Living in Maldives: the ultimate expat guide

Gulzat in Maldives: "It's the paradise for people in love with the sea and the beach"

Gulzat comes from Kyrgyzstan. She had always dreamt of living on an island. Seven months ago, her dream came true: she got a job opportunity in Maldives and she is now enjoying life as an islander...

Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity

Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.

How different countries approach midday breaks

Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.

Understanding inheritance law and taxes

The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.

Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important

Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?

How to manage international teams and overcome cultural barriers

Taking on a management role abroad is an intriguing career move, yet many underestimate the significance of understanding cultural nuances in the workplace for a successful international leadership role. What key aspects should you consider beyond the usual cultural stereotypes?

Why pursue a Master's degree overseas?

More people are opting to study abroad, regardless of their intentions to pursue an international career. Although the opportunity to study in another country is currently accessible, starting a career there can present challenges due to restrictions in several key destinations. Earning a master's degree abroad can be an effective strategy for achieving long-term integration into the local job market. Here is a detailed analysis.

How to save on your US expat tax return

Managing your tax obligations can be complicated for US expats. As a US citizen living abroad, you still have to file a US tax return, and you may have to pay local taxes in your country of residence, too. Fortunately, the IRS and local governments have put provisions in place to help alleviate this burden. Knowing about and claiming these provisions is the key to saving money as an American living overseas, as they can not only help reduce or even eliminate your US tax bill, but sometimes you can even claim a refund you didn't know about!