In this insightful episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Eden, who made the significant move from Israel to Germany. The episode kicks off with the intriguing question of why Eden chose Germany, given its complex history, and delves into her personal journey and the factors that influenced her decision.

Eden shares her experiences of relocating to Leipzig in 2017, including various reasons that prompted her and her husband to leave Israel. She describes the extensive research and interviews they conducted to find the right city, ultimately discovering Leipzig through a YouTube video that highlighted its vibrant, youthful atmosphere and affordable living conditions.

The conversation also covers the cultural shocks Eden faced, from the quietness of German cities to the challenges of learning the local dialect. She opens up about her initial struggles with the language and the unexpected warmth she encountered from the German people, contrary to the harsh tones often depicted in movies.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the practical aspects of moving abroad, such as finding an apartment, dealing with bureaucracy, and integrating into a new community. Eden talks about her role in the Israeli community in Leipzig and how her relocation experience inspired her to start a relocation agency, Over The Ofek, which helps others navigate the complexities of moving to Germany.

Eden also shares her passion for music and how she and her husband started a swing metal band called Shoo Bee Doom. The episode wraps up with practical advice for making friends in a new country, tailored for both extroverts and introverts, and a discussion on the challenges and rewards of living in Germany.

If you're considering a move to Germany or simply curious about the expat experience, this episode is packed with useful information and heartfelt stories. Don't miss the links to Eden's band and relocation agency in the show notes.

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: Israel, Germany, Leipzig, Expat Life, Cultural Adaptation, Moving Abroad, Relocation Agency, Bureaucracy, German Culture, Language Learning, Community Building, Personal Growth, Swing Metal Band, Shoo bee Doom, Over the Ofek, International Living, Cultural Differences, Expat Podcast, Living in Germany, Integration, New Beginnings, Relocation Challenges, Making friends as introvert, Hypezig, Moving to Germany, Relocating to Germany

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

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(00:00) Welcome to a new episode of Ross Collide

(00:45) Introduction to Eden's story

(01:30) Eden's move from Israel to Germany

(02:50) Why Germany? The elimination process

(04:15) Economic, religious, and political reasons for leaving Israel

(06:10) Discovering Leipzig and initial impressions

(07:30) Cultural shocks and language barriers

(10:00) The quietness of German cities

(12:00) Dealing with the Saxonian accent

(14:00) Reactions to being Israeli in Germany

(16:30) Bureaucracy and visa challenges

(20:00) The importance of community and making friends

(23:00) Starting a relocation agency

(25:00) Eden's swing metal band Shoo Bee Doom

(28:00) Challenges of German bureaucracy

(30:00) Myths about Germany and reality checks

(32:00) The use of cash in Germany

(35:00) Final thoughts and advice for expats

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

and Band Shoo Bee Doom if you like Swing Metal

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria introduces us to Cathrine, a remarkable woman who transitioned from the bustling city of Manila to the tranquil town of Engelholm in southern Sweden. Cathrine's story begins amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, and she shares the unique challenges and stark contrasts she faced moving from a tropical, densely populated metropolis to a quiet, small town in Scandinavia.

Cathrine opens up about her journey, detailing the cultural adjustments she had to make. From learning to cope with Sweden's long, dark winters to embracing the local practice of "fika," a cherished coffee break tradition, Cathrine's experiences offer a deep dive into the nuances of Swedish life. She also discusses the importance of building a community, revealing how she found solace and friendship through local expat groups and her initiative, "Cooking for Integration," where expats come together to share their cultural heritage through food.

Listeners will find Cathrine's narrative both relatable and inspiring, particularly her reflections on the importance of maintaining one's cultural identity while adapting to a new environment. Her story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in a foreign land.

For those contemplating a move to Sweden or simply interested in the expat experience, Cathrine's insights provide valuable lessons on navigating cultural differences, building new relationships, and finding balance between the fast-paced digital world and the serene physical surroundings of a small town.

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: Manila, Sweden, Engelholm, Expat Life, COVID-19, Cultural Adaptation, Small Town Life, Swedish Culture, Fika, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Community Building, Personal Growth, Moving Abroad, Living in Sweden, Expat Podcast, International Living, Cultural Differences, Cooking for Integration, Remote Work, Sustainability, Family Dynamics, Culture Clash, Contrasts, Climate Contrast, Culture Contrast

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

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(00:00) Hello. Hello. Welcome. Hi, guys.

(01:15) Introduction to Catherine's story

(02:40) Catherine's move from Manila to Engelholm

(04:12) Differences in culture and environment

(06:05) Living through the COVID-19 pandemic

(08:30) Adjusting to Swedish weather and seasons

(10:45) Embracing local traditions like fika

(13:20) Building a community through expat groups

(15:50) Cooking for Integration initiative

(18:15) Challenges of learning Swedish

(21:00) Balancing digital work with small town life

(24:30) Reflections on missing the Philippines

(27:10) Importance of sustainability in Sweden

(30:00) Differences in social norms and communication

(33:20) Making friends and integrating into local life

(37:00) Final thoughts and future plans

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

In this enlightening episode of Worlds Collide, host Victoria sits down with Ron, an expatriate from Canada who has made China his home for now. This episode marks a special occasion as Ron is our first guest currently residing in China. Through their engaging conversation, listeners will gain a unique perspective on life as an expat in China, the cultural adjustments, and the challenges of living in a vastly different society.

Ron shares his journey from initially having no interest in Asia to falling in love with the vibrant life in China. He recounts his experiences traveling through various parts of China, from Shenzhen to the borders of North Korea and Vietnam. His story is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the importance of challenging one’s own preconceptions.

The episode delves into the practical aspects of Ron’s life in China, including the technological advancements that make daily life incredibly convenient, such as digital payments and comprehensive mobile apps. Ron also discusses the complexities of visa regulations in Asia and the transient nature of expatriate life in the region.

Listeners will find valuable insights into the cultural nuances of doing business in China, the importance of relationships, and the societal norms that differ significantly from North America. Ron’s candid reflections on the limitations of permanent residency in Asia and the importance of having a backup plan for the future are particularly thought-provoking.

For those interested in the expat experience in China or contemplating a move to Asia, Ron’s narrative offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to discover how one man’s decision to explore a new world has led to a life filled with unexpected adventures and profound personal growth.

Check out Ron's YouTube Channel NearShoreLiving!

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: Canada, China, Expat Life, Cultural Adaptation, Shenzhen, Digital Nomad, Technological Advancements, Visa Regulations in China, Transient Lifestyle, Business in China, Relationship-Based Business, Personal Growth, Moving Abroad, Living in China, Asian Culture, Global Middle Class, Travel Experiences, International Living, Cultural Differences, Expat Podcast, Expats in China, Moving to China, Westerners in China, Americans in China, Canadians in China

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

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(00:00) This is the first episode where I have a guest in China

(04:51) M. I. traveled around China on that trip for about four months

(07:48) You have not settled in one place in China

(09:00) Most of Asia, you're usually here on some kind of visa

(11:30) Some people make plans long term in Asia, others don't

(16:10) A lot of foreigners in China are just doing business with the outside world

(17:16) You are originally from Canada, and do you go back often

(18:24) You left China during COVID to move to Argentina

(20:18) In Asia, most Asians cannot tell each other apart, right

(23:37) Is there anything that you miss about Canada that you don't like

(28:11) Is there anything else that you miss when you're away from home

(30:24) A lot of expats complain about the place when they move abroad

(33:13) Business in China is very relationship based, similar to Germany and Japan

(37:48) Everything is digital here. Seven years ago, everything was digital

(42:06) You've traveled to Venezuela, North Korea, Russia, China

(46:24) I came to China not knowing anything about China

(49:10) So you also just had, like, you are very western guy

(49:51) All right, I guess I got all my questions. Thanks for your time. And definitely subscribe. Worlds collide on YouTube

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

In this unique episode of Worlds Collide, we explore the journey of Doctor Alika McGuire, who transitioned from the serene landscapes of Hawaii to a life in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite staying within the same country, Alika's move is a testament to the vast cultural and environmental differences that exist within the United States. Join us as we delve into Alika's motivations, challenges, and triumphs as he navigates life away from the island paradise of Hawaii.

Alika shares how his passion for volleyball and a desire to pursue an education and career opportunities on the mainland. We discuss the cultural shocks he experienced, from greeting customs to the diversity of people and food. Alika also opens up about the bittersweet moments of missing family milestones and the emotional impact of being away from home during significant events like the lava flows in Hawaii.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices and growth that come with such a drastic move. Alika's story is not just about relocation but about finding one's identity and embracing new opportunities while staying connected to one's roots. Whether you're curious about the logistics of moving within the U.S., the cultural nuances between states, or simply love a good story of personal growth, this episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights.

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: Hawaii, St. Louis, Cultural Differences, Volleyball, Family, Career Transition, Chiropractic Care, Midwestern Life, Personal Growth, Moving Within the U.S., Island Life, Education, Strict Upbringing, Climate Change, Cultural Adaptation, Expat Podcast, Mainland Transition, Hawaiian Culture, Diversity, Local Communities, Personal Sacrifices, Relocation Challenges, Studying

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

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(00:00) Welcome to Worlds Collide, the podcast where I talk to people who moved abroad

(01:29) Doctor Alika McGuire recently moved from Hawaii to Missouri

(03:03) Why did you move to Missouri from Hawaii? I get that question a lot

(08:15) Adam's first experience in the mainland was packing his bags in Colorado

(14:04) Since you went to public school in Hawaii, did they not teach you how to greet

(16:13) I don't think my parents would have allowed me if I asked them to

(21:38) So I have two questions from this story that you just told me

(26:11) Growing up in a strict household, I didn't get to do a lot of things

(31:08) M. M. started applying for chiropractic school in California

(35:18) You moved from Colorado to St. Louis after graduating from college

(38:05) I hate when it gets cold so much. The cold is not something you want to hear me complain about

(39:01) How do students make friends in the Midwest? Just find an activity

(42:38) One thing you don't get used to is cultural appropriation

(44:11) A lot of locals have moved out of Hawaii because they can't afford Hawaii

(50:36) Do your parents come visit you now since you were gone for so long

(52:20) Are you from Honolulu or from a bigger city

(56:59) Alika says one thing he never got used to about Hawaii is communication

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

In this engaging episode of Worlds Collide, I sit down with Pavel, a native of Belarus who has made a new home in the picturesque, sun-soaked city of Alanya, Turkey. Pavel's story is a fascinating journey from the political upheaval in the neighboring war in the Ukraine to the tranquil, yet vibrant life in a Turkish coastal town. Listeners will gain a wealth of knowledge about Turkish culture, from the unique "taxi buttons" to the warm hospitality that makes Turkey a welcoming haven for expatriates.

Pavel shares his family's quick decision to move following the outbreak of war, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of relocating with children. Discover how his kids are adapting to local schools and how Pavel manages his career as a co-founder of a software company, all while navigating life in a new country.

Throughout the episode, you'll hear the ambient sounds of Alanya, adding an authentic charm to Pavel's vivid descriptions of daily life, local customs, and the unexpected surprises of living in Turkey. Whether you're curious about the logistics of moving abroad, the cultural nuances of Turkish life, or simply love a good expat story, this episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights.

For anyone considering a move to Turkey or intrigued by the life of expatriates, Pavel’s narrative is both informative and inspiring. Tune in to hear how one family's world collided with a new culture, leading to a life filled with new opportunities and adventures.

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: Belarus, Turkey, Alanya, Expat Life, Political Crisis, War, Family Move, Cultural Adaptation, Turkish Culture, Taxi Buttons, Residency Permit, International Schools, Software Development, Remote Work, Community Building, Personal Growth, Moving Abroad, Living in Turkey, Turkish Hospitality, Climate Adaptation, Earthquakes, Cultural Differences, Expat Podcast, Moving to Alanya, Moving to Turkey, Living in Turkey, Expats in Turkey

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

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(00:00) Worlds Collide is a podcast where I talk to people who moved abroad

(01:10) My guest is Pavel, and he lives currently in Turkey

(03:43) Tell me, where are you calling from right now?

(05:23) What brought you to Turkey in the first place?

(07:43) How did you manage the quick move with your family?

(11:04) Settling in: from short-term rentals to a long-term home

(12:23) How are your kids adapting to school in Turkey?

(13:37) Making connections in a tourist city

(16:05) Learning Turkish and navigating daily life

(19:28) The unique "taxi button" system in Turkey

(25:14) Missing the tech community from Minsk

(29:12) Adapting to the Turkish climate and lifestyle

(32:51) Experiencing earthquakes in Turkey

(35:09) Cultural differences: Turkish tea and hospitality

(39:29) Future plans and the possibility of moving back

(45:00) Final thoughts and invitation to visit Alanya

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

In this compelling episode of Worlds Collide, I sit down with Richard, a tenacious educator who, alongside his family, made the leap from the familiar streets of Austin, Texas to the historic and culturally rich landscapes of the Netherlands. Richard's odyssey began not out of wanderlust, but necessity, as the escalating costs of living in Austin pushed him to seek a life elsewhere – a journey that took him across the ocean to a new home in Breda.

Richard's narrative is not just about the move itself, but the intricate logistics of uprooting a family and establishing roots in a foreign land. Listeners with a curiosity about the Dutch lifestyle, or those contemplating a similar move, will find Richard's insights on navigating the Dutch housing market, the education system, and the DAFT visa – a unique opportunity for Americans starting a business in the Netherlands – particularly valuable.

Throughout the episode, Richard shares the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture, from the intimate cultural nuances like the significance of open curtains in Dutch homes to the broader societal differences he and his family have embraced. His story is a testament to the resilience and growth that come from stepping into the unknown.

For anyone who has ever considered a drastic change in pursuit of a better life, or for those simply fascinated by the courage of those who do, Richard's journey is a beacon of possibility. Tune in to discover how one family's decision to collide with a new world has reshaped their lives, and perhaps, how it could reshape yours.

If you're interested in sharing your own story of moving abroad, reach out to us at [email protected] or connect via Instagram or TikTok. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Daft Visa Info here!

Keywords: Netherlands, Austin Texas, DAFT Visa, Expat Life, Cultural Adaptation, Family Move, International Relocation, Breda, Dutch Culture, Education Abroad, Housing Market, Entrepreneurship, American Expatriates, Cultural Challenges, Work-Life Abroad, Language Barriers, Community Building, Personal Growth, International Living, Embracing Change, Family Move to The Netherlands, Social Benefits in The Netherlands, Moving to Europe, Living Abroad, Interracial Family, Expat Podcast.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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(00:00) World Collide is a podcast where I talk to people who moved abroad

(00:49) This week's episode features a guest from the Netherlands, Richard

(01:53) My guest today is Richard from Breda, Netherlands

(04:10) What brought you to the Netherlands in the first place? So, basically

(06:27) Okay, so, okay, so you are trying to build a house

(09:14) Did you have a place already where you. We did. Um, we found a place before we moved

(11:17) If you are the spouse of a person on daft,

(17:01) I have to teach in Dutch sometimes because I have a local student

(18:25) Making the leap from America to the Netherlands is incredibly scary

(24:01) The Netherlands provide childcare so that your child learns Dutch

(28:01) Even the biggest nationalists sometimes get pushback for trying to learn Dutch

(30:53) There is an expectation that your curtain needs to be open a little

(33:53) I like noticing little things that are different about the Netherlands than the United States

(37:29) How long did it take you to decide to leave the United States

(42:18) The weather here is actually not cold, but it's raining. That is a plus

(45:30) I miss driving, but that's something I need to do better

(48:17) Victoria says learning Dutch is easy when you're surrounded by it

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

In this eye-opening episode of Worlds Collide, we delve into the life of Kevin, a seasoned globe-trotter who has found his current haven in the sun-drenched landscapes of Thailand. With a history of living in a staggering 14 countries, Kevin's story is a tapestry of cultural assimilation and the art of making anywhere feel like home.

Kevin's journey takes us from the bustling streets of Bangkok, where he transitioned from an intern to a full-time hotel manager, to the serene shores of a remote Thai island. He opens up about the initial cultural shock, the challenges of managing a team in a new country, and the pivot from hospitality to software engineering that now allows him to embrace a remote working lifestyle.

Listeners will be transported to the vibrant and sometimes chaotic life in Thailand, from navigating traffic in Bangkok to the reckless abandon of tourists on scooters. Kevin also shares his strategies for building a community of friends in new places and how his unique upbringing has shaped his adaptability and thirst for change.

Whether you're an expat, a digital nomad, or simply a wanderlust-filled soul, Kevin's insights into the nuances of Thai life, the complexities of identity, and the allure of new horizons will captivate and inspire. For more stories of lives intertwined with the fabric of different cultures, reach out to us at [email protected], or join our engaging community on Instagram @worldscollidepod.

Find Kevins Social Network Platform for Expats ---> Host here !

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review, and don't miss out on next week's episode, where we continue to explore the personal tales of those who've dared to venture beyond their borders. Until then, let's keep colliding with the world, one story at a time.

Keywords: Thailand, Bangkok, Expat Life, Remote Island Living, Cultural Shock, Software Engineering, Hospitality Industry, Remote Working, Community Building, Travel, Global Citizen, Cultural Assimilation, Digital Nomad, Transition, Adaptability, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Personal Growth, Cultural Exploration, Expatriate Challenges, International Living, Adventure, Moving Abroad, Thai Culture, Quality of Life, Safety, Traffic in Bangkok, Tourist Behavior, Starting Over, Cultural Identity, Work Visa, Tourism Visa, Border Run, Living in Koh Phangan,

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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(00:00) Worlds Collide is a podcast where I talk to people living abroad

(01:10) My guest is Kevin, and he lives currently in Thailand

(02:39) You're currently on a remote island away from the mainland

(03:43) So where are you from originally and what brought you to Thailand

(05:23) All right, so what were all the countries that you lived in

(06:29) Recently Thailand has been feeling like home for you

(07:43) You applied for an internship in Thailand and now you're working remotely

(11:04) How was settling in back in Bangkok after you finished in Switzerland

(12:23) Did you have a place to live right away? Yes. Right. So, uh, before I actually came to Switzerland,

(12:55) Making friends in Bangkok started with becoming friends with coworkers

(13:37) Every time I travel, everyone automatically associates me to be a local

(16:05) Learning Thai was mostly by communicating with colleagues, who are mostly Thai

(19:28) There was definitely a culture shock when you first went to Thailand

(25:14) Is there anything that you really miss from other places where you lived

(29:12) Overall, Thailand is very, very safe, I think

(32:51) How much would you pay for a loaf of bread in Thailand

(35:09) A lot of people make comparisons between Thailand and other Western countries

(35:42) So tell me about your, you when you live there and your day to day life

(38:22) So, um, how do you feel of leaving all your stuff behind

(42:27) Victoria: Thanks for sharing your story about traveling to Thailand

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

In this captivating episode of Worlds Collide, we're joined by Nicole, who shares her intriguing tale of transitioning from the cobblestone streets of Germany to the paths of Asunción, Paraguay. With her husband's teaching position, Nicole takes us through the whirlwind of their move and the cultural tapestry that is Paraguay—a country often overlooked by the South American traveler.

Nicole delves into the nuances of Paraguayan life, from the surprising strong presence of German culture to the kindness and warmth of the local people. She contrasts the rigid punctuality of Germany with the more fluid sense of time in Paraguay, revealing her journey of adaptation and the unexpected joys of embracing a different pace of life.

Listeners will be enthralled by Nicole's stories of navigating a new language, the rich food culture, and the challenges of driving in Paraguay. She also gives a nod to her podcast, The Expat Cast, where she explores the experiences of living abroad, not just in Paraguay but globally. Find Nicoles Podcast The Expat Cast here and you can find her as well on Instagram @TheExpatCast!

The movie with Emma Watson and Daniel Brühl is called "The Colony"

Whether you're a seasoned expat, considering a move abroad, or simply fascinated by the rich diversity of global living, Nicole's story is a testament to the beauty of embracing the unknown and finding home in unexpected places. For more stories of life across borders, reach out to us at [email protected], or join our community on Instagram @worldscollidepod.

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review, and be sure to tune in next week for more episodes that bridge cultures and connect us through shared experiences. Until next time, keep exploring and celebrating the world's hidden corners—one story at a time.

Keywords: Paraguay, Germany, Expat Life, Cultural Adaptation, Teaching Abroad, German Culture in South America, Language Learning, South American Travel, Paraguayan Kindness, The Expat Cast, Podcasting, Moving Abroad, Cultural Exploration, Bilingual Country, Guarani Language, Mennonite Community, Cultural Shock, Time Perception, International Living, Homesickness, Life Transitions, Nazi History of South America, Cults in Paraguay, Life in Paraguay, diplomatic passport

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration in these stories of cultural exploration and personal growth. Until next episode, keep embracing the new chapters that life abroad unfolds.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) Could you give me a five star review on Spotify or Apple podcast

(01:04) Nicole moved to Paraguay a year ago with her husband

(01:37) Nicole moved from the United States to Germany in 2017

(04:29) You moved to Germany after your relationship ended after a couple years

(07:19) Why Paraguay? Why did you decide on Paraguay

(12:05) Moving from Germany to Paraguay was quite a long process

(16:57) In Germany, certain appliances are provided, but not all

(21:16) It's totally different from my library job, but, I mean, I also ran a podcast for years

(21:43) So what's the plan on staying temporarily in Germany? I'm not sure

(22:27) Nicole started her podcast after moving to Germany in 2017

(26:18) Did you build a social, like a social circle already in Paraguay

(28:20) People say the hardest Spanish to understand is Chilean. I think Paraguay is even more difficult

(31:37) Paraguay is a bilingual country with two languages: Spanish and Guarani

(32:58) Do you get by with this amount of Spanish that you speak right now

(37:38) How many normal people that speak German surprise you when moving to Pennsylvania

(39:21) Paraguay's response to COVID was not casual

(41:44) Your first big cultural shock came when you arrived in Paraguay

(44:54) Paraguay is a really cool mixture of certain aspects of the culture

(49:58) The driving in Paraguay is crazy, but everyone here is extremely happy

(55:57) There are definitely things that I miss, but I am planning to return to Germany

(59:47) People will come to South America, spend three to six months traveling

(01:01:44) Nikole: I hope you enjoyed this really interesting part about Paraguay

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Thank you for joining us for another episode of Worlds Collide. Share your own stories of life abroad and join the conversation. Until our next journey, fare thee well.

In this enriching episode of Worlds Collide, we embark on a globe-trotting journey with Alex, whose life's tapestry is woven with vibrant threads from Mexico, Belgium, Ireland, and the United States. Alex talks about his childhood, his academic pursuits across continents, and the love story that transcended borders.

Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Alex's early life was sprinkled with frequent moves and a taste for adventure, instilled by his father's spontaneous spirit. His quest for education and opportunities led him to the United States at 19, where he navigated the complexities of studying and working. His story unfolds further as he delves into his experiences in Belgium, where he battled the gray skies and embraced the blunt directness of local culture while pursuing his master's degree and later moved on further to Dublin for his PhD.

Alex's narrative takes a romantic turn when he crosses paths with Rachel, a previous guest on our podcast, whose artistic journey from Paris to DC was featured in an earlier episode.

Listeners will be captivated by Alex's reflections on the contrasting lifestyles of Europe and America, the nuances of expatriate life, and the heartwarming tale of how a casual evening led to a life-changing decision to marry Rachel.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler, an expat in the making, or simply a seeker of heartfelt stories that span the globe, this episode offers a window into a life lived without borders. Connect with us to share your thoughts at [email protected], and join our community on Instagram @worldscollidepod for more tales of cultural convergence.

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review, and stay tuned for more episodes that celebrate the diversity and common humanity found in our shared global village.

Keywords: Mexico, Belgium, Ireland, United States, International Student, Expat Life, Cultural Adaptation, International Romance, Education Abroad, Global Citizen, Cross-Cultural Relationships, Expatriate Challenges, Nomadic Lifestyle, Big Mac Index, Irish History, International Careers, Moving Abroad, Cultural Identity, Life Transitions, Love Story, Global Nomad, Academic Journey, International Living, Cost of Living, Repatriation, Home and Belonging, Studying Abroad,

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Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find inspiration and insight in these stories. Until next week, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) World Collide is a podcast about moving abroad

(01:25) This week's podcast features guest Alex from Mexico

(02:23) Alex is from Mexico and moved to the United States when he was 19

(04:49) Rachel came to the United States when she was 19 to study electrical engineering

(10:38) You studied engineering at Maryland but eventually moved to Delaware for a master's

(16:42) Your first language was English and your second language was French

(21:23) All my papers went through Ireland as if I was an European Union resident

(24:28) So how long were you then in Belgium? About four years

(29:44) Flanders and Wallonia are very different. How are they different

(32:27) Belgium is a very densely packed country with lots of cities

(35:01) When you move to Ireland, it's difficult to make friends

(39:31) The Troubles ended in 2002, but the Good Friday agreement wasn't signed

(43:32) You worked in Ireland for about six years as an economist

(44:38) The first time that I visited my parents in Ireland was super expensive

(48:27) And so what happened then after Ireland? Well, to be quite honest, we were thinking of staying

(50:02) You were in turkey for a while, right? Yes, yes

(54:06) Everything changed after COVID, right? Travel stopped completely

(56:21) Washington DC itself is very small, only about maybe 10 square miles

(01:01:03) Were you ever thinking of moving to France, for instance where Rachel is from

(01:07:06) Have you ever seen lost in translation when going on vacation

(01:08:12) Rachel: I just did some googling about Big Mac prices

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

You can support this Podcast by buying host Viktoria a cup of coffee --> https://buymeacoffee.com/worldscollidepod

In this invigorating episode of Worlds Collide, join me as I welcome Monica and John, who recently traded the familiar streets of Portland, Oregon, for the charming canals of Amsterdam. Just six weeks into their Dutch journey, they share the thrills of their transition, the nuances of navigating a new country, and the excitement of embracing the Dutch way of life.

Monica, an innovative writing coach, and John, a software engineer, dive into their decision to move under the Dutch American Friendship Treaty visa, which allows Monica to spearhead her business in the Netherlands. They recount the initial hurdles of settling in, while battling the local germs to the simplicity and challenges of their new Life in Amsterdam.

The couple also offers a candid look at the cultural differences they've encountered, including the Dutch directness and the nation's love for bicycles. They share their strategies for building a social circle in a new city, utilizing platforms like Facebook groups and Bumble BFF, and the unexpected connections that arise from being open and proactive.

While they express a deep appreciation for the safety and community-oriented lifestyle in Amsterdam, they also touch on what they miss from back home, giving us a balanced perspective on expat life.

If you've ever considered a move to the Netherlands, are curious about the realities of starting over in a new country, or simply enjoy tales of cultural exploration, this episode is a must-listen. For more stories of bold moves and cultural curiosity, reach out to us at [email protected], or join the conversation on Instagram @worldscollidepod. And don't forget to follow us for more inspiring content on TikTok and Threads.

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review, and tune in next week for another episode that bridges the gap between cultures. Until then, keep seeking the world's hidden gems—one story at a time.

Keywords: Netherlands, Holland, Amsterdam, Expat Life, Dutch American Friendship Treaty, DAFT Visa, Cultural Differences, Biking Culture, Social Integration, Entrepreneurship, Software Engineering, Moving Abroad, Community, Adjustment, Networking, International Living, Adventure, Cultural Exploration, Expat Challenges, Settling In, Dutch Directness, Safety, Quality of Life, Work Culture, American Expats, Personal Growth, Dutch Language Learning, Housing Market, Moving Abroad with Cats, Living Abroad, Living in Amsterdam

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) Why don't you leave me a five star rating on iTunes or Spotify

(01:11) John and Monica moved to Amsterdam a few weeks ago

(01:48) Monica and John from the United States are calling from Amsterdam

(03:15) Monica moved from California to Oregon to start a writing business

(05:56) Okay, so, um, tell me a little bit more about the visa

(09:04) Why did you guys decide on Amsterdam for so many reasons

(11:17) So how long were you thinking about moving abroad? Because you just said

(14:45) So what has been your experience so far? How was settling in Amsterdam

(18:45) You got the apartment and everything settled in, what else did you have to take care of

(22:35) How did you meet people through Facebook groups and Bumblebeeff

(24:44) I tried to write letters to our neighbors to, like, try to get neighbors

(27:06) M John, is the application process different in the Netherlands than in the US

(28:51) Have you guys figured out the difference between Netherlands and Holland

(30:17) Is there anything cliche that you like about living in Europe

(35:28) I think some people are scared of change. I think that's like the opposite of us

(35:56) Is there anything that you miss about America that you don't miss

(38:43) What is the vacation time in the Netherlands? Five weeks? Maybe 2025 days

(41:33) Are you planning on visiting your family soon? Maybe your family will

(44:38) So do you feel like already, uh, settling is almost done

(46:12) All right. I think, um, I got most of my questions answered

(46:52) Okay, so now, I did a little bit of research on Netherlands and Holland

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