Lifestyle - Expat Magazine
Often, your eligibility for allowances and compensation depends on your place of residence, and therefore, they cannot be "exported" when you move abroad. However, expats can still enjoy certain benefits while living in their host countries. Here's how it works.
Political instability in a country may prevent or restrict international travel. Laws enacted by a particular state may limit or relax immigration rules. Other policies, such as environmental and economic laws, also influence the individual conscience. Can you relocate to any country? What are the obstacles that might jeopardize your moving abroad plans?
Exploring a new country as an expat comes with exciting discoveries and cultural nuances. And this is true for most aspects of our lives – even something as mundane as taking out the trash. From unusual restrictions to quirky regulations, here are some of the most peculiar garbage disposal laws around the world that expats should keep in mind.
Morocco
Morocco has caught the world's attention following the deadly earthquake it was struck by last Friday. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the tremors were of magnitude 6.8, while the Moroccan Geophysical Center recorded the magnitude at 7.2. The local media points out that this is the strongest earthquake the country has experienced in over 120 years. Expats who have been in Morocco for several years have seen their lives turn into a nightmare in just a few minutes.
Workplace socialization has significantly evolved in recent years, especially with new technologies, societal changes and events such as the Covid-19 pandemic, which have compelled companies and employees to adapt to remote working. However, although remote working is a growing trend, it significantly impacts expats' everyday lives.
Moving abroad as a family can be the adventure of a lifetime, a couple's or personal challenge, a choice for the two or not, with or without each others's support. The couple can sometimes bear the brunt of this choice unless their life abroad has further fractured an already fragile relationship. When it's no longer possible to pick up the broken pieces and stick them back, divorce seems to be the last resort, but an expat woman can be in an even more precarious situation between legal considerations and the weight of culture and tradition.
Canada and Australia are well-known to be the powerhouses of immigration of the moment, and the United States and the United Kingdom have always been popular with immigrants too. However, other countries, including smaller ones, are trying to position themselves as attractive expat and immigrant destinations. The labor shortage in these countries has forced their governments to relax immigration laws in recent years.
Every country has its own traditions, symbols and cultural practices. These are particularly evident on special occasions such as weddings. A unique day that calls for unique traditions that you need to be aware of to avoid offending families and making a blunder. Here's an overview of the different rites around the world, which you need to know if you're planning to get married abroad or if you've been invited to a wedding ceremony in your host country.
Netherlands
Originally from Picardy, France, Camille is an adventurer at heart. Attracted to travel from an early age, she had the opportunity to visit several European countries as part of the Erasmus program, and Asia before settling in Amsterdam, where she now enjoys a fulfilling personal and professional life. But one thing's for sure: this isn't her last adventure! Camille talks to us about her journey, her challenges, but also her successes with a head full of dreams and projects.
Italy
Italy, which already has one of the strictest laws on surrogacy, is taking another historical turn. Does this imply new challenges for parenthood and abortion rights? What is the situation like in other countries?
It can be more challenging for introverted expats to make new friends abroad. They can take more time adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings. However, their adaptation process can be easier if they personalize their house into a safety cocoon, create comforting rituals, connect with people with the same hobbies and don't pressurize themselves to do too many things at once.
Australia
Language tests are often required for studying or working abroad, or obtaining a residence permit, but they are often criticized. Some people find them too numerous and costly, especially when they have already proven their language proficiency. Regardless of your reason for moving abroad, here's how you can cope with language test hurdles.
Moving to the Middle East has become a prominent trend, with the United Arab Emirates and Cyprus leading the way. A wide array of individuals, including foreign investors, executives, young graduates, and students, are now exploring opportunities in cities like Dubai or Nicosia, making it an increasingly diverse community. Some other countries in the region, like Saudi Arabia, are also making modest reforms to attract more foreign professionals.
Netherlands
Immigration remains a central topic of debate in the European Union. As France tries to heal the wounds of a week of riots (late June to early July), discussions about immigration have fueled debates, even though the perpetrators of violence were French citizens. During the same period, the European Commission published its Eurobarometer, analyzing the perception of immigration among Europeans.
Being an expat, exploring new horizons and adjusting to a new environment can be both exciting and stimulating. However, when temperatures reach extreme levels, the heat can considerably challenge our resilience and adaptability. Whether you are a recently settled expat in a region with scorching summers or planning to move to a country vulnerable to heat waves, here are some tips to help you overcome such situations.
Living abroad has become an increasingly common experience for those looking for new opportunities, adventures, or personal growth. However, as expats immerse themselves in a different culture and navigate life in a foreign land, their identities also undergo a profound transformation. This raises the question: What is the impact of living abroad on one's identity, particularly in terms of national identity? To put this in simpler terms: does living in Thailand for ten years make you less British or American? And if so, is there a way to preserve your national identity while living abroad?
China
A new law was enacted in China on July 1, 2023. It broadens the scope of what is considered espionage and grants the Chinese government increased authority to address perceived threats to national security. Here's what it means for expats.
Italy
It has been nearly four years since Sara, a young Iranian expat, settled in Rome. Originally in Italy to pursue her higher education, she eventually landed her dream job in the city after graduating. She shares her experience and talks about the myriad of opportunities that the eternal city of Rome has offered her.
Articles to help you in your expat project
Getting married in Qatar
Getting married in Qatar could be a hassle for newbies. However, knowing the right procedure and information can ...
Marriage in Brazil
Brazil can be a romantic country, and you may want to marry here. Perhaps you even want to remain in Brazil ...
Getting married in Greece
Dreaming of getting married in Greece? Whether you're a foreigner or a Greek citizen, tying the knot in this ...
Getting married in Vietnam
Have you met that perfect someone who you want to spend the rest of your life with? Luckily, getting married in ...
Marriage in Hong Kong
There are many reasons why you may want to get married in Hong Kong. You could be a long-term expat and have ...
Getting married in the Philippines
Getting married in the Philippines provides a backdrop of immense beauty through stunning beaches, tropical ...
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