Lifestyle - Expat Magazine

Why expats struggle to feel at home in their host countries
Why expats struggle to feel at home in their host countries
Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you try, you just can't integrate into the new culture? And even after living in the country for a long time, learning the culture, and speaking the language, do you still feel like an outsider? Unfortunately, this feeling is not uncommon among expats. But where does it come from? And why?
Global eating habits that surprise expatriates
Global eating habits that surprise expatriates
Food habits in a new country can be fascinating and sometimes challenging for expatriates. It's often the aspect of home that people miss the most when they move abroad. What are the surprises awaiting expatriates in terms of "exotic" dishes and local dining etiquette?
From hustle to calm: Adapting to a slower pace of life abroad
From hustle to calm: Adapting to a slower pace of life abroad
In today's interconnected world, understanding the varying rhythms of life across countries is crucial, especially if you're considering moving abroad. Some nations are celebrated for their laid-back lifestyles, while others are famous for their fast-paced environments.
What you risk by consuming drugs and alcohol overseas
What you risk by consuming drugs and alcohol overseas
As the crackdown on drug trafficking ramps up, what steps are states taking to control drugs and alcohol? Since these substances are regulated differently, let's dive into how different places are handling them.
Avoid these common faux pas to make friends successfully abroad
Avoid these common faux pas to make friends successfully abroad
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?
How to stay safe when retiring overseas
How to stay safe when retiring overseas
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.
Petsitting and homesitting for expats: Here's how it works
Petsitting and homesitting for expats: Here's how it works
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.
How to handle menopause while living overseas
How to handle menopause while living overseas
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?
Where are expats moving to in 2025?
Where are expats moving to in 2025?
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.
Holiday season for expats: How to feel closer to home while overseas
Holiday season for expats: How to feel closer to home while overseas
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.
Barbara Boyle: A journey from advertising in the US to the Italian countryside
Barbara Boyle: A journey from advertising in the US to the Italian countryside
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.
How to become a digital nomad with children in tow
How to become a digital nomad with children in tow
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.
Will Trump's re-election impact US emigration trends?
USA
Will Trump's re-election impact US emigration trends?
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?
Is moving abroad with a friend or sibling right for you?
Is moving abroad with a friend or sibling right for you?
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.
Moving abroad for work: Here's how to help your family adapt
Moving abroad for work: Here's how to help your family adapt
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.
How to cope with baby blues while living overseas
How to cope with baby blues while living overseas
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.
US presidential election 2024: Expats express their concerns
USA
US presidential election 2024: Expats express their concerns
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. 
Cultural adaptation: Is it easier or harder for expats in today's world?
Cultural adaptation: Is it easier or harder for expats in today's world?
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?