Expats leave their host countries for a variety of reasons, often related to personal, cultural, and practical factors. One of the most common reasons is homesickness, as the initial excitement of living abroad can wear off after a year or more, leading expats to miss their friends, family, and familiar environments back home. Several ways to combat homesickness are by getting involved in local activities and making new friends. We brought all of our favorite things with us in a shipping container and having all your own things about you offers a sense of comforting homeyness. Making a list of all the things you want to do in your new home country can help you remember why you moved there!
Cultural and social hurdles also significantly impact the expat experience. Adjusting to a new culture can be daunting, and some expats find it challenging to forge connections with locals, often facing discrimination or a profound sense of isolation—particularly if they struggle with the local language. Chileans are more accepting of Americans and generally kind and polite if you struggle with the language. We have rarely been given the gringo price but it is good to know your prices. Chile has a very family-oriented culture so sometimes it is hard to break into social circles.
Having children in a school offers you an immediate social circle as the schools offer many activities for the whole family.
Oftentimes expats have unrealistic expectations of their new home country. They may have only visited as a tourist when everything was new and exciting and as they settle into the nitty gritty of daily living many challenges can arise. From purchasing a home where the process and laws can be different, to purchasing a car, getting home repairs done, and even something as simple as getting your shopping done! Different products, different services, and different ways of getting things done mixed in with a different language and customs can be particularly trying. Something you found so simple to do in your home country can become a complex and frustrating mystery!
Additionally, the quest for a better quality of life or more stable opportunities drives many expats to reconsider their choice. Although they may have moved abroad in search of freedom, career advancements or personal growth, the realities of adapting to a new country can lead them to seek the familiarity and security of their home environment. Moreover, political or social issues—such as government corruption or social unrest—can create an environment of disillusionment, making everyday life increasingly challenging.
Lastly, the bond with one’s home country often compels expats to return. The desire to reconnect with family or relive the comforts of their original culture can be particularly strong, especially for those who have spent years abroad and feel increasingly alienated from their roots. Family circumstances change as parents age and grandchildren are born. Ultimately, the decision to leave is complex, driven by a mix of emotional and practical considerations, emphasizing the importance of home and belonging. And in the end there is no right or wrong. You aren't a failure if you return to your home country. You are just moving on to a new phase of life richer for the experience of living abroad.
