It’s a daunting but exciting prospect moving abroad indefinitely. Purchasing a one way ticket is no mean feat. Turning your back on your old life to start a new adventure in a completely different country is a gutsy move – but do you have what it takes? There’s a few traits you need before you book that one way ticket.
The Social Factor: Embarking solo to a new country takes great strength. You need to become a social butterfly and make new friends as soon as you touch down. Whether its locals, full of great tips for the best places to visit, or fellow travellers who are seeking company just as much as you are and are probably feeling the same rollercoaster of emotions. Head down to hubs of activity such as bars and hostels, join group tours or even get yourself a job – there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people.
Be Prepared: For everything your journey is going to throw at you. It isn’t always going to be plain sailing. Many of my friends who have done just what you are contemplating doing, moving to Australia, Canada, Hong Kong and New Zealand, have all faced difficulties with VISA’s. Don’t let it be a barrier for you, know what you need to have in terms of documents, work experience, references etc. Working visa, tourist visa or even if you’re contemplating permanent residency, you need to know your stuff pre adventure.
Nurture Relationships: Keeping in touch is hard work, so don’t set yourself high standards to keep to. Pay careful attention to those back home by making the effort to Skype at a time great for you both and ask them questions too, no matter how excited your are to fill them in on your new lifestyle!
How do you choose where to go?
One of the biggest questions of them all – where to go? The world really is your oyster, so make the most of it. Plenty of companies offer around the world tickets so you can explore all corners of the globe; from the depths of the Himalayas to the Golden Coast of Australia, you can go wherever your heart wishes.
The best way to choose is to look for inspiration online, map a logical journey and talk to people that have done it before. Whether that’s someone you know or even a friends friend, get inspired by their stories.
