Australia and New Zealand are very appealing to Americans because of the similarities in lifestyle, language and currency - and for a lot more reasons, politics aside. There’s a plethora of MIAs (migration agents) and unique services like BMI (Business Migration Investments & Tours) that are headed by ex-pat Americans eager to help you make the “sea change.” And there are organisations like AAA (Australian-American Association) and Necomers Network to tell you where to go to network with fellow ex-pats.

AAA has been my salvation, living in three different states since moving here. There are chapters in every major city, whose ranks are swelling with others moving here in droves. The chapter in Melbourne is the largest and most active, with more than 400 members who get together monthly for social and business meetings and educational seminars and networking events.

AAA stands for “fostering friendship and understanding between the people of AUS and USA.” (Don’t you love the way the initials are the same?). In fact, you can join the American-Australian Association in your state if you are contemplating changing countries. It’s the best way to get insider information and business contacts before you make your move. I was glad I did. In Denver, I met many Australians living and working businesses around Colorado who shared contacts and war stories about immigration visas. They were supportive and I made it through the touch business migration process in 2003.