Downshfiting Abroad
  Family Considerations

Downshifting Abroad

One thing about moving abroad, should it go a bit wrong, is that it'll be far more expensive and emotional to move back than it is to move there.

For this reason, it is imperative that the family are ready for it and situations / circumstances are as near to right as they can be.

Here's a few things I've picked up upon by personal experience and from TV documentaries etc....

1. The Language
It seems that so many Brits expect the rest of the world to understand us and often they will move abroad on this assumption. It's not true !!
There is nothing worse than not being able to ask for simple things and some 'natives' will see this as an insult to them.

I would therefore suggest a good Language Course before you embark on your life journey.

2. The Kids
It seems it's a case of the younger the better. Younger kids can pick up a langauge a lot faster, they can adapt more easily to a change of education and will learn to fit in a lot quicker.

3. Localised work
Should the property you're buying need work done to it and you haven't the time to do it yourself, use local builders and workers. They will appreciate this and you'll become a part of the community a lot quicker

4. The family and friends you're leaving behind
We're all sure to get home sick for old colleagues, family and friends, but consideration has to be given to those you're leaving behind.
Sure you should not allow this to be a main factor unless there's age or illness involved, but consider them as well.
It isn't a case of 'popping around to see Tom and Sally just like that anymore.

5. The Laws
You can be pretty sure that many laws, especially buying and developing properties are very different to over here. Get yourself a good English speaking Solicitor to do the work for you. Tread carefully.

6. Appreciate and Respect
Appreciate and respect your new country. You're not maybe changing nationality, but you are 'guests in someone elses home'. Become part of that.

 

Family values are a little like family vacations -— subject to changeable weather and remembered more fondly with the passage of time. Though it rained all week at the beach, it’s often the momentary rainbows that we remember.
LESLIE DREYFOUS, New York Times, Oct. 25, 1992

Children adapt to moving both Home and Country very easily, maybe better than adults

It's us adults who miss the rain, the typical damp winters day and a chat about the weather!

Remember the £10 Poms? For the youngsters, many British families moved to Australia during the late 50's and 60's.
One third of them returned, enjoyed their experience, but deemed
'There's no place like home'

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