When planning a move abroad, there are numerous things you must carefully consider such as what you must pack, how you will pack it, how you will keep in contact with loved ones and where you will live. You are often left with little time to become excited about your move and to enjoy contemplating on the new adventures you are about to embark on. Whilst it is important to decide which phone plan you will use abroad and to spend time trying to learn the new language, it is equally important to relax and allow yourself to be inspired by the those who have travelled along a similar path. If you do one thing before your moving date, read your way through these six novels about relocating to another country. Here’s our list of six books to read when moving abroad:
In A Sunburned Country, by Bill Bryson
Known for his humorous novels, Bryson’s story of his move to Australia is no different. Following his journey through the hot, dry and peculiar country is a hoot and will inspire you to adopt a similar light hearted and laid back attitude on your own adventure. It’s so important to enjoy your experience abroad and Bryson certainly encourages you to do so.
Expat Women: Confessions – 50 Answers to Your Real-Life Questions about Living Abroad by Andrea Martins and Victoria Hepworth
For answers to questions you’ve likely considered if planning to move abroad, look no further than this excellent guide from Andrea Martins and Victoria Hepworth. The pair are experienced expats (to say the least) and use this book as an outlet for their stories, wisdom and tips about what to expect throughout each stage of your expat journey.
We Need New Names, by NoViolet Bulawayo
Narrated by a girl named Darling, this is the fascinating and enjoyable true story of Bulawayo’s move to the US from Zimbabwe as a teenager. The book begins following Bulawayo as a child growing up in a Zimbabwean shantytown before travelling with her to the US where she receives quite the culture shock. Bulawayo perfectly describes the unbelievable differences between the two cultures and has you desperate to travel in her footsteps to experience it for yourself.
The Mobile Life by Diane Lemieux and Anne Parker
This book is a practical look at the emotional side of moving and the psychological aspects of the change in environment. Written by serial expats, this book demonstrates their wealth of experience in this area. It’s fully of fantastic tips for resettling and is a must read for anyone planning a move abroad.
Didgeridoos and Didgeridon’ts by Vicky Gray
This how to book is aimed at anyone moving to Australia and is full of helpful advice and information from someone who has done it all herself. It’s also a humorous book and easy to read with lots of hints throughout, you won’t be able to put it down.
How to Retire Overseas: Everything You Need to Know to Live Well (for Less) Abroad by Kathleen Peddicord
In this guide to retiring abroad, Peddicord draws on over three decades of successful international moving experiences to make the prospect of relocating overseas as stress free as possible. Covering essential issues such as death, taxes, healthcare and banking, this definitive guide is key to fulfilling your retirement dreams.
