What It’s Really Like to Live as an Expat
Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, offering new experiences, career opportunities, and cultural insights. Whether you’re relocating for work, love, or a fresh start, the expat lifestyle comes with both rewards and challenges.
From navigating a new healthcare system to adjusting to unfamiliar social norms, life in another country can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. But with the right mindset—and a little preparation—you can make the most of your expat journey.
If you’re considering a move to the UK or have recently arrived, check out our guide on how to adapt to life in the UK as a foreigner for practical tips on settling in.
The Realities of Expat Life: What to Expect
Culture Shock and How to Overcome It
One of the biggest adjustments for expats is culture shock. Simple things—like greetings, meal times, or even how people queue—can feel surprisingly different. In the UK, for example, candour in the workplace is valued, but it might take time to get used to direct feedback. Read more about workplace candour in the UK here.
To ease the transition:
- Keep an open mind and embrace new customs.
- Find expat communities or social groups for support.
- Learn the local language or dialect to improve communication.
The more you immerse yourself in local life, the easier it becomes to feel at home.
Everyday Life: Grocery Shopping, Housing, and Banking
Finding the Right Grocery Stores as an Expat
One of the first challenges of daily life abroad is figuring out where to shop. Grocery stores vary from country to country, with different brands, food selections, and price ranges. In the UK, supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose are popular choices, while expats seeking international ingredients often turn to specialty stores.
Renting a Home in a New Country
Navigating the housing market in a foreign country can be daunting. In the UK, renting often involves references, credit checks, and deposits, which may differ from your home country’s rental process. If you’re unsure where to start, our guide on how to rent a home in the UK as an expat walks you through the process.
Managing Your Finances as an Expat
Understanding banking, taxes, and investment opportunities is crucial when living abroad. If you’re planning to grow your wealth while living in the UK, our guide on how to invest in the UK as an expat covers essential tips for making smart financial decisions.
Building a Social Life Abroad
Making Friends as an Expat
Building relationships in a new country can take time, but putting yourself out there is key. Some ways to meet people include:
- Joining local clubs or hobby groups – Whether it’s a sports team, a book club, or a language exchange, shared interests create easy connections.
- Attending expat meetups – Many cities have expat communities where newcomers can network and socialize.
- Volunteering – Giving back to your new community is a great way to meet locals and make meaningful connections.
Social customs can vary widely. In the UK, for example, small talk about the weather is common, but discussing salaries or personal finances is often avoided in casual conversations. Understanding these nuances will help you integrate smoothly.
The Pros and Cons of the Expat Lifestyle
The Benefits of Living Abroad
- Broadened perspectives – Experiencing different cultures enhances your worldview.
- Career growth – Many expats find better job opportunities or higher salaries abroad.
- Personal growth – Living in a foreign country builds resilience, adaptability, and confidence.
The Challenges of Expat Life
- Missing home – Homesickness is natural, especially in the early months.
- Language barriers – Even if you move to an English-speaking country, accents and slang can take time to understand.
- Legal and financial complexities – Visas, taxes, and healthcare systems can be difficult to navigate.
Final Thoughts: Is the Expat Life for You?
The expat lifestyle isn’t for everyone, but for those with a sense of adventure, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you’re planning a short-term move or settling abroad for good, preparation is key.
For more insights on culture, identity, and life abroad, explore the Beyond Borders blog for expert tips and expat stories.
Your Expat Questions Answered
1. What is the biggest challenge expats face?
Adjusting to cultural differences and building a social network are often the toughest aspects of expat life.
2. How do I find expat communities in a new country?
Check social media groups, attend networking events, or join local expat organizations. Many cities have Facebook groups or Meetup events specifically for expats.
3. Is it hard to rent a home in the UK as an expat?
It can be challenging if you don’t have a UK credit history, but many landlords accept international tenants with proof of employment or a UK-based guarantor.
4. What’s the best way to deal with homesickness?
Staying connected with loved ones, establishing new routines, and exploring your new surroundings can help combat homesickness.
5. How do I financially plan for a move abroad?
Research the cost of living, set up an international bank account, and learn about investment opportunities in your new country.
Living abroad is a journey filled with new experiences, challenges, and growth. With the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life.