Here are 5 top tips for expats looking to make new friends abroad:
Why you should spend time with your colleagues outside of work
This one is an especially helpful tip for expats who work in larger companies which may have social activities that you can take part in. Spending time with your colleagues outside of work is a great way of making new connections in your new place.
Why you should join a gym/sports team abroad
Expat life is a rewarding one and living abroad will definitely help you to grow. An easy way to meet new people and make new friends is by joining a local gym or a sports team. This will help introduce you to new people and give you an activity in your new place.
Don’t worry if you aren’t into sports, you can always join a club that better suits your interests. There are usually many clubs and organisations to pick from so be sure to do your research in advance.
Why you should take up a new hobby abroad
It helps to try and bring your hobbies and interests with you wherever you go in the world. This will help you to settle down in your new place and is also a great way of making new friends.
A hobby could be something that you are returning to after many years or something that you’ve never tried before. Whatever hobby you choose to pursue, try and pick one that will lead to new connections and meeting new people.
Make new expat friends online
Going online to make new friends is becoming more and more popular these days. There are many apps you can use to find people that have similar interests to you.
Consider joining a forum or finding events online. The world’s leading expat network, InterNations, often has events on where you can go and interact with other expats.
Put yourself out there and say yes to everything
Finding other people to socialise with is a great way of feeling more settled when you move abroad. This means you may need to take a step outside of your comfort zone and say yes to social invitations when you get them.
It helps if you try and get involved in as many things as you possibly can. This is a great way to interact with locals, make new friends and also get settled in to your new place.
Benefits of being an expat
Becoming an expat is a huge decision and how you are going to make new friends is just one of many things to consider when moving abroad. Your experience as an expat will often help you become a lot more adaptable to change and better at coping with new situations.
Being an expat gives you the opportunity to make new friends and expand your social circle to a global scale. Remember that meeting people from different backgrounds can turn into a transformative experience and also opens doors to opportunities for you in other parts of the world.
More tips
For more tips and advice on how to overcome new challenges when moving abroad, visit our Becoming an Expat blog section.
International health insurance
Also remember that ensuring healthcare will be provided for you and your family is one of the most important things you will need to consider when moving abroad.
