As some of you know, international moving requires time to research, plan and make the necessary arrangements before you even pack one box. Other factors that will determine how much planning will be required is if this move is on your own initiative or through a company or educational facility.
No matter what, start planning early!
Research
The best advice is always read, learn and find out as much as you can about your new home country. Find out about the culture and customs - this is key to understanding what it'll be like there, how you can fit in and what your lifestyle may be like. History is also important to know and can give you a better perspective on its current state.The best way to find out what it's like to live in a different country is to get in touch with expats who have made the same move you're about to make. The Internet is a great tool for forums, chat groups and general research material. I've used them many times to find out about international moves, including one we're researching to Dubai.
Online Forums
Here's a list of online forums; places where you can chat with others who are in the same situation as you and those who are already living in the country you're moving to. It's a great place to get the current news and advice from people who know.
- Expat Forum: www.expatforum.comprovides a guide to moving abroad, including a guide to buying property, overseas jobs and forums.
- Expat Exchange: www.expatexchange.com is another informative site with a very active forum for people on the move. It also lists advice for buying real estate, job hunting and moving tips.
- Transitions Abroad offers a list of yahoo groups you can join, along with expat blogs and websites - it's worth a look.
- Yahoo groups: This is usually the first place I go to when thinking about doing something new, whether it's a hobby or traveling or moving someplace new. You can join for free, sign up for the group you're interested in then receive daily postings in your email box. If you haven't signed onto yahoo groups, I highly recommend it.
Consular Information Sheets
Consular Information Sheets are produced and distributed by the U.S. Department of State. These information sheets outline the country, with details on current travel conditions, including any security issues, warnings, and advice.To access the information, you can call the Office of Overseas Shipping Services at (202) 647-5225 and listen to a pre-taped recording. This is the most current information you'll receive on the country you're researching.
The information sheets are also available online at the U.S. Department of State's website. Here, you can also access the latest travel warnings, obtain brochures on issues such as health overseas, sending money and tips on international adoption. This is definitely a site worth checking out and should be on your list of places to start your research.
