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Videos & Podcasts 9 min read

The Expat Relocation Experience – Part 3: The Final Stages

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About the Speaker:

Demetra Tofarides

Marketing and Events Specialist

Originally from Paphos, Cyprus, Demetra’s studies brought her to the UK where she achieved a Masters in Events Management. Demetra worked as a production assistant following graduation, creating largescale events for clients such as EasyJet and Toyota. Now based in Mauve’s London office [but soon to be based in Mauve’s Dubai office] , Demetra brings her events expertise to the marketing department and assists our Channel Partner team to develop the referral scheme.

“These 10 steps […] are a combination of personal, professional, and practical. That way, we’re really thinking about this relocation from all angles.”

Overview:

Demetra began her expatriate journey at just 18 years old, when she emigrated from Cyprus and relocated to England, UK. Now, 10 years on, she's decided to relocate again – this time, to Dubai, UAE. She has experienced what the life on an expat can look like. Her personal experience, coupled with her professional experience of working in the global mobility industry, has taught her the right steps to take when considering a relocation.

In episode one, she talked about how to choose the best destination to relocate. In episode two, she shared her best advice on how to prepare for the big move. Now, having arrived in her new destination, she talks about the third and final phase of the transition. For the first time, along with the practical considerations, she also shares the personal obstacles every expat will encounter and what she’s been doing to overcome these. And as it turns out, they’re working out for her.

While highlighting what should be on your priority list in this final stage, Demetra also emphasises what seemingly less important factors should not be neglected – as you’ll soon come to find out how equally important they are, to building a life in your new home.

Key takeaways:

  • Search for accommodation, listed on legitimate agents' websites – browse those referred by others and look out for good reviews, to help verify their authenticity. But do not pay any money, before arriving in-country and meeting agents and landlords.
  • Once in-country, prioritise the legalities of your move – from finalising your visas, to acquiring ID cards, to setting up a local bank account, to having a local SIM card.
  • Slow down; give yourself the grace to complete all the important tasks, before you explore your new home as an expat. Remember, you're a not a tourist. So, once you're settled in, you'll have all the time to check out all that the new destination has to offer and discover how can you make a life for yourself.