Have you ever wondered why the pound fell so quickly after the Brexit vote, or how New Zealand’s recent elections have influenced the currency there? In this month’s column, FC Exchange talk about how the global political climate can affect currency exchange rates, and what you can do to ensure you don’t encounter too many challenges.
The holidays can be a really difficult time for expats: while everyone else is celebrating with friends and family, it’s easy to feel isolated and alone. Luckily there are resources out there to help you. Firstly, check out this tip from Dr. Martine Luntz, demonstrating a simple way to help with homesickness.If you’re based in the UK, Samaritans are available 24/7, 365 days a year, to help you with anything you need to talk about. This year, Expat Focus is sponsoring a day at their Central London branch in December: take a look at what Samaritans can do for you and how to get in touch in our special feature.
One way to beat the blues is to immerse yourself in the festivities around you: why not explore your local area and create your own new traditions? If it’s your first Christmas in Germany, we have some suggestions for you!
Of course, the holiday period doesn’t mean the rest of life grinds to a halt: there will still be things to think about, especially if you’re in the process of planning your next move. If you’re moving to Helsinki, here’s how to find a place to live there.
New expats in Austria will find this guide to banking helpful – from which bank to choose, to how to start an account.
Moving to sunnier climes? Take a look at this guide to borders and customs in Venezuela, requested by one of our Facebook group members. You can find a full list of our Facebook groups by country here.
If you’re planning a move to the idyllic paradise of Antigua & Barbuda, here’s how to make sure you can bring the whole family, including your pets.
The Dominican Republic has a number of schooling options for expat children; take a look at our suggestions in this week’s article.
This week, three expats shared their experiences of life abroad with our readers:
• Fady in New Zealand
• Sam in Belgium
• Luca in Ecuador
Would you like to share your experience of life abroad with other readers? Answer the questions here to be featured in an interview!
Do you have any suggestions for articles you'd like to see on Expat Focus? Share your thoughts in the comments below.