Many joked about fleeing the United States if Donald Trump became president. Now the time has come to escape Trump's haircut and horrible attitude toward women, immigrants, Muslims and just about everyone else. We'd be running to escape an objectively terrible leader.
Have Your Voice Heard: Become an Odyssey Creator
On December 8th, 2015, the White House issued a statement declaring Trump disqualified himself from the presidency when he made anti-Muslim remarks in opposition of the values upheld by the Constitution. On January 23rd, Trump said he could shoot someone and not lose any of his current supporters. If that wasn't enough, Trump's recent rejection to participate in the republican debate on Fox because Megyn Kelly - an outspoken republican woman - is the moderator shows just how terrible he would be at representing our country in uncomfortable and foreign spaces.
This list will provide you with great options to begin the immigration process. Some of these places just rock, but some of them are Trump antitheses, too.
1. Britain
Although Britain did not ban Donald Trump from entering the country as they had discussed in a recent parliament meeting, they used that time to bash him thoroughly. Not a single member of parliament had anything nice to say about him. They didn't ban him because they didn't want to play into his hands, instead using the opportunity to show that they are not as hateful as he is.
Britain is a solid choice. If you already speak English, you won't have any trouble understanding people in Britain. Moreover, citizens and individuals on long term stay can access free healthcare. If you're weary of gun violence, there are very strict laws surrounding the ownership of weapons and relatively low crime rates. Be prepared for the high cost of living!
2. Denmark
Denmark is an awesome choice because it's considered the happiest country in the world. Though this was judged on many factors, Denmark boasts strong governmental support for parents with children. Childcare is low cost or free, maternity leave and paternity leave are long, and women can easily return to work at their same level of employment. Health care and gender equality are top priorities. Biking is the norm and community is strong. Be prepared to get cozy, as Denmark gets very dark and very cold during the winter.
3. Japan
I really like Japan, so I'm biased. The appeal of this choice is all related to the fun. Japan is home to separate islands filled with almost tame deer, rabbits and cats. There is also a fox sanctuary where you can feed and play with mostly tame foxes. The shopping and food is worth the trip, but if you're a fan of fresh sushi, it may be worth living their full time. The allure of geekery and majestic sightseeing should be plenty to remedy your Trump woes. Keep in mind that becoming a permanent resident is tough, and becoming a citizen is even harder. You have to be very committed if you want to make it to Japan.
4. Canada
Another solid choice is Canada. Canada offers North American beauty with the most diverse congress in the world. Students perform really well. Recreational opportunities are boundless. Health care is publicly funded and usually easy to access. The UN consistently rates Canada as the best country to live in the world. It's also fairly easy to become a permanent resident. Canada accepts a quarter of a million new permanent residents each year. Language will be no barrier. French is a plus. Make sure you line up a job.
5. Sweden
Sweden is an excellent option. Guaranteed 5 weeks of paid vacation. High parental leave. Free daycare, free healthcare. Great summers. Sweden is considered the best country in the world for women. If you're a fan of the snow and aren't afraid of paying high taxes to get incredible benefits, Sweden may be the Trump remedy you're looking for.
6. Germany
If you're a student (or even if you're not) Germany is the place to be. Germany offers free college education to everybody. Youth unemployment is the lowest in the world. If you have a need for speed, some highways have no limits. Sundays are sacred. You will not work and you can't shop. Plenty of time for rest. Employment protection is high and weekly hours are low. Hobbies are serious business and public transit is very advanced. If you're a fan of German food and don't mind legal public nudity and speaking German, this is your paradise away from the United States.
7. Belize
Belize is a great place to live. Your money will go far with basic services and housing and doesn't need to be converted to a different currency. The country is a former British colony, so speaking a language other than English is not necessary. Education is in English and well regarded, so your kids will do well, too. Organic food and unpolluted air abound, making it a healthy place to be outside. Many people in Belize have relatives in North America - so they're likely to understand your pain in your escape from Trump.
8. Australia
Australia is a solid choice for those seeking fresh air, low population density, and incredible wildlife and sightseeing. The weather is mild all year round and the sunshine is plenty. Education opportunities abound and
unemployment is very low, hovering at about 5%. The healthcare system is very efficient, and you can choose a private plan if you prefer. If you want to call this country home, you'll need to weigh which is scarier: Trump or the large number of deadly animals that call Australia home, such as the Box Jellyfish, Taipan, and Funnel Web Spider.
9.South Korea
South Korea, like Japan, is a fun metropolitan choice. Public transportation is cheap. Nature can be accessed in the city and Korean comfort food is easy to find. The internet is super fast and WI-FI is often free to access. It's affordable, safe, and not actually at a high risk of being attacked by North Korea. Service and speed are priorities. If you live in a big, fast city and want to continue to do so without the horrors of Trump, South Korea may be the place for you.
Remember to keep immigration laws in mind and budget properly for your future travels and new homes, folks.
This article was edited on 1/09/2017 to be consistent with new information.
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