Lifestyle - Expat Magazine

Trump's return sparks major shifts in US immigration: Here's how
Trump's return sparks major shifts in US immigration: Here's how
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20. In his assertive inauguration speech, he swiftly signed numerous executive orders, signaling a robust return to the White House. Among these orders were significant and surprising changes to immigration policies. What do these changes mean for expatriates and those planning to move to the US?
California on fire: How expats are coping with the crisis
California on fire: How expats are coping with the crisis
Wildfires are relentlessly sweeping through Southern California. In Los Angeles County, one desolate scene follows another. Expatriates recount their harrowing experiences, still reeling from the shock.
Retiring abroad: Top picks for your departure in 2025
Retiring abroad: Top picks for your departure in 2025
Retiring abroad is a growing trend, as data from various countries shows. This shift also suggests a rethinking of the boundary between active life and retirement, which today is more fluid than ever before. What can we expect, and which destinations are the top-rated in 2025?
Mastering cultural sensitivity: Why it matters for expats
Mastering cultural sensitivity: Why it matters for expats
If you follow the news (especially the news on YouTube), you may have heard about several instances of foreigners being deported, arrested, or vehemently criticized for behaving inappropriately abroad. In this context, the discussion about cultural sensitivity takes center stage. And this is what we will be looking into today.
How to keep long-distance friendships alive while living abroad
How to keep long-distance friendships alive while living abroad
Living abroad offers a distinct and enriching experience, but it often comes with the challenge of maintaining relationships with loved ones, including our closest friends. This includes friends from our hometown as well as those we meet during our travels and previous stints abroad. The question arises: how can we keep these long-distance friendships alive and prevent them from diminishing over time? Is it feasible to sustain genuine friendships when face-to-face interactions are rare? In this article, expats share their insights on navigating these challenges.
Does being an expat really make you cooler?
Does being an expat really make you cooler?
You vividly recall the day you announced your big news: you were moving abroad for an incredible adventure. You can still see the astonishment, the envious glances, and mixed heartfelt and obligatory congratulations. "You're so lucky!" your friends and family often exclaim, almost excessively, making you feel as if you truly possess something special. You're an expatriate. But what do people think when they elevate an expat to such heights? Between dreams, misconceptions, and realities, does being an expat make you cooler?
New year, new you: Essential wellness tips for expats in 2025
New year, new you: Essential wellness tips for expats in 2025
Instead of setting lofty resolutions that often fall by the wayside, begin the year with a focus on self-care. What's the best way to navigate expatriation or improve your expat life in 2025? Consider these health and wellness tips to start off on the right foot.
Year-end rituals for expats: Reflections and forward planning
Year-end rituals for expats: Reflections and forward planning
The holiday season offers more than just the chance to unwrap gifts and enjoy festive treats—it's a crucial time for expatriates to pause and reflect on their journey far from home. Amid the celebrations, this period can be transformed into a meaningful personal development ritual. Let's explore how to make the most of this festive season for growth and reflection.
Expatriates reflect on 2024 and anticipate 2025
Expatriates reflect on 2024 and anticipate 2025
As 2024 draws to a close, it has been a year filled with new discoveries, challenges, and unique adventures for expatriates globally. Adapting to different cultures, establishing new routines, and experiencing both doubts and joys, each journey of expatriation stands alone. We have captured the voices of those who opted to live abroad.
How to overcome seasonal affective disorders as an expat
How to overcome seasonal affective disorders as an expat
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is often called "seasonal depression" – and sometimes more lightheartedly – "winter blues". Whichever the name we go with though, SAD can be a real problem. It can make you feel like you are upset for no particular reason, have no energy for anything, and cause a variety of other disruptions in your life. For expats, SAD gets even more complicated – as you are probably already dealing with a rollercoaster of emotions that comes with living abroad. So, how do we deal with it?
Expatriates as content creators: How living abroad fuels creativity
Expatriates as content creators: How living abroad fuels creativity
Over the past 15 years, social media's expansion has birthed numerous new professions, notably content creators. These creators are a fixture across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Many have professionalized their content creation, becoming influencers for top brands or sharing their expertise. Others engage in content creation as a hobby, driven by passion and inspired by daily experiences.
Why expats struggle to feel at home in their host countries
Why expats struggle to feel at home in their host countries
Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you try, you just can't integrate into the new culture? And even after living in the country for a long time, learning the culture, and speaking the language, do you still feel like an outsider? Unfortunately, this feeling is not uncommon among expats. But where does it come from? And why?
Global eating habits that surprise expatriates
Global eating habits that surprise expatriates
Food habits in a new country can be fascinating and sometimes challenging for expatriates. It's often the aspect of home that people miss the most when they move abroad. What are the surprises awaiting expatriates in terms of "exotic" dishes and local dining etiquette?
From hustle to calm: Adapting to a slower pace of life abroad
From hustle to calm: Adapting to a slower pace of life abroad
In today's interconnected world, understanding the varying rhythms of life across countries is crucial, especially if you're considering moving abroad. Some nations are celebrated for their laid-back lifestyles, while others are famous for their fast-paced environments.
What you risk by consuming drugs and alcohol overseas
What you risk by consuming drugs and alcohol overseas
As the crackdown on drug trafficking ramps up, what steps are states taking to control drugs and alcohol? Since these substances are regulated differently, let's dive into how different places are handling them.
Avoid these common faux pas to make friends successfully abroad
Avoid these common faux pas to make friends successfully abroad
Montaigne viewed friendship as a profound union where "souls unite and merge so fully that the seam that once joined them vanishes." Although expats might not seek such intense bonds, forming lasting friendships, especially with locals, can deeply enhance the experience of living abroad. Yet, forging these connections can be challenging. Unseen cultural norms can complicate matters, although making friends doesn't typically demand strict etiquette. Still, what are the faux pas that should be avoided?
How to stay safe when retiring overseas
How to stay safe when retiring overseas
An increasing number of individuals are opting to retire abroad, drawn by lower living costs, favorable weather, and a change of pace. However, as they age and become more vulnerable, this dream retirement can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges. A recent testimony highlights the risks involved and underscores the need for careful planning.
Petsitting and homesitting for expats: Here's how it works
Petsitting and homesitting for expats: Here's how it works
Housesitting and petsitting have become popular solutions for expats looking to address three common travel challenges: saving money, securing their homes, and caring for their pets. But how do you find the best deals during holiday seasons, and how can you ensure that the person you're entrusting your home and pets to is reliable? Here are some useful tips to guide you.