You've moved to your new town
The keys turn in the lock as the lorry turns up with your worldly belongings. The excitement builds as you unpack cherished ornaments and hang images of loved ones on the wall. The quicker you work the quicker it will feel like home; the kids are excited and running around exploring and helping by unpacking everything and leaving it on the floor!
The animals arrive in a few hours which gives you time to organise their outside shady spot, feeding bowls, and beds. As you wander around finding homes for everything you finally start to take in the enormity of what you have just achieved – moving to a new country and town....congratulations!!!
The thrill of moving somewhere new, is a big emotion to feel as an individual, couple or family...so many things to think about and organise.
So what now? Meet new friends, get to know the town and try to find someone to help with a leaky tap, an afterschool club or a place to adopt another animal?
Our ten tips for when you first arrive.
Once you arrive, try to balance the unpacking and paperwork with exploring...
Be a tourist in your new town!
Try not to compare too many things to your home town.
Prepare for all the emotions, don't be surprised by home sickness and anxiety, it is a big thing you have just done!
Meet new people and try new classes.
Research things to do, attend local events and talk to locals.
Learn the hacks – how to get cheaper transport, hidden gems, local secrets.
Sign up to a language course, don't worry we have all been a beginner!
Try to make a few local cafes and bars your local, so you can take time getting to know the owners and customers.
Adjusting to new daily routines can be exhausting, get to know the shop opening times, siesta routines and usual social timings, it can take a while to adjust, but you will get there!
Don't give yourself a hard time! It is not easy moving to a new town and country, give yourself space to get used to your new life!