Living as an expat - What's to Know?

Are you an expat living and working in a foreign country? Or are you planning to become one? If you are any of those two, you are in the right place. No wonder there are so many expats out there. Everybody wants to travel the world, and when they do, sometimes, they fall in love with some distant country. So, why would you be a tourist, when you can actually live there. Many of us dream of changing our lives, turning a new leaf, moving to sunnier climes and enjoying better food, nicer people and cleaner air. Sounds amazing, right? Of course! According to a recent expat survey, 85% of expats feel that they made the right decision the moment they moved abroad. But, before you start packing your bags, here are some tips about living as an expat.

Organize Your Finances Before You Go

Before the actual moving day, you need to organize your finances. After you move, that will not be possible. This is especially important if you are looking for a job abroad. You need to open bank accounts or transfer your existing ones. You probably won't find your own bank where you are moving to, so it is fundamental to take care of all the bank documents you may need.Also, after you settle in, you will have to find a new bank to transfer your documents to. Do not leave everything for the last minute, or you will find yourself in a difficult situation.

Before you transfer your bank accounts and credit cards, set up a meeting with your current bank representative.

Learn the New Language

We know that it is impossible to master the rules of any language in a short period of time.Learning a language is a process that takes time. A couple of years at least. However, you probably do not have that much time. So, if you are relocating in Kuwait, you must at least learn some of the basics of the language. Focus on the most important parts of the language.Learn the alphabet, for example. It will go a long way in helping you learn the language later on. Moreover, you can take a couple of classes before you go, or some courses abroad after you settle in. But, be sure to learn the following expressions:

• Hello
• Goodbye
• How are you?
• Where is...?
• Thank you!
• Please help me!
• Do you speak English?

Join a Community Before You Get There

Another thing that will help you a lot when living as an expat is to have people around who can help you out. Luckily, we live in a time where anything can be done online. So, what are you waiting for? Simply search on Facebook or Forums to find a group or community as you are getting ready to go.This is crucial if you are moving to a distant country like Kuwait. In those groups, there are people who do not mind helping others. So, take advantage of that. Ask any questions you may have. Even if you need to know something simple, like where to buy cheap groceries or what a particular neighborhood is like. Someone always knows the answer or will lead you in the right direction.That will make your relocating with ease in Kuwait, or any other country, possible!

Pack Less

This one is crucial. Always pack less than you think you will need. So, if you are about to pack three or four suitcases for your move abroad, unpack them right now. It is not going to be fun carrying them with you at all times, while you are staying at different hotels or hostels and trying to find a place to call home. Also, it is nerve-racking trying to figure out how to pack your entire box in just a couple of suitcases. So, stop! First things first, see the weather forecast in your new place and pack accordingly.Pack for one season only. There are so many shops and outlets everywhere, so you will be able to buy more than you need. Moreover, if you do not want to leave all of your stuff at home, just pack it in boxes or let Easy Move KW do it for you, and your friends or family members can ship them to you after you settle in.

Do not waste your time and energy on packing and relocating your belongings. Bring only what is absolutely necessary and enjoy your time!

Figure Out How Your Phone Works

After you arrive, make sure to figure out how your phone works. Every country has different rules and laws when it comes to using phones, numbers and the internet connection.It goes without saying that you will need internet access and your phone for everything. From online dictionaries to making emergency calls. So, figure out how you will use your phone as soon as possible. The first we advise you to do is unlock your phone, or buy one that is already unlocked. Then, while you are at the airport, get a tourist SIM card.Those cards are really good for starting out. They have some free minutes and GB's that will help you until you settle in and get a permanent card.

If you have trouble getting a permanent SIM card because of paperwork or some other reason, get a regular prepaid card.

Go With the Flow

Okay, one thing is certain. You left your previous home because you wanted to have a better life in a new one. So, embrace the new life, culture, and people, and just go with the flow. After you arrive, try to meet your new neighbors, maybe you can organize a 'Meet Up' party at your new place. Moreover, after you settle in, go for a walk around your neighborhood or your entire city. Do whatever makes you feel good.Also, do not be afraid to ask questions. Most people will be more than happy to help you out. Good luck with living as an expat!

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