We are a couple in our early forties who own our own business and home in California. We have realized that rather than living to work we want to work to live, living life to it's fullest. Much of the expat info out there is geared toward professional career moves, which is not the motivation for us. We don't have children and shy from big cities. Because we spend almost all of our time working, we desire a less complicated, friendly lifestyle, almost semi-retirement (depending on economics.) Here are some points from our wish list: A friendship orientated rural community/village, American friendly, fresh and healthful food supply, moderate climate, could be countryside or semi-tropical, safe, no major political conflicts, "affordable", not too distant from coast. Currently, we are considering England, Scotland, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, France and Mexico. Obviously, we are in the first stages of our quest, but would like the advice of those who have "been there.