From establishing a routine in your new city to immersing yourself in local culture, here are some tried and true ways to help combat homesickness when moving abroad.

Moving abroad can be an exciting experience full of new sights, cultures, and traditions, but starting a new life in an unfamiliar country also comes with its own challenges, including the potential for homesickness. Being away from your home environment can be difficult, especially around the holiday season. With that in mind, we’ve gathered some tips to overcome homesickness for expatriates.

Developing a social circle abroad is pivotal for adapting to unfamiliar surroundings. Actively participating in local events and activities and even engaging with local social media accounts connects you with residents, fostering a supportive network that eases your transition and strengthens your sense of belonging in the new city.

By cultivating relationships and immersing yourself in the community, you expand your social boundaries and gain deeper cultural insights. This engagement not only mitigates feelings of homesickness but also enhances one’s expatriate journey. Find opportunities to meet diverse individuals and assimilate into your new environment, as doing so allows for deeper integration into your new cultural landscape. Don’t hesitate to share your traditions with new people to bring a little home into your new routine, as well.

Exploring your new surroundings means diving into local attractions, dining venues, museums, parks, and more. To further embrace your new home, find out what “hot spots” and opportunities your new location offers that you’d enjoy and learn about the culture through your own experiences. Embracing these opportunities can create a sense of belonging and allow you to appreciate your adopted environment’s unique aspects. By actively engaging with local culture and surroundings, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your new locale, making your transition smoother and your experience more fulfilling. Local destination service providers (DSPs) are experts in their markets and can help provide guidance on where to begin.

Transform your new living space into a comforting sanctuary by incorporating personal touches such as photos, artwork, or scented candles. These familiar items create a cozy atmosphere that fosters relaxation and a sense of belonging, helping you feel more at ease and settled in your new home environment.

Establishing a structured routine in your new environment provides stability and familiarity. Incorporate elements from your previous routine, such as weekly market visits, to maintain a sense of continuity, but don’t be afraid to also find new activities you enjoy to enhance your well-being and create a comforting sense of normalcy as you adapt to life abroad. This structured approach will help you adjust to your new surroundings and support your overall mental and emotional stability during this settling-in period.

To fill the distance, prioritize regular calls with friends and family back home. These conversations can create a sense of continued closeness and mutual involvement in each other’s lives, fostering emotional support and companionship despite the distance.

During the holidays, find ways to adjust traditions while working abroad such as sending gifts home and using technology to connect, whether it’s a call, FaceTime, or sharing photos.