The view from here
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Find out what it's like to live on the other side of the world for 8.5 years--in this case a Canadian living in New Zealand. - Meg, Week 1Welcome to our series of Travelher's Most Frequently Asked Questions! This is the first topic in our weekly feature, originally published as daily posts on our social media channels and then compiled here at the end of each week. It was hard when I first moved to New Zealand from Canada. It took about a year to get to where I felt like I was on solid ground. Everything was new and I had to figure out all the day-to-day stuff like where to get groceries and get a haircut, how to take the bus and open a bank account, PLUS make friends, find work, navigate the New Zealand way of life and stop thinking about home. Also, Kiwis spell things differently, go barefoot all the time, and talk funny😋 Kidding of course, but you do feel like an outsider when rugby is on every TV set and all you want to do is watch the hockey playoffs (or "ice hockey" as the Kiwis say). And when I do go home, it's hard to paint a picture of what life is like here (unless the person has visited--which is my favourite thing!) and it often feels like they don't even try to get it. Maybe it just seems too far away, but it is frustrating. So you end up feeling a bit like you don't fully belong to either place and I think that is the hardest part. I found my way to balance it after time and effort, and while I still leave a little piece of my heart whenever I go home and I get the occasional pang of homesickness, I have accepted and embraced the bittersweet reality of loving people and places all over the globe. Now, after 8.5 years here, I'll be doing it all over again. Next month, I'll be moving to the Solomon Islands for 2 years. It's not a place I had even really considered visiting before, but my partner got offered a great job there and after checking it out in December, we decided YES on a new adventure. It is a developing nation in a remote location, so it is going to be a big change with its share of challenges. Some things I'm excited about: a whole new place to explore, meeting new people, learning about a new culture, hiking, scuba diving, tropical weather, seafood, fresh fruit, island serenity. Some things I'm worried about: tropical illnesses, going stir crazy, litter everywhere, cultural clashes (ie. women's place in society), finding my fit, cyclones, and earthquakes. I intend to keep the business going from there and am looking at other possible options like volunteer opportunities and maybe some remote study. All and all I am SO excited and in full preparation mode, plus soaking in as much of New Zealand goodness as possible. Getting ready to leave this place for a couple years and I can't help but think of all the reasons I love it. Not only is this country stunningly beautiful with an endless amount of landscapes to explore, but it also gave me multiple opportunities to learn, create and grow. Kiwis are as laid back and funny as they come, but they are also incredibly sharp with a striving spirit. I couldn't be more grateful to have met such hardworking, intelligent and giving people--and indebted for the chances they gave me. Kiwis undersell virtually everything--and continuously over-deliver. This covers things like gorgeous scenery and fun experiences... but that also includes how difficult something is going to be... like scuba diving near rocks in choppy conditions or hiking 18km 😅 "No worries, mate." For now, I'll end with my mad respect for the New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern and her incredible leadership, kindness, and authenticity. A much needed source of light on a dim world stage! Until next time, travel on! - Meg Author - Meghan AdventMeghan is a co-founder and the head editor of Travelher. She has been to all 7 continents but her travel bucket list never ends. From March 2020, she will reside in the Solomon Islands with her partner Jason and her cat Kahlua.
12 Comments
29/1/2024 16:58:41
Fascinating read, Meg! It's so relatable to hear about the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with living far from home. The cultural adjustments, missing loved ones, but also the personal growth and exciting new experiences - it's all part of the adventure, isn't it? Wishing you all the best in the Solomon Islands - can't wait to hear about your next chapter!
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22/8/2024 20:21:20
Thank you for sharing this fascinating series! It’s always intriguing to hear about life in different parts of the world. If you ever find yourself back home and in need of a tree surgeon, feel free to visit our site!
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22/8/2024 20:23:13
Thank you for sharing your experience—it’s so relatable and insightful! It’s definitely challenging to feel like you don’t fully belong in either place. If you ever need a tree surgeon back in Canada or in New Zealand, feel free to visit our site!
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24/8/2024 16:45:51
Thank you for sharing your experience. Moving to a new country is always challenging, but it’s inspiring to hear how you found your footing. If you happen to need tree surgery services, feel free to visit our site.
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24/8/2024 16:55:05
I can relate to the difficulty of adjusting to a new place. It’s great to hear you found your balance after a year. If you're ever in need of tree surgery services, don’t hesitate to check out our site.
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28/8/2024 01:19:16
Thank you for sharing your experience of adjusting to life in New Zealand! It’s always challenging to settle into a new country, but it sounds like you’ve done an amazing job. If you happen to need a tree surgeon, feel free to visit our site for expert help.
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28/8/2024 01:19:55
I appreciate your honesty about the difficulties of moving to a new country. It takes time to feel at home, but it sounds like you’ve navigated the changes well. If you ever need a tree surgeon, be sure to check out our site for professional assistance.
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28/8/2024 21:22:49
It’s amazing how you’re embracing the Kiwi way of life and tackling all those new adventures! New Zealand sounds like a beautiful place. If you need any tree services or tips, don’t hesitate to visit our site!
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3/9/2024 21:33:41
Your story of adapting to life in New Zealand is so relatable. It’s incredible how you’ve embraced the challenges and joys of living in a new country. By the way, if you or anyone you know needs Tree Surgeon services, our site is just a click away!
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3/9/2024 21:36:19
Meg, your excitement for the Solomon Islands and gratitude for your time in New Zealand really shines through. Best of luck on your new adventure! And if you ever need a Tree Surgeon, be sure to check out our site—we’re here to help!
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4/9/2024 01:49:37
Thank you for sharing your journey! Moving to a new country is always a mix of excitement and challenges. It’s inspiring to see how you’ve embraced the experience in New Zealand and are now ready for a new adventure in the Solomon Islands. Best of luck with the move! If anyone needs help with their garden or a tree surgeon, visit our site!
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