Dana was in Houston when I first got here, from there she moved to Aberdeen, and then Germany, she’s definitely one of the ‘big movers’ on my friends list and is the epitome of what being an expat is all about. Living life in new countries with her family and making the most of it while she’s there!
Where were you born? Texas, USA
Where are you currently? Hannover, Deutschland
How long have you been there? 11 months
How long do you expect to be there? 2 to 5 years – I have NO expectations about how long a posting will last!
Where else have you lived? Aberdeen, Scotland (18 months)
What you love about where you are living? I love that my children are learning another language. I love the ability to easily travel through Europe.
What is the worst thing about where you live? I hate being far away from my family (particularly my parents).
The hardest part of living where you live? It is hard to do things that would be easy in the USA because I am still learning German.
What has surprised you most about where you live? I am surprised that Germany seems more like the USA to me than Scotland did.
Your biggest lesson learned? As an expat you need to roll with the punches and know that there will be AWESOME days and TERRIBLE days.
One reason you wouldn’t have missed living there for the world? I really now understand what it’s like for folks to move somewhere that they don’t know the language. It’s tough and I have great respect for all the spouses who do it.
The best food? I love the German bread.
The best sight? In Germany? So far we’ve stayed close to home – Hannover Rathaus. In all our expat related travels – Dubai.
Your biggest fear for the future? I hope my kids get a great education despite all the moves.
Funniest incident? I can’t think of a story for here! Sorry!
What NOT to do in your location? DO NOT go out and about in Germany without a good amount of cash. Lots of places do not accept credit cards.
The person who has inspired you most where you live and why? I don’t have a local SSA. 🙁
Best piece of advice you could give to newbie expats? Find and connect with your local SSA as soon as you can. They can be an invaluable resource.
Anything else you want to add? Enjoy the expat experience!
Read previous interviews, here:
#1 Sarah, from Ireland, now in Houston
#2 Melanie, from England, now in Houston
#3 Corinne, from France, now in Switzerland
#4 Frances, from England, now back in England
#5 Alison, from Ireland, now in Houston
#6 Mary Ann, from Australia, now in Houston
#7 Jennifer, from USA, now in Stavanger
#8 Mimi, from France, now in Houston