I spent 30 months living in different countries. Coming back, I can't believe how expensive the US is.
A private equity investor shares his experience of traveling to 30 countries over 30 months while working remotely. He highlights the stark contrast between the high cost of living in New York City and the more affordable, higher quality of life found abroad.
Why it matters
It reflects the growing trend of digital nomadism and the economic pressures driving professionals to seek alternative living arrangements outside the U.S.
Bakari Akil left New York City and visited a new country each month. Instead of finishing his trip, it's still ongoing. Courtesy of Bakari Akil Bakari Akil, a New York private equity investor, explores 30 countries with Remote Year's program. Akil manages travel expenses by using platforms like Airbnb and spends $2,000 a month on housing. After his tour, Akil found international living offered a better quality of life than in the U.S. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Bakari Akil, 37, a private equity investor from New York. Akil grew up with no international travel experience and, three years ago, set out to visit 30 different countries each month. He finished his list, but is still traveling around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
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