[Singel]

Just sharing my experience with living overseas..................

A few years ago, I accepted a job offer from the UK even though I have no relative or friend there. I was going to start a new life alone which seems daunting to me at that time. :roll: :uhoh :eek :wah

My workplace was located in the city centre and my rented place was within walking distance from my office. I found out that most of my British colleagues lived outside the city and I was told that most of the foreigners lived in the city. Determined to live like a local Brits, I bought a house in a small village (about 50 houses with one shop and a pub) and took an hour drive to work every day during peak hours.

I was invited to participate in all the social activities/charitable events organised by the village and made a lot of friends there. I remember walking passed some houses there and stopped to admire their home-grown vegetables and lovely gardens. Much to my surprise, the home owners gave some vegetables and plants to me on the spot.

I also bought some groceries from the one and only shop there, so that it could survive the competition from the big supermarket. I do not mind paying more for the groceries to keep the local shop alive so that it could continue to serve this small and wonderful community.

I enjoyed myself so much in this village that until today, I still think about it. :nice1 :P

No words could describe the happiness that I get from this British community except these expressions............ :raebanana :raebanana :clap :raebanana :raebanana :laugh :raebanana :raebanana

When we arrived in Auckland, we were looking to live like a local kiwis. Before we bought the house, we found out that majority of the families are Pakeha and this attract us to set up our home in this local community.

We are now happily integrated into the community and participate in the local social events. :nice1

:cheers

[Diny]

What a lovely post. So nice to read such a cheerful and positive report. It's also nice to hear about the UK from a 'foreigners' point of view.

The fact that you settled very well in both the UK and NZ isn't all down to luck. You've obviously tackled each new situation with an outgoing, adaptable, positive attitude.

Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself. You are living testament (sp) that this works.

Good on you, all the best for your life in NZ. We'll be joining you soon .... 9 weeks on Saturday !!!! :clap

Keep us posted.

Diny

[Mildred]

You would obviously get on well wherever you lived in the world. :P

[Jo and Andy]

You seemed very clued up on how to settle and it does seem the right way to go.

It is good to have made friends through this site, but I know that in order to settle well in a new country you must make local friends and become part of the community.

Sometimes think it is easier for people with kids, as you are given opportunities to meet other families at all the clubs and sports events.

You've given us a positive outlook on settling and frame of mind before moving.

Jo

[jonSE]

What an inspirational post. Good on ya Singel eh!

OK thats my last post - no time to read this forum anymore off out to meet the neighbours. Oh it's dark and they're all home around the fire.

It is very easy to to just move here move into the "same" job you did in the UK and live life as you did in the uk. Never get to meet the locals etc.

maybe we are just solitary souls.

Jon

[Aug & Feb]

Hi Singel, thanks for your positiveness....living in the local community is the way to go. Good on ya !! :cheers

Wish you and hubby a safe and enjoyable trip back to Europe and Singapore.

Keep us posted.
:mrgreen: :P :laugh :cool :smile :exit