Beyond the rainbow: a South African's reality check on life abroad

IOL News

27-06-2025

Leaving South Africa for better opportunities may seem appealing to some, but expats suggest proceeding with caution.
Image: Unsplash
'There's no place like home.'
These words resonate strongly with numerous South Africans who have left the comforts of their homeland in search of a better life abroad, only to find themselves returning.
Sean G, an entrepreneur and former expat, recently reignited this conversation on TikTok, arguing that the idealised life abroad is not as perfect as many imagine.
In his candid video, he questions the narrative that life outside South Africa is undoubtedly better.
'Who are these fools telling South Africans that life is better overseas?' he probes, drawing attention to the often over-inflated tales expats share about their lives abroad.
'I have lived there. I have been overseas. I've travelled extensively. For anyone who believes it is so much better overseas, you are completely wrong,' he declared.
G's anecdotes, particularly from his time in California, paint a stark picture of the realities many expats face.
He recalls paying close to $12 (R214) for a raw chicken, emphasising the sky-high cost of living that surprises many who try to replicate their South African lifestyle in foreign lands.
'It is tough out there, guys,' he warned, highlighting that the financial burden can be astronomical.
While acknowledging the hard work ethic of South Africans, he emphasised how many expats often sacrifice space and comfort for a life in countries fraught with challenges, such as Australia, known for its wildlife, and the UK, infamous for its dreary weather.
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'There's no yellow brick road. You need to understand that wherever you go, you will have to graft and do things you would never consider in South Africa,' he added.
Having returned to South Africa 18 months ago, he expressed contentment with his decision: 'I am tired of hearing people say they need to live overseas for a better life. Some foolish propaganda is misinforming you; life is tough out there."
"South Africa is full of opportunities if you know where to look,' he asserted, indicating that a wealth of possibilities remains on home soil.
However, his sentiments have divided netizens, with many supporting his views while others remain unconvinced.
For instance, @tsholo_konopi expressed frustration, stating, 'South Africa is terrible, and no one can convince me otherwise. I still plan to leave this country.'
In contrast, @butchvis87 shared their excitement about returning to South Africa from abroad: 'There is no country like RSA. Our country must be one of the most beautiful lands in the world.'
Other voices echoed varying experiences.
@alida.fields.2.0 recounted her struggle to find work after returning home from Japan, expressing a desire to return to the opportunity-rich environment she had found in Japan.
Meanwhile, @trevor25124, a British national married to a South African, shared their positive experience since moving to South Africa, highlighting the affordability of life in the country compared to what they encountered abroad.
Data from the United Nations in 2024 reveals that around 915,000 South Africans live abroad, with substantial populations in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.
The UK alone is home to an estimated 247 000 South Africans, while Australia houses around 200 000.
These figures reflect the widespread allure of life overseas, yet G's insights remind us that the decision to leave home should be weighed carefully against the realities that await.