Living abroad can be incredibly rewarding, but let’s be honest, it also comes with its own set of sacrifices. Like Kirsty Lamour and her kids mentioned during their interview, leaving behind all that is familiar can be unnerving and had to adjust to. Sure, we make many new friends, adjust to new neighbors, learn to trust strangers and speak new languages, we also find ourselves missing our own country, culture and family members.

Kirsty, Indy and Saffy Lamour are pros at living the expat life. In their podcast interview they talk about the beautiful things and the challenging things with their on-the-go lifestyle. If you missed their interview, you can listen to it here.

Whether you are making plans to live abroad for the first time or have done it for years, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience overseas.

#1 Make it a point to communicate and keep in touch with loved ones

The more time you let pass by without catching up with your loved ones, the harder it will be to relate and get reconnected. Don’t wait till you settle down or till the time is right. The time to connect with your family and loved ones is now. Involve them in your life as you are settling down in your new home. They will feel like they are helping you even if they are many thousands of miles away and you will feel like you are surrounded by people who care. Many times we hunger for normality during times of transition. Taking the time to schedule and invest in long distance relationships will keep you feeling more supported long term.

#2 Hold onto familiar things and familiar routines

Even if it costs a little more, make it a point to treat yourself every now and then with something that reminds you of home. This could be eating your favorite food, shopping for your favorite perfume, going dancing with friends, or drinking coffee exactly the way you like it. If you have a set routine at home, try and incorporate that in your life abroad as much as you can, especially as you settle down in your new place.

#3 Create a good support network at home and abroad

This is different for different people, but no matter where you live, there are always people who are in a similar situation. Find these people, attend networking events as much as you can, and don’t give up until you find a great group of individuals that you can connect with and confide in. It usually takes some time to connect. And sometimes the support system is online. Don’t let that dissuade you from finding those people who will be there for you – either physically or even just emotionally.

#4 Cherish your memories

It always feels so much more like home with photos of your family on the wall, your favorite sweater from grandma, or even your favorite spices to cook a meal with. Never underestimate how good your favorite coffee cup will feel in your hand or how amazing your favorite perfume will smell when you’re far away from the comforts of home. Hold onto to those familiar things to help you transition to a new place or a new country. These things, even if they are just material, give the feeling of familiarity and help us stay connected with our lives back home.

#5 Make mental and physical health a priority

Stay active and healthy. Find a yoga class, pack your running shoes even if you can only exercise in your room. Listen to your favorite music, continue to practice your faith even if you can’t do it exactly as you would be able to at home, and above all else, surround yourself with positive people who love living there.

And remember adjustment takes time. Don’t force it but also don’t let feelings of nostalgia and despair overtake an exciting time in your life. Change is always hard but remember that people everywhere are friendly and willing to help. You just have to ask. Living abroad is exciting and fun and a great way to get to know a people, a culture and a community deeper than a tourist.

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