Top 10 Countries for Expats: Best Places to Live and Work as a Climber
Do you love climbing and traveling around the world? Do you wonder how great it would be if you could do both of them together? Well, now is your chance to fulfill that dream. You’re not alone! Climbers who crave exploration head off to new corners of the globe, chalk bag in tow, while pursuing better career opportunities in the world’s top climbing destinations. In this article, we’ve compiled the ten best countries for expat climbers, breaking down what makes each country unique and how to make your climbing dreams a reality. But first…
Why Aspire To Be an Expat Climber?
Before we reveal our ultimate top picks, let’s talk about the idea of living simply and making the most of where you are. You’ll Be Able to:
1. Experience a wide variety of climbing terrains
2. Discover new cultures
3. May reduce your cost of living
4. Establish a global network of climbers
5. Invaluable experience in work overseas
What makes a country great for expat climbers?
When considering the top countries we affectionately refer to as an expat climbers’ paradise, we factored in:
1. The quality and variety of climbing areas
2. Cost of living
3. Work visa availability
4. Local climbing community
5. Overall quality of life
6. Language barriers
7. Safety considerations
Get the chalk and embark on a top 10 list of countries for expat climbers!
1. Spain: Scrims of Sun, Siestas
Why Spain?
If you want a mix of climbing styles, a relaxed lifestyle, and culture, Spain is the top place (vote) on your list. Spain is home to everything from the limestone cliffs of Siurana to the bouldering paradise in Albarracín.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Siurana (Catalonia)
• El Chorro (Andalusia)
• Rodellar (Aragon)
• Albarracín (Teruel)
Currently Offering Work Opportunities: Spain has also been trying to draw digital nomads and remote workers. Only recently, a “digital nomad visa” was introduced, which permits you to live and work in the country for a maximum of 5 years.
Cost of Living: You can generally enjoy a cheaper lifestyle in Spain than in many Western European countries (outside the main cities). In general, you will probably be able to afford a comfortable life in a climbing-suitable area (typically costing around 1000€-1500€ per month).
2. Tropical Climbing Paradise in Thailand
Thailand is not the first country you think of when it comes to climbing, but for the expat climbers on this list, it has quickly become a favorite. With its strikingly beautiful limestone cliffs, moderate winter temperatures, and startlingly low cost of living, Thailand offers a potent mix of adventure and opportunity.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Tonsai and Railay (Krabi)
• Crazy Horse Buttress (Chiang Mai)
• Koh Yao Noi (Phang Nga Bay)
Employment: Thailand has many thousands of expatriates working mostly in the tourism industry or (more commonly) as English teachers, a growing type of employment that includes remote work. This country seeks to promote itself as a country for digital nomads.
However, Thailand’s offerings go way beyond the cost of living. Many climbing destinations will allow you to live comfortably on mere dollars per month, depending on your pace of life.
3. Vast Wilderness and World-Class Crags (Canada)
Why Canada?
Canada: I’m extremely biased, obviously, but Canada is one of the best places in the world for unrivaled rock and ice climbing variety! Canada is far from wilderness, but the people are friendly and welcoming, and with a nice high standard of living, Canada is ideal for expat climbers who don’t mind a bit of cold weather.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Squamish (British Columbia)
• Canmore and Banff (Alberta)
• Val-David (Quebec)
• Lion’s Head (Ontario)
– Work Opportunities — Canada has a strong economy and is famous for its immigrant-friendly policies. The country provides a range of working visas, i.e., the Working Holiday Visa for selected countries worldwide.
Cost of Living: Canada is not the cheapest place on our list, but it has a much lower cost of living than the US (particularly when you throw reduced healthcare costs into the mix). Approximate per-month costs: CAD 2,000-3,000$. Most climbing spots in NA are expensive.
4. New Zealand: Climbing Down Under
For many, New Zealand is the ultimate adventure destination, and mountaineers are no exception. It is a great destination for expats, boasting a diverse landscape with activities ranging from bouldering to alpine climbing and being one of the most liveable cities in the world.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Castle Hill (Canterbury)
• Whanganui Bay (Lake Taupo)
• Paynes Ford (Golden Bay)
• Mount Cook National Park
Work: This country offers at least 23 months of work, depending on your passion. Through various working holiday visas, New Zealand provides young people from many different countries the opportunity to live and work in another country as well.
New Zealand Cost of Living: New Zealand is not the cheapest country to live in, but if you look at it this way. NZ provides one of the best quality lifestyles/services at a low cost. You should budget at least NZD 2,500-3,500 per month (less for smaller towns & rural areas)
5. Fontainebleau through The French Alps: France
Why France?
With its iconic boulders in Fontainebleau and the towering peaks of the French Alps, France provides ample opportunities for all climbers. Combine this with the country’s rich culture, amazing food, and high standard of living, and you have a prime expat-climbing destination.
Climbing Hotspots:
• ile-De-France: Fontainebleau
• Chamonix (French Alps)
• Céüse (Hautes-Alpes)
• Verdon Gorge (Provence)
Work: The French Tech Visa has brought the best tech talent and entrepreneurs to France. Another alternative for expatriates is to teach English.
Cost of living: France can also get pricey, especially in Paris and other major cities. Smaller towns near climbing areas, however, can be significantly more affordable. Expect to budget an average of €1,500-€2,500 per month by city.
6. Japan: Tradition and Modern Climbing
Japan- Traditional culture and modernity are side by side in a mountain playground. From the cobbles of Mizugaki to the limestone spires of Ogawayama, you can be sure that Japan has something you want.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Mizugaki (Yamanashi)
• Ogawayama (Nagano)
• Gunma Prefecture – Mount Tanigawa
• Yakushima Island
Job Prospects: English TeacherThis is probably the most popular job for an expat in Japan; based on your qualifications, it seems like a pretty easy option to try. The country also has a Working Holiday Visa for young people from specific countries.
Skimpier Side: Japan is costly, especially Tokyo. However, many of the smaller cities and rural areas located near climbing opportunities are far less expensive. Expect to spend ¥200,000-¥300,000/month.
7. South Africa: A Land of Diverse Climbing in Beautiful Surroundings
Why South Africa?
Rocklands — Sandstone boulders up to 100m high offer unlimited problems and climbing in a beautiful setting, while Waterval Boven attracts climbers worldwide for classic cragging experiences. It offers a good combination of climbing and culture, plus the country’s diversity, which certainly makes it an exciting destination for expat climbers.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Rocklands (Western Cape)
• Waterval Boven (Mpumalanga)
• Montagu (Western Cape)
• Table Mountain (Cape Town)
Employment: South Africa has a growing tech scene centered mostly around Cape Town. You could also look for work as an English tutor or in tourism. Nonetheless, work visas can be tricky to get, so numerous expats select the path of remote work or digital nomads.
Cost of Living: South Africa is fairly cheap for an expat from a Western country. But depending on your lifestyle and where you live, plan to spend anywhere from 15,000-25,000 ZAR per month or more.
8. Short link: Climbing in Greece (climbers’ paradise)
Greece is a country with awesome climbing, a rich historical milieu, and wonderful Mediterranean scenery. The range of climbing in Greece is vast, from the tall columns of Meteora to the sea-cliff crags on Kalymnos.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Kalymnos
• Meteora
• Leonidio (Peloponnese)
• Kyparissi
This has offered Work Opportunities: Greece has endeavored to allure advanced migrants and far-off specialists with activities like the
Lower cost of Living: It is much cheaper than in many Western European countries. Expect to budget €1,000-€1,500/month (depending on location and lifestyle)
9. Australia: The Outback Dawn Coastal Crags
Why Australia?
The country has an incredibly varied selection of climbing, from sandstone cliffs in the Blue Mountains to granite bouldering in the Grampians. At the heart of it all, with such a nice quality of life and so much stunning landscape to go around, not too many climbers will need an incentive to make their way there.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Agorist Redoubt: Blue Mountains (New South Wales)
• Grampians National Park (VIC)
• Arapiles (Victoria)
• Frog Buttress (Queensland)
When you come to Australia, you can apply for the Working Holiday Visa for young citizens of many countries. Australia also has a skilled migration program for those with in-demand jobs.
Cost of Living: Australia is generally expensive, especially in larger cities. Depending on your location or lifestyle, budget up to AUD 2,500-3,500 a month
10. Climbing Paradise Swiss Alps
Switzerland — 10 facts Switzerland is every climber’s dream with its stunning alpine landscapes, great infrastructure, and quality of life. Switzerland has a diverse climbing scene to suit any taste, from sport climbing in the Jura to high-alpine mountaineering in the Alps.
Climbing Hotspots:
• Gimmelwald (Berner Oberland)
• Magic Wood (Graubünden)
• Gastlosen (Fribourg Alps)
• Zermatt (Valais)
Job Prospects: With a booming economy, Switzerland boasts opportunities in the finance, tech, and pharmaceutical industries, among others. However, work permits can be hard to obtain for citizens outside of the EU.
Cost of living: Switzerland is well renowned for having a high cost of living, which considers all aspects, from rent to groceries. Plan on spending between 3,000 and 4,000 CHF/month (more is likely in big cities like Zurich)
Conclusion
Being an expat climber can also provide an adventurous lifestyle, cultural exploration, and the chance to climb different kinds of rock in new environments. Spain’s sunlit crags, Thailand’s turquoise coasts, and Switzerland’s soaring Alps each offer the ideal destination for aspiring climbers prepared to take a country leap.
Remember, going abroad is a long process. Besides the climbing quality, there are many other factors you need to consider, such as visa requirements, health care access, and local climbing ethics. Fortunately, the dream job of being a flashy expat climber is within reach if you prepare for it and keep an open mind.
So, are you ready to get the chalk out and set off on your adventure climbing worldwide? I’m just waiting for the world and those sweet, sweet rocks!
FAQs
1. Q: Any advice for someone looking to find climbing partners in a new Country? How do you meet other climbers in the area?
2. Q: Please explain the considerations of taking my climbing gear abroad. Are there any conditions or limitations on climbing gear? Check airline rules for climbing gear, what gear is available in the country you visit, and whether local restrictions on climbing equipment apply.
3. Q: How do I keep myself safe while climbing abroad? Learn local climbing ethics and guidelines; educate yourself on the specific risks of each area; never climb alone, and hiring a local guide for your first few outings is advisable.
4. Q: Is there an internationally recognized climbing certification that enables me to act as a climbing instructor overseas? Some certifications, like those from the IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations), are international, and you may be able to find work as a climbing instructor or guide.
5. Q: How can I reduce my footprint as an expat climber? Leave No Trace, work with local conservation groups, public transport, or carpool to the crag when possible, and respect any wildlife/vegetation regulations and closures of local areas.
