Why A Family Move Overseas Might Be A Good Decision
There could be any number of reasons why a move overseas might beckon. It could be an attractive job opportunity, better educational opportunities for your children, or simply a desire for change and adventure.
The benefits to such a move could be substantial. The cost of living is likely to be lower or wages higher; meaning a better living standard, possibly less working hours and a chance for the family to spend more quality time together.
Before making such a move, ensure the whole family is well informed about the decision and the choices. Focus on the benefits, which might include being able to afford a bigger house, or choosing one near amenities that are appealing. The children’s priorities might include being near a park or the beach; yours might be proximity to work, shops, restaurants and entertainment. Finding out all you can about an area before moving can remove a lot of the fear and anxiety that sometimes accompanies change.
Educational facilities will be a priority to investigate if you have school age children. International schools offer high class educational opportunities and sporting facilities, plus a chance for children to make new friends, and immerse themselves in a different culture and environment.
Schools in Asia, such as Hong Kong International schools, are often superior to educational establishments at home. They have a wider choice of curriculum and are not limited to the curriculum of the country of residence of the school. As well as education, children can take part in all kinds of co-curricular activities such as drama, soccer, ballet or basketball.
You might have been lucky enough to visit your new home and area before moving there. If not, take time to familiarize yourself with it on the internet, find out where the local open spaces are, and work out your travel route to work or school.
Make sure passports and inoculations are up to date. Do you have suitable clothes for your new environment? Pack essentials for the flight or voyage; coloring books for the children or games, travel sickness or headache tablets, and order currency in advance. For fun, and to make the different food choices appealing to the family, perhaps prepare a meal to include a typical dish of the destination.
As a parent, you have the responsibility to make the move as seamless and smooth as possible for the children. Keep yourself in the best possible health to cope with the additional stress you may find yourself under.
Irrespective of how much research you undertake, a new country and culture will take some getting used to. It might not be just the language that is different. Embrace the change, explore new ways of cooking, learn from the different customs and enjoy them as well as your own.
Your children have a wonderful new opportunity to grow and learn; enjoy the terrific and exciting journey with them.
