Tips For Simplifying Your International Move
Posted on: 13 November 2015
Making a move to another country is a big deal not only because of the change in environment, but also the change in culture. The first few days following an international move can be a flurry of confusion, changes and new discoveries. If you've just found out that you're going to be moving, this is the time to start getting ready. Here are a few things that you can start working on now to help make the transition a little bit easier.
Speak Easy
One of the first things you should do when you find out that you're going to be moving to a new country is to start learning the language. The more words you know when you arrive, the easier it will be to navigate and settle in. After all, getting around in a new country is going to be difficult if you don't speak the local language. There's no guarantee that you'll find someone who speaks your language and can help translate. If you're from an English-speaking country, translators may be easier to come by, but it can still be a challenge.
Learning the language now will help you feel at home when you get there. By knowing at least the basics, you'll be able to hit the corner market for things for dinner or even introduce yourself to your neighbors. And, when you address the locals in the native language, it may even help them to feel more accepting, because you're making an effort.
Make Yourself at Home
It's always easiest to adapt to new surroundings when you bring familiar things. Whether your first few days in the country will be spent in a hotel or directly into your new home, make sure you have a few personal things you can put up right away. Some of the best things to bring with you include your favorite family photos, the coffee mug you prefer to use and any other items that mean a lot to you.
The sooner you make your new place feel like home, the easier the transition will be. Whenever possible, arrange with the moving company to deliver your belongings on the day that you're due to move in to the new house. Then, you can arrange your travel plans so that you're arriving as close as possible to that day.
Get Around
Speaking the language and personalizing your surroundings will definitely help, but if you feel lost every time you go out the front door, it's never going to seem like home. Spend some time getting to know the neighborhood. Get a street map of the area so that you can explore. Make sure you know where the local grocery store, farmers market and coffee shop are. Finding these places also helps you meet people, so get out there and mingle as much as possible. Over time, the neighborhood will become familiar.
Go Public — With Transportation
One of the best ways to become a local is to travel like the locals do. Before you can do that, though, you'll need to explore what your local public transportation options are. Make sure you understand how the transportation system works before you jump in, otherwise you run the risk of confusion derailing your travel plans.
No matter what those first few weeks bring for your international move, remember to focus on the big picture. It isn't likely to be perfect right away. Luckily, with the help of a professional moving company such as Affordable Transfer Co Inc. and the tips in this article, you'll be able to focus on the mechanics of the transition and make yourself at home in no time.
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