MomSkoop
After visiting 57 countries across six continents, I’ve learned that some places just feel like home the moment you arrive. While every destination has its charm, only a handful made me think, “I could actually live here.” These seven magical spots stole my heart with their perfect mix of culture, beauty, affordability, and lifestyle—places where I could genuinely see myself building a life.
1. Porto, Portugal
Walking through Porto feels like stepping into a living postcard. The city’s terracotta rooftops cascade down hillsides toward the Douro River, where centuries-old wine cellars line the waterfront. Port wine isn’t just a drink here—it’s woven into the culture, and locals treat you like family from day one.
What really won me over was the cost of living. Fresh seafood dinners cost less than a movie ticket back home, and renting a charming apartment in the historic center is surprisingly affordable. The weather stays mild year-round, perfect for daily strolls through cobblestone streets.
Portugal’s visa options for remote workers make settling here easier than ever. Plus, the entire country feels safe and welcoming to foreigners.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Mountains embrace this northern Thai city like a protective hug. Ancient temples with golden spires peek out between modern cafes where digital nomads tap away on laptops. Chiang Mai somehow balances spiritual tradition with contemporary convenience in a way that feels completely natural.
The food scene alone could keep you here forever—street vendors serve pad thai and mango sticky rice for pocket change, while upscale restaurants offer fusion cuisine that rivals any global capital. Healthcare is top-notch and ridiculously cheap compared to Western countries.
Did you know? Chiang Mai hosts over 300 temples within city limits. The community of expats is thriving but not overwhelming, creating a sweet spot where you can easily make friends while still experiencing authentic Thai culture daily.
3. Medellín, Colombia
Forget everything you think you know about this city—Medellín has transformed into one of South America’s most innovative urban spaces. Cable cars whisk residents up mountainsides, connecting neighborhoods while offering breathtaking valley views. The spring-like weather earned it the nickname “City of Eternal Spring,” and that reputation is well-deserved.
Colombians are genuinely some of the warmest people I’ve encountered anywhere. They celebrate life with infectious enthusiasm, whether through salsa dancing, coffee culture, or weekend festivals. The cost of living lets you enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Infrastructure improvements over recent decades have made getting around easy and safe. Fresh tropical fruit, world-class coffee, and mountain hiking are all part of everyday life here.
4. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Europe’s best-kept secret sits nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Ljubljana combines fairytale architecture with a laid-back vibe that’s rare in European capitals. The entire city center is car-free, making it perfect for cycling or leisurely walks along the river.
Slovenia punches way above its weight for a small country. Within an hour’s drive, you can reach stunning lakes, mountain trails, underground caves, or Mediterranean beaches. The education system ranks among Europe’s finest, and nearly everyone speaks excellent English.
What surprised me most was how clean and organized everything feels without being stuffy or pretentious. Local markets overflow with organic produce, and the café culture encourages lingering over coffee for hours. Safety levels are exceptionally high throughout the country.
5. Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure capital of the world sounds like marketing hype until you actually visit. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and pristine lakes, Queenstown makes you feel alive in ways few places can match. Bungee jumping was literally invented here, but you don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie to fall in love with this place.
The outdoor lifestyle becomes your default setting—hiking, skiing, kayaking, and mountain biking are just normal weekend activities. Despite its remote location, the town has sophisticated restaurants, excellent wine from nearby regions, and a thriving arts scene.
New Zealanders (Kiwis) have a refreshingly down-to-earth attitude and a strong sense of community. Yes, it’s pricier than other spots on this list, but the quality of life and natural beauty feel priceless.
6. Tallinn, Estonia
Stepping into Tallinn’s Old Town feels like time travel to medieval Europe, except your phone works perfectly because Estonia is one of the world’s most digitally advanced nations. This quirky combination of ancient and ultra-modern creates something truly special. You can explore 13th-century towers in the morning and handle all your government paperwork online in the afternoon.
Estonia pioneered e-residency, making it incredibly entrepreneur-friendly for remote workers and digital business owners. The startup scene buzzes with innovation—Skype was born here, after all. Winters are cold and dark, but Estonians embrace cozy café culture and sauna traditions that make the season feel magical rather than miserable.
The Baltic Sea location means easy access to Scandinavia and the rest of Europe.
7. Oaxaca, Mexico
Rich cultural traditions pulse through every street in this southern Mexican gem. Oaxaca takes its food seriously—mole sauce alone comes in seven distinct varieties here, and the mezcal flows freely at celebrations that happen remarkably often. Indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec influences blend with Spanish colonial heritage to create something uniquely captivating.
Artists and craftspeople fill workshops throughout the city, creating textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings using techniques passed down through generations. The community welcomes newcomers warmly while maintaining a strong cultural identity. Living costs remain wonderfully low, allowing you to enjoy restaurant meals daily and support local artisans guilt-free.
Weekend trips to ancient ruins, mountain villages, and Pacific beaches are all within easy reach. The climate stays comfortable year-round with minimal humidity.