American Expat Finds New Life in Budapest Amid Challenges
- Denae McGaha, originally from the U.S., made the move to Budapest, Hungary in 2017 to work as an English teacher.
- She shares that her apartment costs $560, which reflects the affordable living conditions in the city.
- This highlights the growing trend of Americans relocating abroad for teaching opportunities and affordable living.
In a poignant reflection on her journey, McGaha recalls the last Christmas gift from her father—a travel guidebook to Europe—which ignited her dreams of exploring the world. With a one-way ticket costing $800, she embarked on a new life in Budapest, where her teaching contract provided a furnished apartment and a monthly stipend. While the language barrier was minimal due to the prevalence of English among locals, McGaha embraced the challenge of learning Hungarian, enhancing her integration into the community. Despite the excitement of her new adventure, McGaha faces the emotional toll of being separated from family and friends back in the United States. She describes her experience in Budapest as navigating a "coconut culture," which presents its own unique set of challenges. To document her journey, she started a blog, sharing insights and experiences as an American expat in the vibrant city. After losing her teaching position, McGaha has had to adapt to a changing visa landscape, applying for various permits to remain in Hungary. Last year, she earned approximately $37,731 from her marketing job and freelance work, which she found sufficient to cover her expenses while allowing for travel and social outings. However, she acknowledges a recent overspend, attributing it to credit card debt and a more indulgent lifestyle, prompting her to reassess her financial habits moving forward. Looking ahead, McGaha remains open to new opportunities, hoping to maintain her quality of life while navigating the complexities of expat living.