Is not just about packing your suitcase and finding a place to live.  When I was considering the move to Belgium my key thoughts were language, work and adjusting to a new culture.  What I had not contemplated was how I would build friendships, intermingle within a new society and perhaps adjust to the unknowns of buying a house or even communicating with people. Draping a bill board over my shoulders would perhaps be an idea to share who I am, yet I doubt it will endear me to making friends (unnecessary attention could be more fitting).  Nor is it that straight forward in starting up a pop up cafe with the emphasis of fun English and Japanese delights (the idea of funding is putting this idea on the back burner).

These were my initial concerns, so how does one integrate?  Getting out and exploring is crucial.  From here you will learn so much about the local area you have chosen to live.  From simply finding the non-cowboy plumber to where do you go to service your bicycle?   What I had found from visiting Belgium is that people were genuinely helpful.  This is still the case when being an adoptive local, yet Belgium’s can be quite guarded. Taking time to forge meaningful relationships is important.  Joining such groups as Meetup (which was a recommendation by a friend and artist Sylvia Ross) at the same time sniffing out local sports groups (or other activities – art, creative etc) –  for me it was Aikido. From the Aikido group there has been heart warming relationships made which have ultimately helped me adjust and integrate more into my new abode.

I mentioned work above and this has been a deep concern for me as there are a few factors which are not the same as the UK.  Naturally the language barrier is quite difficult.  When you hear business people, individuals or staff easily switching between Flemish and French it has made me realise that being an English speaker is not all that beneficial. Added to that Belgium does officially have 3 languages – Flemish (Dutch), French and German. Most people can speak either 2 or all 3 of these languages. Adding English as another language just adds to the difference to seeking work in the UK.  If anything it is somewhat embarrassing and really disappointing that the education of languages is quite poor within the UK. The cliche of speaking English whilst abroad, is simply increasing your volume as the recipient does not understand is all too common. Learning new languages helps you to embrace a new culture and life experiences.  So having gone off topic a bit – work has been complex.  I speak English as a native, Japanese mid to fluent with a smattering of German and now learning Dutch. Finding work is proving to be tricky. Belgium relies on applicants having a good education behind them, with almost a BA or even a Masters on the CV.  Whereas your experience and history tends to be an important factor in the UK, this is not the case in Belgium. Even within the world of Digital Marketing, Product Sourcing and Business Development it is still a requirement.  So I am turning this into a positive – building my language skills, seeking work and settling the new to be house – what better way is to continue to use my skills is through this blog!

Embracing the culture is one thing, yet communication is so important and that is why I have begun to learn Nederlands / Flemish.  Whilst the process may take some time in getting the words out (have said to people that they may need a raincoat) due to the pronunciation of some words that have “je” or the long sounding “r”, it is also an opportunity to meet people who are also learning the local language.  It is fun and I am enjoying my classes and the Teacher I have is fabulous.  Thrown into the deep end can be daunting, yet it is only the way for me personally to learn. Having self taught the various languages I speak over the years,  I have found having a fun element to why I am learning the language really does help  (The oldest pupil in my class is 53 years so doesn’t matter how old you are).

Now that I have been living in my newly adopted country, for close to 10 months I am now feeling more settled and at ease. Exploring what is around locally is so important.  Mechelen and it’s surrounding areas have many gems – from independent shops, unique hotels, art and history museums and close by a stunning art deco school.  With the prospects of signing the purchase papers for our new house next week, it not only shows that Dean and I are settled, we are very fortunate and grateful in being able to live in Mechelen.  At the same time our 3 legged babies have also settled well also.

Doing something out of the norm challenges people in different ways. What I have found over the years is embracing life is one thing, embracing new endeavours is another.  Sometimes stepping out of the comfort zone helps you to see or taste something new.  Living in a new country is indeed that!