Dive into the Blue: Building a Career by the Sea

Starting off with some reflections

This weeks blog will have a little bit of an existential questioning vibe for all my fellow meaning seeking young professionals. As I write this, I find myself still ensnared in the smoky embrace of London. The bustling streets and perpetual fog have taken their toll on my health, leaving me longing for the rejuvenating embrace of coastal serenity.

With each passing day, the allure of coastal living grows stronger, beckoning me to seek refuge by the sea. As I embark on this quest for respite, I am open to recommendations and suggestions on where to turn. Whether it be the sun-kissed shores of California, the pristine beaches of Australia, or the tranquil coastlines of Southeast Asia, I am eager to explore all possibilities.

If this sounds like it resonates with you, wherever you may be, let's explore the different ocean aligned avenues we can take.

Where to Live for Career and Coastline: A Strategic Convergence

Finding the perfect balance between a thriving career and the tranquil allure of coastal living requires strategic consideration of where to set down roots. While many coastal cities offer stunning vistas and recreational opportunities, some stand out as prime destinations for ambitious professionals seeking both professional advancement and a deep connection to the sea. Below are some possible avenues to explore:

1. San Francisco, California:

Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco is a global tech hub renowned for its innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. From Silicon Valley giants to burgeoning startups, the city's vibrant tech scene offers boundless opportunities for career growth.

2. Sydney, Australia:

With its world-famous beaches, Sydney epitomises the ideal fusion of career opportunities and coastal lifestyle. As Australia's largest city, Sydney boasts a diverse economy spanning finance, technology, tourism, and more. After hours, unwind by surfing at Bondi Beach or strolling along the scenic coastal trails, embracing the quintessential Australian way of life. Negatives include being far far away from the EU.

3. Singapore:

As a global financial hub and bustling port city, Singapore offers unparalleled career prospects amidst its urban waterfront landscape. Home to multinational corporations, financial institutions, and thriving industries, Singapore attracts ambitious professionals from around the world.

4. Oslo, Norway:

For those with a penchant for sustainable development and maritime innovation, Oslo stands out as a beacon of opportunity. Situated on the scenic shores of the Oslofjord, Norway's capital city is a hub for renewable energy, marine research, and shipping industries. With a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and quality of life, Oslo offers a unique blend of career advancement and natural beauty.

The intersection of career and coastline presents invaluable possibilities for professionals seeking to strike a harmonious balance between ambition and relaxation. Being personally drawn to places such as tech meccas, the vibrant shores of Australia, the cosmopolitan charm of Singapore, or the sustainable ethos of Norway, the opportunities are various. the only thing stopping us is starting the journey with purpose and passion, knowing that the sea is not just a backdrop but a source of inspiration and opportunity for the life we seek to build.

Proximity to the EU

Living by the coast may seem conflicting to many of us as the best beaches seem to be the furthest away from us Europeans. However, below we explore the pros to staying close to home if this is a fortified consideration.

Access to the European Job Market: Living in a coastal city near the European Union provides direct access to one of the world's largest and most diverse job markets. EU member states offer a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing. Whether you're seeking a career in multinational corporations, startups, or government agencies, being close to the EU increases your chances of finding a job that aligns with your skills and interests.

Ease of Mobility and Work Opportunities: Proximity to the EU facilitates mobility and opens doors to work opportunities beyond national borders. As an EU resident or citizen, you may benefit from simplified visa regulations, freedom of movement, and the ability to work in multiple EU countries without additional work permits. This flexibility allows you to explore career prospects in different cities or countries within the EU, expanding your professional horizons and enriching your experience in the global job market.

Networking and Collaboration: Living near the EU enables you to network and collaborate with professionals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. EU cities host numerous networking events, industry conferences, and business forums where you can connect with like-minded individuals, potential employers, and business partners. Building a strong professional network within the EU can lead to valuable career opportunities, knowledge exchange, and collaborative projects that enhance your skills and expertise.

Concluding remarks

The exploration of different coastal cities may spark an interest and that much needed motivation to make a move closer to the sea. This is a daunting step which I can relate to very personally. It seems to be always mañana's duty. However, a good way to slay the fears are firing out some job applications / reaching out to employers in cities which you find of interest. As my wise teacher in school once told me: the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.

Next week's topic will be focussing on emerging Ocean Technologies which spark my interest. Hope to see you then! reach out with any recommendations:)