“The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are.” – Samuel Johnson
Moving to a new country is both nerve wracking
and exciting. Possibilities of new opportunities, culture, people, environment
can be both scary and exciting. Cling to that excitement coupled with
nervousness as tightly as you can as moving out is a big step. Whether you are
venturing out for a new job or moving in with your significant other, further
studies, or better lifestyle, the following pointers are good to keep in mind.
Before the inevitable panic hits you, take a breather and read these, they
might not help you completely, but will aid in adjusting to your new
surroundings. The bottom line is that the more flexible you are, the more
you are willing to adapt to whatever comes your way and to change as the
situations demand, the easier and more enjoyable it is to live in a new
country.
I had to move from India to the UAE, post
marriage. For me, moving to a new country was infused with nerves and
excitement. Nerves, as I was leaving behind my family and moving out of my
comfort zone coupled with the fact that I couldn’t take everything I wanted to
owing to baggage policies.
To all of you, planning
to make the move - Take a deep breath, this will only hurt a little.
Returning to Your Native Country
The first and most important thing to keep in
mind while relocating is to be aware of the amount of time you would take to
travel back to your country of origin. You need to be mentally
prepared incase of emergency situations back at home, and whether you would be
able to be there when needed. Also when you realize that the country you
moved into is not where you would want to settle down forever, and that you
would want to move back to your country is both financially and emotionally
taxing.
Securing Housing
Having a home away from home is very important
for emotional and mental well-being. Initially staying in a hostel, someone’s
couch may suffice if you are a student or a bachelor. However it won’t be long
before you need a more permanent abode. Expecting an apartment with the best
view, and amenities may be an initial fantasy. It’s always good to not have
expectations of your new ‘home’, as that helps you settle in faster. Once you
know the city and neighborhood better, you could opt for a house of
your dreams.
Language and culture
Communication is
something we take for granted especially when we are in our own country, but
when you are in a foreign country you might not be able to walk right up to
someone and express yourself. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the
language. Since English is a global language, it’s easier to communicate.
However, it also depends on where you might be staying. Its important to also
gauge the cultural norms associated with certain countries. Certain norms may
be a culture shock to you. However it’s important to respect their
traditions and try to absorb their culture, or at least respect it and be
tolerant towards it. In UAE, it’s very common to see people praying on the
highways or in the middle of the road. During their holy month, they do follow certain
rules, which everyone has to adhere by.
When I moved to UAE, I
noticed that unlike in India the traffic rules are strict and are you are
liable for punishment if found guilty. I read up on traffic rules – do’s and
don’ts, which helped me immensely.
It would help to immerse yourself in local
culture. Knowing what could offend the locals is always going to be helpful.
Making New Friends is Tough
Ask me about making friends. I was initially
told that in the UAE it’s each one to his own, and that you cannot be too
friendly. It is very easy to make friends in your formative school /college
years. You were all the same age, participated in the same activities, and grew
up in the same area. You had classrooms and daily interactions to turn
strangers into friends. However when you move to a new country, it is
different. You are out in the real world and meeting people in a new
city means taking on a whole new approach to friend making. If you are
working at a company, then your friends will likely be your new coworkers. If
not, then the whole "friend thing" becomes a lot more complicated.
Don't retreat into a cocoon of loneliness and
despair over not having friends. I found some interesting ways to connect
with people. Internet topped my list; yes I know it’s the seediest place to
look for friendship to blossom. You could do a quick search for bloggers
writing about your area, you could try local meet up groups, expat get-together
etc. However make sure to meet up at a public space, for the first couple of
times. Joining a local organization catering to your interest or hobbies or a
skill you would like to cultivate is also a good option.
Travelling options
Make sure you know how to get around in your
city. Check out for options, different modes of transport and one that is
feasible for you. Travelling is Dubai is relatively easy thanks to public
transport, but at times it does pinch the purse. So I looked for other options
and viola, I found a better mode of transport to and fro from work.
When I first travelled by myself in public
transport I did a victory dance (in my head). It can be a daunting
task, familiarizing yourself with bus routes, carrying correct change
in foreign currency, or even buying a ticket or refilling your card.
However, just ask for help.
Always carry your travel documents with you
(Passport/visa).
‘Help is always given to those who ask for
it’ (Yes I’m a Harry Potter enthusiast)
Explore your neighborhood
Get used to the places around your home. Check
for nearby hospitals, police stations, malls, movie theatre etc. Take a stroll
and find out where the restaurants are around your area. Don’t be afraid to get
lost, you can always take a taxi home or ask for directions. This is the best
way to learn any new place, foreign or not. Figuring out where the locals
buy their groceries will save you tons of money and make you feel so much
more at home. Check out for deals/offers/sales in your nearby supermarket.
Check for nearby places where you can indulge in on weekends.
Stay connected to your Family and friends
Getting a local number should be your priority
number 1. Its important to stay connected to your family and friends especially
when you are in a new place and you need that support system Technology will be
an invaluable tool as you try to stay connected to friends and family, do
business, and get things done from your new country. With some adjustment and
planning technology will be your best friend. Check for Wi-Fi options both at
your residence and office, and also at nearby restaurants.
Pick one or two of your favorite items and take them with you
Having something that makes you feel warm and
fuzzy can help immensely. It could be anything from your favorite book to a
stuffed animal or your family photo album. Just anything that would remind you
of home. Carry that special something you cherish to remind you of home.
Give yourself permission to be homesick
It’s natural to feel homesick and to miss your
family and friends. Don’t be too harsh, allow yourself some time to heal and
get used to your new setting. Instead of ignoring your feeling, try recognizing
and accepting it, that will make it a whole lot easier for you. The first few
months in a new place will be scary, hectic, difficult and a whirlwind of
emotions. Always remember that you are experiencing something new
and wonderful no matter how much it makes you want to cry, scream, or rip your
hair out. You’re already here so just be grateful that you have the opportunity
to see the world and experience a different culture, something millions can
only dream about. Always bear in mind to be friendly and polite towards new
people and new cultures and you will have no problem fitting in and making tons
of friends.
Food habits
You may not necessarily enjoy the cuisine in
your new place. However do not make it obvious, as what you dislike may be of
immense cultural importance to the locals. Also, finding certain products that
you enjoy may be a little difficult initially. Try and find options to make
your food more appealing and appetising to your taste buds. Adapting
to a new country especially with a different cuisine will be very
difficult, as food is a primary need. However, being adventurous with food will
help you discover local cuisine and you may also end up liking it.
Great tips, thanks for sharing!
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