One fascinating yet highly consequential aspect of relocating to a new country is that of accommodation. Standards, styles, designs and sizes of property vary enormously from country to country.
The primary choice between a metropolitan or rural environment for solo expats or families is just the beginning. If urban preference, does an inner city neighbourhood location or a suburb suit our lifestyle better? Vibrant or more peaceful neighbourhood?
Detached or semi-detached house, town house, apartment or studio? With garden, terrace or balcony? Even the number of rooms are declared differently in listings, depending upon the country. If renting, a classic decision is with furniture or not. Do I ship my own beloved items or should I purchase anew with local design options?
Expat groups on social media are packed with such questions. The quality of building and noise from neighbours and streets is especially big in Spain. In Germany the lack of a fitted kitchen and not even a sink is often astounding.
The size to cost ratio can also have consequences. Some international residents are used to maintaining a dedicated guest bedroom. When moving abroad, this can, for many, become a serious topic. Where do visiting family members sleep?. Especially when gathering “en masse” for the festive season. Camp down together or depart to a hotel bed for the night. This can be a daunting decision.
I’m reminded of the latter topic whilst currently visiting various family and friends abroad. As an extensive traveller and used to sleeping in different beds, I have ‘roughed it” a little to be able to immerse myself in the whole experience. As we say: ‘In for a penny, in for a pound!”.
Memories
As this year’s peak of celebration ebbs, the usual lull before a new year offers me two memories. I’m reminded of returning home long ago to be with my dear mum and dad. Our family home was perfectly sufficient for fifty-one weeks of the year. I had driven to the UK from Germany for those remaining days of this particular one. It also saw the arrival of my grandmother, an aunt, my sister and her two daughters.
Pre-Christmas partying was a big deal in those days. I met up with friends and evenings were lively. We danced, we partied late. Even on December 24. My temporary bed was upstairs on the landing. I crawled into it at 5 am. Three hours later, my two darling young nieces enthusiastically leapt on top of me, shook me and exclaimed that Santa had already been. I considered the hour incredibly respectable, especially since, as a child, I would usually wake my parents at 5 am.
We had a tradition of really, really long woven socks filled with small items and fruits that St Nick had delivered. Still inebriated, I perused my gifts with them and was forced to arise to then live my day in a haze. Such fun!
Until it wasn’t. Our favourite watering hole was also where we met friends on Boxing day evening to flee from our families. The motivation was more that of escape than a joyous get together! The atmosphere throughout the pub seemed accordingly subdued for all in attendance.
So possessing enough space for visitors (or not) can offer advantages as well as disadvantages. A hotel room with a comfortable bed may be wonderful but, for me it has almost always been a preference of vicinity over comfort. Fast forward to this year and I’m finding myself in a few unique situations, yet sleeping well, thankfully.
Whether the choice of a new home follows the heart or logic, a multitude of other decisions concerning the new life abroad follow in very quick succession. Rationality is key. Help is often needed and that is my mission.
The New Year
While members of all religious faiths celebrate, it has long been the Christian tradition that dominates. Interestingly, the dawning of a new year and tonight’s revelry has also grasped the imagination of a vast majority of people across the globe.
Since our calendars have long been impacted by planetary aspects, the interest in celestial and astronomical influence may not be so surprising. Take the concept of numerology. Some say we are influenced by a belief system whether we believe in it or not. Others remain more sceptical.
The year twenty twenty six breaks down to the numeral one. And if the interpretation of that holds true, we are in for quite a ride, as my Google search revealed. We are told to expect new global leaders, innovative shifts in culture, and movements emphasising freedom and creativity. We should focus on strengthening our confidence and listening to our intuition. And that it’s a powerful time for starting new goals, taking risks, and pursuing what you believe in. Sounds good to me! You too?
Whether expat or local citizen, I sincerely wish that your new year overflows with joy, laughter and perfect health. As well as. a solid portion of love. Both the universal and personal kind.
May your dreams come true in 2026.
In joy,
Garry
By Vincent Green, Dec 31 2025
