A woman who traded dreary skies for sunny deserts shares her newfound joy after relocating from the UK to start a fresh life in Doha. Andreea Daly, previously based in Berkshire, now resides in an apartment in the Qatari capital, where she is enjoying substantial savings compared to her previous living expenses.
In the UK, Andreea spent approximately £1,300 per month solely on rent, not including additional bills, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. In contrast, the same amount in Doha covers a fully inclusive hotel-style apartment, allowing her to allocate her extra funds towards leisure activities like beach clubs, travel, and exciting adventures.
Expressing her satisfaction with the move, Andreea emphasized how in the UK, she felt trapped in a cycle of working to cover expenses without much room for socializing or enjoyment. Despite a comfortable life, she lacked the time and financial flexibility for dining out, hobbies, or social activities.
Andreea, the founder of a money-saving startup for small businesses called Money Squirrel, had been working remotely for years but had not fully embraced the lifestyle until now. Following a change in her personal life and with no ties anchoring her to the UK, she made the bold decision to start anew in Doha earlier this year, drawn to the vibrant expat community and the appealing lifestyle the city offered.
Originally from Romania and raised in the UK, Andreea never felt completely at home in either country. Her visit to Doha for a tech conference in May 2025 sparked her decision to relocate permanently, captivated by the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunities for exploration and cultural experiences that the city provided.
In Doha, Andreea now revels in a dynamic social life, frequenting beach clubs, embarking on desert excursions in a 4×4 for sunrise drives, and reigniting her passion for scuba diving. The year-round sunshine and outdoor-friendly environment have rejuvenated her spirit, enabling her to fully embrace her love for being near the sea and engaging in water activities.
Comparing her current lifestyle to her past routine in the UK, Andreea notes a stark contrast between a work-centric existence and her newfound balance of social engagements, spontaneous outings, and enriching experiences. She values the freedom to allocate her funds towards diverse activities and experiences, such as social gatherings, desert trips, and beach club visits, which were previously out of reach.
Andreea’s residency status in Doha is still in progress, but she is content living on a tourist visa for now, making occasional border crossings every couple of months. While uncertain about her long-term plans, she expresses no hurry to return to the UK, citing her overwhelming contentment with her current lifestyle and the sense of adventure and balance she has finally achieved.