Moving abroad is one of the most life-changing experiences a person can have. It brings excitement, opportunities, and challenges that require adaptability, curiosity, and an open heart. When we decided to move first to England and then to the U.S., my family and I embraced the experience with the mindset of fully immersing ourselves in the culture, customs, and even the quirks of each new home. We learned to live in the present, appreciating each chapter of our journey without clinging to nostalgia or comparisons.
Here, I’ll share some tips that helped us transition smoothly into our new lives abroad. These practical and personal insights can guide anyone considering or navigating life as an expat.
1. Accepting the full package of life abroad
Every place has its unique characteristics – some we might love and others that challenge us. When we moved to England, the damp, chilly weather and unfamiliar food became part of our daily life. Later, in Arizona, it was the scorching summer heat. Instead of longing for what we left behind, we chose to embrace each experience for what it was: an opportunity to learn and grow.
The key is to approach the move with an open mind. For instance, while England taught us resilience and adaptation, Arizona brought new rhythms, like appreciating early mornings to beat the heat or discovering local foods and customs that felt surprisingly familiar.
Related posts:
- From Italy to the UK to Arizona: a journey of adaptation and growth
- How to adjust to the different weather in Italy, the UK, and Arizona
- Helping my kids adapt to schools abroad: navigating bureaucracy and challenges
2. Building connections in new places
One of the most important steps in settling into a new country is building a support system. For me, this started with two key places: libraries and schools.
- The local library
Libraries were the first places I explored after moving, both in England and the U.S. They became my sanctuary – a place to read, join book clubs, and participate in community events. Being part of a book club in England was transformative; it helped me practice English, meet locals, and share my thoughts in a supportive environment. It was something I had never experienced in Italy, and it opened doors to friendships and cultural exchanges.
- Volunteering at school
When we moved, I was determined to understand the education systems my children were entering. Volunteering at their schools gave me an insider’s view of their academic environment and allowed me to contribute meaningfully. In England, I started with simple tasks like making photocopies for teachers, but I gradually became involved in the school board. This experience not only gave me confidence but also deepened my understanding of the expectations placed on my children.
In the U.S., my involvement continued, and it became a gateway to building friendships and strengthening my connection with the local culture.
3. Work and professional growth
In England, I returned to my profession as a nurse, working in both a hospital and a care home. These roles offered a glimpse into two different ends of life – the fragility of newborns in a Special Care Baby Unit and the dignity of elderly care. While I didn’t continue working as a midwife due to language concerns, these experiences gave me a sense of purpose and integration into the community.
If you have professional skills, consider how you can apply them in your new environment. It is an excellent way to connect with people and regain a sense of identity in a foreign land.
4. Staying active and engaged
Hobbies and physical activities were another lifeline for me. In Arizona, I joined a gym, where I not only stayed fit but also made lasting friendships. Similarly, I started playing tennis and found that the sport created a unique bond with others. There is something special about connecting over shared passions, whether it’s through doubles matches or post-game conversations.
In England, I participated in walking groups – a simple yet powerful way to combine socializing with exploring the beautiful countryside.
5. Learning and growing through classes
Taking local classes helped me immerse myself in the culture while learning practical skills. In England, I attended evening English classes where I met people from various backgrounds. These classes often included cultural tips, which were invaluable for understanding British customs and etiquette.
In Arizona, I joined a gardening class tailored to the desert climate. It taught me not only how to nurture plants in challenging conditions but also how to adapt and thrive in an unfamiliar environment.
6. Embracing volunteer opportunities
Volunteering became a cornerstone of my integration process. Whether it was at schools, libraries, or local centers, these experiences allowed me to contribute to the community while learning from it. For example, volunteering in Arizona introduced me to people who shared their stories and offered insights into American culture.
7. Building relationships with neighbors
Our neighbors have been an invaluable source of support and friendship. Both in England and the U.S., we have been fortunate to live near people who welcomed us, shared advice, and helped us navigate local customs. Whether it was borrowing a ladder, sharing a meal, or simply chatting over the fence, these connections enriched our experience and made us feel at home.
8. Keeping an open mind
Moving abroad requires a willingness to accept differences without constant comparisons. It is tempting to measure everything – food, habits, or traditions – against what you know, but doing so only creates frustration. Instead, I have learned to embrace the best aspects of each culture and adapt them to my own life.
For example, while I initially missed Italian cuisine, I grew to appreciate the variety of British pies and American barbecue. Keeping an open mind allowed me to enjoy the unique flavors of each country without feeling like I was losing a part of myself.
9. Avoiding the comfort zone of expats
Although we have had wonderful Italian friends abroad, we made a conscious decision not to limit ourselves to Italian communities. Immersing ourselves in the local culture was essential for truly experiencing life abroad. We wanted to challenge ourselves, learn from others, and avoid the risk of becoming too insular.
This doesn’t mean avoiding people from your home country – it is about finding a balance that allows you to grow while staying connected to your roots.
10. Giving yourself time and grace
Finally, one of the most important lessons I have learned is to be patient with myself. Adjusting to a new country isn’t always easy, even for someone as extroverted as I am. There were highs and lows, moments of excitement and times of homesickness.
Allow yourself the time to adapt, and don’t be too hard on yourself if everything doesn’t fall into place immediately. Listen to your emotions, celebrate small victories, and accept the journey for what it is – a process of growth and transformation.
Living abroad has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. It is taught me resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of seeing the world through new eyes. Each chapter – Italy, England, and now America – feels like a unique life within a life, filled with lessons and memories that have shaped who I am today.
Thanks for hanging out with me today!
See you next time.
Valentina
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