Hi.
husband, myself and 3 kids (10, 8, 6) are thinking of relocating to 'central' Europe country. Kids are home educated, eldest is autistic but loves adventure!
I'm originally from there and lived in UK for 24 years. We have EU passports.
We have been mulling over the move for a year or two and we need to make decision soon. I'm now a full time SAHM/home educator/carer, hubby works but will be retiring on healthy pension in 8 months.
Option 1.. stay as we are, comfortable but with a bad weather. DH family consists of his mum, who is 85. We see her maybe monthly and brother (and family) we see maybe 3 times a year. They live fairly close to us but I find that english don't tend to meet that much 🤷♀️. Mortgage paid off, DH would keep working 2 days a week to balance the income and keep him sane.
Option 2.. move
Better weather, better family connection (sister/ best friend/few other friends all have kids similar age and I would see them all at least weekly, plus people 'drop in).
Better off financially (would be quite rich).
Downside - language for kids and husband, but we have done several holidays and they are fast learners. Possibly downside/upside - slower pace of life. Plus Cubs are difficult to come back to as no spaces 🙈. Kids would go to local school, except possibly oldest one due to his SEN.
I guess what's holding us back is the fear of making mistake. Unfortunately not many rental properties at all, so would need to buy house.On the other hand I subscribe to 'you only live once' school of thought.
Moved to UK at 18 with £30, was earning six figures by 27, then had kids, learned all about autism etc. I feel ready for another adventure.
I guess my main driver is a different family culture, sunny weather, although not scorching like Spain, better quality of life and more family time.
My husband is likely autistic so he can't see 'wood for the trees' and wants me to make a decision. Kids loved their time there and want to go (child 1 very strongly wants to move out of this 'island')
Any words of advice?
Thank you!