Have you ever fantasised about casting aside all your worries and starting afresh on the other side of the globe?
Lauren Elizabeth and her husband, Chris, turned that dream into reality earlier this year and they’ve been thriving ever since. Travel guru Lauren (@laurenelizabeth_athome) shared their adventure on TikTok, revealing to her 55,000 followers how they made it happen.
“Seven months ago we left the UK and moved abroad to The Philippines,” she said in a recent video. She then detailed how they sold their home, cars, and most possessions, and left their full-time jobs to make the big leap. In footage showing their journey to Southeast Asia, Lauren reflected: “At 25-years old we followed society’s norms. We got ourselves careers and bought our first house and we were progressing within our jobs – financially we did well and we had a very good life in England.”
But the couple reassessed the quality time they spent together and started planning their escape. “Chris was working 70 to 80 hours per week and he normally only had two days off a month as he was in a commission-based job,” Lauren said while packing up their remaining belongings.
“We realised we were at a point that we were not ready to settle down and have children and questioned why we were sacrificing our time in our 20s when there is a whole world to explore.” Surprisingly, despite already owning a home and having impressive careers, they felt they would have a better “quality of life” elsewhere.
The pair took the plunge by catching a one-way flight to The Philippines, settling into an Airbnb as a temporary base for the initial month. “That was as far as our plan went,” Lauren admitted.
Seven months on, the couple is now happily housed in a new apartment boasting stunning views over Bonifacio Global City. “We have signed a lease for the next 12 months,” Lauren concluded, revealing their aspirations to relocate once more come October the following year.
One of Lauren’s followers, inspired by their story, commented: “Life is short, just enjoy,” to which she wholeheartedly agreed, citing her background in nursing as a life lesson: “Absolutely! I learnt that the hard way in nursing! It really does put life into perspective.” Another enthusiast applauded their bold move: “Best decision guys, wish you best of luck in your new life.”
Echoing this sentiment, a third added: “Well done and congrats! Best thing anyone can do tbh is leave and live your bestest life.” Whilst a fourth supporter further encouraged them, saying: “Life is short. If this is what you want so you have no regrets, the best of luck to you. Look forward to sharing your adventures.”