I’m seeking advice as to where I should consider permanently living. I am currently in the northeastern part of the USA. I was born and raised here, but I do not want to continue living here.
I (32F) am a single mother to a 3M. We are of Caribbean descent, and I speak Spanish. I’m an educator with a bachelors degree in elementary education and sociology. I am looking to move someplace with stellar education and opportunities for my child, walkable or mass transit options readily available, diversity (we are brown with lots of curly hair!), and an affordable housing market or offers assistance programs for a single income family. Bonus points if it is near a body of water, as we love the beach.
I’ve looked into Canada’s express entry program, and although I am considered a skilled worker, I must have at least $16,000 for the two of us to enter. I am not opposed to this at all - it would just take longer. I also think Canada may be too expensive for us in terms of housing.
Please let me hear your suggestions. Thank you so much.
Let me add on: I know that I need sole custody before I do this. Currently in court proceedings and will likely be granted sole due to a history of DV with other party.
Come to New Zealand!
Thank you! I think another person commented and said New Zealand wasn’t that great for people of color :(
Eh, there are micro aggressions. My biggest issue is denial. You’ll hear statements like NZ is not as bad as US, UK, Aus, etc. To be honest, we’re not really seen. I’m African, btw. Have lived here for more than 6 years with my 3 brown kids all under 10.
Question - why leave the states altogether instead of moving to another area? Say the Pacific North West?
Moving countries is HARD and comes with a slew of challenges but can also be very rewarding - I’m a Canadian, person of colour and am currently living in country number 4. Things I’ve noticed that might be helpful
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ethnic diversity isn’t really a thing in most of the western world. Certain cities in the US and Canada are probably the most diverse you’ll find compared to Europe.
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I cannot speak for the US but having lived in Vancouver and Toronto, I can safely say we are light years ahead when it comes to racial and gender equality than most of Europe (can’t speak for Scandinavia). Being in Europe is the first time I’ve been treated like a second class citizen.
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language is a real barrier. Sounds like you’ll need to consider somewhere that is Spanish or English friendly.
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housing is a shit show in Canada, Australia and New Zealand. At least in the major cities. Heard similar about the UK but that is just hearsay. It’s also starting to get out of hand in many major cities in Germany.
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be aware that not all education transfers well to other countries. Make sure you verify that your credentials are recognized. Some countries, like Germany, put more emphasis on education than experience.
Good luck with your search!
Thank you so much. I really value your opinion.
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Cartagena Colombia
If the $16k required to enter Canada is what’s stopping you, I am not sure you will have a good start anywhere you go. Countries that have what you describe are not the cheapest options in the word and the first few months in a new place usually drain cash (temporary housing, rent deposit, furniture, …).
gurl, if you’re even considering Canada, it’s because you have not done any research on the cartels that are fucking up us hard in the ass with the cost of living and housing crisis. Canada uses immigrants as cannon fodder to revive a dying economy. A lot of us are trying to get out of this racket of a country.
Your best bet is to look into teaching in an international school. Take a look at a website like Search Associates and just see what’s out there and where to get an idea. Some international schools will give highly discounted tuition or even free tuition for the children of their teachers too so you wouldn’t have to worry so much about your son in the local school system.
Canada looks like a great option and path of least resistance with your child.
Move to another state, I’d say somewhere south along the coast. You would be surprised how states are different one from another. NC, SC, FL etc.
You are not going to get any assistance from the government of the country you re not a citizen of, and I’m not sure if relocation to another country can solve anything that relocation to another state could not
r/Internationalteachers
Literally any international school around the world. Choose a country you want to live in and find the best International schools in that country. Kids will most likely get free & top-class education