What Christmas Movies Teach Us About Life Abroad

Ah, Christmas movies! Those feel-good flicks we binge every December with a hot chocolate in hand and a cozy blanket wrapped tight. From classic tales of finding love in the snow to modern adventures with unexpected twists, these holiday gems do more than entertain us, they subtly teach us life lessons. And guess what? Those lessons are surprisingly relevant to anyone navigating life abroad.

Photo by Gülşah Aydoğan

Let’s dive into the world of Christmas movies and uncover the nuggets of wisdom they offer for expats and adventurers like you.

1. Home Alone: Independence and Problem-Solving

Kevin McCallister being left behind at Christmas might sound like a nightmare, but he turns it into a wild adventure. He faces challenges head-on (albeit with booby traps and paint cans).

Lesson for Expats: Living abroad often feels like being "left home alone." You’re in a new place, dealing with unexpected issues, like figuring out foreign appliances or handling cultural misunderstandings. The key? Embrace independence. Trust yourself to problem-solve, even if it means learning through trial and error.

💡 Pro Tip: Start small! Successfully navigating public transport or ordering food in a new language can feel just as triumphant as outwitting two burglars.

2. The Holiday: Embrace Change and Take Risks

Two women, burned out by their routines, swap homes (and continents!) for the holidays. While their new surroundings seem intimidating at first, both find joy, love, and fresh perspectives by stepping outside their comfort zones.

Lesson for Expats: The magic of life abroad lies in embracing change. Yes, moving to a new country can feel daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to rewrite your story. That leap of faith can lead to unexpected friendships, love, or even a new sense of purpose.

💡 Pro Tip: Say yes to things that scare you a little, whether it’s trying a strange dish or attending a local festival. Growth often begins at the edge of discomfort.

3. Elf: Stay True to Yourself While Adapting

Buddy the Elf is the ultimate fish-out-of-water. Despite his sugary enthusiasm clashing with New York City's cynicism, he doesn’t compromise his quirky, joyful personality. And in doing so, he wins everyone over.

Lesson for Expats: Moving abroad doesn’t mean leaving your identity behind. While adapting to a new culture is essential, staying true to who you are is equally important. Your unique perspective can enrich your new community and help you find your tribe.

💡 Pro Tip: Blend in by learning cultural norms but stand out by sharing your own traditions. Hosting a dinner party with food from your home country can be a hit!

4. Love Actually: Relationships Are Everything

This holiday classic reminds us that love, in all its forms, is what matters most. Whether it’s romantic love, family connections, or friendships, the movie celebrates the messiness and beauty of human relationships.

Lesson for Expats: When you live abroad, relationships become your anchor. It’s easy to feel isolated, especially during the holidays, but building connections with locals and other expats can create a supportive network that feels like home.

💡 Pro Tip: Prioritize quality time with loved ones, even if it’s virtual. And don’t be afraid to reach out to others; they might be just as eager to connect as you are.

5. A Christmas Carol: Reflect and Grow

Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from grumpy miser to warm-hearted giver is all about reflection. He examines his past, present, and future to realize what truly matters.

Lesson for Expats: Living abroad gives you the perfect chance to reflect on your journey. What brought you here? What lessons have you learned? Use those insights to grow, adapt, and embrace your experience with gratitude.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a journal to document your thoughts and milestones abroad. When the going gets tough, reading your own words can remind you how far you’ve come.

6. The Polar Express: Believe in the Magic

The Polar Express is a tale about belief, both in Santa and in the magic of the journey itself. The characters learn that a little faith can open doors to wonder and joy.

Lesson for Expats: When life abroad feels overwhelming, remember why you started this adventure. Believe in the magic of discovering new cultures, making memories, and growing as a person.

💡 Pro Tip: Take time to explore your surroundings like a curious child. A walk in a new neighborhood or a spontaneous trip to a local market can reignite that sense of wonder.

7. Die Hard: Adaptability in Chaos

Okay, so Die Hard isn’t your typical Christmas movie, but hear me out! John McClane faces danger at every turn, yet he adapts, thinks on his feet, and never gives up.

Lesson for Expats: Life abroad can throw unexpected challenges your way, a missed flight, a language barrier, or cultural faux pas. The key is staying flexible and keeping your cool.

💡 Pro Tip: Build a “survival kit” for your new life: essential local phrases, emergency contacts, and a go-to comfort food from home. You’ll feel ready for anything!

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Community Heals

The Grinch tries to ruin Christmas for Whoville, but the community’s love and togetherness melt his heart and show him the true meaning of the season.

Lesson for Expats: Building or finding your community abroad can transform your experience. A strong support system can turn even the loneliest moments into opportunities for connection and joy.

💡 Pro Tip: Join expat groups, attend local meetups, or volunteer in your new city. The more you give, the more you’ll feel like part of the community.

9. Miracle on 34th Street: Believe in the Impossible

This heartwarming tale is about believing in Santa Claus, and by extension, the impossible. It reminds us to keep our faith in the good, even when the odds seem stacked against us.

Lesson for Expats: The journey of life abroad often feels impossible at first, from navigating bureaucracy to finding your footing in a new culture. But by believing in yourself and the process, you’ll achieve more than you ever thought possible.

💡 Pro Tip: Celebrate small victories, whether it’s mastering a local custom or surviving a trip to the grocery store without a translation app.

10. Christmas Under The Northern Lights (Or basically all of Hallmark Movies): Finding Joy in the Familiar

Ah, Hallmark Christmas movies, the ultimate holiday guilty pleasure. Let’s be honest: they all follow a similar formula. Small-town baker meets big-city executive, sparks fly, misunderstandings happen, and everything gets resolved under the glow of fairy lights. And yet… we keep watching them. Why? Because there’s comfort in the predictable and joy in the little things.

Lesson for Expats: Life abroad can feel like a whirlwind of change, but leaning into simple joys and familiar routines can bring stability and happiness. It’s okay to create your “Hallmark moments” in everyday life, whether it’s decorating your space with string lights, enjoying a cozy café, or indulging in a predictable-yet-satisfying routine.

💡 Pro Tip: Seek out small joys that ground you, like a weekly coffee date with yourself or a favorite local snack. These rituals become anchors in the sea of newness.

Wrapping Up

Christmas movies are more than holiday entertainment; they’re little treasure troves of wisdom for expats and adventurers alike. Whether it’s embracing change like in The Holiday, staying true to yourself like Buddy in Elf, or finding joy in unexpected places like Kevin in Home Alone, these lessons remind us that life abroad is an adventure worth savoring.

So this holiday season, grab a blanket, hit play on your favorite festive flick, and let the lessons unfold. Who knows? The next time you’re navigating the twists and turns of expat life, you might just channel your inner Christmas movie hero.

Happy holidays and happy adventuring!