The Grown-Up's Guide to Running Away from Home, Second Edition: Making a New Life Abroad Read Online Free Page B

you want to travel around the world, you won’t do that. That’s the trip itself. But you should take a trip to some locale comparable to where you’ll be going. Especially if you haven’t ever gone overseas. The essential thing is to try it yourself. Make sure you’re not living someone else’s dream or being swayed by some travel writer’s effusive prose.
Learn a Language
    If you’re going to venture overseas to a country where the primary language is not English, then take a course in the language. Even if you are going to a country where English is widely spoken, having the basics of another language will come in handy as you have more opportunity to travel.
    I’ve met several Americans who didn’t learn the native language of the country they chose to live in, and they managed. But the people who knew the basics before they arrived, then worked at improving their language skills, had more fulfilling experiences than those who thought they’d “pick it up when I get there.” As an adult, it takes time to master a language, so give yourself that head start by beginning well before you get on the plane.
Learn the Customs
    Language is not the only difference you’ll have to deal with. The culture and customs will be different. For example, in some countries different hand signals mean different things. You won’t want to give offense. Be a cultural ambassador. Learn about your new environment. It will make your life easier once you’re there.
    Read up on the country you’ve chosen. Learn its geography, weather, typical lifestyles, social structure, and the practical details of daily life. Try to get a feel for the culture before you choose your destination.
    Talk to people who’ve been there, as either visitors or residents. If you can find a cross-cultural training course, consider taking it. Yes, there will always be surprises, but when you know what to expect in general, you’re better able to weather a new culture and enjoy the experience.
Network Internationally
    Once you decide to run away, make your wishes known far and wide—unless, of course, your boss will hear about it! Once you start spreading the word, you’ll be surprised how many people will respond with information or friends to look up overseas. They’ll provide the on-site information you need to feel comfortable and learn insider tips on the country and culture you’re headed toward.
Arrange Home and Finances
    Fixing up your house to sell or rent it for the best price takes time. So does deciding what to do with your car, furniture, and all the other baggage of life. You’ll need to review your financial picture with your accountant and other advisors to determine your “running away” budget.
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    Don’t let fear or the Nay-Sayers or the Gertie Glooms dissuade you. Do your homework, then go for it! Portugal (or France or Argentina or Fiji) is not Mars. You can go back if it doesn’t work out
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    —Anne, Albufeira, Portugal
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    Initial decisions—for example, whether to rent or sell the house—often change from one week to the next, as new input comes in. Ensure that you make well-considered decisions by not rushing them.
Visualize Your New Life
    Sports trainers often tell their athletes to imagine the moment of hitting the ball or making the big play. After you’ve read enough and seen the area you want, run through in your mind what it will be like there. Read nonfiction and even novels set in the country to understand its background. Then imagine what you will do with your days. Will you take art lessons? Learn to cook native dishes? How will you make friends? Having a mental planand making lists galore will give your new life structure, so you won’t feel so adrift when you move.
    Be prepared for the fact that a long-term stay is different from a vacation. You’ll have a real life overseas, complete with dentist visits, haircuts, and trips to the vet with the dog. It will just be more interesting—all of it.
Plan