|
Non Active Member
|
Settling into your new environment....
We all know how hard it is to move to a different country.
Even though some companies help us with the general problems like finding a nice house, settling the kids in an appropriate school, getting a car to get around, the success of an expat adaptation depends on your own personal effort as well.
Sooner or later it comes to the point where either getting used to your new country or feeling misplaced is entirely up to you.
To help in overcoming the "cultural clash" or the feeling of "missing old friends", there is nothing better than getting engaged in something, whether that be work or local amenities.
By far the most common complaint I hear from new residents is the need to find an activity to keep one occupied, albeit moreso during the winter months, but even a permanent holiday ethos can become mundane.
Winter is an ideal opportunity for you to learn Turkish:
Maybe a personal teacher that teaches you at home is a quite comfortable manner of learning Turkish, but there is also a much more challenging and entertaining way of doing it by attending a course.
Sitting in a class with other students is a great way of making new acquaintances and finding a social life.
Another great way of perfecting your Turkish is to communicate with your Turkish neighbours!
Use the online resources at this forum and you will soon feel confident to host your own Turkish tea party - may not sound as exciting as the normal wine and cheese event you might host at home however, you will be suprised just how appreciative your Turkish neighbours will be and in no time at all you will be accepted in their community.
If you are unsure how to prepare Turkish tea, the correct way to serve, and or any do not does, you can also ask a Turkish neighbour to educate you. Might sound silly now, but there are correct procedures and protocols to be adhered to if you aim to impress.
Even if they don't speak English, you can be sure they will make a huge and honest effort to understand what you mean.
Consider the idea of dropping nice "key words" in Turkish for a better communication and employing mimics tactics will help get the message over.
If you look pathetic, don't worry, comedy is the best way to break the ice!
Go to a gym: Is there anything better than getting fit and making friends at the same time?
Attending a gymnasium will make you a lot more confident in many aspects. Besides looking great, you will get used to listening to Turkish (and then will easily overcome the very common "panic-of-not-understanding" syndrome) and, again, you will make new acquaintances.
When you dine at a restuarant, explain to the waiter that you want to practise your Turkish and ask him/her to refrain from using English (unless in an emergency!) - you will be suprised just how quick you will pick up the essentials.
I strongly advise every newcomer who resides here to make some effort. The dividends will pay off in the end as your circle of friends increase and your confidence will improve when dealing with service providers and tradesmen.
Merv!
Last edited by merlin : 9th September 2005 at 12:24.
|
.gif){kind=avatar}
Re: Settling into your new environment.... 
Linear Mode
