Feeling Out of Place Abroad? 5 Tips to Settle In and Feel at Home

Adjusting to a new country isn’t always easy — even small changes can feel overwhelming! But a few simple steps can help you feel grounded, connected, and at home in your new environment. Here are 5 strategies that have helped both me and my clients:

1. Unpack and Start Creating Your New Home
Even if your stay is temporary, arranging your space gives a sense of control and familiarity. Knowing where everything is and how that laundry machine works can calm your mind and make new environment feel like home.

2. Bring Familiar Comforts into Your New Life
Change can feel exciting, but also disorienting. Not everything has to feel unfamiliar — you can carry small pieces of “home” with you.
For me, that means rewatching (and sometimes sharing) the movies I love, or making crêpes from my mom’s recipe.
These small rituals create a sense of emotional continuity and can make a big difference in feeling settled.

3. Create a Personal Corner Just for You
Your living space might be far from ideal, but carving out a small “safe spot” for relaxation is still worth it. For me, it’s a little nook with pillows and houseplants — my go-to space when I need to recharge.
What would You include in your cozy corner?

4. Find Places You Resonate With
A coffee shop with freshly brewed coffee, a park bench, or a lively waterfront (hello, Halifax!)… Seek out places you genuinely enjoy and visit them often. This way, they become your anchor points — familiar “islands” in a sea of newness.
Personally, I love browsing local bookstores. It’s a great way to discover new reads and get a glimpse of what locals are into.

5. Join Communities or Groups That Match Your Interests…
…even if you usually prefer your own company! This helps you get a feel of the local culture and meet people without pressure. It might also give you a sneak peek into they way locals communicate: like kisses on the cheek in Spain, the type of small talk people engage in and other cultural aspects.



🌱 Start Where It Feels Easiest
Pick the step that feels most doable for you, and remember: adaptation takes time! Be gentle with yourself if things don’t click right away.

💭 What’s helped you feel more at home in a new country or city?