As a British Expatriate living in Finland for 21 years,I am often asked was moving abroad a difficult process to go through..Well through my own experience,moving abroad is a big step that should not be taken half heartedly nor lightly.There are many issues to bear in mind and take in to consideration.You should do as much research in order for you to make the right decisions.After all no one wishes to move to a new country,then find it was a big mistake.
Obviously the first the most important decision to make,is where and what country you would like to move to.Research alone will not answer all of your questions.This is in part, due to the many unknown factors and questions arising from living in a foreign country.
Take a Fact-Finding trip to the country you wish to live in
The best way to find out if the country you wish to move abroad to,is to travel and take a short break in the country first.I had traveled to Finland many times when serving in The Merchant Navy.So moving to Finland was not a complete shock to me,culturally,climate wise and the Finnish Lifestyle.So a fact finding pre- trip was not so vitally important to me.
For those people who have worked previously or studied abroad,they have an insight into the countries way of life,culture,language and customs.They also know that after their contract or studies have finished,they can return back to their home countries.But for those people who are looking to move abroad to settle down and make a new life,it is crucial to scout the country of your choice before committing yourself to moving abroad.
try to get an insight of what Daily Life is like
The benefits of taking a fact finding trip,allows you to experience first hand what daily life is like and gives you some idea as to what your new life abroad would be like.You will get to know the local transport system,where the important offices are for Expatriates will also be able to make an informative decision as to the better areas to live.No one really wishes to live in an area of high crime or on a busy,noisy road intersection.It also gives you the chance to make your first contact with the local people and contacts are invaluable
Planning your trip and Itinerary
For any successful trip,it is important to plan your activities and itinerary.Find where the local banks that you will be using,better still call in to the bank and discuss what services they can offer you.Find as much information on the Local Health Care services offered and where they are situated.If you plan purchasing property,find if there are any restrictions and the nicer places to live without being exorbitantly priced.If you plan to rent property,visit several rental agencies to see what they have to offer.Make sure to find out if it is easy to connect a telephone and all necessary utilities.
Try to imagine yourself living in the area or country you have chosen.I found that what I actually missed living Abroad in Finland were the small everyday things I took for granted when I lived in England.Look at your own way of life as it is now and try to find out if you can still pursue your interests where you wish to move to.If you are mad on downhill skiing,there is little chance that you are going to be able to pursue that sport in India.Be observant of local foods.I myself miss dearly Fish and Chips,common place in the UK,but no where to be found in Finland.Check school if you have children!What are the requirements for entry?
Try to listen and learn from the local life
Most important is to try and listen and observe the life of the Local Inhabitants of the country you wish to move to.Explore their local culture,customs and traditions.Mix as much as possible with the locals,again contacts can become invaluable.Try to find any Expatriate clubs,societies or events that are held near to where you want to settle down.Try to meet some expatriates,as they can provide you with valuable information on what it is like living abroad as a Foreigner.
And finally,if you do not know the local language,in my case ,The Many Finnish Languages,pay attention as to ho the locals respond when you are speaking in your mother tongue.I personally learnt alot from this.Some locals are only to keen to speak a foreign language if they can.Others may at times take offence and expect you to speak their language
Above all enjoy where ever you go,take care at all times when you travel and hopefully you will find the country and place you are seeking.If you are like me you will never return home and live abroad as a British Expatriate in Finland
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