A study conducted by American Citizens Abroad (ACA) showed that around four million non-military US citizens live outside the country. The information is based on Residence-based taxation (RBT). On the other hand, the US State Department notes that around nine million Americans live overseas based on birth registrations and passport applications at consulates and embassies.
Despite the differences in numbers, they still show that many US citizens live abroad. While some live on military bases, others rent a home or own a condominium in countries where they are allowed to own properties.
Living in a foreign country can be a unique and rewarding experience. But, it can also be challenging to create a sense of home when everything is new and unfamiliar. Here are some tips for creating a unique environment in your home abroad that will make you feel comfortable and at ease.
Get to know your neighbors and form friendships with them.
A sense of community is one of the most important aspects of a happy life, whether at home or abroad. One of the best ways to foster a sense of community is by getting to know your neighbors. This can be difficult if you’re new in town, but it’s well worth the effort.
A sense of community also benefits your mental health, especially if you live abroad. People are social beings and should not live in isolation. Due to this, a community is necessary for people to thrive. Loneliness and isolation are common symptoms of mental illness, so it is crucial to be proactive in developing a support system.
Neighbors can become some of your best friends and provide invaluable support during difficult times. They can also help you feel more connected to your new home and make it feel less like a foreign place. So take the time to introduce yourself, learn their names, and ask about their families. You may be surprised at how much you have in common.
Create a space in your home that feels like an oasis.
Creating a home abroad that feels like an oasis is incredibly important. When you’re living in a foreign country, it can be challenging to develop a sense of stability and comfort. Having a space in your home that is uniquely your own can help to make those feelings more tangible. It can be a place where you can relax and de-stress or simply take a break from the craziness of daily life.
There are many ways to create an oasis at home. Some people might choose to decorate their space with plants and flowers, while others might prefer to have lots of cozy pillows and soft fabrics. The most important thing is to make the space your own and personalize it however you see fit. This will help you to feel more at ease when you’re in your home and allow you to escape from the world outside whenever you need to.
You can also consider working with a reliable company offering biophilic design ideas for the home. The design gives a refreshing ambiance to the home since it simulates a natural environment inside the house. It incorporates direct and indirect natural elements to provide the place with a revitalizing atmosphere.
Invest in comfortable furniture and decor.
When living in a foreign country, making your home feel like your own is vital. One way to do this is by investing in comfortable furniture and decor. This will help you feel relaxed and at ease in your space, which can be especially important if you feel homesick.
Additionally, comfortable furniture and decor can help you adjust to the new culture more quickly by providing a familiar environment. So if you plan to live abroad for an extended period, be sure to factor in some extra money for comfortable furniture and decor!
Create a routine for yourself.
Creating a routine for yourself is essential when living in a foreign country. This will help you feel more at home and comfortable in your new surroundings. A routine can include:
- Eating meals at the same time each day.
- Going for walks at the same time each evening.
- Spending time with certain friends each week.
By establishing a routine, you’ll be able to better navigate your new environment and feel more settled in your temporary home.
Regular routines also reduce stress levels and allow you to sleep better. Sleep is critical when you’re living in a foreign country. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, irritability, and a feeling of being run down. A routine can help you get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. This will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to face the challenges of living in a new place.
Living in a foreign country can be difficult. But following these tips can make the experience a little bit easier.
