10 Things all Expats Should Know about Moving

Not long ago, my family considered relocating to South Africa. However, the move did not happen for many reasons, but out of my research, I discovered a fantastic blog written by an expat who was living in Johannesburg, South Africa at the time. Sine, the blog author, brings humor and wisdom to even the most forlorn expat experiences. I have been following her blog since then.

Recently, Sine posted a list of things expats should know about moving which I think all of us expats and expats-to-be can identify with on some levels.  Below is a re-post with permission from ex-Joburg Expat.

Moving is hard. Moving abroad sounds even harder. But with the right point of view it doesn't have to be quite as hard as you think. If we can't change reality, we can change our thoughts about it. Here, then, are some of these thoughts when it comes to moving your family to distant shores:

1. It takes time. 
   You're really not at home in a new place until you've hung your pictures. And found an orthodontist. And made your first friends. And accidentally wrecked the trailer of the one friend you've barely just met. All of which might very well take the better part of a year, so give it some time.

Introducing The Expat's Guide to Southern Alsace

After months of research and interviews with local experts, Susie Woodhams and I completed a guide about dining, shopping, and recreation in southern Alsace.  The project took every minute of my day for the past six months, and my laptop became my new best companion. In the end, what I learned from this project is incredible.  To now be able to share my knowledge about this area of Alsace with others is a truly rewarding experience.

Today, I am back on the blogosphere, excited and overjoyed to announce the release of The Expat's Guide to Southern Alsace.  It is now available for direct purchase and download from Amazon.com.

Endless Reasons Why You Should Visit Basel

Welcome to Basel all new expats.  There are many things to do in Basel in the summer.  Here are just a few.  (Repost of the write-up submitted to the Expatsblog.com)

Basel - a charming Swiss city located at the intersection of Switzerland, Alsace, France, and the Black Forest of Germany – is often overlooked by international tourists, who often go straight to the more popular Zurich and Geneva.  But don't disregard this city based on its looks and quiet demeanor.  Basel is a hidden gem, a culture-filled city offering a plethora of festivals and cultural events throughout the year.  The third largest city in Switzerland, Basel offers ample historic landmarks and 37 museums focused on everything from fine arts to regional history to children's interests.