ON BECOMING AN EXPAT

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Submitted Date 11/21/2018
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On Becoming an Expat

What is an expat, you may wonder?  I’ve heard a few different opinions, like someone losing their citizenship, renouncing their citizenship or being forced out of their home country.  None of these are accurate.

An expat (expatriate) is simply a person that has decided to live full or part-time away from their native country.  These lifestyles come in all different sizes, shapes, goals and reasons.  I have been an expat for some time now, so I thought I’d share some observations for those who are considering or may revisit this option somewhere down the road.

DISCOVERY

I first became interested in the idea after working as a public-school teacher for 25+ years.  I knew I’d be leaving the profession soon and at the time, Obamacare wasn’t helping some of my decision-making on a retired teachers’ pension.

I can’t say that was my only reason. People embrace the lifestyle for different purposes. A new beginning, a charge of scenery, maybe even a sense of adventure and travel. I don’t think any of these are bad choices. The one choice I do regularly see advised against is leaving to get away from some “problem”. It may be viable at times, but too often the problem just shows up again wherever you put down roots. Not always a bad idea; but be brutally honest with yourself—it’s a big decision.

TRUSTWORTHY INFORMATION

I started doing some reading and researching online to see what others had done.  One of the things that really helped me in the beginning was a subscription to International Living. It’s a monthly publication, on-line or in the mail, that covers all things for the expat, or soon-to-be expat.  The publication always has great articles from contributing writers around the world sharing their experiences. The organization also offers other in-depth publications for advanced study and seminars you can attend to meet people living and writing about the lifestyle. You can Google the magazine and get started right away with some helpful information.

Another publication I have enjoyed and found helpful is Live and Invest Overseas. This publication and others like it will give you some options to consider from around the world. Usually after you read and do some research, most people seem to be attracted to a certain region or country for personal reasons. It’s also a great way to meet new friends. I have found ex-pats to be a friendly group of people who are willing to help you out and share experiences to assist you along the way of your new lifestyle.

THE LIFESTYLE

Once you select the area you have an interest in, it’s time to plan a visit.  You can always try on a place to see it it’s right for you.  Go for a week or two. Visit with the locals, talk to other expats you meet. Most people will talk to you about their travels.  Many places may require a new learned language, but English is spoken more and more often around the world today; only if it’s just enough to get by.

It’s fun to learn some of the local language. Most of the time you’ll find citizens like the fact you are trying to converse with them; they will even help you, so get out there and make some new friends while shopping and dining.

MAKING THE MOVE

Once you have a place in mind, now it’s time for a plan of action.  Do you need to retire or give your resignation?  Are you selling your home and all of your possessions, or will you come back and live part-time in your native country?  What about family and seeing the kids or grandkids? 

No one pattern for the decision to move abroad fits everyone; you can go all in like I did, selling my home and vehicles, or you can do a little at the time, maybe renting your home and keeping your major possessions in storage. It’s your call, you get to decide. And there’s nothing wrong with changing and revising your plan along the way.  I have lived in three different countries since I becoming an expat, and I know I’m not finished yet!!

DECISION TIME: STAY, LEAVE, REVISIT, OR TRY SOMETHING NEW

Finally, once you have lived abroad for a while, you’ll eventually make a few decisions regarding the future.  Is living abroad as an expat for you?  Are you satisfied with where you are, or maybe craving something new? As I said earlier, you can always adjust, especially if you haven’t purchased real-estate.  Most expats rent for at least a while, just to keep their options open.  You now have plenty of time as an expat, so don’t rush it. Enjoy your new journey; you’ll know when it is time to stay put or move on.  This lifestyle doesn’t have to be set in stone and the US dollar is strong to help make major decisions a bit easier.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Hopefully I’ve given you something to think about. Maybe you’re willing to give it a try. Maybe you know it’s not the life for you. That’s ok; whatever you decide, enjoy yourself and make these the best years of your life. I hope to see you out there one day soon!!

Comments

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  • Andrea Hope 5 years, 1 month ago

    Hey Gregory, I'm an American living in Poland (though I don't like the term 'expat', I generally don't like words that start with 'ex', but that's another story). I'm interested to check out these publications you've recommended! You mention you've lived in 3 countries, how much did you invest in learning the local language and how did you go about it? Did you just try to pick up things here are there or use a specific program?

    • Gregory Bernd 5 years, 1 month ago

      Hi Andrea, 3 all together, the US, Mexico, and the Philippines. My wife is from the Philippines, which made it easy for me, although I learned just a few causal words. We both tried to learn a little Spanish for Mexico. Again, just very light. It was a resort town we stayed in, but still found it at times a little tricky with the language barrier. We are considering another stay in Mexico, but I won't learn the language. Another resort type town, and google translator or something similar should get us by. There are tons of programs to learn a new language, but I never found one I was thrilled with.... The publications are great!!! thank you....

  • Miranda Fotia 5 years, 1 month ago

    Very good information! I would love to live abroad someday, maybe in Italy or Greece. Thanks for sharing!

    • Gregory Bernd 5 years, 1 month ago

      You're welcome!!! Give it a go!!!