The challenges of studying abroad
Many people dream about studying abroad, since it opens up so many doors. Not only is it possible to meet people from all countries and cultures, but it also changes the way you see...
Category: Expat Advice & Stories
Living abroad – to see or not to see?
Once you’ve unpacked, found a job, worked out the transport system, and all the other things that come with settling in to your adopted country, you can finally start enjoying your new surroundings. A...
Do the Dutch really only have one cookie per coffee?
On my first year studying in the Netherlands, all the international students had to attend the basic Dutch courses held by the school. It was one of my favorite courses because I could meet...
Getting excited about the little things
It’s a common expression, ‘you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone’, it also always makes me sing Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell, but that’s another story. In this context it reminds me of...
Feel the Dance
“El tango es tan antiguo como el hombre, nació con el primer dolor del alma.”“The tango is as old as mankind, it was born when the soul first felt pain.” R. Ostuni Most cultures...
How to cope with learning Chinese – Lessons from a native speaker
Since we’ve been together, my Dutch boyfriend has faced a challenge which he calls a long-term mental torture. This torture has nothing to do with me, actually, I don’t take him shoe shopping or...
Learning to wait for service
Spain is well known for many things – it’s amazing food, beautiful beaches and friendly people. One thing it is not known for, however, is efficient service – this is especially true during summer....
Lessons from a Spanish Landlord
Do you remember when your parents would tell you about that old car they had to drive when they were younger? You know, the one with the different colored door and that just needed...
Overcoming culture shock
Before I moved to Madrid in January this year, I had little knowledge of Spain, its language or its culture and had previously only visited on the obligatory family beach holiday to Majorca. To...
Have a family and want to move abroad? Be prepared for high costs
One of the main challenges of moving abroad is the financial preparation involved – especially when taking family along. To help expats prepare for their move, in April of this year, The Guardian and...
