Lived in picturesque Suffolk village in 300 year old listed thatched cottage. Friends couldn't understand why this wasn't perfect and we wanted to move to Italy - they are not familiar with Italy and the Italians! I worked in finance and my husband had his own business (architectural salvage/reclamation). After years of long hours and no time to enjoy our "wonderful life", we had pretty much made the decision to leave England when a sudden death in the family made us more determined. Life is to short!
We have left behind the suits and boots and manicures. Although I still get to sit behind a desk for a few hours a day my husband is turning his hand to all sorts; building/decorating/gardening/pool maintenance- whatever is needed. I still work in finance thanks to technology, but I am not licensed as an adviser out here (English qualifications, age/experience not seen as a positive here). Like many others we earn much less but feel much richer.
