Spain is one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations for a reason – but with anti-tourism movements in Majorca and Benidorm, Brits are considering other options
Spain, the beloved holiday haven for many Brits and home to thousands of British expats, seems to be facing a bit of rough weather. With anti-tourism sentiments brewing in some hotspots, Brits are on the lookout for new, welcoming destinations to call home.
Enter three alternative sun-soaked countries making waves among UK citizens looking to relocate – tipped by experts at John Mason International. Topping the list is Panama, famed for its sultry summers with mercury hitting 34C in July, bustling city vibes akin to Barcelona but sans the tourist throng.
Home to a diverse population of over 4.5 million and steeped in history since its Spanish colonial days, Panama is courting Europeans afresh. Simon Hood, the big cheese at John Mason, highlights Panama’s open arms policy to British folks aiming for a permanent pin on the map, remarking: “Relocation has never been easier. Countries looking for inward investment are increasingly turning to Residency Through Incorporation, and without a doubt it has been a huge success in Panama.”
Simon is referring to the ‘Friendly Nations Visa’ scheme, one of the simplest residency programmes globally. It’s open to Brits, and all you need to do is prove financial ties to Panama, usually $5,000 USD in a local bank.
After a couple of years, you can secure permanent residency. Mexico is second on the list, offering a popular path for Brits looking to relocate, reports the Express.
Since 2018, John Mason has seen nearly a 100% increase in moves from the UK. This is partly because moving there is so straightforward.
Simon also emphasises their relaxed visa system for permanent stays: “We’ve helped a lot of people through Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa, largely because of how easy it is.
“All you need is either a $2,000 a month income, or $35,000 in savings to qualify, you can take the paperwork to the consulate, and you get four years to stay, that’s really as complicated as it is.”
The third and final hotspot that Brits are flocking to is Costa Rica. According to Numbero, while some imports can be pricey, transport, monthly bills, childcare, and rent are much cheaper than in the UK.
Preschool in Costa Rica costs a third of what some parents pay in England, at £440 a month, and the weather is certainly better. In the summer, temperatures reach up to 30C, and there are benefits for older Brits looking for a sunny retirement spot.
Simon said: “Both the Pensionado and Rentista visas make for good options for moving. With a £1,000 a month pension, retirees can achieve a great quality of life for much cheaper than the UK, whilst working professionals need to make a little over double that to qualify. At John Mason we predict these schemes will continue to attract inquires for years to come.”
