At 43, Nicole Brewer, a New American, decided she needed to be more financially secure. She found her own sense of fulfillment by teaching English in South Korea. Brewer experienced the burden of her educational debt from the University of Michigan. Eager to break free from the confines of her circumstances, she sought her fortune abroad from the US. Today, she’s flourishing in a diverse and welcoming community with a low cost of living.

Brewer's journey began in 2012 when she boarded a plane with two suitcases, determined to forge a new life abroad. At first, she intended to go back to the United States, but in the end she made the choice not to go back home after all.

"That's when I started looking at opportunities. I said, 'I'll think outside the box, look at some teaching jobs abroad.'" - Nicole Brewer

Brewer’s decision illustrates a significant and growing trend of Americans looking for a lower cost of living and an enriching experience abroad.

Brewer is now teaching English at an elementary school in South Korea. Without pandemic-related assistance, his regular earnings are around $3,400 monthly, including summer and school break periods. This income means she can live comfortably while saving for her future. Her fiscal plan demonstrates an impressive level of planning and a responsible approach to long-term stability.

Rent is $650 and food, including groceries and meals purchased outside the home, is $348. Transportation through taxi fares is second at $277 and discretionary spending on clothing, gifts and fees is third at $133. Health and wellness costs, from spa visits to prescriptions, total $65.

On her budget she sets aside $15 for a Netflix subscription and $10 for a phone bill. Even with these recurring expenses, Brewer has found the wiggle room to invest about $22,000 in stocks and cryptocurrency. She’s been able to finally pay off her credit cards. She holds an estimated $24,600 in student debt, accrued during her time studying at the University of Michigan for her undergrad years. Even with this financial burden, her finances still hold up.

Her biggest spend, though, was a trip to Bali, Indonesia, for $2,630. Such travel opportunities are a significant perk of her life abroad, allowing her to explore new cultures and broaden her horizons.

Brewer is quick to point out the peace of mind she’s discovered since moving to South Korea.

"It's not an easy life to be on the other side of the world from your family, especially when emergencies and family situations come up," - Nicole Brewer

Supportive community and safe environment are very big parts of her well-being, too.

"You have to take the good with the bad. But overall, I do have a peace of mind living here because it's so safe and people are really kind-hearted." - Nicole Brewer

The hospitality of the local population has been a key factor in her positive experience.

"They welcome me. They say, 'Oh, hello, sister,' when I get in taxis. They call me sister like I'm one of them because I respect the culture," - Nicole Brewer

Little wonder that Brewer’s story resonates so strongly with most expatriates. Living abroad has given them all financial benefits, personal development, and a better sense of community. Her journey truly illustrates the amazing things that can happen when one person chooses to leave their comfort zone. Consciously choosing a new lifestyle allows her to pursue new possibilities.

"It's been very great. I wouldn't have stayed as long as I had if it wasn't a good life here." - Nicole Brewer