Moving to a new country is often accompanied by many emotions.
Excitement, apprehension, and anticipation are the most common ones to expect. It is a massive decision for anyone.
If you are moving overseas soon and are worried about your decision, read on for eight tips to make you feel more comfortable and prepared:
- Research Your New Country
Spend time researching and learning about your new country.
Do not stop at the surface level – apart from learning how the locals dress or what they like to eat, dig deeper to find out about the cost of living and how healthcare functions, among other things like employment laws.
Learn as much about your new chosen country as possible and remember that what is odd in one culture may be expected in another.
Familiarize yourself with your destination city – learn about the layout, public transportation, and how the locals like to spend their free time.
- Learn The Language
Even if your destination country has a lot of English speakers, learning the language will help you venture outside of the expat community and build authentic relationships with the locals.
Learn the language by signing up for classes or using an app like Duolingo.
To learn common colloquialisms and expressions, work directly with a tutor. No one expects you to be fluent in a few weeks – you will continue to learn the language for months after moving.
The best way to learn a new language is to immerse yourself in it – speak it at every opportunity. Do not be shy; the locals will appreciate your efforts and help correct you.
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- Join Groups
Find groups to join on social media and other internet forums.
All the most popular countries have loads of groups to choose from to help introduce you to your new city.
If you have kids, consider enrolling them in after-school activities to help them make new friends. Relocation consultants can also offer job ideas, help with accommodation searches, and help you navigate your new world.
- Healthcare
Every country has a healthcare system, so research first to know what to expect.
Get expat health insurance to keep you and your family in good hands if you have any medical needs.
Speak with expat residents through social media groups so you know what to do and what not to do regarding healthcare in your new country.
Understand that your medical information will be necessary, so ensure that your healthcare records, immunization history, and insurance information are on hand when required.
Access to quality healthcare is crucial. Some countries have excellent healthcare systems, while others are fraught with challenges.
- Explore Your New City
Get out there and experience your new city and everything it offers!
Hop on a bus, get off at a random (but safe) stop and explore the area. Find shops, tourist attractions, walking trails, restaurants, and more. Exploring the city is the best way to find its hidden gems and local landmarks.
- Make New Friends
Getting to know your new city will be much easier if you have locals to show you where the best places are!
Make new friends as soon as you have settled into your new home.
Visit restaurants, markets, and other attractions in your new city to seek out people in your age bracket. Moms can also meet new mom friends during school drop-offs and events. Do not be put off by your age, people can still make friends at any age – that is not something reserved for childhood alone.
Some of the best friendships people make in their lives, happen later in life.
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• Medical emergencies
• Stolen or lost goods
• Canceled flights and more
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- Take Your Time
Moving to a new country takes time – or it should, anyway.
Relocating is more than simply packing and unpacking your possessions. Do not underestimate the gravity of your decision – do not be afraid of it either.
Thorough research will help you enjoy your experience and enable you to plan effectively and set up contingency plans if things do not run as smoothly as anticipated.
- Set Goals
Living in a new country is an exciting time, and as much as you want to get out there and explore your landscape (and you should!), it is crucial to set goals.
Long-term goals require a clear roadmap of decisions that need to be made and actions that need to be taken to ensure that you get what you have set out to.
You are moving overseas for a reason – it could be for work or to be with someone you are in a relationship with, but whatever the reason, set milestones to provide an anchor for when the homesickness kicks in.
To End
Follow these eight tips above to help make the most of your adventures and enhance your overall quality of life in your new country!
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Last Updated on October 14, 2024
