If you decide to stay 'in' this holiday, play tourist in your own town. Visit a café, park, or landmark you’ve never been to before. Rediscovering your surroundings can reignite your sense of wonder and adventure.

​And if you decide to go spend time in your country of origin - take it as an opportunity to be a tourist there too. You might know the place, but you are not exactly the same person as when you lived there. See it with fresh eyes, and enjoy what this place has to offer.

Create a journal specifically for your expat life - and make a habit out of it. This time of the year is perfect for acquiring new habits. Write about the wins, big or small. Whether it’s navigating a new language or finding your favorite bakery, celebrating these moments fosters positivity. 

✨ Because we are big fans of gratitude journals, and stationery in general, we created some beautiful ones available on Amazon. You can find some versions for women, seasonal editions, a version for men, and even some for your kids! 

Compile photos of your favorite moments abroad. Whether digital or printed, having a collection of happy memories to flip through can remind you how far you’ve come. And let's face it, we rarely take time to stop and look at all those pictures we took the past months. So now is a great time to do it ;)

What have you learned since moving abroad? Maybe you’ve picked up a new skill, made international friends, or discovered how resourceful you are. Recognizing your growth can turn homesickness into pride.

Dive into the holiday customs of your host country. Whether it’s attending a local Christmas market, trying a festive dish, or learning a traditional dance, embracing new traditions can enrich your experience.

Feeling isolated? Take the initiative and invite friends, colleagues, or neighbors for coffee, drinks, or a holiday gathering. Building community can transform loneliness into connection. Fun idea - why not invite your friends, family or loved ones to visit you abroad this time of year? Even if not for Christmas itself, they could join in the next few weeks and the excitement of knowing they will be with you soon - will make a huge difference. ​

When abroad - you are doing a lot! and sometimes, those things come unnoticed. Maybe you successfully navigated a cultural difference or tried something new. Celebrating these achievements—no matter how small—reminds you of your resilience and adaptability. And if you went back to your country of origin for the holidays - celebrate that too! As we know, first hand, those visits are an experience on its own ;)

Homesickness often feels heavier when you’re stressed. Take a day for yourself—read a book, take a long bath, or binge-watch your favorite holiday movies. Recharge and reflect on how amazing it is that you’re carving out a life abroad.

Spreading kindness lifts both you and those around you. Volunteer locally, give thoughtful gifts, or simply smile at a stranger. Bringing light to others can fill your heart with holiday cheer.

Your life abroad is a unique adventure, filled with opportunities to grow and create meaningful memories. While homesickness during the holidays is natural, it doesn’t have to define your experience. By shifting your focus to gratitude and embracing where you are, you can transform the holiday blues into a season of joy, connection, and reflection.

Happy holidays, wherever you are in the world! ❤️