A family from the Midlands has traded Britain's "miserable" weather for year-round Egyptian sunshine, purchasing a stunning two-bedroom apartment with sea views and a pool for just £54,000.
A Life-Changing Decision for Sunshine and Savings
Business coach Shelley Quijada, 35, her husband Luis, 39, and their 14-year-old daughter made the permanent move to Sharm El Sheikh in October 2025. Originally from Derby, the family was motivated by the promise of a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace of life.
"We always knew we wanted to move abroad," Shelley explained. "My husband's from South America, and I've always preferred the sun. After a few holidays to Egypt, we fell in love with its peaceful feel."
Financial Freedom in a New Home
The family's financial transformation is stark. In the UK, their combined monthly income of £2,600 was stretched thin by £550 in rent and £917 in household bills. Now, they live rent-free.
They secured their two-bedroom, sea-facing flat with access to a rooftop pool and gym for £54,000. After a £27,000 deposit, they pay £1,125 per month for two years before owning it outright. Additionally, they bought a studio flat for £24,000 in cash, which they plan to rent out.
Their monthly savings are substantial:
- £887 saved on household bills
- £260 saved on weekly groceries
"Our food shop is now £65 cheaper per week," Shelley said. "It's all fresh produce from the market. The potatoes have literally just been harvested."
Embracing a New Lifestyle
The shift has meant a complete change in daily life. In Britain, the family was "never out past 6pm," often watching Netflix. Now, they spend afternoons by the sea and evenings browsing shops and juice bars until 10pm.
"All we did in England was go to Primark or the cinema," Shelley noted. "Now we can go quad biking, boat trips, and snorkelling in the Red Sea twice a month." Dining out is also far more affordable, with their most expensive meal for three costing just £17, compared to regular £100-plus bills in the UK.
While there have been cultural adjustments, such as navigating market prices and road safety, Shelley says it's "all a fun experience." Their daughter is currently home-schooled but may join a local British school next year.
With Shelley's remote work and their side business organising tours via social media, the family is settled. "I can't see myself moving anywhere else now," Shelley stated. "Egypt has everything you could want—the heat, the cheaper prices, the more relaxed way of life. Our lives have changed for the better."
