Sydney Australia
It seems that bad weather and a tumbling economy are finally catching up with residents in Britain, as new research reveals that 48 per cent of the population would like to emigrate.
The fact that the top four countries are all English speaking indicates that language is a key factor when looking to potentially move abroad.
The study, conducted by www.GlobalVisas.com, also revealed that Australia tops the list of places Britons would most like to emigrate to if given the chance, closely followed by the US and New Zealand; with ‘weather’ being the top reason for those living in the UK wanting to move. (scroll down for list of top 10 countries people want to emigrate to).
The poll of 1,587 adults living in the UK also found that nearly three quarters would like to emigrate from Britain in search of better weather, while for two thirds it is about having a better career and for half it’s the appeal of finding a more laid back lifestyle.
Gary Smith of www.GlobalVisas.com said: “With the winter we’ve just had, and in some ways are still having, it’s no surprise that ‘better weather’ came out on top of the list of reasons why people would want to leave the UK in favour of a location abroad.
“Australia being the favourite place is again unsurprising, as the country is renowned for its sunshine, laid back lifestyle and friendly people. The thought of sunning yourself on Bondi beach after a day in the office is understandably appealing!”
However, despite almost half of Britons claiming they would like to emigrate just five per cent of the total respondents said they thought they’d actually take the steps to leave the UK in future.
‘Financial aituation’ was the most common reason holding people back, according to two thirds of those who would like to emigrate but thought they wouldn’t.
Gary added: “The fact that the top four countries are all English speaking indicates that language is a key factor when looking to potentially move abroad.
“Emigrating is a big step and moving somewhere where there’s no common language ups the stakes considerably. European destinations also feature low on our list as the love of the Spanish Costas appears to have faded with the strength of the Euro.”
Top 10 countries people want to emigrate to:
1. Australia - 62%
2. United States - 58%
3. New Zealand - 51%
4. Canada - 36%
5. Brazil - 33%
6. Turkey - 29%
7. Spain - 25%
8. UAE/Dubai – 18%
9. Norway - 16%
10. France - 11%
Top 10 reasons for emigrating:
1. For better weather - 71%
2. In search of a better career - 64%
3. For a more laid back lifestyle - 52%
4. Friendlier people overseas - 48%
5. Lower living costs - 44%
6. Better availability for activities - 39%
7. Lower stress levels - 32%
8. Less crowding - 27%
9. Educational standards - 25%
10. Following family - 9%
Where would you like to emigrate to and why? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @FemaleFirst_UK
Tagged in Travel