Six Disturbing Experiences When Going Back Home For A Holiday

It’s been a while since you've set foot in your home country but this year, you’re going back. For a holiday. Three weeks of jam packed program trying to optimize everything and please … [Read more...]

2014 – A Year in Expatland

End of last year, I took you on a journey: the story of an expat family through a compilation of all the articles published on the blog. The suspense was at its peak: we left this family in … [Read more...]

Difficult Expat Conversations – A Hidden Factor Makes You Lose Your Balance When Planning The Holidays (Part III)

There comes a time in every trailing spouse’s life when the thought of the holidays makes you want to... well… hide. Why? Because holidays mean even more work and … [Read more...]

Difficult Expat Conversations – The One Thing You Can’t Avoid To Create A Peaceful Holiday For Everyone (Part II)

Sally’s in a tricky situation.  For the last few weeks, her parents have been chasing and pressuring her: “When are you -- and the kids -- coming back for Christmas?” Sally is agonizing. She’s … [Read more...]

Giving And Receiving Gifts – The Secret Rules For Expats

Ever wondered what to bring when invited for the first time to a local family in your new host country? Do you remember this awkward feeling - a mix of joy and constraint - when receiving a … [Read more...]

Holiday Season Abroad – Tempted To Give Up Your Traditions?

The traditional holiday season is approaching quickly - Thanksgiving, Sinter Klaas, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, just to name a few. You find yourself hesitating. You won’t go back to … [Read more...]