They Went Abroad to Save Money. Moving Back Seems Unaffordable

20+ year US expat in Asia here, I'm just shocked when I hear stories about $50 fast food prices.

Needless to say I'm happy with my choices, although I do see a future where the value of my skills approach zero because of AI.

I'm confident I can adapt to that future.

The reverse is also true. It's not uncommon to hear of former eastern-block immigrants returning to their country of origin. The cost and quality of living is at last much better back home.

It was pretty much always like that in Europe since late 80's. At least for those that could land a similar job for some kind of foreigners. For locals, it was rarely like that.

A good reason to learn more languages. Then go somewhere with affordable cost of living and work remotely. Sounds like a plan. Why would anyone want to move back?

Okay but how do you rent "cheap" housing during these travels? Prices on Booking are uniform everywhere from Australia, through Thailand, to Europe. Airbnb has some weird accommodations in a trailer or an old boat. Long term rentals require local employment, deposits, insurances, and generally you'll be scammed thoroughly by an agent.

How come a person living abroad is an expat only if they are white and an immigrant if they are not? I would expect better from the NYT... How about "undocumented Mexican expats" for a change?