A few months ago there was the official celebration of International Day of Happiness. We took this opportunity and spoke with our intercultural experts in our company to find out, what the most the most helpful tips are to become or remain a happy expatriate after an international relocation. Whether you are already a happy expatriate in Italy or whether you are going to relocate from Bella Italia to become an expat, we recommend following top tips to ensure a smooth transition to your new life abroad: Be open-minded, embrace your new host country, and be open to learn and discover new things. You are an expat, not a visitor. Your host country is very much your new home country. In order to be happy you need to see it as such. Step out of your comfort zone – by giving into your curiosity you will be able to adapt to your new surroundings. Create a daily routine as soon as possible. Especially for partners who may not be working yet or just finding their feet. A daily routine offers the comforting sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar location. Do something (within reason) that you would not really do at your home country. If you can’t dance, take Tango lessons in Argentina. If you can’t sing, rent a karaoke box in Japan. Remember that no one knows you when you first arrive and as the saying goes, when in Rome… Stay connected with your friends at home. Find ways to balance between creating new relationships in your new city and maintaining those back home. This keeps you feeling connected and makes moving back home less bumpy. Make sure you study and learn the language of your new host country. This will not only give you cultural insights, but is a great way to connect with others, too. Consider your international moving experience as a journey of self-discovery. Happy expats check in with themselves and reflect on their experiences regularly. Make a discovery tour in your local “neighbourhood” It can be tempting to focus travels on going back home or exotic top locations. Don't forget to explore the city you are in and even your own neighbourhood. Share your experiences with people you meet. It will make you feel more “normal” and you will learn from others, too. By sharing your experiences you’ll make new friends and settle in quicker. Write a travel journal of your ticket stubs, photos, restaurant menus, etc. This is a great way to remember your experience and celebrate what you have accomplished during your stay – especially if you plan to move back home. And finally: You can allow yourself a few bad days Cultural adjustment is a process. It’s ok to be down or feel overwhelmed. Just acknowledge the feeling and look for ways to take it a little easier for a few days.