In a viral TikTok video, Renee Smith, a 43-year-old British expat who permanently relocated from England to Lefkada, Greece with her family last November, opened up about the reasons behind her life-changing decision.
Renee emphasized that their move wasn’t financially motivated, clarifying that they are by no means wealthy. Instead, it was entirely about quality of life. She shared how her daughter gets to play in the sun every day, how easily they can access both the mountains and the beach, and how much they enjoy shopping for fresh produce at local open-air markets. Ultimately, she noted, the warmth of the locals and the island’s vibrant summer atmosphere have brought immense joy in their daily lives.
According to Renee, these everyday pleasures “don’t cost a thing.” She did admit, however, that Greece’s lower rental prices, prior to moving into their own permanent home on the island, provided significant financial relief, allowing them to live comfortably without needing a lavish lifestyle.
“The quality of life in Greece is simply better, and it’s honestly so sad when Greeks assume that the only way to enjoy their country is if you have British money,” she said. “You guys are living in paradise. You truly live in paradise. I would choose Lefkada a thousand times over anywhere else.”
Reports from a few days ago revealed that the couple, who previously paid roughly €3,500 (about $4,060) a month for rent and utilities in the UK, now live in a two-bedroom apartment for just €500 ($580) a month—a figure that remarkably covers their utility bills as well.
Watch her video below:
@renaesmithmc Despite the perception, we’re not rich. But we make the money we do have work for us by not wasting it on shopping or ‘things’. We spend barely anything to allow us to experience more of the world.
