Are you planning on moving to a different country? If you are, here are some things that you need to know.
Safety.
You have to be careful no matter where you are in the world, but with some common sense you can stay safe. Don’t show off valuables, don’t go into bad areas, befriend the locals and don’t walk around late at night or get too drunk. Every country suffers from street crime problems, but avoid countries where there’s political upheaval or religious fundamentalist groups
Language.
Communication is something we take for granted, but when you are in a foreign country, you might not be able to walk right up to someone and express yourself or ask for life’s essentials, like where the bathroom is! You’ll want to study and practice the language as much as possible before you go. Also, taking intensive language lessons once you arrive is a great way to meet people.
Get A Job.
Many people find out that life isn’t quite as cheap as they anticipated and the savings goes fast, so you’ll have some decisions to make about earning money. Try to get a job, whether you decide to work in the local shop down the road, or get into tourism. Do your research and go for a low-risk consistent paycheck, not a venture that requires a huge up-front investment of time and money.
Medical.
It’s important to be aware of the medical services available in your area, and how they are rated for quality and consistency, as well as access to prescription medications..
Be Part Of The Community.
Fitting into the local culture is a challenge, but also a constant source of beauty, humour, and fascination. Be naturally curious and open to being outside of your comfort zone. Say hello and show respect to everyone, learn the local sayings, the customs, celebrate the holidays, make local friends, and even get in good with the police and officials.
Money.
Even when you’re living in another country, you are still expected to pay taxes as long as you’re a citizen and make income. You’ll probably also want to stay current on your health insurance, and many people conveniently forget to tell them that you don’t live there anymore, so it doesn’t cause complications. You can bank online and pay bills online these days, (discover more about foreign currency fixed deposit.) But you can also get your stateside mail sent to a relative or a post office box.
Stay Connected.
Technology will be an invaluable tool as you try to stay connected to friends and family, do business, and get things done from your new country. With some adjustment and planning technology will be your best friend. Get a local phone. Almost every bar and restaurant have Wifi, so iPads, laptops, and iPhones can all be used as mini computers to keep you connected. Applications like Skype, Netflix, WhatsApp, Internet calling apps, language translators, currency converters, and GPS make your life easier.
