Living in a foreign country where you are not familiar can be challenging. This is because you have to cope with various challenges in addition to the new environment. You have to manage your finances well if you are to cope. It is very helpful if you know of different ways that you can live well for less while abroad. Below are suggested ways that you can maintain a happy lifestyle while remaining comfortable.
DO NOT LOCK YOURSELF AWAY
First, you must ensure that you do not spend most of your time alone. There is always the temptation of staying indoors most of the time especially if you are living alone. It is good to start dealing with the culture shocks right away. Staying indoors does little in helping you adjust to your new environment and deal with challenges. Step out into the streets and familiarize yourself with the new place.
A tip that always works irrespective of where you are is the use of gifts. Be friendly, reach out to your neighbors, and introduce yourself. Bringing small gifts and baked foods are always a good sign. Try your best to socialize and get to know people around you. Your new made friends will help you practice the country’s language and culture. Learning the do’s and don’ts of the people will help you avoid embarrassing situation
Smile at serving clerks and other attendees when you go out to shop. This will make them warm up to you and make things easier for you. You will make friends easily rather than spending time alone in, self pity. Once you have become familiar with people, feel free to invite them over to your place. Do not refuse invitations too. Exchange stories and experiences in various sectors. This friendly atmosphere exposes you to better opportunities in the new country.
ALWAYS GIVE FEEDBACK
The fact that you are in a foreign land always brings homesickness. To deal with this ensure that you communicate with friends and loved ions back home. Make use of internet services to keep yourself close to your people.
There is no excuse for not keeping in touch with people back home. You can always skype if you want to see their faces while communicating. It is not difficult to achieve this provided you have internet access. Even in the absence of internet access you can always write back home and look forward for return mails.
KEEP YOURSELF BUSY
A hobby is a great coping mechanism in strange environments. You will never go wrong with an activity that you enjoy doing. If it is cycling, swimming or even gardening that thrills you then get into it. Nothing gives more comfort than a familiar activity. It restores the sense of being in control even in foreign lands.
Do not drop your favorite pastimes just because you are in a foreign land. Listen to your favorite jams, dance and sing if that is your thing. Neglecting these can make things appear more strange and stressing. You can always learn new hobbies and from your neighbors and new friends. The good thing is that in doing all this, you hardly need to spend anything.
