Becoming an Expat During COVID-19 | 5 Tips for Living Abroad
At times, circumstances compel you to move abroad and adapting to prevailing conditions in a host country as an expatriate is of the essence. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, life must continue. However, moving and settling abroad requires prior research so that you are well prepared and get on with life easily. Even with the easing of restrictions by governments, living abroad will require you to be well versed with legal and medical regulations and restrictions as well as other necessities. Below are great insights for expatriates living abroad.
1. Offer Value to Those around You
Other than your 8-5 or the business you are running abroad, having meaningful connections with those around you through volunteering or teaching a skill makes your life abroad fun and more engaging. Being a personal trainer, teaching others to play musical instruments, coaching a local team if you are a good sportsperson, or teaching English abroad with no degree in a non-English speaking country can come in handy. Identifying a niche, sharpening your skills, and delivering value will indeed aid you in building meaningful relationships, making the most out of your time abroad, and having an extra income source.
2. Online Communities
In the wake of COVID-19, finding, meeting, and interacting with people in a foreign country can prove to be quite a challenge. Some countries are still strict on movement, and locals may not be open to interacting with a foreigner in person. Being part of online activity communities can aid you in building relationships with people in your area without having to meet them in person.
3. Healthcare
Living abroad certainly requires you to have access to affordable, efficient, and quality healthcare. Being assured of medical attention when emergencies occur without incurring exorbitant costs is every expatriate’s dream. Having private health insurance can help you navigate medical situations when they arise.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Local Customs
Living abroad certainly implies that you will be subject to new cultures and norms. Being familiar with and adhering to local customs definitely assures you of a happier, more fulfilling stay abroad. While you can learn about the customs of a given country online, engaging with locals makes it more engaging, and it becomes easier to adapt to norms and even work remotely. In Singapore, for instance, a firm handshake followed by a slight bow shows a lot of respect when greeting someone.
5. Explore Different Areas
It is essential to familiarize oneself with residential areas, amenities, and recreational areas when living abroad. A self or guided tour through the streets of a given locality allows you to gain a firm grasp of your locality. With technology, expatriates are taken through virtual tours, making their stay more convenient. Traversing a city or locality in a given host nation provides you with an array of choices on residences and amenities.
Conclusion
The tips above will, by all means, ensure that your stay abroad becomes worthwhile and fulfilling. Leveraging tech tools to connect with those around you and being proactive overall will culminate in a wonderful stay abroad.
