Living a Healthy Expat Life

Living the expat life may be an exciting adventure for some, even if they have been in the country for a number of years. When expats arrive to their guest countries, everything looks and feels different, and there's usually something new to be experienced for expats who are already settled down abroad.

In both cases, health issues are not uncommon. Anything from a simple cold to the anxiety of living far from family and long-term friends can happen whether you live in Singapore or in Moscow. Preparation is essential to avoid any issues. However, and despite the best preparation, health issues can definitely occur.

Here are some hints and tips to help expats make the most of their experience abroad.

Keep a positive attitude
Going away to a new country and far from your loved ones may be daunting. It is important not to dwell on the negative aspects, and highlight the positives.

Get the basics right

In our home countries, we tend to take for granted the very basics, and we know which situations to avoid. Research the country and the area where you are going to live to find out about housing, transportation, supermarkets, business hours, food prices, etc. This may not be directly related to health matters, but it will add to your peace of mind knowing your way around.

Take health precautions

Health and medical issues might not be a problem in your home country. But, going abroad comes with certain risks. Keeping your common sense is important, especially if you're going to countries which you're unfamiliar with. Some examples are:

• Get your routine vaccinations updated;
• Visit your doctor around eight weeks in advance before travelling to check the preventive measures that you need to take;
• Use sun cream and insect repellent if necessary;
• Avoid eating raw or re-heated food;
• Avoid drinking water that has not been boiled or sanitised;
• Make sure that you eat and sleep well.
  

Always travel safe

Leading a healthy lifestyle will help expats in different ways. However, all the health precautions will not prevent you from getting sick during your expat assignment. Accidents can also happen and it would only add to your peace of mind knowing that you can receive adequate treatment promptly or being evacuated if necessary. So, consider taking an international health insurance policy.

On the other hand, even the most basic treatment can be difficult to arrange abroad and can also be very expensive. Make sure that you're covered for your entire stay and before travelling to avoid any complications.

Keep in touch, but make new friends abroad

It is important to keep in regular contact with your family and friends back at home to help you avoid that loneliness feeling. Making new friends is also key to adapt to your new country. Both locals and other expats can help you learn about your new country or the new language and it will help you reduce stress.

Keep a list of contacts

It will help you find the right support when things become tough. Embassy contact information and business hours, address and phone number of a doctor and hospital, your health insurance contacts, trusted friends in your guest country, etc.


Got another tip? Please feel free to share it with us!

Thanks for reading this post.
The Medibroker Team


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