Nicole Brewer, originally from Detroit, says she’s found a simpler, more fulfilling life abroad and doesn’t see herself moving back to the United States anytime soon.
Brewer first left the U.S. in 2009 to teach English in South Korea. She eventually settled in Nizwa, Oman, where she works at a university earning around $40,000 a year, plus extra income from freelance writing and travel planning. Her monthly rent is just $650 for a furnished two-bedroom apartment, and she appreciates the stress-free pace of life. “I wouldn’t have stayed as long as I have if it wasn’t a good life here,” she says.
How this 43-year-old American discovered greater freedom and fewer worries by relocating abroad
What prompted Brewer to remain abroad for so long? She points to a friendlier environment, lower costs, and the opportunity to travel extensively during her winter and summer breaks. In fact, she has visited places like Namibia, Seychelles, and Bali.
“Who wouldn’t want to explore the world while living affordably?” she asks. Wondering if the cultural shift was too difficult? Brewer admits there were challenges—culture shock, learning local customs, and communicating in a region where English isn’t the primary language—but she adjusted by respecting traditions and staying open-minded. Below is a quick look at how some of her monthly expenses add up:
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | $650 |
| Dining Out | $160 |
| Transportation | $100 |
| Utilities | Included |
| Total (est.) | $910 |
Ten essential lessons that every potential expat should learn before moving overseas
- Research diligently: Gather accurate details about local customs, job opportunities, and cost of living.
- Embrace new cultures: Respect traditions, dress codes, and social norms to integrate seamlessly.
- Seek advice from expats: Join online forums and community groups for real-world insights.
Does living in a more conservative culture mean fewer freedoms? Brewer’s answer is a firm no. “I’ve had to adapt, but in many ways, I feel even freer because my stress level is so much lower,” she explains.
¿Why Nicole Brewer believes following your heart is the key to living happily abroad? Though the distance from her family can be hard, Brewer believes the personal growth she’s experienced is priceless. She encourages those curious about expat life to listen to their intuition and gather information before taking the leap. “If I had let fear or other people’s opinions stop me,” she says, “I’d have missed out on an incredible adventure.”
In the end, Brewer’s story highlights a fundamental message: the world is open to those willing to explore it. She urges others to trust their instincts, do thorough research, and stay curious.