For native English speakers, choosing to travel to or settle in a country where English is widely spoken can make the experience smoother and more accessible. English is the most widely spoken second language in the world and serves as an official or national language in over 50 countries across all continents. This global reach allows English speakers to connect with new cultures, navigate everyday tasks, and communicate with ease in diverse regions.
Our team at Remitly is spotlighting three destinations where English is spoken more widely than you might expect: Belize, Malta, and Singapore. These locations offer unique experiences while still providing the comfort and accessibility of English, making them appealing destinations for travelers, digital nomads, and those considering relocation.
What makes a country “English-speaking”?
When we think of English-speaking nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia often come to mind. In these countries, English is the native language for the majority of the population. However, the definition of an English-speaking country is much broader and more nuanced.
Countries where English plays a key role generally fall into three categories:
- Native English-speaking nations: English is the dominant first language for most people. New Zealand and Ireland are two more examples here.
- Official language countries: English is one of the official languages, meaning it is used in government, legal systems, and education, even if not widely spoken at home. India, South Africa, and Pakistan fall into this category.
- Widely spoken English countries: English isn’t official, but is still commonly spoken due to historical, economic, or educational factors. It may be used in tourism, business, or higher education. The Philippines and Malaysia are examples of this.
What unites all of these countries is that English plays a functional role in daily life, making them accessible and appealing to English-speaking travelers and expats.
English is a global language
English serves as a lingua franca, a bridge language that allows people of different native tongues to communicate.
It’s the dominant language of international business, diplomacy, science, and travel. For English speakers looking to explore life abroad, English proficiency in a destination can reduce language barriers, making it easier to integrate into communities, navigate healthcare systems, and access better opportunities in the destination country.
Surprising English-speaking destinations
Belize: a hidden English-speaking gem
Nestled in Central America, Belize is the only country in the region where English is the official language, stemming from its history as a former British colony. English is used in government, media, and education, but most daily conversations happen in Belizean Kriol. Locals also speak Spanish, Garifuna, and indigenous languages, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity.
For travelers, Belize offers a blend of Caribbean charm and Central American adventure. From the stunning Great Blue Hole to ancient Mayan ruins, the country provides diverse experiences. The widespread use of English simplifies travel logistics, making it easier to explore the country’s natural and cultural wonders.
In addition to tourism, Belize has become an increasingly popular destination for expats and retirees seeking an affordable, English-speaking location with tropical weather. The Belize Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) is an option if you are over 45 years old, offering perks like tax exemptions on income earned abroad. Coastal towns like Placencia and islands like Ambergris Caye are especially popular with expats, offering a relaxed pace of life, community-oriented living, and beautiful surroundings.
Malta: a scenic English-speaking island
Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a small island nation with two official languages: Maltese and English. This bilingual environment is a legacy of British colonial rule, which lasted until 1964.Malta’s use of English in education, government, and daily life makes it an accessible destination for English-speaking visitors. The island boasts picturesque beaches, historic sites, and a vibrant cultural scene, all easily navigable thanks to the prevalence of English.
Malta also attracts expats and remote workers due to its strategic location between Europe and North Africa, its mild climate, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to other EU countries. The country offers a Nomad Residence Permit for non-EU citizens who work remotely, making it an appealing option for digital nomads. With high-speed internet, plenty of coworking spaces, and an English-speaking population, Malta combines business ease with lifestyle perks.
Singapore: a blend of languages, with English widely spoken
Singapore is a multicultural city-state in Southeast Asia where English serves as one of the four official languages, alongside Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Despite this linguistic diversity, English is the primary language of instruction in schools and is widely used in business and government.
The widespread use of English in Singapore facilitates communication and integration for English-speaking travelers and expats. The country’s efficient infrastructure, safety, and diverse cultural offerings make it an attractive destination for professionals, families, and students looking for an English-friendly base in Asia.
Singapore also offers a dynamic economy, consistently ranking as one of the world’s most business-friendly countries. English-speaking professionals working in finance, tech, biotech, and education often find ample job opportunities, as well as high standards of living. Families relocating to Singapore will find international schools that follow US, British, and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, ensuring continuity in your children’s education.
Why English proficiency matters for relocation and travel
Ease of communication in a new country
Language is often one of the biggest hurdles when traveling, whether taking a short-term vacation or planning a permanent move. Speaking the local language, or finding people who speak yours, can drastically impact your experience.
Daily tasks like visiting a doctor, finding housing, or opening a bank account are far more manageable, and being able to communicate eliminates stress and confusion.
Countries like Malta, Belize, and Singapore provide this kind of comfort, making them attractive options for those who don’t speak the local language but still want to experience a new culture.
Integration into local communities for expats
Language not only affects practicalities but also emotional well-being. Being able to connect with people in your community, share stories, and feel understood can make or break your integration process.
In countries where English is commonly spoken, expats may find it easier to make friends, participate in community activities, and feel a sense of belonging. In Sicily, I joined a local language exchange group where Italians practiced English while helping me improve my Italian. In many countries with high English proficiency, similar communities exist and can ease that often-lonely first year of living abroad.
Factors to consider when choosing a destination
While language is a major factor, choosing an English-speaking destination also depends on other considerations—like visas, cost of living, or job options. Here are a few practical elements to help you make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of other key elements to keep in mind as you make your travel plans:
Visa requirements
Why it matters: Visa rules impact your ability to stay, work, and access services legally. Some countries are highly welcoming to expats and offer multiple visa options. Others may have strict regulations or short stay limits.
Factors to consider:
- Do you need a visa to enter or stay long-term?
- What types of visas are available?
- How long does the visa process take, and how much does it cost?
- Can you switch visa types later (e.g., tourist to work visa)?
Cost of living
Why it matters: Affordability impacts your quality of life and how long you can sustain yourself in a new place. It influences everything from rent and groceries to healthcare and entertainment. You can use an online tool like Numbeo or explore expat forums to compare living costs between cities.
Factors to consider:
- What’s the average rent in your preferred area?
- Are healthcare and insurance costs reasonable?
- How much do everyday items cost—such as food, transportation, and utilities?
- Will your income or savings stretch further there, or will you need to make adjustments?
Job opportunities
Why it matters: Unless you’re retiring or living off savings, finding a job or having a visa that allows remote work is essential. Some countries have robust job markets for English speakers, while others may restrict certain roles to local citizens or require language fluency.
Factors to consider:
- Is there demand for your skillset or profession?
- Are there job boards or local companies hiring English speakers?
- Will you need to have your degrees or certifications officially recognized?
- What are typical salaries and employment benefits like?
Quality of life
Why it matters: A great job or low cost of living won’t mean much if the country doesn’t meet your lifestyle needs. For me, the slower pace of life in Sicily was a huge adjustment at first, but over time I’ve grown to appreciate the emphasis on spending time outdoors, walking, and enjoying long meals.
Factors to consider:
- Is public transportation reliable?
- How accessible is quality healthcare?
- Is the environment safe and clean?
- Does the lifestyle match your pace– fast, slow, or balanced?
Cultural fit
Why it matters: Culture shapes your daily experiences. Choosing a destination where the culture aligns with your personality, values, or openness to diversity can make a huge difference in how well you integrate.
Factors to consider:
- Are locals welcoming to foreigners?
- Will you feel safe and included as part of a minority, as a woman, or as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?
- Are there social norms or customs that may feel different from your own?
Before you commit to relocating, spend time in online communities like Reddit or Facebook expat groups. Ask questions and read stories. You might even consider a short-term visit if you can. Even a few weeks in a place can give you a much better sense of the cultural vibe.
How language influences the choice of travel destinations
Language can shape your entire travel experience. Destinations where English is widely spoken offer deeper cultural interactions and fewer daily frustrations.
While we usually associate English with countries like the US or the UK, destinations like Belize, Malta, and Singapore remind us that English is truly global. Each offers its own culture and lifestyle, while still allowing English speakers to feel comfortable and connected.
Ready to explore?
If you’re thinking about traveling or moving abroad, don’t overlook the places where English is widely spoken, even if it’s not the first country that comes to mind. From my own experience in Sicily, discovering a hidden pocket of English speakers made all the difference. These destinations offer the opportunity to grow, connect, and thrive without starting from scratch linguistically.
FAQs
Which countries struggle with English?
Countries with lower English proficiency often include those where English is not part of the education system or daily life. According to the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), countries like Yemen, Libya, and Tajikistan rank lower in English proficiency.
Which country ranks number one in English proficiency?
The Netherlands consistently ranks at the top of the EF EPI, indicating a very high level of English proficiency among its population.
Which non-native English-speaking countries speak the most English?
Countries like the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Croatia have high levels of English proficiency despite English not being their native language. Singapore, where English is one of the official languages, currently ranks 3rd due to its emphasis on English in education and government.