From the Cape to the Keys: Adrian Gillan’s Top Ten Tips for wannabe gay ex-pats who’ve had enough of UK life!

The UK government estimates 13 million British nationals now live oversees. A disproportionately high number of these expats are likely to be gay – seeking out new lives, often in warmer, equally or more gay-friendly climes, perhaps with fewer family ties to keep them home. Some move with folks when young; some study or work abroad and stay; others cling to Blighty - until they retire.

Before moving…

1. Have a clear idea what you are looking for - then go for it! There is a danger that you are, in reality, attempting to flee yourself; or chasing the end of some rainbow. Ask what it is the new location will actually add to your life.
2. Do your homework. Can you move there lawfully, and safely, in terms of both immigration and your sexuality? And can you afford to do so?
3. Don't rush - try holidays or reconnaissance trips first. Visit often and for extended periods - at different times of the year. Can you cope when the sun doesn’t shine?
Having moved…
4. Don't sell your home in the UK for at least a year. Think about renting an apartment for the first 6-12 months abroad.
5. Either find a genuinely brilliant relocation agent; or, if you do things yourself, take time and care - to find the right home; register with authorities re residence or work; set up bank accounts etc
6. Embrace change. Be positive. Always look forward. Expect culture shock. It can take well over a year to adjust.
7. Learn the language (if it’s not English) – in fact, start at least six months prior; and learn the culture - join in and enjoy.
8. Don’t get too stuck in any “expat clique”. Meeting locals is the best way to learn and adapt.
9. Still travel. You may have just gone half way around the world, but a whole new hemisphere awaits!
10. Don’t be afraid to revise your plans – especially if things don’t feel right after giving it a good go.


Box-out : Queer British Expat Hotspots!

1. AFRICA: Cape Town, South Africa
2. AMERICAS: Buenos Aires, Argentina
3. AMERICAS: Key West, USA
4. AMERICAS: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
5. ASIA: Hong Kong
6. ASIA: Patong, Thailand
7. AUSTRALIA: Sydney, Australia
8. EUROPE: Amsterdam, Netherlands
9. EUROPE: Barcelona, Spain
10. EUROPE: Rome, Italy


Some good websites for British people who are considering becoming, or who have just become, expats: www.britishexpats.com; www.britishexpat.com

Adrian Gillan