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Stress drives Brits abroad - 4 February 2008

Stressed-out Brits are increasingly abandoning the UK for a more relaxed environment abroad. Escaping ‘pressure cooker’ lifestyles has led to more Brits moving further afield, and has resulted in a whole generation who are more At Home Abroad (AHA), according to a global study of British expatriate opinions and attitudes.

The NatWest International Personal Banking Quality of Life Report, undertaken in conjunction with the think tank, Centre for Future Studies, surveyed British expatriates from across the world.

It revealed that the desire for a better way of life was a strong reason to leave the UK, with over a third (37 per cent) of expats surveyed putting quality of life as their top factor for living abroad, closely followed by standard of living (26 per cent) and cost of living (20 per cent).

Consequently, over nine in ten (92 per cent) expats surveyed feel they have a better quality of life abroad, and six out of ten (63 per cent) do not plan to return to UK shores, feeling more At Home Abroad (AHA).

The findings show:

- 87 per cent say their life abroad is better than expected
- 91 per cent are happier than they were in the UK
- 90 per cent are financially better off
- 68 per cent consider themselves healthier
- 81 per cent have a greater sense of wellbeing

Dave Isley, Head of NatWest International Personal Banking comments: “The chance to work or retire abroad to a place in the sun has long been a desire for many Brits, and it is interesting to note for those considering the move to foreign shores that the grass can indeed be greener on the other side.

“British expatriates are clearly healthier, wealthier and happier, wherever they move to. It is interesting that the study also reveals the motivation to leave is not just dissatisfaction with life in the UK. The prospect of a good lifestyle abroad appears to finally prompt the decision to make the final leap.”

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