What no one tells you about relocating abroad
Relocating to another country is often romanticized — new culture, new adventures, new beginnings. But behind the glossy Instagram posts and weekend getaways, there’s a side to expat life that few talk about.
Here’s what no one tells you about moving abroad — and why being prepared makes all the difference.
1. The admin Is never-ending
From registering your address to figuring out healthcare and opening a bank account, the bureaucracy can feel like a full-time job. And every country does it differently. Knowing what to do, in what order, and with which documents can make or break your first weeks.
2. It’s easy to feel like an outsider
Even if you speak the local language, small cultural differences — how people socialize, how rules are followed, how long things take — can leave you feeling isolated. Integration takes time and effort, and you won’t always get it right.
3. Google doesn’t always help
Sure, there’s information online — but much of it is outdated, conflicting, or just plain confusing. Forums can be helpful, but they rarely give you a complete, trustworthy picture of what you really need to do.
4. Your first apartment might be a nightmare
In many cities, finding housing as a foreigner is tough — especially without local references, credit history, or knowing how the system works. You’ll likely face fierce competition, high rents, and fast-moving markets.
5. You’ll miss the smallest things
It’s not just family and friends — it’s your go-to grocery store, your local pharmacy, your favorite brand of peanut butter. The comforts of home are surprisingly hard to replace, and it takes time to rebuild routines.
6. It gets easier — with the right support
Despite the hurdles, relocation can be one of the most rewarding life experiences. The key is to remove unnecessary stress. Having a clear plan, local insight, and step-by-step guidance can transform overwhelm into confidence.
That’s why we built Expat Starter Kit
We created our guides to be the resource we wish we had — straightforward, practical, and human. They won’t solve every challenge, but they’ll make the journey feel a lot less lonely (and a lot more organized).