Natallia Slimani-Mercier

Teaching abroad is a great opportunity to experience a new country, gain professional experience, make new connections — and more. The opportunity to live abroad while receiving a salary and having your basic expenses covered sounds like a dream to many. And there is a high chance that this lifestyle may be yours — provided, of course, that you have the right qualifications or are willing to work on acquiring them. Let's look into this in a bit more detail.

The end of the year is a time for conclusions, resolutions, and celebrations. As an international student abroad, celebrating the New Year in a new environment can be one of the most exciting things ever. New people, new locations, and newly gained independence — all of this sounds like the perfect setup for the end-of-year bash. But, like most things in the life of an expat, it's not that simple.

Celebrating Christmas in a new country as an expat can bring up a really eclectic blend of feelings and challenges. On the one hand, being in a new country during the holidays grants you the joy of discovering new traditions and adds an interesting new flavor to the holiday season. On the other hand, it presents you with a unique set of challenges, including missing familiar customs and coping with the nostalgia of home. 

Celebrating traditional family holidays abroad is rarely easy. But there's something about Christmas that makes it particularly challenging. Today, we'll try to unpack what it is that we miss about Christmas away from home and look into ways to “manufacture” Christmas spirit in a foreign country.

The season is upon us. And no matter how many exciting plans you have for this holiday season, there will probably be a time in your busy schedule when you will want to have some cozy TV time. Here's where we have you covered. Here are the best Christmas movies to keep you entertained this holiday season.

Spending the holidays away from home can be a uniquely challenging experience. Moreover, the holiday season often heightens homesickness and loneliness as traditions and family gatherings take center stage. Today, we will look into ways to address these feelings so that your holidays in a new location are a source of positive memories you will want to keep.

There are lots of reasons to visit a new city. However, few are more compelling than really great food. Locating these special destinations is rarely easy. That is unless you have a handy list to go by. Here are the best cities in the world to plan your next dinner.

Since November set in, one Pumpkin Spice Latte at a time, many of us in the Northern Hemisphere may have started to feel that familiar autumn crisp that makes us want to dig into a warm blanket and watch the world from behind a large window. But beyond the cozy comforters and heaps of colorful leaves, there is more to autumn when it comes to our emotions. And not all of it is pleasant.

The life of an expat is full of surprises. New countries come with new cultures, rules, traditions, food, work schedules, and much more. Where most expats generally don't expect surprises is in the bathroom. After all, how strange can things get in a water closet (WC)? Turns out, the life of an expat is, indeed, full of surprises – and nowhere is an exception. 

Today, we are looking into digital nomad visas that have minimal requirements. This means that even if you are just starting out in an office-free adventure and still developing your client base, you may be able to find a stable temporary base with digital nomad perks.

Finding fellow expats in a new country may be a dream come true — at first. However, if your expat circle prevents you from experiencing life in your new destination, you may want to start planning your escape. Here's what you should know.

Returning home after a long time abroad can be a truly rewarding and much-awaited experience. However, it can also pose several distinct challenges, from reverse culture shock to even a new language barrier. Let's see what can be done to make the transition easier.

Moving to a new country can be an exciting and challenging experience, with many opportunities to explore a new culture and way of life. One of the most exciting aspects of settling into a new country is discovering the local cuisine. Trying new foods and flavors is a fantastic way to immerse oneself in a new culture and create lasting memories. However, with new cuisines come new challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. 

Many destinations have programs in place that help expats adapt to a new life and better integrate into society. However, some countries go the extra mile to make newcomers feel especially welcome. Here are a few destination options if you are looking for that extra warm welcome.

In today's global work world, being engaged at work is really important for success. For foreign professionals who have moved to a new country to work, workplace engagement takes on an even more significant role. Imagine stepping into a new job in a new place with different customs, language, and work methods. Training helps you understand your role better, learn about the company's culture, and become skilled at using the tools and systems specific to that workplace.

Healthcare costs are going up. A report from PwC says that in 2024, the cost of medical care is expected to go up by 7%. This is because of things like prices going up and not having enough workers. This affects not only people without good insurance but others too.

Early retirement sounds great. Early retirement in a foreign country sounds even more exciting. But before you make any plans that can't be canceled, you will need a reliable and realistic action plan. We hope this article helps.

Exploring a new country as an expat comes with exciting discoveries and cultural nuances. And this is true for most aspects of our lives – even something as mundane as taking out the trash. From unusual restrictions to quirky regulations, here are some of the most peculiar garbage disposal laws around the world that expats should keep in mind.

To an expat, being granted new citizenship in a desired destination is the ultimate proof of stability. You can finally make long-term plans, buy a house, and maybe even run for office. But did you know quite a few countries reserve the right to have your citizenship revoked?

Studying abroad can be an incredible opportunity to learn, not only academically but also via experience. But this journey can be quite overwhelming. This is where overseas education counselors come in. They can help you manage student loans, find accommodation close to your university, purchase health insurance, and much more.

Moving abroad is a significant change, whether you are a “professional expat” or if this is your first relocation. One of the decisions you will need to make before moving is whether you will need help with it. So, should you seek help when planning your relocation or handle everything on your own? Here are some factors to consider.

As the global economy evolves, so do the demands for skilled workers in various industries. Many countries are experiencing shortages of skilled blue-collar workers, and as a result, they feature these occupations on their labor shortage lists. This presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to work abroad and contribute their expertise to a foreign land.

Living abroad has become an increasingly common experience for those looking for new opportunities, adventures, or personal growth. However, as expats immerse themselves in a different culture and navigate life in a foreign land, their identities also undergo a profound transformation. This raises the question: What is the impact of living abroad on one's identity, particularly in terms of national identity? To put this in simpler terms: does living in Thailand for ten years make you less British or American? And if so, is there a way to preserve your national identity while living abroad?

A new law was enacted in China on July 1, 2023. It broadens the scope of what is considered espionage and grants the Chinese government increased authority to address perceived threats to national security. Here's what it means for expats. 

Side hustling as an international student can be an incredible adventure, offering financial independence and personal growth in a foreign country. But there are several key things to consider before starting your job hunt.

As an expatriate, using your credit card for daily transactions is an essential part of your daily life. But what if your host country lacks a secure banking system? In this case, you will need to make sure you are aware of the potential risks associated with credit card use.

If you're currently 65 years old and living in the United States, you have another 20 years ahead of you — at least according to the US Social Security Administration. But here's the deal: this newfound longevity comes with some interesting twists and turns. Unlike your grandparents, today's pre-retirees and retirees are facing a totally different retirement landscape.

Last week, some countries in Northern Europe experienced smoke originating from numerous wildfires in Canada, following its widespread coverage over provinces and extensive regions of the United States earlier in the week. Although the dense smoke gradually diminished over the northeast during the past few days, the fires continued to present a significant hazard.

Last week, Belgium's Data Protection Authority ruled that the country must stop sharing the private financial information of Americans living in Belgium with the US Internal Revenue Service. What does this mean for American expats? Will this have an impact on their decision to settle in Belgium?

Spain is the latest country to join an impressively long list of countries that currently offer digital nomad visas. However, while a dedicated visa definitely gives nomads new relocation opportunities, things are not always as straightforward in practice as they look on paper. Let's dive in.

Moving abroad is a big decision, and timing can play a significant role in the success of your relocation. For many individuals, singlehood may seem like the ideal time to pursue an international move due to the lack of personal or family obligations. However, there are many factors to consider before taking the leap. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of moving abroad while single and provide tips on how to make the most of your singlehood while living in a new country.

In an increasingly interconnected world, where global mobility is becoming the norm rather than the exception, the concept of home has transcended geographical boundaries. People from all walks of life are venturing across borders in search of new opportunities, cultural experiences, and a better quality of life. These adventurous souls are known as expatriates or expats, individuals who choose to live outside their native country for work, education, retirement, or personal reasons.

Working as a temporary worker abroad can be an exciting opportunity, offering a chance to experience a new culture, develop professional skills, and earn money in the process. However, it's important to understand your rights as a temporary worker and ensure they are protected. Whether you're planning to work abroad for a few weeks, months, or even longer, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations that apply to temporary workers in your host country.

The Russian government recently took a significant step by introducing a bill in the parliament aimed at raising taxes for Russian citizens working abroad. The draft law, submitted to the State Duma, the lower house of Russia's parliament, proposes a notable tax rate increase for individuals outside Russia and subsequently losing their taxpayer status in the country.    

If you're looking to broaden your horizons by immersing yourself in different cultures and gaining work experience simultaneously, working abroad is an excellent option. Fortunately, there are plenty of overseas jobs available that do not require prior experience. These roles not only allow you to travel to new places but also improve your professional skills. By researching these job opportunities, you can narrow down your search and move closer to landing a job overseas.

Since the start of 2023, there have been over 150 shootings in the United States. Some of the biggest ones include the assault at a 16th birthday celebration in Alabama, resulting in four fatalities, the school shooting in Nashville where three children and three adults lost their lives, and the mass shooting in Kentucky that claimed the lives of four individuals.

Moving abroad with children, especially very young ones, can be very challenging. It can be tricky to find a school to enroll them in, but it can be even trickier to find childcare for kids who are not old yet to go to primary school. One parent in the expat couple could choose to become a stay-at-home parent, or the couple may secure subsidized public daycare or have to pay for costlier private daycare. Childcare is cheap or free in some countries like Italy and Chile, while it is less accessible or costlier in other countries like the US and Japan.

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but the challenges of adapting to a new culture, language, and lifestyle can also take a toll on an expat's mental health. In this article, we will explore practical strategies for identifying and coping with burnout as an expat, so you can stay healthy and enjoy your international experience to the fullest.

Living and working as an expat in a foreign country can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, rising rents in some of the world's most popular expat destinations are making it increasingly difficult for expats to afford to stay. Many are finding themselves priced out of the market and having to leave their adopted homes.

Many countries are grappling with a shortage of nurses, especially since the pandemic. Canada, the United Kingdom, Denmark and Switzerland are all such countries. They have eased their requirements and are running recruitment events in other countries that have traditionally provided many immigrant nurses, notably the Philippines.

The journey of an expat is often filled with excitement, adventure, and opportunities for personal growth. However, amidst the allure of new experiences, there is an unspoken challenge that many expats face - the sense of not belonging. As they embark on this global odyssey, expats must grapple with a complex array of emotions and challenges, which include adapting to new cultures, languages, and social norms.

Engineering is a profession that plays a critical role in shaping the world around us. From developing innovative technologies to building complex infrastructure, engineers are at the forefront of driving progress and development. However, in recent years, many countries have been experiencing labor shortages in the engineering sector, which has opened up opportunities for engineers to work abroad.

As Vietnam continues to emerge as a key player in the global economy, the country is facing a significant challenge - a shortage of skilled labor and talent. With a rapidly growing economy and increasing demand for skilled workers across a range of industries, Vietnam is struggling to keep pace with the needs of its businesses. In this article, we will explore the causes of Vietnam's labor and talent shortages, the impact on the economy, and potential solutions for addressing this pressing issue.

Work-life balance may look different for different people — and different professions. But the basic definition of work-life balance refers to the state of equilibrium between one's personal and professional life, which is even more important for professionals moving abroad for a better life.

According to a recent survey by HSBC, 45% of people planning to relocate to a new country feel lost about managing their finances after the move. This is an understandable concern: banking, paying taxes and transferring money between countries can be complicated. Below, we will look into the details of the HSBC survey and suggest an effective action plan for managing finances when moving abroad.

Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of studying abroad had already become a significant factor for many international students and their families, particularly in South Asia and Africa. These regions have seen a rising interest in studying abroad, but with limited financial resources, there has been a growing emphasis on the return on investment of such a decision.

For several months now, the Netherlands has experienced a series of public transport strikes due to the inability of unions and public transport operators to come to an agreement regarding salaries, work contracts, and employee workloads. In this context, we've decided to look into how strikes may affect the lives of expats and what they can do to plan their everyday life in the new circumstances.

Health insurance is an important consideration for expats living in Hong Kong, as the city's healthcare system can be expensive for those without coverage. In this article, we'll take a look at the options available for expats in Hong Kong and how to choose the right policy for your needs.

Accidents and emergencies can happen at any time, and it's important to be prepared for them, especially when living in a foreign country. As an expat in Hong Kong, there are a few key things you should know in order to handle accidents and emergencies effectively.

A dynamic, international city and meeting point for different cultures, Hong Kong is also one of the world's leading financial centers and a diverse study destination. Cosmopolitan and a fusion of many cultures, it is also a shopper's paradise and has excellent international cuisine, colorful nightlife, and vibrant festivals and fairs.