Lifestyle - Expat Magazine
Bob moved to Da Nang, Vietnam, four months ago. He left America to spend his retirement days in Vietnam. He enjoys spending his free time meeting people and talking to his family back in the States. Bob shares his experience with Expat.com.
During the early days of the COVID pandemic, some were betting on the end of expatriation. Governments were taking steps to promote the employment of locals, as in Singapore, where companies were encouraged to favor nationals. Did that mean that foreigners were no longer welcome? Did that point to a place where local policies would dictate the future of national economies? Obviously not! Actually, moving abroad plans only changed their form. Digital nomadism, entrepreneurship, professional opportunities, and studying abroad are as many facets of post-COVID moving abroad plans. So, why should you move abroad in 2023, and how?
As expats enter a new year of living abroad and others are considering a move, it's high time to think ahead. Some destinations, for instance, Canada, are predicted to be very popular in 2023 because they appeal to many expats' current priorities. Furthermore, surveys reveal that lifestyle and cost of living are likely to be expats' priorities in 2023. The average age of expats is also predicted to keep getting younger.
Like other festivities, the New Year varies between cultures. In some countries, it is celebrated with pomp and splendor, while in others, the celebrations are toned down or focused on shopping. The Northern Hemisphere is in winter and the Southern Hemisphere is in summer on December 31, which also creates very different experiences. Many non-Western countries use another calendar than the Gregorian one and have another much more culturally significant “New Year” than December 31.
In many EU/EEA countries, there exist cultural integration programs to ensure that long-term expats learn the local language and understand the country well. France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Norway, Sweden and Estonia all offer such programs. Outside of the EU, the Canadian province of Quebec offers a similar program.
Going abroad is exciting, but going green abroad is even better. How about making it your new year's resolution? Expats are increasingly concerned about the environment. But how to adapt your lifestyle in a foreign country? What are the best ways to consume less and in a responsible way? In other words, how to become an eco-expat?
Every expat has probably been surprised or even shocked by some aspects of the way of life in their host country. Food, work relations, culture are some of the small everyday particularities that one needs to learn to live with. But sometimes, some things won't pass... others are incompatible with our values. What should you do when you're not able to downsides of your expat country's culture?
These last two years have been quite challenging for expatriates. Some of them have not been able to return home to celebrate Christmas and the New Year for almost two years. From restrictions in the host country to last-minute cancellations due to the pandemic, expats have not been spared.
With the oil crisis consequently affecting the price of kerosene, a critical factor for air travel, in addition to inflation and new environmental standards, air ticket prices have been soaring to unprecedented heights this year. The situation is as bad around the world, leading to rises in air ticket prices for the end-of-year holidays. To avoid saturation and stress a few days before Christmas, here are some tips to make the most of your flight.
When invited to a dinner party, some questions will inevitably come to your mind. Should you arrive on time, early or late? With or without a gift? Will you be sitting on a chair or on the floor? Shall you eat with your hands? In silence? What to say, what to do, when, how, and in what tone? Presented in this way, a simple meal with all the daunting etiquette that goes with it can become a real brainteaser.
China
When it implemented its zero COVID policy, the Chinese government was confident of its ability to completely eradicate the virus from its territory. Beijing still officially holds this line, despite acknowledging that its policy is unpopular. The three-year isolation has had heavy consequences on both human and political planes and will probably continue to do so in the coming years. The population has been pushed to the very edge. Under pressure from unprecedented demonstrations, Beijing is giving ground for the first time.
Are you planning to study abroad and are not going alone? What status should you and your dependents have? How to plan your move abroad? From choosing a country to sorting out aid organizations and visas, here's a review of all the aspects you need to consider before your move.
New Zealand
New Zealand is actively seeking skilled migrants to boost its economy. Having suffered the consequences of its zero-covid policy, the country officially lifted all restrictions last September. The clock is ticking to revive growth despite inflationary pressures. Why is immigration essential to New Zealand? What measures has the government taken to attract foreign workers?
There is so much to talk about when living in wartorn countries and those affected by political instability, inflation, job loss, and other crises. At the end of a year that has been particularly marked by such conflicts, members of the Expat.com community share their experiences of living in such countries.
Portugal
Bruno was at the end of his executive career when he decided to leave his province of Padua, in Italy, for Quarteira, located in the Algarve. Although he chose Portugal purely by chance, he says that the country has always been one of his favorite destinations for its climate, tranquility, safety and reasonable cost of living.
Moving overseas is an enriching experience that many Europeans seek every year. While some prefer to stay in Europe, others choose to go on a great adventure on the other side of the world and sometimes even stay there for good. Which are currently the most attractive non-European countries for Europeans?
Until now, Malta has been the only country in the European Union with a total ban on abortion, but that might soon change. Safe and legal abortion is available on request in most EU countries and is often even fully funded by the state. Apart from Malta, only Poland currently has highly restrictive access to abortion. Meanwhile, the rise of the far-right in Italy has awakened the fears of pro-choice citizens and expats there.
One thing is for sure! Everyday life has become very challenging since the Covid pandemic. Furthermore, the energy crisis and inflation have only made things more stressful for international students. Finding a job to meet the increasing expenses has become essential. But how does one deal with the balance between studies and work? How does work fit into the life of an international student?
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