural beauty of the countryside to be a refreshing change from the concrete jungle of urban areas. Popular countries for a countryside lifestyle abroad include Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Greece which offer a combination of natural beauty, historic and cultural heritage, and a slower pace of life. However, living in a rural area in a foreign country can also come with its own set of challenges, such as limited access to resources and a lack of infrastructure. Additionally, the cost of living in a rural area in a foreign country can vary greatly depending on the location, and it’s important to research and budget accordingly. However, for those willing to adapt to the slower pace of life, the benefits of a countryside lifestyle abroad can greatly outweigh any potential difficulties. Living in a rural area can also provide an opportunity to be self-sufficient and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Benefits of Rural Living
Living in the country allows for easy access to fresh, locally-grown produce. Many rural areas have an abundance of farm stands and farmers markets where residents can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
Country living offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. Many rural areas have large tracts of public lands for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
The night sky in the country is often much clearer than in the city, allowing for stargazing and observing celestial events such as meteor showers.
Country living provides a sense of community and closeness with neighbors. Many rural areas have a strong sense of community, and residents often support and rely on each other.
Some rural areas are home to historic sites and landmarks. Living in the country can provide easy access to historical sites, and many rural areas have a rich cultural heritage that residents can learn about and appreciate.
Choosing the Right Location
When choosing a location for a countryside lifestyle abroad, there are several factors to consider. Climate, culture, cost of living, and access to resources are all important considerations. For example, if you prefer warm weather, a Mediterranean climate might be the best choice. If you are interested in immersing yourself in a different culture, a location with a strong cultural heritage might be a good option. The cost of living in the area is also an important factor to consider, especially if you are planning to relocate permanently. Additionally, it is important to think about the type of lifestyle you want to live, whether it be equestrian, farm and ranch, mountain, vineyard or historic.
Equestrian Lifestyle
The equestrian lifestyle is one that centers around the love and care of horses. This can include owning and caring for your own horse, competing in equestrian events, or simply enjoying leisurely rides through the countryside. The appeal of this lifestyle can vary, but it often includes a love of animals, the outdoors, and a desire to connect with nature in a unique and meaningful way.
Living the equestrian lifestyle abroad can provide unique opportunities to experience different cultures and landscapes through horseback riding. Some rural areas abroad have a rich equestrian culture, with a wide variety of equestrian facilities and opportunities available. Many countries have equestrian clubs and organizations that provide resources for training and competing in equestrian events.
When looking for a suitable horse in a foreign country, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder or trainer. It may also be beneficial to have a veterinarian familiar with equine health in the area to help with the selection process. Additionally, it may be helpful to find a local trainer or instructor who can provide guidance on training and care for your horse.
One thing to keep in mind is that different countries may have different regulations and laws regarding the importation and ownership of horses, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations in the country you are planning to move to.
Overall, living the equestrian lifestyle abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you find the right horse and training resources in your new location.
Farm & Ranch Lifestyle
The farm and ranch lifestyle is one that centers around the care and management of land and animals. This can include growing crops, raising livestock, or managing a combination of both. The appeal of this lifestyle can vary, but it often includes a love of the land and animals, a desire for self-sufficiency, and a connection to a more traditional way of life.
Living the farm and ranch lifestyle abroad can provide unique opportunities to experience different cultures and landscapes. Some rural areas abroad have a rich farming and ranching culture, with a wide variety of land and opportunities available for purchase or lease. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the availability of land, regulations and laws may vary from country to country.
When looking for a suitable farm or ranch abroad, it is important to do your research and find a reputable real estate agent or land broker. It may also be beneficial to have a local expert familiar with the area to help with the selection process. Additionally, it may be helpful to find a local farmer or rancher who can provide guidance on setting up and managing a farm or ranch in the area.
It’s also important to research the local climate, soil, and water resources to ensure that the land is suitable for the type of farming or ranching you want to do. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding farming or ranching practices, as these can vary widely from country to country.
Overall, living the farm and ranch lifestyle abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you find the right land and resources in your new location.
Mountain Lifestyle
The mountain lifestyle is one that centers around the love of nature, adventure, and outdoor activities in a natural environment of mountains. This can include hiking, skiing, climbing, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the mountains. The appeal of this lifestyle can vary, but it often includes a love of nature, a desire for a peaceful and secluded living, and a connection to the natural environment.
Living the mountain lifestyle abroad can provide unique opportunities to experience different cultures and landscapes. Some rural areas abroad have a rich mountain culture, with a wide variety of mountain property and opportunities available for purchase or lease. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the availability of mountain property, regulations and laws may vary from country to country.
When looking for a suitable mountain home abroad, it is important to do your research and find a reputable real estate agent or land broker familiar with mountain property. It may also be beneficial to have a local expert familiar with the area to help with the selection process. Additionally, it may be helpful to find a local resident who can provide guidance on setting up and living in a mountain home in the area.
It’s also important to research the local climate, infrastructure and accessibility to ensure that the property is suitable for the type of living you want to do. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding mountain property, as these can vary widely from country to country.
Overall, living the mountain lifestyle abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you find the right mountain property and resources in your new location.
Vineyard Lifestyle
The vineyard lifestyle is one that centers around the cultivation of grapes and the production of wine. This can include planting, pruning, harvesting, and managing the vineyard, as well as participating in the wine-making process. The appeal of this lifestyle can vary, but it often includes a love of nature, a desire for a peaceful and secluded living, and a connection to the natural environment. Many people are drawn to the vineyard lifestyle for the opportunity to be a part of the wine-making process, and for the ability to create something unique and beautiful.
Living the vineyard lifestyle abroad can provide unique opportunities to experience different cultures and landscapes. Some rural areas abroad have a rich wine culture, with a wide variety of vineyard property and opportunities available for purchase or lease. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the availability of vineyard property, regulations and laws may vary from country to country.
When looking for a suitable vineyard abroad, it is important to do your research and find a reputable real estate agent or land broker familiar with vineyard property. It may also be beneficial to have a local expert familiar with the area to help with the selection process. Additionally, it may be helpful to find a local resident who can provide guidance on setting up and living in a vineyard in the area.
It’s also important to research the local climate, soil, and water resources to ensure that the property is suitable for grape cultivation. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding vineyard property, as these can vary widely from country to country.
Overall, living the vineyard lifestyle abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you find the right vineyard property and resources in your new location. It’s also important to be prepared for the hard work and dedication that comes with running a vineyard.
Historic Lifestyle
The historic lifestyle is one that centers around living in and preserving homes or other structures that have significant historical value or architectural interest. This can include restoring or maintaining a property’s original features, as well as learning about the history of the property and the people who have lived there. The appeal of this lifestyle can vary, but it often includes a love of history, a desire to live in a unique and beautiful home, and a connection to the past.
Living the historic lifestyle abroad can provide unique opportunities to experience different cultures and historic sites. Some rural areas abroad have a rich cultural heritage, with a wide variety of historic property and opportunities available for purchase or lease. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the availability of historic property, regulations and laws may vary from country to country.
When looking for a suitable historic home abroad, it is important to do your research and find a reputable real estate agent or land broker familiar with historic property. It may also be beneficial to have a local expert familiar with the area to help with the selection process. Additionally, it may be helpful to find a local resident who can provide guidance on living in a historic home in the area.
It’s also important to research the local climate, soil, and water resources to ensure that the property is suitable for preserving. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding historic property, as these can vary widely from country to country.
Overall, living the historic lifestyle abroad can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you find the right historic property and resources in your new location. It’s also important to be prepared for the hard work and dedication that comes with preserving a historic home.
Overcoming Challenges
Living in a rural area abroad can present a number of challenges, including adapting to a new culture and language, navigating the legal and financial aspects of buying property abroad, and dealing with potential hazards such as natural disasters and crime.
Adapting to a new culture can be difficult, especially if you are not familiar with the customs and traditions of the local people. It’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the culture and language of the country you plan to move to. It can also be helpful to immerse yourself in the local community by taking classes, volunteering, and building relationships with local residents.
Navigating the legal and financial aspects of buying property abroad can also be challenging. It’s important to work with a reputable real estate agent or land broker who is familiar with the laws and regulations of the country you plan to move to. Additionally, it’s important to work with a financial advisor or accountant who can help you navigate the financial aspects of buying property abroad.
Living in a rural area can also present potential hazards, such as natural disasters and crime. It’s important to research the area you plan to move to, and be aware of any potential hazards that may be present. It’s also important to have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies and natural disasters, and to be aware of any local crime and safety concerns.
Overall, living in a rural area abroad can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to be aware of the challenges that may be present and to be prepared to deal with them. By doing your research and working with professionals, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy the many benefits of living in a rural area abroad.
Final thoughts
In summary, a countryside lifestyle abroad can offer many benefits, including a serene and peaceful atmosphere, the opportunity to live in a beautiful natural setting, and the chance to experience a new culture and way of life. There are many types of countryside properties available around the world, from cottages and farmhouses to barn conversions and country villas. Some popular destinations for a countryside lifestyle abroad include countries such as France, Italy, and Spain, as well as less well-known destinations like Portugal and Bulgaria.
In conclusion, a countryside lifestyle abroad can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the challenges that may be present and to be prepared to deal with them. By doing your research, working with professionals, and being open to new experiences, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy the many benefits of living in a rural area abroad.
ica
A Seattle native who decided to embark on a journey of a lifetime. Together with my husband Kostika, we're on a mission to find our new home abroad and live the life we've always dreamed of. From exploring new cultures to meeting fascinating people, we're excited for all the adventures that lie ahead in our pursuit of creating the ultimate international lifestyle.
