The Expat Experience

We explore Leanne's multifaceted reasons for relocating to Hamburg eight years ago! We dive deep into comical and charming Germany vocabulary, along with our future travel aspirations.

 

Further, we tackle German bureaucracy, job applications and taxes; Leanne also shares her experience in becoming a German citizen, namely completing the test and attending the ceremony!

 

Continuing on the humorous side, she describes a hilarious, yet terrible mistake she made in her spoken German! She offers detailed differences between Brits & Germans, and solid advice on what you should do if you want to pursue expat life.

Finally, we discuss German labour laws and working full-time vs. as a freelancer in the country.

 

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Jerod talks with me about joining the Peace Corps, particularly the rigorous requirements and interview process! He also articulates the need to overcome naivete and idealism when working in a volunteer position overseas.

 

We speak at length about his life growing up in the United States, specifically about conquering his fear of flying post-9/11, the precarious nature of retirement, social security and the middle class, and the intense "live to work" culture. He shares how living and working abroad has presented more "secure" prospects in comparison to remaining in the USA.

 

Finally, we discuss the value of studying abroad, volunteering, or short-term work assignments overseas, in addition to the universality of human needs and desires across cultural, national and even political lines.

 

Jerod isn't much of a social media user, but you can find him on LinkedIn under his full name 'Jerod Elias'!

 

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Josee is a Mindful Travel Coach based in Madrid, Spain. She shares her experiences in transitioning from living in Peru to Spain, and from a 9-5 work life to an entrepreneurial one. She explains how she has cultivated a unique lifestyle that balances having a 'home base' while also enabling her to freely travel and explore!

 

We explore at length the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded people, especially if you are seriously considering designing an authentic, unconventional lifestyle. We also discuss the struggles of navigating local cultures, continuing to form your identity, and coexisting with fear!

 

You can check out Josee and her work at youchoosetheway.com/, on Facebook and Pinterest at 'You Choose the Way', and on Instagram @choosing_my_way!

 

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Courtney (Coco) is a jewelry designer and owner of a sustainable luxury brand called 'The World of Indah' who separates her time between Bali, Indonesia and Kelowna, BC! She expresses her love and affinity for Indonesia at length, and we explore the rewards and challenges of managing a business within the Balinese culture.

 

Courtney also tells me about the positive impacts of living a healthier lifestyle in Bali through attending wellness centers, practicing yoga and traditional prayer, and consuming vegan and vegetarian food.

 

Further, we discuss the 'KITAS' (Indonesian work visa), doing regular 'visa runs' and the value of solo travel. She also shares professional opportunities that have been presented to her as a creative entrepreneur, including her once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to design a collection for Versace!

 

Lastly, we wrap up by emphasizing how important it is to nurture relationships back home, as well as with the people around you in your new location

 

You can find out more about Coco's business at www.theworldofindah.com, as well as on IG @theworldofindah! To learn more about Coco herself, check her out on YouTube and IG @welcometococoland

 

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Shaun shares his experience relocating from South Africa to Germany, and how surprisingly painless it was! We compare and contrast some of the most notable cities in the country, including Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Nuremburg.

 

We discuss the difficulty of the German language and studying it through different means, namely: private language schools, employers, intensive courses and even Duolingo! We explore the challenges of befriending German people, and Shaun offers advice of his own for aspiring expats for any country.

 

You can listen Shaun's podcast on life in Germany called 'The Germany Experience'. Also check him out on Facebook and Instagram @the.germany.experience !

 

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Caroline and I discuss the laid back, simple and healthy lifestyle in Mallorca! We explore Spaniards' social relationships, the allure of "food tourism", creative and integrative methods for studying the local language, and preparing yourself financially and mentally for expat life!

 

You can find Caroline on Instagram @mallorca_mentor, and on her website at carolinediana.com!

 

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Carrie is a former expat whose journey took her to the Middle East! She is an established artist who has worked as an IB Art Teacher in Dubai, UAE, as well as in Muscat, Oman.

 

We speak at length about dispelling common misconceptions about living and working in the Middle East, the generous pay and benefits of her work contracts, how small (and intimate) the expat community truly is, managing familial relationships and making your new destination feel like home.

 

You can find Carrie and her exceptional artwork on her website at https://www.carriebrummer.com/, and on her Instagram @artiststrong!

 

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Chelcie’s career path has always been defined by her love of travel and creativity. She describes her involvement in a remarkable art project that is therapeutic and retains local history and customs!

 

We explore the adverse effects of tourism on local communities, and what the alternatives are. Lastly, we discuss what not to do before going abroad and focusing on your purpose.

 

You can find out more about her work at http://rootsandculturetravel.com/, and also on Instagram @rootsandculturetravel

 

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Tracey is a Nurse and Author who articulates the differences (and disparities) in healthcare between Canadian provinces! She shares details about her expertise in mental health, and even an unsettling experience she had in Baton Rouge while promoting her work.

 

You can find her on Instagram @engage.educate.empower, and on her website at www.traceymaxfield.com!

 

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Tanzim is a former Electrical Engineer turned Software Developer who began his international journey as a digital nomad embarking across Asia. We discuss Germany’s Youth Mobility Visa and Berlin’s start-up culture. We also elaborate on the perks of minimalism, solo travel and strategic budgeting! You can find him on Instagram @tanzim_m !

 

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