Advice for new expats heading overseas

Becoming an expat involves taking on a totally unfamiliar world of diverse differences, from language through culture, food and behavioural norms.

It’s entirely possible most new expats have no idea what they’ve taken on by removing themselves from their comfort zones and dumping themselves down in totally different surroundings occupied by a species as unfamiliar as the aliens in the latest Star Wars blockbuster. The average new expat arrival knows change is inevitable, but how much and how soon depends a lot on preparations made before leaving the home country.

Firstly, arranging your finances before you leave and making sure you still have unfettered access to your own money leaves you free to concentrate on more important issues such as finding somewhere to live once you’ve arrived at your final destination. Having at least two bank accounts with attached debit cards means if one is blocked by the bank as it’s ignored the fact you’ll be overseas, the second bank won’t as yet have taken the same action.

Joining a local online forum before you leave will help with getting the information you need as a new arrival, and could be the starting point for friendship in a strange land. Learning the absolute basics of the local language, including the alphabet if possible, will allow communication at am everyday level when you really need it. Checking out destination-relevant blogs online will get you an idea of the culture and how not to make an absolute idiot of yourself on your first day.

Getting your phone unlocked soon after you’ve touched down is another essential, along with the option of buying an unlocked one online if necessary. Most international airports offer tourist SIM cards with enough hours to cover your signing up with a local provider. Being realistic about your chosen corner of the planet in all-important, as nowhere is as perfect as it is in the movies. Going with the flow will help you adjust and settle down.

Getting to know your immediate neighbourhood on foot is another way to get an insight into the real world for locals as well as expat residents. This last piece of advice is the most important – never, ever be afraid to ask for help!