Why I’ve Chosen to Stay in Serbia: A Personal Perspective on Life Abroad

As someone who worked in the trades for over 20 years, I’ve experienced some of the harshest weather conditions, especially in Canada. From the bone-chilling cold of Alberta, where temperatures can drop to -50°C, to the damp, frigid winters of Ontario, the Canadian weather is brutal. Here in Serbia, winters are much milder, with temperatures rarely dropping below -10°C, making the weather much more bearable and enjoyable. The shorter winter season means longer growing periods for fruits and vegetables, which is a bonus for someone like me who’s interested in starting a garden.

Another reason I’ll never return to Canada is the food. Here in Serbia, the focus on fresh, seasonal, and locally grown produce makes a huge difference. Unlike Canada, where genetically modified foods are more common, Serbia mandates the labeling of any GMOs, and I’ve found that the food here is far more nutritious. Since moving here, my family and I have felt healthier, losing weight without even trying, and we don’t feel the sluggishness we did back in Canada due to the abundance of chemicals and additives in processed food. Plus, Serbian dishes are incredibly flavorful, and the quality of the ingredients makes a noticeable difference in every meal.

In Canada, the work culture is demanding, with an ever-present pressure to work beyond regular hours. In contrast, Serbia offers a far more balanced lifestyle. Family time, friendships, and personal life are held in high regard here, and work often takes a backseat. In Serbia, it’s easy to take time off for family celebrations or personal needs without the bureaucratic red tape or guilt that you’d experience in Canada.

When it comes to the cost of living, Serbia is significantly cheaper than Canada. Rent, utilities, healthcare, and dining out are all more affordable here, making it easier to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. For example, a three-course meal with drinks for two people at a nice restaurant in Serbia can cost as little as $100 Canadian, something that would be unthinkable in Canada. The overall cost of living in Serbia is much more manageable, especially considering the affordable private healthcare system, which offers quality services at a fraction of the price you'd pay in Canada or the US.

Serbia's tax system is another big plus. While both Canada and Serbia have a 15% income tax rate, the big difference is that Serbia offers a flat tax rate, meaning that higher earners aren’t penalized with steep tax increases like in Canada, where you can pay up to 30-40% in taxes, depending on your income. For businesses, Serbia has a competitive 15% corporate tax rate, which makes running a business here far more attractive. In fact, Serbia’s relaxed business environment, lower taxes, and fewer bureaucratic hurdles make it easier to start and grow a business here than in Canada.

While Canada boasts a public healthcare system, the reality is that waiting times can be long, and the service isn’t always up to the standards you'd expect. In Serbia, while the public system isn’t perfect, private healthcare is affordable and of high quality. I’ve personally used private clinics here for medical needs, and I’ve been impressed with the efficiency and the low cost. A full hospital stay with excellent care, including a private room, costs only a fraction of what it would in Canada.

One of the most striking differences I’ve noticed between Serbia and Canada is the sense of community. The people here are deeply connected to their families and friends, and there’s a strong focus on socializing, both during the day and at night. Whether it's sitting around the kaunas with family or enjoying the nightlife with friends, the social life in Serbia is vibrant and fulfilling. In Canada, I often felt disconnected, but here in Serbia, family and community come first, and it's been a refreshing change.

In Serbia, the emphasis on national sovereignty and personal freedom is something I deeply appreciate. The political environment here allows for a greater degree of freedom of expression and participation, unlike Canada, where I’ve witnessed restrictions on free speech and political freedoms. Serbia's national identity and its conservative values align more with my personal beliefs, and I find the approach to issues like immigration and national policies to be more aligned with my views.

While Canada will always be my birthplace and hold a special place in my heart, the lifestyle in Serbia has brought me a new sense of fulfillment. The weather, food, work-life balance, lower cost of living, affordable healthcare, and the strong sense of community make Serbia feel like home. I’m not saying I’ll never visit Canada again, but for now, Serbia is where I plan to stay.

If you’re considering relocating to Serbia and want to learn more about living, working, and setting up a life here, check out our Serbia relocation guide and explore the many relocation services Serbia has to offer. From Serbia relocation consultants to Serbia business relocation assistance, we’ve got you covered to make your move smooth and successful.

We help client with flights, car rentals, stays and experiences by booking everything the Ardor Travels.