Introduction
Moving abroad with kids can be both exciting and daunting. Many internationally mobile families are searching for that perfect place where they can enjoy a rich family life without sacrificing modern comforts. Four destinations often highlighted as the best countries to raise a family abroad are Thailand, Bali (Indonesia), Georgia, and Turkey. Each offers a unique blend of welcoming culture, good schools, quality healthcare, and comfortable housing for expats. All four are known as relatively safe countries for expat families, too, so you can feel confident in your children’s well-being.
This guide compares these countries in terms of family lifestyle, education, healthcare, safety, and real estate (including any visa or investment benefits for property buyers). By understanding what Thailand, Bali, Georgia, and Turkey each bring to the table, you can decide which overseas haven aligns best with your family’s needs and dreams.
Family Lifestyle and Safety in Thailand
Thailand is often called the “Land of Smiles,” and that warmth extends especially to children. Expat families find daily life here both exotic and convenient. You might spend weekends with your kids touring golden temples or splashing in the turquoise sea off a tropical island. In bustling Bangkok, modern malls with play zones and parks offer family-friendly outings alongside vibrant street markets. Thai culture is very family-oriented – locals adore children and will often dote on your little ones, making you feel truly welcome. Safety is another plus: Thailand has a low crime rate, and expat neighborhoods in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket tend to have gated communities and 24/7 security. In short, Thailand provides an engaging Asian adventure with the comfort of knowing it’s a safe and supportive environment for raising kids.
Education in Thailand
One of Thailand’s biggest draws for expat parents is its excellent schooling options. There are numerous international schools in Thailand following British, American, IB and other curricula, especially in Bangkok which is a regional education hub. Top-tier schools in the capital and other cities (Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, etc.) offer high-quality education in English with extensive extracurriculars from sports to robotics. Class sizes are often small and facilities modern. These schools aren’t cheap, but they ensure your child can continue a world-class education seamlessly while living abroad. Younger children can also attend affordable local preschools or bilingual schools, but most expats stick with the well-established international institutions to maintain consistency with Western academic standards.
Healthcare in Thailand
Thailand boasts world-class healthcare that gives expat families peace of mind. Bangkok’s private hospitals (such as Bumrungrad International or Samitivej) are internationally accredited and often compared to 5-star hotels for their service and comfort. Across major cities and tourist hubs, you’ll find modern hospitals and clinics with English-speaking, Western-trained doctors. Everything from routine pediatric check-ups to emergency surgeries can be handled locally, usually at a fraction of the cost you might pay in the West. Vaccinations, dental care, and specialist services are easy to arrange, and many expats also take advantage of Thailand’s wellness culture (think affordable massages and holistic therapies). Knowing that high-quality medical care is readily available is a huge relief for parents considering a move to Thailand.
Real Estate and Visa Options in Thailand
When it comes to housing, family-friendly real estate in Thailand spans from modern condos in city centers to spacious houses in the suburbs. Foreigners can own condominiums outright (Thai law allows non-citizens to own up to 49% of units in a condo building), making condo living in Bangkok and other cities very popular for expats. These often come with great amenities like pools, play areas, and gyms – perfect for families. If you prefer a house with a yard, it’s possible via long-term leases or other arrangements, since foreigners cannot directly own land. The cost of property is moderate: a luxury apartment in Bangkok costs much less than a comparable one in New York or London, and smaller cities like Chiang Mai offer even more affordable home prices.
Thailand also makes it fairly easy to stay long-term. While buying property itself won’t grant citizenship, the country offers investor-friendly visas. For example, the Thailand Elite Visa program provides 5 to 20 years of residency rights in exchange for a fee (popular among expat homeowners who want a hassle-free long stay). There’s also a new Long-Term Residence (LTR) visa aimed at wealthy retirees and investors, and other visa pathways for those with Thai family or employment. In short, investing in a home in Thailand can go hand-in-hand with securing a comfortable long-term visa, allowing your family to settle in with stability.
Family Lifestyle and Safety in Bali
Bali’s tropical charm and laid-back vibe have made it a favorite for expat families seeking a more relaxed pace of life. Here, your day might start with a family scooter ride through lush rice paddies, and end with a sunset on the beach. Weekends are often spent outdoors – building sandcastles on a gentle beach in Sanur, hiking to jungle waterfalls near Ubud, or joining in colorful local temple festivals. There’s a strong sense of community among Bali’s expats; families quickly connect through playgroups, yoga classes, and school events, creating a supportive network. Balinese culture is very accepting of children – kids are included in ceremonies and everyday life, and locals are patient and kind with young ones. In terms of safety, Bali is generally calm and family-friendly. Violent crime is rare, and villages and expat neighborhoods tend to watch out for each other. The biggest concerns are usually traffic safety (roads can be hectic, so many families hire a driver for convenience) and occasional natural events like volcanic ash or tremors, though serious incidents are infrequent. Overall, Bali offers a family-friendly lifestyle abroad that is healthy, active, and secure – an idyllic island life where childhood can be a little more free-range.
Education in Bali
While Bali is more famous as a holiday destination than an academic center, it has developed some solid education options for expat kids. Several international schools in Bali cater to various curricula. Notably, the island is home to the renowned Green School – an innovative eco-focused institution in the jungle that has attracted global attention for its sustainability-driven education. In addition, schools like Bali Island School (which offers the IB program), Canggu Community School, and Australian Independent School Bali provide more traditional international education in a Bali setting. These schools typically feature smaller class sizes and a close-knit community, which is great for personalized learning (though they may have slightly limited course selections for older teens compared to big-city schools). Admission can be competitive and tuition is high, so planning ahead is wise. For younger children, there are also preschools and Montessori centers run by expats. In summary, Bali’s schooling options are fewer than Thailand’s, but you can still ensure your kids get a quality education – often with unique perks like field trips to coral reefs or volcanoes that make learning an adventure.
Healthcare in Bali
A common question for families considering Bali is whether the healthcare is up to par. The island has a number of private hospitals and clinics that serve the expat community, especially in the capital Denpasar and in South Bali. Facilities like BIMC Hospital and Siloam Hospital employ foreign-trained, English-speaking medical staff and can handle most routine medical needs — from treating fevers and fractures to maternity care. For serious or complex conditions, many expats plan to travel to Singapore or Australia, which are just a few hours away by flight and offer ultra-advanced care if ever needed. It’s also common for expat families in Bali to maintain international health insurance that covers emergencies or evacuation, just for extra peace of mind. Day-to-day health needs, however, are well covered: pharmacies are well-stocked, and you can find specialists like pediatricians and dentists easily in the expat hubs. An added benefit is Bali’s emphasis on wellness. Healthy living is part of the culture here, with organic food markets, yoga studios for all ages, and plenty of outdoor activity keeping families fit. Overall, for routine healthcare and a healthy lifestyle, Bali rises to the challenge for expat families, with the safety net of world-class hospitals in nearby countries if needed.
Real Estate and Visa Options in Bali
In Bali, the dream home for many expat families is a villa with a pool and garden – and that dream is quite attainable. Family-friendly real estate in Bali predominantly consists of standalone houses and villas (rather than condos), often with open-air designs that blend indoor and outdoor living. Foreigners cannot own land freehold in Indonesia, but they can legally secure property through long-term leases or via structures like a “right-of-use” title or a local company. In practice, most expat families lease villas for periods like 10, 25, or even 30 years. This provides a long tenure to treat the place as your own. Popular areas for expat families include Sanur (known for its calm beaches and community feel), Canggu (hipster vibe with family cafés and international schools nearby), and Ubud (cultural heart with green surroundings). Housing costs in Bali have been rising, but you generally get good value – a spacious three-bedroom villa with a yard and pool will cost far less than a similar property in California or Sydney. Renting is also an option; many families rent first to get a feel for neighborhoods before committing to buying or leasing long-term.
Indonesia has been improving its visa offerings to attract foreign residents. Recently, a new “second home” visa was introduced, which can grant 5 or 10-year residency permits to foreigners who invest a certain amount (such as purchasing high-value property or holding substantial funds in Indonesia). This is a big step forward, as previously most expats in Bali used renewable one-year KITAS permits (often via employment, starting a business, or retirement schemes). While Bali doesn’t offer an easy path to permanent residency or citizenship for investors, the environment is becoming more welcoming. With the new long-stay visas, a foreign family that invests in a Bali home can more easily enjoy life on the island without the hassle of frequent visa runs. Essentially, if you have the means to invest or sustain yourself, Indonesia is opening the door for your family to call Bali home for the long haul, allowing you to fully enjoy its paradise lifestyle.
Family Lifestyle and Safety in Georgia
Georgia is an emerging gem for expat families, offering old-world European charm at a fraction of the cost. Life here tends to be laid-back and family-centered. In the capital city, Tbilisi, you might spend your Sundays strolling with the kids through cobblestone old-town streets or taking a funicular ride up to Mtatsminda Park for amusement rides with a panoramic view. The culture in Georgia is extremely hospitable – locals will often treat you and your children like family. It’s not unusual for neighbors to invite you over for a supra (traditional feast) or for a waiter to offer a free treat to your child at a cafe. Including children in all aspects of social life is the norm. Georgia also has the benefit of a four-season climate. Your family can enjoy hot summers (with beach trips to the Black Sea in Batumi), beautiful autumns, and even snowy winters (ski resorts in the Caucasus Mountains are just a few hours from Tbilisi for fun family getaways). Safety is a standout advantage: Georgia consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in its region. Crime rates are very low, and it’s common to see kids playing outside or walking around the neighborhood safely. Overall, Georgia provides a culturally rich but relaxed environment, where families can slow down and enjoy quality time together in a secure setting.
Education in Georgia
Education infrastructure in Georgia isn’t as extensive as in Thailand or Turkey, but it’s improving year by year. In Tbilisi, there are a handful of international schools in Georgia that teach in English (and other languages) catering to expat and local elite families. Examples include schools following an American curriculum and those following a British or IB curriculum. These schools offer smaller class sizes and a community feel; your child might be one of just a few dozen students per grade, which can mean more personalized attention. While they may not have the sprawling campuses or endless extracurricular options of larger international schools elsewhere, they cover all the basics and often integrate Georgian culture and languages, enriching the experience. Tuition fees are generally lower than in Southeast Asia, making Georgia comparatively budget-friendly for international education. Outside of the capital, international schooling options are limited. Some expat families in regional areas choose local private schools (if planning to integrate long-term and perhaps learning Georgian or Russian), or they homeschool. In summary, if your family is based in Tbilisi or Batumi, you’ll find adequate schooling options that will keep your kids on track academically, even if the choices are fewer than in bigger expat hubs.
Healthcare in Georgia
Georgia’s healthcare system is a mix of public services and private clinics, with expats mostly using the private side for better quality. In cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, you will find modern clinics and a few hospitals with English-speaking doctors, especially for general practice and pediatrics. Routine healthcare in Georgia is very affordable – doctor visits, lab tests, and medications cost a small fraction of what they do in Western countries. For everyday health issues, you’ll be well covered in Tbilisi: you can get prescriptions filled easily at pharmacies, see a specialist quickly, or get a dental cleaning without much hassle. However, for more serious or complex medical treatments (for example, major surgeries or advanced diagnostics), many expats plan to travel to nearby countries like Turkey or within the EU. The good news is that Istanbul’s world-class hospitals are only a short flight away, and many Georgians themselves go there for specialized care, so that backup is readily available. Some expat families also invest in international health insurance that includes coverage in Georgia and medical evacuation, just for peace of mind. On the public health side, things like water quality and vaccination availability are decent. One thing to watch is air quality in Tbilisi – due to traffic and basin geography, the city can get smoggy in winter, which might bother children with asthma. Overall, for basic healthcare needs Georgia does the job, and for anything it can’t handle, better facilities are easily accessible abroad. This setup works fine for most expat families, especially considering the low cost of day-to-day care.
Real Estate and Residency in Georgia
One of Georgia’s biggest advantages is how easy and affordable it is to set up a home. Family-friendly real estate in Georgia is very affordable by global standards. In Tbilisi, foreign buyers can freely purchase apartments or houses with no special restrictions – a huge plus compared to many countries. You could find a modern 3-bedroom city apartment for perhaps $150,000 USD or less, or even a private home in the suburbs for a similar price, which is astonishingly low compared to Western Europe or North America. Many expat families choose to buy property simply because it’s a good value and gives them more space for the kids. Even renting is inexpensive, so some families rent first and then decide to invest in a property once they feel at home. Popular areas for expats in Tbilisi include Vake and Saburtalo (for their parks, cafes, and international school proximity) and the historic Old Town (for those who love character, though parking can be tight there!). Beyond Tbilisi, Batumi’s seaside condos are attracting foreign buyers, and the countryside offers opportunities like owning a vineyard farmhouse if that’s your dream. Property ownership comes with very low taxes and carrying costs, so it’s easy on the budget to maintain.
Georgia also shines when it comes to residency for foreign investors. In fact, the country has one of the most liberal visa regimes in the world – citizens of many countries (US, EU, UK, etc.) can live in Georgia for up to a year visa-free. This means you can literally just move in and not worry about paperwork immediately. If you want an official residence permit, it’s straightforward: purchasing real estate worth about $100,000 USD or more will qualify you for a renewable residence permit. With a larger investment (around $300,000), you could even obtain a permanent residence after a few years. While Georgia does not offer an instant citizenship by investment program (naturalization takes time unless you have special connections), most expat families find that the ease of getting long-term residency is enough. There’s also the benefit that Georgia doesn’t tax foreign-sourced income for its residents, which is great if you’re earning money from abroad while living there. In summary, Georgia makes it delightfully simple to establish your family’s second home: you can buy an affordable house and, as a bonus, secure the right to live in a safe, welcoming country that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Family Lifestyle and Safety in Turkey
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a vibrant mix of East and West that can enrich any family’s life. In cosmopolitan Istanbul, expat families enjoy a dynamic city lifestyle: one day you might take your kids to a modern science museum or a shopping mall playground, and the next day explore the Grand Bazaar or cruise the Bosphorus Strait, all within the same city. Turkish culture places huge importance on family and children, so wherever you go – restaurants, parks, shops – you’ll find people eager to interact with and help your kids. It’s common for waiters to entertain a fussy toddler or for local families to invite you to join their picnic. Outside Istanbul, Turkey’s coastal towns like Antalya, Izmir, and Bodrum offer a more laid-back lifestyle with a Mediterranean flair. Imagine a life where your children spend afternoons swimming in the sea, and weekends are for family road trips to ancient ruins or mountain villages. In these areas the pace is slower, but you still have modern conveniences and a strong expat presence. Safety-wise, day-to-day life in Turkey is generally secure, especially in the well-to-do districts and smaller cities where expats tend to live. Major cities are as safe as their European counterparts (normal precautions against petty crime apply, but violent crime is uncommon in typical expat areas). Turkey has had political ups and downs, but these rarely impact daily family routines. Overall, Turkey offers an exciting and culturally rich environment for families, with the comfort that communities are tight-knit and children are cherished.
Education in Turkey
Turkey has a long tradition of education and many schooling options that cater to international families. In Istanbul and Ankara especially, you’ll find a wide selection of international schools in Turkey covering British, American, French, German, and IB curricula. Schools such as Istanbul International Community School or the British International School Istanbul boast excellent facilities – science labs, sports fields, arts programs – and often a mix of expat and local students. Many Turkish private schools in big cities also offer bilingual programs (Turkish-English, or other languages) and follow an internationally recognized curriculum, even if they aren’t branded as “international school,” so expat families have plenty to choose from. Class sizes in the elite schools are moderate and the quality of teaching is high, with many teachers from the US, UK, or Europe. Outside the biggest cities, options thin out but still exist: for example, Izmir and Antalya each have a couple of international or bilingual schools suited to expats. For younger kids, big cities offer everything from Montessori preschools to playgroups, often with English-speaking staff. Keep in mind, top international schools in Turkey can have tuition on par with Europe or North America, so budget accordingly. The payoff, however, is that your children can get a world-class education and often become bilingual (picking up Turkish, and perhaps a bit of a third language) in the process. By the time they leave Turkey, they’ll be well-prepared for universities worldwide and culturally enriched by the diverse education experience.
Healthcare in Turkey
Turkey is known globally as a medical tourism destination, which is great news for those living there because it means the healthcare is excellent. In cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, you’ll find numerous JCI-accredited hospitals – these are facilities that meet the same standards as top hospitals in the US or Europe. Many doctors in Turkey are Western-trained, and English is commonly spoken in private hospitals, so communication is not a big issue for expats. Whether you need a pediatrician for regular check-ups, an emergency clinic for a midnight fever, or a specialist for something more serious, you’ll have access to quality care. Private hospitals such as Acıbadem or Medical Park in Istanbul offer cutting-edge treatments, and even public hospitals have good doctors (though the experience in public facilities may involve longer waits and language barriers). Healthcare costs are lower than in Western countries; with insurance, you’ll pay very little out of pocket for routine visits, and even without insurance, many procedures are quite affordable by international standards. Pharmacies are plentiful and many medicines that might require a prescription elsewhere can be obtained directly from the pharmacist in Turkey. For expat families, another reassuring aspect is that Turkey’s cities have high standards of sanitation and vaccination, so there aren’t unusual diseases to worry about – it’s very much a modern healthcare environment. If someone in your family has special medical needs, it’s likely you’ll find the right specialist in Turkey. From prenatal care (lots of excellent OB/GYNs and maternity hospitals) to dentistry (many expats take advantage of reasonably priced dental care), Turkey’s healthcare system will cover your family’s needs comfortably. Knowing this, you can feel confident that moving to Turkey won’t mean compromising on your family’s health or well-being.
Real Estate and Investment in Turkey
Turkey’s real estate market is diverse, and it remains attractively priced compared to many Western countries, especially given the current exchange rates. In Istanbul, you can find everything from modern high-rise apartments with Bosphorus views to historic apartments in charming old neighborhoods, or large suburban houses within gated compounds. Many expat families in Istanbul opt for newer developments on the city’s outskirts or in upscale districts – these often come with family-friendly real estate features like 24/7 security, playgrounds, pools, and even on-site shops or schools. Outside of Istanbul, opportunities abound: along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts (places like Antalya, Fethiye, Bodrum), there are numerous villas and small apartment complexes targeted at foreign buyers and second-home seekers. A seaside villa with a garden in Turkey can cost a fraction of what you’d pay for something similar in the south of France or California. Foreigners generally have the right to buy freehold property in Turkey with minimal restrictions (only a few nationalities and military zones face limitations), and the purchasing process is well-established and safe when you use reputable agencies. Many expats are pleasantly surprised by the value for money – for instance, with the budget that might only get a cramped flat in London, you could afford a spacious apartment or even a house in Turkey.
What truly sets Turkey apart in terms of investment benefits is its official citizenship by investment program. If you invest at least $400,000 USD in Turkish real estate, you become eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship for you and your immediate family. This program has been a game-changer for globally mobile families, because a Turkish passport provides visa-free travel to many countries and the right to live and work in Turkey indefinitely. In about 6–12 months from your property purchase, you could be holding a Turkish passport. Even if citizenship isn’t a goal, buying any property in Turkey (above a relatively low threshold, around $50,000 in most areas) can qualify you for a renewable residency permit. In practice, this means if you buy a home, you can stay year-round and renew your family’s residence permits easily, enjoying life in Turkey as long as you like. Beyond these residency perks, investing in Turkish real estate can be financially savvy. The cost of living in Turkey is lower due to the weakened lira, so maintaining a property and enjoying a high standard of life (dining out, utilities, hiring domestic help if you wish) is quite affordable for those earning in stronger currencies. Property values in good locations have historically appreciated, and there’s potential rental income if you choose to rent out your property when you’re not using it (particularly in tourist areas or central Istanbul). In summary, Turkey offers perhaps the most comprehensive package for expat families: a welcoming culture and lifestyle, quality education and healthcare, and tangible incentives like easy residency and even a new nationality if you invest. It’s easy to see why Turkey stands out as a top contender for those looking to raise a family abroad while also making a smart property investment.
Conclusion
Each of these four countries shines in its own way for globally mobile families. Thailand offers an easy-going Southeast Asian lifestyle with superb amenities and a warm, child-loving culture – ideal if you want tropical living with all the conveniences. Bali provides a laid-back island paradise infused with culture and nature, perfect for families who prioritize a relaxed pace and outdoor adventure in an international community. Georgia appeals with its affordable family-friendly lifestyle, European vibes and sincere hospitality – a great choice if budget and safety are top of mind and you’re excited by a lesser-known destination. Turkey delivers a dynamic blend of East and West, with modern infrastructure and rich history, and stands out for giving practical benefits (from top-notch schools to the option of citizenship) – it’s a strong pick for families seeking a balance of lifestyle and long-term advantages.
In the end, the best country to raise a family abroad will depend on your unique priorities and vision for the future. Do you imagine your kids speaking multiple languages and experiencing diverse cultures? All four of these destinations will offer that, each in a different flavor. Whether you see your children exploring Thai markets, surfing Bali’s waves, walking Georgian castle walls, or straddling continents in Turkey, moving overseas can open up a world of opportunity for them. What’s consistent across Thailand, Bali, Georgia, and Turkey is the emphasis on family and the genuine welcome extended to foreigners with children. By investing in a home and a life in any of these countries, you’re not just purchasing family-friendly real estate – you’re investing in your family’s quality of life and future memories. Here’s to finding the perfect place for your family’s next great adventure abroad, and to years of happiness and growth in your new home away from home.
