BeagleGal Posted August 18, 2010 Posted August 18, 2010 ... has anyone here done this? If so, what was the experience like, why did you decide to and where did you relocate to? For a few years now, I've thought about doing it and put that on the backburner when I was involved in a serious relationship. Now that I am single, I'm seriously thinking about it again. I'm planning a trip to Costa Rica later this year to see what its like. I've heard very good things about it, have read expats stories about moving and living there and so far, it seems like its been a positive experience for them. I like that Costa Rica is safe, not too far from home (canada) and I speak Spanish so that will help (parents are actually from Central America as well)... Anyways, if anyone has stories to share about having moved abroad, I'd love to hear them. Thanks! BG
denise_xo Posted August 18, 2010 Posted August 18, 2010 I've moved to four different countries (one European, one North American, two Middle Eastern), and I've loved it every time for different reasons. I still have at least another three or more destinations where I would like to live for a while. If you are the type who like to travel and explore, then definitely just go for it. My main general advise would be to have some patience and persistence for the first 6-8 months. My curve (and many others I've talked to identify with this) is usually a bit like this: - first two months: everything is new and exciting and you're having a great time - the following 2-4 months: this is when nothing's that new and exciting any more, and you start feeling a bit lonely because you haven't established a proper social base yet and you still haven't worked out practical stuff to the extent where you don't have to really think about it (basic stuff like transportations systems, employment bureaucracy, where do get the best deals when you go shopping, etc.) - after 6-8 months: this is when it really starts taking off, you are starting to feel at home, know how to make the most of the place, and have enough people to hang out with and establish proper friendships with. So the main point is not to get discouraged in that period in the middle when you might feel a bit disconnected and lonely. Going somewhere you know the language is a HUGE advantage, in so many ways. ENJOY
Author BeagleGal Posted August 18, 2010 Author Posted August 18, 2010 That's awesome - you've done your fair share then! I love travelling, haven't done too too much of it but plan to do more of it in the near future. Why did you move to these countries? For work? Great advise - will remember that! Thanks!
denise_xo Posted August 18, 2010 Posted August 18, 2010 That's awesome - you've done your fair share then! I love travelling, haven't done too too much of it but plan to do more of it in the near future. Why did you move to these countries? For work? Great advise - will remember that! Thanks! North America on an exchange programme/school, Europe for studies (uni), ME for work. What are you planning to do in CR?
Author BeagleGal Posted August 20, 2010 Author Posted August 20, 2010 Sorry, forgot about this thread! Not sure yet, I am looking into what I can do. Teaching English obviously would be something I can get into there although pay, I hear, kinda sucks. Not too worried about making money, and what I mean is, I am not concerned about making crazy cash or anything. I just really want a change of scenery and do something different with my life. I've been in such a rut for so long and with recent events the past few months, I really feel doing something like this for myself would be good for me. I have a cousin that lives there or was living there so I'll see if I can contact him somehow and see if he can help me out. North America on an exchange programme/school, Europe for studies (uni), ME for work. What are you planning to do in CR?
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