Tips On Settling Down to Another Country

It feels like it’s only yesterday since I left the Philippines and make a new life here in Australia.  I still remember finding myself sitting in the airport, tears keeps on pouring while waiting to board my plane. I guess sepanx kicks in and knowing it will take a while to see my family again. When I first arrived here, there are so many things running through my mind, not to mention the overwhelming emotions consuming me. I am excited that finally I will be with my husband but at the same time apprehensive because everything is so new to me. Yes, I may have been here before but only for a short stay however it’s entirely different when you move and live abroad permanently – you’re adjusting on a larger scale, back to square one.

In order to make my transition smooth flowing to my new country, there are things I did that really helps me to settle down. Hope it helps.

1. Do your paper work

Sort out first what paper works you need to the country you've move to such as medical card (medicare in Australia), opening a bank account, getting a tax file number among other things. Know what papers need to sort to the country you are moving to.

2. Learn & Adapt to your new culture
Moving overseas is like taking a giant leap into the unknown especially to a culture we almost know nothing about. To overcome culture differences, we must educate ourselves by reading, observing and check out the internet about the country we are moving to. We should also familiarize ourselves with the country's spoken language.

3. Cope with your homesickness
Even if I am with my partner or with friends, there are times that I will feel lonely and long for my family and all those things familiar. To cope with my homesickness, I keep in touch with my family and friends as often as I can, keep myself busy to divert my loneliness, find myself a new hobby (gardening & baking) and think of happy thoughts.

4. Socialize/Meet new people
This is the time to make new friends. Link up with friends of friends (like what my sister-in-law did, she introduce me to her set of friends), go to church, do volunteer work - do whatever to meet new people.

5. Explore
Go out and wander the streets of your new home. Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood and the city you live in. Be adventurous but at the same time keep yourself safe.

6. Get a job
I know my reasons to live here in Australia is to be with my husband. Though he provides for me but getting a job will not only offer me financial stability but also it gives me some sense of fulfilment and worth. I know it will be tough at first but if you are willing and persistent you will be able to find a job.