They didn't wait for tomorrow–5 best working abroad stories
Laura
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4 minutes reading time
They say the best things in life happen when you step out of your comfort zone, and there’s no better example of that than the stories of those who’ve dared to work abroad. From sunny beaches to big cities, these dreamers turned their “someday” into “today” and embraced the adventure of a lifetime. In this blog, we’re sharing five of the best stories from people who took the leap, packed their bags, and said “yes” to life abroad. Let their journeys inspire you to take the next step toward your own adventure. After all, working abroad is more than just a job! 😉
1. Hannah found the love of her life
At the end of 2018, I lost my temporary job, leaving me discouraged and endlessly job hunting. Then I stumbled upon a Yobbers ad for a job in Ireland. I had never been to Ireland, but curiosity led me to apply—and my life hasn’t been the same since!
Within days, I had an interview with Yobbers, and less than a month later, I arrived in Athlone with two suitcases and a one-way ticket. My new employer covered my travel and accommodation and I felt right at home.
“Saying “yes” to a job abroad didn’t just change my career—it changed my life!”
The friendly Irish atmosphere helped me settle in, and a colleague soon became much more than that—we fell in love, moved in together, and even adopted a cat named Saoirse. In 2021, he proposed during a trip to Dingle, and we recently celebrated our wedding! 💍
2. Leslie got lost in Porto, but saved by locals
Working in Porto taught me an unforgettable lesson in relying on locals. One evening, I planned to meet up with my friends after dinner. They sent me a pin for the club, but when I arrived, I couldn’t find them. My phone battery was running low, and in an unfamiliar city, I started to feel anxious.
I messaged a friend, but they insisted they were “in the back of the club.” Finally, I asked a staff member for help, showing him the GPS location just as my phone died. 🪫 Smiling, he said, “This happens a lot. Your friends are probably at the club behind this one—we share a wall.”
Following his directions, I found my friends in the neighboring club and returned home safely. This experience taught me the value of asking locals for help—they’re often your best guide in a new city!
3. Jasmin can’t ever say goodbye to the Dutch snacks
Working abroad isn’t just about where you live—it’s about how you grow. Moving from Germany to the Netherlands was a bigger culture shock than I expected! The Dutch laid-back attitude was a big contrast to Germany’s obsession with punctuality. While I’m still adapting to hagelslag (chocolate sprinkles on bread), I’ve fallen hard for oliebollen—those fried dough balls are my Friday lunchtime tradition during winter, best enjoyed with a walk along Leeuwarden’s cozy canals.
Living here has been a lesson in embracing simplicity and gezelligheid (that warm, cozy vibe). 🌧️ I bike in the rain without a second thought, stress less, and although I still arrive on time, I’ve let go of my habit of being 10 minutes early. This charm, the canals, and slower pace have taught me to enjoy life’s little moments.
“This small city didn’t just change where I live—it changed how I live, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!”
4. Amelie’s housemates became lifelong friendships
During my seven months living in Mexico, I lived in a lively shared house with 15 people, complete with a pool, a basketball court, and the occasional visit from tarantulas and scorpions! 🕷️🦂 Weekends became adventures as we explored different parts of Mexico together after work. From vibrant cities to serene beaches, every trip was a new chapter in our friendship.
Even after us all returning to Europe, the bond we built has stayed strong. We’ve reunited in Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Valencia, reliving those unforgettable moments and creating new ones, traveling the world to see each other.
Mexico gave me more than memories—it gave me friendships that cross borders and time zones. It’s a reminder that living abroad isn’t just about where you go—it’s about the connections you make along the way!
5. Dennis ‘temporary gap year’ turned into 10 years and counting
Growing up in Heidelberg, Germany, I loved family vacations to sunny resorts in Mallorca, Turkey, and Egypt. I always hated the return to cloudy Germany and promised myself: one day, I’ll live where others vacation.
That dream became reality when I landed a job in Lisbon as a Sales and Service Agent. I’d never visited Portugal before but embraced the adventure. With my company arranging accommodation and my English getting me through daily life, the transition was smoother than expected. I even took up surfing and fell in love with Portugal’s laid-back vibe.
Over the years, I climbed the career ladder—first as a Team Lead, then as a Recruiter, and eventually as a Recruitment Partnership Manager. After 10 years in Lisbon, I moved to Valencia, Spain, for a new chapter. Living abroad taught me resilience, patience, and adaptability. My advice? Be confident, embrace the unknown, and don’t give up too quickly. Life abroad is worth it!
A year from now, you’ll wish you’d started today
The stories you’ve just read are proof that working abroad isn’t just a dream—it’s a life-changing opportunity waiting for you to seize it. Now it’s your turn! Imagine where you could be a year from now—new friends, new culture, new memories. Don’t let fear or hesitation hold you back. Why would you wait? The best time to begin is right now. Apply for a job abroad through Yobbers and let us help you turn your dreams into reality. Your story is waiting to be written—take the first step today! 🔥