Ever dreamed of leaving the hustle and bustle of a big city for a quieter, more laid-back life? That’s exactly what Austin Mullins and Jack Richards did when they traded New York for Uruguay in early 2023. The couple, now permanent residents of the South American country, say they’ve found a “special place” that feels like home. So, what made them pack up their lives and move to one of the smallest countries in South America? It all started during the pandemic. While binge-watching the British show *Escape to the Chateau*, they became fascinated with the idea of renovating an old property. But Europe felt too far, and rural living didn’t appeal. Enter Uruguay—a country they say ticks all the boxes: LGBTQ-friendly laws, political stability, and a vibrant culture. “We love it here,” says Austin. “It’s a slower pace of life, but it’s exactly what we needed.” The couple, who got married just before leaving the U.S., initially planned to stay for a few months. But after realizing the tax benefits of living abroad, they decided to make it permanent. Life in Uruguay hasn’t been without its challenges. The couple struggled to find a bank willing to give them a mortgage, putting their renovation dreams on hold. They’ve also found it tough to make local friends, as Montevideo’s culture tends to be insular. “Most of our friends are other expats,” Jack admits. “Uruguayans are kind, but it’s hard to break into their social circles.” Language has been another hurdle. While both are learning Spanish, they’re far from fluent. “It’s a barrier to feeling fully integrated,” says Austin. Still, they’ve embraced the slower lifestyle, enjoying fresh produce, beautiful parks, and a more relaxed pace. “We eat fresh fruit and veggies all day, year-round,” Austin adds. “That’s something we didn’t have in New York.” Despite the challenges, the couple says Uruguay has been a blessing. They’ve found a healthier, more affordable lifestyle and a welcoming community. While they haven’t ruled out returning to the U.S. someday, for now, they’re happy building their new life in Uruguay. “We’re working towards our chateau dream,” Jack says with a laugh. “But for now, we’re just enjoying the journey.” ---