Much like the Grinch, Covid stole Christmas in the past two years, and now it is slowly possible again to think about celebrating. And while the future is still uncertain, many expats around the world are making plans to visit (even for the first time in a while) their loved ones. On the other hand, some have to take an alternative option and meet their loved ones halfway, and some are still waiting for the opportunity to meet those they miss.
Visit your family
Movement around many countries is (while not encouraged) allowed this year. And if you do have the opportunity to visit your family or friends, it is the best way to spend the holidays. Vlad comes from Canada and currently living in Germany. He hasn't been able to visit his family since the beginning of Covid, and now after more than two years, he can finally go home. He is excited to be able to go back to his country, believing that finally, the situation seems calmer.
Meet up halfway
For some, travelling far might not be an option now. Many countries have specific requirements regarding quarantine and vaccines, which makes it difficult for families to meet. Olga comes from St Petersburg and currently lives in Italy. She hasn't seen her brother in a while as he lives in Russia, where the only option for the vaccine is Sputnik. Searching for opportunities, they decided to meet in the Balkans. Their trip starts in Belgrade, and they plan to go for a road trip through Macedonia, Bosnia and Montenegro.
Surprise your loved ones
Sending postcards, gifts, or food baskets to your family might make their day and remind them that you think about them. Check for opportunities and send gifts. Matilde is from Sicily and, currently living in Birmingham. She is homesick and, due to work, not able to visit her family at the moment. She says that the greatest joy for her was receiving a package from her family with her favourite Italian sweets. She is preparing a gift package to send back, happy to be able to keep part of her home with herself.
Keep talking
It's an option that can never replace normal communication. However, if you really cannot visit your family at the moment, you should not give up. Try to talk as often as you can, as it will bring you joy and help you feel less nostalgic during the holidays. Your family is your support system and will always be with you. Make sure they get the same from you too. Jeanne, who is from Hong Kong, is not able to visit her father at the moment due to the quarantine rules. Hoping to realise her plan to see him soon, she is doing everything to be more present in his life, through increasing calls, longer talks and constant connection.
Make solo plans
Nobody wants to be alone for the holidays. But life circumstances may put you in that position, and surprisingly you might have more fun than expected. Just because you are alone does not mean you should be lonely. Invite friends over, care for those who are lonely or do your favourite activity. Spend time with your pet or learn how to play an instrument. Maybe the holidays will be the right time for you to relax and regain energy for the period to come.
Explore your place
If you're new to the country you live in, you might not have had the opportunity to see the winter-beauty side of it. Now is the time to explore. Many European cities have charming x-mass markets attracting people with sparkling lights, cinnamon smells and invigorating mulled wine. Go solo or with friends, explore every corner and enjoy the artsy aesthetics. With every step you make, you might be closer to becoming a local in your new place.
Open up to new friendships
You may feel like a lonely foreigner in a new place, especially during the festive season. Don't give in to thoughts about the people you miss, and try to appreciate those that are around you. New friendships can be fun and can even turn into nice relationships. Don't judge your circle by their age or life ideas. If you are alone, it's time to relax and accept your surroundings. You might be surprised by how much you can enjoy it.
Don't expect too much
Christmas is the most celebrated holiday in the world, but for many, it is just a regular day. While the whole streetlight-euphoria may make you feel like you have to have fun for the holidays, do whatever you like, and don't expect anything different than any other day. Besides, Christmas is a day to appreciate what you have, and that can be done on other days too.
Being an expat during the holidays means going home. But it is not always so. Home is where you feel comfortable, and what better place is there to be comfortable than where you are right now? For all those expats who plan to travel this year, it is a great opportunity to see their loved ones and enjoy. It is an equally nice opportunity for those who decided to stay to connect with themselves. Travelling is one of the most magical experiences in the world, but the real Christmas magic comes from inner peace.
