Considering relocation? You’re not alone. Every year, people relocate, whether to another state or a new country. It might seem like a daunting task, but in reality, it could be the best thing for you and your family. Take it from someone who uprooted their life at 18 to pursue a new life halfway around the world (best decision I ever made). However, if you don’t have a job lined up or any direction at the moment, consider Iceland.
Named as one of the best countries to live in, Iceland offers a safe and beautiful country with benefits such as affordable housing and free education. Still not convinced? Here are five reasons why relocating to Iceland with the help of leading rental home website Rentola should be your next move.
Work and residency
It helps if you have a job lined up before the move, it’s not necessary. Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík is brimming with job prospects and if you’re part of the European Union, it’s even easier to live and work thanks to a treaty agreement. Iceland is also known for its high living standards and is ideal for those who prefer the finer things in life. However, before you settle on a forever home, you can rent a room in Reykjavík while you look for that special place to call home.
If you can put up with the cold, then Iceland is perfect for you. Be mindful, Iceland is located on one of the earth’s hot spots, which means it has four seasons, but all four can happen in one day. The Gulf Stream that flows along the west and south of Iceland, brings warmth from the Caribbean.
Free education and health care
Did you know Iceland has the highest life expectancy in Europe? Health Insurance in Iceland is covered by the state, with individuals paying their contribution through taxes and service fees. If you’re a European Health Insurance cardholder, you’re covered.
The other great thing about Iceland is education is free (age 6 to 16) and world-class. To keep it simple, it’s the government’s attitude that everyone should be entitled to the same education, regardless of sex, residential location, handicap, financial status or religion. Their literacy rate is 99% and students are taught English, among many other languages.
Low on crime
Everyone in Iceland is friendly. It has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It’s not hard to see why. Iceland is one of those countries that take care of its people, and with access to healthcare, education, and jobs, there’s no reason for violence.
Language
One of the main concerns of moving to a new country is the language barrier. While Icelandic is the official language of Iceland, over 90% of Icelanders speak fluent English. If you’re working in a job other than housekeeping, fluency in English is a must. However, if you’re considering moving there for a long period, try to learn Icelandic. It will help your transition as a local much easier.
Nature and landscape
I would put this as the number one reason, but I guess job prospects and health care conditions trump impressive glaciers, Fjords, and basalt cliffs. Imagine falling asleep under the Aurora lights every night and waking to snow-capped mountains, wondering black sand beaches and marveling at powerful waterfalls caused by melting ice. This is what life in Iceland is. Surrounded by immeasurable beauty, Iceland is a dream destination for travelers, but a superb prospect for your next stage of life.
Image credit at the very top of the article: BILLPERRY/Bigstock.com
