The Expat Pod

The Expat Pod

By James DoranSociety & CulturePlaces & Travel
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The Expat Pod episodes

  • E053 - Being Present: Embracing the Experience

    Summary:

    Aleksandra shares her experiences living abroad, starting from her childhood move to the US and her travels across various countries. She discusses the challenges of obtaining visas, the decision to sell everything and live a nomadic life, and the importance of being present and enjoying the experiences. She talks about her impressions of different countries, including Japan, South Korea, China, North Korea, and Malaysia. Aleksandra emphasizes the need to form one's own opinions about a country and not rely on stereotypes or preconceived notions. In this conversation, Aleksandra shares his incredible journey of living abroad and traveling to various countries. He talks about his experiences in North Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Moldova, and Spain. James emphasizes the importance of being present, letting go of expectations, and embracing different cultures. He also discusses the benefits of house sitting and provides advice for those considering a similar lifestyle. Aleksandra is a life transformer and mentor, helping others through mindset shifts and personal transformations.


    Find the amazing literature Aleksandra has produced about her travels here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=sasha+borya

    And go listen to Aleksandra Fayermans podcast "Teach a man to think" - https://open.spotify.com/show/6RBmguRAMopo82hqzFP1j0?si=cfb1756cb16346c8


    Takeaways:

    • Living abroad can be a transformative experience that allows for personal growth and self-discovery.
    • It is important to form one's own opinions about a country and not rely on stereotypes or preconceived notions.
    • Obtaining visas can be a challenging process, but it is possible to navigate through it with research and planning.
    • Being present and enjoying the experiences is more important than focusing on work or other obligations.
    • Exploring supermarkets and trying local foods can be a fascinating way to immerse oneself in a new culture.
    • Language barriers can be overcome through gestures, smiles, and a willingness to communicate.
    • Every country has its own unique qualities and it is important to approach each one with an open mind and curiosity. Be present and let go of expectations when living abroad and traveling
    • Embrace different cultures and understand that what may seem strange or different is just a part of their culture
    • Consider house sitting as a way to travel and experience different places


      • Sound Bites:

      • "I was feeling really unchallenged, unfulfilled, and kind of everything I've been dealing with my whole life just kind of came crashing down"
      • "We took the risk and actually like made the step first before we got the blessing"
      • "I don't know what's in Japan. I don't eat sushi. I don't eat ramen. I don't watch anime. Like it didn't really speak to me"
        • "We loved Malaysia so much, even being there during monsoon season."
        • "There's some aspect that is just so liberating when you're in a place like that."

          • Connect with Us:

          • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

          • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

          • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

          • X: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

          • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

            • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

            If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


            Chapters:

            00:00 Introduction and Background

            05:24 Section 1: Getting There

            23:59 Section 2: Being There

            44:31 Choosing a Flight and Unexpected Changes

            45:29 Embracing Malaysia During Monsoon Season

            48:19 The Liberating Experience of Cambodia

            52:02 Dubai: A Unique Middle Eastern City

            58:29 Believing in the Journey and Trusting the Process

            01:21:08 Letting Go of Expectations and Embracing Different Cultures

            01:27:18 Celebrating Diversity and Finding Your Purpose


            1 hr 21 min
          • Quick Fire Questions - The Importance of Being a Friend With Deborah Dahab

            Summary:

            Deborah answers quickfire questions about her life abroad, including her favourite place, international food, and traditions. She also discusses the benefits of living abroad, the challenges of maintaining friendships, and the importance of being a friend. Deborah shares her favourite phrase and offers advice for expat life.


            Find Deborah here!

            https://deborahdahab.com/


            Takeaways:

            Living abroad allows for the opportunity to cherry-pick the best aspects of different cultures and create a unique way of being.

            Food is a powerful remedy for homesickness and can evoke childhood memories.

            Maintaining friendships while living abroad requires effort and nurturing.

            Being a friend and offering support is the best way to make new friends.

            Knowing the purpose and goal behind your actions is important for a fulfilling expat life.


            Sound Bites:

            "Cherry picking my own culture"

            "Porcilas moscas, just in case"

            "Always know your what for"


            Chapters:

            00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions

            02:04 Favorite International Food

            03:03 Favorite International Tradition

            05:46 The Joys of Living Abroad

            07:11 Challenges of Living Abroad

            08:11 Favorite Phrase Learned Abroad

            09:38 Making and Maintaining Friendships

            10:38 Enjoying the New City

            11:08 Advice for Expat Life

            11:36 Closing Remarks



            12 min
          • E052 - Navigating the Challenges of Living Abroad

            Summary:

            Deborah, an expat coach and geocultural psychologist, shares her experiences of living abroad and helping others navigate the challenges of expat life. She has lived in multiple countries, including Brazil, the US, France, Spain, and Portugal. Deborah initially moved abroad for study and later for work and love. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural nuances and communication styles when living in a new country. Deborah's own struggles and realization led her to pursue a master's degree in intercultural psychology and start her own business to help other expats. James Doran shares his experiences living in different countries, including the UK, Spain, France, and Portugal. He emphasizes the importance of aligning your goals with the location you choose to live in and seeking support and resources to navigate the challenges of living abroad. He also highlights the value of creating a community and building friendships with people from different cultures. James offers assistance to expats through his Expat Journey Program, which provides a roadmap for preparing for and adjusting to life in a new country.


            Find Deborah Here:

            https://deborahdahab.com/about/


            Takeaways:

            • Living abroad can be a wonderful and daunting adventure, requiring preparation and adjustment.
            • Understanding cultural nuances and communication styles is crucial for a successful expat experience.
            • Language barriers and differences in professional etiquette can pose challenges in adapting to a new country.
            • Seeking support from local communities and building relationships can greatly enhance the expat experience. When choosing a location to live abroad, consider how it aligns with your goals and what you want to achieve in life.
            • Seek support and resources to navigate the challenges of living abroad, such as language barriers and cultural differences.
            • Create a community and build friendships with people from different cultures to enhance your experience and provide a support network.
            • Prepare for your move abroad by creating closure, deciding where to live, and seeking resources to help you adjust to your new location.


              • Sound Bites:

              • "I help people not only navigate the afterwards, but also prepare for the move abroad."
              • "There's no one place that is a home country. It's hard to pinpoint where you feel at home."
              • "Being on a student visa, in order to stay there holding a Brazilian passport, I would have had to find a job and have a company sponsor my work visa."
              • "No matter where you are, there's going to be good days, bad days, marvelous days, you know, horrible days."
              • "Is it taking me closer to where I want to be or not? Or is it taking me further away? Or am I just standing still?"
              • "Being kind to yourself is probably a lesson we can all learn."


                • Connect with Us:

                • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                • X: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                  • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                  If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                  Chapters:

                  00:00 Introduction and Background

                  02:16 Reasons for Moving Abroad

                  06:06 Early Life in America and Return to Brazil

                  07:29 First Adult Experience Living Abroad in the UK

                  21:24 Life in Portugal and Starting a Business

                  22:20 Living in the UK and France

                  26:04 Experience in Spain and Love for Barcelona

                  31:12 Dreaming of Living in Barcelona

                  34:59 Expectations vs Reality of Living in Barcelona

                  39:48 Staying Connected with Family and Building a Community

                  46:58 Aligning Goals with Expat Destinations

                  50:14 Advice for First-Time Expats


                  57 min
                • Quick Fire Questions: Favorite International Food: Raclette

                  Summary


                  In this quickfire questions episode, James Doran asks Delicia about her favourite place to live, favorite international food, favorite international tradition, best homesickness remedy, the hardest thing about living abroad, best phrase learned while living abroad, best way to make new friends, best thing to do in a new city, and best expat life hack.


                  Takeaways:

                  Living in Santa Cruz, California is Delicia's favorite place she has ever lived because of its location by the ocean and in a redwood forest.

                  Raclette is Delicia's favorite international food, particularly the Swiss style with the giant cheese and scraping it onto veggies.

                  Delicia loves the Christmas markets in Europe and the magical feeling of joy they bring during the holiday season.

                  The people and genuine connections are the best things about living abroad for Delicia.

                  The hardest thing about living abroad for Delicia was missing her mom and the difficulty of communication due to time zones and lack of video calling.

                  Delicia's favorite phrase learned while living abroad is 'good on ya' from Australia.

                  Making new friends is easier when traveling alone and being open to genuine connections.

                  Delicia enjoys exploring her new city by visiting farmers markets, taking walks along the beach, and going downtown where there's always something to do.

                  The best expat life hack for Delicia is to keep connections with friends and family back home while also being open to new experiences and connections abroad.


                  Connect with Us:

                  • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                  • X: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                    • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                    If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                    Chapters:

                    00:00 Introduction and Purpose of Quickfire Questions

                    01:34 Favorite International Food: Raclette

                    02:49 Favorite International Tradition: Christmas Markets in Europe

                    05:31 The People and Genuine Connections

                    07:00 Hardest Thing About Living Abroad: Missing Family

                    08:47 Best Phrase Learned While Living Abroad: 'Good on Ya'

                    10:11 Best Way to Make New Friends: Be Open and Genuine

                    12:03 Best Thing to Do in a New City: Explore and Connect

                    13:00 Expat Life Hack: Keep Connections and Be Open

                    13:57 Conclusion


                    Keywords

                    quickfire questions, living abroad, favourite place, international food, international tradition, homesickness remedy, hardest thing, phrase learned, make new friends, new city, expat life hack

                    14 min
                  • E051 - The Healing Journey: Lessons Learned in Switzerland

                    Summary:

                    Delicia shares her experience of living in Switzerland after travelling through Europe. She talks about her initial trip to Europe and how she fell in love with Switzerland. Delicia then discusses her decision to move back to Switzerland and the challenges she faced in finding work and obtaining a permit. She also shares her experiences of living and working on a farm and dealing with homesickness and health issues. In this conversation, Delicia discusses her healing journey and the impact of his time in Switzerland. She shares how his experiences in Switzerland, including working on a farm and dealing with homesickness, shaped his perspective on life. Delicia emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in different cultures while travelling and the power of personal experiences in understanding history and appreciating people's resilience. She also mentions her book, 'Kissing Asphalt,' and provides information on where to find them.


                    Sound Bites:

                    "This is the kind of prelude to your traveling. It's all the things you needed to do before you moved."

                    "I met so many people. I remember my friend Nadine, who I'm also still friends with. Um, she, she had told me before I left, you know, you have so many friends and I'm like, yeah, but you have a lot of friends too."

                    "I made enough in like, I don't know, a couple of weeks to go back to take the flight home."

                    "My healing journey and all the things that I've learned and kind of why I have Crohn's to begin with"

                    "The most depressed I think I've ever been in my life"

                    "It's the kind of accumulation of all those small things which make you think just seek something that's familiar"


                    Connect with Us:

                    • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                    • X: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                      • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                      If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                      Chapters:

                      00:00 Introduction and Background

                      02:10 Preparing for the Trip and Traveling through Europe

                      10:02 First Experience in Bern and Building Connections

                      20:24 Moving Back to Switzerland and Challenges

                      22:20 Living and Working on a Farm in Switzerland

                      23:47 Dealing with Homesickness and Health Issues

                      25:13 The Healing Journey: Lessons Learned in Switzerland

                      27:10 Dealing with Homesickness and Cultural Differences

                      29:05 The Impact of Small Things and Familiarity

                      31:22 Embracing Different Cultures and TV Shows

                      33:43 Advice to Younger Self: Patience and Research

                      39:37 Appreciating the Resilience of People

                      45:21 Personal Experiences: Understanding History

                      46:45 The Beauty of Traveling and Sharing Experiences

                      49:08 Discover 'Kissing Asphalt'


                      48 min
                    • QFQ - Expat Life Hack: Learn the Language

                      Summary

                      Stephen, a writer who lived in Bangkok, shares his favourite place, food, traditions, and things about living abroad. He also discusses homesickness, the challenges of living abroad, and making new friends. He highlights the best things to do in Bangkok and offers a life hack for expats: learn the language.


                      Takeaways:

                      • Living abroad can be an amazing experience, especially during the honeymoon period.
                      • Thai food, particularly larb, is a favorite international cuisine.
                      • The Thai tradition of the wai, a respectful greeting, is charming.
                      • The constant amazement and learning of living abroad is a major highlight.
                      • Missing certain foods and the freedom to speak out can be challenging.
                      • The impermanence of living abroad and the lack of reliance on the rule of law can be difficult.
                      • Learning the language of the country you're living in can greatly enhance your experience.
                      • Engaging in conversation and finding common interests are great ways to make new friends.
                      • Bangkok offers a vibrant music and comedy scene.
                      • The best way to experience a place is to immerse yourself in its culture and language.

                        • Connect with Us:

                        • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                        • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                        • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                        • X: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                        • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                          • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                          If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                          Chapters:

                          00:00 Introduction

                          02:04 Chapter 2: Favorite Food - Thai Larb

                          03:22 Chapter 4: Favorite Thing About Living Abroad - Constant Amazement

                          04:43 Chapter 5: Homesickness Remedy - Missing Certain Foods and Freedom of Speech

                          06:33 Chapter 6: Challenges of Living Abroad - Impermanence and Lack of Rule of Law

                          08:52 Chapter 7: Best Phrase Learned - Mai Ben Rai

                          09:44 Chapter 8: Making New Friends - Finding Common Interests

                          11:11 Chapter 9: Best Thing to Do in Bangkok - Live Music and Comedy

                          12:39 Chapter 10: Expat Life Hack - Learn the Language

                          13:32 Conclusion


                          14 min
                        • E050 - Exploring the Vibrant Food and Entertainment Scene in Bangkok

                          Summary

                          Stephen, an American expat, shares his experience of living in Thailand for four years. He initially chose Thailand over the Philippines due to the difficulties of living in the latter. Stephen highlights the ease of living in Thailand, the friendly people, and the diverse expat community. He also discusses the importance of understanding visa requirements and finding a reliable way to manage finances while abroad. Stephen emphasizes the value of learning the local language and immersing oneself in the culture. He found joy in joining writing groups, attending meditation classes, and exploring the vibrant food and entertainment scene in Bangkok. Ultimately, Stephen's strong political beliefs led him to return to the United States. In this conversation, Stephen reflects on his time living in Thailand and discusses the reasons for his move, his involvement in politics, and the cultural differences he experienced. He also shares advice for those considering moving abroad and highlights the affordability and opportunities in Thailand.


                          Takeaways:

                          • Living in Thailand offers a comfortable and affordable lifestyle for expats.
                          • Understanding visa requirements and finding reliable financial solutions are crucial for long-term stays abroad.
                          • Learning the local language and immersing oneself in the culture can enhance the expat experience.
                          • Joining expat communities and participating in local activities can help build a social network and make the transition easier.
                          • Exploring the diverse food and entertainment scene in the host country adds to the overall enjoyment of living abroad.
                          • Personal beliefs and political leanings can influence the decision to stay or return to one's home country. Living abroad can provide opportunities for personal growth and new experiences.
                          • It is important to research and understand the culture and cost of living in the country you plan to move to.
                          • Maintaining connections with friends and family back home is important, and technology can help bridge the distance.
                          • The political and cultural landscape of a country can change over time, and it is important to be aware of these changes.
                          • Thailand offers an affordable lifestyle and opportunities for expats.


                            • Connect with Us:

                            • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                            • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                            • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                            • Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                            • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                              • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                              If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                              Chapters:

                              00:00 Introduction and Background

                              01:56 Choosing Thailand as a Destination

                              06:02 Settling in Bangkok and Exploring Thailand

                              08:18 Visa Requirements and Financial Management

                              09:16 Insurance and Healthcare Considerations

                              10:41 Managing Properties and Belongings

                              13:02 Preparing for the Move and Informing Contacts

                              20:05 Language Learning and Embracing the Culture

                              23:29 Expat Community and Socializing

                              28:58 Reasons for Staying and Returning Home

                              29:52 Reflections on Living Abroad in Thailand

                              30:45 Involvement in Politics and Cultural Differences

                              32:35 The Affordable Lifestyle in Thailand

                              34:00 Maintaining Connections with Home

                              47:03 The Changing Political Landscape

                              51:43 Advice for Those Considering Moving Abroad

                              55:28 James Doran's Books on Expat Life in Bangkok



                              59 min
                            • Quick Fire Questions - Finding Joy in a New Hometown with Natacha

                              Summary


                              Natasha, a French person who has lived in both the UK and America, shares her favorite places to live, favorite international food, and favorite international tradition. She also discusses the challenges of living abroad and offers tips for making new friends and dealing with homesickness. Natasha emphasizes the importance of staying curious and reaching out to others for support. Overall, the conversation highlights the unique experiences and perspectives gained from living in different countries.


                              Takeaways

                              • Living abroad offers the opportunity to experience different cultures and gain new perspectives.
                              • Finding local bookstores and exploring botanical gardens are enjoyable activities in a new city.
                              • Online communities can be a great way to make new friends, no matter where you are.
                              • Staying connected with loved ones through technology can help alleviate homesickness.
                              • Doing research before moving abroad is important, but it's also important to be flexible and adaptable.
                              • Reaching out for support and talking to others about your experiences is completely normal and helpful.


                                • Sound Bites

                                • "Any opportunity we have together, regardless of our culture, of our beliefs. Do we get to be together and have a good time and go for it?"
                                • "Being that far away from my parents because the visiting you just don't get on the Eurostar and cross over, you know, or just take a train."
                                • "Can you hand me the shredded fridge please? Because in my tired brain, fridge sounded closer to fromage."


                                  • Connect with Us:

                                  • Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod 

                                  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022 

                                  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/ 

                                  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod

                                  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/ 

                                    • Subscribe, Rate, and Review:

                                    If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.


                                    Chapters:

                                    00:00 Introduction and Favorite Places to Live

                                    01:22 Favorite International Food and Tradition

                                    04:11 Making New Friends and Staying Connected

                                    09:07 Finding Joy in a New Hometown

                                    11:31 Tips for a Successful Expat Life


                                    Keywords

                                    living abroad, favorite places, international food, international tradition, challenges, making friends, homesickness, tips



                                    15 min
                                  • E049 - From the UK to the US: Completing a PhD in Humanities

                                    Summary

                                    Natasha shares her experiences of moving from France to the UK and then to the US for her studies. In the UK, she pursued a master's degree in digital culture and technology, while in the US, she completed her PhD in humanities. She discusses the application process, language tests, and the cost of education in both countries. Natasha also talks about the cultural differences she encountered and the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. She highlights the importance of socializing and making connections with both international and local students. In this conversation, James and Natasha discuss various aspects of living abroad, including the differences between campus universities and city universities, the process of obtaining residency and citizenship, the challenges of working life in the US, and the experience of being a vegetarian in different countries. They also touch on the importance of finding a balance between exploring new experiences and maintaining familiar hobbies, as well as the differences in political systems between France and the US.
                                    Takeaways
                                    Moving to a new country for education requires careful planning and preparation, including language tests and visa applications.
                                    The cost of education can vary significantly between countries, and it's important to consider scholarships and funding options.
                                    Cultural differences can be both exciting and challenging, but making connections with both international and local students can help ease the transition.
                                    Living in a university town or city can provide a sheltered experience, and it's important to explore and engage with the local community to get a broader understanding of the country.
                                    Socializing and making friends with people from different backgrounds can enrich the overall experience of studying abroad. Choosing a program or job that aligns with your interests and values is important when moving abroad.
                                    Feeling homesick is normal and seeking professional help can be beneficial.
                                    Maintaining familiar hobbies and interests can provide a sense of comfort and balance in a new environment.
                                    The political systems and cultural norms can vary significantly between countries.
                                    Being a vegetarian can be easier in some countries compared to others.
                                    Finding a balance between exploring new experiences and maintaining familiar routines is key to a successful life abroad.
                                    Connect with Us:
                                    Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod
                                    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022
                                    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/
                                    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod
                                    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/
                                    Subscribe, Rate, and Review:
                                    If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.
                                    Chapters
                                    00:00 Introduction and Background
                                    01:15 From France to the UK: Pursuing a Master's Degree in Digital Culture and Technology
                                    11:52 Navigating the Application Process and Language Tests
                                    24:47 Adapting to Cultural Differences and Making Connections
                                    29:59 Exploring Beyond the University: Experiencing the Real America
                                    38:49 Choosing the Right Program or Job Abroad
                                    43:32 Dealing with Homesickness and Seeking Support
                                    49:46 Finding Balance in a New Environment
                                    57:28 Differences in Political Systems
                                    01:00:41 The Experience of Being a Vegetarian Abroad

                                    1 hr 20 min
                                  • QFQ - Expat Life Hack: Working Online with Megan

                                    Summary:

                                    Megan discusses her favorite place to live, favorite international food, favorite international tradition, favorite thing about living abroad, best homesickness remedy, hardest thing about living abroad, best phrase she's learned, best way of making new friends, best thing to do in her new city, and her best expat life hack.
                                    Find out more about the amazing work Megan does on https://writtenprogress.com/

                                    Takeaways:
                                    Montpellier, France is Megan's favorite place to live because of its size, diversity, and proximity to the Mediterranean.
                                    Megan loves Indian food and has enjoyed it in various countries.
                                    Her favorite international tradition is the Paraguayan Easter celebration, which involves making a unique cheesy bread called chippa.
                                    Speaking a foreign language and discovering who she is in another language is Megan's favorite part of living abroad.
                                    Megan's homesickness remedy is making American treats, particularly pumpkin-flavored dishes.
                                    The hardest thing about living abroad for Megan is sorting out the unsaid and understanding cultural nuances.
                                    Megan has learned meaningful phrases in Spanish and appreciates their unique translations.
                                    Dancing, particularly salsa, is Megan's best way of making new friends in a new place.
                                    The best thing to do in Montpellier is to explore the pedestrianized downtown area and enjoy the architecture.
                                    Megan's expat life hack is working online, which allows her to take her job with her anywhere.
                                    Sound Bites:
                                    "Montpellier in France, where I live now. Since I've been here for almost five years, that would suggest that I really like it."
                                    "I love Indian food."
                                    "Paraguayans celebrate Easter by making this really unique cheesy bread called chippa."
                                    Connect with Us:
                                    Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod
                                    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022
                                    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/
                                    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod
                                    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/
                                    Subscribe, Rate, and Review:
                                    If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat.
                                    Chapters
                                    00:00 Favorite Place to Live: Montpellier, France
                                    01:33 Favorite International Food: Indian Cuisine
                                    04:17 Favorite Thing About Living Abroad: Speaking a Foreign Language
                                    05:16 Best Homesickness Remedy: Making American Treats
                                    06:12 Hardest Thing About Living Abroad: Sorting Out the Unsaid
                                    07:58 Best Phrase Learned: Cada Loco Con Su Tema
                                    09:21 Best Way of Making New Friends: Dancing
                                    10:17 Best Thing to Do in Montpellier: Explore the Pedestrianized Downtown
                                    11:35 Expat Life Hack: Working Online

                                    13 min

                                  About The Expat Pod

                                  From the publisher's feed

                                  Welcome to "The Expat Pod!" Hosted by James Doran, our podcast explores the ins and outs of expat life, featuring stories, interviews, and tips for living abroad. Subscribe for new episodes every week and join our global community of expats and travellers.