Survive Living Abroad for First Timers

2 Parts:

Survival Tips When Living Abroad

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Living in a different country can be fun and hard at the same time. It's fun because you get to experience a culture which is very far from yours. It can also give you the chance to see great places and meet good people; people that can be helpful connections for you in the future. But it can also be hard and challenging, especially for first-timers.

We leave our own countries and settle elsewhere (permanently or temporarily) for several reasons. Reasons may include overseas schooling, immigration due to marriage, or just the thrill of experiencing life in a different country.

Adjustment is always the greatest challenge to anyone, especially for those who have never lived outside of their homeland. Learn to survive with these tips and discover the joys of living in a foreign country.

Before living in a foreign country, it is important that you know what to expect when you get there. Learn the basics of the language and do research about their culture so you won't get culture shock. Here are ways you can adjust once you have arrived.

1. 1
   Keep learning the language

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   Even if you prepared before you even left, it is important that you keep polishing your language skills when you get to the place. It can be a little frustrating when you can't even communicate with your neighbors. Always remember that communication is one of the most important ways to build relationships.

   

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2. 2
   Get accustomed to the food

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   Of course, you will definitely miss the food back home, but for you to enjoy and be completely adjusted to your living abroad, you must also learn to love the local food. You may want to ask family back home to send you some of your favorite foods, but it will still be best to get accustomed to the foods of the locals.

   

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3. 3
   Stay Connected

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   Missing your family and friends is normal. If you are missing them, you probably have 24/7 access to the internet. Call them or make use of the free chat messenger programs.

   

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4. 4
   Make New Friends

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   The first place to establish new friendships is your new neighborhood. Initiate an open line of communication with them. You may want to invite them over for a weekend lunch or dinner, or maybe a Sunday backyard barbecue. When you make new good friends, you'll start feeling more comfortable about your new environment.

   

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5. 5
   Learn to Accept Differences

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   Different countries have their own sets of norms and traditions, and you might be surprised that some folks break plates during weddings, or that kissing is a form of greeting for guys. You have your own culture too, remember, so it is best never criticize or laugh at what you see. It may take time before you finally accept that this is a different world from what you're used to.

   

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6. 6
   Discover and Explore

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   One way to survive and enjoy living abroad is discovering what else is fun about the place. You can start with local tourist spots. Once you have seen the local attractions, you may want to set an out-of-town trip as well.

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Always remember that no matter how well you have adjusted, you should never forget your roots; never forget who you really are and where you came from.

If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.

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