A Welcome Letter to Our Expat Community

February 24, 2018 Christie Chu

Dear Expat,Did you land here by some random Facebook post shared by your cousin's cousin? Or have you been following along for years? Either way, Welcome!Let me take the time to explain exactly what we mean by an expat. Expat: someone who is doing life in a different country than the one printed on your passport. We at Taking Route are a community of expats for expats. If you need a laugh, encouragement, advice, or just need reminded you aren't alone--we're here for you.Whatever your reason for moving abroad: Peace Corps, Foreign Service, USAID, NGO, military, retired volunteer, missionary, teacher, gap year, study abroad, digital nomad, entrepreneur, job relocation, overseas assignment, small business owner, married a local, stay-at-home spouse, second home overseas, TCK…Whether you're single or married, with or without kids, a parent or grandparent…Whether you chose this life or circumstances dictated that you move abroad...Whether you're about to move overseas, have been in your host nation for a while, or you've already transitioned back home…Whether you're surrounded by a local expat community or out there on your own…Asia. Africa. South America. North America. Middle East. Europe. Australia. The Islands. Even Antarctica!...Whether your host country speaks your native language, or not…Whether you're an adult TCK trying to figure out life in your passport country…Wherever you're from (if you have a place you consider "home"), if you're trying to figure out life in a new country, or even one you've been in for a while…Whether your move is temporary or you're there long-term…If you understand what it's like to live somewhere foreign to you, to adjust to a new culture, new cuisine, new people, and to struggle with the small stuff, like buying groceries or using the toilet…Expatriates share common experiences whether living in the African bush or an Asian mega city. Standing out is our normal. Try something new is our motto. Embracing our host culture is our anthem. Community is our chorus. You belong here!