So you have arrived in your new country with your children and possibly husband / partner or wife if you are a dad reading this. Your partner is out working and you are starting to feel a little overwhelmed, isolated, board and thinking it’s time to get out of your comfort zone and get socializing. Not just you but also your children. I know that feeling. That is why I have put together this Quick tips for Meeting friends as an Expat mum.
When I arrived in Hong Kong 5 years ago, one of my biggest challenges and worries was how to make friends abroad. I moved to Hong Kong with my husband and two children who were 18 months old and 3 years at the time. I left my career, friends and family behind and became an ‘non working Expat Mum’. I still can’t believe that we have been here for 5 years all ready.
Meeting friends as an Expat Mum - My Quick Tips
PLAYDATES Playdates are great for both the parents and the children. You get to talk with other parents and children get to play with other children. Finding a playdate is quite easy nowadays with social media. I did a simple searched for mums groups in Hong Kong, scrolled through some posts and saw posts about other mums looking for playdates. Play dates can be anything from playing at someone’s house to going to a park or beach etc. If you can’t find a playdate group in your area, create one! You will be surprised at how many mums and dads will connect with you in your area. Be active on line and put it out that you are wanting to connect with other mums and dads. Get a group going and arrange a meet up.
JOIN A HOBBY CLASS As much as we love our children it is important to get some “me” time. Whether you are into yoga, golf, swimming, gym, hiking, art, cooking etc. there will be a class or group out there for you. check out Meet up. Meet up is an online resource which connects you to people with similar interests and hobbies and will helps you to find events or groups. If you can not find an event or group in your area then you can create your own and meet people near you who share your interests.
LEARN THE LOCAL LANGUAGE Make an effort to learn the local language. Knowing the language is the best way to break the ice with the locals. It is also very useful if your children attend the local school and you want to join in with the other local mums at the school gates.
REMEMBER THAT FRIENDSHIP TAKE TIME TO DEVELOP You can’t find your new bestie overnight. Some friendship develop fast while others develop at a slower pace. But the more you get out of your comfort zone the quicker you will find people you connect with and start forming friendship.
Are you ready to go out and start meeting some new friends? and start exploring your new surroundings. As an expat you are on a journey. So go out and have fun! before you go don’t forget to print out your free motivational poster. We are all on a journey and living a life many others only dream off.
What are your tips for meeting new friends abroad? I’d love to hear your tips too. Did you find this post useful? If so please share or pin it.