A British family who took the plunge and relocated to the other side of the world have declared their move as “the best decision they ever made”, detailing the numerous benefits since leaving.
Kayleigh Hall, who documents her family’s travels on Instagram, shared a video which began by showcasing the dreary UK weather they left behind. “Nine months ago we booked a one-way ticket out of the UK,” she revealed in a caption.
Kayleigh detailed how the family facilitated their move by “selling, donating and giving up everything we owned”, expressing no regrets about leaving their previous property behind.
In her candid video, Kayleigh listed the reasons that spurred the Halls to embark on a fresh start. “Fed up with the grey skies, misery, a school system not fit for purpose, working to survive, quality of life dwindling, negativity and a healthcare system in crisis,” she bemoaned.
As they disposed of their excess possessions and packed their essentials, Kayleigh clarified: “Yes no country is perfect, we aren’t looking for that.” Instead, she expanded on their aspirations: “We’re looking for a country that is safe, friendly, affordable, warm, slow living, prioritising experiences over things, a place where we don’t get taxed on things taxed, a country where we can raise our family in peace.”
Six months after establishing themselves in their new abode, Kayleigh affirmed that her family are “convinced” they’ve made the correct choice, describing their new life as “incredible”.
“We still don’t know when we’ll settle [permanently] and where,” she confessed. “It definitely won’t be the UK. We are loving our adventures so far and have so much more to experience.” Kayleigh, who has based her fmaily in Malaysia for now, concluded: “Being able to spend all day as a family is a blessing. Our children are growing, thriving, and happier than ever. I am so grateful I get to spend so much time with them and my husband.”
The Halls’ decision to live abroad has sparked debate among their Instagram followers, with some cautioning that the “grass isn’t always greener”. One user expressed disappointment, saying: “I find this video very negative. You’re more than happy to have your own opinion and move wherever you want but completely roasting country you’re coming from and not saying anything positive about this country is really wrong.”
They added: “Yes, weather is nowhere near as hot as in Portugal, Greece and Spain but thanks to that UK is so green. There is so many beautiful places in here.”
Another agreed, lilisting several advantages of residing in the UK: “UK is beautiful, misty and grey in autumn and gorgeous in summer. Fifth largest economy in the world with immense opportunities. Strong chemical, environmental and safety policies. Highly regulated food and pharmaceutical industry.”
Whilst a sceptic posed the question: “Be interesting to see what happens if one of you needs medical care, suppose you won’t come back to use the NHS will you?”
Others expressed their support for the family, however, with one individual extending warm praise: “Amazing well done, your family are going to have such amazing memories.”
A second person vented their frustration about life in the UK: “I think it was the best decision you’ve ever made. I’ve been living in the UK for over 20 years, and I haven’t gained anything good from this country. Just five more years, and I’ll be leaving for good. Life here hasn’t felt normal – it’s been a constant fight for survival.”
And a third shared their own success story: “Much respect! Leaving the UK was the best decision I’ve ever made too! I haves lived in Tuscany, Italy for the last 24 years. It’s not perfect, but for me it’s a great quality of life. Most people don’t ever consider moving country as an option…sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t, but until you try you’ll never know!”.