Longer stays, calmer systems, fewer surprises

Plan the first stay abroad like real life, not vacation.

Settling Abroad helps Americans compare realistic bases, avoid expensive setup mistakes, and build the boring systems that make a one- to three-month stay feel manageable.

The long-stay field guide

A practical guide library for living abroad part-time.

For Americans who want more than vacation tips: clear guidance on choosing a base, preparing the first stay, handling healthcare, setting up money and phone systems, and knowing what to check when you arrive.

Start Here

Start with the question that fits your trip.

Whether you’re comparing countries, narrowing down cities, planning a first 90 days, or thinking about retirement abroad, the Start Here page points you to the guides that match where you are now.

Newest practical guides

Find the next guide for the step you’re planning now.

Start with a place that fits, prepare your internet and arrival setup, then use the first few days to make sure the apartment and daily routine actually work.

Practical, calm, and useful — not glossy expat fantasy.

Use these guides to narrow your options, prepare the practical details, and make your first longer stay abroad feel less uncertain from the start.