Irish in the EU: ‘The Italians enjoy life and savour what it has to offer’

As Ireland prepares to assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union, a growing number of Irish expatriates are sharing insights into the qualities of life they’ve come to cherish in their adopted countries. These personal accounts highlight a stark contrast between the fast-paced, often financially strained existence in Dublin and the more relaxed, affordable lifestyles available elsewhere in the EU. From Croatia to Sweden, these stories reflect a broader sentiment among Irish citizens living abroad—many of whom believe that the way of life in other European nations offers valuable lessons for their homeland.

The narratives shared span a wide range of experiences, each emphasizing the importance of quality of life and affordability. Cheryl Devine, who operates a restaurant in a small Croatian village, describes the cultural practice of “fjaka,” which translates to a moment of stillness and contentment. This concept, she explains, is deeply embedded in the community, where residents regularly gather for informal chats over coffee, reinforcing social bonds and a sense of belonging. Similarly, Clare Dempsey, who relocated to central Portugal in her fifties, finds comfort in the laid-back pace of life there. She mentions that delays in completing tasks are not seen as setbacks, and that even routine interactions, such as those with supermarket staff, carry a warmth and familiarity that is less common in Ireland.

In Italy, Orfhlaith Ní Chorcora expresses admiration for the Italian attitude toward life, noting how locals seem to embrace the present with enthusiasm and appreciation. This perspective aligns with the broader theme of enjoying life’s simple pleasures, a value that seems to resonate strongly with many Irish expats. Meanwhile, Selena Murphy in Malta highlights the financial relief afforded by the country’s nearly free childcare system, contrasting it sharply with the exorbitant costs associated with child-rearing in Ireland.

Affordability remains a consistent concern for many Irish individuals living outside the Republic. Mark Keogh, currently residing in Poland, appreciates the low cost of living but laments that he is unable to afford purchasing a home despite being close to achieving that goal. Brian McCabe, based in Estonia, observes that younger generations there have greater opportunities to establish themselves and purchase property, offering a glimpse into a future that feels increasingly distant for many in Ireland.

The appeal of certain European locations extends beyond economic factors. James Reidy, living in Rotterdam, notes that buying his own apartment—a dream unattainable in Ireland—is a testament to the accessibility of homeownership in some EU countries. In Denmark, Seán Walsh reports that his monthly rent for an apartment is roughly equivalent to €600, a figure that would be considered modest even in Ireland. Mark Whale, who purchased a home in Sweden at the age of 34, praises the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its emphasis on outdoor activities, including the well-known “right to roam” policy that allows public access to natural areas.

The connection between urban environments and nature is a recurring motif in the accounts. Kerry O’Hare, living in Latvia, points out the abundance of trees and green spaces in Riga’s city center, while Deirdre Kevin in Slovenia appreciates the diverse landscapes—from towering mountains to serene lakes—that shape daily life. Both emphasize the ease with which people in these regions cultivate their own food and maintain a deep connection to the land, a practice that stands in contrast to the more industrialized approach to agriculture in Ireland.

For many, these experiences serve as both inspiration and a call to action. As they plan their upcoming holiday visits to neighboring European countries, some hope to bring back not just souvenirs, but new ways of thinking about how to balance work and leisure, how to prioritize community, and how to live more simply and sustainably. These reflections underscore a growing awareness among Irish expatriates that the values and practices they encounter abroad might hold important lessons for their home country during a period of significant political and social change.