Moving overseas is often envisioned as an adventure, but it’s crucial to acknowledge that settling into a new culture presents challenges.
One man recently recounted what he considers his biggest misstep when relocating from London to Nafplio, Greece, in 2010. Daniel Carrizalez shared his experience on his YouTube channel (@MovingForward), highlighting how neglecting early networking contributed to feelings of isolation.
As he described it, “Apart from my wife’s family, I arrived with no existing connections—no friends, no support system whatsoever.” He admitted that his preference for avoiding social media platforms like Facebook initially prevented him from joining expat groups.
Following the move, Daniel became a stay-at-home father and worked remotely as a music composer, selling his compositions online.
“While this lifestyle may appear appealing, it inadvertently limited my opportunities to connect with others over the years,”
he explained.
Building relationships proved difficult while working from home.
Daniel now strongly recommends that individuals seeking to relocate abroad proactively engage in networking before and after their move, suggesting platforms like Facebook groups as a valuable resource.
“A common pitfall is self-imposed isolation – often stemming from language barriers or difficulty integrating into the local community,”
he cautioned.
He emphasized the importance of reaching out to establish connections with people facing similar circumstances.
Daniel discovered an unexpected avenue for connection through his YouTube channel, where he shares insights on life as an expat in Greece.
“Creating this channel has been transformative; it’s opened so many doors and allowed me to connect with individuals worldwide, both online and within my local community.”
He stated that his channel led to opportunities he wouldn’t have encountered otherwise.
His experience echoes those of others. Another expat recently shared a more nuanced perspective on life in Spain. Geo, residing in Malaga, expressed her affection for the region but acknowledged the drawbacks stemming from its popularity as a tourist destination.
“There are definitely aspects I find less than ideal,”
she admitted.
During peak season, finding seating at pubs and restaurants becomes exceptionally challenging due to high visitor volume.
Here’s a summary of key takeaways:
- Prioritize Networking: Don’t underestimate the importance of building connections before and after moving abroad.
- Utilize Online Resources: Consider joining Facebook groups or other online communities to connect with fellow expats.
- Seek Local Connections: Actively search for individuals in similar situations – whether it’s through shared professions, hobbies, or interests.
- Be Aware of Trade-offs: Recognize that even idyllic locations can have their downsides (e.g., tourist crowds).
