There are an estimated four to seven million Americans living abroad. If we were all counted as a state, we’d be the 17th most populous, according to The Association of Americans Resident Overseas.
Yet we’re largely ignored by companies and the media. People just don’t realize we’re out here, or don’t consider our needs worth addressing. So TurboTax, for example, doesn’t allow us to file electronically if we’ve used a non-US address.
This site was created to provide American Expats with a source of news, tips, and information. And perhaps also a place to express our joys and frustrations. Living out of your home country can be an amazing adventure and a lot of fun. But the rewards come with a price and sometimes we need to vent.
I moved to Beijing, China in September 2008 and have learned a lot while living here, usually the hard way (which is often the only way). If you would like to learn more about me, there’s an interview of me on Expat Alley, a blog I highly recommend.
I hope this site helps you on your journey.