So You’ve Moved Abroad—Now What?

This blog is more of a homecoming than a fresh start.

How to Blend In, Make Friends & Actually Feel at Home

Moving abroad sounds so exciting until you find yourself alone in a new country, unsure of how to say “hi” without sounding weird and wondering if people are ignoring you or just… super chill. Been there!

When I moved to Australia, I spoke the language (thankfully), but still felt like I’d landed on another planet. The slang was wild, the small talk was confusing (“How ya going?” doesn’t mean where are you going, by the way), and I suddenly felt like the most awkward version of myself.

But here’s the thing—they don’t give you a handbook on how to feel at home in a new country. So here’s mine, based on real, cringey, growth-filled experiences:

1. Know the language? Cool. Now learn the culture.
Just because you understand English doesn’t mean you understand Aussie. Learn how people joke, how they socialise, what matters to them. For example, Aussies love self-deprecating humour and will happily take the mick out of themselves—and you, if they like you. Don’t take it personally!

2. Say yes. A lot.
Even if you don’t know anyone, even if it’s awkward, even if you’d rather stay home and binge-watch. Say yes to barbies (BBQs), weekend markets, brunches, or beach trips. Your future friendships are hiding in those random invites.

3. Join things. Anything.
Sports club, yoga class, art workshop, volunteering gig—whatever gets you into a routine and around people. I met one of my closest friends because we both turned up solo to a community gardening event and bonded over killing our assigned plant.

4. Observe before you dive in.
Watch how people interact. Are hugs normal? Do they air-kiss? (Spoiler: most Aussies don’t.) These little details can help you adjust without feeling out of place. You don’t have to become a local overnight—but blending in starts with understanding, not performing.

5. Be open—and patient.
It takes time to build your own little village. And it’s okay to feel homesick. But every small win (a smile from the barista, a casual chat at the dog park, getting invited for a cuppa) adds up.

6. Learn the Indigenous history of the place.
This might not be the first thing on your list—but it should be. Understanding the land you live on, the stories behind it, and the cultures that existed long before us is part of truly respecting where you are.

Moving abroad isn’t just about changing your address—it’s about expanding your heart. And while it can be lonely and confusing at first, I promise it gets better. One random friend, one slang word, and one awkward event at a time.

You’ve got this. And if all else fails, just bring snacks. Everyone loves the person who brings food.