Lifestyle - Expat Magazine
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?
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.
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.
Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life, but it is often met with silence and discomfort in many cultures. For expat women, the challenge of navigating menopause can be compounded by the absence of familiar resources and support systems. This can make dealing with the physical and emotional changes even more difficult. What are effective ways to approach this issue?
We're already seeing distinct trends in where expats choose to relocate in 2025. To better understand the driving forces behind these choices, we'll look at how elements such as hospitality, culture, economic stability, and legal environments are influencing decisions for both current and potential expats. What key developments in these countries are impacting expatriate preferences? Join us as we explore the dynamics shaping the global mobility landscape.
The holiday season is widely celebrated as a magical time for sharing and togetherness. Yet, for expatriates, this period stirs a mix of emotions: joy, nostalgia, and a longing for distant loved ones. When you're far from home, the pull of familiar traditions and faces feels especially strong. Here are some strategies to help you embrace the festive spirit, no matter how many miles away you might be.
Meet Barbara Boyle, a former Creative Director and writer who has worked with global brands and lived in major cities worldwide. Now retired in a 300-year-old farmhouse in Piemonte, Italy, Barbara shares her journey from the fast-paced world of advertising to a serene life amidst vineyards and orchards, and discusses her latest writings on her life in Italy.
The rise of digital nomadism is accelerating as remote work becomes more prevalent. A recent survey revealed that nearly 10% of workers in the United States now identify as digital nomads. While the typical image of a digital nomad is a young, single person in their thirties traveling from one country to another, it's also a viable option for families. However, adopting this lifestyle as a family presents unique challenges. Let's explore these in detail.
USA
Some individuals hinted during the campaign that they might leave the country if Donald Trump were re-elected. Will these declarations materialize into actions? Furthermore, how will the United States fare under the reinstated "America First" policy if it loses domestic and international talent?
Are you considering moving abroad but hesitant about doing it alone? Imagine embarking on this journey not by yourself but with a close friend or sibling. This trend of relocating with loved ones is gaining momentum. What are the benefits and potential hurdles of such an adventure? To give you a clearer picture, we spoke to a couple of people who've made the leap. Here are the insights from Alexia and two sisters, Noa and Lou, who shared their firsthand experiences.
When you are moving abroad for your career, your family will be those coming along. This typically puts them in a somewhat vulnerable position – as they are moving to a new location where nothing awaits them. And while the move may be a great thing for your career, the transition you will be making affects everyone.
According to a recent study by the French health insurance system, between 50 and 80% of women experience the baby blues. This emotional instability, marked by anxiety, sadness, and irritability, is a normal part of postpartum adjustment but may be particularly intense for expatriate mothers isolated from their usual support networks. Fortunately, many countries provide postnatal care options, including programs specifically designed for expatriates.
USA
On November 5, millions of Americans will head to the polls to choose the US president for the next four years. The primary choice is between Kamala Harris for the Democratic Party and Donald Trump for the Republican Party. Their different policies, especially on immigration, foreign policy, and other key issues, will likely affect the lives and plans of both expats living in the US and American expats abroad.
It was widely believed that expatriation would decrease at the pandemic's beginning. Contrary to these expectations, there has been a resurgence. Expatriates are now more focused on integrating into their host countries, seeking to reduce the perception that they are outsiders. How do they adapt to the culture of a foreign country? Are they encountering more challenges than before?
While climate change might not be the primary consideration for those contemplating a move abroad, it undeniably influences life in a foreign country. Today, the impact of human activities on the environment is too significant to overlook. But how does one navigate daily life amid frequent disruptions caused by extreme weather? This is the challenge that expatriates are faced with, experiencing the escalating effects of rising temperatures alongside local residents.
Meet Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi and a seasoned entrepreneur with over 32 years in marketing. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Jen now lives in Mérida, Yucatán, where she helps others find their perfect home abroad through the innovative Expatsi Test. In this interview, Jen shares her experiences and insights on living overseas, adjusting to new cultures, and finding joy in the expat lifestyle.
At first glance, the situation in the Middle East, particularly in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, appears stable and far from critical. Describing it as a crisis, like the international media, might even seem excessive. Dubai continues to attract expatriates worldwide. Nonetheless, a closer examination of long-term trends indicates a subtle but significant shift. Let's delve into this.
We are all guilty of being glued to our phones and laptops all day (sometimes even night!). For expats, who have to keep track of the news in two countries and keep in touch with loved ones abroad, the temptation to remain chronically online is even stronger. Every now and then, a "digital detox" can do wonders for your mental health. But how can you take a break from the digital world?
Articles to help you in your expat project
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