Ever dreamed of throwing caution to the wind and starting a new life on the other side of the world?
That’s exactly what Lauren Elizabeth and her husband, Chris, did earlier this year – and they haven’t looked back. Travel expert Lauren (@laurenelizabeth_athome) has documented the pair’s journey and took to TikTok earlier this week to explain how they began the process.
“Seven months ago we left the UK and moved abroad to The Philippines,” she began in a video to her 55,000 followers. She explained that they sold their house, their cars and most of their belongings before quitting their full-time jobs to embark on the dream move.
Alongside footgae of their flight to Southeast Asia, Lauren continued: “At 25-years old we followed society’s norms. We got ourselves careers and bought our first house and we were progressing within our jobs – financially we did well and we had a very good life in England.”
That all changed, however, after the pair reviewed the quality time they got to spend together. “Chris was working 70 to 80 hours per week and he normally only had two days off a month as he was in a commission-based job,” Lauren explained as she could be seen packing up some of the remainder of their possessions ahead of the big move.
“We realised we were at a point that we were not ready to settle down and have children and questionned why we were sacrificing our time in our 20s when there is a whole world to explore,” she continued.
Looking for a better quality of life, Lauren and Chris booked a one-way flight to The Philippines and stayed in an Airbnb for the first month while they found their feet in their new surroundings. “That was as far as our plan went,” Lauren revealed. “We had never been to The Philippines before so we didn’t know if we were actually going to like it.”
Seven months on, however, the couple have a brand new apartment with stunning views of Bonifacio Global City below. “We have signed a lease for the next 12 months,” Lauren closed. “The plan is in October next year we’ll move on to our next destination.”
“Life is short, just enjoy,” responded one of Lauren’s followers, prompting her to agree: “Absolutely! I learnt that the hardway in nursing! It really does put life into perspective.”
Another hailed: “Best decision guys, wish you best of luck in your new life.” A third concurred: “Well done and congrats! Best thing anyone can do tbh is leave and live your bestest life.”
Whilst a fourth added: “Life is short. If this is what you want so you have no regrets, the best of luck to you. Look forward to sharing your adventures.”