I'm still amazed by people who think moving to another country is like moving to the next city. I still think back to a reality TV show of Americans moving abroad. One episode featured a couple moving to Portugal. As they were looking at places to live, they were very upset that living in the center of the city was so expensive, the rooms were small, and horrors, there weren't boxspring beds. The worst was that they expected everyone to fall over themselves to help the Americans.

I just can't.

Here are some things to consider before you plan a move abroad, and definitely to consider before you actually move.

1. Living somewhere is NOT like visiting

Going somewhere to enjoy a vacation is a world away from actually living there. In a hotel or vacation apartment, you enjoy the services of the establishment rather than having to navigate stores etc. You also don't have much more paperwork than filling out a form and paying.

And those little quirks (or weather) that you thought were cute on your trip may turn out to be major annoyances when you live there.

Finally, you may find the people living there may not be as friendly as the hotel staff, which you are paying to serve you.

2. No, you cannot just move somewhere without planning (or a permit)

Unless you are a citizen of a country, you can't just move there without a residence/work permit. Many countries provide a 90-day tourist visa, but that means you are a tourist. You won't be able to rent an apartment, open a bank account, or the like.

This is the most important thing to plan. Do your research on which countries require which information and forms (e.g. proof of a local work contract, proof of local health insurance, etc.). You want to start this research well in advance of any planned move.

3. Demanding something will get you nowhere

Even if you think you have a right to go and do what you want, that won't help you in another country, and that will probably hinder your experience. Be friendly, learn the local customs and the local language and you will have a much better time there.

I've now lived abroad for 26 years (in Germany and Austria) and I've loved the experience!

But it was not always paradise.

For more on me and my writing, check out my website!