The best countries for expat women
Where do expat women feel most comfortable? Going out at night, asking a stranger for directions, and driving a car are actions that may seem commonplace but are more or less authorized, monitored, or tolerated depending on the country because these actions reflect notions of rights, freedom and power. The definition of these rights and powers varies from country to country. Some lag behind on this issue, while others are presented as the most advanced in this field. Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Germany, Luxembourg, Canada, Australia and New Zealand often top the list of best countries for women to live abroad.
Their main advantages are social progress (parenthood, gender equality, career prospects for women, etc.). They are known for a better sharing of public space. Various surveys point out that women feel safer in these countries; they go out alone or in groups at night, come home alone or in groups, and integrate into a society they consider more open than others. Approaching a passerby is not a problem, nor is staying out late after a party.
Women's rights are also a cultural issue. Countless articles extoll the virtues of Scandinavian culture, which may explain the appeal of these countries to expatriate women. In contrast, other countries such as Qatar, Japan, India and China are considered less open regarding social progress for women. But that doesn't mean they're less popular with expat women. While respect for women's rights is a crucial factor when choosing your new destination, it is also part of a broader consideration of the country's culture and the cultural particularities that need to be considered.
Cultural subtleties in shared space
To better understand the cultural subtleties of a country, we need to look at the different spheres of interaction.
Public space
One of the questions prospective expats may ask is whether it's safe to walk alone. This is especially true in countries where more traditional cultures impose a certain distance between women and men. Women talk to each other, as do men. For an expatriate woman, starting a conversation with a stranger will put her further out of the loop. For example, we often think of foreign women traveling alone in India. Of course, traveling in India is not dangerous in itself; you just have to take into account its cultural peculiarities, starting with the geographical differences. We often speak of a country as a whole, but it's often the case that certain areas, especially the more touristy ones. For example, Goa is not India. For example, the tourist city grants more freedom in terms of dress code. South India is generally considered more "laid back" than other parts of India, which are considered more conservative.
But as a general rule, it's always best to blend in. In India, certain places are reserved for women. This is visible and voluntary segregation should be respected. In other countries, these "separations" apply to public spaces. Some areas will be more frequented by men.
Do more rights for women mean more freedom?
Sometimes, progress goes hand in hand with repression, especially for women. Saudi Arabia, for example, is determined to become the new expatriate hub in the Middle East, ahead of the very popular United Arab Emirates (UAE). Riyadh doesn't even hide its rivalry with Dubai and is introducing progressive laws one after the other. Since the 2018 law allowing women to drive, other strong measures have changed the public space. Women can be seen everywhere, holding positions in ministries, large companies and universities. When it comes to dressing, they can do without the traditional abaya that covers the entire body. The dress used to be compulsory at work and in public places. Now that the morality police has been abolished, women are enjoying greater freedom in the streets while dressing decently and in line with the country's conservative culture and values.
The country, which has long applied a rigorous vision of Islamic law, is known for male domination at all levels. However, by granting more rights to women, Saudi Arabia is reshaping the public sphere, thus improving its image globally to attract more foreigners. For Saudi women, however, modernity still comprises certain restrictions. A law passed in 2022 restricts women's freedom to marry. Conservatism and repression still exist but in a more diffuse form.
Cultural subtleties in greetings and encounters
Even countries considered to be more culturally "liberal" have their peculiarities. In France, people don't greet each other like in the United States or Japan. A kiss on the cheeks is frowned upon in other cultures where physical greetings are not the norm. Even in France, kissing on the cheeks is not universally accepted. At workplaces, for example, people simply wave at each other. New behaviors acquired since the health crisis have become the new norm. Again, there are no general rules, as interactions depend on the different circles. Understanding a country's culture will, therefore, help you make the most of your stay abroad.
How to meet new people
Expatriates import their traditions, culture, and way of interacting in all areas. However, problems can arise when you move to a country with a culture that is very different from your own. For example, women who have grown up in a conservative, patriarchal culture may find it challenging to find their way when they move abroad for the first time. They find themselves free to walk down the street freely, dress as they please, go wherever they want, etc. This sudden freedom can be unsettling.
For these women, even more than for those accustomed to living in a cosmopolitan environment (one with a more open culture), moving abroad is a challenge in itself. Joining a group can be an excellent way to make the first stages of living abroad easier. Expat groups and other online communities come to mind, but you can stick to something different from expat groups. For example, you can join a community based on your interests. It is recommended that you join one before moving to start socializing and making local contacts. These new encounters started online can be maintained once expatriates arrive in their host country.
Socializing in a foreign country
Other expatriates find it hard to get out of their comfort zone. Again, joining friendly networks before you leave helps build confidence. You already know people when you arrive in your expat country. You can join a local sports or recreational club. It's generally easier to socialize in a small group than in a crowd of strangers. Plus, if you're involved in the same activity, you already have something to talk about and something in common. You can also make new connections at your workplace or university. International students take advantage of their school's activities to meet new people. Professional expat women or company directors can rely on their colleagues or professional network.
Either way, there's no pressure. Socializing can take time, whether you're easy to talk to or not. Again, cultural nuances lead to different practices in different countries. You will get to learn these subtleties on the spot as you observe the locals and meet new people.
