If you want an overseas property from which you can access all the best in a nation’s culture, shopping and nightlife, head for the city. But which city is the nicest to live in?
A holiday home or even a new life overseas doesn’t have to revolve around sun, sea and sand. Many overseas buyers opt for their favourite foreign city, where they can immerse themselves in the accessible culture, shopping, restaurants, nightlife and other attractions. Cities are easy to reach for a weekend trip, tend to hold their price and have great rental potential.
Each year The Economist magazine ranks the world’s great cities by “liveability”, with each judged across 30 factors including safety, healthcare, education, infrastructure and the environment. Here are two that The Economist judged among the world’s top cities, plus a couple that we think are worth a look too.
Character Barcelona flat
Barcelona
One of the few major European cities to boast a sweeping sandy beach, the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region offers so much more beside the sea. It’s a real cultural hub, one of the world’s trendiest cities with stunning architectural landmarks by Antoni Gaudi, such as the Sagrada Familia, dotted throughout the city. Barcelona’s love of sport goes beyond passionate; the shopping and restaurants are first class and the nightlife is exhausting! If you have the energy for it, Barcelona delivers.
This fully-refurbished city-centre apartment is just metres from two Barcelona landmarks, namely the famous La Rambla boulevard and Boqueria market. With one-bedroom, it contains original features, including a traditional vaulted ceiling and restored floors, as well as a balcony. For more details, click the image.
Modern Melbourne apartment
Melbourne
Melbourne was judged the world’s best city for the seventh year running. It scores for its cool, cultural edge, both of the art gallery and café culture varieties, plus its trendy nightlife. Melbourne has the coastal location that many people crave, but its dynamism is proof that there’s more to Australia than beaches and barbecues. Not forgetting that much of life in the city revolves around sport, so much so that Melbourne has been dubbed sporting capital of the world.
Located in Travancore, on the fringe of the Central Business District, this affordable two-bedroom apartment offers 25th floor views to enjoy from the comfort of the open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area. On the ground floor is the gym and sauna.
