With its outdoor lifestyle, friendly schools, and beaches, Australia was voted the best country in the world for expatriate parents to raise their children, a survey conducted by HSBC bank revealed.
The poll said that Australia offered the best environment for active and healthy children, with over 75% of expat children spending extra time outdoors compared to those in their home country. These children also had an easier time making friends and adjusting to new school environments, while schools in Britain and the US were found to be the least child-friendly for foreigners.
The survey conducted the study on at least 3,100 expatriates in 50 countries, including the six major expatriate hubs: the UK, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, the US, Australia and Singapore. Respondents evaluated their adopted homes regarding the quality of education, childcare, ease of integration, time spent outdoors, and cost of raising children.
Australia had the most number of expatriate parents who have reported an improved quality of life, while nearly half claimed that moving to the UK would not have a positive effect.
Of the top six, Singapore was ranked second overall, followed by Hong Kong, the UAE, the US, and Britain. However, Singapore was ranked first in terms of safety, whilst Australia was slightly marked down on the quality of childcare.
Parents saw the US and Britain as less healthy countries to live in as kids in these places spend more time playing computer games and watching TV.
Overall, expatriate parents believed that their kids benefited after moving to another country, with 50% making new friends easily, 48% adapting well to new culture, and 49% adjusting well to new school environment.
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I live in Ecuador and it is a wonderful country. Its people are so nice and kind, they will give you the most warming welcome. I have put together a helpful fact sheet, and also an article on Ecuadorian manners and customs.