Ever been on the fence about whether you should buy that plane ticket and go places unexplored and just stay there? Or maybe you just want to go for a little while, a few months perhaps. I felt that way and so do many other people, but sometimes you just don't know where to start. That's okay neither did I, so I am here to share my reality behind the fun and colourful photos I share on Instagram and the reality behind that life.
So let's dive in and help you decide on that plane ticket.
Touchdown in New Horizons: My First Impressions Abroad
Ever feel like you're just not where you want to be? That was me, grinding through late night shifts and a lifestyle that just felt toxic. I needed a change, not just in routine but in scenery. So when friends who moved abroad talked about their experiences, something clicked. "Why not me?" I thought. I didn't consult many, just a couple of close friends and my family who, thankfully, supported my decision to move.
Choosing Asia or well Thailand wasn't about a detailed plan, it was more about the allure of adventure in a place where life was affordable and less stressful. With help from an agency called TravelBud and my guardian angel coordinator, I was on my way to Thailand, ready for a fresh start. I sold all my possessions, packed my life into three bags, and didn't just hope for the best, I was committed to make the best of whatever came my way.
Living abroad opened my eyes. I've always loved travelling and diving into new cultures, but living in them? That was a whole new level of experience. Meeting people from different backgrounds helped me appreciate what I'd taken for granted back home and see privilege in the everyday things I used to overlook. The freedom to walk safely at night, the new job opportunities, the chance to travel even more. Each day was a new discovery.
And the memories, oh the memories you will make. From island hopping to exploring ancient forgotten sites, these were adventures I could never have had if I'd stayed put. But it wasn't all postcards. There were some tough times, too, ones that could have been easier with better planning. So if you're thinking about making a move like this, do your research. Understand what you're getting into and make sure it's the right call for you.
Ready, Set, Plan: Organising the Essentials
When I decided to move abroad, the first thing I had to sort out was the visa situation. You see, most places need you to have a degree just to get a work permit. oj, and don't forget to pack your educational transcripts and maybe a police clearance, it totally depends on your nationality. For example, most African nationalities require a police clearance from any country they had resided in before Thailand in order to get a work permit. So check with your local embassy.
Packing was another adventure. My advice? Keep it simple. I brought way too many clothes that I ended up donating because of the heat.
Landing in Thailand during COVID-19 meant starting off in quarantine, which was quite the ordeal. But after that, I spent a couple of weeks in Hua Hin, bunking with other expats. It was a blast and honestly, some of those folks are my closest friends to this day years later. It made all the difference having people who were riding the same rollercoaster.
It wasn't all smooth sailing, though. Moving countries can get lonely. You might find that not everyone from back home stays in touch. It hurts, it really does, but it's part of the deal. Luckily, I had some true friends and my family to call when things felt too tough. They kept reminding me why I took this leap. Despite some hiccups in my first year here (visas, job loss, not planning this out well...), sticking it out and pushing through the fear made me realise how much I can handle. So finally, make sure you have a support system and that you can support yourself when you move.
House Hunting Season
When I first moved to Thailand, I learned quickly how important location is. My first house was way out in a rice field surrounded by water buffalo in rural Thailand, a good 11kms from the nearest convenience store, getting chased by chickens whenever I tried to hang up my laundry. lesson learned: always check the surroundings and make sure you have easy access to essentials.
The upfront cost can also catch you off guard. In Thailand, for example, you might need to pay two months' rent as a deposit plus the first month's rent when you move in. It's a bit different in every country, so it's something to look up ahead of time. A general rule is that majority of countries will have agents willing to help out expats to find a place, like Thailand has Property Scout or DD Property.
To make a place feel more like home, I brought a few personal items from home. It really helps. And when you're checking out a new place, visit it first, take some photos, and ask plenty of questions. It's better to know exactly what you're getting into from the start.
The Social Leap: From Homesickness to thriving in New Friendships
When I first moved to Thailand, the real challenge began when I found myself isolated in a small cottage among rice fields. It was just me, the endless green, and very few people to talk to, especially during lockdown. Imagine being in a beautiful place but missing those everyday chats with friends or quick coffee with family. Homesickness is real and that is why your support system is so important. I had my fellow expat friends who became my go-to. Despite the distance, knowing they were just a drive away made a world of difference. it was about keeping those connections alive that helped me through those quiet and lonely days. I still remember calling my best friend in tears because some really bad riots were happening back home, and I was so stressed about my family. She supported me the entire time and even checked up on me days after that call, so again support systems are essential. I honestly would have lost my mind and dried up my tears if it weren't for my friends here.
Picking up the local language was like unlocking a new level in a game, challenging but exciting. yeah there are apps that help you learn it but the best way to learn is straight form the source - the locals. the locals were incredibly supportive every time i tried to speak Thai. their smiles and encouragement made me want to keep trying, despite the mistakes. And then there's adapting to local customs, like how quiet everyone is on public transport - it's all about respect, something I learned to appreciate more with each passing day.
After moving to Bangkok, I discovered a vibrant expat community. I remember feeling overwhelmed at my first social event, but meeting Fauzia, who was so welcoming, really changed my perspective. She reminded me that everyone was just as new and eager to make friends as I was. Events form
InterNations and other meet ups were goldmines for advice and friendships. It's all about showing up, being yourself, and letting the connections happen naturally.
The Real Deal on Living Abroad: My Take on the Good and the Tricky Bites
The Good Stuff:
- Getting Real with the Locals: There's nothing like hitting up a local festival or event to really make you feel like you're part of the community. It makes the new country feel more like home and seriously helps with any homesickness. Plus, doing this stuff with friends? best memories ever.
- Language Lessons: Picking up the local lingo? Definitely a must-do but also a real challenge. It's crucial for getting by and really digging into what the culture's all about. Why is this a good thing? Because you will look back and laugh at your mishaps with the language.
- More Bang for Your Buck: Over here in Thailand, your money just goes further. It's easier on the wallet day-to-day compared to back home, and it's somehow easier to land a job here too - something easier to land a ob here too - something my buddies back home are struggling with.
- Nature Like No Other: Living in Asia has let me check out places that blow your mind - lush landscapes in Thailand, the stunning peaks in India, you name it. Seeing these spots in real life beats any screen saver.
The Not-So-Good Stuff
- Out of Sync Back Home: This one's tough. The more you change and grow, the less folks back home seem to get where you're coming form. It can feel like you're living in a completely different world - which, well, you kind of are. But that's also why the new friends you make here are gold.
Final Takeaway
Living abroad is more than just a scenery change - it's about changing your whole life. Sure it's not always easy, but the new sights, sounds, and buddies are totally worth it. Roll with the highs and tackle the lows, and you find that each experience just adds more to your story.
Moving abroad was the best decision I made in my life. So if you have any questions or curious about something then ask me a question! Check out our socials or leave a comment!
Comments
Post a Comment