Who is Chris Way?

• Meet Chris Way, who left the UK going to Spain when he was 17 years old. He has lived all over Asia for longer periods of time. His base is India, which he doesn't particulary like, but where he founded a charity: Reality Tours and Travel. 

What are your motivation and experiences emigrating from the UK to India?

What do people need to know about you to understand your emigration story?

• For me, it’s been quite simple. I didn’t want to live in the UK and I didn’t want to have a “normal” 9 to 5 lifestyle with a family. I’ve been interested in travel since going to Spain at 17 years old for several months as part of a school exchange program; the different language and culture as well as the warm weather was something that I wanted to experience more. The search for something different has been with me since then.

Was there a specific moment or event that inspired you to emigrate?

• As mentioned above, I was always going to emigrate somewhere, but I chose India having spent several months there in 2002/2003 doing volunteer work and then having the idea to return there to start a business and charity.

How did you prepare?

• Having travelled there already and without having any family commitments, it was pretty straight forward. I just bought a ticket and went! When there, I had to figure out how to start a company as a foreigner, which was a little complicated, and then having done this after some other research, my business partner and I started doing tours of Mumbai.

What is your life like, what kind of work or activities make you feel you are really “at home” in India?

• My life now is very boring. In my first stint in Mumbai, I was quite involved with the expat community and used to organise frisbee every Sunday, but having returned post covid, I very much keep myself to myself, focusing on work and getting the business and charity back on its feet. 
• Now, there’s little that makes me feel really “at home” (whatever that means now). Similar to home, I try to exercise and eat well, although unfortunately the food is not really to my liking; too many spices, too much oil and little and very poor quality meat products.

How is your daily routine different from that in your home country?

• It’s been such a long time now, but I suspect that I work harder than what I would do in my own country. But I think that’s more because I run my own business as opposed to being in a different country. As an organisation we used to work Saturday as many Indians do, but we now only work Monday to Friday. 

Do you already have an idea about the future?

• I’m planning to leave Mumbai in the not too distant future and escape to a more tourist friendly country like Thailand or Cambodia where there is less pollution and I hope to have better work life balance. I would continue to work remotely from there.

How about the culture and social interactions in India?

What was your first encounter with a local?

• One of the first people that I met actually was my business partner. He served my table as a waiter and then the next day, I was in the park (where everybody was playing cricket) and he recognised me and asked me to join. It was fascinating spending time with somebody completely different, and he didn’t drink so we used to go for walks, chat and listen to music from a radio together. 

Do you have any tips for meeting people?

• Generally, and this doesn’t just relate to travel, I think it’s easier to meet people when you do something that you enjoy, like sports, because you meet people without trying. I’ve never liked the expat meet-ups, even if there is alcohol involved, because you end up telling your life story continuously, although I completely understand why.

What is the best or most inspiring thing about your emigration?

• For me, the most rewarding thing is creating an organisation, employing local people, helping young people in the poorer communities, and seeing both sets of these people thrive. 

What is the funniest or most painful misunderstanding you have experienced because of language or cultural differences?

• I can’t think of anything in particular.

Have you adopted local customs?

• My English when speaking in India changes so that people understand me, I have adopted the head wiggle occasionally, but otherwise I don’t think I’ve changed much.

How do locals react to the fact that you now live and work here?

• Indian people love to stare so I still get a bit of that, but generally it’s fine. Certainly I’ve never had a problem with people here and it’s either big smiles but mostly indifference. 

What is your favorite local tradition/festival?

• I don’t like many of the festivals because the music and loud fireworks often go on until late in the night. I can understand why somebody new to India might enjoy Diwali or Holi, but for me it’s no longer of interest and it’s just nice to have a day at home relaxing. 

Are there customs in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or had to get used to?

• Not really. 

How does friendship here differ from how it is perceived in your home country?

• I don’t have many friends but there is certainly less abuse (“piss taking”) here in India, compared to the UK. This is nice in some ways.

What were the challenges while emigrating to India? 

Have there been times when you had doubts about your choice, or what disappointed you?

• I’m glad that I left the UK, but I do miss the Latin culture and I’ve seen a lot of Latin America. I speak Spanish well and when I’m in a Spanish speaking country, I feel at home. I don’t regret coming to India, and although I run a tour company, I’m not in love with India in the same way that many foreigners who come to India, do. 

In retrospect, what would you have liked to know about India beforehand?

• I had a pretty good idea what I was getting myself in to, having been here before. 

What would you do differently next time and what would you want to give others with the same idea?

• I would learn the language. Even though you can get by with English, I’ve missed out so much by not speaking Hindi. I keep telling myself to learn it, but keep putting it off

What was the biggest culture shock?

• It wasn’t a shock but I still find it difficult to jump queues and bargain in markets. Crowded trains in Mumbai make crowded trains in the UK feel very spacious. Every day feels like a bit of a fight in Mumbai, as opposed to in Thailand for example. India is also in general a dirty place, which I don’t like.

How do you deal with loneliness?

• Thankfully I’m good in my own company, so I don’t get that lonely and with my parents deceased, I don’t get homesick. I do miss a good steak and the food options that you get in the UK or Thailand.

Are there things you appreciate more about your homeland now that you are here?

• Cleanliness and big supermarkets, which don’t exist in Mumbai.

How about the practicalities and rules in India?

How do you deal with bureaucracy in your new country?

• I think of it as a cost of doing business and try not to get aggravated, although as a small business owner, it does get frustrating. Employing somebody to look after this makes it easier. 

How did you find a suitable place to live?

• Finding accommodation in Mumbai can be challenging as the quality of housing is generally not very good and landlords and housing associations can sometimes look unfavourably towards single people. When I first came to Mumbai to volunteer, I found a family (with a broker) to live with, and I stayed with them again when I returned.

Was it difficult? What are the biggest cost differences between this country and your home country?

• You can either do Mumbai very cheap or very expensive, for everything. Imported foods such as olive oil and cheese can be very expensive, but eating out overall is much cheaper.

What did you learn about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations abroad?

• I don’t have insurance and initially I found out about tax information from an accountant. Now it’s all online. 

Have you used local health care (family doctor, specialist, dentist, etc.) and what stands out to you?

• Getting testing done (eg blood tests) are incredibly cheap, and I have an overseas nutritionist who I consult with online using this testing to help. I used to use a local dentist, but I prefer my dentist in the UK. I haven’t had to use a family doctor so far, and I think it would be a challenge to find somebody suitable but that’s also because I’m wary of traditional medicine.

What is similar or totally different from health care in the United Kingdom?

• Compared to the UK, my understanding is that the consultants are very blunt and to the point, and there’s not much discussion between doctor and patient. The facilities seem to be pretty good, and it’s a lot cheaper.

What is useful for others to consider?

• Not many people from the West stay longer than two years. Unless you really love the country and/or are doing something that you love, that will probably be enough time. 

Are there any specific issues or tips around 'safety' or 'health' that are useful for other people who are going to live or work in India?

• Despite some occasional bad press, India, and Mumbai in particular, is very safe; I don’t feel at all uncomfortable late at night for example. 

What kind of company/good cause have you founded?

• Along with my business partner we have created a tour company Reality Tours and Travel that does tours throughout India and 80% of the profits go to our charity which runs educational programs in poorer communities. 

Why did you choose this work/company and what is the bureaucracy like in the country you are in?

• As mentioned before, the bureacracy is a headache but I have people who generally deal with it. 

How do you stay in touch with home?

• Apart from with my sister and uncle, I’m not in touch with many people in the UK

What are some communication problems you have encountered?

• British humour, in particular sarcasm, often doesn’t work in India and people often look at you confused. English in India is not so different but sometimes my “accent” makes it harder for some to understand.

What have you learned?

• We’re all the same. 

Meet Michel, a die-hard emigrant for many years. He has lived all over Asia for longer periods of time, in different Asian countries: Japan, Thailand, China, Philippines. You can read below about his story of adaptibility.

How are your experiences emigrating to Asia?

What should people know about you to understand your emigration story? 

Where in that list do you place yourself in?

Why did you choose to become a missionary as work?

How did you choose to go to Asia?

How did you prepare to go to Asia? 

How did you survive in Asia?

What have you learned in Asia?

What makes you feel like you are truly ‘at home’ in a country?

How is your daily routine different from in your home country? 

Do you already have an idea about the future? 

Are there things you appreciate more about your home country now? How do you deal with homesickness/loneliness? What do you miss most? 

What was your first encounter with a local resident in some of the places you stayed? 

What is the funniest or most painful misunderstandings you have experienced due to cultural differences? 

Have you adopted any local customs? 

What is your favorite local tradition/holiday? 

Are there habits in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or get used to?

What was the biggest culture shock? 

How are your social interactions in Asia?

Do you have any tips for meeting people? 

How do locals react to you living and working in their places? 

How does friendship here differ from how it is experienced in your home country? 

Did you learn local languages and if so, how?

What are the practicalities in Asia?

How do you deal with the red tape in a new country? 

What was the most difficult rule to understand/follow in Asia? 

How did you find a suitable place to live in Asia? 

What are the biggest differences in costs between all the countries to live in Asia and your home country? 

What have you learned about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations abroad? 

Have you used local healthcare in Asia (GP, specialist, dentist etc.) and what do you notice? 

What is useful for others to know/take into account? 

Have you developed new hobbies or interests since living abroad?

Are there any projects or activities that you are involved in that give you a sense of fulfillment? What do you do in your free time to feel connected to yourself and your environment?

What local traditions or rituals have inspired or touched you?

For you, what was the best thing about the choices you have made?

I followed my convictions. It wasn't supposed to work out but it did. I'm back to the whitewater example. That way, you either crash or even drown, or have a remarkable ride. I had much, much too much 'luck' for it to be expected. Probability does not account for what happened in my life, not by a long shot. So now I know that. Is there anything else I need to know? I give all the glory to God.

Who?

• Roos Tieges
• Ingrid van der Straaten

Where?

• Thailand

Which Initiative?

• TCDF, Thai Child Development Foundation
• Eco-Logic, the 'Resort for Charity'

What?

• The Thai Child Development Foundation (TCDF) supports local children in their development by making sure that customized medical care and education is also available to underprivileged children and children with disabilities or learning disorders.
• Local Thai team members provide social support programs (medical care, education) together with daily life caregivers to underpriviledged children in their own village/community
• Other projects where TCDF team and local+international volunteers work hands-on: emergenct funds, physiotherapy, nutrition programs, scholarships, occupational training center and perma culture farm, community learning center

Something special?

• At TCDF they believe that the social outreach work can only be done well by working with local people who can develop a long-term bond of trust with the children and their caregivers through constant communication.
• TCDF take care of children in their own community, without taking them out of their homes and never longer than needed
• International and Thai volunteers open up the worlds of the children and the members of the forest community by sharing their (often unique!) skills and knowledge within the community learning center, yoga center and/ or on the organic farm.
• TCDF try to limit damage to the environment. They are strict in handling garbage, reusing garbage, and recycling.
• Eco-Logic, Resort for Charity with tourist accommodation, workshops, and tour packages, is on the same property of the Foundation. This sister company of TCDF is a Thai for profit company and is TCDF's main sponsor.

And last but not least...a little insight in 'Why'

TCDF is founded by a charitable Thai/Dutch family and has supported children in need on a direct and day to day base in Thailand since 2004. Ingrid van der Straaten has been TCDF’s full time volunteer and ambassador since the very beginning when she, and Rosalie decided to make a difference and dedicate their lives to this initiative! The other TCDF's directing founder, Rosalie Tieges, lives with her Thai family within walking distance of the Foundation; other Dutch board members live in Holland.The TCDF Community is a global network of people that believe in acting local and contributing to make a difference. The Thai board members are all people from the village including the village headman and active parents of children in the social programs.

Who is Non?

• Non feels at home everywhere. She emigrated from Japan first to the USA and after to the Philippines.

What was your motivation emigrating to the Philippines?

Why did you emigrate to the Philippines?

• I wanted to know more about Asia.

What should people know about you to understand your emigration story?

• I had been to the US for almost ten years, having a lot of American friends. I thought I should know about Asia as I am a part of it. I think I am a so called a traveler or an employee. There was not any definite plan when I was in Manila at the time. I thought to settle a place to live and find a decent job then.

Why did you choose this work?

• I had a referral from a friend of mine and got a job at a travel agency to assess Japan Visa for three years plus. Then, I decided to start a business.

How did you choose your destination?

• I had a Filipino friend.

How did you prepare?

• I cleaned up all my belongings, packed some into four suitcases.

What have you learned?

• I have moved to overseas multiple times. I just go on.

What makes you feel like you are truly ‘at home’ in the Philippines?

• If you have your own bed or bedroom every night, it will be your home, regardless of its location.

How is your daily routine different from in your home country?

• The daily routine is set by yourself, doesn’t it?

Do you already have an idea about the future?

• I just live today or this moment. I don’t expect future any hope or wish but without any desperate feeling. No one knows what happens next moment.

Are there things you appreciate more about your home country now ? How do you deal with homesickness?

• In my days in abroad I had never had homesickness. I missed food in Japan though hence it doesn’t mean I missed Japanese style food, but food in Japan which has plain taste it’s umami with less fat.

How are your social interactions in the Philippines?

What was your first encounter with a local resident in some of the places you stayed?

• I had met many Americans or Filipinos in Japan before I moved there. I had basic idea of them.

What is the funniest or most painful misunderstandings you have experienced due to cultural differences?

• Filipinos switch (i) and (e), and (u) and (o) when they read out. It is hard to understand.

Have you adopted any local customs?

• No.

What is your favorite local tradition/holiday? 

• Well, opposite though. I hated their Christmas.

Are there habits in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or get used to?

• Filipinos weigh their family a lot. They often say “pinsan” as their member of their family. Pinsan means cousin. When they say it, you have to understand he/she is not a cousin you understand. They say pinsan as even third cousin which is considered nobody in our culture.

What was the biggest culture shock?

• They consider foreigners are all richer than they are.

Do you have any tips for meeting people?

• Filipinos are overall very friendly.

How do locals react to you living and working in their places?

• I could blend into them easily.

How does friendship here differ from how it is experienced in your home country?

• Some well educated people are now very good friends of mine now. My employees are I feel like still my family.

How are the practical things arranged in the Philippines?

Did you learn local languages and if so, how?

• I signed up a Tagalog language school for a while. I was the worst student.

What was the most difficult rule to understand/follow?

• When my coworker or employee made mistakes, I couldn’t scold them. They are so fragile, they can’t tolerate from the warnings by others.

How did you find a suitable place to live?

• I just bought a condo unit in a mall area.

Was it difficult?

• Under Philippine business style, it was hectic process for me, however for Filipino it was smooth. The price was super reasonable.

What have you learned about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations abroad?

• Taxes are pain in a butt everywhere.

Have you used local healthcare (GP, specialist, dentist etc.) and what do you notice?

• I often went back to Japan. I got my medication there, received medical checks.

What is useful for others to know?

• I have no idea. The price is not easy everywhere.

Have you developed new hobbies or interests since living abroad?

• I had learned freediving.

Are there any projects or activities that you are involved in that give you a sense of fulfillment? What do you do in your free time to feel connected to yourself and your environment?

• I supported the poor. Invoked with SDG’s as well. Still sponsoring a working law college student.

What local traditions or rituals have inspired or touched you?

• Vets do a lot of volunteering work, catching stray animals, feeding.

For you, what was the best thing about your choices?

• My employees are all from extremely poor environment. Through the employment, their life turned better. I met them a few years ago about three years absence, they grew more. They looked more stable and economically settled.

• Motivation emigrating abroad and experiences going abroad
• How are your social interactions in Denmark?
• What are the challenges you experienced while moving to Denmark?
• How are the practical things arranged in Denmark?
• What is useful for others to consider when emigrating?
• Communication in and outside Denmark

Motivation emigrating abroad and experiences going abroad

Who is Fenna?

• Fenna left the Netherlands, planned to go to Australia and ended in Denmark. Her story is about how she was able to make new friends and to find beauty (of the winter) in Denmark.

What do people need to know about you to understand your emigration story?

• I have travelled a lot and I really wanted to live abroad for a longer period of time.

Was there a specific moment or event that inspired you to emigrate?

• My partner and I wanted to live abroad for a few more years. This was easily possible through his job, as he works for the university. In 2020, he was almost done with his PhD. We had set our sights on Sydney. We got married and applied for a visa. But covid threw a spanner in the works and eventually our lives came to a standstill for 2.5 years. Australia was very strict and information was scarce. After a few years, we decided to adjust our plan. We looked again at the possibilities and decided to look closer, in Europe. And that became Copenhagen! We moved in February 2022.

How did you prepare for your emigration to Denmark?

• I didn't prepare much. We went to see Copenhagen together and 3 months later we were living there. It was more about a feeling: can I see myself living here? What does life look like then? The biggest job was deciding what we would and would not take with us. We decided not to take any furniture with us and start again, which was lovely.

What does your life look like, what work or activities make you feel like you are really at home in Denmark?

• For me, home is not tied to a location. Home is where friends and family are. So new friendships really made Copenhagen my home too. But also the little things: getting to know my way around the city, building routines, like my weekly yoga class. And, of course, finding a job.

How does your daily routine differ from that in your home country?

• The difference is subtle. It is similar to the Netherlands, but also not. What I can appreciate about Denmark is a very good work-life balance and living with the seasons. In addition, the city invites you to exercise and sport more. I can often be found in the city's harbour baths (yes, it really is so clean that you can swim here). I love the sauna and winter baths. Despite never having been a fan of winter, I am starting to appreciate even that. The darkness and cold invite introspection and rest. Then, in summer, to be outside again for a long time, enjoying good food and the sunshine.

Do you already have an idea about the future?

• No, we'll see for ourselves.

How are your social interactions in Denmark?

What was your first encounter with a local?

• I don't dare to tell you. Probably in the supermarket. Boring huh?

How did that go?

• They speak very good English here, so it's easy to communicate with people here.

Do you have any tips for meeting people?

• Find out what the most widely used social media platform is in the country where you live. For Denmark, it is Facebook. Or join a sports club. Join different activities and try something new. Make sure you don't only join activities for expats.

What is the best or most inspiring thing about your emigration?

• The realisation that when I move away from my familiar surroundings, I am able to build a new life.

Have you adopted local customs?

• Winter baths, not scheduling meetings after 4pm, thinking in weekly numbers.

How do locals react to the fact that you now live and work here?

• Mixed. People often say they need a lot of expats. On the other hand many Danes very closed and it is difficult to build a good friendship with them.

What is your favourite local tradition/ holiday?

• Every holiday here has its own Danish pastry. Therefore, I wouldn't be able to choose. Currently, I am looking forward to the Fastelavn-boller, the pastry for carnival. It starts early and people queue for hours for it.

Are there any customs in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or that you had to had to get used to?

• Danes do not like confrontation and are thus much less direct than the Dutch.

How does friendship here differ from how it is perceived in your home country?

• Friends are friends. I do think that the friends here, who are also from another country, understand much better what it is like to emigrate and what emotions come with it. How beautiful it is, but that it is also difficult. How you change because of your new environment and living between cultures.

What are the challenges you experienced while moving to Denmark?

Have there been times when you doubted your choice/emigration, or what disappointed you?

• Of course. The first six months are tough. Building deeper friendships takes time. But also important moments of friends and family you can't attend. That can still still tricky.

In retrospect, what would you have liked to know about Denmark beforehand?

• I would have liked to know more about the customs and habits and the attitude towards foreigners. But I would also have liked to know more about practical matters. For example, that here you have to unemployment insurance here. I only found out after a year that this existed.

What would you do differently next time and what would you like others with the same idea to with the same idea?

• It's good the way it turned out. Next time I will be more conscious about the fact that things go wrong because you don't know the system. Be okay with that and worry less about worry about it.

What was the biggest culture shock?

• A culture shock is impossible, in my opinion, when you move from the Netherlands to Denmark. But what struck me the most is how good people have it here. In the Netherlands we already have it good, but here the standard is really very high. People are used to being able to fall back on the government when things get tough. Why worry or work extra hard? No need to.

What skill did you never think you would need but have developed?

• Not converting to euros when I order a wine or a beer. That made my life much better.

How do you cope with homesickness?

• I don't live far away and I can go to the Netherlands for work a few times a year. That makes it easier. But I miss most the people I've been close to for so long.

Are there things you appreciate more about your homeland now that you are here?

• Yes, it sounds crazy but the supermarket. It's 15 years behind here. I miss the extensive selection, especially meat substitutes.

How are the practical things arranged in Denmark?

How do you deal with bureaucracy in your new country?

• It's not too bad here.

How did you find a suitable place to live?

• Yes, we have a nice little flat in Copenhagen in a quiet neighbourhood. We are right in the city centre but overlook a nice park and we are surrounded by lots of nature. It suits.

Was it difficult? What are the biggest cost differences between this country and your home country?

• Rent and purchase prices are high, eating out is expensive, having a drink on the terrace is expensive. I let it go, but as Dutch people we were inclined in the beginning to compare everything with the prices we knew. Meanwhile, we no longer do that. We enjoy it.

What did you learn about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations in the abroad?

• Many things are similar like household insurance, travel insurance, etc. Furthermore, it is important to take out unemployment insurance, called a-checkout. You should be a member of this for at least a year. If you are then fired, you will get your wages for up to 2 years paid.

Have you used local healthcare (GP, specialist, dentist, etc.) and what do you notice?

• The healthcare system works well. You don't have health insurance here. It is free. Through your work you are sometimes additionally insured for e.g. physiotherapy, dieticians etc. The dentist is slightly more expensive.

What is similar or totally different from the Dutch healthcare system?

• The principle is similar. I did find it difficult to find a good GP. Because here too, as in the Netherlands, healthcare is under pressure. I have sometimes that the GP could not speak English well, which made it difficult to explain my problem. But it's just little things that you always get out of.

What is useful for others to consider when emigrating?

Are there any specific issues or tips that would be useful for other people who will be living or working in Denmark?

• The very best thing about living in Copenhagen is that I feel very safe. If I have a party that goes on until late, I can go home alone as a woman. I don't fuss and
• don't feel I have to pay extra attention. A big difference from how I felt in Netherlands, when I walked alone on the streets after 12 o'clock.

Why did you choose this work/company and what is the bureaucracy like in the country where you are?

• I work as an editor and project manager at a digital publishing company. I work for the Dutch market and focus on eBooks, audiobooks and I have set up a Print on Demand paperback programme. Lovely to be able to work with books and have a link to Netherlands.

What would you like to highlight about your work?

• It's international and I have nice colleagues. I'm in the office with as many as 10 different nationalities. The office is in the heart of Copenhagen and every lunch I look out over the city.

How is your life regarding meaningful activities in Denmark?

• At the beginning, I benefited a lot from an initiative on Facebook: Girl Gone International. They are active in many cities, a tip for other women!

Have you developed any new hobbies or interests since living in Denmark?

• Yes. I have become addicted to hot yoga, perfect for the winter months. I am in two book clubs, which has made me read even more and made many friends. This
• winter I'm taking a wheel throwing course. So I will soon have a whole collection of not perfectly straight coffee cups. I have learnt a lot of new things over the past few years.

What do you do in your free time to feel connected to yourself and your environment?

• Going outside a lot for a walk.Having a nice bite to eat with my partner or friends.I can also enjoy wandering around Copenhagen alone after work.

What local traditions or rituals in Denmark have inspired or touched you?

• Danish life makes it very easy to keep balance. Full-time is 37.5 hours. Many colleagues with children go home at 3 and the rest usually at 4. The city is so laid out that most people cycle or take public transport.

Communication in and outside Denmark

Have you learnt the local language and if so, how?

• Yes, if you move to Denmark you have 5 years to complete 5 modules for free. This takes you up to B2 level. I have now completed 4 modules.

How do you stay in touch with home?

• I call family and friends regularly. I am briefly in the Netherlands every 3-4 months.

Meet Co. Co is an expat from the Netherlands, who lives in Italy. He loves everything Italy has to offer. He is retired and learns to adapt to Italian culture every day. Read more about his emigration story and his life below. 

How are your experiences emigrating to Italy?

What do people need to know about you to understand your emigration story? How did you prepare?

After a period of 10 years of travelling, during which I visited many warmer countries, I thought why not live in a more pleasant climate than the cold frog climate of the Netherlands? Maybe in Italy… a few years ago - during a sabbatical - I lived in Naples for eight months and worked there unpaid as a cook in a taverna. During that time I was appreciated for my dedication and beautiful dishes, but I did not reach the pace of the average cuoco so my adventure ended in Napoli - a city and culture that I had come to love.

The city of Napoli and the Neapolitan can - in my opinion - be compared to Rotterdam and the average Rotterdammer. It is a raw port city. The Neapolitan wears his heart on his sleeve and, like the people of Rotterdam, is straight to the point - even more so than the average Italian. Should I move to Naples, is a question I flirted with for a long time ... until friends hardly believed me. In 2019, I seriously started investigating a possible immigration to Southern Italy. I went there, first with my car and looked around in the villages in the foothills of the great Apennine mountains just outside Naples. I returned from that voyage of discovery disillusioned. The region was poor and often desolate. 

In my tiny house on the edge of Rotterdam, I - a city boy par excellence - had discovered that I found living 'outside' attractive. so moving to my favourite city, Napoli itself, was not an option. I have time to myself. After all, my working life is over. Well before my sixtieth birthday, I decided to live more minimalistically. Work was therefore not a sacred must. On the way back from Campania - including Naples - I drove along the Adriatic coast and stayed with friends from Rotterdam who had started a campeggio in 'le Marche' a few years ago. When I drove into the region, had lunch in Cornaldo - a beautifully preserved Borgho town - walled with sandstone - a feeling of peace, of home came over me. Although this does sound very new-age-like. 

Would I be able to settle here, was the big question ... When after about ten days I had explored the wide area around Corinaldo and visited several houses, my choice for the region was clear. In the years that followed, with the help of Dutch people who live in le Marche, I thoroughly investigated the possibilities of living in that region for the majority of 'the' year. An intensive process of looking for houses to buy followed. Unfortunately interrupted by the covid epidemic, I have been there more often. 'the duration and my age divided by the time of purchasing and renovating a house to buy' made me ultimately opt for a rental house. I found that house through a tip from my Rotterdam friend from Castelleone di Suasa - just outside the village. It is a lovely new house, but an exact copy of the old family farm that used to be there… I quickly got to know the locals and several expats who also live there - often for decades. Because I had taken Italian language courses before, I picked up the language fairly quickly. Although full mastery is not easy to acquire…

What kind of work or activities make you feel like you are really 'at home' in Italy?

The surroundings are inspiring, views of the Apennines but also of the sea, it is the foothills of the mountains that make the landscape lovely. However, I must not leave unmentioned that it is also an agricultural region. All kinds of things are grown. The local wine, the verdicchio and the olive oil are the products of this. You will also find many golden fields of sunflowers ... 

How does your daily routine differ from that in your home country?

I spend my days with long walks, painting abstract paintings for which the ideas nevertheless bubble up in the landscape of Le Marche ... Because the driving distance from the Netherlands is 'doable' in two days, I regularly have guests over. I also visit - often with guests - the beautiful towns, markets and restaurants. In the Netherlands I had a busy social life; with many activities. In Le Marche I take it a bit easier. Lots of painting and long walks - that's true.

Do you already have an idea about the future?

In the near future I am thinking about whether I will stay in this village, or whether I might want to live closer to a big city. I am not the youngest anymore and would like to live in the immediate vicinity of amenities. 

How is the culture in Italy and interactions with the Italians?

Do you have any tips to meet people?

My advice would be to take some education in the language of the country of the future beforehand. You will come into contact with the local population so much more easily. Learn a lot of words, then you will associate more easily, in my experience. Duolingo or an AI teacher online will probably also help. 

What is the best or most inspiring thing about your emigration?

The peace and quiet, the nature and of course the Italians, who are always willing to help you on your way - literally and figuratively. The fabulous Italian cuisine is also not to be sneezed at. 

What is the funniest or most painful misunderstanding you have experienced due to language or cultural differences?

The fact that there was a pig in a shed, as big as the pig in the yard of my house, made me unable to sleep because of annoyance. As a child of about 10 years old, I saw a pig being slaughtered - and heard it scream - and compassion for the species was the result. After my insistence, the pig was moved to a larger, better home. Although it's future should not be pictured as rosy. 

Have you adopted local customs?

Nowadays, I always eat my salad after the secondo - the second course. Italians often have an antipasto - a starter - then often a pasta follows - called primo - after which the secondo follows. That is often meat or fish with vegetables - contorni - and when they finish the meal comes the dessert - dolce - and then an espresso. I can hardly handle a meal like that; far too much. 

Are there any customs in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or that you had to get used to?

A custom that also appeals to the imagination is the bidet, an Italian cannot and does not want a house without a bagno with a bidet. Now I was already used to using a water pistol; learned from my travels in Southeast Asia, but the mandatory presence of bidets, I found amusing. The fact that you do not drink cappuccino after 12 o’clock, is another custom that has not gone unnoticed. Italian waiters eventually serve it, but not wholeheartedly.

How do the locals react to the fact that you now live and work here?

Italians in ‘my’ village are curious and in the beginning my move was ‘talk of the town’. I was recognized and linked to the yellow house in which I live - casa Gialla.

What is your favorite local tradition/holiday?

The markets that every village or town has, have a great attraction for me. I also can't ignore the annual onion festival - festa di cipolle. 

How does friendship here differ from how it is experienced in your home country?

Friendship with Italians often takes place in the public space. You don't quickly go to an Italian's home. You meet each other in a bar or a restaurant ... 

What are the challenges while emigrating to Italy?

Have there been times when you doubted your choice/emigration, or what disappointed you?

No, I don't regret a single day, but my choices are also based on a thorough orientation.

In retrospect, what would you have liked to know about Italy in advance?

I wouldn't know it right away. Although, perhaps naively, the middle of Italy certainly has winters in which snow and slippery conditions are not excluded. 

What would you do differently next time and what would you like to pass on to others with the same idea?

Nothing, what I advise is to make a thorough orientation of the neighborhood, the population, the role of religion and cultural customs. 

What was the biggest culture shock?

That a new car costs a lot less in Italy. The Netherlands uses bpm and that tax is particularly high.

What skill did you never think you would need, but have developed anyway?

Being patient was not my strong suit at first. I had been doing much better at that for a while. Now being and staying calm is second nature. In Italy this is a welcome quality - not to say very important. Italy is certainly not very effective and efficient like the Netherlands. The bureaucracy is often a reason to grind your teeth and know that getting angry is pointless.

How do you deal with homesickness/loneliness? What do you miss the most?

I have no problem with that.

Are there things you appreciate more about your home country now that you are here?

That the Netherlands is clean, very well organised and hardly corrupt; I like that and I no longer take it for granted. Also that a lot is well organised in the Netherlands. My adage 'travelling is the best antidote to ignorance' also applies here.

How do you deal with the bureaucracy in your new country?

As a good Buddhist should - ahem; it comes and goes like water - offer no resistance …

What was the most difficult rule to understand/follow?

The driving behavior of the average Italian is cringe-inducing. They drive as if their life depends on it. This is not a rule, even though you would almost believe it. In the first three months, two people from the village were killed by reckless driving. No easy task, I would say. Learning to interpret the mood of my conversation partner is a point that requires attention. The gesticulation that is accompanied by firm language is sometimes hard for me to handle. The emotions naturally support the story, but when I think I should call the police, they suddenly fall into each other's arms and normal life resumes. 

What are the biggest differences in costs between this country and your home country?

The average cost of living is lower here, and much more so in the south of Italy. 

What are the practicalities in Italy?

What have you learned about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations abroad?

Not much, except that a business owner is obliged to give you a receipt, and that his accounting system passes on the invoiced and received amounts to the local tax office … 

Have you used local health care (GP, specialist, dentist etc.) and what did you notice?

The public health care system is in a precarious condition - it is like going back 50 years in time. 

What is similar or completely different to the Dutch health care system?

No GP available, poorly accessible primary care, standard secondary care is often inaccessible. 

What is useful for others to take into account?

Are there any specific issues or tips around 'safety' or 'health' that would be useful for other people who are going to live or work in your destination for a longer period of time? I couldn't say (yet)...

What would you like to put in the spotlight about your work?

Nothing.

What are some communication issues you have encountered? 

Communicating with friends and family is hardly a problem. There are many options and with video connections virtual meetings are at least pleasant …

Who?

• Miriam Levie

Where?

• Málaga, Spain

Which initiative?

• TEFL-in-Spain, TEFL-in-Italy

What?

• TEFL courses on location and online TEFL courses, Teacher Development & Spanish or Italian courses

Something special?

• Trinity College London Certificate courses: The Trinity College London Certificate TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is the highest TEFL qualification (same as the CELTA), validated by Trinity College London and recognised by the British Council and employers worldwide.
• Teacher development courses: specialist course modules to improve your teaching skills and to be able to teach to various target groups
• Career services: There is a big demand for English teachers in Spain and Italy. Compared to other European countries, the level of English is quite low, so Spanish and Italian people need to improve their English in order to find a good job in Italy or abroad.

And last but not least...a little insight in 'Why'

• Miriam, nowadays Director and Course Tutor, gained her first experience in teaching English as a foreign language when she came to Spain in January 2005 to study Spanish. Spanish people have a generally low level of foreign language skills and Miriam found out there was a big demand for English teachers. First, she started giving one-on-one classes and later Miriam was offered a job at a language school, followed by a position as an in-company English teacher. She enjoyed it so much that she realised teaching foreign languages was her true vocation. Miriam understands what students are going through, because she knows exactly what it is like to learn another language. After several years of teaching Miriam wanted to further develop her skills related to the theory and practice in the area of teaching English and decided to study again. She received a Master’s Degree in Applied Linguistics at the Universidad Autónoma of Madrid. In this programme she specialised in Second Language Acquisition and Teacher Training and decided to set up a high quality TEFL school with other experienced teacher trainers.

Who is Jan?

• Jan worked for the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and reopened a consulate in Brazil.
• Read more about his experiences below through the interview below.

What do people need to know about you to understand your story? 

• I was sent out by my employer, Foreign Affairs to reopen a Consulate in Brazik.
• I did not really prepare.

What is your life like, what kind of work or activities make you feel you are really “at home” in Brazil?

• Basic knowledge of the language is an indispensable requirement to feel at home in Brazil, as few people speak another language (e.g. English).

How does your daily routine differ from that in your home country?

• Brazilians take their time for everything. They often arrive late for appointments or don't show up at all. You can never get straight to the point but first answer questions about family and health. Everything is very complicated and agonizingly slow with a leaden bureaucracy.

How were your cultural and social interactions in Brazil?

What was your first encounter with a local?

• Brazilians are very warm and friendly people, however, one should not take them too seriously. They are spontaneous and there is curiosity about where you are from, what you are doing in the country, etc.

Do you have any tips for meeting people?

• Very easy. Learn a few words of Portuguese and you will be warmly welcomed everywhere.

What is the best or most inspiring thing about your emigration?

• Let go of your European institution of rules, agreements and order or you'll be annoyed to death.

What is the funniest or most painful misunderstanding you have experienced because of language or cultural differences?

• Everything continually goes haywire. There is always a signature or a stamp or something missing. Once I was not allowed on a tourist bus with my own daughter (possible child abduction), when I showed up with a self-signed letter that it was ok, I was allowed on the bus (surreal).

Have you adopted local customs?  

• Let go of European social rules.

How do locals react to you living and working here now?

• Brazilians are smooth and warm in their interactions and generally admire Europe.

Are there any customs in social interaction that you found difficult to understand or had to get used to?

• Failure to keep appointments.

How does friendship here differ from how it is perceived in your home country?

• Brazilians seem superficial, but if you can accept them as they are, you have friends for life.

What are the challenges in Brazil?

Have there been times when you doubted your choice/emigration, or what disappointed you?

• Bureaucracy, bureaucracy, bureaucracy.

What would you do differently next time and what would you like to give others with the same idea?

• Mentally prepare for everything to take an awful long time and don't take people too seriously.

How do you deal with homesickness/loneliness?/What do you miss most?

• Brazilians are bon vivants, loneliness hardly exists in this country.

Are there things you appreciate more about your homeland now that you are here?

• The sense of organization, the seriousness with which things are handled.

How are the practical rules & what are the issues in Brazil?

How do you deal with the bureaucracy in your new country?

• Suffering. Problems with administration can often be solved if you happen to know the right people. Try to make friends. Everyone has an acquaintance or family member who can help you through a more informal avenue to help solve your problem. Brazil is the most bureaucratic country I have been.Economists talk about the     ‘Brazilian cost’ by which is meant all the additional costs you have to charge to get something done (clearance fees, taxes, administrative costs, bribes, etc.) An additional disadvantage is that everything is done in Portuguese. Few people speak English.

How did you find a suitable place to live? 

• Through a real estate agent.

Was it difficult? What are the biggest cost differences between this country and your home country?

• Owner and tenant both have to pay a comission fee to the real estate agent. This amount can be high. The tenant is obliged, when leaving the rental property to have it repainted at his expense, at least as far as the inside is concerned.

What did you learn about insurance, taxes and other financial obligations abroad?

• Without your registration with the CPF (tax authorities) you won't get anywhere.

Have you used local health care (general practitioner, specialist, dentist, etc.) and what stands out to you?

• If you are well insured you can use an excellent private health service).

What is similar or totally different from Belgium health care?

• Two tracks : excellent care for those who have the money , third-rate care for those who rely on the public health service.

What is useful for others to consider?

• Do not rent a house, but an apartment. A home is too dangerous because of numerous break-ins and robberies. Apartments offer better security. Do not wear jewelry or show signs of wealth. In addition to your actual wallet, keep a wallet with a small amount of money in your pocket and give it when you become the victim of a robbery. Do not try to be a hero, because a human life is not worth much in Brazil.
• The police are very quick to reach for their weapon. Never argue with them if you notice they are agitated, wait until they have calmed down. I was once threatened with a gun by four policemen, until they realised I was a foreigner and had nothing to do with a theft I had just committed....
• If you have the means, engage an errand boy to take care of all kinds of business for you, (bank, mail, electricity bills, condominium fees pay etc, because everywhere you bump into endless lines of people waiting)

What kind of business have you established?

• Consulate General.

What is the bureaucracy like in the country you are in?

• Belgian bureaucracy times 10.

What local traditions or rituals have inspired or touched you?

• Carnival.

How do you balance working, relaxing and enjoying your new surroundings?

• In Rio de Janeiro, the weekend starts on Friday afternoon. Laze on the beach or walk in the “ Floresta de Tijuca”

How is it to communicate in Brazil?

Have you learned the local language and if so, how?

• Yes. First some lessons with assimil and then just being immersed in a Brazilian language bath. A must in this country.

How do you stay in touch with home?

• Email.

What are some communication problems you have encountered?

• Without a basic knowledge of the language, you won't get anywhere.

What have you learned?

• That we Europeans often take life far too seriously. 
• As a diplomat, indeed, you have to love travelling, adventure and change to last in the diplomatic profession. You pay a high price to your social life.
• Just when you feel like home, it's time to leave again and leave behind the friends you've made. An interesting career, but I still wouldn't recommend it to everyone.