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 – How to Create a Peaceful Holiday for Everyone Without Stressing Out (Part I)

Dring… The phone is ringing.  “Hello darling, how are you?” Sally bites her lips. “Oh mum, I’m well thank you. And you?” “I was wondering when you’re coming for Christmas?” That was … [Read more...]

7 Truths To Help You Survive Your Partner’s Job Loss Abroad

Exactly a year ago, Peter lost his job. His European office closed a few weeks before Christmas. The whole family was in shock.    Back then, I wrote an article to share their concerns and offer … [Read more...]

Expats: Loneliness Can Make You Sick (And What To Do About It)

Mary was perfectly healthy. Then she got nasal drops containing a cold virus and was locked up in quarantine for five days. Mary was one of the 276 healthy volunteers in “The Common Cold Study”. … [Read more...]

The 4 Laws For Taking Care of Yourself While Taking Care Of Your Parents

When you move abroad as an accompanying spouse, you face two issues at the same time: 1. You feel like a child because you have to rely on your working partner to get a visa, open a bank … [Read more...]

Why Your Expat Relationship Is Out of Balance (and How to Save It Before It’s Too Late)

Move abroad and you'll get out of your comfort zone. Guaranteed. Throw in the mix a partner and (eventually) a few children. The whole system is shaken.   This might sound scary but it … [Read more...]

Busted: 3 Myths About Self-Care That Make Expats Gamble With Their Life

"Those who have no time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness" said Edward Stanley, a British statesman. But it’s not just exercise. It’s more. It’s what's called … [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...]

Expatriate Connection – A Unique Reflection On 2013

As 2013 draws to a close, let me take you on a journey: the story of an expat family through all the articles published on the blog this year.  All characters appearing in this work are not … [Read more...]