Has Moving Abroad Become a Topic of Conversation in Your Household?

Well, well, well. Hello again, friends, neighbors, and strangers.

It's been a while... but she's back!

I'm here today with a mission: to support those in the US and beyond by offering practical help from here in Europe. I may not have written for a minute, but these posts have plenty of workable and relevant information for those in times of great change.

It goes without saying that The Scientist and I are thinking of those of you in the US.

And, since I have this outlet, let's talk.

While not everyone can or wants to move away from the US, many people have come to us for tips over these last five years. Some have already moved; others are in the beginning stages. If you're considering this (whether as a concerned citizen, political dissident, or because it's become the safer option), let me help.

1. Let's begin with practical tips on moving abroad, like organizing with a spreadsheet. (Don't threaten The Scientist with a good time!) Check out: Tips on Moving Abroad: How in the World Did I Do It!? This piece takes a fine-toothed comb to the seemingly daunting process and breaks it into bite-sized pieces. You got this.

2. Next up, I recommend keeping your phone number active through Google Voice—yes, the one you've had since middle school. If that's your jam, read through: How to Keep Your US Phone Number with Google Voice. Or as I put it at the time, "a.k.a. "Making the phones go" a.k.a. "Keeping your US phone number active though you have a new European cell phone plan."" Another suggestion? Consider downloading apps like Signal, Telegram, or Discord that allow you to communicate internationally and with more privacy.

3. Now, on to bureaucratic bullshit: visas and residence permits. The Scientist and I co-wrote a post about obtaining a national visa aptly titled Visas and Residency in Lithuania: Part 1. But, you should also know Americans can get a residence permit in Lithuania for up to a year without having a job lined up, as long as they have sufficient money in their bank account. And hey, maybe now I'll write that follow-up post... because moving and staying here are different, but related, ballparks.

4. We moved Audrey with us around the world during a pandemic: 1.5 out of 5 stars. But you may be considering doing the same... under less isolated circumstances. Enter How to Move Your Pet Overseas: It's... Complicated, Y'all. (Spoiler alert!) It probably would help to not have a dog the size of a small horse/large forest spirit, but we do what we can.

5. Culture shock is real, my friends, and I went through each phase. I'm just one of many, but my personal experience may help if you're suddenly using all those Frequent Flyer miles. With that in mind, here's The Four Stages of Culture Shock - And Where I Currently Stand.

6. Annnnnd finally, if Lithuania is your specific cup of arbata, I wrote a whole post laying out my thoughts called Living in Lithuania: 6 Pros and Cons. Naturally, my thoughts have shifted, crystallized, and shifted many times over. But I love and appreciate being here, and that is likely visible through every screen. Maybe you would, too.

Listen, I understand that moving is a last resort for many. But if it's what you want (or need), I'm here to support your process from the outside. Reach out here or at @intotheforestsigo!

Iki pasimatymo, I hope!