Many of us have dreamed of one day retiring to an exotic location or a far away place. A chance to enjoy the second half of life exploring the country side, walking along the beach or even hiking in the mountains. We have worked very hard, built equity in our homes and sacrificed to fund our savings and now its time to reap the benefits our labor! So pull that vision board off the wall because its time to see those lists in Full HD!
The best way to make a new adventure successful is to plan ahead. Relocating to a new country can be exciting but stressful too if you are not prepared for the ride. Here are 5 great ways to plan for your exploration as you Move Abroad!
1. Sale! Sale! Everything’s for Sale!
Determining what items you want to take can be overwhelming. Living in one location for a long time can have you struggling with emotional ties you didn’t know you had. Should you ship Grandma’s antique clock, what about your collection of elephant statues or even your vehicles? Yes, there are a lot of things to consider but keep in mind what lies ahead. The needs here in the US may not be the same in your new abode. For example, you may not need a vehicle if you moving to a city that public transportation or walking is the standard. Homes feel like an extension of your family but they are truly one of our biggest investments. Deciding to sale can be draining but using a company like WeBuyHuntsvilleHomes.com can get you on that oversees flight fast! So grab your camera, take tons of pictures so you can keep the memories without all the stuff.
2. Documents? What documents?
Understanding the necessary documents needed to travel and live abroad is crucial. If you don’t currently have a passport, your first stop should be at the website of the U.S. Passports & International Travel. You can receive your passport, without any complications, in 6-8 weeks for under $120 . A passport is acceptable in many countries to stay for a vacation but if you extended the stay to permanent a Visa may be required. Most countries have tourism bureaus that give detailed info on living, working and becoming a citizen temporarily as well as permanently. Research the rules on the type of stay you plan to have so that logistic won’t interfere with fun!
3. What did you say?
Are you bilingual? Living in another country is the best way to learn the language but you may not want to go months without being able to order a couple of coffee. Take a moment and do a quick Google search on the official language of the country and determine if English is a prominent language. Familiarize yourself with some of the common phrases like, “Hello, Goodbye, Where is the bathroom” etc You can also use software or apps to begin adapting the native tongue before you arrive. Mobile apps that allow you to speak into them in one language and have it translated instantly. So don’t let the fear of a language barrier scare you just let it prepare you!
4. Can I give you a Raincheck?
Understanding the financial system of your new country is very important. You want to make sure you are able to receive your pension, maintain credit cards and convert to the currency accurately. Contact your financial advisor, financial institutions and credit card companies and share your plans to move abroad. They can help you to determine if you will need to quickly establish a monetary relationship with new companies or if your existing connections can accommodate you while your away. Talking about money may not be fun, but being far away without it is even worse.
5. Why are they Dancing in the Streets?
Living in a new country is exciting and allows the opportunity to become a part of a new culture. There will be unfamiliar holidays, traditions, celebrations and day to day activities that you will soon encounter. Learning about some of them before you arrival can help you adjust. Religious preferences, medical accessibility and taboos can be awkward or even dangerous if you don’t have a clue about maneuvering through them. Reading travel blogs, contacting local organizations and even asking friends can help you enjoy your new life instead of fearing the unknown.
Traveling abroad can be a wonderful way to enjoy your new life! Don’t hold on to stuff that defines the past when you have a chance to design your future.