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Chasing Sunshine: Family Relocates from Belfast to Lanzarote for a Better Life
Table of Contents
- 1. Chasing Sunshine: Family Relocates from Belfast to Lanzarote for a Better Life
- 2. The Impetus for Change
- 3. life on the Spanish Island
- 4. How can families maintain relationships with loved ones back home when relocating abroad?
- 5. Chasing the sun: An Interview with Expat Lifestyle Expert, Dr.Anya Sharma
- 6. The Allure of Overseas Relocation
- 7. The Belfast to Lanzarote Effect
- 8. Challenges and Considerations
- 9. A thoght-Provoking Question
In a move fueled by a desire for better weather and a more affordable lifestyle, one family from Belfast, Northern Ireland, has traded the familiar landscapes for the sunny shores of lanzarote. Kathleen Burke, a mother of two, along with her husband, made what she describes as a “very impulsive” decision to relocate in 2024, seeking respite from the high cost of living and the “horrendous” weather back home.
The Impetus for Change
The decision to move wasn’t taken lightly, but the couple felt increasingly constrained by their circumstances in Northern Ireland. In a video posted to her TikTok account, @kathb2024, which garnered over 50,000 views, Burke explained the family’s motivations. “One of the biggest reasons for moving here is the weather,” she saeid, adding, “anyone that knows us knows that we travel quite a lot and if you live in Belfast you know that the weather is terrible.”
Beyond the gloomy skies, the financial strain of entertaining their children indoors also played a notable role. Burke noted that activities like “the cinema” could cost “£60-£70.” She contrasted this with the lifestyle they envisioned in a sunnier climate: “We always wanted to have that lifestyle where we were in a sunnier climate so the kids could go on bike rides or down to the beach, walks and go to the park.”
life on the Spanish Island
As arriving in Lanzarote, the family has adapted to their new environment. Burke works in hospitality, while her husband is employed as a delivery driver. The children are enrolled in local schools and are quickly becoming fluent in Spanish. In addition, the couple has taken advantage of free adult Spanish classes offered in their community.
Financially, the move has proven beneficial. According to Burke, “The bills are a lot cheaper than we’d pay back home…some of the bills you
How can families maintain relationships with loved ones back home when relocating abroad?
Chasing the sun: An Interview with Expat Lifestyle Expert, Dr.Anya Sharma
Today, we’re diving into the growing trend of families relocating for a better quality of life. Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in expatriate lifestyles and family transitions, helps us understand the appeal and challenges of moving overseas. Welcome Dr. Sharma.
The Allure of Overseas Relocation
Archyde: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. We’ve seen a recent story about a family moving from Belfast to Lanzarote seeking sunshine and affordability. Why are we seeing more families making these significant relocation decisions?
Dr. Sharma: It’s a multifaceted issue. Primarily, people are seeking improved quality of life. This frequently enough includes better whether, more affordable living, and a different pace of life. For families,the draw can also be the perceived benefits of a multicultural habitat and greater outdoor opportunities for their children. The rise of remote work opportunities also contributes considerably, making such moves more feasible than ever before.
The Belfast to Lanzarote Effect
Archyde: The family from Belfast cited the high cost of entertainment and “horrendous” weather as key motivators. How common are these factors when you advise families considering a move to somewhere like Lanzarote?
Dr. Sharma: Extremely common! the weather plays a significant role in mental and physical well-being. The financial aspect is always a major consideration. Families are carefully weighing the cost of living, healthcare, and education when choosing a new location. The desire to escape the daily grind and create a lifestyle centered around family and well-being is a powerful driver.
Challenges and Considerations
Archyde: What are some of the biggest challenges families face when relocating to a new country, and are there resources that can definitely help?
Dr. Sharma: The initial excitement can quickly be followed by culture shock, language barriers, and the difficulty of navigating a new bureaucratic system. children may struggle with adapting to a new school and making friends.It’s vital to do your homework and establish a support network before you move. Online expat communities,relocation consultants,and language courses can be invaluable. Researching practical aspects like healthcare, schooling, and housing is critical.
A thoght-Provoking Question
Archyde: what’s one thing you think families overlook most often when planning a major relocation, and how can they address it?
Dr. Sharma: I think they often underestimate the impact on their pre-existing support system. Leaving behind friends and family is tough.Maintaining those relationships and building new ones is crucial for long-term happiness.Be proactive in staying connected with loved ones back home, and actively seek out new friendships and community involvement in your new locale. Have you ever considered moving abroad for a better quality of life? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
