What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Mal Pais. They wrote...

"Expats often find adjusting to a new culture, unfamiliar languages, and different ways of doing things to be among the most challenging aspects of relocating or traveling abroad. Furthermore, navigating complex visa and immigration requirements can present a challenge, as can finding the right medical, housing, and financial services in a new country. Additionally, maintaining relationships with family and friends back home, as well as making new friendships, can be a challenge, as can finding the right job or setting up a new business. Furthermore, everyday living expenses and a new way of life can also present challenges," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Mal Pais, Costa Rica.

"Honestly the most challenging aspect of the new culture is having to still deal with the US on some level. Using Skype to make US phone calls is extremely challenging. I needed my laptop repaired, the taxi took me to the repair shop but the "guy" who does the repair was not there. The taxi driver made a phone call and found another guy who repairs computers. After driving up a narrow dirt road and missing the turn we finally arrived at a private home. A young man approached the car and told me in English " sure i can fix" uh okay I replied. We drove away and I had an uneasy feeling that I just handed over my laptop to a stranger. Several days later and a few desperate emails I got my laptop back in good working order. Everyone I asked about the repair man's good standing was answered with " of yeah I know him, hes a good guy." Another challenge at first was finding certain products in the local grocery store. We have adapted to buying more local products, but one time I asked the store if they had decaf coffee? They promised to order some for me. Everyday or so I would ask "did you get the decaf? The response was "maybe tomorrow" in Spanish of course. I finally gave up asking," commented one expat who made the move to Mal Pais, Costa Rica.

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