That Feeling You Get When You’re on Vacation That Makes You Want to Pack Up and Move There

Have you ever been on vacation and felt an overwhelming desire to pack up your life and move to that beautiful destination? You're not alone. This feeling, often called the "vacation high," is a common experience that combines the allure of new environments, the break from routine, and the pleasure of discovery. Let's explore why this feeling is so compelling and what to consider if you're thinking about making a permanent move.

The Allure of Vacation Destinations

1. Stress-Free Environment

When you're on vacation, you're free from the usual stresses of daily life. No work deadlines, household chores, or commuting hassles. This stress-free environment can make any place seem like paradise. The absence of stress allows you to enjoy the present moment fully, enhancing your perception of the location's beauty and tranquility.

2. Novelty and Adventure

Vacations are filled with new experiences, from exploring unfamiliar streets to trying exotic foods. This novelty stimulates your brain and releases dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, making you feel happier and more alive. The sense of adventure can create a powerful emotional connection to the place, making it seem like the perfect place to live.

3. Ideal Weather and Scenery

Many vacation spots are chosen for their appealing climates and scenic beauty. Whether it's the sunny beaches of Hawaii, the charming streets of Paris, or the serene mountains of Switzerland, these locations offer a visual and sensory appeal that can be intoxicating. The ideal weather and picturesque landscapes contribute to the desire to stay forever.

4. Simplified Lifestyle

On vacation, your lifestyle is simplified. You live out of a suitcase, dine out often, and indulge in leisure activities. This simplicity can be a stark contrast to the complexity of everyday life, making the vacation destination seem more manageable and appealing.

Considerations Before Making the Move

1. Reality Check

It's important to distinguish between vacation life and everyday life. The aspects that make a place great for a vacation might not be as appealing in the long term. Consider factors like employment opportunities, cost of living, healthcare, and education if you plan to move permanently.

2. Financial Implications

Moving to a new place, especially a popular vacation destination, can be expensive. Research the cost of living and compare it to your current situation. Ensure that your finances can support not just the move but also your long-term stay.

3. Cultural Adaptation

Vacationing in a place and living there are two different experiences. You need to adapt to the local culture, customs, and possibly a new language. It's crucial to consider how well you can integrate into the local community and whether you can maintain a social support network.

4. Trial Run

Before making a permanent move, consider spending an extended period in the destination. This trial run can provide insight into what daily life would be like and help you decide if it's the right fit for you. One way to do this is through a house swap, where you temporarily exchange homes with someone in your desired location. This arrangement can give you a taste of living like a local without the long-term commitment.

5. Employment and Legalities

If moving abroad, investigate visa requirements, work permits, and local job markets. Ensure that you can legally live and work in the destination and that there are ample job opportunities in your field.

Adding to Your Real Estate Portfolio For those who can't fully commit to moving but want to maintain a connection with their dream destination, owning a holiday house could be the perfect solution. This option allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—keeping your current home while having a personal retreat in a beloved vacation spot.

Here are some options and considerations:

1. Financial Benefits

Owning a holiday home can be a sound investment. It can appreciate in value over time and generate rental income when you're not using it. Ensure to research the local real estate market to make an informed decision.

2. Convenience and Comfort

Having a dedicated holiday home means you can leave personal items there, making travel easier and more comfortable. It provides a sense of stability and familiarity in a foreign place.

3. Rental Potential

If the property is in a popular tourist area, you can rent it out to vacationers when you're not using it. This can offset the costs of ownership and even turn a profit. Work with a local property management company to handle rentals and maintenance.

4. Tax Implications

Be aware of the tax implications of owning property in another province or country. There may be property taxes, rental income taxes, and other financial considerations to navigate. Consulting a tax advisor familiar with both your home country and the destination country can be beneficial.

5. Legal Considerations

Understand the legal requirements of buying real estate in your desired location. Some countries have restrictions on foreign property ownership, and there may be additional legal hoops to jump through compared to buying property in your home country.

Let's Chat About Your Options

Feeling the urge to move after a great vacation is natural, and with careful planning, it can become a reality. Whether you're considering a permanent move or adding a holiday house to your real estate portfolio, evaluating your options thoroughly is crucial. If you're interested in exploring this further, let's chat about your specific situation and how to make your vacation dream a sustainable reality.