'Incredible' country for expats boasts 'relaxed and enjoyable' lifestyle - 'a refreshing change from the UK'

Expat in Spain shares the worst thing about moving to the European destination

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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 02/04/2025

- 15:05

GB News spoke exclusively to a British expat about life Down Under

Moving abroad is an attractive concept for many Britons who are looking for warmer weather, a slower pace of life and new opportunities.

For those who want to stay close to their families, destinations such as Spain and Portugal prove to be popular choices.


But for those who aren't put off by distance - or very long-haul flights - sunny, stunning Australia is a tempting proposition.

Founder of Hostel Gigs Rich Maw has lived in Australia, Canada and Ukraine. He spoke exclusively to GB News about the two years he spent Down Under.

Rich Maw in the Outback

'It was like living in a constant nature documentary'

Rich Maw

"Back in 2016, I made the big decision to leave the UK - and it wasn't just about escaping the sky-high cost of living.

"Sure, that was part of it, but there was something deeper going on. I was craving something more - a chance to break out of my comfort zone and experience life from a completely different perspective.

"I wanted to see the world, dive into new cultures, and do something that most people only dream about. And I've never regretted it for a second; it's the best decision I ever made.

"Australia was an absolute game-changer. The lifestyle there was nothing short of incredible."

Revealing the "best thing" about his new home, Rich said: "Unlike the UK, people seemed much more relaxed, less caught up in minute social tensions.

"There was this laidback atmosphere that just made everything feel more enjoyable and free flowing."

What most surprised him was the relaxed approach to life. "Nothing seemed to upset people," the expat claimed, "and there was this genuine appreciation for friendships and simple pleasures". He added: "It was such a refreshing change from the UK."

When Rich lived in Australia, he worked in the outback (a remote, vast and sparsely populated area) and described this as "surreal".

He explained: "Imagine starting your workday with kangaroos casually hopping around and then dealing with the occasional eastern brown snake - terrifying, sure, but also kind of exhilarating.

"It was like living in a constant nature documentary, with danger and beauty existing side by side."

Rich loved his new life so much that he wanted to make it his "long-term home". However, he admitted that the visa process was a struggle.

"Two years flies by when you're living your dream," he said, "and the visa situation was no joke".

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Melbourne, Australia

Australia is a beautiful, sunny, expat-friendly destination

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"Sponsorship felt like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded - technically possible, but it was complicated. Every form and every conversation with immigration felt like walking a tightrope.

"I wish I’d known more about the visa process and sponsorship options before I went."

1st Move International warned: "Australia is relatively strict with migration, operating a complex system. While it allows many immigrants to enter, particularly to fill skilled worker shortages and boost the economy, navigating the system can be intricate."

The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs has information on all the different visa options for short and longer stays.

Expats typically flock to places like Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth, Melbourne and the Gold Coast.

For those looking to start anew but are keen to settle closer to home, one expat spoke to GB News about the unlikely European destination she fell in love with.