If you have wondered what it’s like to live abroad you should know that there is not right or wrong answer, and that it will be unique to each person’s context and story. When I refer to mine, sometimes it’s hard not to get emotional or passionate about it (my Latin blood plays a part too). Saying it’s like riding the highest roller coaster in the world doesn’t quite capture it. It’s been the scariest and most exciting decision I’ve made so far. Why?
1. Discovering a New World
Moving to a country I had never heard of before felt like discovering a whole new world. Denmark, with its six months of winter and five days of summer, was a stark contrast to Colombia, where there are no distinct seasons. Coming from Bogotá, a city where you can experience rain, sun, and wind all in one day, I had no idea what life in Denmark would be like. I didn’t know what winter was, and I certainly didn’t know that winter depression is real. The Danish language was a mystery, and despite everyone speaking English, becoming fluent in Danish has been a long journey. Yet, the basic Danish I know has opened doors to a culture vastly different from what I was used to.
2. Leaving My Comfort Zone
Landing in Copenhagen in August 2018, knowing no one, was both scary and exciting. It marked the beginning of a new challenge: facing a new life on my own. The first weeks were fun and different, but soon, the absence of my family, beloved friends, and everything familiar from Bogotá started to weigh on my heart. This feeling never fully goes away, but over time, I’ve learned to live with it (or at least that’s what I tell myself every day). Meeting people from all over the world and realizing that this new life was nothing like I imagined helped me adapt. The challenges of expensive living, difficult languages (both Danish and English), and feeling out of place have been part of the process. It’s not about being likable but about feeling the satisfaction of looking back and acknowledging the progress.
3. Finding Strength in Difficulties
I didn’t embark on this adventure out of boredom. Having lived 25 years in Bogotá, I was happy with my life but yearned for something more. Curiosity got the best of me. I always dreamed of living abroad, thinking it would offer more opportunities and a better quality of life (a concept I later found to be very subjective). Deciding to live abroad and actually doing it opened doors to a constant companion: uncertainty. Uncertainty hit hard in 2020. My plans (yes, plans…) were to travel to Turkey for summer, meet my family in Bogotá for Christmas, and find a full-time job in communications after graduating. But, as they say, the only constant is change, and 2020 exemplified that perfectly. After just two and a half months into the new year, I was laid off, my travel plans were canceled, and I had to quickly adapt to new circumstances.
4. Starting Over and Over Again
Starting life in Denmark was tougher than I realized. With only 9000 DKK in my pocket, I naively thought it would last three months. After the first month, I needed a job—any job. I found a housekeeping position in a hotel in central Copenhagen, despite living 40 minutes away and working weekends. After six months, I visited my family in Bogotá, only to lose my job because the hotel couldn’t wait for my return. Back in Denmark, jobless again, a friend recommended me to her boss at a hotel near the central station. I worked every other weekend but needed another job to meet my financial needs. Pre-COVID, I juggled multiple jobs: waitressing on weekends and cleaning during the week. When the pandemic hit and Denmark shut down, I lost my jobs and faced my final semester, writing my thesis, and wondering how I would manage.
5. Welcoming Change
When I arrived in August 2018, I was set to start my master’s at Roskilde University. I had to quickly adapt to a new educational system and a different way of learning. From figuring out public transportation routes to adjusting to the Danish classroom environment, every day brought a new challenge. The weather was another significant change; experiencing my first winter was both exciting and daunting. I had to learn to dress in layers and deal with shorter daylight hours. Despite these adjustments, I embraced the adventure with an open mind and a positive attitude. Each change, whether big or small, became an opportunity to grow and learn in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
6. Embracing Community
Living abroad has taught me the value of community. Whether it’s the international friends I made at my university, the kind locals who helped me navigate Danish life, or the online forums and social media groups where expats share tips and support, building a community has been essential. These connections have provided not only practical help, like job leads and language practice, but also emotional support. In moments of homesickness or frustration, having people who understand my struggles has made all the difference. Engaging with others has enriched my experience and made me feel less alone in this journey.
Something to remember
Embarking on a journey to live abroad is more than just a physical move; it’s a profound transformation that challenges you in ways you never anticipated. From the excitement of discovering a new world to the trials of starting over and embracing change, my experience has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. It has pushed me to grow, adapt, and find strength in adversity, all while building a community that supports and uplifts me.
If you’re considering making a similar leap or are already navigating the complexities of living in a new country, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Whether it’s learning a new language, adjusting to different cultural norms, or simply finding your place, the journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about exploring the world.
Thank you for reading, and if you need personalized assistance or have questions about navigating life in another country, don’t hesitate to send me a message. I look forward to connecting with you as we continue this exciting journey together!