Moving abroad is one of the best things I've ever done. Its exhilarating and beautiful and the greatest way to introduce yourself to yourself. Having a few little tips in your pocket before you go will make it all that much easier, so without further ado here are my top 5 tips for moving abroad!
1. Have all of your paperwork in order before you move.
The last thing you want to have to deal with is arriving in your new home and getting stopped in immigration because you're missing a crucial piece of paperwork. Just make sure you're all set before you jet off into this beautiful planet we live on!
2. Have some of the local currency with you before you arrive at your destination
Be sure to convert some of the currency from wherever you were coming from to the currency of your new home. It seems pretty obvious, but with all of the other things you'll be busy with, this is an easy one to slip through the cracks. Having a bit of cash on hand makes things much easier, and depending on where you're moving certain businesses may not accept credit or debit cards.
3. Know at least a few key phrases in the local language
Again, this sounds obvious but its not something you'll be thinking of. I had it easy as Ireland is an English speaking country. I can't imagine moving to a country without having at least a little bit of the local language in my vocabulary before I arrive. It will make things much, much easier and less stressful for you!
4. Pack smart
As a 20-something college student, I didn't have the financial luxury of shipping over all of my belongings when I moved. Thus, I had to pack smart and relatively light considering I was making a long term move. I packed three suitcases. Don't worry about your furniture--its always easy to get inexpensive pieces to furnish your new home with. Plus-if you're moving to Europe a lot of rentals come furnished. Bonus!
5. Don't be afraid to try new things and meet new people
This has to be my most important tip, and that's exactly why I saved it for last. You will feel like a total fish out of water when you move abroad, but the only way to get over that feeling is to dive in the deep end! Join clubs, organizations, whatever your'e interested in. Talk to everyone! I met one of my closest friends here waiting in line to use the bathroom at a coffee shop. Because of my friendship with her, I met a large majority of my friends here in Dublin. People are much more kind and open to new friendships than I ever gave them credit for. Whatever you do--don't just sit at home. Get out there and do some things!
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xoxo,
Erin
Great tips!
ReplyDeletexoxo
www.cakeandcouture.com
thank you :)
DeleteI can’t emphasize enough the importance of the first rule. We become so mired in stressing over if we forgot to pack anything that we often forget the oh-so-important documents that we need to be able to board the plane. I guess it can’t be helped; after all, it’s going to be in your bag for most of the trip anyway.
ReplyDeleteRachal Dworkin @BestLawAssociates.com