With all the amazing experiences travel offers, there are things that can make traveling less than stellar – the paperwork you have to secure before you start your trip; getting used to strange and uncomfortable nuances in a new culture; figuring out public transportation schedules; encounters with less-than-savory places and individuals; and the list can go on. We try to keep a positive attitude throughout the valleys of traveling, but one particular hardship always gets me. Homesickness.
Christopher usually arrives at our new home a few weeks before me due to school and other commitments. This means I usually have some time to spend with my family before heading out. I get to play with my niece; take my nephews to the movies; get manis/pedis with my sister; talk to my brother-n-law about running a business; learn a new recipe with my stepmother; and argue about politics with my dad. I also get to spend some one-on-one time with my in-laws.
By the time I depart for the airport, I’ve always decided this is it, this is the last trip. I’m going to miss my family too much, and I’m moving home as soon as possible.
Goodbyes feel like someone has reached down my throat and ripped my heart out. Then my dad always gives me the kick in the rear I need and reminds me what an amazing opportunity we’re living, and off I go through security. He’s, of course, always right, but it doesn’t make the tears stop flowing as TSA agents just shake their heads at me.
For me, homesickness is the worst part of traveling and living abroad. Even though the countries we’re living in are wonderful all on their own, I always miss the United States. After the first few nights of crying for home, you find ways to cope.
1. Skype is your new best friend
I don’t think I would have survived Brazil or my first few weeks in Switzerland without being able to see and talk with my family almost daily through teleconference. All social media platforms have been extremely helpful in keeping up with friends, family and news back home. I often wonder how my mother coped with living in Germany for four years in the 1980s only being able to call home once a week and sending letters through snail mail.
2. Join expatriate groups
Making friends can be difficult in a new place. As expatriates, you already have something in common, and these groups hold weekly meetups and other activities to help you make the most of your new home. A few we’ve joined and have found helpful are InterNations, International Newcomers Club in São Paulo and Couchsurfing.
3. Get busy
Whenever we get to our new home, one of the first things I do is look up local Zumba classes. I really enjoy this dance exercise class, and it helps keep my mind off what I’m missing. Find an activity (preferably outside of the house) in your new place you enjoy. Get out and do it!
4. Find some perspective
When I’m feeling at my lowest, I consistently remind myself of what an awesome experience this is to have. I think about all the great memories we’re creating and the stories we will have to tell family and friends back home.
5. Share your new home
Writing this blog helps us let everyone know what we’re up to, what we’re seeing, and how we feel about the whole experience. By writing short stories, making photo montages, or whatever your creative outlet is, the more you share with others, the more you find to love about your new little piece of Earth.
What do you miss most about home when you’re traveling?
-Monica