🌎 #cottrellsabroad

We’re a family of 5 who spend our summers living and working abroad.

Some people think we’re crazy

And who knows—they might be a little bit right. But given our family’s mission is to live and love freely, we’ve found the experience to be one of liberation, learning, and increased love for God, one another, and the amazing people we’ve encountered across the world.

Also, we think it’s a best case scenario. We’re planted in Phoenix 9 months out of every year, giving us the opportunity to spend most of the calendar with our extended family, friends, and community. We love our people back home, and we’re grateful to be with them for most of the year.

Still, to escape the 100-plus-degree heat during summer for new locations is a welcome privilege and true treat. While it’s not exactly a vacation, it sure can feel like one at times.

If you’re interested in how we arrived at this decision to live and work abroad and what we’ve learned in the process, feel free to explore the links below. We’re only a couple years into our journey, but it’s been quite the adventure already. We can’t wait for all that lies ahead.

Onward.

Where we’re going ✈️

  • In year 1 (2022), we started in South Africa; it was amazing

  • In year 2 (2023), we based in Thailand, with some extended stops along the way in Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore; it was hard

  • In year 3 (2024), we plan on somewhere in South America, likely Peru or Colombia

  • In year 4 (2025), we’re considering New Zealand, Australia, or maybe somewhere in Europe—but we’re still deciding

  • After this, when our eldest graduates high school, we’ll reevaluate what the next season holds—they’re always changing

What led us here 🧭