Lifestyle - Expat Magazine
Although the Omicron variant is still strongly present, particularly in Europe, and a "BA.2" sub-variant is spreading like wildfire, many countries are gradually shifting to a new normal by lifting their restrictions in an attempt to revive their economies. In Denmark and England, there are almost no restrictions, while in Quebec and France, many of them no longer apply. However, scientists doubt whether now is the right time to drop the mask obligation. What are these countries strategies to fight Covid in 2022?
For decades, societies have conveyed the image of women as trailing spouses, but things are changing worldwide. More and more women are travelling and moving abroad alone, as a couple, as a family. Indeed, women no longer have to hide their ambitions in a patriarchal world. Today, more and more men are encouraging their spouses to follow their dreams and careers, sacrificing theirs. Who are these men, and how do they get along with their new role as trailing spouses?
Angelica is originally from Verbania, Italy. It's been nearly ten years since she moved to the UK, hungry for independence and new experiences. She has also spent a year in Germany for her studies before going back to the UK and is currently in the process of obtaining British citizenship. She talks to us about living in London as an expat between Brexit and the Covid pandemic.
Higher food costs and the energy bill crisis drove inflation in the UK to 5.4% in 2021 until December, up from 5.1% the month before, in another blow to struggling expats. Expatriates might be facing a hard choice between heating or eating.
Fear has arisen just a few days before the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games. Covid has managed to filter through the "sanitary bubble". This means more tests, more control, and more restrictions for locals and expatriates. Borders remain closed, affecting international exchanges, whether commercial or educational. More and more foreigners seem keen to leave. Is mainland China about to experience an expat exodus too?
"Thank you Erasmus". Words of gratitude are raining on social media in millions of former participants in all languages. Founded in 1987, Erasmus is an international mobility program and marked its 35th anniversary on January 20th. On this occasion, here is an insight into the benefits of this program through expat testimonies.
In December 2021, Poland's parliament passed a media bill that aims to silence a news channel critical of the government in an unexpected move that will stoke media freedom concerns and reopen a diplomatic dispute with the US. With all that, how is it like to be an expat from Poland or one wishing to live there?
"Retire in Dubai" was launched more than a year ago by the government. This program is intended for foreign professionals who have worked in the territory and do not wish to leave. This program is, in fact, part of a new strategy set up by the United Arab Emirates to meet the needs of expatriates. But other countries like Argentina, Thailand, Mexico, etc., already have similar programs to retain expats beyond their careers.
Maëva has been in love with Quebec for nearly twenty years, but she only decided to take the leap of faith during the pandemic, looking for a better quality of life. She talks to us about her expat experience with her partner and their two children and the many opportunities available in this Canadian province for expatriates.
Haven't you ever dreamed of working close to the paradise beaches of Phuket or the Terrasses de Lavaux in the Swiss canton of Vaud, or treat yourself to a chic evening in Dubai and admire the view from the Atmosphere, the tallest restaurant in the world? Many of us have been waiting to grab our chance of living the expat life. Still, there are many things to consider before actually moving to some of the world's most popular expat destinations.
Expat life is often idealized, especially on Instagram, where you can see amazing exploration photos. This lifestyle can indeed make people envious, yet there is a setback that expats do not always publish on social media. Living abroad also involves dealing with loneliness, poor well-being, or even culture shock. Expats talk to Expat.com about how their dream turned into a nightmare.
Tanzania
Virginie, a French expat, has an uncommon story. In 2020, she decided to follow her heart to Tanzania, which opened the doors for her to a world of opportunities. Having a rich career in many fields, Virginie is now happy to run her own business and enjoys the "hakuna matata" lifestyle.
Mégane landed for the first time in Mauritius in 2018 for an internship, but she quickly fell in love with the island's beauty. So back in France in 2019, she decided to go back and settle down in Mauritius for good. Today, she is an entrepreneur and social media influencer and talks to us about her journey as an expat.
Australia
Since December 15, 2021, working-holidayers are back in Australia. Could this be the first step towards the total reopening of the borders? While some feared another postponement, the derogatory border reopening was set for December 1, although cases of the Omicron variant were detected. This marks the concrete end of the "Travel Ban", and is quite encouraging for people who are looking to travel and move to Australia in 2022.
Switzerland, the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Australia, Canada, etc., are known for their skilled labour shortage and implementing policies to encourage immigration. But some countries are focusing on brain gain instead. With a never-ending pandemic, including new variants, economies are finding it hard to rely on foreign labour. Wouldn't it be a good idea if expatriates returned to serve their home country? Here's an insight into what's happening around the world.
Africa is currently on the move. Despite the pandemic, African economies are growing, as evidenced by Morocco's new economic plan. Faced with new global challenges such as global warming, clean energy, health, etc., countries are committing themselves, relying on international talents. So what's on the offer for expatriates in Africa?
Are you planning a move to Canada, the United States, or a getaway to Senegal, Thailand, South Korea? Perhaps you are eager to return to your home country and reunite with your loved ones. The start of the year sounds like revenge or catch-up for many. Despite the uncertainty brought about by the pandemic, people are again looking to travel or relocate overseas. But have you ever thought about what you're allowed to pack in your suitcase?
For many, moving abroad means embracing new life, embarking on a new adventure. It also means meeting new people, sharing moments and experiences, planning outings and building solid friendships. But this is not always the case, which can make your stay abroad quite challenging. So how to make new friends in a not so friendly city as an expat?
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