A man who left the UK to live in an East African island nation has revealed why he is glad he took the step.
Kris Lutchmayah, who was “born and raised” in Birmingham, says expats in Mauritius benefit from “cheaper property and costs of living” as well as more “opportunities and adventures”.
The tropical climate also wins over Britain’s “gloomy skies”, as does the feeling of security.
Speaking about his emigration, the businessman told MailOnline Travel: ‘The cost of living in Mauritius is generally much lower than in the UK, especially in housing, utilities and groceries, which has allowed me to enjoy a lifestyle comfortable.
‘Property here is also quite affordable compared to Britain. It’s true that some imported products are more expensive, but the overall savings more than makes up for it.’
Kris Lutchmayah, above, who was “born and raised” in Birmingham, says expats benefit from “cheaper property and costs of living” when living in Mauritius, East Africa.
Kris says there are more “opportunities and adventures” in Mauritius. Above: the island’s Le Morne Brabant mountain
Meanwhile, the weather is “glorious.”
Kris, property manager, digital marketer, actor and model, continued: ‘Mauritius enjoys a glorious tropical climate with warm, sunny weather all year round.
‘And let me tell you, after enduring the UK’s unpredictable cold, rain and gloomy skies for years, this constant warm sunshine is an absolute dream!
“This makes it very easy to make the most of the incredible outdoor activities and natural beauty this island has to offer every day.”
The 40-year-old decided to move permanently to the islands a decade ago after falling in love with Mauritius during family visits as a child.
He posts about his island lifestyle (and expat experience) on Instagram under the username. @just.krisxwhere he has more than 10,000 followers.
When he had the opportunity to open his own business in the country he decided to ‘take the leap’.
Kris says it’s “easy to make the most of the incredible outdoor activities and natural beauty” of Mauritius. Above, the island’s Flic en Flac beach.
LEFT: Kris says that “the biggest ‘dangers’ are probably the temptation to overindulge in delicious local foods and drinks.” RIGHT: The 40-year-old decided to move permanently to Mauritius a decade ago after falling in love with it during family visits when he was a child.
Kris explained: ‘As someone born and raised in Birmingham in a family with Mauritian roots, I have always felt a deep connection to the island nation of Mauritius.
‘The vibrant culture, warm people and stunning natural landscapes captured my heart.
“The opportunity to reconnect with my cultural roots while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams made Mauritius the perfect new home for me.”
While the island nation has many benefits, Kris says the move wasn’t always easy.
He explained: “The transition certainly brought with it challenges: adapting to new customs, learning local languages and finding my place in Mauritian society.”
Fortunately, he says the “warmth and hospitality of the local Mauritian community” made him “feel welcome” instantly.
Kris said she loved the “vibrant culture, warm people and stunning natural landscapes” of Mauritius, where she has lived for 10 years.
Kris is pictured on the left by the ocean on the coast of Mauritius. After spending a decade in Mauritius, she said she does not plan to return to the UK any time soon.
While the expat notes that some “petty crimes” occur in Mauritius, he noted that the island is overall “an extremely safe place to live without major dangers.”
Kris noted: “Overall, Mauritius is an extremely safe place to live.
‘Of course, as anywhere else, it is advisable to take basic precautions to avoid minor crimes such as theft. But there are no major hazards or safety concerns that would make me feel unsafe calling this island home.
‘The biggest “danger” is probably the temptation to overindulge in delicious local food and drink!’
Having spent years in East Africa, Kris said he has no plans to return to the UK any time soon.
He said: “While I miss my loved ones in Birmingham, the opportunities and adventures that Mauritius has blessed me with make the distance worth it.”
‘I remain open to whatever the future holds and where life’s journey may take me.
“Returning to the UK is not out of the question, but for now Mauritius is where I need to be.
“This island has truly become my home.”
Kris can be found on TikTok here: www.tiktok.com/@justkrisx.