Who are you?
I am Colin, 47 years old and I currently work for a bank
Where, when and why did you move abroad?
Moved to Malta in March 2014 , moved to Malta After visiting the island for over 35 years. I was sick of the same old crap in the Uk and wanted to try a different culture.What challenges did you face during the move?
Everything was a challenge, I had to sort out passports for the dogs and find a way of getting them here in one piece. In the end I drove them here from England, I will never forget the experience. Other challenge was finding a job. Believe me this is not easy.
How did you find somewhere to live?
I eventually rang an ad in The Times of Malta newspaper. Estate agents are a waste of time. Only use them after trying all other sources. Once I found the property it was very straight forward. Micheal Stockdale was the guy who sorted everything for me.
If you have pets as we do you will struggle to find a decent property.
Are there many other expats in your area?
Yes there is, and a lot of them don’t seem to work yet are no older than me.
I heard rumours that a lot claim benefits from the UK and live here 6 months at a time. No idea if it’s true but I certainly don’t see any of them work. I have learned to take no notice what you hear in a pub from an expat. Please do your own research
What is your relationship like with the locals?
I prefer the locals to the expats, very friendly and they always stop to chat.
What do you like about life where you are?
Love the warmer weather though winter is quite lonely due to the poor winter we had.
What do you dislike about your expat life?
Seeing others around me drinking and smoking yet seem not to work. Miss my family, however, most come and visit me on a regular basis.
I miss football to a certain extent.
What is the biggest cultural difference you have experienced between your new country and life back home?
Everything is more laid back. I think I am used to it now, haha.
What do you think of the food in your new country? What are your particular likes or dislikes?
Love the food in Malta, I rarely spend over 40 euros for two of us for a meal and wine on a night out.
What advice would you give to anyone following in your footsteps?
Think long and hard if you are wanting to work here.retiring would be amazing.
Its not a holiday its a place to work and live.
You will have your ups and downs however I love it.
I work double the hours I did in the UK for less pay.
What are your plans for the future?
No idea.