Nothing at all would prevent it except your own individual acceptance of what is different.

I was born in Scotland and left at age 7 to live in Canada. I have since lived in several different countries including a 6.5 year stretch back in Scotland between 1999 and 2006. While I enjoyed my time there, I would NOT want to continue living there for various reasons. I am currently living back in Canada.

From my viewpoint, there is nothing that is better in Scotland and a whole lot of things that are better in Canada. So my question would be what is it that you think you will prefer in Scotland?

My wife who is Scottish and lived there all her life until 2006, would not return now under any circumstances. She sees life as far better here in Canada. We moved to Canada when she became eligible for retirement (I already was retired).

The cost of living is lower in Canada, the weather is better, the infrastructure is better, customer service is better, just to name a few reasons why we feel that way.

If however, you came to Canada when you were in your 30s or 40s and still think of Scotland as 'home' and have never become 'Canadian' in your own mind, then I can understand if the call to return is strong for you. But how you will find living there after a long absence is something you can only discover after returning. If you have been in Canada long enough to become used to Canadian norms, you may find living in Scotland is far different from any return 'visits' you have made over the years.

So my advice would be that if you really want to return, then do so and see what happens but do not think of it as necessarily being a permanent move.

Retirement does NOT require anyone to make a final decision about where to live. A lot of people see it as a 'last' decision when in fact it is really only a 'next' decision. Seeing it as 'where will I live next' gives you a whole different perspective on things. For example, I do not think it is a good idea to buy a property anywhere until you have lived there for at least a year and preferably 2 years to see whether or not you are likely to 'stick'. If you think of it as permanent, you are much more likely to buy a home than if you approach it as just being the 'next' place you are going to try living in. 'Next' thinking changes your decision making approach.

Post a Reply

20abuse

Choosing an expat health insurance provider is an important decision. Get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family.

Learn More Get a Quote

Thank you. Very wise advice, I will have to think more in depth regarding a move. I left when I was very young, but when I am back visiting my aunts, uncles, cousins, etc., I somehow feel that I belong.

I have never lived in any one place for long since coming to Canada, so my ties here are limited to family.

Perhaps an extended stay in Scotland would be the best course of action. Again, thanks for the advice...

Post a Reply

10abuse

I guess it is all probably moot now. I have just been diagnosed with cancer.

It would have been a great experience ...

Post a Reply

00abuse

Sorry to hear that arcticscot.

Best wishes.

Post a Reply

00abuse