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6 Harsh Truths Aspiring Expats Can’t Afford To Ignore Before Leaving Home!

Thinking of moving abroad? Here’s what no one warns you about: the loneliness, cultural landmines, and the harsh realities that could derail your dream life.

David Peluchette
Expats Planet
6 min readDec 25, 2024

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So, you’ve scrolled past the Instagram reels of sunlit beaches, European cafés, and expats sipping wine with smug smiles.

Looks like a dream, right?

Well, strap in, because I’m here to tell you that living abroad isn’t just your own Pinterest board come to life, it’s also figuring out why your toilet flushes sideways and negotiating rent with someone who doesn’t speak your language.

Ready to burst the bubble?

Let’s pop it!

1. Not All That Glitters is Poori: The Reality of Moving Abroad

I thought moving to Tbilisi, Georgia, would be easy.

After 20 years in Ukraine, speaking decent Russian, booking an Airbnb for my first week beforehand and picking up a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival, I thought I had hit the ground running.

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Expats Planet
Expats Planet

Published in Expats Planet

The lines between Tourists, Expats, and Global Travelers are more blurred now than ever. Expats Planet examines this changing Travel/Life Abroad landscape, offering insights on life beyond borders and its impacts. Is the grass always greener? Join us in exploring the unfamiliar!

David Peluchette
David Peluchette

Written by David Peluchette

I'm an American Expat who's been living, working and traveling abroad for over 26 years, writing in a variety of topics from an Expat's perspective.

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