Preparing For A Move Abroad*

*This is a collaborative post*

Moving house takes a lot of organising; research, viewing, applications, mountains of paperwork - and so on. And that only doubles when you move abroad, because not only are you having to move to a different town, but it’s an entirely new culture, and you have to get used to it. It can be exciting and fun, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Rather than jumping in the deep end - there are some ways to prepare for your new life.

Language

The biggest barrier you are going to face when moving abroad is communication. So get ahead by learning before you move. No one is expecting you to become fluent overnight, and it is always easier to learn a language when you live in the country. But knowing the basics will help you immensely. And it doesn’t have to be expensive - shop around, and you’ll find deals like how Delfin is offering reduced prices on their London courses. Or you can find a local college or community class that you can join.

Currency

There will be a significant amount of time before you stop checking every coin and note as you pay for things. And you’ll find it hard for a while not to constantly compare prices to the prices in your home country. The quickest way to become familiar with the new currency is to go to the post office and exchange some money. Make sure you get one of each coin, and the major notes, and just have them at home. You can devise a test for yourself and your family - which will help any children you have to get used to the new money too.

Food

Seeing as you’re moving to the country, it seems a shame if you don’t try the local food. Besides, once you move there might not be many chances for a roast dinner. Start experimenting with food either at home or a restaurant. Not only will you get accustomed to the food, but you’ll also hype up your excitement for your up and coming move.

Traditions

If you are moving to a heavily traditional country, it’s an idea to become acquainted with some of them before moving. For example, if you are moving to an Islamic country you might want to learn a bit more about the religion and the times of prayer. If you are moving to Thailand, you should become familiar with their near-worship of elephants, or how in Poland it is considered rude to pick at or refuse food. You will be the minority and you don’t want to offend anyone.  

If you are moving to a country that favors different cutlery, like chopsticks, it’s about time you learn, or you’ll find yourself stuck when you eat out.

Transport

Learn which side of the road to drive on! This isn’t something that should wait until after you have moved to learn. Also, have a look at the public transport available - UK residents are quite spoiled with regular trains to most corners of the country (even if we grumbled about it now and again.) 

*Contributed by Sam Jones

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