Lifestyle - Expat Magazine

You may take for granted things you encounter in everyday life that seem to be the norm. However, it is only when you go abroad that you can see just how different mundane, daily tasks and interactions can be. We've compiled some of the unique aspects of different countries that newcomers may find surprising.

Business leaders are looking to emerging markets as the next frontier, with a wealth of potential and opportunity to take their business to the next level. However, to do so is no easy feat, and requires leaders to be, at their heart, highly adaptable. There will be new challenges that haven't been encountered before, with solutions that are likely different to those that have been previously applied to the more developed territories.

Style transcends borders and climates, so no matter where you choose to call home, the most fashionable among us will always be looking to stay chic and on trend. We've picked some of our favourite fashion and lifestyle blogs to keep you inspired, no matter what your style.

International companies are keen on hiring employees to work abroad on long-term contracts or specific projects, and the response they receive from the candidates is rather engaging. But what are multi-national businesses looking to achieve with this practice? And why are people willing to go through the inconvenience of relocation for work? AXA, a global insurance company with 107 million customers all over the world, has asked these and more questions to senior directors in charge of global mobility at 250 multi-national companies in eight countries and to 372 people in 11 countries who are working on international assignments. Expat.com discusses the findings of this survey on global mobility.

Are you planning to move abroad for work or change your lifestyle, or is it that you are looking for a destination to visit? Depending on your motives, Expat.com takes a closer look at the results of IPSOS's 2017 survey which asked three questions to 18,557 international adults: Which city do you think is the best to live in? Visit? Do business in? Have a read and find out whether your favourite city is featured.

The idea of starting over can be daunting, and the idea of starting over in an entirely different country even more so. However, having the right attitude and approach to moving can make all the difference – particularly when challenges present themselves. No matter what your reason for moving, adopting the right attitude can make all the difference on your success as an expat.

If you're planning to move to the other side of the world, you better be aware of the physical risk factors and precautions to take in case of a natural disaster. Some countries are more likely to be hit by cyclones, earthquakes, floods, and wildfire, and other are more susceptible to be affected by the hazards of such phenomena. As we like to say "hope for the best, prepare for the worst".

The meaning of power has changed through time, and nowadays, in the era of digital diplomacy, in which diplomatic objectives are achieved through the internet, the stronger country is the one that collaborates, builds networks beyond geographical borders, and influences others.

On International Nelson Mandela Day, we are taking action and contribute our part to the world by making an impact — on our neighbour's child, our community, country, or, why not, in a different country. For 67 years, Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president of post-apartheid South Africa, was advocating human rights, defending peace, and promoting social justice. In recognition of Mandela's heroism, simplicity, and resistance, Expat.com explores the opportunities of charitable work around the world, and ways to pass the messages of reconciliation and peace through actions. From making a new friend abroad to serving a humanitarian cause, “it always seems impossible until it's done”.

Commemorating the French National Day, July 14 is a public holiday in France. So if you have just landed in France, you would not want to miss the fireworks – which by the way are quite impressive – or the massive military march. What could be a better way to discover the French way of life than mingling in the celebrations, just like the French do?

While some people may be seeking the biggest and most modern cities to relocate to, other expats are searching for a different kind of city life — one that allows them to step back in time. If you are looking for a city with an enticing past to discover, as well as museums  and ancient ruins to wander around, look no further. We have put together some of the most historical cities, where you can experience the past while living in the now.

If you are a tea aficionado in Thailand, fear not, as it turns out Thailand has a unique tea culture — from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, there is no shortage of places and types of tea to experience. As the adoration of tea is spreading worldwide, popular culture has come to embrace teas such as the matcha green tea and the Taiwanese speciality bubble tea-based beverage. John, an American expat in Thailand, guides us through Thailand's tea culture and gives us tips on where to find the finest teas in the country.

Thinking about moving to Germany? You have probably started your research about the country already — the climate, the job market, the formalities, and the leisure activities. But here's some fascinating information about Germany that you may have missed (and will boost your decision making).

For Debbie, moving to her husband's home town of Senta, Serbia from Canada after her retirement seemed like an obvious choice. As she says, retirement doesn't just mean the end of full-time employment, it also means the freedom of adventure. She tells Expat.com about her adventure in Serbia and what it has been like so far.